5-8-01 Board Meeting

EVERETT PUBLIC SCHOOLS
EVERETT, WASHINGTON Regular Meeting

The Board of Directors of Everett Public Schools, Snohomish County, Washington, held a regular Board meeting on Tuesday, January 11, 2005, beginning at 4:30 p.m., in the Board Room of the Educational Service Center, 4730 Colby Avenue, Everett, Washington. Those in attendance were Sue Cooper, Kristie Dutton, Karen Madsen, Paul Roberts and Roy Yates.


ADOPTION OF AGENDA
President Yates called for any recommended changes to the agenda. Superintendent Carol Whitehead noted that the Board would be presented with a revised personnel report and an addendum to the Consent Agenda entitled, “ School Administrative Salary Schedule 2005-2006.” With that, Kristie Dutton moved for adoption of the revised agenda. Paul Roberts seconded the motion and the motion carried unanimously.
ADOPTION OF AGENDA
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Karen Madsen moved for approval of the minutes of the regular meeting of December 14, 2004. Sue Cooper seconded the motion and the motion carried unanimously.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
SUPERINTENDENT’S COMMENTS
Dr. Whitehead announced that, once again, Everett’s students are demonstrating their generosity and caring by organizing efforts to support victims of the tsunami. Among their activities are coin and blanket drives.

Dr. Whitehead referenced the article she recently provided to the Board from the January 6 edition of the Seattle Post-Intelligencer in which it is stated that the average per pupil expenditure in the nation is $7734. In Washington state, however, that figure is $6779. A similar article in Education Week ranks Washington as 42^nd in the nation in per pupil expenditure. A copy of the Education Week article will be provided to the Board.

Dr. Whitehead announced that Boeing will be holding a roll-out celebration for its 777 airplane on February 15 at 2 p.m. at the Everett Boeing plant. It is anticipated that the event will draw national news coverage. The Evergreen Middle School choirs have been invited to perform at the celebration. If Board members would like to attend, they need to notify Dr. Whitehead as soon as possible so that security clearances can be completed.
SUPT’S COMMENTS
Next, Dr. Whitehead discussed the inclement weather this week. Unfortunately, the multi-district media notification system malfunctioned and not all radio/TV stations received late-start and other information correctly or timely. Beginning as early as 2 a.m., Everett administrators Terrie DeBolt, Sue Cheffer and Gary Jefferis personally drive Everett’s routes to assess road conditions, with Jeff Riddle participating in the final decision. Careful consideration goes into making the decision and includes the determinations made by neighboring districts. Once a decision has been made, District phone trees are activated, information is placed on the District website and hotline, and TV and radio stations are notified. Informing the high schools immediately is a high priority because some students are on their way to school as early as 5:30 or 6 a.m. Buses run “sweeps” to ensure there are no students waiting at bus stops. The Board expressed their appreciation for the efforts of District administration.

Next, Dr. Whitehead announced that five 2004 graduates from Jackson High School have earned the title of AP (Advanced Placement) Scholar by the College Board in recognition of their exceptional achievement on the college-level AP exams. Adam Argo and Margot Wielgus qualified for the AP Scholar-with-Honor award by earning an average grade of at least 3.25 on all AP exams taken, and grades of 3 or higher on four or more of these exams. Grace Bhak, Christofer Helgerson and Dennis Tang qualified for the AP Scholar award by completing three or more AP exams with grades of 3 or higher.

In closing, Dr. Whitehead announced that January is School Board Appreciation Month. She said she is grateful for the opportunity to work with this Board, both individually and as a group. They continually have the best interests of the children at heart, and their leadership and vision, combined with the exceptional individuals on-staff in the District, make it possible to carry out that vision. She thanked the Board for their hard work and continuing support. She then presented them with certificates of appreciation. The Board expressed their thanks.

SUPT’S COMMENTS
(cont’d.)
PUBLIC COMMENT
None.

RECOGNITION OF RETIREES
Director of Communications Gay Campbell reported that one retiree was present tonight. She is Ilene Johnson, who has worked in the District for 26 years, most recently as a custodian at Emerson Elementary School. Director of Maintenance Gary Jefferis commented that Ilene is a leader of the custodians. She always has a good attitude, continually seeks additional assignments and is quick to help others. Gary also acknowledged the presence of Ilene’s husband, Vern, who retired from the District a few years ago. He, too, was a quiet leader who was highly respected. When asked about future plans, Ilene said she and Vern will be doing some traveling. On behalf of the Board, President Yates congratulated Ilene and thanked her for her many years of hard work. He then presented her with a crystal memento apple.
PUBLIC COMMENT

RECOGNITION OF RETIREES
ITEMS FOR INFORMATION
Associate Superintendent for Finance and Operations Jeff Riddle introduced tonight’s presentation about the UnitedStreaming Online Video Library service which makes available to teachers a collection of over 2,600 (and growing) educational videos that can be downloaded off-hours and then played on a classroom computer as part of a teacher’s instructional plan. Instructional Technology Specialist Phil Biggs served as the presenter. He said this innovative service offers a different way to distribute instructional media and eliminates use of the reservation and shipping process that has been in place in the District for many years. It has some exciting instructional implications as well as increased efficiency and effectiveness. Three schools—Lowell Elementary School, Evergreen Middle School and Jackson High School—were a part of the pilot. Each participating teacher completed a 90-minute training session. A follow-up session was also offered three weeks later.

PRESENTATION—UNITEDSTREAM-ING ONLINE VIDEO LIBRARY SERVICE
UnitedStreaming Online Video Library Service is owned by the group that owns the Discovery Channel. They are working to acquire other media which would make available even more educational opportunities. Features of the service are that teachers do not need to show the entire video—they are indexed so that only pertinent portions can be displayed. Short video clips allow interactivity and can be included in a PowerPoint presentation and then “ burned” onto a CD to be used again (copyrights permit this). All videos are correlated to District standards and play lists are available for quick search and retrieval. Unlimited “copies” can be made. Peer reviews of this system show that test scores increase.
The technology bond makes it possible to purchase four years of the service for the entire district at a fairly economical cost of approximately $1,100 per school per year. That is roughly the cost of freight for the District’s existing instructional media program. The response from the pilot schools has been so positive, the possibilities are so extensive and the costs are so reasonable that the District wants to provide the service to all schools.

PRESENTATION—UNITEDSTREAM-ING ONLINE VIDEO LIBRARY SERVICE (cont’d.)
In terms of training, a plan has been developed for February, March and April of 2005. School-based training will begin February 1 and will be completed in three rotations of after-school workshops of 1 ½ hours each. The first two rotations will involve basic instruction, while the third is a follow-up session for which clock hours are offered. Participation is voluntary.

When asked whether a class can customize a video, Phil said the District will have its own server that houses content and could purchase digital rights to the tape. When asked whether teachers can post lessons containing video clips on their website for students to access at home, Phil said the lessons can be put on CDs. There is also a quiz section of the lesson which would have pieces of the video.

Board member Cooper reported that there was a great deal of excitement at the recent Technology Conference in Denver—UnitedStreaming was a frequent topic.

President Yates said this program is interesting and exciting. He requested a follow-up report that includes anecdotal information. Dr. Whitehead said that can be arranged for later this spring.

Financial Reports as of November 30, 2004, were provided for the Board of Directors’ review (E:69/05). The reports include year-to-date information on revenues and expenditures, General Fund projections, a cash report and an investment summary. Jeff Riddle said the report shows that the District, as expected, is spending down its fund balance by approximately $1.5 million. There will probably be a deficit for the year, but the District is in much better shape than was thought it would be two years ago. The greatest impact is in the area of increased salaries and benefits (as expected) as well as increased contributions to health and welfare (which are somewhat offset by funding from the state). FINANCIAL REPORTS
ACTION ITEMS
Paul Roberts moved for approval of the revised Consent Agenda and Kristie Dutton seconded the motion.

CONSENT AGENDA

Personnel Report (revised) (E:70/05);
Voucher Lists (E:71/05);
Proposed Revised Policy 6151—Site-Based Decision Making (revising policy title and definition) (E:72/05);
Declaration of Surplus Property (E:73/05);
Agreement Between Everett Public Schools and Everett Community College for College in the High School (E:74/05);
Monetary Gift of $5,600 from Penny Creek Elementary School PTA to Penny Creek Elementary School for Purchase of Projection Systems (E:75/05);
Monetary Gift of $8,000 from Everett Foursquare Church New Life Center to Hawthorne Elementary School for Educational Activities & the Purchase of Goods/Supplies (E:76/05);
ADDENDUM—School Administrative Salary Schedule 2005-2006 (E:77/05);

The motion carried unanimously.



BOARD COMMENTS
Board member Roberts reported that he is looking forward to attending the upcoming Federal Relations Network Conference. He requested information about the District,
specifically about special education, and compliance with NCLB (No Child Left Behind)—Dr. Whitehead will gather it. Mr. Roberts also asked whether there are other issues on which he should focus.

Board member Roberts said he has been approached by some individuals in the community about access to District baseball facilities and fields. Mr. Roberts has directed the individuals to contact District staff, including Karst.

Dr. Whitehead noted that the annual state-of-the-school reviews (SOSR) will begin on Friday. The Board discussed which of the Board members will be able to attend particular SOSRs. When asked her opinion about ensuring that a Board member is present at each SOSR, Dr. Whitehead responded that it is not necessary nor do the principals expect it. However, it is good for the Board to attend a variety of the SOSRs so they can get a flavor of the differences from school to school.

President Yates reminded his Board colleagues of two upcoming Board site visits at Cedar Wood and Hawthorne Elementary Schools.
BOARD COMMENTS

President Yates adjourned the regular meeting at 5:30 p.m.
___________________________ ________________________________ Carol Whitehead, Secretary Roy Yates, President

The Board of Directors of Everett Public Schools, Snohomish County, Washington, held a regular Board meeting on Tuesday, January 11, 2005, beginning at 4:30 p.m., in the Board Room of the Educational Service Center, 4730 Colby Avenue, Everett, Washington. Those in attendance were Sue Cooper, Kristie Dutton, Karen Madsen, Paul Roberts and Roy Yates.
ADOPTION OF AGENDA President Yates called for any recommended changes to the agenda. Superintendent Carol Whitehead noted that the Board would be presented with a revised personnel report and an addendum to the Consent Agenda entitled, “ School Administrative Salary Schedule 2005-2006.” With that, Kristie Dutton moved for adoption of the revised agenda. Paul Roberts seconded the motion and the motion carried unanimously.		ADOPTION OF AGENDA
APPROVAL OF MINUTES Karen Madsen moved for approval of the minutes of the regular meeting of December 14, 2004. Sue Cooper seconded the motion and the motion carried unanimously.		APPROVAL OF MINUTES
SUPERINTENDENT’S COMMENTS Dr. Whitehead announced that, once again, Everett’s students are demonstrating their generosity and caring by organizing efforts to support victims of the tsunami. Among their activities are coin and blanket drives. Dr. Whitehead referenced the article she recently provided to the Board from the January 6 edition of the Seattle Post-Intelligencer in which it is stated that the average per pupil expenditure in the nation is $7734. In Washington state, however, that figure is $6779. A similar article in Education Week ranks Washington as 42^nd in the nation in per pupil expenditure. A copy of the Education Week article will be provided to the Board. Dr. Whitehead announced that Boeing will be holding a roll-out celebration for its 777 airplane on February 15 at 2 p.m. at the Everett Boeing plant. It is anticipated that the event will draw national news coverage. The Evergreen Middle School choirs have been invited to perform at the celebration. If Board members would like to attend, they need to notify Dr. Whitehead as soon as possible so that security clearances can be completed.		SUPT’S COMMENTS
Next, Dr. Whitehead discussed the inclement weather this week. Unfortunately, the multi-district media notification system malfunctioned and not all radio/TV stations received late-start and other information correctly or timely. Beginning as early as 2 a.m., Everett administrators Terrie DeBolt, Sue Cheffer and Gary Jefferis personally drive Everett’s routes to assess road conditions, with Jeff Riddle participating in the final decision. Careful consideration goes into making the decision and includes the determinations made by neighboring districts. Once a decision has been made, District phone trees are activated, information is placed on the District website and hotline, and TV and radio stations are notified. Informing the high schools immediately is a high priority because some students are on their way to school as early as 5:30 or 6 a.m. Buses run “sweeps” to ensure there are no students waiting at bus stops. The Board expressed their appreciation for the efforts of District administration. Next, Dr. Whitehead announced that five 2004 graduates from Jackson High School have earned the title of AP (Advanced Placement) Scholar by the College Board in recognition of their exceptional achievement on the college-level AP exams. Adam Argo and Margot Wielgus qualified for the AP Scholar-with-Honor award by earning an average grade of at least 3.25 on all AP exams taken, and grades of 3 or higher on four or more of these exams. Grace Bhak, Christofer Helgerson and Dennis Tang qualified for the AP Scholar award by completing three or more AP exams with grades of 3 or higher. In closing, Dr. Whitehead announced that January is School Board Appreciation Month. She said she is grateful for the opportunity to work with this Board, both individually and as a group. They continually have the best interests of the children at heart, and their leadership and vision, combined with the exceptional individuals on-staff in the District, make it possible to carry out that vision. She thanked the Board for their hard work and continuing support. She then presented them with certificates of appreciation. The Board expressed their thanks.		SUPT’S COMMENTS (cont’d.)
PUBLIC COMMENT None. RECOGNITION OF RETIREES Director of Communications Gay Campbell reported that one retiree was present tonight. She is Ilene Johnson, who has worked in the District for 26 years, most recently as a custodian at Emerson Elementary School. Director of Maintenance Gary Jefferis commented that Ilene is a leader of the custodians. She always has a good attitude, continually seeks additional assignments and is quick to help others. Gary also acknowledged the presence of Ilene’s husband, Vern, who retired from the District a few years ago. He, too, was a quiet leader who was highly respected. When asked about future plans, Ilene said she and Vern will be doing some traveling. On behalf of the Board, President Yates congratulated Ilene and thanked her for her many years of hard work. He then presented her with a crystal memento apple.		PUBLIC COMMENT RECOGNITION OF RETIREES
ITEMS FOR INFORMATION Associate Superintendent for Finance and Operations Jeff Riddle introduced tonight’s presentation about the UnitedStreaming Online Video Library service which makes available to teachers a collection of over 2,600 (and growing) educational videos that can be downloaded off-hours and then played on a classroom computer as part of a teacher’s instructional plan. Instructional Technology Specialist Phil Biggs served as the presenter. He said this innovative service offers a different way to distribute instructional media and eliminates use of the reservation and shipping process that has been in place in the District for many years. It has some exciting instructional implications as well as increased efficiency and effectiveness. Three schools—Lowell Elementary School, Evergreen Middle School and Jackson High School—were a part of the pilot. Each participating teacher completed a 90-minute training session. A follow-up session was also offered three weeks later.		PRESENTATION—UNITEDSTREAM-ING ONLINE VIDEO LIBRARY SERVICE
UnitedStreaming Online Video Library Service is owned by the group that owns the Discovery Channel. They are working to acquire other media which would make available even more educational opportunities. Features of the service are that teachers do not need to show the entire video—they are indexed so that only pertinent portions can be displayed. Short video clips allow interactivity and can be included in a PowerPoint presentation and then “ burned” onto a CD to be used again (copyrights permit this). All videos are correlated to District standards and play lists are available for quick search and retrieval. Unlimited “copies” can be made. Peer reviews of this system show that test scores increase. The technology bond makes it possible to purchase four years of the service for the entire district at a fairly economical cost of approximately $1,100 per school per year. That is roughly the cost of freight for the District’s existing instructional media program. The response from the pilot schools has been so positive, the possibilities are so extensive and the costs are so reasonable that the District wants to provide the service to all schools.		PRESENTATION—UNITEDSTREAM-ING ONLINE VIDEO LIBRARY SERVICE (cont’d.)
In terms of training, a plan has been developed for February, March and April of 2005. School-based training will begin February 1 and will be completed in three rotations of after-school workshops of 1 ½ hours each. The first two rotations will involve basic instruction, while the third is a follow-up session for which clock hours are offered. Participation is voluntary. When asked whether a class can customize a video, Phil said the District will have its own server that houses content and could purchase digital rights to the tape. When asked whether teachers can post lessons containing video clips on their website for students to access at home, Phil said the lessons can be put on CDs. There is also a quiz section of the lesson which would have pieces of the video. Board member Cooper reported that there was a great deal of excitement at the recent Technology Conference in Denver—UnitedStreaming was a frequent topic. President Yates said this program is interesting and exciting. He requested a follow-up report that includes anecdotal information. Dr. Whitehead said that can be arranged for later this spring.
Financial Reports as of November 30, 2004, were provided for the Board of Directors’ review (E:69/05). The reports include year-to-date information on revenues and expenditures, General Fund projections, a cash report and an investment summary. Jeff Riddle said the report shows that the District, as expected, is spending down its fund balance by approximately $1.5 million. There will probably be a deficit for the year, but the District is in much better shape than was thought it would be two years ago. The greatest impact is in the area of increased salaries and benefits (as expected) as well as increased contributions to health and welfare (which are somewhat offset by funding from the state).		FINANCIAL REPORTS
ACTION ITEMS Paul Roberts moved for approval of the revised Consent Agenda and Kristie Dutton seconded the motion.		CONSENT AGENDA
Personnel Report (revised) (E:70/05); Voucher Lists (E:71/05); Proposed Revised Policy 6151—Site-Based Decision Making (revising policy title and definition) (E:72/05); Declaration of Surplus Property (E:73/05); Agreement Between Everett Public Schools and Everett Community College for College in the High School (E:74/05); Monetary Gift of $5,600 from Penny Creek Elementary School PTA to Penny Creek Elementary School for Purchase of Projection Systems (E:75/05); Monetary Gift of $8,000 from Everett Foursquare Church New Life Center to Hawthorne Elementary School for Educational Activities & the Purchase of Goods/Supplies (E:76/05); ADDENDUM—School Administrative Salary Schedule 2005-2006 (E:77/05); The motion carried unanimously.
BOARD COMMENTS Board member Roberts reported that he is looking forward to attending the upcoming Federal Relations Network Conference. He requested information about the District, specifically about special education, and compliance with NCLB (No Child Left Behind)—Dr. Whitehead will gather it. Mr. Roberts also asked whether there are other issues on which he should focus. Board member Roberts said he has been approached by some individuals in the community about access to District baseball facilities and fields. Mr. Roberts has directed the individuals to contact District staff, including Karst. Dr. Whitehead noted that the annual state-of-the-school reviews (SOSR) will begin on Friday. The Board discussed which of the Board members will be able to attend particular SOSRs. When asked her opinion about ensuring that a Board member is present at each SOSR, Dr. Whitehead responded that it is not necessary nor do the principals expect it. However, it is good for the Board to attend a variety of the SOSRs so they can get a flavor of the differences from school to school. President Yates reminded his Board colleagues of two upcoming Board site visits at Cedar Wood and Hawthorne Elementary Schools.		BOARD COMMENTS
President Yates adjourned the regular meeting at 5:30 p.m.
___________________________ ________________________________ Carol Whitehead, Secretary Roy Yates, President