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, September 6, 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 Kristie Dutton, Karen Madsen, Sue Cooper, Paul Roberts and Roy Yates. (Note: Board member Madsen arrived immediately following adoption of the agenda.)     

     

     

      

    ADOPTION OF AGENDA

    President Yates called for any recommended changes to the agenda. Superintendent Carol Whitehead reported that there would be a revised personnel report. With that, Paul Roberts moved for adoption of the revised agenda. Kristie Dutton seconded the motion and the motion carried unanimously.

    (Note: Board member Madsen arrived at this point in the meeting.)

    		  ADOPTION OF AGENDA
    APPROVAL OF MINUTES

    Sue Cooper moved for approval of the minutes of the regular meeting of August 23, 2005. Paul Roberts seconded the motion and the motion carried unanimously.

    		  APPROVAL OF MINUTES
    SUPERINTENDENT’S COMMENTS

    Superintendent Whitehead opened her comments by announcing that Eldon Allen will serve as interim principal at Woodside Elementary School for the 2005-2006 school year. Tonight was Woodside’s open house, so he will be introduced to the Board at a future Board meeting.

     

    Dr. Whitehead called on Associate Superintendent for Instruction Karst Brandsma to introduce the District’s newest Curriculum and Assessment Specialist, Peter Hendrickson. Peter comes from the Vancouver, Washington, area where he was an administrator. He has been an educator for almost 40 years and holds several certifications. His education and teaching experiences are numerous and include assignments in Japan and Ecuador. He has also worked with a number of colleges and universities. His interests include being a soccer referee. Peter thanked the District for inviting him to work in Everett, saying that the District has a fine reputation.

    		 SUPT’S COMMENTS
    Dr. Whitehead said everyone is working hard to be prepared for the start of school. Central staff and administrators will be in the schools helping out during the first days of school. Among the works-in-progress are remodeling projects at Eisenhower Middle and Emerson Elementary Schools. Director of Facilities and Planning Mike Gunn reported that each project is approximately one-third of the way through the construction phasing. At each site, fencing and walls are in place. Emerson’s gymnasium still contains furniture and equipment as well as temporary flooring, but that condition will soon be remedied. A great deal of surplus furniture has arisen from the Eisenhower project and is being processed. Eisenhower’s kitchen/cafeteria functions are temporarily housed in the lower area of the gym and there are low-voltage situations in certain spots. Regarding the Everett High School parking lot project, the landscaping is complete, the striping is done and looks great.

     

    Next, Dr. Whitehead commented on the recent LID (Learning Improvement Day) activities and staff meetings across the District. While attending portions of these events, she noticed a positive feeling, including celebrations surrounding District WASL scores.

     

    Dr. Whitehead called on Karst Brandsma who demonstrated the District’s new telephone communications assist line—385.4011 (E:01/06). He shared the script of the answering feature which is available to callers in five languages (Spanish, Russian, Arabic, Vietnamese and Korean). This service is designed to provide improved ways to serve the population whose home language is not English. Karst also distributed samples of letters that are being sent to parents describing the new service. Currently, the project is being piloted and is available to families at Everett High and North Middle Schools.

     

    Becky Ballbach, Counselor Support Specialist, (following a PowerPoint presentation) described an upcoming college and career fair on October 5 at Everett Events Center (attached). Called “What about Tomorrow?,” this is the first event of this nature that the District has sponsored. WorkSource Snohomish County is partnering with the District to hold the fair. During the day, two sessions will be held for a targeted group of Everett Public Schools students—it will be treated as a field trip activity and students will be bussed. An evening session will be open to all area students and families. The District hopes to partner with the Everett SilverTips hockey team, who have a game that evening, by offering discounted tickets to the game if students show proof of attendance at the fair. An array of options open to students in terms of education and employment will be on display. Resume reviews and mock interviews will take place. Mailings, website advertising and handouts are being used to promote the event. Dr. Whitehead sent invitations to all superintendents in Snohomish County. Counselors are also being invited.

     

    Lynn Evans, Executive Director for Area Two, reported that Sound Options Group, from Bainbridge Island, recently provided de-escalation training to all District School Resource Officers (SROs) and Campus Security Officers (CSOs). The training, held at Everett High School, evolved into a conversation of professionals who are well trained and saw the opportunity to talk about what they could do better.

     

    Dr. Whitehead reported that she was recently contacted by Chuck Morrison of the local Red Cross. In the wake of Hurricane Katrina, it is anticipated that Snohomish, King and Pierce Counties could see the arrival of as many as 2000 evacuees from New Orleans, Alabama and Mississippi; however, the numbers and information change hourly. The evacuees would arrive at McChord and Fort Lewis military bases and be dispersed from there. Mr. Morrison wanted to know of opportunities that Everett could make available. Dr. Whitehead said it is required by law to accommodate the evacuees, but there is no specific commitment from the Red Cross at this time. It is possible the District will be called upon to provide group living accommodations and shower facilities and District kitchens may be need to provide meals. District custodial staff will continue to be on duty. Everett anticipates additional enrollments of children who are living with their grandparents, etc. They will be welcomed. A meeting of local officials will be held tomorrow, but Dr. Whitehead will be unable to attend, so Mr. Morrison will keep her informed.

     

    Next, Dr. Whitehead reported that Newel Rice, Operations Manager in the District’s Information Systems and Technology department, recently authored an article that appeared in T.H.E. Journal Online about the District’s use of the Cognos Business Intelligence solutions to make data available about Everett’s students and perform districtwide verification of critical NCLB (No Child Left Behind) data elements (attached). When expressing his appreciation for being recognized for this honor, Newel acknowledged the efforts of Linda Holtorf (Student Systems Support Analyst), Ken Toyn (Director of Information Systems and Technology) and those in the District who use Cognos.

    		   

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    SUPT’S COMMENTS (cont’d.)

    PUBLIC COMMENT

    Vice President Dutton outlined the rules for Public Comment and then called on the following individual who had submitted a card:

    1)  Leanne Roe —parent of student at Everett High School—Speaking from a prepared text, Ms. Roe discussed her son’s placement at Everett High School vs. Dartmoor School (E:02/06).

     

    RECOGNITION OF RETIREES

    Director of Communications Gay Campbell reported that no retirees were present.

    		  PUBLIC COMMENT

     

     

     

     

     

    RECOGNITION OF RETIREES

    ITEMS FOR INFORMATION

    The Administration provided information on WASL results. Following a PowerPoint presentation, Terry Edwards, Executive Director for Curriculum Alignment and Implementation, reported that, as compared to 2004, District WASL scores have risen in all areas except 10th grade writing (E:03/06). At grades 4, 5 and 7, Everett is above the state average in every category and every grade with the exception of grade 10 in math and science, where we are slightly below the state average. New math programs are being implemented at grade 10 and high school implementation of our new science curriculum begins at grades 9 and 10. Recommendations for grades 11 and 12 will be presented to the Board next spring.

     

    Terry talked about trends in WASL performance over the last five years. Steady increases are evident. He noted that the increase in science performance is exciting in view of the fact that last year was the first year implementing the new science program. Implementation continues this year. Elementary and middle school showed good gains overall. High school reading has increased, writing is flat, and mathematics and science show slight gains.

     

    Next, Terry shared information about re-takes of the Grade 11 WASL. He said that current feedback indicates next spring’s scores will be available by June 9 rather than in August as has been true in the past. Next year’s WASL re-take schedule is already set for August.

     

    Terry then discussed changes that have been made in how AYP (adequate yearly progress) is calculated. Everett is performing well in terms of its AYP targets. At all elementary schools except one, Everett met AYP. Hawthorne Elementary School missed AYP for all students in reading and mathematics. This will be an area of focus. Middle schools met AYP in all areas. At the high school level, Cascade High School did not meet AYP for graduation rate. Everett High School did not meet AYP in special education in reading and mathematics. Sequoia did not meet AYP in mathematics for all students; however, the District is appealing. As a district, Everett did not meet AYP at grade 10 for low income students in mathematics.

    		  WASL UPDATE
    Terry then reported on SAT results. Everett Public Schools continues to perform well and tests a larger percentage of students than the state. Also, Washington is doing very well nationally on the SAT.

     

    Terry discussed the District’s upcoming annual Instructional Connections Workshops where data such as was reported tonight is used. Leadership teams from each school come together to work on their school improvement plans which they then improve over the course of the year. Peter Hendrickson and Ric Williams will present the data at the workshops so the schools know where to focus. Terry invited the Board to attend.

     

     

     

    Board member Dutton requested clarification regarding WASL re-takes for ninth graders. Terry said ninth graders who take the WASL and pass a portion need only take (next year) whatever they missed. However, they have the option of taking all pieces again. President Yates asked whether help will be available to students during the summer. Terry replied that JoAnne Fabian, Director of Instructional Support and Student Services, is in the process of developing WASL preparation classes that will be offered from late June up until it is time to take the test. Peter said the District will coordinate with the WIAA to ensure the re-take window completes before athletic turnouts. Board member Madsen sought clarification regarding changes in AYP and counting late completers. Terry said this is a reference to fifth-year seniors.

     

    Dr. Whitehead noted that there was an article about the WASL in a recent issue of The Herald . In a box at the top of the article were listed the top five schools in Snohomish County and Everett boasts two of the top five. One of the top five schools with the most improvement was also in Everett Public Schools. President Yates said it was a good piece of journalism that explained a complex issue. He complimented the authors, Eric Stevick and Melissa Slager.

     

    Karst pointed out that OSPI’s website listed “schools or districts to look at” as examples of success. Everett Public Schools was listed, as was Evergreen Middle School, both with notations of having shown “a coordinated effort.”

    		   

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    WASL UPDATE (cont’d.)

    ACTION ITEMS

    Kristie Dutton moved for approval of the revised Consent Agenda items. Sue Cooper seconded the motion.

    1)  Personnel Report (revised) (E:04/06);

    2)  Voucher Lists (E:05/06);

    3)   Proposed Revised Policy 4210—School Support Organizations (regarding employee participation) (E:06/06);

    4)   Proposed English Language Learner (ELL) Supplementary Secondary Language Arts Textbook Selection (E:07/06);

    5)  2005-2006 Bid List (E:08/06);

    6)   Declaration of Surplus Property (E:09/06);

    7)   2005-06 Title V Innovative Programs Federal Grant in the Amount of $53,213 (E:10/06);

    8)   Early Childhood Education and Assistance Program (ECEAP) Grant (E:11/06.);

    9)   Tentative Agreement Between Everett School District and Everett Licensed Nurses  Association (E:12/06); and

    10)   Tentative Agreement Between Everett School District and Everett Association of  Educational Office Personnel (EAEOP) (E:13/06).

    The motion carried unanimously.

    		  CONSENT AGENDA
    As set forth in the bylaws of the Gertrude Jackson Memorial Trust Fund, the Board of Directors shall annually appoint an advisory board for the fund. Accordingly, the Administration recommended the Board of Directors approve the attached list for appointment for 2005-2006 and reconfirm the Advisory Board Members Emeritus Evelyn Tyler and Dixie Hasselo (E:14/06). The list also includes new Board member Brian Webber to replace Ed Morrow, who resigned from the Board last spring, and moves Mr. Morrow to the Board Members Emeritus list.

     

    Trustee Larry O’Donnell, who is also a retired Everett Public Schools employee, provided a background of the Gertrude Jackson Advisory Board. This year sees a change in the composition of the board, with Brian Webber replacing Ed Morrow, who was a charter member of the fund, but was actually involved even before there was a Gertrude Jackson Memorial Trust Fund and has been the “sage” who reminds us of the intent of the fund. Larry presented a plaque to Mr. Morrow which gratefully recognized his 36 years of dedication and service to the Advisory Board and names him as Board Member Emeritus. Ed commented, saying the school Board is an integral part of helping the fund flourish and the Advisory Board appreciates their interest. He said he has loved every minute of his service; it has been a privilege and an honor.

     

    With that, Paul Roberts moved to reconfirm the Board Members Emeritus (Dixie Hasselo and Evelyn Tyler) and name Ed Morrow as Board Member Emeritus of the Gertrude Jackson Memorial Trust Fund. Sue Cooper seconded the motion and the motion carried unanimously. Then, Karen Madsen moved to appoint the Gertrude Jackson Memorial Fund Advisory Board for 2005-2006, including new appointee Brian Webber. Kristie Dutton seconded the motion and the motion carried unanimously.

     

    		  MEMBERSHIP ON GERTRUDE JACKSON ADVISORY BOARD

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    MEMBERSHIP ON GERTRUDE JACKSON ADVISORY BOARD (cont’d.)

    BOARD COMMENTS

    Board member Roberts said a benefit concert to raise money for the Red Cross and Hurricane Katrina survivors will be held Thursday night at 7 p.m. at The Flying Pig.

     

    Board member Dutton reported that she has begun an assignment at United Way and is learning a lot. Schools and other organizations like United Way will be an important part of the recovery effort from Hurricane Katrina.

    		   

    BOARD COMMENTS

    BOARD ACTION AND/OR BOARD DISCUSSION

    The Board of Directors was asked to designate September as PTA Membership Month (E:15/06). Superintendent Whitehead read aloud the proclamation. PTA members Mary Ainsworth and Karen Madsen commented about the many and positive activities of the PTA. With that, Karen Madsen moved to designate September as PTA Membership Month. Sue Cooper seconded the motion and the motion carried unanimously.

     

    President Yates called for a brief recess (rest break) at 5:55 p.m. President Yates re-convened the regular meeting at 6 p.m.

    (Note: At this point in the meeting, Board member Roberts left to keep another appointment.)  

    		   

    PROCLAMATIONDesignating September as PTA Membership Month

    A Board work session was held concerning project needs relative to a maintenance and operations levy, a capital levy and a bond issue (E:16/06). Dr. Whitehead opened the session by saying that only the bond issue and the capital levy would be discussed at tonight’s session. Three levels of need have been identified: maintenance and operations (for day-to-day maintenance); a bond issue to address long-term infrastructure needs (major renovations and new schools); and a capital levy for intermediate needs (additional capital needs that do not fall into the same category as a new building or major renovation, but are needed to keep facilities safe, dry and warm such as new heating systems, new roofs and ongoing maintenance).

     

    Associate Superintendent for Finance and Operations Bob Collard introduced Mike Gunn, Director of Facilities and Planning, and Jeff Moore, Director of Finance. Mike opened by saying many individuals have worked on this plan, including members of the Departments of Maintenance, Food and Nutrition Services, Transportation and the schools. He presented a school modernization schedule that places the schools on a 40-year cycle of five phases with eight years per phase. By following this schedule, every building will be addressed at least once. Dates when the buildings were built and/or modernized were taken into consideration. An architectural firm and a cost estimating firm are working with the District. Mike said that factors beyond the District’s control, such as Hurricane Katrina, have greatly impacted the cost of construction.

     

     

     

    Mike showed proposed bond projects including $27.9 million of new construction, Phase One modernizations of $93.8 million, property acquisition of $17.9 million, and technology projects (outlined by Ken Toyn) of $11.8 million, for a total of $151.4 million. To that was added bond or levy projects for technology of $21.1 million and capital projects of $19.6 million, totaling $40.7 million. Combining the $151.4 million and the $40.7 million, the total facilities needs amount to $192.1 million.

     

    Director of Finance Jeff Moore discussed funding options and shared guiding parameters. He showed tax rates between 1995 and 2002. Next, he showed projected vs. actual rates between 2003 and 2006. Jeff then discussed projected rates for 2007 to 2010, showing three possible scenarios. Dr. Whitehead indicated that she worked with Jeff, Ken, Mike and Bob to understand the scenarios and the costs, after which she determined that her recommendation would be to use Scenario 2 which includes a four-year capital levy of $20 million, and a bond amount of $172 million which would result in a total cost to voters of $292,660,000 or a total tax rate per $1,000 of assessed valuation of $5.77 (including the maintenance and operations levy). It is a small increase, said Dr. Whitehead, from what the voters are paying today and less than what the District told them they would be paying.

     

    Discussion followed. Dr. Whitehead asked the Board whether there might be needs that should be added or taken away. She asked their opinion on the 40-year cycle and which of the scenarios seem preferable. Regarding the cycle, Board member Cooper asked whether an in-between time was considered between the 30- and 40-year cycle. Bob said one usually sees a 30- or 40-year cycle; rarely does one see 20. Using a 35-year cycle could be analyzed, but it might skew the distribution of projects over time. Mike said more schools could be added to Phase One or some other combination could be considered. In terms of the financing structure, Jeff said in his dealings with Bank of America to develop an asset management program (capital levy combined with a bond), the eight-year phasing appeared to present a good breaking point. Dr. Whitehead noted that having the capital levy will allow work to be done on some of the schools that would not receive major modernizations until later.

     

    President Yates said he feels District staff do a good job of analyzing needs and the public has shown over a long period time that it agrees with the District’s position regarding the upkeep of facilities and meeting unhoused student needs. He acknowledged that the 40-year cycle is a departure for the District, so he emphasized the importance of ensuring that the District’s constituents understand why it is cost effective and supports the direction of the District. He said he wants to scrutinize the scenarios more closely, but Scenarios 2 or 3 seem preferable. He supports the pay-as-you-go idea associated with a capital levy.

     

    Dr. Whitehead said her upcoming meetings with groups (which will ultimately include 300 – 400 individuals) can incorporate information about the 40-year cycle and the use of the capital levy and bond. To help put some of the needs into perspective, she may also speak in terms of one’s own home and how one finances certain kinds of improvements such as re-siding and re-roofing.

     

    Board member Madsen said the phasing planning is good and clearly deals with recognized needs. She noted that having three issues on the ballot actually represent the same money addressing the same needs, but financed in a different way, which ends up costing less in the longterm.

     

    Educating the public will be essential. Board member Dutton said she thinks people appreciate the ongoing nature of maintenance of facilities. Board member Cooper concurred that informing the constituency is important because the ballot will “look” different with three issues. She said the District has always done a good job of projecting, so she is comfortable with what has been presented. However, she wondered whether more consideration needs to be given to future property acquisition.

     

    In closing, Dr. Whitehead asked whether the Board needed additional information. Board member Madsen asked that elaboration be provided about how the new technology money fits with previous technology funding. Board member Cooper requested that data be prepared showing an additional elementary school, to which Dr. Whitehead said the figures can be prepared based on Scenario 2 although the total amount of the bond would increase.

    		   BOARD WORK SESSION—PROJECT NEEDS—MAINTENANCE & OPERATIONS LEVY, CAPITAL LEVY

    AND BOND ISSUE

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    BOARD WORK SESSION—PROJECT NEEDS—MAINTENANCE & OPERATIONS LEVY, CAPITAL LEVY

    AND BOND ISSUE

    (cont’d.)

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    BOARD WORK SESSION—PROJECT NEEDS—MAINTENANCE & OPERATIONS LEVY, CAPITAL LEVY

    AND BOND ISSUE

    (cont’d.)

    With no further comments, President Yates adjourned the regular meeting at 7 p.m.    _____________________________ ________________________________ Carol Whitehead, Secretary   Roy Yates, President
    		    

     

     

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