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HomeMy Public PortalAboutBrewster School Committee -- 2010-12-16 Minutes (2) dDDDO ll1ii Brewster School Committee Minutes of Thursday, December 16, 2010 Held at Eddy Elementary School Chair O'Reilly called the meeting to order at 7:01 p.m. ROLL CALL: For the Committee: David Telman, Jen Rabold, Marie Enochty, and Chair O'Reilly Mara Liebling arrived at 7:10 p.m. For the Administration: Richard Hoffmann, Keith Gauley, Denise Fronius, and Hans Baumhauer Others: Town Officials and interested citizens CITIZENS SPEAK— Tirsh Hill, President of the PTO, addressed the Committee regarding using technology at meetings so the audience can follow along in the budget deliberations. Dr. Hoffmann reminded the audience that the School Committee receives the budget first and copies will be available for the public tomorrow. He will also have the budgets, even though they are working drafts, put on the websites for each school. Town officials will receive their copy tomorrow. RECOGNITIONS- Dr. Hoffmann recognized former Superintendent, Mike Gradone, who in turn, recognized two Brewster Artists who are affiliated with "Arts Link." Haleigh Francis and Lily Hale, Nauset High School juniors from Brewster, displayed their paintings of the Cape Cod Baseball League and shared their positive experience working with the Arts Link Program. Dr. Hoffmann recognized Emily McGrath, Alicia Detterman, and Sophia Backus for being chosen to display their artwork at the Cape Cod Museum of Art. Dr. Hoffmann recognized Pat Lindquist, Laureen Barnes, K.T. Stone, and Sue Ford from Stony Brook Elementary School for their dedication and service to the children of Brewster. PRIORITY BUSINESS Building Use Dr. Hoffmann read a letter to the Committee and the audience relative to building use and a series of events that led to misunderstandings. Dr. Hoffmann also reported that a standardized form and policy for the district regarding building use has been drafted and will be brought to the Policy Subcommittee for review and recommendation. Brewster Whitecaps The Committee reviewed the agreement with the Brewster Whitecaps asking questions and getting clarification on various aspects of the agreement. It was noted pesticide/herbicide applications must always be brought to the School Committee for approval before being applied, protective playground netting, setting up and taking down, will be paid for by the Whitecaps. The Whitecaps will select vendors for vending purposes during the games, with vendors other than those selected by the Whitecaps, securing permits for the sale of food and/or beverages. The Whitecaps also agreed to allow school- related organizations to raise funds for school-related activities during games. Mr. Greg Baecker addressed the Committee with numerous concerns about the fields as well as building use fees and getting revenues for the Brewster Schools. He asked that the Committee look at fees, moving the trailer, and netting removal before signing a contract with the Whitecaps. A motion was made by Mrs. Enochty and seconded by Chair O'Reilly to accept the contract as written. Brewster School Committee Minutes—December 16, 2010 Page 2 Discussion ensued. Chair O'Reilly stated that he understood the need for revenue but the Brewster Whitecaps have given the Brewster Schools a lot, have invested a great deal in the fields and grounds and are a great value to our community. He also indicated that renewing and rewriting the contract reminds everyone of their obligations. Mr. Baumhauer will give the Committee a report relative to costs incurred by the school for taking down the netting at the school. Mr. Gradone indicated it is clear that the Whitecaps will put up and remove both safety nets. Trish Hill addressed the Committee regarding vendors paying a fee, as they do in Orleans. Dr. Liebling indicated that this was an opportunity for other organizations to benefit by being a vendor at the game. The question was asked who benefits from the profits? Chair O'Reilly indicated that in Section#13 of the contract, Assignment and Subletting, no one is excluded but rather share the field with the Town. Some members of the audience felt that the Skippers were not a non-profit and should be paying a fee and those fees could go toward school supplies. Questions were raised regarding dumpster removal and bathroom usage/wear and tear. Approve Mrs. Enochty made a motion to move the question. It was voted, 4 yeas, 1 nay (Dr. Liebling), to move Brewster the question. Whitecap Agreement The previous motion to accept the contract was voted, 4 yeas and 1 abstention (Dr. Liebling). Administrators' Reports Principal Gauley reported on the Community Service Club activities which included a visit to Epoch. In lieu of gifts, the Community Service Club asked staff for donations to the Eddy Cares Fund. This fund helps with groceries, gas cards, holiday gifs, and many other needs especially during the holiday season. Students are also contributing to the holiday food drive. Eddy school staff members are creating Support Plans for students in need of additional assistance in regard to literacy or math. This is the first trial at creating Math Support Plans for students. With the new Math Support Plans interventions are being structured to assist students with number facts, written explanations to math problems and problem-solving strategies, as well as targeted interventions to specific math strands based upon students' past performance. These interventions will begin in January and February with targeted goals to determine success. Principal Gauley invited everyone to Family Literacy Night on January 11tn from 6:00 p.m. —7:30 p.m. Principal Fronius invited the School Committee to the holiday concert on December 22nd at 1:20 p.m. She also thanked the PTO for funding the Brian Lees presentation on bats. Peg Ariel, local author, shared her animal books with staff and students. Principal Fronius reported that they are in receipt of a grant from the Cape Cod Five for$500 for the computer lab to update"Kids Pixs", mimeos for grade one, and copies of science books for Kindergarten. Dr. Hoffmann reported that he has been very busy with bus transportation, budget preparation, and negotiations. He attended concerts at the High School and Middle School, which were outstanding. He also visited the Wellfleet Council on Aging to see the Wellfleet chorus perform for the senior citizens. A Bullying Prevention Workshop was held on November 23rd for all staff in the district. The High School held their Winter Festival and all the Christmas trees sold out. Chair O'Reilly, Hans Baumhauer and the Superintendent had a meeting regarding the FY12 Capital Plan for Brewster. FY11 Budget Hans Baumhauer, Business Manager, reviewed the monthly expense reports. A question was raised about the septic repair and the account number. It was indicated it is a Capital expense but has to be processed through the gift account for payment. 'r , Brewster School Committee Minutes—December 16, 2010 Page 3 Enrollment Projections Mr. Baumhauer reviewed the figures from the cohort five years ago to the present cohort indicating it NESDEC was within 2.6%. Dr. Hoffmann indicated that the numbers in various grade levels were not as precise Projections as he would like to see. The PTO asked that Dr. Hoffmann investigate a more robust cohort projection. He will obtain information from NESDEC. If you become a member, you can obtain a free projection analysis. The PTO has agreed to fund this expense. Dr. Hoffmannn will communicate with Trish Hill. The PTO would like the most accurate data available. Chair O'Reilly suggested that Administration ask NESDEC how much variation there might be from their study and the one from our cohort projections, FY12 Budget Process Dr. Hoffmann reviewed the various components of the FY12 budget. The Central Office budget was not approved at the Joint Meeting so he will bring it back to them with further recommendations at the January meeting. He also indicated there is no guarantee that contracts will be signed prior to town meeting and has included a line in the budget, reserved for negotiations. Capital Chair O'Reilly asked that infrastructure hardware be included in the capital accounts if possible as well Plan as whiteboards. Dr. Liebling indicated she would investigate ways to fund defibrillators for each school. The tractor repair item for$12,000 has been a capital item, but never gets voted, so the funds need to be included in the budget. Chair O'Reilly would like a percentage increase at the January meeting with everything restored. The Committee discussed how to proceed, prioritize, and move forward. The School Committee requested Prioritize that the Principals prioritize their lists for the next meeting. It was the consensus of the Committee to Budget include everything and come down if needed. The Committee brainstormed as to how to get"needs" Items out to the public and the need to advocate actively for the children. It was suggested that the School Televise Committee hold their meetings at Town Hall so that they can be televised. They also indicated it was meetings critical to get parents involved. It was suggested that the School Committee explore all options to get information disseminated, especially to various groups in town such as Men's Club, Nauset Newcomers, Golf Commission, and the Taxpayers Association. Update on Visioning Process Dr. Hoffmann indicated that Skye Freys-Cole was ready to proceed and suggested that two Committee Members be appointed to work with him for the next 3-4 weeks and plan an event that would take place in late January. He invited the Committee to attend the Orleans Elementary School Visioning Event that will take place on January 7th from 5:00—8:00 p.m. at the school. Dr. Mara Liebling and Jen Rabold volunteered to meet with the Superintendent. REPORTS AND INFORMATION Cape Cod Collaborative—Ms. Enochty will mail her report to Committee members. Transportation Subcommittee—The transportation surveyed has been reviewed, revised, and given to Kathy Schrock to put into an electronic format. This will be sent to all parents in the district through School Reach. Approval of Minutes On a motion by Dr. Liebling, seconded by Ms. Rabold, it was voted to approve the minutes of the meeting of November 18, 2010. Abstaining: Mr. Telman and Ms. Enochty. Adjournment On a motion by Mr. Telman, seconded by Chair O'Reilly, it was voted unanimously to adjourn the meeting at 9:23 p.m., subject to payment of bills. Brewster School Committee Minutes—December 16, 2010 Page 4 On a motion by Ms. Rabold, seconded by Mr. Telman it was voted by roll call to go into Executive Session for the purpose of discussing strategy with respect to collective bargaining with union employees. The Committee announced it would not return to public session. On a roll call the vote was as follows: Ms. Enochty—yea Dr. Liebling—yea Ms. Rabold—yea Mr. Telman—yea Chair O'Reilly—yea The Committee went into Executive Session at 9:25 p.m. Respectfully submitted, An ,�+� efft, ec ing secre ry c::. I., ,.r, R,317ph- ov Brewster School Committee Cry► g Minutes of Thursday, September 23,2010 Held at Eddy Elementary School Chair O'Reilly called the meeting to order at 7:05 p.m. ROLL CALL: -For the Committee:Mara Liebling,David Telman,Jen Rabold,and Chair O'Reilly -For the Administration: Richard Hoffmann,Bonny Gifford, Denise Fronius, Keith Gauley,and Hans Baumhauer -Others: Peter Norton,parents,interested citizens AGENDA CHANGES-There will be an executive session to discuss possible litigation. CITIZENS SPEAK- Donna Kalinick, Preserving Quality Education Committee,updated the committee on their progress in informing Brewster voters about budgetary issues at the elementary school. October 15th is a free Ice cream social at the Eddy School with speakers Dr. Richard Hoffmann and Mr. Charlie Sumner. Greg Baecker addressed the Committee with several questions regarding the timeframe when fields will receive topsoil, concession stand usage and charges,and the ownership of the field. Chair OOReilly indicated that his questions would be answered in a letter format or as an agenda item in October. RECOGNITIONS- Principals Fronius and Gauley recognized Tiffany Nicely-Holleck and her daughters Joanna and Lydia for organizing the back to school breakfast for staffs. Bridget Dickson was recognized for ordering the"Welcome back to School"signs that were hung at both buildings by John Dickson and PTO,Co-Secretary,Dave Whitney. Greg Baecker was recognized for landscaping the front of the Stony Brook Elementary School. PTO President,Trish Hill, was recognized for her leadership and organizational skills in helping the PTO with various fundraising events. Dave and Karen Whitney,along with their children,Victoria and Mikey were recognized for their most generous acts of volunteerism by helping with school opening festivities. PRIORITY BUSINESS Administrators' Reports Principal Gauley reported that Eddy School had a great opening day. Enrollment is at 249 with 12 new students enrolling over the summer. Eleven students moved over the summer. The Eddy School Improvement Plan has been updated with"targets"added. Principal Gauley is participating in a field test program as he goes forward to become a Nationally Board Certified Principal. Principal Fronius reported a wonderful school opening and thanked all who participated in the day's events. Mara Liebling helped orchestrate a Wellness Expo at Stony Brook,which was extremely well done. Principal Fronius provided the Committee with highlights from the Stony Brook School Improvement Plan. Dr.Hoffmann informed the Committee of the exciting opening day for staff held at Nauset Regional Middle School. There was a lot of enthusiasm and energy among staff. The theme for this year is"We are all Dream Makers." The focus of the year will be on three initiatives;mathematics,bullying prevention efforts,and community connections and partnerships. Dr.Hoffmann reported attending both Open Houses that were very well attended.The Superintendent informed the Committee that Gary Pegararo from Hub Technical will be looking at the infrastructure and technology in all the schools. Chair O'Reilly inquired about the status of the roof. Principal Fronius indicated that the roof has been fixed and that perhaps this leak was caused when the solar panels were installed. MCAS Results Dr.Bonny Gifford,Assistant Superintendent,gave a brief overview of some of the components of MCAS scoring, including terminology used in reporting.Dr.Gifford stated that the performance rating is high in all Nauset schools. Most scores are above State average. Principal Gauley highlighted strengths,achievements, weaknesses,and plans on how to improve student achievement for struggling students. It was noted that Eddy School received a commendation from DESE for being removed from"Improvement Status"and receiving a no status determination. School Improvement Plan Principal Fronius reviewed the 2010-2011 School Improvement Plan for the Stony Brook Elementary School. A new district-wide format was used to create the plan. It was noted that teachers and the school council have endorsed the plan. On a motion by Mrs.Rabold,seconded by Mr.Telman,it was voted unanimously to accept the Stony Brook Elementary School Improvement Plan. FY11 Budget Han Baumhauer reviewed the monthly expense report with School Committee members and answered questions on various accounts. Mr.Baumhauer will send a revised copy of the monthly report to Committee members, as there was some confusion with the salary accounts. The Committee reviewed non-salary accounts. Race To The Top-The Superintendent reported that Brewster will receive$24,322 over the next four years in Race To The Top funding. This money can only be spent on certain things. Some suggestions on ways to spend the funds would be: align our curriculum to new Common Core(that is what we will do); consider revisions to teacher and principal evaluation systems,using data to inform instruction,and promoting positive school climates. Dr.Gifford is writing a grant proposal as to how we will spend the$6,000 in the first year. She will bring this back to the Chair for signature,along with signatures from the Superintendent and Union President. Federal Jobs Bill Funding-Dr.Hoffmann reported that Brewster will be receiving$62,353 and possibly another $4,4741.Money will come through the town and be sent up like a grant. This money could be used to cover a shortfall already in the budget. It cannot be used to supplant anything in the budget. Principals Fronius and Gauley distributed an outline of how they would like to use the additional funding which included restoring IDEA funding loss,Educational Assistant support,Kindergarten grant loss,Reading/Technology support,Reading/Math Enrichment support,increase tutor's hours and additional math support. A discussion ensued regarding reinstating positions that were cut out of the budget last year, like the reading specialist. Committee members were reminded that this money is for one year only and that the Principals' plan encompasses a variety of areas needing assistance. It was suggested that if the reading specialist is to be reinstated, it would have to be part of an override. Dr.Hoffmann reiterated the need to reinstate the reading specialist but agreed that Brewster must have the other things as well.. The Committee needs to have a budget that maintains what Brewster has and also show what needs to be brought back to have excellent schools. He recommended that the Committee move forward with the Principals'recommendation for the funding. It was suggested that the Committee educate the public. Brewster received$62,000 but had to cut$372,000 out of last year's budget. The School Committee needs to advocate for itself and support a sufficient budget for the elementary schools, On a motion by Mr.Telman,seconded by Dr. Liebling,it was voted unanimously to accept the Jobs Bill Funding breakdown as submitted for Stony Brook and Eddy Elementary Schools. Strategic Plan Update Dr.Hoffmann reported that Marie Enochty has volunteered to be a member of the Strategic Plan Steering Committee. Principals are submitting names of teachers,parents,and community members for consideration as members of the Committee. Dr.Maxine Minkoff will facilitate the process. The Superintendent informed the Committee that Eastham and Orleans are moving forward with a"visioning" process for their towns,which will include gathering community members,teachers, and parents and doing a SWOT analysis. Brewster may want to do this too. Principal Gauley indicated that he could create a community-wide survey. It was the consensus of the Committee that they would like to have a"visioning process." Dr.Hoffmann indicated he would see how this could be funded. He also indicated he would share information from the Wellfleet and Eastham visioning process.Chair O'Reilly asked that Dr. Hoffmann go forward and get proposals. MASC Resolutions Dr.Hoffmann asked that the Committee think about sending a delegate to the conference. This will be placed on the October agenda. REPORTS AND INFORMATION Cape Cod Collaborative Mrs.Rabold reported that the Cape Cod Collaborative is in their new building and are very happy in their new space. They are working very closely with an agency that works with special needs students and after school programs. That agency is doing upgrades to fields and facilities. Chair O'Reilly reported that the septic tank was inspected and needs minor repairs.(cracked covers,unequal flow) Tim Brady has a list of repairs and recommendations. Mr. Baumhauer has bids for$3,000-$4,000. Chair O'Reilly indicated that the work should be done and the cost will have to be absorbed. It was suggested that this be part of the Capital Program. Dr. Hoffmann indicated that he would speak with Mr. Sumner regarding this matter. Selectmen Peter Norton indicated he would see what he could do as well. Executive Session-was not needed. APPROVAL OF MINUTES On a motion by Mr. Telman,seconded by Dr. Liebling, it was voted to approve the minutes of July 23,2010. (Jen Rabold D not voting) ADJOURNMENT On a motion by Mrs.Rabold,seconded by Mr.Telman, it was voted to adjourn the meeting at 8:54 p.m.,subject to payment of bills. tfully su ed, Ann M.Tefft,recording secretary ,., I..'I ..r:;::. ,.., I I