School Board Minutes
ADVANCE COPY
SUBJECT TO THE APPROVAL OF THE JMA SCHOOL BOARD
STATE OF NEW HAMPSHIRE
SCHOOL ADMINISTRATIVE UNITS #51 & #72
ALTON & BARNSTEAD SCHOOL DISTRICTS
PMHS Joint Maintenance Board
November 3, 2004
I. CALL TO ORDER
Members Present: Cydney Johnson, Chair
Wayne Fraser
Maureen Fitzpatrick
Loring Carr
Terri Noyes
Eunice Landry
Kathy Preston
Larry Alting
Normand Tanguay, JMA Superintendent
Russell Holden, PMHS Principal
Chip Krause, Architect
Members of the Public
Chairman Johnson called the meeting to order at 6:04 p.m.
II. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
III. ROLL CALL
Chairman Johnson announced that Sam Greenlaw, the vice-chair, had stepped down from the JMA Board. Dan Barraford was absent because of illness this evening.
IV. PUBLIC FORUM
Chairman Johnson recognized that there are many people with opinions and views to be expressed, but she asked that outside conversations wait for the proper time. Conversation which inhibited others from hearing the meeting would result in those people being asked to leave.
Shelby Hicks said she had concerns about the Finance Committee. There have been no cuts to date, but possibilities include the Freshman Ropes and Orientation Program which helped facilitate students from both towns becoming a class together. It was a well-attended program and students enjoyed the program and learned valuable team-building lessons. She is opposed to library books being put on a separate warrant article. She feels that the warrant article will likely fail, and asks if this is in the best interest of the children. She noted 4 teaching positions in the areas of math, science, English, and Social Studies opening up at PMHS. There is also a guidance position opening up. With the new families moving in and increase in enrollment, this will not be enough. With the exception of Mrs. Noyes, she feels the school board is only concerned with the bottom line. She said that Mr. Holden has expressed to the Finance Committee that he is against making cuts as it will affect the education of students. She urged the Board to stay informed of the tactics and decisions of the finance committee.
She hopes the Board supports the attendance policy that has been presented. Regarding the brick issue, she still has no information about what has been spent to date, what is expected to be spent and legal fees for brick consultation and testing. She will send a formal letter, as she feels coming to the Board meeting was not enough. She regrets that Mr. Greenlaw has stepped down from the Board. She has a serious concern about an issue in Barnstead regarding Mrs. Landry. Point of Order was called by Chairman Johnson and Ms. Hicks was asked to respect the ground rules of Public Input.
Bob Longabaugh said the Open House aired on Channel 26 and he commended the videographer and the student leaders who gave the tour. Copies of the tape have been given to the Gilman and Barnstead libraries and are available to the public. There is also one at the PMHS library. He expressed concern as a former city planner, that enrollment is creeping higher and he suggests a planning committee to accommodate them.
Chairman Johnson closed the first session of public input.
V. AGENDA REVISIONS
T. Noyes suggested sending a note of thanks to the gentleman who videotaped the open house. K. Preston asked to add discussion of a busing issue under IX. Board and Superintendent Communications. L. Alting asked to add discussion of the bond money, Mr. Tanguay said it would be included in his report. M. Fitzpatrick asked to add discussion of the voting at PMHS on November 2nd after the busing issue under IX. Board and Superintendent Communications.
On a motion by K. Preston, seconded by L. Carr, the Board voted to approve the agenda as amended with a unanimous vote.
VI. APPROVAL OF MINUTES – 10/19/04
K. Preston made a motion, seconded by E. Landry, to approve the minutes of 10/19/04. The recorder noted a correction caught earlier to add the decision to seal the non-public minutes of 10/19/04 for the period of one year by a vote of 7 For (MF, CJ, SG, DB, KP, LC, and EL) and 2 Against (TN, LA) under XIII. Decisions. C. Johnson made a correction on page 8, in the last paragraph of X. Public Input, the term “resignation” should be changed to “retirement”. On a motion by L. Carr, seconded by K. Preston, the Board approved the minutes as amended by a vote of 7 For (MF, LA, EL, TN, CJ, KP, LC) and 1 Abstention (WF).
VII. PRESENTATION
A. FRESHMAN SEMINAR
Kim Kelliher, social studies teacher, and Paula Adriance of the English Department at PMHS, introduced a new course for freshmen. Ms. Kelliher explained that it is an advisor/advisee program aimed at building a sense of community among students. There were 9 visionaries in getting the program started. The model for this program around the country is 1 faculty member for 12-15 students and the objectives, depending on the community, can be any of the following: social and emotional needs of the kids, helping with academics, building community within the school, keep kids from dropping out, and helping them make healthy and appropriate choices. Their goal is to begin with the freshman class this year and every year thereafter add a grade. This will help them evaluate the program. Ms. Adriance had a small group of students and they focused on literacy. It is a work in progress, but a survey she did among her students was very positive. She performed mini-lessons in study skills, helped students feel supported in transitioning to high school, and she sees her role as making herself available for students’ concerns. The only homework has been applying the skills they’ve learned (such as study skills). Right now the program is run for one quarter. Ms. Kelliher asked for the Board’s support for the Freshman Seminar. As a social studies teacher, she feels the life skills that are being taught are very important. There are dedicated faculty members who are willing to step forward and help. K. Preston asked about activities they did. Ms. Kelliher said they read a book and write journal entries, they watch short movie clips and write responses, read folk tales and discuss them. Many of the students do not know the broader world, and they are trying to prepare them by showing them their connection with current events, discussions, and team building. They would be doing the students a disservice if they did not address social/emotional aspects as well as academics. K. Preston asked if the guidance department was involved as well. Ms. Kelliher said the students are sometimes referred to guidance and students are aware that this is a possibility. She said student planners are checked on a regular basis, kids’ work was being assessed and this class carries ½ credit. Ms. Adriance noted that the teachers are learning as they go what works and what doesn’t. At one point, bullying was addressed and was a positive experience for the students. One issue they’re working on is scheduling, so that every student has an opportunity for this class and the ratio of teacher to student is more even. Mr. Holden expressed support for the program and pointed out that teachers have volunteered their time. The accreditation guidelines strongly recommend a mentoring program. Ms. Kelliher said that a guest speaker, Michael Pritchard, spoke on bullying and a freshman stood up and spoke in front of the school and then reported back to his group. He felt supported and it was a huge step for him. Mr. Holden and the Board thanked Ms. Adriance and Ms. Kelliher for their presentation.
XIII. INFORMATIONAL ITEMS
A. ARCHITECT
Chip Krause gave a reduced punch-list to Board Members, stating that the only punch-list left is the one to be completed after
B. SUBCOMMITTEE REPORTS
1) Budget and Finance, Eunice Landry
Eunice Landry said the Finance Committee continues to meet with the school administration and Mr. Tanguay. Mr. Tanguay presented financial reports to the Board. First the operating budget which reflects revenues, and the balance due, pending any other income which would reduce the assessment. The pink page indicates the current operating budget and remaining balance, which is projected to be $200,906.59. This number will change as bills are still coming in, and projected savings have not been added. Mr. Tanguay passed out an orange paper which is the Food Service Report. It will be issued on a monthly basis. This report shows 6 accounts. The money budgeted was $229,310.00, expenses as of 10/31/04 are $45,058.47 and estimated balance to be spent is $184,251.53. T. Noyes asked when the next finance committee would be held. E. Landry said November 10th. W. Fraser made a motion, seconded by L. Alting, that the Finance Committee show a list of any and all items to be removed from the Budget in order for the Board to provide input. Mr. Tanguay agreed that a motion was in order, but it is common practice for the finance committee to do so. The motion passed with a unanimous vote by the Board.
2) Building and Grounds, Dan Barraford
No report at this time.
C. DUTIES OF SCHOOL BOARD MEMBERS AND SUPERINTENDENT OF SCHOOLS
Mr. Tanguay presented information in Board Members’ packets which outlines these duties because he thought it would be helpful in clarifying duties and expectations. Often question arise about what a superintendent does, or what responsibilities of school board members. C. Johnson said she found the information under item I (superintendent’s duties) which states “Provide for temporary staff to fill vacancies and shall provide supplies immediately needed for the operation of the schools;” particularly useful.
VIII. BOARD AND SUPERINTENDENT COMMUNICATIONS
Mr. Tanguay passed out Board Updates which include information on recent occurrences, such as the state board draft of New Standards, the minutes of the September 15th Dept. of Education meeting, buses parking in the 1st lot of PMHS (they are Alton buses), a certificate of insurance for the voting which took place on November 2nd at PMHS, the Alton tax rate, Barnstead tax rate, a letter from SAU #51 regarding the PMHS having the same initials as the school in Pittsfield. This information will be shared about every 2 weeks. Also included are applications from the Alton Planning Board for housing permits, which should help with the discussion of anticipated enrollment. L. Carr asked Mr. Tanguay to ask the planning board about the impact fees, Mr. Tanguay agreed to do so. Mr. Tanguay believes the proper credit for the fees will be given. L. Carr would still like background information on this issue. 54 applications have come in.
K. Preston asked, due to a request by the bus company, if 3 students who attend PMHS but live in Barnstead, could ride the
M. Fitzpatrick brought up the day of voting at PMHS, saying that she was contacted at the Board meeting by a man trying to drop off his daughter in the front of the school. Placard holders were in the way. The man was quite upset. When she arrived at 9:45 she observed people in front of the school. Mr. Holden said they were on the curb closest to the parking lot until rain started around 12:30 and 3 of the people moved out of the rain until they were asked to move before student dismissal. Mr. Holden said they stood where they were supposed to stand. The gentleman also left a message for Mr. Tanguay. M. Fitzpatrick said this issue should be discussed again next year before voting takes place.
IX. ACTION ITEMS
A. Student Request for Early Graduation
Document IKFA – the policy on early graduation is included in tonight’s packet because a student who has met the requirements has requested early graduation. The administration recommends approval. T. Noyes asked for clarification about displacement of other students in class rank. No one would be displaced, per Mr. Holden. The student would be allowed to participate in the graduation where they would be placed appropriately within the class. The student is aware of class rank procedures. On a motion by T. Noyes, seconded by K. Preston, the Board voted unanimously to grant early graduation to the student upon the recommendation of the administration.
B. In-Service – Role of a School Board Member
Items B and C are being addressed together. Mr. Tanguay proposes having Mr. Mark Joyce of the NH School Administrators Association to conduct an in-service presentation at the cost of $500. He feels it would be beneficial to this Board, especially being a JMA. He also proposes an in-service for Special Education which would last approximately an hour. This is a standard practice among other school boards. He went over the qualifications of the association as well as Mr. Joyce, noting that it is a reputable association. W. Fraser said the key to having this type of presentation is going into it with an open mind. It might ruffle some people’s feathers, but if we listen and absorb what he says, it is a useful exercise. C. Johnson agreed. K. Preston made a motion, seconded by E. Landry, to accept the recommendation of Mr. Tanguay to have two in-service presentations: Special Education and the Role of a School Board Member. W. Fraser asked if the Special Education was specific to our JMA, or if it is a general presentation on special education procedures with regard to the school board. Mr. Tanguay clarified that it is the latter. W. Fraser also suggested capping the time and money spent on the special education in-service. W. Fraser amended the motion, seconded by T. Noyes, to limit the cost of the special education in-service to $250. The amended motion passed with a unanimous vote by the Board.
C. In-Service – Special Education
D. Attendance Policy – Second Reading
K. Preston asked if a child would be considered absent if brought in late. Mr. Holden said that would be considered an unexcused tardy. L. Carr made a motion, seconded by K. Preston, to change the wording “unexcused absences” to “parent/guardian excused absences” in the second reading of the attendance policy’s first paragraph. The motion passed with a vote of 6 For (LC, MF, CJ, EL, LA, KP) and 2 Against (TN, WF).
At this time, Mr. Dean Eggert, legal counsel for the JMA, was asked to come forward to speak on the attendance policy. He said the issue is trying to balance two competing concerns: maximizing attendance vs. not pressuring parents to bring sick children to school. With the recent shortage of flu vaccine, parents have been encouraged to keep children home if flu is suspected. His suspicion is that it will be a policy-weighted decision, not a legal decision. However, he would be glad to give legal counsel on the drafts if necessary. K. Preston asked Mr. Holden about teachers who may be penalized if they think they have the flu and call in sick. Mr. Holden explained the amount of sick days offered to teachers.
E. Extra-Curricular Eligibility Policy – Second Reading
K. Preston made a motion, seconded by T. Noyes, to accept the second reading of the extra-curricular eligibility policy. The motion passed with a vote of 6 For (KP, TN, EL, CJ, MF, WF) and 1 Against (LC). *Mr. Alting was not in the room during this vote.
F. Memorials Policy
The policy FFA is included in the packet. The donated bench will have a name on it, but since it is not memorializing the building or the fields it is permitted. This follows policy.
G. Personnel Report
The administration put forth their recommendation for weight room supervisor at a stipend of $3000. W. Fraser asked what daily hours it would be and would it be all year long? Mr. Holden said it would be daily from 3:15-4:00 pm and it would be all year. W. Fraser asked if the weight room is closed when that person is not here - Mr. Holden said no, coverage is provided by qualified persons. L. Carr asked to move this discussion to non-public under the provisions of RSA 91-A:3 II (b).
H. Budget/Manifest Discussion
M. Fitzpatrick asked for clarification about 2 items under “school specialties” on the manifest. Mr. Holden said he believes they refer to bulletin boards and white boards. She asked about $1,366 under Food Service, Mr. Holden said he would have to check on specific items. K.
X. PUBLIC FORUM
Ruth Messier clarified the spelling of Dean Eggert, legal counsel. She asked the Board to give exact dollar figures when making motions on expenditures, because it’s difficult for members of the public to follow without the manifest in front of them. She thanked Chairman Johnson for her words regarding public input at the beginning of the meeting.
Kim Kelliher urged the Board to approve the attendance policy, she voiced support for Mr. Holden’s handling communication with parents regarding absences. She feels that students easily fall behind with too many absences. It sets a serious tone for attendance expectations.
Dan LaCroix asked when the architect is exempt from any legal liability for the building project. Mr. Tanguay said he can check, but that is a legal question. He asked if the liability is released when the certificate of substantial completion is finished. Mr. Tanguay said it relates to retainage reduction and punch lists. He asked if the outside punch list includes fixing the grade of the baseball field. He feels that it is grossly pitched, with several golf ball-sized rocks which should be removed. He feels that the backstop is too far from homeplate and the foul pole is off to the right. He hopes these issues are being addressed.
Chairman Johnson closed the second session of public input.
XI. NEXT MEETING
The next meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, November 16, 2004 at
XII. NON-PUBLIC SESSION
On a motion by C. Johnson, seconded by K. Preston, the Board was polled and by roll call voted unanimously to convene in non-public session at 7:50 p.m. under the provisions of RSA 91-A:3 II (b) and RSA 91-A:2 I (c), personnel and legal counsel, respectively.
On a motion by Terry Noyes, seconded by Wayne Fraser, the Board was polled and voted unanimously to reconvene in public session at 9:26 p.m.
XIII. DECISIONS
K. Preston made a motion, seconded by T. Noyes, to approve the stipend of $3000 to hire Michael Folan for the weight room supervisor position. M. Fitzpatrick said she was under the impression that discussion would precede the hiring vote. Mr. Holden disagreed, saying that was never considered as an option. The motion passed by a vote of 3 For (WF, TN, CJ) 2 Against (LC, MF) and 2 Abstentions (KP, EL).
XIV. ADJOURNMENT
On a motion by Eunice Landry, seconded by Maureen Fitzpatrick, the Board was polled and voted unanimously to adjourn at 9:30 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Jennifer Patrice Harper
Recorder, Public Session
Normand Tanguay, Superintendent
Recorder, Non-Public Session