Regular School Board Meeting Minutes

Tuesday, May 3, 2005 – 7:00 p.m.

School Board Meeting Room

Stuart, FL  34994

 

Members Present

Susan Hershey – Chair

Lorie Shekailo-Vice- Chair

Dr. David Anderson

Laurie Gaylord

Nancy Kline

Dr. Sara A. Wilcox, Superintendent

Tom Elfers, School Board Attorney

Katie Gillen, Student Representative (MCHS)

 

Members Absent

None

 

Staff Present

Ken Cummings, Kathy Cummings, Gail Olsen, Ginger Featherstone, Joan Hunt, Kit Weir, Nancy Marin, Par Schmoyer, Ray Parrish, Delores Calloway,, Rae Hollenbeck, Darrell Miller, Darla Miloszewski, Rodger Osborne, Dr. Frank Raffone, Marshall Skinner, Hank Salzler, Ruth Pietruszewski, Cathleen Brennan, Gail Williams, Xenobia Anderson, Ken Weir, Clarissa Cartozian, Conney Dahn  

 

Public

David Cartozian, Deann Cartozian, Derrick Cartozian, Kim Gutierrez, Al Forman, Teri Weiss, Cheryl Larshan, Larry Larshan, Gretchen Pech, Nick Blount, Lucy Corley, Betty Marshall

 

Press    PBPost – Mike Bender               Stuart News – Kelly Tyko

 

MCEA – Jeanette Phillips                       AFSCME – No Representation

 

Call to Order by the Chairman and Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States. 

 

1.          Adoption of the Agenda:*

            A.         Additions, Deletions or Amendments to the Agenda

Dr. Sara A. Wilcox requested to remove Items 11-E and 11-F, under Construction.  Because of testing schedules, she removed from this agenda Items 3-F and 3-G, under Recognitions, and postponed the recognition of the MCHS and SFHS National Merit Finalists until the May 17, 2005 agenda.

            B.         Approval of the Agenda

Dr. David Anderson moved approval of the modified agenda, Lorie Shekailo seconded, and the motion carried unanimously.

 

2.         Approval of the Minutes:*                   4/19/05 Regular School Board Meeting Minutes

Lorie Shekailo moved approval of the 4/19/05 Regular School Board Meeting minutes, Nancy Kline seconded, and the motion carried unanimously.

 

3.         Recognitions:*                        

A.         Recognition: 2004-2005 United Way Campaign Champions; Highest Per Capita-Instructional Center; Special Recognition-Hidden Oaks Middle School, Felix A. Williams

Dr. Frank Raffone introduced Nick Blount, the Chairman of United Way.  He thanked the School Board for a successful campaign.  Martin County School District employees generously supported United Way by pledging $35,694.00, which will positively impact health and human service programs in this community.  The Martin County School District has been a committed partner since United Way’s inception in 1972.  United Way and its partner agencies had a passionate response and raised 2.15 million dollars for this community this year, even in spite of hurricanes Jeanne and Francis hitting the area.  He made special recognitions to:

¨       The Instructional Center employees for the highest per capita giving

¨       Hidden Oaks Middle School had the greatest participation (98% of employees participated)

¨       Felix A. Williams Elementary had the largest increase in giving (44.4% over last year)

Dr. Sara A. Wilcox thanked Nick Blount for his leadership in this campaign.

           

 

 

3.         Recognitions:* (Con’t)

B.         Recognition:  Special Olympics Swim Team, Raleigh, North Carolina Awards Received

Betty Marshall, County Coordinator for Special Olympics of Martin County stated, “The ultimate objective of Special Olympics was to help people with intellectual disabilities to participate as productive and respected members of society, by offering them a fair opportunity to develop and demonstrate their skills and talents through sports training and competition, and to increase public awareness of their capabilities. Students from Martin County were taken to the National Aquatics Competition. Conney Dahn trained and coached the athletes. Conney Dahn had each of her students come before the Board, introduce themselves, and tell what event they competed in.  Conney Dahn said they all wore purple and black bathing suits and looked sharp.  They had no discipline problems, and the students were the best kids in the world.

C.     Recognition: Spelling Bee Winners-2005-37th Annual Lillian A. Dassori Elementary Spelling Bee-Martin County Regional Spelling Bee

Dr. Frank Raffone recognized the spellers.  He stated that their talent and recall were amazing.  Dr. Sara A. Wilcox and Sue Hershey presented the students with their certificates.

D.        Recognition:  2005 Governor’s High School All-Star-District Recipient:  Martin County High School

Joan Hunt, Principal of MCHS, explained the state’s criteria to win this award.  A high school junior is chosen on the following basis:

1.       Academic Success:  at least a 3.0 grade point average on a 4.0 scale

2.       Behavior:  Discipline record consistent with good deportment

3.       Leadership:  Participation in co/extra curricular activities such as athletics, enrichment programs, and school clubs

4.       Community Service:  Volunteerism, mentoring, civic activities

A student from Martin County High School earned this award.

E.         Recognition:  2005 District Scholar for the Sunshine State Scholars Program District Recipient:  South Fork High School

The Sunshine State Scholar award recipient was a student from South Fork High School. Pat Schmoyer, Principal of SFHS, stated that this award is to recognize a senior who is distinguished in both math and science.  The award is highly competitive.

F.         Recognize South Fork High School’s National Merit Finalists-(REMOVED FROM THE AGENDA)

G.         Recognize Martin County High School’s National Merit Finalists (REMOVED FROM THE AGENDA)

H.        Recognition of Retirees:  Ken Cummings-34 years; Kathy Cummings-34 years

Dr. Sara A. Wilcox and Sue Hershey presented Ken and Kathy Cummings plaques for their 34 years of service to Martin County School District.  Kathy currently is a Social Studies teacher at Hidden Oaks Middle School. She has worked at three middle schools. She has served as Builder’s Club sponsor, Academic Games sponsor for Language Arts and Social Studies, and been a peer teacher and team leader.   Ken currently is the Principal of Felix A. Williams Elementary School.  Ken holds a general contractor’s license and has frequently assisted the District by serving on numerous committees and selection teams in the area of facilities and construction.  He has served as a peer teacher and on the District Curriculum Committee. He was an Academic Games sponsor for Social Studies.

 

4.         Presentations:*           

            A.         Presentation of Long Range Planning Committee’s Recommendations for

Redistricting Middle School Boundaries Beginning for the 2006/07 School Year with the Addition of a New Middle School

Kim Gutierrez presented numbers showing how Hidden Oaks Middle School, Stuart Middle School, and Murray Middle School were all over 100% of their capacity, which is why the committee had to move students.  She presented street maps showing the boundaries.  An overview was given to show the areas where students were being moved from and which schools they were being moved to. She gave an overview of the proposed new middle school boundaries and showed the areas visually using color coded mapping.  The committee tried not to break up developments in the redistricting process.  The redistricting task was accomplished with a minimal number of people dissatisfied.

                                   

5.         Open to the Public:*

§         Al Forman addressed the Board for a second time and reiterated his opinions concerning school uniforms.

 

§         Jeanette Phillips, MCEA President, discussed Item 15-A under rule revisions, First Review and Approve Advertising Per APA for Section 2000 Program, Section 5000 Students, and Section 8000 Operations.  These policies take effect July 1, 2005.  She informed Board members that she had contacted Helene Baxter, Labor/Employment Representative, and Deana Newson, MCSD Director of HRMD and Staff Development, and plans to be meeting with them to discuss the union’s issues.

 

§         Teri Weiss, Cheryl Larschan, Larry Larschan, and Gretchen Pech took turns reading a letter that Gretchen Pech had composed concerning administrative practices.

           

6.         Removal of Items from the Consent Agenda:*

7.         Approve Consent Agenda:*

Lorie Shekailo made a motion to approve the Consent Agenda, Nancy Kline seconded, and the motion carried unanimously.

Sue Hershey recognized Clarissa Cartozian and asked her to introduce her family.  Clarissa Cartozian will be the new Pre-k Coordinator and Head Start Director.  Sue stated that Clarissa had graduated Summa Cum Laude with a Bachelor’s degree in Education.  She holds a Master’s degree in Special Education, Florida certifications in ESOL, K-3, and 1-6, and NY certifications in Special Ed grades K-12 and Nursery School thru 6th.  Clarissa has been with the District for 17 years.  Sue was very happy that Clarissa was chosen for the position and feels she will bring great skills to the program.

 

Clarissa thanked Dr. Wilcox and the Board. She felt honored to accept her new position.  She expressed her excitement and appreciation, stating she had a grateful heart being given this opportunity.  She reflected on her Dad’s words that taught her, “hard-work, dedication, commitment, and passion for something will get you somewhere in life.” She will strive for program excellence. Clarissa introduced her family. She left feeling honored and blessed.

 

Sue Hershey stated with Universal Pre-K coming, Clarissa was a great person to take this job.  Laurie Gaylord said she has shown a lot of passion. Sue Hershey and Laurie Gaylord have both served on Head Start Policy Council and have witnessed Clarissa’s thoroughness and excellent skills.

 

8.         CONSENT AGENDA

            A.         04/05 FY Attendance Zones:*                         None

           

            B.         Requests:*

                        1.          Use of Facilities:* (COPY ATTACHED)

                        2.         Field Trips / Use of Buses / Vehicles:* (COPY ATTACHED)

 

            C.         New Agreements:*     

 

            D.        Renewal Agreements:*           

            1.          “Addendum” to the Agreement Between Martin Memorial Medical

Center, Inc. and The School Board of Martin County

(COPY ATTACHED)

 

            E.        New Grants:*

                        1.          2004 Head Start C.O.B. (Carry-Over-Balance) for $77,620

(COPY ATTACHED)

 

            F.         Renewal Grants:*

 

G.        Personnel Items:*

1.          Schedule of Personnel Recommendations (COPY ATTACHED)

2.          Leaves Authorized by the Superintendent (COPY ATTACHED)

3.          Approval of Job Descriptions

            a.          Coordinator of Reading/Language Arts (COPY ATTACHED)

            b.         Coordinator of Math (COPY ATTACHED)

4.          Revised Job Description

            a.         Coordinator of Instructional and Technology Support

 (COPY ATTACHED)

5.          Request for One Additional Software Support Technician-Funded by Food & Nutritional Services (COPY ATTACHED)

6.          Change Contract Length of Food Service Managers from 187 to 190 Days

            (COPY ATTACHED)

7.         Reappointments-Confidential, Administrative and Non-Instructional

            (COPY ATTACHED)

 

9.         Items Removed from the Agenda:*

Dr. Sara A. Wilcox requested to remove Items 11-E and 11-F, under Construction.  Because of testing schedules, she removed from this agenda Items 3-F and 3-G, under Recognitions, and postponed the recognition of the MCHS and SFHS National Merit Finalists until the May 17, 2005 agenda.

 

10.        Approve Long Range Planning Committee’s Recommendations for Redistricting

Middle School Boundaries Beginning for the 2006/07 School Year with the Addition of a New Middle School (COPY ATTACHED)

Sue Hershey asked if there were any questions on the presentation of the boundaries.  Lori Shekailo wanted the record to reflect that she reminded the Long Range Planning Committee and Board members should re-look at that West Stuart option when a year or two goes by in terms of  if we need to do some readjusting of that boundary when the developments take place.

Dr. David Anderson moved approval of Item 10, Lorie Shekailo seconded, and the motion carried unanimously.

 

11.        Construction:*

Dr. David Anderson moved approval of Item 11 as modified removing Items 11-E and 11-F, Laurie Gaylord seconded, and the motion carried unanimously.

A.         Terminate Contract Between the School Board and Capital Construction for

Warfield Elementary School Building #9 (COPY ATTACHED)

            B.         Approve Shared Access Easement Between the School Board and Palm

Properties (COPY ATTACHED)

C.         Approve Utility Easement to Bell South for J.D. Parker Replacement School-

(COPY ATTACHED)

D.                Approve “Change Order One” for J.D. Parker School of Science, Math and

Technology Replacement School Project.  This is a Deductive Change Order for Direct Purchased Materials. (COPY ATTACHED)

            E.        Approve “Construction Authorization #1 (Partial GMP) for New Middle

                        School AA Project. (REMOVED FROM AGENDA)

F.         Accept Transfer of Tres Belle Property for New Middle School AA-(REMOVED FROM AGENDA)

            G.        Approve Correction to Item 10-C on the April 19 Agenda to Reflect the Use of

AIA /Contract Document B727 Instead of AIA Contract Document B151

(COPY ATTACHED)

 

12.        Finance:*

Dr. David Anderson moved approval of Item 12, Lorie Shekailo seconded, and the motion carried unanimously.

            A.         Approve Purchase Orders / Contracts (COPY ATTACHED)

            B.         Approve General Fund Budget Amendment #05-109 (COPY ATTACHED)

C.         Approve Special Revenue Fund Budget Amendment #05-4209 (COPY ATTACHED)

D.        Approve Food Service Fund Budget Amendment #05-4108 (COPY ATTACHED)

E.        Approve Capital Fund Budget Amendment #05-309 (COPY ATTACHED)

 

13.        Bid Recommendations:*

Laurie Gaylord moved approval of Item 13, Nancy Kline seconded, and the motion carried unanimously.

            A.         Approval to Piggyback

                        1.          St. Lucie County Schools Bid #0307001 for Repair and Refinishing of

 Hardwood Floors (COPY ATTACHED)

            B.         Approval to Renew Piggyback

                        1.          Brevard County School’s Bid #04-007/JO for Outdoor Aluminum

 Seating Contractor (COPY ATTACHED)

 

14.        Approve School Choice Options for the 2005/06 School Year (REMOVED FROM THE AGENDA)

Hank Salzler commented that there was one change from the prior year.   Hidden Oaks Middle School would remain frozen, but he would like to open up choice for Stuart Middle School, Murray Middle School, and Indiantown Middle School as Administrative choice for students who may need a new environment.  Dr. David Anderson had a concern because; he said we just finished balancing the population of the schools.  Hank stated that that was for school year 06/07.  They have not addressed choice for 06/07. This adjustment was for 05/06.  Dr. David Anderson felt that there should always be Administrative authority in special situations instead of just open choice. Dr. Sara A. Wilcox asked to take it off the agenda and bring it back later. Lorie Shekailo made a motion to table the school choice options, Laurie Gaylord seconded, and the motion carried unanimously.   

 

15.        Rule Revisions:*

A.         First Review and Approve Advertising Per APA Section 2000 Program, Section 5000 Students and Section 8000 Operations.  These Policies to Take Effect July 1, 2005

            (COPY ATTACHED)

Tom Elfers, School Board Attorney, commented that if anyone had discrepancies or any problems with the rules to see Dr. Sara A. Wilcox and him, so that any issues could be handled before the meeting.

Dr. David Anderson moved approval of Item 15, Nancy Kline seconded, and the motion carried unanimously.

 

16.        Open to the Board:*

            A.         Discuss and Approve Appointment to Citizens Advisory Committee

(COPY ATTACHED)

Sue Hershey volunteered to be the appointee to the new Citizen’s Advisory Committee.

Lorie Shekailo made a motion to appoint Sue Hershey as the member to the Citizen’s Advisory Committee, Laurie Gaylord seconded, and the motion carried unanimously.

 

                                              

 

 

 

 

 

16.        Open to the Board:* (Con’t)

Katie Gillen

Congratulated South Fork High School’s journalism students for earning first place in the Scholastic Newspaper Awards from The American Scholastic Press Association.  A senior from SFHS was accepted to West Point.  A SFHS student was awarded first place in the General Excellence category for the Palm Beach Post Excellence award. Spectrum High School and the Martin County Transition School received a positive

exit report from Southern Association of Colleges Schools accreditation process.  A Martin County High School Student received the title “Woman of Distinction.”  At the State Conference students from the Skills USA Club won 1st and 3rd place in photography, 2nd place in action skills, and 3rd place in commercial baking.  A MCHS student won the Joe Kordick Youth Character Award. MACOSH, MCHS’s yearbook will be distributed Monday.  There are still some yearbooks available for sale.  She congratulated Jensen Beach High Schoo l’s Lady Falcon Varsity Softball team for winning District 3A and for being the Treasure Lake champions.  JBHS’s first prom will be hosted at Club Med on Saturday May 14th . Students of the Jensen Beach chapter of SkillsUSA returned from the annual Florida SkillsUSA Leadership and Skills State Championships with two gold medals and one silver medal for Architectural Drafting and Mechanical Drafting.

 

Nancy Kline

Attended the Palm Beach Journalism award that a SFHS student won.  She attended Master Board training along with the rest of the board.  It was a very productive meeting.  She felt the Long Range Planning Committee did an excellent job. She hopes when the teachers come back this upcoming school year that teacher’s come on campus with a contract.

 

Lorie Shekailo

Agreed with Nancy.  She also hopes teacher’s start with a new contract.  She attended “Little Shop of Horrors” at SFHS.  She attended Palm Beach Post excellence in journalism luncheon.  She pondered about what outcome Mrs. Pech desired.

 

Tom Elfers

Stated there are statutes stating provisions on hearings for expulsions, discharges, and rules, but there is no free roving license for a Board of Education to hold court on alleged incidents.

 

Dr. David Anderson

Is interested in seeing the teacher’s contract come to fruition.  He felt there was nothing lying out there that should cause a delay.   He enjoyed the Master Board training.

 

Laurie Gaylord

Congratulated Clarissa Cartozian on her position as Pre-K Coordinator/Head Start Director.  She knows that Clarissa will do a great job, since Clarissa is very conscientious and passionate.   SFHS participated in the relay for life last week in Hobe Sound.  Job Tap was successful last week at MCHS.  She attended the town meeting with Lee Weberman, County Commissioner.  Citizens came to hear an update on the new school.  The IB dinner is the 23rd of May. 

 

Sue Hershey

Reminded everyone that May 6th was the plant sale at SFHS.  She addressed a situation that had been investigated a year ago.   She thought it was an injustice to call our brightest students cheaters.  The only person that has the authority to change a grade is the teacher, and that is by state statute.

 

Dr. Sara A. Wilcox

Stated that we have wonderful students.  The scholarship nights were so rewarding.  Students received thousands of dollars, and that was pay day for them.  She attended both programs.  She was impressed with the talent at both high schools, MCHS and SFHS.  She congratulated teachers, students, and administrators, on FCAT writing scores.  She appreciates all our teachers.  This week is Teacher Appreciation Week and they are being recognized at all of their schools.  Dr. Sara A. Wilcox commented, “Without the teachers all of these accolades would not be possible.”  She announced that this Saturday night was Bids for Kids to support our Education Foundation. 

 

Sue Hershey

Displayed the Code of Arms that the board members designed at their Master Board training for the District.  They won the prize for the most creative.            

 

There being no further business to bring before the Board, the meeting was adjourned at 8:41 p.m.

 

_______________________________                    

CHAIR (Sue Hershey)                      

 

_______________________________

SECRETARY (Sara A. Wilcox, Ph.D.)