Governing Board Meeting

FAIRFIELD-SUISUN UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT FAIRFIELD, CALIFORNIA October 11, 2001 REGULAR MEETING A regular meeting of the Governing Board of the Fairfield-Suisun Unified School District was held in the Council Chambers of the Fairfield City Hall, 1000 Webster Street, Fairfield, California, on Thursday, October 11, 2001. Members in Attendance: Abraham “Abe” Bautista, Gary Falati, Anne Griffin, Ophelia Harvey, Ivan Meadows, Bob Pattillo, Kathy Sawyer Shishido, and Sharon Tucker, Superintendent. Members Absent: None ROLL CALL OPEN SESSION CLOSED SESSION The Governing Board convened in Open Session at 6:00 p.m. The Governing Board convened in Closed Session at 6:01 p.m. to discuss personnel items, negotiations, student discipline, and existing litigation. The meeting was called to order at 7:15 p.m. by Mr. Falati. Ms. Griffin led those in attendance in the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag of the United States of America. CALL TO ORDER PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE TO THE FLAG OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA REPORT OF ACTION TAKEN DURING CLOSED SESSION ADOPTION OF AGENDA Dr. Tucker announced that the Governing Board took no action during Closed Session. Dr. Tucker asked that Item IV-C-2 be removed from the agenda and that Items IV-D-1 and IV-B-4 be removed from the Consent Calendar for discussion. Mr. Falati stated that a Public Hearing will be held on Item IV-C-4. ** Motion was made by Dr. Harvey, seconded by Mr. Pattillo, and carried to approve the adoption of the agenda as amended. Motion was made by Dr. Harvey, seconded by Ms. Sawyer Shishido, and carried to approve the following Consent Calendar items: 1. minutes of the regular meeting on September 13, 2001 2. student expulsion case nos. 1-0102 through 3-0102 APPROVAL OF CONSENT CALENDAR ** Fairfield-Suisun Unified School District Board Minutes October 11, 2001 APPROVAL OF CONSENT CALENDAR (continued) 3. 2001-02 Crystal Middle and Academy School Plans for Special Projects 4. Federal Class Size Reduction Program Addendum of the Local Improvement Plan 5. out-of-state travel for the International Baccalaureate Program fall 2001 staff training 6. acceptance of gifts to district 7. personnel action report 0102-5b (classified hires, leaves, retirements, and resignations) 8. Resolution No. 17-0102 – Authorizing Instructor to Teach Outside of Credential Authorization STUDENT REPRESENTATIVES Reports regarding various activities at the high schools were presented by Steven Wolf (Rodriguez), Crystal Ellis (Sem Yeto), and Stephen Dean (Armijo). Ms. Sawyer Shishido asked why the student reported that Rodriguez High School students did not have books the first two weeks of school. Cheryl Hansen, Rodriguez High School Principal, stated that the books were ordered and received by the district on time; however, they were not delivered to the school site due to construction. She explained that when the books were delivered to the school it took two weeks to barcode the them for distribution. INTRODUCTION OF FAIRFIELD-SUISUN UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT STUDENT OF THE MONTH FOR OCTOBER 2001 SUPERINTENDENT’S REPORT Kristen Crookes (Amy Blanc Elementary School), Fairfield-Suisun Unified School District Student of the Month for October 2001, was introduced. Ms. Griffin presented Kristen with a medallion and a certificate of honor on behalf of the Governing Board. Angie McKinsey, Amy Blanc Elementary Principal, shared some of Kristen’s accomplishments. Dr. Tucker announced that Mike Keisling, Armijo High School teacher, was selected as Solano County Teacher of the Year. Mr. Keisling stated that it is an honor for him to represent the district. He said that the Solano County Office of Education has submitted his application for the California State Teacher of the Year. He explained that five teachers will receive the State award, but only one name will be submitted for National Teacher of the Year. 2 Fairfield-Suisun Unified School District Board Minutes October 11, 2001 SUPERINTENDENT’S REPORT (continued) Dr. Harvey noted that Fairfield-Suisun Unified School District teachers have received the Solano County Teacher of the Year award for four out of the past nine years. Dr. Tucker announced that the community is invited to the Rodriguez High School dedication on Saturday, November 3rd at 10:00 a.m. She thanked the Ornamental Horticulture students at Armijo High School for the silk flower arrangement. She announced that the community can contact Armijo High School to purchase silk, dried, and fresh flower arrangements that the students sell as a fundraiser. Dr. Tucker shared that a Promotion/Retention Brochure has been developed to explain the district procedures. The brochure will be sent to all parents in the district. She announced that October 12th is Pledge Across America Day. All schools have been asked to participate by reciting the Pledge of Allegiance at their school flagpole. She invited the community to join the district office staff at 10:45 a.m. A flag will be flown that has been donated by Omaha Woodman Life Insurance Society Lodge 369. FACILITIES SUBCOMMITTEE Dr. Meadows reported that the Board Facilities Subcommittee has met with staff and the district’s attorneys to discuss the details in creating Community Facilities District 6 (CFD). He said that CFD 6 will be similar in structure to CFD 5. Dr. Meadows announced that a special Board meeting will be held on Tuesday, October 16, 2001 to begin the process for developing CFD 6. He believes that the district should have a school bond election in March 2002. Mr. Falati asked if the community will be involved in the discussion of a school bond. Dr. Meadows said that the Governing Board as well as the community will be involved in the discussion. Mr. Falati asked when the State would announce the possible placement of a school bond on the March ballot. Dr. Tucker said October 12, 2001. that the announcement should be made on ADOPTION OF STRATEGIC GOALS, 2001-01 SCHOOL YEAR The Strategic Goals for 2001-2002 have an emphasis on implementing a standards-based curriculum in all schools and classrooms. A new goal to foster improved communications with the community and employees has been added. ** Motion was made by Ms. Sawyer Shishido, seconded by Ms. Griffin, and carried to approve the adoption of Strategic Goals for the 2001-2002 school year. 3 Fairfield-Suisun Unified School District Board Minutes October 11, 2001 RESOLUTION NO. 19-0102 DECLARING SUPPORT FOR THE CITY OF FAIRFIELD IN HONORING VETERANS OF FOREIGN WARS ON NOVEMBER 11, 2001 REQUEST TO SPEAK Mr. Pattillo stated that the City of Fairfield passed a Resolution supporting a Veterans’ Day Parade on November 11, 2001. He asked for support and that the schools in the Fairfield-Suisun Unified School District support and participate in the parade. Frank Kelley, Chairman for Chartered Veterans’ Post and Chapters, stated that his organization, in partnership with the City of Fairfield Community Services Department, is sponsoring the Veterans’ Day Parade. He announced that invitations have been mailed to local County dignitaries and entry forms to local organizations. Fairfield, Vanden, and Armijo High School bands have been contacted and as well as the Commanders of the ROTC programs. Mr. Kelley said that Fairfield High has returned an entry form for the parade. He announced that the theme for the parade is “America – United We Stand.” Those interested in volunteering, participating, or giving donations may contact Marie Jensen-Lillemoe at the Fairfield Community Services Department at 428-7538. ** Motion was made by Mr. Pattillo, seconded by Dr. Meadows, and carried to adopt Resolution No. 19-0102 Declaring Support for the City of Fairfield in Honoring Veterans of Foreign Wars on November 11, 2001. Mr. Falati asked that Dr. Tucker assign a staff member to work with the community and schools on the parade. Dr. Tucker stated that Bill Luna, Director of Administrative Services, is working with the schools and the community. REQUEST FOR OUT-OFSTATE TRAVEL FOR GOVERNING BOARD MEMBERS AND STAFF TO ATTEND NSBA TECHNOLOGY+ LEARNING ** CONFERENCE IN ATLANTA, GA Dr. Tucker announced that the following representatives are recommended to attend the conference: Dr. Harvey, Ms. Griffin, Bruce Chmieleski (Director of Information Technology), Rick Stevens (Coordinator of Educational Technology), and Linda Johnson (Sem Yeto Site Technology Coordinator). Motion was made by Dr. Harvey, seconded by Ms. Sawyer Shishido, and carried to approve the request for out-of-state travel for Governing Board members and staff to attend the NSBA Technology + Conference. 4 Fairfield-Suisun Unified School District Board Minutes October 11, 2001 AUTHORIZATION TO FILE AN APPLICATION FOR FUNDING WITH THE OFFICE OF PUBLIC SCHOOL CONSTRUCTION FOR CRESCENT REPLACEMENT PROJECT Robert Pierce, Facilities Planner, stated that staff requests authorization to file an application for replacement of Crescent Elementary School. He noted that matching district funds for the State Facility Hardship Funding of approximately $7.5 million must be available by May 2003 to fund the project. Dr. Meadows asked if the State reserves the funding for the district match. Mr. Pierce responded that the State will reserve the funding, but the district must have matching funds to begin construction by May 2003 or risk losing state funding. He said that construction may begin as soon as district matching funds are available. ** Motion was made by Ms. Sawyer Shishido, seconded by Dr. Harvey, and carried to authorize staff to file an application for funding with the Office of Public School Construction for the Crescent Replacement School Project. RESOLUTION OF INTENT NO. 13-0102 TO LEASE A PORTION OF FALLS EDUCATIONAL FACILITY The public hearing for Resolution of Intent No. 13-0102 to lease a portion of Falls Educational Facility opened at 8:01 p.m. There being no response, the public hearing closed at 8:02 p.m. Mr. Pierce stated that this item will be an action item at the next Governing Board meeting. He said that Spectrum has requested a lease agreement for four rooms at Falls Educational Facility. He noted that the Independent Program Study is supportive and that half of the students in Spectrum’s program are Fairfield-Suisun Unified School District students. Dr. Harvey asked about the number of staff and students that will occupy the campus. Karen Hanson, Director of Special Education, stated that Spectrum’s program will use one room for an office/conference room and the three rooms will be classrooms for a maximum of six students each at various age levels. Dr. Meadows asked if Spectrum is aware that the agreement would be a one-year agreement. Mr. Pierce stated that Spectrum is aware that it is a one-year agreement. This item will be brought to the Board on November 15, 2001 for action. ** Motion was made by Dr. Harvey, seconded by Ms. Griffin, and carried to approve Resolution of Intent No. 13-0102 to Lease a Portion of Falls Educational Facility. 5 Fairfield-Suisun Unified School District Board Minutes October 11, 2001 APPROVAL OF PERSONNEL ACTION REPORT 0102-5A (CERTIFICATED HIRES, LEAVES, RETIREMENTS, AND RESIGNATIONS) ** Bob Howell, Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources, noted the following correction: Employment of Certificated Personnel Roberta O’Brien – The date of August 4, 2001 should be September 7, 2001. Motion was made by Dr. Harvey, seconded by Ms. Sawyer Shishido and carried to approve Personnel Action Report 0102-5a (certificated) as presented. Cherie Mopas, Suisun City resident, stated that she received a draft of the district evaluation forms for the approval of books. She expressed her concern about the supplemental book form. She suggested that it note if the book is age appropriate, if it is sexually explicit or graphic, or if there are references to supernatural occult events. Ms. Mopas thanked staff and the Governing Board for all of their hard work. George Guynn, Jr., Suisun City resident, stated that he agrees with Ms. Mopas’ suggestions. He suggested posting the book list of the top 100 challenged materials so that parents can see if the material rates on the list. He suggested listing page numbers for parents to reference where the possible objectionable sections are in the books. He asked what method would be used to ensure site-to-site communication. Eric Christen, Member of Coalition for Fair Employment in Construction, shared that Vallejo City Unified School District had only six interested bidders on a construction project, but construction has been delayed because only one bidder qualified under their Fair Employment Policy. He asked the Board to consider Vallejo’s experience in regards to district projects. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION INFORMATION ITEMS The following agenda items were presented for information only. These items will be brought back for action at the next regular meeting. 1. Out-of-State Travel to Louisville, Kentucky for the National Honor Society’s 9th National Leadership Conference on November 8-12, 2001 2. Resolution No. ___-0102 – Adoption of the Gann Limit 3. Student Teaching Agreement Between Chapman University and the Fairfield-Suisun Unified School District for June 1, 2001 through June 30, 2002. 6 Fairfield-Suisun Unified School District Board Minutes October 11, 2001 RESOLUTION NO. __-0102 – DECLARING NOVEMBER 2001 AS NATIVE AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH IN THE FAIRFIELDSUISUN UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT Dr. Harvey stated that each year she has asked for a list of activities from the school sites for special school months. She suggested that the district develop curriculum to celebrate these months that can be used throughout the district. She believes that passing a resolution is insufficient. Dr. Meadows stated that he agrees with Dr. Harvey and he would like plans formulated so that the resolutions approved and supported by the Board have more meaning and value in the classroom. Ms. Griffin thanked Dr. Harvey for her comments and stated that resolutions for special months need to be supported constructively in the classroom. RESULTS OF WRITING ASSESSMENT – SPRING 2001 Jean Fitzgibbons, Director of Assessment and Accountability, presented information on the writing assessment spring 2001 results. She stated that spring 2001 was the first time that all students in K-8 were assessed. She said that STAR Writing was used for grades 4 and 7, HEM Prompt for grades 3, 5, 6, and 8, and district prompt for grades K, 1, and 2. Dr. Fitzgibbons stated that writing modes are based on state standards and the writing assessment is based on rubrics. She presented statistics on the percentage of proficiency in the district, which included the California High School Exit Exam scores. She announced the 2002 writing assessment dates. Dr. Meadows asked about what is being offered for a student who is found to be nonproficient. Dr. Fitzgibbons stated that during the 2000-01 school year writing programs were piloted and the district purchased a program for each grade level to be used as an instructional tool. She said that Jean Veltema, Literacy Coordinator, is helping teachers bring students to proficiency. Dr. Meadows asked if parents could be provided information that will help them evaluate their child’s schoolwork so that they can help identify concerns early in their child’s education. Dr. Fitzgibbons stated that anchor papers, which are products of student writing that are representative of each score, can be given to parents. She said that Ms. Veltema is developing new anchor papers for the teachers to use and the State is releasing anchor papers for grades 4-7. Dr. Meadow suggested placing the anchor papers on the district Web page. Dr. Fitzgibbons said that she will work with Bruce Chmieleski, Director of Information Technology, to put the anchor papers on the district Web page. 7 Fairfield-Suisun Unified School District Board Minutes October 11, 2001 REPORT ON DISTRICT’S SPECIAL EDUCATION PROGRAM Karen Hanson, Director of Special Education, presented information on the areas of need in the Special Education Department and the efforts to improve the program. She stated that there is a lack of curriculum consistency in the district. She said that the department has addressed reading, math, spelling, and handwriting. The following curriculum has been chosen:  Reading: SRA Reading Curriculum, Hampton-Brown Phonics, Friends, and Read Naturally  Math: Touch Math for grades K-2 and Saxon Math for grades 3-12  Handwriting: Zaner-Blosser and Handwriting Without Tears  Spelling: Words Our Way and Morphology  Written Language: Write Source. Ms. Hanson stated that students are monitored for progress with interim assessments, SAT 9, and progress on goals and objectives. She said that special education goals and objectives should be standards based. She noted the following ongoing concerns:  Instructional assistants current average day is 3.5 hours. Staff recommends extending the workday to 5 hours.  Over identification of African Americans – A reduction has occurred at the elementary level due to intervention programs  Lack of fully credentialed teachers. Ms. Hanson said that currently, 11.4% of the student population is identified for special education, a decline from 13% in 1999 partially due to early identification and prevention. She stated that the district has experienced an increase in the use of one-on-one instructional assistants for students with intensive needs. Dr. Harvey questioned the use of one-on-one instructional assistants for students with discipline problems. Ms. Griffin asked about the use of licensed practical nurses (LPN). Ms. Hanson said that LPN’s can assist students who require medical assistance. The reimbursement for those students who medically qualify for Medi-Cal is higher than for instructional assistants. Mr. Pattillo asked about the length of time needed to screen a student for the special education services. Ms. Hanson stated that there are many additional requirements since 1977 that have increased the time to screen students. Ms. Sawyer Shishido asked if these students are accountable for the High School Exit Exam. 8 Fairfield-Suisun Unified School District Board Minutes October 11, 2001 REPORT ON DISTRICT’S SPECIAL EDUCATION PROGRAM (continued) Ms. Hanson stated that some testing accommodations are allowed, but all special education students are required to take the exam to receive a diploma. Those who do not pass the exit exam can receive a certificate. Dr. Harvey asked if the district is responsible for special education students until they reach the age of 22. Ms. Hanson said that the district is responsible for special education students until the age of 22 if they are eligible for the assistance. She said that post-high school programs and Transition to the Work programs can assist these students. She noted that the community colleges and the adult school have classes for these students. Dr. Meadows asked about other districts’ special education enrollment percentages and their instructional assistant hours. Ms. Hanson said that most districts are above 10% in enrollment and the average instructional assistant workday is 5-6 hours per day. Dr. Meadows asked who completes the paperwork for special education student assessments, etc. Ms. Hanson replied that the special education teachers and psychologists complete the paperwork. She emphasized the importance of continuing intervention programs at the elementary and middle school levels to lessen the need for students to be tested and placed in special education. REQUEST TO SPEAK Linda James, Special Education Teacher, shared that she is optimistic about the recent changes in the Special Education Program including the materials, training, and assessment tools. She said that it takes approximately twenty hours to complete assessment paperwork for one student. She recommends the district stipend noted by administration be negotiated for special education teachers. Mr. Falati asked if stipends must be negotiated with the bargaining units. Dr. Tucker stated that stipends are a negotiated item. She said that several special education teachers transferred into regular education classrooms when the class size reduction program began. She stated that the district should look at ways to attract those teachers back into special education. Mr. Falati shared that he is impressed with Ms. Hanson’s ability to lead the department as well as her enthusiasm, commitment, and dedication. Ms. Hanson shared that she appreciates the support from the district office staff, the Governing Board, and the Superintendent. 9 Fairfield-Suisun Unified School District Board Minutes October 11, 2001 REPORT ON DISTRICT’S SPECIAL EDUCATION PROGRAM (continued) OUT-OF-STATE TRAVEL TO SALEM, OREGON FOR THE SODEXHO HOSPITALITY CERTIFICATION PROGRAM Dr. Harvey suggested offering special education teachers a regular education class every five years because special education is so intense. Frank Kardos, Coordinator of Post-Secondary Preparation, stated that he will visit a partnership district that is providing a program for students to earn a culinary certificate. The program is recognized by the National Restaurant Association. He stated that Sodexho has agreed to work in partnership with the district in developing a program that students can learn culinary skills as well as marketing, health, etc. This partnership affords the opportunity to opening a café. Mr. Falati asked the date of the visitation. Mr. Kardos said that the visitation will be on December 6, 2001. RESOLUTION DECLARING GOALS AND POLICIES OF THE FAIRFIELD-SUISUN UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT WITH RESPECT TO THE USE OF THE MELLO-ROOS COMMUNITY FACILITIES ACT OF 1982 Mr. Pierce presented a draft resolution declaring the Governing Board’s intent to eliminate future Community Facilities District (CFD) annexations and creations. He stated that legal counsel has been consulted and recommended approval of a resolution rather than development of a Board policy. He noted that SB 50 authorizes the district to collect Level III fees when lawful. He noted that Proposition 1 funding expires in 2002. Ms. Griffin asked if the City of Fairfield had expressed an opinion about the district collecting its own developer fees. Mr. Pierce stated that the district has been in contact with the city regarding the collection of a developer fee. He said that the city is notifying the district before issuing building permits. The city has agreed with the amount to be collected and has been collecting the appropriate amount for homes that are not in a CFD. Dr. Harvey thanked the Facilities Department staff for their work on the Resolution. She asked for additional language regarding the intent for the potential to establish CFD No. 6. She also asked for additional language that no additional debt be levied for bonds against CFD No. 5. Mr. Bautista arrived at 9:22 p.m. REQUEST TO SPEAK George Guynn, Jr., Suisun City resident, said that he believed a developer fee for as much as $22,000 may not affect sales. He asked if the developer fee amount will be adequate to fund growth or will the district still consider a bond. He suggested that Board members who live in MelloRoos communities should exclude themselves from voting on related issues. 10 Fairfield-Suisun Unified School District Board Minutes October 11, 2001 RESOLUTION DECLARING GOALS AND POLICIES OF THE FAIRFIELD-SUISUN UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT WITH RESPECT TO THE USE OF THE MELLO-ROOS COMMUNITY FACILITIES ACT OF 1982 (continued) REVISED JOB DESCRIPTION FOR DATABASE ADMINISTRATOR/ ANALYST PROPOSED JOB DESCRIPTION FOR CLERK/DISPATCHER Dr. Meadows asked for clarification on the Level III fee. Mr. Pierce stated that Level III fees can be collected when the State runs out of funds for new school construction. Robert Howell, Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources, stated that this item adjusts the Data Base Administrator/Analyst position. Dr. Howell presented the job description for Clerk/Dispatcher, which was developed to support a recently approved reclassification of an employee in the Transportation Department. He stated that the position would be on Lane 14 on the California Schools Employees Association (CSEA) Office/Technical/Business Services Salary Schedule. He stated that the financial implication will be approximately $1,000. Pat Calvert, Coordinator of Human Resources, presented the following employment statistics:  Of 1200 teachers in the district, 87.5 % possess and are teaching in their credentialed area.  175 new teachers, of which 54% have clear credentials and 46% are on emergency permits or waivers.  Shortage areas for credentialing: math, science music and special education.  Several of the teachers working with a waiver or permit possess a clear credential in other areas, but are teaching in high need areas.  There are more male teachers this year, but proportionally the percentage is the same as last year.  There are currently 13 certificated vacancies. Mr. Bautista asked if there are proportional gains in the area of minorities. Ms. Calvert stated that there is no significant change from last year. Dr. Tucker stated that there are specialized trips planned for minority recruitment. UPDATE ON DISTRICT STAFFING 11 Fairfield-Suisun Unified School District Board Minutes October 11, 2001 UPDATE ON DISTRICT STAFFING (continued) Mr. Pattillo requested that the recruiting team give a presentation to the Board. Dr. Meadows stated that the Board should discuss how to attract teachers in areas of special need. REVIEW OF BOARD AGENDA TIMELINE A special Board Meeting for facilities financing issues will be held on October 16, 2001 at 7:00 p.m. with Closed Session beginning at 6:30 p.m. to discuss potential litigation. CSBA Governing Board Workshop for Human Resources, and finance will be held on October 19 and 20, 2001. BOARD MEMBER INFORMATION Mr. Pattillo shared that he attended a Solano Transit meeting where Mr. Bautista was nominated for an award. The awards night will be November 16, 2001. Ms. Griffin shared that she attended the Solano County Office of Education meeting where Mike Keisling received his Teacher of the Year award. She said that Mr. Keisling was gracious and a good representative of the district. She attended the CSBA workshop on integration for the Masters in Governance Program. Ms. Griffin invited the community to attend the Rodriguez High School dedication and grand opening on November 3, 2001 at 10:00 a.m. and lasting throughout the day. Dr. Harvey shared that she is giving information from the California School Boards Association (CSBA) to Mr. Falati. Mr. Bautista shared that he attended the meeting at the Solano County Office of Education and the ribbon cutting ceremony for the new bike path in Vallejo. He said that he reviewed a transportation study that plans transportation to areas of low income in order to provide better service for those communities. He suggested that those involved in the study contact school districts to review the areas of high lunch program eligibility. Ms. Sawyer Shishido shared that she met with Marianna Harris, new Assistant Principal at Cleo Gordon. Ms. Sawyer Shishido is impressed with Ms. Harris’ student and parent interactions, her energy and enthusiasm. She shared the result of a study, indicating that 40% of the Latino community’s children are medically uninsured. She asked about the district’s involvement in assisting these families. Dr. Tucker stated that the district is involved in insurance outreach efforts, which include mailings. 12 Fairfield-Suisun Unified School District Board Minutes October 11, 2001 BOARD MEMBER INFORMATION (continued) Mr. Falati shared that he has received many compliments from the community about the new administrators in the district. He stated that the district might inquire about a partnership with the cities to build a complex in which city and district entry-level employees can be assisted by a lower living expense in lieu of a stipend. ** There being no further business, the meeting adjourned at 9:45 p.m. ADJOURNMENT Approved: ___________________________________ Kathy Sawyer Shishido, Clerk Attest: ___________________________________ Gary Falati, President mea 13