School Board Meeting March 3, 2008

Regular Meeting March 3, 2008
5:00 PM Midtown Center Meeting Room

Minutes (Amended)

At 5:00 p.m. Chair Edie Brooks called the meeting to order and led the Pledge of Allegiance. Trustees Vern Newby, Sid Fredrickson, Diane Zipperer and Christie Wood were present.

Approval of Minutes:
Motion by Mr. Newby, second by Mrs. Wood to approve the minutes of February 4, 2008 as corrected, passed 5-0.
Motion by Mr. Newby, second by Mr. Fredrickson to make an additional correction to the minutes of February 4, 2008, passed 5-0.
Motion by Mrs. Zipperer, second by Mr. Fredrickson to approve the minutes of February 8, 2008, passed 5-0.
Motion by Mr. Fredrickson, second by Mrs. Zipperer to approve the minutes of February 14, 2008, passed 5-0.
Motion by Mr. Newby, second by Mrs. Wood to approve the minutes of February 26, 2008, passed 5-0.

Approval of the Agenda and Possible Addendum:
Motion by Mr. Fredrickson, second by Mrs. Zipperer to approve the agenda a as presented, passed 5-0.

Mrs. Wood suggested removing the policy requiring street addresses of citizens wishing to address the Board. Motion by Mr. Newby to suspend the policy (only until the policy has been reviewed) requiring addresses of citizens commenting to the Board, second by Mr. Fredrickson, passed 5-0. Addresses are still required on the sign-in sheet.

Identification of Citizens Wishing to Address the Board:
Larry Barnes, Coeur d’Alene, commented about issues with the high school reading material. He read the names from an ad hoc committee list and noted these people say they have never sat together as an ad hoc committee to review materials. Mr. Barnes feels the process was bypassed. Members according to him have never met and this concerns him.
Debbie Morris, Coeur d’Alene, showed Policy 640 flow chart and stated she was shocked to find that the district has bypassed this part of the policy. She also requested the district post the Board Meeting agenda on the websit and allow public to comment at end of meeting making it more family friendly for working patrons. She wants to know the rules and be part of the team but finds it shocking that Board members and administrators are not playing by the rules.
Carrie Chase, Dalton Gardens, has attended book review committee and board meetings, and finds them not parent friendly gatherings. She has volunteered for positions on committees with no response. Her solution for the book issue is to check with other organizations; not necessarily the popular authors. She has gathered a list of many titles and will share with Jim Facciano. The best solution is to work together and read safe books that don’t include graphic stories and scenes.
Gary Finney, Coeur d’Alene, he and his wife wish to address their original request for review; an issue that has not been resolved. Parents should be part of process, suggesting that teachers do not need parental input is equivalent to suggesting that schools do not need their children. Public and parent input are vital to the integrity of the district. He presented additional signed petitions to add to previously submitted petitions.
Milton Schauble, Post Falls, noted it is a pleasure to see parents and grandparents turn out for tonight’s meeting. The School Board should not make these kinds of decisions for our children, rather should be screened by parents.

Coeur d’Alene Education Association Report – President Paula Marano reported about the busy month of February, members worked on educational issues in Boise i.e., alternative pay packages. CEA recently sponsored a dinner for ESP (Educational Support Professionals). She introduced Nancy Larsen, recipient of the Marchand MacNamara Award for Teaching Excellence. Nancy continues to be an active member of CEA even though she currently teaches at Charter Academy. Mrs. Marano shared some inspirational words about extraordinary employees: cooks, librarians, para-professionals, substitutes, maintenance, bus drivers, office managers, custodians, secretaries, etc. Teachers are surrounded by a community of support professionals who are dedicated to children and teachers. She shared a gift with those in attendance tonight and wished Happy Birthday to Dr. Suess.

High School Student Body Reports
Bridge Academy – Jamie and Kim reported that NIC will present a workshop about applying for financial aid and scholarships. Students participated in the Borah Family night.
Project CDA – Jake was recently named Rotary Student of the Month. Josie, also a Student of the Month spoke about “Make the Right Moves” an event for all juniors; a higher education opportunity for all students. This is scheduled for March 25th from 6 to 8 pm featuring representatives from several colleges in Idaho.
CHS – Chloe reported about the upcoming Sunset Dinner Dance – CHS brought home state championships in boys and girls basketball. Students are crocheting hats to donate, ASB and class elections coming up, the Senior Ball is May 10 and a mother daughter tea is on the horizon.
LCHS – Aubrey spoke about Internet Safety information. The Highlighter Dance is scheduled in March. As members of the National Assoc. of Student Councils and through connections that have been made, students have been discussing the misuse of cell phones and other electronic devices. They will provide information to the Board.
Approval of Consent Agenda Items:
A. Personnel
B. Approve Accounts Payable Check List Dated February 26, 2008
C. Approve Affidavit of Habitual Truancy
D. CHS Girl’s Basketball Request
E. CHS Varsity Golf Fundraising/Trip

Coach Dale Poffenroth spoke about the invitation for the girls basketball team. Mr. Newby reiterated that support from the sponsoring organization helped to make this possible. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity and limited numbers of teams are invited. Superintendent Amend asked when the team was invited; it was prior to this year’s first place finish at the state tournament. This trip will be at no expense to the school district, and students will not fundraise door to door.

Coach Bryan Duncan was available to answer questions, and spoke briefly about the upcoming golf trip and efforts to raise funds.

Motion by Mr. Fredrickson, second by Mrs. Wood to approve the consent agenda, passed 5-0.

Consideration of Action/Information Items:

Meet the Board:
Lake City High School Principal John Brumley introduced Chad Biddel (a graduate of LCHS) who teaches Health and coaches soccer. Also introduced were Jim Mauer, social studies and wrestling coach and Rob Ramsey who teaches algebra in the SWS program.
Atlas Elementary Principal Scott Freeby introduced Laurel Myers ALP reading, Byron Wright 5th grade, Liz Thurgood ½ day kindergarten, Karen Griffen first grade, Mark Jerome 4th grade, and Wendy Scott 3rd grade.
Dalton Elementary Principal Lisa Pica introduced Jonnie Williams first grade, and Carly Butell kindergarten.
Hayden Meadows Principal Patty Woodworth introduced Shannon Davies extended day kindergarten, and Katie Palmer 2nd grade.

Nutrition Services Fitness Challenge – Director Ed Ducar reported that the local chapter of the School Nutrition Association meets monthly and many of his staff members are participating in a Fitness Wellness Challenge. They are planning on walking or running as a group in the Spring Dash. On a daily basis, they promote healthy foods and fitness to the students and staff.

Naming the CHS Softball Field – Coeur d’Alene High School Principal Randy Russell asked the Board to consider a request to name the softball field after Larry Schwenke. He spoke of the accomplishments of the teams, and Mr. Schwenke’s relationships with students at CHS, coaches and the community. He started softball at CHS, took the program to a new level, won several state championships, and helped develop youth programs. Mrs. Wood appreciates the gesture and would like to recognize people while they are still with us. Mr. Fredrickson read an excerpt from the request letter. Mr. Newby added that Mr. Schwenke personifies “Mr. Viking”; he was there weekends and holidays and possesses the Viking spirit. He is a tremendous asset to this community. Action will be taken at the next Board meeting.

Elementary Language Arts Adoption – Director of Elementary Curriculum Glenda Armstrong spoke about the timeline. Committee members researched this for two years and narrowed choices to three publisher’s programs, and eventually to two publishers. Neighboring districts were consulted. The recommended program Houghton Miflin aligns with the LETRS program. Comments from Ad-Hoc Committee representatives have been compiled and the proposed materials are currently on 30 day public review at the district office through April 7th. All K-5 staff will be trained in this series. Newly purchased books will have a barcode and will be scanned within our new inventory software program. Mr. Newby asked for the names of the committee members and the Ad Hoc Committee. Mr. Newby asked if any extraneous books would be included that have not been through the review process, Mrs. Armstrong responded there are none. This will come for action in April.

Finance Report – Chief Financial Officer Steve Briggs shared reports for the month of January. He spoke about graphs that represent a snapshot over a 3 year average. The appropriate percentages of salary and benefits have been spent to date. February is the month to get our first official reporting from the State. He is currently working on the projection of revenues/expenditure/allocations. The amended budget and FY 2009 budget will be presented in June. Mrs. Wood asked about impact of the recent property tax glitch; Mr. Briggs responded that the district has not officially been notified. Mrs. Wood suggested a letter written on behalf of the Board to ascertain the impact of this, rather than waiting for a call or letter.

Attendance Zone Proposal/Elementary – Mr. Briggs brought forward a proposal from the Attendance Zone Committee which consists of 15 parent representatives and district personnel. Their goal was to provide study and analysis on how to deal with the chore of balance while assuring that students were appropriately placed. Fourteen hours of meetings were held prior to the public forum; an additional seven hours were held subsequent to the forum. Mr. Briggs publicly thanked the members of the committee; they ultimately made some difficult decisions that affect families. Mr. Briggs introduced committee chair Sam Hunter who spoke about the productive meetings held since October. He thanked the dedicated parents who represented each of the buildings. Mr. Hunter spoke about factors that are looked at when crafting a recommendation. He also shared a map detailing the proposed changes. They attempted to balance enrollment in high growth areas. Included in the recommendation: next years 5th grade students will be allowed to choose their same school or the new school (one year only) and this does not include same for siblings. Mr. Newby asked if Hoffman area students will be able to remain at Dalton and they will. Mrs. Wood thanked Pam Pratt who thanked Hazel Bauman for the approved request to increase student capacity at Dalton Elementary. Mrs. Wood noted that her son attended several schools within our district and had a great experience at each one. Action will be taken at the April Board meeting.

Attendance Zone Proposal/Middle School – Mr. Hunter spoke of a proposal to shift students from Woodland to Lakes to alleviate some of the overcrowding at Woodland. A subcommittee looked at 8 to 10 proposals. Fifty-one students will be moved per this proposal. They attempted to balance enrollment in high growth areas. Next years 8th graders will be allowed to choose their same school or new school (one year only) and this does not include siblings. Mr. Fredrickson, Board liaison to this committee noted the difficulties faced within this challenge. Mr. Amend thanked Sam Hunter and Steve Briggs. He commended committee members who made themselves available to meet with concerned parents after the public forum. Mr. Briggs spoke about the Sorensen overlay and the determination of a homeschool for families who cannot or may not attend the magnet school. This will be included in the upcoming recommendation. Action will be taken at the April Board meeting.

School Trustee Election – Board Clerk Lynn Towne announced that the school trustee election will be held on May 20, 2008 for Zones 4 and 5. The deadline to file a declaration of candidacy is 5:00 p.m. on April 18, 2008. Candidates must be qualified school district electors who reside in that zone.

Call for Committee Reports – Mr. Newby spoke about the upcoming levy campaign and the Levy Steering committee noting anyone wishing to participate may contact the district office. The levy is an important issue and will define the direction of the district.

Superintendent’s Report – Mr. Amend reported about a variety of music groups participating in contests and awards received by our students. DECA and future business leaders are in prime time of participation at state and national level. Ms. Bauman noted some facts about the levy campaign: staff members are involved outside of the contract day and funds to run the campaign are from private and business donations. Meetings are held off site and outside of the school day.

Board Comments and Information – Mrs. Wood asked about Board correspondence and suggested that signatures of Board members should appear below that of the superintendent. Mrs. Brooks stated that when appropriate, information will be disseminated to the Board. Mr. Newby requested that all correspondence be shared with Board. Mr. Newby encouraged efforts to find solutions to parking congestion at Bryan Elementary. He also addressed safe walking routes for students and efforts by the city to clear some of these areas.

The meeting recessed at 7:08 p.m. and reconvened at 7:20 p.m.

Motion by Mr. Newby, second by Mr. Fredrickson for Executive Session: Idaho Code 67-2345, Subsection ; (c) to conduct deliberations concerning labor negotiations or to acquire an interest in real property which is not owned by a public agency; Roll Call Vote: Brooks, Newby, Wood, Fredrickson, Zipperer each “yes”.

The meeting returned to open session and adjourned at 8:28 p.m.

Edie Brooks, Chair
Board of Trustees

Lynn M. Towne, Clerk
Board of Trustees

Summary Statement of Executive Session
At 7:20 pm, in accordance with Idaho Code 67-2345, Subsection (c) to conduct deliberations concerning labor negotiations or to acquire an interest in real property which is not owned by a public agency.

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