Regular Board Meeting December 3, 2007

Regular Meeting December 3, 2007
5:00 PM Midtown Center Meeting Room

Minutes

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

Approval of Minutes:
Motion by Mr. Newby, second by Mrs. Zipperer to approve the minutes of November 5, 2007 as presented, passed 3-0.
Motion by Mrs. Zipperer, second by Mr. Newby to approve the minutes of November 6, 2007 as presented, passed 3-0.
Motion by Mr. Newby, second by Mrs. Zipperer to approve the minutes of November 19, 2007 as presented, passed 3-0.

Approval of the Agenda and Possible Addendum – Motion by Mr. Newby, second by Mrs. Zipperer to approve the agenda as presented. Chair Brooks noted an addition of a Board Recognition. Motion by Mr. Newby, second by Mrs. Zipperer to approve the agenda as amended, passed 3-0. The original motion passed 3-0.

Identification of Citizens Wishing to Address the Board
Nancy Mueller extended an invitation on behalf of Winton Elementary to join a Pearl Harbor Day Assembly on Friday at 2:00 p.m.

Coeur d’Alene Education Association Report – Nancy Mueller, CEA Vice President reported about the upcoming legislative session where ISTARS tops the list for discussion. A meeting was held with the IEA President who presented an alternate plan. Conversations have started among educators and they hope to collaborate to a good plan. The Legislative SPEAK meeting was held recently at Project CDA where many issues were discussed; among them, the mentoring program. Former teacher Raina Bohanek provided an overview of this program. Mrs. Mueller said they are hopeful that the transition months ahead will be all inclusive, noting that change is hard but can be handled if all parties are respected and honored for their ideas. CEA leadership will work closely with the transition team as changes are put into place. She presented gifts of “Hope” to Board members and administrators.

High School Student Body Reports
Project CDA: Jake reported about the recent Thanksgiving dinner. Students recently catered a Rotary event and offered tours to members. Jeff spoke about district parent nights and encouraged students and parents to attend. An upcoming parent night in January will include discussion about scholarships. Meetings are held on a monthly basis.
LCHS: Senior Class President Mike reported that Student Council members attended their fall conference in Boise where each student council gave presentations. Basketball season is in full swing, plans are in the works for Fight for the Fish, January 11. They are focused on increasing awareness for drug free clubs; peer to peer mentoring is offered in light of bullying.
CHS: ASB President Hayden stated that students are working on their senior class paper relating to senior project. The Winter Formal, sponsored by the junior class is this weekend. Students also attended state student council. Senior Ball will be held in May at the Resort. ASB officers are hosting an event on Martin Luther King day working with human rights center.

Bridge Academy: Mike spoke about their student led parent conferences. NIC presented recently about dual enrollment and U of I presented information about GIS systems and career options.
Vince talked about Thanksgiving dinner, Amy talked about decorating at Beehive homes for the holidays and Mallory reported about volunteering with Idaho Reads program.
Approval of Consent Agenda Items:
A. Personnel
B. Approve Accounts Payable Check List Dated 11-28-07
C. Approve Affidavit of Habitual Truancy
D. Award Paper Bid to Costco
E. ADA Adjustment
F. Easement Request at Hayden Center Site

Motion by Mrs. Zipperer, second by Mr. Newby to approve the consent agenda as presented, passed 3-0.

Mrs. Wood arrived at 5:40 p.m.

Consideration of Action/Information Items:

Board Recognition: Mike Emory, Science Teacher at Woodland Middle School was named the 2007 Outstanding Earth Science Teacher for the State of Idaho. Principal Jim Lien spoke about Mike’s positive attitude and how he gets students excited to learn about science. He is also a leader in technology. Chair Edie Brooks and Assistant Superintendent Hazel Bauman presented Mike with a plaque.

Meet the Board: Bryan Elementary Principal Joel Palmer introduced new staff members: Amber Orr, 4th grade teacher, Robin Munkoff, 2nd grade teacher, and John Johnson, special education/resource teacher.
Skyway Elementary Principal Kathy Liverman introduced new staff members: Monique English Kindergarten & Assistant Principal, Janet Ackerman, 5th grade teacher, Natasha Wagner, 4th grade teacher, Ann Audette, Kindergarten teacher, Jodi Johnson, 4th grade teacher, and Jackie Conner, Title 1 teacher.

Literature Guidelines Update – Jim Facciano, Curriculum Director updated the Board about the progress of this committee; charged with writing these guidelines. These guidelines will better define the use of literature especially in the secondary grades. He shared a draft of the materials selection philosophy and work done on the first two criteria: 1) connection to educational objectives outlined in the district curriculum at each grade level, and 2) relevance to student needs. Mr. Newby asked how age appropriateness is determined. Mrs. Brooks asked if criteria 1 and 2 are nearing finality? Mr. Facciano responded that they are. Mrs. Brooks asked about a potential timeline regarding criteria #3 “opt-out process”. Rosie Astorquia, Secondary Education Director spoke to criteria items 5 & 6 looking at reading strategies in the areas of reading aloud and silent sustained reading. There has been good discussion with committee members comprised of middle and high school reading and language arts teachers as they identify best practices in reading classrooms. The committee will meet again next week and will look at additional research, their goal is to have a statement of effective reading strategies by mid-January. Mr. Newby asked how titles could be added. Mr. Facciano said that teachers generally propose titles after contacts with colleagues or through professional connections. Mr. Newby asked if patrons could suggest titles; possibly add methods by which titles may be suggested and propose a process. Within that process, titles would be looked at by teaching staff and compared to curriculum. Mrs. Brooks asked for a follow up report by February/March.

Novel Recommendation – Mr. Facciano pointed out a revision to the original recommendation for both titles: I Know Why The Caged Bird Sings and Fallen Angels. Following are comments received:

Marcella Tappis was previously a substitute teacher and is currently teaching in a private school. She likes that students will have the option to choose novels. This opens discussion about minorities but as educators, is this our best effort? She quoted some sentences from the books in question and asked if other options exist. If these words were spoken in public, they would be considered offensive.
Eric Louis teaches at Coeur d’Alene High School, is a former Teacher of the Year, and a National Board Certified teacher. Maya Angelou is one of two poets who have been asked to speak at presidential inaugurations. Her book is very important for females; her story speaks to women who need to read it. Teachers do not force students to read objectionable materials. Many students have opted out of this book and others. Writing, reading and thinking help students grow when they are asked to think critically. Literature provides this opportunity. A recent newspaper blog favors intellectual freedom; this book is not devoid of content.
Karen Estes Canfield Librarian said that parents and students value and expect a wide variety of books; she encourages parents to make the decision about what is appropriate for their students. Parents request books that might be objectionable to other parents. One group of parents may not decide for all parents; the rights of all parents must be respected. She supports the literature guidelines and two novels being considered tonight. Protect the rights of parents and students to make a choice and allow educators to do their job without interference.
Paula Conley Reading teacher at Canfield and former Idaho Teacher of the Year. Access to print literature is the cornerstone of our democracy. To encourage critical thinking sometimes requires exposure to controversial materials. All stakeholders’ needs are being met by the opt-out proposal.
Jody Hiltenbrand 8th grade Language Arts teacher at Canfield commends parents who are involved in the education of children. Does this group have the right to limit choices for all students which limits conversations? The beliefs of the few should not dictate the beliefs of the many.
Jana Higbee CHS English teacher spoke of her love of books. If a book made her think, the author did their job. The lesson in Caged Bird is about human suffering and the Board should allow the titles in question to remain a choice.
Meghan Cuniff read from an article about this as a First Amendment issue. The article referenced that challenges such as these end up being a lot of fuss with no real changes, because policies in place are sensible.
Mary Jo Finney shared some of the text from a book her nephew read. She read from a letter written by parents who were not aware that students could opt out of a selected title. She has repeatedly asked to attend the Literature Guidelines Committee meeting only to be turned down.
Debbie Morris supports having meetings where community members can dialogue with staff. It has been impossible to review the guidelines and she doesn’t believe the committee membership to be voluntary. In reference to the minority report, the Board must review all information submitted, keeping in mind the previous petition and Mica Grange Resolution. She spoke to student council members tonight about a pathfinder mentor program with the intent to implement a “dare not to swear” program.
Rick Seward reiterated the resolution submitted by the Mica Grange – these books are garbage and not needed to educate our students. He asked the Board to reject the proposed recommendation.
Ron Visielmeyer asked the Board to reject the recommendation. This language would not have been tolerated when he was a student. If parents want this kind of information for their students, they can purchase these books on their own.

Nancy Heffter Canfield/Woodland Library – These are well known authors and top recommended books. It’s important to offer the opportunity to opt-out. Parents have the responsibility to talk to the teacher if issues arise, and students have never been forced to read anything inappropriate.
Darla Finney is bothered by this difference of opinion being considered an interruption. Books available in the library or in classroom should be discussed. Topics don’t have to be covered in such a dirty-sounding way. Don’t be angry at parents who have a different point of view.

Mrs. Wood noted that this process has been an eye opener for the Board. Much has been learned and staff and administrators addressed some issues, such as reading out-loud. The Board represents all tax payers, and will honor everyone’s values. Mrs. Zipperer added that she appreciated hearing the opinions of parents and teachers through the past few months, and it is unfortunate that discussions have centered on a few passages. Books contain valuable information, more than these passages. It would be a disservice to pull these titles from all students as long as we incorporate an excellent opt-out program. Mr. Newby remarked about the difficulty of this issue. He read through all information and personally doesn’t care for some of the passages however, the books are at the right intellectual level with respect to literary gains for students. He asked about the reading lists from Charter Academy and Gonzaga Prep and requested that these be made available electronically for interested patrons. He voiced concerns that we know the procedure but do the parents, especially those who are new. He stressed the importance to make a genuine effort to notify parents of their options. Mr. Facciano feels that Items 2 & 3 of the Literature Guidelines will address this, giving parents an informed choice. Mr. Newby asked again to make this well publicized. Ms. Bauman thanked everyone for their work. Mrs. Brooks thanked concerned citizens for their input which gave the Board the opportunity to see how different literature is being taught. The Literature Guidelines Committee is made up of staff and they will be thoughtful of the process as they write these guidelines. The students we are talking about are in high school, 18 years of age in many cases and will get to vote, or represent our country in the war, so we hope they have the chance to discuss these topics while still a student. She also hopes that parents talk to their students and decide together about the appropriateness of reading materials.

Motion by Mrs. Wood to uphold the current status of I Know Why The Caged Bird Sings as an option on the Freshmen English reading list, second by Mr. Newby passed 4-0.

Motion by Mr. Newby to uphold the current state of Fallen Angels as an option on the Junior English reading list, second by Mrs. Wood, passed 4-0.

The meeting recessed at 7:10 p.m. and reconvened at 7:18 p.m.

Novel Recommendation – Mr. Facciano brought forth the recommendation and the minority response. He asked for questions and noted that Snow Falling on Cedars appears on the Coeur d’Alene Charter Academy reading list. He noted that there were 42 responses to a recent blog; of those 21 supported keeping the books available, 15 were neutral and 6 were against. Mr. Newby noted the district looks for material suited for the intention of the appropriate lesson. This item will appear on the next agenda as an action item.

Finance Report – Steve Briggs reported that the budget is in line with the expectations. Mrs. Zipperer asked about Magnet School funds and expenses. A request was made to add a line to the graph that shows non-operating money.

SPFL Input Process – Assistant Superintendent Hazel Bauman shared information about the recent presentations and how they will continue through the end of the year. Support staff and some community groups along with building staff members have heard about a possible School Plant Facilities Levy. An informational flyer identifies needs based on information provided by the Long Range Planning Committee (LRPC). After the presentation, audience members are asked for feedback and to note which they believe are the top three needs. Compiled information will be taken to LRPC in December and a recommendation should be forthcoming in January. Mrs. Wood asked about working with NIC regarding Professional Technical facilities. She hopes there will be dialogue about how many projects will be tackled. Ms. Bauman replied that there’s been discussion surrounding the length of the SPFL and/or possibly a bond. Professional Technical was added to the list of needs because we will likely need our own facilities over and above the consortium. Mrs. Wood recommended hosting a workshop about the scope, programs and what will be covered by the consortium. Mrs. Wood spoke about not confusing voters between the two issues and Ms. Bauman responded that people seem to be unaware that Professional Technical should be a K-12 issue. Mr. Amend commented about a recent meeting held with NIC President Priscilla Bell and superintendents Jerry Keane and Chuck Kinsey about this topic. Mr. Newby commented that the informational document is currently being used in-house, and that gives us a chance to find out what the thoughts are within our district.

Board Policies – Frances Huffman presented a new policy (Title 1 Parent Involvement) for information; a policy necessary to meet federal requirements for families served by Title 1 programs. Mrs. Huffman met with other Title 1 Directors as they worked on writing this policy. Mr. Newby asked for input from parents and legal counsel.

SPEAK Update – Vice-Chair Newby reported that six legislators spoke at last week’s meeting. Kudos to the staff at Project who hosted and catered the event. Topics discussed were: Teacher Mentors, Full day Kindergarten, and Discretionary Funds. Superintendent Amend spoke about election consolidation which will cause problems for educators and this bill may include public K-12 education. Representative Frank Henderson is willing to champion the professional technical funding effort. E-mails and letters of support toward this effort will be helpful.

Call for Committee Reports – Mrs. Zipperer met with Educational Policy Review where they looked at policies coming to the Board in January. Mrs. Brooks attended the High School Academic Improvement Committee. They discussed the effect of electronic devices in school.

Superintendent’s Report – Superintendent Amend invited Board members to attend a ceremony commemorating the 100th anniversary of Frank Borah’s election to the senate. Borah Elementary is named after the senator and Governor and Mrs. Butch Otter will present a proclamation honoring the Senator.

Board Comments and Information – Mrs. Wood asked about art teachers schedules at Sorensen and Mrs. Pratt explained that four teachers cover one day per week.

Motion by Mr. Newby, second by Mrs. Wood for Executive Session: Idaho Code 67-2345, Subsection (b) to consider the evaluation, dismissal or disciplining of, or to hear complaints or charges brought against a public officer, employee, staff member or individual agent or public school student; (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, Zipperer each “yes”. Mr. Fredrickson was absent.

The meeting returned to open session and adjourned at 8:55 p.m. No action was taken.

Edie Brooks, Chair
Board of Trustees

Lynn M. Towne, Clerk
Board of Trustees

Summary Statement of Executive Session
At 8:30 PM, in accordance with Idaho Code 67-2345, Subsection (b) the Board held an Executive Session to consider the evaluation, dismissal or disciplining of, or to hear complaints or charges brought against a public officer, employee, staff member or individual agent or public school students; (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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