BOARD OF EDUCATION Bristol, Connecticut July 2, 2003 Meeting The regular monthly meeting of the Bristol Board of Education was held on Wednesday, July 2, 2003 at 7:00 p.m., in the Board of Education Administration Building, 129 Church Street, Bristol. PRESENT: Chairman Richard P. Saporito, Vice-Chairman Patricia Bligh Petosa, Secretary Kimberly A. B. Fabrizio, and Commissioners Jane E. Anastasio, Beverly R. Bobroske, Barbara Y. Doyle, Brian P. Glenn, Julie M. Luczkow and Reinhard L. Walker; Michael J. Wasta, Superintendent of Schools; Susan Kalt Moreau, Deputy Superintendent; Anthony S. Malavenda, Director of Human Resources; and City Councilman Kenneth Scott, Council Liaison to the Board of Education. EXCUSED: William Smyth, Assistant to the Superintendent for Business. CALL TO ORDER / PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE/ MOMENT OF SILENCE: Chairman Saporito called the meeting to order at 7:02 p.m. and invited the audience to join him in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance. A moment of silence was observed in memory of Anna Mae Sorensen, elementary teacher from 1929 through 1966, and for Wade Botteon, a student at Northeast Middle School. APPROVAL OF MINUTES: On motion of Commissioner Doyle, seconded by Commissioner Petosa, it was unanimously VOTED: That the minutes of the June 4, 2003 regular Board of Education meeting, and the June 11, 2003 budget workshop be approved as written. PUBLIC PARTICIPATION: Members of the public were invited to address the Board on items not already on the published agenda. There being no one who wished to be heard, the Chairman moved to the next agenda item. RECOGNITION OF STAFF ACHIEVEMENTS: Commissioner Doyle announced that John Harris, a business teacher at Bristol Eastern High School, was honored at the spring awards program of the National Foundation of Teachers of Entrepreneurship. He received recognition for his promising practices in teaching about the creation of a business and the American economic system. Commissioner Luczkow announced that Bristol Central High School is representing American high schools in a newly published English language textbook that will be used in France for the next seven years, representing the average American high school. Dorothy Raviele organized the project and Dave Greenleaf provided many digital photographs. Other teachers and students contributed by being interviewed on a videotape that will be included in the listening portion of the lesson. Commissioner Bobroske announced that Latanya Farrell was selected as one of the three finalists for the Connecticut Star Search sponsored by WFSB, Channel 3 television station. She will be performing at the Riverfest celebration in Hartford on Saturday, July 5.
7/2/03 Board of Education Meeting 2 BOARD COMMITTEE REPORTS: Athletics and Activities Committee Committee Chairman Walker had no report at this time. Buildings and Grounds Committee Committee Chairman Luczkow reported that this committee met earlier this evening and approved playground equipment for Mountain View School and the donation of a new school sign for Mountain View School. Negotiations Committee Committee Chairman Bobroske announced that negotiations will be discussed during the Executive Session portion of this meeting. Personnel Committee Commissioner Walker had no report at this time. Communications and Community Relations Committee Committee Chairman Doyle reported that at its last meeting the committee reviewed several policies within the 1000 Series; these will be discussed in this meeting s agenda item #10. At this time, 596 completed surveys have been returned to Central Office. Additional time has been given to the public to return the surveys. Technology Advisory Committee Committee Chairman Doyle announced that the committee looked over the preliminary technology plan that will be submitted to the State Board of Education. The plan will be brought before this Board of Education at the August or September meeting for final approval. Transportation Committee Committee Chairman Petosa had no report at this time. CREC Commissioner Glenn distributed a copy of the programs offered by CREC. CABE Commissioner Bobroske reported that she has been watching the activities at the State Capitol. Dr. Wasta added that he has a three-page report on new mandates that school districts will be dealing with. High School Code and Alterations Projects Commissioner Bobroske announced that the administration is still trying to complete the remaining 1% or 2% of the project. An Open House for the community will be planned for the early fall. Ivy Drive School Renovation Committees In Mr. Smyth s absence, Dr. Wasta reminded the Board that it had approved the specifications and plans for the asbestos removal and the roof replacement, renovations, and addition for the Ivy Drive School. The contractor for the asbestos removal is well into the project. The office staff is expected move back into the office next week. Ad Hoc Gifted Committee - Commissioner Glenn had no report at this time. Ad Hoc Title I Task Force - Commissioner Anastasio had no report at this time. Ad Hoc Accountability Monitoring Team Chairman Saporito had no report at this time.
7/2/03 Board of Education Meeting 3 REPORT OF THE ASSISTANT TO THE SUPERINTENDENT FOR BUSINESS Monthly Budget Report: Reporting for Mr. Smyth, Dr. Wasta announced that there was no budget report for the month of July as accounts are in process of being closed out. Monthly Cafeteria Report: Dr. Wasta reported that there is a small deficit in the cafeteria program this year, as expected by Mr. Smyth. The overall participation average is a fraction of a point different from last year s participation, averaging 60.84 this year through June. He expected the 10 increase in meal prices would close the participation gap for next year. Student Accident and Sports Insurance for 2003-2005: Commissioners were provided with the Student Accident and Sports Insurance bids received from five insurance companies. Mr. Smyth recommended the Lefebvre Insurance Company be awarded the contract to provide insurance coverage for students whose parents/guardians choose to participate and to all of the intramural and inter-scholastic athletes. On motion of Commissioner Petosa, seconded by Commissioner Doyle, it was unanimously VOTED: That the student accident and sports insurance be awarded to Lefebvre Insurance Company. SUPERINTENDENT S REPORT/ACTION Administrative Resignation: Dr. Wasta announced that Dr. Anne Jellison was the successful candidate for Superintendent of the Winchester Public Schools. She has submitted her resignation from the Bristol Public Schools, effective June 30, 2003. On motion of Commissioner Petosa, seconded by Commissioner Fabrizio, it was unanimously VOTED: That the Board of Education accept the resignation of Dr. Anne Jellison from her position as Principal of Greene-Hills School, effective June 30, 2003. Teacher Retirements: On motion of Commissioner Petosa, seconded by Commissioner Fabrizio, it was unanimously VOTED: That the Board of Education accept the letter of retirement from the following teachers, effective June 30, 2003: Andrea Friedman Grade 7/8 math teacher at Memorial Boulevard Middle School; Beverly Zurrell Family & Consumer Science teacher at Northeast Middle School. Teacher Resignations: On motion of Commissioner Doyle, seconded by Commissioner Fabrizio, it was unanimously
7/2/03 Board of Education Meeting 4 PERSONNEL Teacher Resignations (continued): VOTED: That the Board of Education accept the letter of resignation from the following staff members, effective June 30, 2003: Karen Schneider grade 2 at Clara T. O Connell School (from a leave of absence); Melanie Vetrano -.5 biology teacher at Bristol Central High School. Request for Unpaid Leave of Absence: On motion of Commissioner Doyle, seconded by Commissioner Fabrizio, it was unanimously VOTED: That the Board of Education grant an unpaid leave of absence to Rebecca Arigoni, grade 2 teacher at Greene-Hills School, effective July 1, 2003 through June 30, 2004. Vote to Terminate Teacher Contract Due to Reduction in Force: Dr. Wasta explained that due to shifting needs at the high schools, there is one teacher who has not been placed in a position for 2003-2004. Michelle Peterson, a half time art teacher at Bristol Eastern High School, has been officially notified in writing of the Superintendent s recommendation to terminate her contract due to reduction in force. The administration made it clear to the Board of Education in public session that this termination had nothing to do with Ms. Peterson s performance issues, and that they look forward to having her return to the school district. Commissioner Petosa moved, seconded by Commissioner Walker, that the Board of Education terminate the contract of Michelle Peterson. In discussion, Commissioner Anastasio voiced her opposition to cutting the position by stating that Bristol has 50 less teachers in its ERG, Dr. Wasta s report which cites a number of teachers and support services needed (item #9 on this meeting s agenda), and the accreditation report of Bristol Eastern High School where additional teachers are suggested. She felt that reducing the position would not be a good precedent to set, and the district could find the money to keep the position. The motion was put to question and VOTED: That the Board of Education terminate the contract of Michelle Peterson because of elimination of positions, the resultant inadequate number of positions in her area of certification, and the application of Article 33 of the current collective bargaining agreement with the Bristol Federation of Teachers; i.e., reason number (5) under Connecticut General Statutes Section 10-151(d) as amended. Chairman Saporito declared the motion PASSED, after a roll call vote of eight (8) commissioners in favor of the motion and one (1) opposed, recorded as follows: Commissioner Anastasio, NO; Commissioner Bobroske, YES; Commissioner Doyle, YES; Commissioner Fabrizio, YES; Commissioner Glenn, YES; Commissioner Luczkow, YES; Commissioner Petosa, YES; Commissioner Saporito, YES; and Commissioner Walker, YES. New Teacher Hires: On motion of Commissioner Bobroske, seconded by Commissioner Petosa, it was unanimously
7/2/03 Board of Education Meeting 5 PERSONNEL New Teacher Hires (continued): VOTED: That the Board of Education approve the hiring of the following teachers, effective August 25, 2003: Anita Bolz Science, Bristol Eastern High School; Deborah Carrington English, Bristol Eastern High School; Melissa DeLoureiro Grade 2, Greene-Hills School; Alyssa Krenicki Grade 2, Clara T. O Connell School; Benjamin Oksanen Math, Bristol Central High School; Bevin Parent Grade 4, John J. Jennings School; Barbara Scheideler Special Education, citywide. Mr. Malavenda reviewed the teaching positions needed for the 2003-2004 school year. Two language arts positions are needed at the high school and middle school levels; he is currently interviewing a candidate. With the retirement announced this evening, a family and consumer science position is available; he will be interviewing a few candidates. Math positions are open at the middle and high school levels. Elementary positions are being filled where needed. The administration plans on reviewing enrollment figures soon and that information will be brought to the Board s attention next month. Non-Bargaining Retirement: On motion of Commissioner Luczkow, seconded by Commissioner Petosa, it was unanimously VOTED: That the Board of Education reluctantly accept the retirement letter of Nancy Kleinschmidt as Executive Secretary to the Board of Education and the Superintendent of Schools, effective December 5, 2003. On behalf of the Board of Education, Commissioner Petosa presented Ms. Kleinschmidt with a floral arrangement. A-1 and A-2 Schedule Resignations: On motion of Commissioner Doyle, seconded by Commissioner Petosa, it was unanimously VOTED: That the Board of Education accept the following resignations from A-1 and A-2 positions, effective June 30, 2003. Kenneth Boudreau A-1 Gifted coach at Stafford School; Pat Branagan A-2 School Newspaper Advisor at Bristol Central High School; Lisa Carroll A-2 Assistant Drama Advisor, Bristol Eastern High School; Thomas Chauvin A-1 Gifted coach, Bristol Eastern High School; Carlos Silva A-2 Head Drama Advisor, Bristol Eastern High School; Alicia Thomas A-2 Student Council Advisor, Bristol Central High School. A-2 Schedule Appointments: On motion of Commissioner Bobroske, seconded by Commissioner Fabrizio, it was unanimously
7/2/03 Board of Education Meeting 6 PERSONNEL A-2 Schedule Appointments (continued): VOTED: That the Board of Education appoint the following individuals to A-2 schedule positions, effective July 1, 2003: Paul Brenton School Newspaper Advisor, Bristol Central High School; Lisa Carroll Head Drama Advisor, Bristol Eastern High School; Elias George Book Custodian, Bristol Central High School; John Jemes Grade 9 Team Leader, Bristol Eastern High School; Cindy Lombardo Assistant Drama Advisor, Bristol Eastern High School; Alexis Stolarun Band Auxiliary Unit Instructor, Bristol Central High School; Alicia Thomas Math League Advisor, Bristol Central High School. Appointment of Personnel Under the A-2 Schedule for 2003-2004: Dr. Wasta informed the Board that the A-2 Schedule includes building level A-2 positions and coaching positions that must be approved annually. This list reflects those resignations and appointments voted upon at this meeting. On motion of Commissioner Doyle, seconded by Commissioner Petosa, it was unanimously VOTED: That the Board of Education approve the appointment of personnel under the A-2 schedule for the 2003-2004 school year. Coaching Resignations: On motion of Commissioner Glenn, seconded by Commissioner Fabrizio, it was unanimously VOTED: That the Board of Education accept the resignations from the following coaching staff members: Lisa Galske Assistant Girls Soccer coach, Bristol Eastern High School, Effective May 27, 2003; Michael Mitchell Assistant Wrestling coach, Bristol Central High School, Effective June 23, 2003; James Rogers Baseball coach, Chippens Hill Middle School, Effective June 19, 2003; David Romeo Softball coach, Northeast Middle School, Effective June 17, 2003; Thaddeus Scott Assistant Football coach, Bristol Central High School, Effective June 12, 2003; Patricia Tomkil, Assistant Girls Track coach, Bristol Eastern High School, Effective March 27, 2003; Ginny Torreso Head Girls Basketball coach, Bristol Central High School, Effective June 20, 2003. Volunteer Coaching Appointments: On motion of Commissioner Fabrizio, seconded by Commissioner Petosa, it was unanimously VOTED: That the Board of Education approve the appointment of Thomas Moylan as a volunteer to the Girls Soccer Program at Bristol Central High School, effective July 1, 2003. WELLNESS REPORT FROM BRISTOL/BURLINGTON HEALTH DISTRICT: Dr. Patricia Checko, Director of the Bristol/Burlington Health District, and Lydia Abrahamsen, Director of Nursing, were invited to attend the meeting to present a report on overweight children in the Bristol Public Schools.
7/2/03 Board of Education Meeting 7 WELLNESS REPORT FROM BRISTOL/BURLINGTON HEALTH DISTRICT (continued): Chairman Saporito had requested information be provided to the Board on the number of students with asthma and diabetes; these were reported on at the May and June Board meetings. The third component he had requested were the number of students considered overweight. The report indicated that in kindergarten through grade seven, 21% of students fell into the overweight category and 21% are at risk of becoming overweight. These terms are preferred for describing children and adolescents whose excess body weight could pose medical risks. A total of 1128 students (equal number of boys and girls) were sampled. The prevalence of overweight among children and adolescents in Bristol in 2003 is higher than the most recent national estimates. However, the national data is several years old, and it cannot be determined at this time whether Bristol s rates in 2003 are higher than the current national rate. A reduction in a scheduled recess period for elementary students, less physical activity during the school day, students not choosing nutritious lunches and snacks, vending machine offerings all contribute to students being overweight. Discussion continued on ways the District can provide nutritious lunches and snacks during school and steer students toward lifetime activities. John Novakowski, Supervisor of Health, Athletics and Physical Education, reviewed the physical education aspect of students lifestyles. Dr. Checko announced that Bristol has formed a Community Obesity Prevention Campaign, with John Novakowski and Gregory Boulanger, the school district s Food Services Director, co-chairing the campaign. The kick-off of the program will be held in Rockwell Park in September. Chairman Saporito requested that Dr. Wasta and Dr. Checko meet to form a Task Force with timelines to bring parents, the community and school personnel together to discuss a comprehensive approach to wellness of students and how the community as a whole can conquer the problem. FUNDING FOR EDUCATION IN THE CITY OF BRISTOL Part II Defining the Gap: Dr. Wasta introduced a list of programs and services that administrators feel should be put into place in the Bristol Public Schools during the next several years. When finalized, this list would form the core of a long-term improvement process. The plan places a heavy, although not exclusive, emphasis on building programs and services to meet the needs of students at risk for educational failure or underachievement. In a previous report to the Board of Education entitled, Funding for Education in the City of Bristol (November 2002) the administration documented a gap in educational funding relative to towns and cities in the district s ERG. That gap between Bristol s relative wealth and its spending on education is more than $9 million. Dr. Wasta indicated that this report shows the kinds of programs and services that the students in Bristol are not receiving as a result of the $9 million gap. He stressed that the items included in the list do not address the issue of regular classroom teachers. The overall student population is quite stable, and assuming that this stability continues, a significant change to the overall number of regular classroom teachers is not anticipated. The programs and services that may become necessary over the next several years include: 21 teachers and 33 paraprofessionals in order to offer fulltime kindergarten; 3 additional psychologists and 9 additional special education teachers; 6 staff to implement a comprehensive peer-mediation program; 12 additional staff to provide remedial support at the middle and high school levels; 5 additional teachers of English As A Second Language;
7/2/03 Board of Education Meeting 8 FUNDING FOR EDUCATION IN THE CITY OF BRISTOL Part II Defining the Gap: (continued): Major infrastructure enhancements as well as additional computers, software and support; 9 additional library-media specialists; 3 additional pre-school teachers and 3 additional aides; replacement of major music equipment; Extended year instruction; 6 additional nurses to have a nurse in every school; 4 additional mathematics remedial teachers; 3 additional guidance counselors; 2 additional administrators; 2.5 additional secretaries; 5 additional literacy teachers; 1 additional carpenter within the Maintenance Department; 1 additional custodian to split time between the high schools, and 1 additional citywide custodian; 10 elementary curriculum resource specialists; 1.5 art teacher, 1.5 music teacher, and.5 physical education teacher at the elementary level. Dr. Wasta explained that most costs within the report would be ongoing. The suggestions are all not about money, but the district needs to make changes as to how the schools are run. He asked commissioners to review the data in the report and call his office if there are questions. He anticipated finalizing this report in August or September for a plan to achieve the programs and services in priority order. A question and answer period took place. POLICY REVISIONS: Instruction #6153 Field Trips (second presentation): On motion of Commissioner Petosa, seconded by Commissioner Glenn, it was unanimously VOTED: That the Board of Education approve the revision to Policy #6153 Instruction: Field Trips, under second presentation. Community Relations Policies (first presentation): Several community relations policies and regulations had been introduced for revision at a prior Board meeting and referred to the Communications and Community Relations Committee for further review and clarification. The committee met and made changes to those policies. In discussion, further recommendations were suggested to the regulation #1170(b), Bristol Public School Staff and Award Program as to how the awardees would be recognized by the District. The Board will be asked to consider the proposed revisions at the August Board meeting. Instruction #6172.41 Title I Programs (first presentation): Dr. Wasta introduced a Policy for Title I Programs. With the passage of the Federal No Child Left Behind Act, districts are required to have policies in place regarding Title I funding and parent involvement in Title I funded schools.
7/2/03 Board of Education Meeting 9 POLICY REVISIONS - Instruction #6172.41 Title I Programs (continued): The District and Title I Schools will create Parental Involvement Compacts as a means for increasing parent support in their child s education. The regulations include parental notification requirements and distribution of school parental involvement compacts, notification of teacher qualifications, notification to parents of services for Limited English Proficient students, and notification to parents of schools not making adequate yearly progress. Commissioners were asked to contact administrators with questions and comments. A recommendation to approve the policy and regulations will be made at the August Board meeting. CONSENT ACTION Grant Applications: On motion of Commissioner Petosa, seconded by Commissioner Fabrizio, it was unanimously VOTED: That the Board of Education approve the 21 st Century Community Learning Center grant, a five year grant which is a collaborative between the Bristol Board of Education, Bristol Boys and Girls Club, Bristol Youth Services and Bristol Community Organization with funding as follows: Year 1 - $438,088 Year 4 - $328,566 Year 2 - $438,088 Year 5 - $219,044 Year 3 - $438,088 OTHER BUSINESS PROPER TO COME BEFORE THIS MEETING: There was no other business proper to come before this meeting. CONVENE INTO EXECUTIVE SESSION: On motion of Commissioner Petosa, seconded by Commissioner Fabrizio, it was unanimously VOTED: That the Board of Education convene into Executive Session for the purpose discussing Negotiations. (8:40 p.m.) EXECUTIVE SESSION: The Board of Education convened into Executive Session at 8:50 p.m. PRESENT: Chairman Richard P. Saporito, Vice-Chairman Patricia Bligh Petosa, Secretary Kimberly A. B. Fabrizio, and Commissioners Jane E. Anastasio, Beverly R. Bobroske, Barbara Y. Doyle, Brian P. Glenn, Julie M. Luczkow and Reinhard L. Walker; Michael J. Wasta, Superintendent of Schools; Susan Kalt Moreau, Deputy Superintendent; Anthony S. Malavenda, Director of Human Resources; and Nancy Kleinschmidt, Executive Secretary. Also present was Brian Clemow of the law firm of Shipman and Goodwin, Hartford, who reviewed a City of Bristol Retirement Pension Fund recommendation. Mr. Clemow left the Executive Session at 9:38 p.m. The Board of Education reviewed the negotiated contract with the Bristol Association of Principals and Supervisors.
7/2/03 Board of Education Meeting 10 RECONVENED PUBLIC SESSION: The Board of Education reconvened into Public Session at 9:59 p.m. Contract with the Bristol Association of Principals and Supervisors: On motion of Commissioner Bobroske, seconded by Commissioner Petosa, it was unanimously VOTED: That the Board of Education approve the tentative agreement between the Bristol Board of Education and the Bristol Association of Principals and Supervisors, effective July 1, 2004 through June 30, 2007. ADJOURNMENT: On motion of Commissioner Walker, seconded by Commissioner Fabrizio, it was unanimously VOTED: That the meeting be adjourned. (10:01 p.m.) Respectfully submitted: Nancy M. Kleinschmidt Executive Secretary