Pa. House debates economic furloughs at schools (Daily Local News 12/4/2013)

Sorry, I missed the last 3 meetings - but found this interesting article today.  I remember this being talked about a year or two ago.

Pa. House debates economic furloughs at schools

By MARK SCOLFORO, Associated Press
Wednesday, December 4, 2013

HARRISBURG, Pa. (AP) — Pennsylvania public schools would have wider latitude to furlough employees during tough economic times and would not have to start with the least senior workers under proposals that were debated Tuesday in the state Capitol.

The House Education Committee gathered input from the school boards' association, the state's largest teacher union and others about three legislative proposals. A committee vote could occur as early as next month.

Carolyn Dumaresq, Gov. Tom Corbett's acting secretary of education, told lawmakers the administration supports allowing economic furloughs as well as replacing seniority rules with a system that protects from furloughs those teachers who are ranked as the most effective in the classroom.

"If we are truly committed to graduating students who are college and workforce ready, then we need to ensure that we have a strong teaching staff, teachers whose performance reflect a focus on student achievement," Dumaresq said.

The state does not currently allow economic furloughs of instructional staff unless enrollment has fallen substantially, schools are consolidated or reorganized, or programs are cut because too few students take certain classes or educational standards have changed.

Cost-cutting over the past three years resulted in the loss of thousands of teaching jobs, and school expert say some schools have been forced to eliminate entire programs, such as foreign languages, because of limits on economic layoffs.

The head of the Pennsylvania State Education Association union, Michael Crossey, said the proposals could prompt schools to target high-salaried veterans for layoffs. He said the current system to fire bad teachers works well.

"An educator's experience in pedagogical skills and navigating the classroom environment matters," Crossey said. "And yet, there appears to be an assumption by some that experience is a liability instead of an asset."

Tina Viletto, president of the Cheltenham Township School Board, said current restrictions on furloughs can leave little alternative to the elimination of popular programs.

"We only have the choice to attack the arts, attack music, attack those areas that really do give a well-rounded breadth of knowledge and information," Viletto said.

The Pennsylvania Association of School Business Officials told the committee that about one-third of the nearly 23,000 school district jobs lost since 2009-10 have come from classroom instructional staff. The organization was generally supportive of the proposed changes, but only endorsed two of the competing bills.

Education Chairman Paul Clymer, R-Bucks, said after the hearing that he hoped to meld the three proposals into something that a majority can support. A similar bill did not get out of committee during the last legislative session.

URL: http://www.dailylocal.com/general-news/20131204/pa-house-debates-economic-furloughs-at-schools

© 2013 Daily Local News (http://www.dailylocal.com)

School Board meeting 10/21/2013

OCTORARA AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT
PUBLIC SCHOOL BOARD MEETING
October 21, 2013 – 7:30 p.m.
Jr./Sr. High School Multi-Purpose Room
 
AGENDA
1. Moment of Silence
2. Pledge of Allegiance 
3. Roll Call
2 Absent

4. Approval of Minutes from the Work Session of September 9, 2013 and the Regular Meeting of September 16, 2013.
Approved

5. Presentations
Before the Heroes presentation, Dr. Newcome presented Long-term Service Awards to the following Board members:

• 8 years          Lisa Bowman
• 16 years        Nelson Stoltzfus
• 16 years        Sam Ganow
• 16 years       Bob Hume

A.  Octorara Heroes 

•    Ann Donnelly
• Nick Conforti
• Spencer Fox
• Courtney Moore
• Sara Fiscus
• Brianna Balady
• Elizabeth Lapp
• Haley Fisher
• Kyle Mast
• Robert Jennings
• Jennifer Kauffman
• Dominic Lapp
• Sarah Richey
• Courtney Blake
• Eliza Brown
• Courtney Thompson
• Mandie Wendling
• Brittney Wier
• Jory Hill
• Devin Shade
• Austin Oas
• D J Evans
• Emma Hutchinson

6. Information Items
None

7. Treasurer’s Report
A. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve the General Fund Report for period ending September 30, 2013.
Mr. Ganow gave the Treasurer's Report.   Approved.

8. Business Manager’s Report
A. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve the list of bills for payment.
Mr. Carsley gave the Business Manager's Report.  Mr. Norris had a few questions on checks.  Mr. Carsley will research & get back to Mr. Norris
Approved.

9. Visitors’ Comments - Agenda Items Only
None

10. Recommended Action Items:  (Italicized items are new; they were not on the October 14, 2013 agenda.)
A - V  Approved.

A. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve the Transportation Contract between the Linville Hill Mennonite School and the Octorara Area School District for the 2013-2014 school year.


B. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve the school bus run by the Linville Hill Mennonite School for the 2013-2014 school year.


C. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve Mr. Ronald Leaman as a school bus driver employed by the Linville Hill Mennonite School for the 2013-2014 school year.


D. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve the student activity request for “Manga Club” at the Octorara Area Sr. High School.


E. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve the student activity request for “Fellowship of Christian Athletes” at the Octorara Area Sr. High School.


F. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve the Service Proposal not to exceed $2,300 for EHC Associates, Inc. for three year re-inspection services as required by the Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act.


G. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve the revised Business Associate Agreement between the Octorara Area School District and Reschini Agency, Inc. effective October 1, 2013 due to new HIPAA regulations.


H. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve the revised Business Associate Agreement between the Octorara Area School District and Tri-Star Benefit Systems, Inc. effective October 1, 2013 due to new HIPAA regulations.


                  Resignation Approvals:
I. That the Octorara Board of School Directors accept, with regret, the resignation of Ms. Shara Townsend as an instructional assistant at the Octorara Primary Learning Center effective September 20, 2013.  (Hired August 29, 2005)


J. That the Octorara Board of School Directors accept, with regret, the resignation of Ms. Beth Ciccone as a Health and Physical Education teacher at the Octorara Primary Learning Center and Intermediate School effective November 8, 2013. (Hired August 20, 2008)


                    Hiring Approvals: 
K. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve Ms. Lisa Hillman as a long term substitute fourth grade teacher at the Octorara Elementary School from September 24, 2013 through February 14, 2014. Ms. Hillman’s salary will be $49,141 pro-rated which is Step 18 to MAX of the Bachelor’s Scale. (Ms. Hillman is currently on the approved sub list and is replacing a medical leave.)


L. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve Ms. Dorothy Lomboy as  a lunchroom/playground supervisor at the Octorara Intermediate School effective September 23, 2013 pending completion of employee related documents required by law and the District.  Ms. Lomboy’s rate will be $8.75 per hour for three hours per day. 


M. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve Ms. Christine Johnson as  an instructional assistant at the Octorara Primary Learning Center effective September 30, 2013 pending completion of employee related documents required by law and the District.  Ms. Johnson’s rate will be $11.65 per hour for 5.75 hours per day. (Replacing Shara Townsend who resigned.)


N. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve Ms. Jodi Johnson as  a long term substitute instructional assistant at the Octorara Elementary School for the 2013-2014 school year effective September 19, 2013 pending completion of employee related documents required by law and the District.  Ms. Johnson’s rate will be $11.65 per hour for 5.75 hours per day. (Replacing Trent Zook who is substitute teaching.)


O. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve Ms. Dawn Kimberling as a Title I math assistant at the Octorara Intermediate School September 20, 2013 pending completion of employee related documents required by law and the District.  Ms. Kimberling’s rate will be $11.65 per hour for 5.75 hours per day. (Replacing Stacey Hoopes who resigned.)


P. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve Ms. Elizabeth Schlegel as an instructional assistant at the Octorara Intermediate School effective September 19, 2013 pending completion of employee related documents required by law and the District.  Ms. Schlegel’s rate will be $11.65 per hour for 5.75 hours per day. (Replacing Amy Ellsworth who resigned.)


Q. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve Ms. Diane Hery as a cafeteria team leader at the Octorara Elementary School effective October 1, 2013.  Ms. Hery’s rate will be $10.00 per hour for three hours per day.  (Replacing Gloria Stoltzfus who retired.) 


R. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve the following substitute teachers for the 2013-2014 school year:

 Christine Johnson, Elementary, ESL

S. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve the following substitute support staff for the 2013-2014 school year:

  April Bibey, Cafeteria
  Dorothy Lomboy, Instructional Assistant
  Genevieve Dolan, Cafeteria
  Stephanie Halsey, Cafeteria
  Kristina Thompson, General Support
  
T. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve the following supplemental contracts for the 2013-2014 school year:

Kevin Noon  Mentor Lisa Hillman  1 pt  @ $600  $   600
Ashley Brennan  Mentor Joan Agen  2 pts @ $600  $1,200
Emily Landers   7th Grade Field Hockey Coach  4 pts @ $600  $2,400
Tara Pitts  Honor Society Advisor  2 pts @ $600  $1,200
 (Note: Ms. Pitts was previously approved as Honor Society Advisor at two points.  This is typically a four point split position. Ms. Pitts is sole advisor this year due to the co-advisor being on child rearing leave.)

U. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve the following changes in  salary due to graduate credits earned:

Ashley Ayers  From B+15 ($51,719) to M ($53,642)  Step 17 to MAX
Jennifer John  From M+15 ($58,707) to M+30 ($60,919)  Step 17 to MAX
Candice Schwien  From B ($49,441) to B+15 ($51,719)  Step 17 to MAX

V. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve Ms. Frances Propper’s request for unpaid Family Medical Leave for the purpose of child rearing from approximately March 4, 2014 through June 2, 2014 and an additional unpaid leave of absence from June 3, 2014 through the close of the 2013-2014  school year.  Ms. Propper is an emotional support teacher at the Octorara Primary Learning Center, Elementary, Intermediate, and Jr. High Schools.


W. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve Mr. Thomas Stern as Event Security pending completion of employee related documents required by law and the District. Mr. Stern’s rate will be $50 per event. 

Mr. Ganow noted that he thought the District was using Signal 88 for security.  Dr. Newcome said that for large events there is a combination of Signal 88 and internal staff.  For smaller events, there is just internal staff.  Mr. Stern is a substitute teacher who will be part of the internal staff for event security.

Approved

X. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve Ms. Krista Lease as a Teacher on Special Assignment from October 28, 2013 to December 20, 2013 (37 days).  Ms. Lease will assume the day to day responsibilities for Ms. McNamara who will be on medical leave.  She will receive a stipend of $100 per day for a total of $3.700. 
Approved

Y. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve the agreement between the Octorara Area School District and the parents of student “A” to attend the Concept School.
Approved.

11. Policy Committee Report
Mr. Ganow said that the committee started review of Policies 801 (Public Records) and 806 (Required Reports of Child Abuse by School Employee).   Both should be ready for 1st reading next month.

12. Finance Committee Report
In Ms. Johnson's absence, Mr. Ganow gave the Finance Committee Report. 
They received a report on the annual audit.  It is complete and there will be a presentation on Nov. 18th.

The district needs to bond the tax collector for $ 1 million.

Reviewed report on tax appeal.

Fund Balance assessment.

Budget timeline - may opt out of exemptions

13. I.U./C.A.T. Board Representative’s Report
Mr. Stoltzfus sent the report to the Board.  They are starting their budget & upcoming teacher negotiations.

14. Old Business
None

15. New Business 
None

16. Other Items and Announcements
None

17. Visitors’ Comments – General
None

18. Administrator Comments/Announcements
Dr. Rohrer gave an update on Team O - pull community w/ district - They are developing plans to work on. 

3 Topics:
Attendance
Drugs/Alcohol
Bullying

The 30-40 people who are currently involved have been broken down into 3 committees for the 3 topics.

Rachel's Challenge assemblies this week.  For more info: http://www.rachelschallenge.org/

Lydia Lions reported that some Student Council members attended a conference where one topic they were excited about concerned growing vegetables to be used in the cafeteria.  Lydia made them aware that Octorara already does this.

Dr. Newcome looked into Run for Education that Mr. Norris asked about last week.  He said that it is similar to something that is already done here to help fund sports.  

Reminder that an Education Committee meeting will be held next week.  Parents invited to come hear about drilling down into the annual report; learn about Learning Focused Schools and School Performance Profiles.  The meeting will be held in the Jr. High multipurpose room.

The Holiday Food Drive will look a little different this year.  Instead of meals for Thanksgiving being delivered from the school, the school is working with local agencies/Food Bank.  Families will register w/ the food bank.  This will hopefully help with sustainability throughout the whole year, not just the holidays.
19. Board Comments
Ms. Bowman gave a Right To Know update.  A timeline was developed.   See link:   http://octorara.k12.pa.us/cms/lib07/PA01916570/Centricity/Domain/46/Office%20of%20Open%20Records.Alexander%20Doc.%20102113.pdf

Mr. Norris asked what this has cost the District so far.   $5,500.

Mr. Norris said he spoke with a teacher who teaches in the Pequea School District.  They have done Learning Focused Schools for 8 - 10 years and loves it.  He hopes that our staff gives it a chance.

Mr. Ganow is interested in comparing our legal fees to other area districts.  He'd like to see something on legal fees as a percentage of expenses or per student.

20. Adjournment


Policy Committee Meeting – Monday, October 21, 2013 – 6:00 p.m. in the District Office Conference Room

Finance Committee Meeting – Monday, October 21, 2013 – 6:30 p.m. in the District Office Conference Room

Executive Session for personnel– Monday, October 21, 2013 – Following the Regular Meeting in the District Office Conference Room

Education Committee Meeting – Monday, October 28, 2013 – 6:00 p.m. in the District Office Conference Room

 Facility Committee Meeting – Monday, November 11, 2013 – 6:30 p.m. in the  District  Office Conference Room

Next regularly scheduled Work Session – Monday, November 11, 2013 – 7:30 p.m. in the Jr. High School Multi-Purpose Room

Finance Committee Meeting – Monday, November 18, 2013 – 6:00 p.m. in the District Office Conference Room

Policy Committee Meeting – Monday, November 18, 2013 – 6:30 p.m. in the District Office Conference Room

Next regularly scheduled Board Meeting – Monday, November 18, 2013 – 7:30 p.m. in the Jr. High School Multi-Purpose Room

Education Committee Meeting – Monday, November 25, 2013 – 6:00 p.m. in the District Office Conference Room

School Board Work Session 10/14/2013

OCTORARA AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT
WORK SESSION
October 14, 2013 – 7:30 p.m.
Jr./Sr. High School Multi-Purpose Room

DISCUSSION GUIDE
1. Moment of Silence
2. Pledge of Allegiance
3. Roll Call
1 absent

4. Presentations
A. School Performance Profile – Elena Wilson
This will be covered in a separate post.


5. Visitors’ Comments - Agenda Items Only
None

6. Information Items
None

7. Presentation of Agenda Items for the October 21, 2013 Regular Monthly Public Meeting:
A. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve the Transportation Contract
between the Linville Hill Mennonite School and the Octorara Area School District for
the 2013-2014 school year.

B. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve the school bus run by the
Linville Hill Mennonite School for the 2013-2014 school year.

C. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve Mr. Ronald Leaman as a school
bus driver employed by the Linville Hill Mennonite School for the 2013-2014 school
year.

D. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve the student activity request for
“Manga Club” at the Octorara Area Sr. High School.

E. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve the student activity request for
“Fellowship of Christian Athletes” at the Octorara Area Sr. High School.

Ms. Bowman asked Dr. Rohrer about the number of clubs at the High School.  Dr. Rohrer said  that he wasn't sure about the current number.  The number changes from year to year as the interests of the students changes.   Every year clubs get added and others get eliminated.

F. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve the Service Proposal not to
exceed $2,300 for EHC Associates, Inc. for three year re-inspection services as
required by the Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act.

G. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve the revised Business Associate
Agreement between the Octorara Area School District and Reschini Agency, Inc.
effective October 1, 2013 due to new HIPAA regulations.

H. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve the revised Business Associate
Agreement between the Octorara Area School District and Tri-Star Benefit Systems,
Inc. effective October 1, 2013 due to new HIPAA regulations.

 Resignation Approvals:
I. That the Octorara Board of School Directors accept, with regret, the resignation of
Ms. Shara Townsend as an instructional assistant at the Octorara Primary Learning
Center effective September 20, 2013. (Hired August 29, 2005)

J. That the Octorara Board of School Directors accept, with regret, the resignation of
Ms. Beth Ciccone as a Health and Physical Education teacher at the Octorara Primary
Learning Center and Intermediate School effective November 8, 2013. (Hired August
20, 2008)

 Hiring Approvals:
K. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve Ms. Lisa Hillman as a long term
substitute fourth grade teacher at the Octorara Elementary School from September 24,
2013 through February 14, 2014. Ms. Hillman’s salary will be $49,141 pro-rated
which is Step 18 to MAX of the Bachelor’s Scale. (Ms. Hillman is currently on the
approved sub list and is replacing a medical leave.)

L. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve Ms. Dorothy Lomboy as a
lunchroom/playground supervisor at the Octorara Intermediate School effective
September 23, 2013 pending completion of employee related documents required by
law and the District. Ms. Lomboy’s rate will be $8.75 per hour for three hours per
day.

M. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve Ms. Christine Johnson as an
instructional assistant at the Octorara Primary Learning Center effective September
30, 2013 pending completion of employee related documents required by law and the
District. Ms. Johnson’s rate will be $11.65 per hour for 5.75 hours per day.
(Replacing Shara Townsend who resigned.)

N. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve Ms. Jodi Johnson as a long term
substitute instructional assistant at the Octorara Elementary School for the 2013-2014
school year effective September 19, 2013 pending completion of employee related
documents required by law and the District. Ms. Johnson’s rate will be $11.65 per
hour for 5.75 hours per day. (Replacing Trent Zook who is substitute teaching.)

O. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve Ms. Dawn Kimberling as a Title
I math assistant at the Octorara Intermediate School September 20, 2013 pending
completion of employee related documents required by law and the District. Ms.
Kimberling’s rate will be $11.65 per hour for 5.75 hours per day. (Replacing Stacey
Hoopes who resigned.)

 P. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve Ms. Elizabeth Schlegel as an
instructional assistant at the Octorara Intermediate School effective September 19,
2013 pending completion of employee related documents required by law and the
District. Ms. Schlegel’s rate will be $11.65 per hour for 5.75 hours per day.
(Replacing Amy Ellsworth who resigned.)

Q. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve Ms. Diane Hery as a cafeteria
team leader at the Octorara Elementary School effective October 1, 2013. Ms. Hery’s
rate will be $10.00 per hour for three hours per day. (Replacing Gloria Stoltzfus who
retired.)

R. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve the following substitute teachers
for the 2013-2014 school year:

 Christine Johnson, Elementary, ESL

S. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve the following substitute support
staff for the 2013-2014 school year:

 April Bibey, Cafeteria
 Dorothy Lomboy, Instructional Assistant

T. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve the following supplemental
contracts for the 2013-2014 school year:

Kevin Noon Mentor Lisa Hillman $ 200


U. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve the following changes in
salary due to graduate credits earned:

Ashley Ayers From B+15 ($51,719) to M ($53,642) Step 17 to MAX
Jennifer John From M+15 ($58,707) to M+30 ($60,919) Step 17 to MAX
Candice Schwien From B ($49,441) to B+15 ($51,719) Step 17 to MAX

V. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve Ms. Frances Propper’s request
for unpaid Family Medical Leave for the purpose of child rearing from approximately
March 4, 2014 through June 2, 2014 and an additional unpaid leave of absence from
June 3, 2014 through the close of the 2013-2014 school year. Ms. Propper is an
emotional support teacher at the Octorara Primary Learning Center, Elementary,
Intermediate, and Jr. High Schools.

8. Facility Committee Report
Mr. Stoltzfus gave the Facilities report.

• Researched the service proposal under "F".  Recommend EHC.
• Sent some old desks to auction.  Did not get very much for them.  A group of students is tearing down the rest for scrap.  We will probably get more for that than the ones that were sold.
• The water treatment plant needs repairs.  Need estimates.
• Some issues with the auditorium.  Strip lights in handicap area keep getting kicked off.  Do not need the lights.  Can replace w/ yellow strip.
• Continue to update priority list.
• There will be items on the November agenda.
• Problems w/ water in the band room & studio since renovations.  We should know more by the end of the week.  There is testing going on.
• School safety seminar on campus today.  Approx. 125 - 135 people attended.  Many topics were covered.  
• We have 3 wells.  Two work well.  One doesn't work at all.  When the fence was put up around the varsity field, a wire was hit.  Looking into a wireless remote for this well.
• Sign at 41 & Highland needs repaired.  Two estimates:  $650 and $800
• Mr. Carsley suggested that a percentage of positive fund balance at the end of the year be set aside for repairs such as the sign.  It would have to be put into a policy.
• Field development 1) Took some trees down as a safety measure 2) Task force may tackle the track next.

9. Education Committee Report
Mr. Norris gave the Education Committee report.   The committee met Sept. 23rd    

• Mr. Propper & Mr. Dikun attended a conference on school safety
• Dr. Rohrer gave an update on the iPads.  At that time, 25 still needed to be distributed at that time.
• The district asked chesco.net to bump up the speed.
• The District will be a pilot site for online testing because of the iPad program.
• Ms. Michalowski gave an update on special education.  Need to reconfigure how special education students are distributed.
• Ms. Wilson gave an update on Learning Focused Schools.

10. Other Items/Concerns
Ms. Bowman attended the Chester County School Board meeting. 
 Got information on School Performance Profile.  
HB 1189 passed - gives districts ability to increase local income tax, sales tax or stay with property taxes.  (http://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/Legis/CSM/showMemoPublic.cfm?chamber=H&SPick=20130&cosponId=12182)

There is also relief on the way for districts to eliminate fee for collection of delinquent taxes.

Some charter school relief - for 2 years, districts would not have to pay pension & food service costs to charter schools.

11. Visitors’ Comments – General
None

12. Administrator Comments/Announcements
Dr. Newcome talked about homecoming week.  Things went well.  They have some ideas for next year.  He thanked Jamie Bankert for organizing.  He had a lot of help.  

There was a good day at the safety summit.  

Jerry & Kim Zimmerman will be putting together a group to look at safety issues to develop recommendations before budget season starts.  Dates will be announced.

13. Board Comments
Ms. Bowman also spoke about homecoming.  Thanked Mr. Hume for being the grand marshal of the parade.

Mr. Oleyniczak spoke about the safety summit.  After being in law enforcement for over 30 years, he didn't think he would learn anything new, but he was pleasantly surprised.  The Octorara area was well-represented.  

Mr. Norris said that the band had a good parade season.  He thanked Mr. Cullen and Mr. Reynolds.  While watching a soccer game at homecoming, he thought that since we have the technology to stream games, the board meetings could be streamed.  He would like the Board to think about it.

He wondered why the Race for Education is not occurring on campus.  It is similar to Jumprope for Heart, but the money stays in the District.

He has 2 kids with iPads.  It is great watching them use the tablets.  It is interesting how teachers are integrating them.  

Mr. Lapp spoke about standards and political correctness.


14. Adjournment


Facility Committee Meeting – Monday, October 14, 2013 – 6:30 p.m. in the
District Office Conference Room

Executive Session for personnel and litigation – Monday, October 14, 2013 –
Following the Work Session in the District Office Conference Room

Policy Committee Meeting – Monday, October 21, 2013 – 6:00 p.m. in the District
Office Conference Room

Finance Committee Meeting – Monday, October 21, 2013 – 6:30 p.m. in the District
Office Conference Room

Next regularly scheduled Board Meeting – Monday, October 21, 2013 – 7:30 p.m. in
the Jr. High School Multi-Purpose Room

Education Committee Meeting – Monday, October 28, 2013 – 6:00 p.m. in the District
Office Conference Room

Citadel Heart of Learning Award

The nomination period for the 2014 Citadel Heart of Learning Awards is now open through December 31, 2013!

 

Encourage your families and friends (as well as yourself) to nominate a deserving Chester County teacher who has gone above and beyond the daily classroom activities.  Nomination information and forms can be found at CitadelHeartofLearning.com. 

 

Be sure to follow Citadel on Facebook and Twitter for the latest updates:

 

www.facebook.com/CitadelHeartofLearning

www.twitter.com/CitadelHearts

So true....

School Board Meeting 09/16/2013

OCTORARA AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT
PUBLIC SCHOOL BOARD MEETING
September 16, 2013 – 7:30 p.m.
Jr./Sr. High School Multi-Purpose Room
 
AGENDA

1. Moment of Silence
2. Pledge of Allegiance 
3. Roll Call
All present

4. Approval of Minutes from the Work Session of August 12, 2013 and the Regular Meeting of August 19, 2013.
Approved

5. Presentations
Dr. Newcome introduced Lydia Lion as the student representative to the Board.
 
6. Information Items

A.  Cheryl Johnson will transfer from a personal care aide/instructional assistant at  the Octorara Area Sr. High School to an instructional assistant at the Primary  Learning Center. (Replacing Kathryn Weston who resigned.)

7. Treasurer’s Report
A. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve the General Fund Report for period ending August 31, 2013.
Mr. Ganow presented the report.  Approved

8. Business Manager’s Report
A. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve the list of bills for payment.
Mr. Carsley presented the report.  There were some questions about checks.  Mr. Carsley will get the answers back to those who asked.

9. Visitors’ Comments - Agenda Items Only
None

10. Recommended Action Items:  (Italicized items are new; they were not on the September 9, 2013 agenda.)
A-O Approved.

A. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve the list of school bus drivers employed by Althouse Transportation, Inc. for the 2013-2014 school year.

B. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve the list of school bus runs by Althouse Transportation, Inc. for the 2013-2014 school year.

C. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve the revisions to Policy 815 “Acceptable Use Policy”, second reading.

D. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve the revisions to Policy 807 “Opening Exercises”, second reading.

E. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve a stipend of $383.55 for Ms. Deb Canby for writing a successful grant.  The grant provided $7,671 for the Octorara Health and Physical Education Department and was awarded by CCRES. 

                  Resignation Approvals:
F. That the Octorara Board of School Directors accept, with regret, the resignation of Ms. Stacey Hoopes as an instructional assistant at the Octorara Intermediate School effective August 14, 2013.  (Hired August 2, 2007)

                    Hiring Approvals: 
G. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve Ms. Jennifer Shaw as  long term substitute ISS monitor at the Octorara Area Sr. High School for the 2013-2014 school year pending completion of employee related documents required by law and the District.  Ms. Shaw’s rate will be $10.15 per hour. (Replacing Jason Ralston who transferred.)

H. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve the following substitute teachers for the 2013-2014 school year:

 Andrew Buchy, Science
 Sara Daigle, Elementary
 Alicia Hardy, Social Studies
 David Hazell, Music
 Lisa Hillman, Elementary
 Kelly Holub, Elementary, Reading Specialist
 Melody Hostetter, Elementary
 Jessica Karahilis, Science/Biology
 Dawn Kimberling, Elementary
 Mark Klucharich, Social Studies
 Lisa Rohrer, Elementary 
 Sheena Scheffel, Elementary
 Elizabeth Schlegel, Elementary
 Leah Tymeson, Science
 Alicia VanDenAcre, Social Studies, Family & Consumer Science
 Rachel McNaughton, Elementary, Mid-Level Math
 
I. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve the following substitute support staff for the 2013-2014 school year:

  Sharon Burget, Cafeteria
  Kelly Jeffries, Cafeteria
  Christine Sellers, Cafeteria

J. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve the following supplemental contracts for the 2013-2014 school year:

JoAnn Marinacci  Mentor Johanna Lasak     2 pts @ $600  $1,200
David Baker  Mentor Ashley Stern        2 pts @ $600  $1,200
Melissa Fanelli  Mentor Alison Venini  2 pts @ $600  $1,200
Kelly Wetzel   Mentor Morgan Callaway        2 pts @ $600  $1,200
Michelle Moran  Mentor Ashley Whiteman        2 pts @ $600  $1,200
Jennifer Dean  Mentor Jessica Hyrnkow                                      $   200
Vanessa Peterson  Mentor Amanda Friedman       2 pts @ $600  $1,200
Amanda Kieffer  Mentor Shelley Leonard           2 pts @ $600  $1,200
Mark Peticca  Mentor Mark Durante                1  pt @ $600  $   600
Nikki Bonaduce-Davis  Mentor Richard Baker               1  pt @ $600  $   600
Adam Udell  Mentor Matt Worrell                                       $   200
Kathleen Heller  Mentor Jason Ralston                                     $   200
Pat Lauletta  Mentor Liz DiSabatino             2 pts @ $600  $1,200
Jen Watson  Mentor Scott Gee  2 pts @ $600                 $1,200

K. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve the following changes in  salary due to graduate credits earned:

Alysyn Hoffman  From M ($53,642) to M+15 ($58,707)  Step 17 to MAX
Dawn Munion  From B+15 ($51,719) to M ($53,642)  Step 17 to MAX
Jennifer John  From M ($53,642) to M+15 ($58,707)  Step 17 to MAX
 Joan Miller  From B ($49,441) to B+15 ($51,719)  Step 17 to MAX
Kelly Wetzel  From M+45 ($68,500) to M+60 ($71,642)  Step 11to MAX
Marjory Zajac  From M+15 (65,253) to M+30 ($67,127)**  Step 10 to MAX
 ** Note:  Ms. Zajac’s salary will be prorated for the 2013-2014 school year due to her FMLA and sabbatical.   

L. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve Ms. Jennifer Godowsky’s request for unpaid Family Medical Leave for the purpose of child rearing from approximately January 30, 2014 through April 30, 2014 and an additional unpaid leave of absence from May 1, 2014 through the close of the 2013-2014  school year.  Ms. Godowsky is a music teacher at the Octorara Primary Learning Center.


M. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve Ms. Fallon Manchin’s request for unpaid Family Medical Leave for the purpose of child rearing from approximately March 21, 2014 through April 22, 2014.  Ms. Manchin is a Learning Support teacher at the Octorara Elementary School.


N. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve Ms. Cristin Schultz as a long term substitute instructional assistant at the Octorara Elementary School effective August 26, 2013 pending completion of employee related documents required by law and the District.  Ms. Schultz’s rate will be $11.65 per hour. (Replacing Trent Zook who transferred.)


O. That the Octorara Board of School Directors accept Ms. Cristin Shultz’s resignation as a long term substitute instructional assistant at the Octorara Elementary School effective August 30, 2013.


P. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve the student activity request for “The Class of 2017” at the Octorara Area Sr. High School.
Approved

Q. That the Octorara Board of School Directors accept the resignation of Ms. April Pidgeon as a cafeteria employee effective May 30, 2013.  (Hired January 21, 2013)
Approved

R. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve Ms. Mary “Kim” Myers as a Title I reading assistant at the Primary Learning Center effective August 28, 2013 pending completion of employee related documents required by law and the District. Ms. Myers’ rate will be $11.65 per hour for 5.75 hours per day.  (Replacing Linda Haslett who transferred.)
Approved

S. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve Ms. Joan Agen as a half-time Virtual Academy Teacher at the Octorara Area Sr. High School effective September 12, 2013 pending completion of employee related documents required by law and the District.  Ms. Agen’s salary will be $26,696 which is half of Step 18 to MAX of the Mastewr’s Scale.
Mr. Ganow asked how many students there are.  Dr. Newcome said there are 8 in what was called Alternative Education.  This position will also cover those who have come back from virtual charter schools.  Approved.

T. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve the agreement for Octorara Landscape and Turf Company to perform fertilization and mowing services on all District athletic fields from September 1, 2013 through June 30, 2014 at a fee of $45,542.
Mr. Oleyniczak asked about wording in the contract.  He wanted to know if it had been reviewed by counsel.  Dr. Newcome & Mr Carsley stated that they used the language from the bleacher contract.  Approved

11. Finance Committee Report
Ms.Johnson gave the report.  Linda Neff gave a report on recommendations from the Student Advisory Group concerning lunches.  Recommendations have been implemented.  She also went over regulations.

Discussed annual audit, tax collector bond, index for next year (2.1) and Linville Hill bus contract.

Received tax equalization information from the State.

12. Policy Committee Report
Mr. Ganow gave the report.  Second reading of 815 and 807 tonight.  Will be looking at more in October.

13. I.U./C.A.T. Board Representative's Report
Mr. Stoltzfus stated that the meeting is Wed.  He will forward report to Board members when he receives it.

14. Old Business
None

15. New Business
None

16. Other Items and Announcements
The Board chose who they are voting for in the Pennsylvania School Board Association election.

17. Visitors' Comments - General
None

18. Administrator Comments/Announcements
Ms. Wilson reported that the Keystone Exams being used for graduation and PA Common Core standards were approved last Thursday.

Dr. Rohrer let everyone know that Homecoming is next week.  There will be a lot of activities.

Mr. Ganow asked if there were issues getting people into the games.  Dr. Rohrer said they may have to open additional gates.

Dr. Newcome had two items: 

1. Last Wednesday, the Octorara Agriculture Business Environmental Science group picked a date for an Agriculture Expo featuring student work.  It will be held 5/31/2014 from 9 am - 5 pm.  There are several volunteers from the community.  Ms. Lion is co-chair.
2. Friday evening after the football game, he overheard a teacher make a comment. Several people were cleaning up trash, etc.  The teacher said something to the effect that "this is what's great about Octorara - everyone pitches in - the superintendent, school board president, other school board members.   Dr. Newcome discussed ways our school board members were involved in the school and community before becoming board members and how they continue to be involved whether or not they have children attending Octorara. 

19. Board Comments
Mr. Norris reminded everyone that the first parade of the season is Wednesday in Quarryville.  Step-off  for the band is at 6:15.  He also noted that on Saturday, Dr. Newcome attended Atglen Community Day and took a turn in the dunk tank.  He thanked him for doing so.

Ms. Bowman let Board members know that there is a copy of a letter from a resident included in their packets.  The resident is upset about taxes.  Mr. Norris contacted the resident and talked with him.  She wanted to publicly acknowledge receipt of the letter.

20. Adjournment


Finance Committee Meeting – Monday, September 16, 2013 – 6:00 p.m. in the District Office Conference Room

Policy Committee Meeting – Monday, September 16, 2013 – 6:30 p.m. in the District Office Conference Room

Executive Session for personnel – Monday, September 16, 2013 – Following the Regular Meeting in the District Office Conference Room

Education Committee Meeting – Monday, September 23, 2013 – 6:00 p.m. in the District Office Conference Room

 Facility Committee Meeting – Monday, October 14, 2013 – 6:30 p.m. in the  District  Office Conference Room

Next regularly scheduled Work Session – Monday, October 14, 2013 – 7:30 p.m. in the Jr. High School Multi-Purpose Room

Policy Committee Meeting – Monday, October 21, 2013 – 6:00 p.m. in the District Office Conference Room

Finance Committee Meeting – Monday, October 21, 2013 – 6:30 p.m. in the District Office Conference Room

Next regularly scheduled Board Meeting – Monday, October 21, 2013 – 7:30 p.m. in the Jr. High School Multi-Purpose Room

Education Committee Meeting – Monday, October 28, 2013 – 6:00 p.m. in the District Office Conference Room

Work Session 9/9/2013

 OCTORARA AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT WORK SESSION
September 9, 2013 – 7:30 p.m.
Jr./Sr. High Multipurpose Room

Discussion Guide

1. Moment of Silence
2. Pledge of Allegience
3. Roll Call
All present

4. Presentations
None

5. Visitors' Comments - Agenda Items Only
None

6. Information Items
None

7. Presentation of Agenda Items for the September 16, 2013 Regular Monthly Public Meeting:

A. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve the list of school bus drivers employed by Althouse Transportation, Inc. for the 2013-2014 school year.

B. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve the list of school bus runs by Althouse Transportation, Inc. for the 2013-2014 school year.

C. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve the revisions to Policy 815 “Acceptable Use Policy”, second reading.

D. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve the revisions to Policy 807 “Opening Exercises”, second reading.


E. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve a stipend of $383.55 for Ms. Deb Canby for writing a successful grant.  The grant provided $7,671 for the Octorara Health and Physical Education Department and was awarded by CCRES. 
Stipend is 5% of grant amount.  Ms. Camby has written successful grants for the past several years.

                  Resignation Approvals:
F. That the Octorara Board of School Directors accept, with regret, the resignation of Ms. Stacey Hoopes as an instructional assistant at the Octorara Intermediate School effective August 14, 2013.  (Hired August 2, 2007)


                    Hiring Approvals: 
G. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve Ms. Jennifer Shaw as  long term substitute ISS monitor at the Octorara Area Sr. High School for the 2013-2014 school year pending completion of employee related documents required by law and the District.  Ms. Shaw’s rate will be $10.15 per hour. (Replacing Jason Ralston who transferred.)
Ms. Shaw filled in last spring in the same position.

H. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve the following substitute teachers for the 2013-2014 school year:

 Andrew Buchy, Science
 Sara Daigle, Elementary
 Alicia Hardy, Social Studies
 David Hazell, Music
 Lisa Hillman, Elementary
 Kelly Holub, Elementary, Reading Specialist
 Melody Hostetter, Elementary
 Jessica Karahilis, Science/Biology
 Dawn Kimberling, Elementary
 Mark Klucharich, Social Studies
 Lisa Rohrer, Elementary 
 Sheena Scheffel, Elementary
 Elizabeth Schlegel, Elementary
 Leah Tymeson, Science
 Alicia VanDenAcre, Social Studies, Family & Consumer Science

I. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve the following substitute support staff for the 2013-2014 school year:
  Sharon Burget, Cafeteria
  Kelly Jeffries, Cafeteria
  Christine Sellers, Cafeteria

J.  That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve the following supplemental contracts for the 2013-2014 school year:
JoAnn Marinacci  Mentor Johanna Lasak  2 pts @ $600          $1,200
David Baker  Mentor Ashley Stern            2 pts @ $600          $1,200
Melissa Fanelli  Mentor Alison Venini     2 pts @ $600           $1,200
Kelly Wetzel   Mentor Morgan Callaway   2 pts @ $600          $1,200
Michelle Moran  Mentor Ashley Whiteman        2 pts @ $600  $1,200
Jennifer Dean  Mentor Jessica Hyrnkow                                      $   200
Vanessa Peterson  Mentor Amanda Friedman       2 pts @ $600 $1,200
Amanda Kieffer  Mentor Shelley Leonard     2 pts @ $600      $1,200
Mark Peticca  Mentor Mark Durante         1  pt @ $600  $   600
Nikki Bonaduce-Davis  Mentor Richard Baker          1  pt @ $600  $   600
Adam Udell  Mentor Matt Worrell                                      $   200
Kathleen Heller  Mentor Jason Ralston                                 $   200
Pat Lauletta  Mentor Liz DiSabatino     2 pts @ $600                  $1,200
Jen Watson  Mentor Scott Gee  2 pts @ $600                              $1,200

Mr. Ganow questioned the number of new hires.  Dr. Newcome explained that not all are new hires.  New hires are the 2pts.  An existing employee moving to a new building/new position is 1pt. and an existing employee moving to a new position in the same building is $200.

K. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve the following changes in     salary due to graduate credits earned:

Alysyn Hoffman  From M ($53,642) to M+15 ($58,707)  Step 17 to MAX
Dawn Munion  From B+15 ($51,719) to M ($53,642)  Step 17 to MAX

L. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve Ms. Jennifer Godowsky’s request for unpaid Family Medical Leave for the purpose of child rearing from approximately January 30, 2014 through April 30, 2014 and an additional unpaid leave of absence from May 1, 2014 through the close of the 2013-2014  school year.  Ms. Godowsky is a music teacher at the Octorara Primary Learning Center.

M. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve Ms. Fallon Manchin’s request for unpaid Family Medical Leave for the purpose of child rearing from approximately March 21, 2014 through April 22, 2014.  Ms. Manchin is a Learning Support teacher at the Octorara Elementary School.

N. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve Ms. Cristin Schultz as a long term substitute instructional assistant at the Octorara Elementary School effective August 26, 2013 pending completion of employee related documents required by law and the District.  Ms. Schultz’s rate will be $11.65 per hour. (Replacing Trent Zook who transferred.)

O. That the Octorara Board of School Directors accept Ms. Cristin Shultz’s resignation as a long term substitute instructional assistant at the Octorara Elementary School effective August 30, 2013.

Dr. Newcome explained that since Ms. Shultz worked for a few days, that in order to pay her, there needed to be the formal approval of hiring & then resignation.

8.  Facility Committee Report
Mr. Stoltzfus gave the report on the Facilities Committee meeting. 

• Estimated $17K tree problems.  Some we can handle, some we can't.
• HS Roof was completed 8/25
• Water treatment plant needs some significant updates.  It's been 12 years since major upgrades occurred.  We need estimates.ll 
• Auditorium - problem w/ railing down front.
• We will update long-range plan by October meeting.
• 5 years ago, the renovations on the High School began.  We've had issues with water in the band room & the studio.  We thought it had been fixed, but with these last heavy rains, there was more water.  We don't know what the source is.  It has been scoped.  They may look at dyes.  We have signed letters from contractors who did the work that they will be responsible for repairs.
• The district has taken care of the athletic fields in the past (fertilizing, etc.)  Sent out to bid for fertilization, maintenance & mowing.  
• There is a request for a shed at the Jr. High Field Hockey field.
• Fall Fest will occur at end of the month.  There was a request for fireworks.  It is on hold for this year until the District can research it.
• Linville Hill bus runs - no increase in rates.
• There is nothing on the sign at Rt 41 & Highland Rd.  The rails that hold the letters need to be replace.  Looking at price to fix.

9. Other Items/Concerns
PASBA (Pennsylvania School Board Association) - changed bylaws - established new voting delegates. Delegates to vote on platform.  Meeting is during the day.  None of our Board members are available to go.  We don't have to send anyone.  Instead of individuals voting, the Board votes as a whole.  This will not be an official action of the Board.

10. Visitors’ Comments – General                  
None

11. Administrator Comments/Announcements
Dr. Rohrer said that approx. 150 students need to get their ipads

Dr. Newcome said that the Homeland Security/Career Technical program has been officially approved.  There are 17 students enrolled.  Signal 88 is providing sponsorship ($500) - in partnership with the District.  Local fire departments & law enforcement are also helping.

Safety update - Brian Dikun is collecting data.  They have gathered statistics on SRO and security officers in Chester and Lancaster County school districts.  We have received no direction in applying for grants from the State.
              
The District is hosting a safety summit on 10/14.  It is by invitation only (law enforcement, school board members, etc.)  It is a non-student day.

If you go by the Octorara Area Food Cupboard, take a look at the sign.  It was made by Octorara students.  

Enrollment as of the 3rd day of school:  2,502
Nov. 1st last year:  2,505
This will be updated throughout the year.

The dedication of the Operations Facility Center will occur over homecoming in recognition of Dale Miller.

Policies that will be worked on in the near future:

• Child abuse
• Opposite gender participating in sports
• Drug screening policy
• Open records policy

These will be talked about at the next policy meeting.  First reading probably in October.  

Homecomng is the end of September.  There will be a schedule next week.

Congratulations to the staff on a good opening of school.  Everyone is hard at work.

12. Board Comments
None

13. Adjournment


 Facility Committee Meeting – Monday, September 9, 2013 – 6:30 p.m. in the  District  Office  Conference Room

Executive Session for personnel – Monday, September 9, 2013 – Following the Work Session in the District Office Conference Room

Finance Committee Meeting – Monday, September 16, 2013 – 6:00 p.m. in the District Office Conference Room

Policy Committee Meeting – Monday, September 16, 2013 – 6:30 p.m. in the District Office Conference Room

Next regularly scheduled Board Meeting – Monday, September 16, 2013 – 7:30 p.m. in the Jr. High School Multi-Purpose Room

Education Committee Meeting – Monday, September 23, 2013 – 6:00 p.m. in the District Office Conference Room

Why Philadelphia Schools will Close Their Doors Forever - Digital Journal 9/2/2013 by Jay McClung

Why Philadelphia schools will close their doors forever

Posted Sep 2, 2013 by Jay McClung

The School District of Philadelphia, the eighth largest school district in the United States, nestled in the country’s fifth largest city, will make history when it permanently closes it doors within the next two years.

RGB Free Stock Photos

Locked Gate

While Philadelphia is one of the largest school districts in the country, it is also one of the most bankrupt. The district will start the 2013-2014 school on September 9 but stares at a $304 million deficit. If it weren’t for the city borrowing $50 million on behalf of the school district, none of the 218 public schools would be opening next week. The slight infusion of money allows Superintendent William Hite to open schools on time but it’s far from meeting the needs of the district that had to lay off 20 percent of its total staff over the summer. It was the second consecutive year of thinning out staff that saw 3,800 teacher and staff positions eliminated, 100 school nurses, 90 school resource officers, and 43 bilingual counselors.

Although the school district continues to have financial and academic trouble year after year, the finger pointing halts at the State of Pennsylvania. After taking control of the district in 2001, the state has not fixed any of the problems in Philadelphia; allowing the current situation to spread like a virus. Jerusah O. Conner is an education professor at Villanova University and is an expert on the Philadelphia school district. In a recent interview, Professor Conner said that the state shoulders much of the blame for the district’s problems. “Pennsylvania ranks 8th lowest in the country, spending only 35.8 percent on education. Were it not for the deliberate underinvestment and disinvestment in Philadelphia schools by the state, the district could easily be enjoying a multibillion dollar surplus instead of a deficit.”

Many in the education field say that Pennsylvania Governor Tom Corbett is to blame for the crisis in Philadelphia. Corbett should have allocated more money for Philadelphia after taking office but instead, he made massive budget cuts in 2011, including cutting $1 billion from education statewide. The results of Corbett’s axe wielding left the district with a $629 million shortfall that year and the momentum of the crisis continued to grow. The city of Philadelphia attempted to generate money by raising property taxes 3.85 percent last year to generate an estimated $53 million for the district but that, just like this year’s gift of $50 million, is just a band aid on a severed artery. Some lawmakers in the Pennsylvania acknowledge the crisis and put together a state rescue package for Philadelphia. The $141 million aid, along with an additional $45 million from the state previously allocated to the district, is awaiting Governor Corbett’s signature. The money is being withheld by the state while Superintendent Hite and Philadelphia Mayor Michael Nutter negotiate with the teachers’ union about taking enormous salary cuts and rolling back certain benefits. Since there has been no agreement with the union, funding from the state is being held and will only be released once negotiations are complete.

Education experts, like Professor Conner, say that Corbett has an agenda for Philadelphia and that plan, apparently, is to strangle the life out of the struggling district. According to a report, 80 percent of Philadelphia students come from disadvantaged backgrounds, only slightly more than 60 percent of students graduate from high school, and less than 60 percent are proficient in reading and math. Those numbers aren’t acceptable to Governor Corbett. After cutting the education budget, the Governor commissioned Boston Consulting Group, a major global-business consulting and school “right-sizing” firm, to a $1.5 million contract to fix the Philadelphia problem. Boston Consulting Group has a worldwide reputation for crushing teachers’ unions and putting most public schools under charter control. Corbett followed the firm’s advice and the infusion of charter schools is starting to overrun Philadelphia.

According to The Philadelphia Citypaper, the School District of Philadelphia will spend $729 million on charter schools in the coming fiscal year. Nearly a third of Philadelphia’s students will attend 84 charter schools this year and it will cost the district an estimated $7000 per student to attend a charter school. Parents are starting to move their children away from the nearly extinct public schools by enrolling them in charter schools and virtual charter schools. The problem with this equation is academics and money. A Stanford study found students at 100 percent of Pennsylvania’s cyber charters performed significantly lower than the peers at traditional schools. Five Pennsylvania cyber charters receive $200 million in tax money each year to produce unacceptable results. The Agora Cyber Charter, which is run by the for-profit company K12, made $31.6 million last year from state taxpayers. It’s interesting to note that billionaire Michael Milken is an owner of K12 and that Mr. Milken was convicted of racketeering and securities fraud in 1989.

Adding more fuel to the charter fire is the state’s law that keeps the school district powerless. Daniel Denvir says, “For reasons that aren’t clear, millions of dollars have moved between the network of charter schools, their parent nonprofit, and two property-management entities. The School District is charged with overseeing city charters but 'does not have the power or access to the financial records of the parent organization.'” This is how companies like Aspira Inc. are draining the life out of Philadelphia schools. Denvir reports that Aspira Inc. of Pennsylvania operates four Philadelphia charter schools and owes large sums of money to the district. As of last June, that total had climbed to $3.3 million. The Philadelphia charter school scandal, however, has become common the past five years. Since 2008, 18 Philadelphia charter schools have been under federal investigations. A 2010 City Controller investigation stated that the district is “extremely vulnerable to fraud, waste, and abuse.” Superintendent Hite even went on record to say, “Unmanaged, self-directed, charter-school growth could force the district into a perpetual deficit.”

Unfortunately, for Mr. Hite and everyone involved with the School District of Philadelphia, the end is approaching. Over the summer, the governor appointed School Reform Commission (SRC), passed a “doomsday” budget for Philadelphia that included cuts so drastic that there was no money for school to open this fall and funding for things such as paper, new books, athletics, arts, music, and guidance counselors would be slashed. In a press conference this past May, Thomas Knudsen, the Chief Recovery Officer for the School Reform Commission, stated that SRC plans to, “close 40 schools next year and an additional six every year thereafter until 2017. The remaining 20 to 30 schools would be placed into ‘achievement networks’ where public and private groups would compete to manage the networks.” Adding more fuel to the fire, Governor Corbett is now backing legislation that will dramatically decrease charter oversight, reduce local control, extend the charter period from 5 years to 10 years, and grant automatic charter renewals.

This crisis, and the ultimate downfall of Philadelphia public schools, could have been avoided through proper financial management. At the end of the last budget year, the state of Pennsylvania had a modest surplus but Governor Corbett chose to allocate money towards building new prisons. Helen Gym, a public school parent and the founder of Parents United for Public Education, told the Washington Post, “Pennsylvania is one of three states in the nation without a funding formula for schools (based on enrollment, population, or other metric). The funding of districts is basically determined in back room deals among party leadership, with little consideration of need or even actual enrollment.”

Although schools will open in Philadelphia next week, the district and the city have a long year ahead of them while Governor Corbett’s charter movement continues to gain strength. In a year or two, we will all look back at this historic event and talk about how Tom Corbett turned the School District of Philadelphia into Sodom and Gomorrah.

Read more: http://www.digitaljournal.com/print/article/357577#ixzz2eOYIWCn6

http://www.digitaljournal.com/article/357577

Press Release - Cyberschool 08/19/2013

PRESS RELEASE

The Octorara Area School District (OASD) is pleased to announce a pilot project with 21^st Century Cyber Charter School (21^st CCCS) beginning August 26, 2013.

The public charter school movement was started in an effort to allow experimentation in public education to find best practices and innovative ideas on learning.  With that spirit the public schools and the Intermediate Units in the four counties surrounding Philadelphia began the most successful cyber charter school in Pennsylvania in 2001. Because of the success of 21^st CCCS,and in the spirit of why public charter schools were initiated, it makes sense to embrace the successful practices uncovered by 21^st CCCS in the traditional public school setting in the OASD and determine if these lessons learned are able to be utilized effectively in the traditional setting. More aptly, may the lessons learned be used to modify our understanding of what traditional means.

21^st Century Cyber Charter School will have their first satellite location on the campus of the Octorara Area School District. This will include the use of one classroom located in the Junior High School building on the hallway adjacent to the District Office. A staff of four to eight teachers from 21^st CCCS will be on location with supervision from their principal, Ms. Monica Frank. Ms. Frank is a newly appointed principal after five years of instruction in the virtual environment of 21^st CCCS.

Two members of the OASD staff will be working part time with the 21^st CCCS staff to deliver instruction in the virtual environment. These teachers will receive training and experience during the course of the school year. Each will maintain a partial schedule within the Octorara High School program. They will collaborate with the staff from 21^st CCCS on campus and will develop teaching experience in the virtual environment alongside teachers from the most successful cyber charter school in Pennsylvania. The OASD staff will begin to learn how to deliver on-line instruction from the best in the business.

21st CCCS will rent the space from the OASD and will provide seats within their classrooms for OASD students. This will offset the cost of seats the District has been purchasing from Brandywine Virtual Academy to run the District Alternative Education program. Additionally, it will allow the District the flexibility to provide on-line opportunities for other students in the District and the opportunity to find new and creative ways to look at instructional delivery.  These additional opportunities will be offered without increasing the budget.

We welcome our public education partner, 21^st Century Cyber Charter School to our community and our campus!

.