Octorara School Board Meeting 11/09/2009

OCTORARA AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT
WORK SESSION
November 9, 2009 – 7:30 p.m.
Middle School Multi-Purpose Room

DISCUSSION GUIDE

1. Lord’s Prayer

2. Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag

3.Roll Call

All present.

4. Visitors’ Comments - Agenda Items Only

5.Presentations:

6.Information Items:
A.Ms. Shara Townsend will transfer from clerical assistant at the Octorara Primary
Learning Center to instructional assistant at the Octorara Primary Learning Center
effective November 2, 2009. (Replacing Melanie Gridley who resigned.)

B.Ms. Cheryl Todd will transfer from software specialist at the Octorara District
Office to District registrar/secretary at the Octorara District Office effective
November 9, 2009. (Replacing Rebekah Doane who resigned.)

7.Presentation of Agenda Items for the October 19, 2009 Regular Monthly Public Meeting:

A.That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve the attached Bureau of Career
and Technical Education Approved Program Evaluation Correction Plan and Status
Update for 2008-2009.

B.That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve the use of the high school
gym for a Wiffle Ball Tournament fundraiser for the baseball team on Sunday,
December 6, 2009 from 12:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

The Board would like to see this start at 1:00 pm.

C. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve Student “A” for graduation as
of November 16, 2009. The student has completed all requirements for graduation
required by the Octorara Area School District and the Commonwealth of
Pennsylvania.

D.That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve policy 707, Use of
Public School Facilities, first reading.

Mr. Hume stated he is opposed to the YMCA being charged.

E.That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve the following change orders
to Bristol Environmental, Inc. for the High School renovation and addition project:

Change Order 002 Additional asbestos removal $28,720.00
Change Order 003 Pipe and fitting insulation abatement $ 6,232.91

Resignation Approvals:

F. That the Octorara Board of School Directors accept Mr. Scott Forman’s resignation
as an instructional assistant at the Octorara High School effective October 27,
2009. (Hired April 19, 2005.)

G.That the Octorara Board of School Directors accept Ms. Frances DeJesse’s
resignation, with regret, as a bus duty aide at the Octorara Intermediate School
effective October 29, 2009. (Hired October 18, 2004.)

H.That the Octorara Board of School Directors accept Ms. Rebekah Doane’s
resignation as District registrar/secretary at the Octorara District Office effective
November 6, 2009. (Hired February 26, 2009.)
Hiring Approvals:

I. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve the transfer of Ms. Cheryl
Johnson as a one-on-one instructional/personal care assistant at the Octorara High
School at the rate $12.85 to a well being assistant at the Octorara High School at
the rate of $15.40 per hour effective October 28, 2009. (Replacing Scott Forman
who resigned.)

Dr. Newcome stated that this is here because of the change in salary. Mrs. Bowman asked about training. Dr. Newcome replied that there is training through the I.U. and the school nurse.

J.That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve the transfer of Ms. Kathleen
Shaffer from a lunch/playground assistant at the Octorara Primary Learning Center
at the rate of $8.55 per hour to a one-on-one instructional/personal care assistant at
the Octorara High School at the rate of $12.40 per hour effective November 2,
2009. (Replacing Cheryl Johnson who transferred.)

K.That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve the employment of Ms.
Deborah Pizolato as a lunch/playground assistant at the Octorara Primary Learning
Center pending completion of employee related documents required by law and the
District. Ms. Pizolato’s rate will be $8.25 per hour effective November 5, 2009.
(Replacing Kathleen Shaffer who transferred.)

L.That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve the employment of Ms. Jane
Markman as a mid-range substitute gifted/reading teacher at the Octorara
Intermediate School pending completion of employee related documents required
by law and the District. Ms. Markman’s rate will be $140 per day from
approximately October 20, 2009 through November 13, 2009. (Replacing
Christine Gray who is on medical leave.)

M. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve the employment of Mr. Kyle
Whary as eighth grade girl’s basketball coach. This position is designated at 4
points at $545 per point. (Replacing Scott Forman who resigned.)

N.That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve the employment of Ms.
Robin Elias as middle school cheerleading coach. This position is designated at 4
points at $545 per point. (Replacing Sonia Taylor who resigned.)

O.That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve the employment of Ms.
Rebekah Doane as a District interpreter at the rate of $30 per hour on an as needed
basis.

P.That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve the transfer of Ms. Katie
Dikun from a third grade instructional assistant at the Octorara Elementary School
at the rate of $11.45 per hour to a long-term substitute third grade teacher at the
Octorara Elementary School at a rate of $43,741 pro-rated effective approximately
December 3, 2009 through April 27, 2010. (Replacing Sally Welk who will be on
child rearing leave. Ms. Dikun will return to the instructional assistant position on
April 28, 2010.)

Q. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve the following substitute
teachers for the 2009-2010 school year:
Lauren Michalski (Emergency)
Mark Battinieri (Emergency)
Katherine Houser (Emergency)
Melissa Hanzl (Emergency)
Cassandra Eccles (Special Ed and Elementary)
Peter DuFresne (Emergency)
John Hathaway (Emergency)

R.That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve the following substitute
support staff for the 2009-2010 school year:
Melanie Gridley (Instructional Assistant)
Madeleine Oldham (Cafeteria)

S. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve the following changes in
Salary due to graduate credits earned:
Holly Conte From B+15 ($51,027) to M ($52,807) Step 7
Laura Keefer From B ($44,018) to B+15 ($46,717) Step 2
Kim Knightly From M+45 ($64,526) to M+60 ($67,505) Step 10
Matt Livingood From M+15 ($55,181) to M+30 ($57,349) Step 4
Vanessa Peterson From M+15 ($65,268) to M+30 ($67,130) Step 14
John Voss From M+15 ($57,535) to M+30 ($59,524) Step 7

T. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve the salary adjustment for Ms.
Lindsay Mitman from a mid-range substitute teacher rate of $140 per day to a long-
term substitute teacher salary of $43,741 which is Step 1 of the Bachelor’s Scale
prorated from October 29, 2009 through approximately March 23, 2010.

There was a change to Ms. Mitman's salary, as she is substituting over 90 days.

U.That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve Ms. JoAnn Marinacci as a
mentor for Ms. Linsday Mitman from October 29, 2009 through March 23, 2010 at
a stipend of $200.

Mrs. Bowman asked if there was mentor because of substituting over 90 days. Dr. Newcome stated that the mentoring stipend is pro-rated, but he will check on the specifics for next week.

V.That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve the transfer of Mr. Robert
Joseph (Joey) Steffy from computer technician for the District at the salary of
$31,328 to software support specialist for the District at the salary of $35,000
effective November 9, 2009. (Replacing Cheryl Todd who transferred.)

W. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve the attached student activity
request for “Students Without Borders” at the Octorara High School.

8.Facilities Committee Report

Mr. Stoltzfus gave the report. He stated that the construction at the rear of the High School is moving along. We should know by next month when they can move in. The front is also coming along.

The change order listed earlier in the agenda is related to the cafeteria. They found more asbestos in the shop wing. They need to determine what to do - whether to replace & vent or close it up. It would cost approx. $6,000 to remove in the shop wing. However, the classroom areas near there are twice as large. He will have more information next month.

They may need to replace the rest of the Middle School roof. They are getting the numbers together.

Need to replace the water pumps for the wells at approx. $28,000. This does not include the electric work. He hopes to have the total cost next week. They need to figure out where to get the money.

The fire system needs new fiber run from the HS to the MS (approx. $6,000).

EPA fine for the treatment plant - fine reduced.

Field Development - ready to start the football field.

9.Other Items/Concerns

Dr. Newcome asked Mr. Weagley to discuss the fall sports season.

Field Hockey record 9-7-2. They made the district playoffs.
Cross Country - Lauren King was in the top 3rd in the state.
Football - 2 wins. Played night game on Friday night, but lost.
Boys Soccer record 16-4. They are district champs. They begin state playoff games tomorrow night (Tues.) There will be a fan bus for the students.

10. Visitors’ Comments – General

Donna D. wanted to know if the math consultant presentation is still scheduled for next meeting. Dr. Newcome said that it is. She also asked if Policy 707 is available in print. Dr. Newcome said he would get her a copy.

11. Board Comments

Mr. Ganow wanted to go back to letter 'I'. He believes that 'wellbeing' should be one word.

Dr. Newcome introduced John McCartney who will be joining the Board in December.

He had the answer to a couple of questions posed at the last Board meeting regarding a check (which will be invoiced to the Football Club) and the tuition for grad credits at West Chester ($1,000+)

Dr. Newcome was also asked to testify in Harrisburg regarding HB 1788. This bill would help the districts adversely affected by Act 319. He feels there may be some momentum for this bill.

Octorara applied to be an H1N1 vaccination center.

He handed out to the Board members invitations to the fall HS play "A Christmas Carol" .

12. Adjournment


Facility Committee Meeting – Monday, November 9, 2009 – 6:30 p.m. in the
Octorara District Office Conference Room

Executive Session for personnel Monday, November 9, 2009 – following the
Work Session in the Octorara District Office Conference Room.

Finance Committee Meeting – Monday, November 16, 2009 – 6:30 p.m. in the
Octorara District Office Conference Room

Next regularly scheduled Board Meeting – Monday, November 16, 2009 – 7:30

p.m. in the Octorara Middle School Multi-Purpose Room
4

Octorara School Board Work Session 10/12/2009

OCTORARA AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT
WORK SESSION
October 12, 2009 – 7:30 p.m.
Middle School Multi-Purpose Room


DISCUSSION GUIDE

1. Lord’s Prayer
2. Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag
3. Roll Call

2 absent

4.Visitors’ Comments - Agenda Items Only

none

5.Presentations:
A.Mr. Ken Phillips of RBC Dain Rauscher, Bond Issue

Discussed the possible refinancing of the 2001 & 2003 bonds. Scenarios were presented to the Board. It would be a one time savings to the current budget. It would be best if they could have a decision to get legal started writing resolutions for approval. Would like to go to market in December if Board approves. This would be for the same term lengths and cash flow would remain the same. It would decrease the interest rate.

B. Gifted Education Audit Discussion

Dr. Newcome went over the attached. http://docs.google.com/fileview?id=0B3fwieKBz959ZWVmMWNkNjktZWJhZC00NzI5LWFhMjgtYTM2ZGU2MjVlM2Fi&hl=en


6. Information Items:
A. Mr. Pete Mango will resign from the Octorara Area Board of School Directors and concurrently the Chester County Intermediate Unit Board effective with the adjournment of the Octorara Area School District regular board meeting on Monday, October 19, 2009. Mr. Mango represents Region 1 which includes Atglen Borough, Christiana Borough, Parkesburg North, and West Sadsbury Township. His term expires in 2011.

A notice will be sent to residents of the municipalities represented. It will be on the website, the Daily Local News and the Lancaster Newspapers. Interested candidates can submit a letter to the Board. They are looking at an 11/2/2009 deadline. There will then be interviews and the Board will select someone to fill the remainder of the term. Mr. Ganow emphasized that the interviews would be in a separate meeting.

B.Ms. Lina Vu will transfer from a long term substitute Title 1 Math assistant at the Octorara Intermediate School to a permanent Title 1 Math assistant at the Octorara Intermediate School. (This is a new position.)

7. Presentation of Agenda Items for the October 19, 2009 Regular Monthly Public Meeting:
A. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve Ms. Leslie Ferry as a school bus driver employed by Linville Hill Mennonite School for the 2009-2010 school year.

B.That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve the attached school bus run by Linville Hill Mennonite School for the 2009-2010 school year.

Mr. Ganow voiced his appreciation for the answers he received.

C.That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve the attached agreement between the Arc of Chester County and the Octorara Area School District for the 2009-2010 school year.

D.That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve the attached 2010 Lancaster County Tax Collection Bureau Budget.

Mr. Carsley stated that according to Act 32, Octorara must use the Lancaster County Tax Collection Bureau – that for this purpose Octorara is part of Lancaster County. There is meeting tonight at the LCTCB to come up with a resolution that would meet the needs.

Resignation Approvals:

E. That the Octorara Board of School Directors accept, with regret, Mr. Robert Czukoski’s resignation for the purpose of retirement as Assistant to the Superintendent effective October 15, 2009. (Hired October 1, 1995.)

F. That the Octorara Board of School Directors accept Mr. Clint Everett’s resignation as a dental van driver effective October 2, 2009. (Hired October 3, 2008.)

G.That the Octorara Board of School Directors accept Ms. Melanie Gridley’s resignation as an instructional assistant at the Primary Learning Center effective October 30, 2009. (Hired September 28, 2005.)

Hiring Approvals:

H. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve the employment of Ms. Cori Brittingham as a long term substitute Title 1 Math assistant at the Octorara Intermediate School pending completion of employee related documents required by law and the district. Ms. Brittingham’s rate will be $11.15 per hour effective October 12, 2009 through December 15, 2009. (Replacing Lina Vu who transferred.)

Mr. Ganow was looking for an attached resume or application. Ms. Hardy stated that she was previously a substitute, but will get a copy of the application for the Board.

I.That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve the employment of Ms.Kristen McCunney-Hay as a dental van driver for the district pending completion of employee related documents required by law and the district. Ms. McCunneyHay’s rate will be $11.15 per hour for two and one-half to three hours a day for 18 days per year effective October 9, 2009. (Replacing Clint Everett who resigned.)

Mr. Ganow wanted to know why the rate for the van driver & the assistant were the same. Dr. Newcome stated that it is contractual.

J.That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve the employment of the following cafeteria employees pending completion of employee related documents required by law and the district:
Margaret Hanning, server at the rate of $8.50 per hour. (Replacing Penny
Garris who transferred.)
Bonnie Fuller, server at the rate of $8.50 per hour. (Replacing Vera Graham who retired.)
Debbie Perkins, cashier at the rate of $8.75 per hour. (Currently covering maternity leave then a permanent placement to be determined.)


K. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve the employment of Ms. Nikola Freeland as an afternoon bus aide at the Octorara Primary Learning Center pending completion of employee related documents required by law and the district. Ms. Freeland’s rate will be $9.95 effective October 1, 2009. (New position as required by student IEP.)

L.That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve the transfer of Cheryl Johnson as an instructional assistant at the Octorara Intermediate School at the rate of $10.85 per hour to a one-on-one nstructional/personal care assistant at the Octorara High School at the rate $12.85 effective October 13, 2009. (Replacing Janice Papa who resigned.)

M. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve the employment of Ms. Cheryl Coughlin as an instructional assistant at the Octorara Intermediate School pending completion of employee related documents required by law and the district. Ms. Coughlin’s rate will be $11.15 per hour effective October 13, 2009. (Replacing Cheryl Johnson who transferred.)

N.That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve the following teachers for the morning math intervention program at the Octorara Elementary School at a rate of $30 an hour for approximately 1.25 hours per day 3 days a week. The program operates for 53 days and is paid for from the Title 1 grant.
Nicholas Kluge
Ashley Stoltzfus
Fallon Jordan
Shauna McAllister



O.That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve Ms. Mary Cassidy and Mr. Gary Gawin as volunteer swim coaches for the winter sports season. Four Octorara High School students will participate in the Ches-Mont League swim meets when there is a lane available in order to qualify for the District 1 Championship Meet.

Mr. Norris asked how this works. Mr. Weagley explained that this has been done for 7 or 8 years. They get the schedule & work with that. They started with the Ches-Mont last year.

P.That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve Ms. Ann Murray to volunteer in the high school guidance department.

Q. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve Ms. Margaret Schaefer’s request for unpaid Family Medical Leave for the purpose of child rearing from approximately February 10, 2010 through April 16, 2010. Ms. Schaefer is a learning support teacher at the Octorara Primary Learning Center.

R. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve the following substitute teachers for the 2009-2010 school year:
Susan McCormick (Emergency)
Barbara Davis (Emergency)
Marianne Foy (Elementary)
Kate Simmons (Elementary and Guidance)
Christopher Wrigley (Elementary)
Drew Herb (Social Studies)


S. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve the following substitute support staff for the 2009-2010 school year:
Kristen McCunney-Hay
Rana Watterson
Amy Myers (Cafeteria)


T. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve the following changes in Salary due to graduate credits earned:
Kim Cabry From B+15 ($48,441) to M ($50,301) Step 4
Scott Conaghan From M ($51,972) to M+15 ($56,750) Step 6
Judy Ham From M+45 ($81,847) to M+60 ($84,012) Step 22
Amanda Kieffer From M+30 ($65,561) to M+45 ($68,309) Step 13
Kelly Wetzel From M+15 ($58,320) to M+30 ($60,249) Step 8
Heidi Ferry From M+15 ($63,737) to M+30 ($65,561) Step 13
Julie Hughes From M+60 ($74,721) to M+60 ($76,084) Step 17 to 18

U. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve the adjustment of the substitute teacher rate for Lindsay Mitman to $140 per day effective August 31, 2009 through approximately March 23, 2010.

Mr. Hume wanted to know if this was the new rate for substitutes. Dr. Newcome explained that there are different rates.

V. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve the attached student activity request for a Mountain Bike Club at the Octorara High School.

W. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve the attached student activity request for “Friends of Minerva” at the Octorara High School.

Dr. Newcome said that historically these have not been placed on the agenda, but Mr. Carsley asked that they be since there will be funds set up for them.

8.Facilities Committee Report

Mr. Stoltzfus reported that the facilities committee took a tour of the construction during their meeting before this one. There will be some more change orders. There is still no final number on the square feet of asbestos that needs removed.

They are looking to change the time of the flashing signs on Highland Rd. to 5:00 p.m. from 4:30 p.m. and installing a cross-walk.

A storage tank for water needs replaced.

There is an issue with the fire system for the high school renovation which they are trying to resolve.

The pod will be removed after the construction is complete and they will add lights & sidewalks.

Mr. Norris asked about the pumps for the well. Mr. Stoltzfus said that they were old & there aren’t parts for them anymore.

Mr. Norris talked about the lack of playground equipment at the Intermediate School. He asked for recommendations of equipment from teachers and the PTO.

9.Other Items/Concerns

Chloe Dean (Student Representative) said that a few of the student went on a tour of the front and they found it exciting. Family Fun night will be coming up.

10. Visitors’ Comments – General

Eric Stuehrmann (West Fallowfield) – thanked the district for the Lenfest program/meeting. He also thanked Mr. Norris for looking into playground equipment. He had some follow-up questions concerning the gifted program. He wondered why the staff was increasing while the numbers of indentified gifted students seemed to be declining.

He also asked if any determination was made concerning posting the minutes sooner to increase community involvement. He found out that a draft copy is distributed in the schools within a few days of the meeting.

He asked about long term plans for language instruction in the Intermediate School.

He talked about the math trends discussed at the last meeting. There are legitimate concerns by the parents. He received the letter from the High School math department after than meeting and found the tone disturbing. It seemed to deflect the issue to the students and parents from the curriculum and the teachers. He was disturbed that it was to be signed for a grade. He felt that was coercion.

Shelly Meadowcroft (Atglen) asked Mr. Stoltzfus if they could discuss at a later time the issues with the fire system. She also wanted to reiterate what Mr. Stuehrmann stated about the letter from the High School math department. She was concerned that it was not on Octorara letterhead nor was it signed by the teachers. She heard that it was put together by the consultant. She was also concerned that the letter being signed by the parents was a homework grade. Her daughter received an “F” because she refused to sign it. She’s not sure what her signing the letter has to do with her daughter’s knowledge of math. She stated that she has taught her children responsibility. She read the parts of the letter that she found objectionable.

Per the PA Department of Education website, members of the community are entitled to certain statistics. One of the statistics that is public information is the pass-rate. She is asking that the high school put together those stats for the last 4 years (including ‘Ds’ in Algebra 2 – since you cannot take Trig with less than a “C” in Algebra 2). She would also like to know how much the consultant is being paid and a list of recommendations from the consultant. She also asked what assessments we are using for graduation. She thinks that perhaps math teachers should collect the homework to see if students are actually getting what is being taught.

She told an anecdotal story concerning the consultant. She ran into a parent at the grocery store whose child told her that the consultant, while observing the class, fell asleep in the class. Mrs. Meadowcroft found another student in the class to confirm the story. In another instance the consultant took a cell phone call in the class while the teacher was teaching.

11. Board Comments

Mr. Stoltzfus said he could address the fire system issue. The Board was under the impression that since the High School had not had a sprinkler system, that the whole thing did not have to be functional until the renovation was complete. However, each section must be functional as it is completed and they are having difficulty with the hook-up of the water lines because of the order of the completion of each section.

Mr. Ganow asked if there was any Administrative response before the Board made comments.
Dr. Newcome said he would like to meet with Mr. Stuehrmann concerning the declining gifted student numbers. He wants to understand his questions before bringing anything back next week.

He found that they can legally place the minutes on the website whenever they want.

The decisions concerning the language program at the Intermediate School was based on the best use of resources.

There will be a presentation concerning math on Nov. 16. They will try to answer many questions at that meeting.

Dr. Newcome said that the letter sent home probably should have been on school letterhead. The math teachers were involved with the letter. It was not meant to offend. It was meant to build collaboration.

Mr. Norris felt that if you were predisposed to read the letter a certain way that is how you would take it. He felt it was targeted to the wrong people.

Mrs. Bowman addressed the language instruction at the Intermediate School. If they had the resources, she’d like to see language instruction in first grade. She also stated there was an article in the Philadelpha Inquirer concerning math and other schools have the same issues.

Mr. Ganow wanted to know if there was any update on the budget since the State passed the budget. Mr. Carsley said the district budgeted for a 4.1% increase & if the numbers hold, the district will actually get 5.2%.

Mr. Stoltzfus asked what it would take to get the minutes out earlier. Dr. Newcome said they would do whatever the board directs.

Mr. Hume wanted to let everyone know that Rep. Houghton is working on revitalization of the area to get a better tax base. He would like to see more letters sent out to get people involved.

Mr. Ganow wanted to clarify that Mr. Norris is looking into the playground equipment as a private citizen. It is not board-driven.



12. Adjournment
Executive Session Monday, October 12, 2009 - 7:00 p.m. in the Octorara
District Office Conference Room.

Policy Committee Meeting – Monday, October 19, 2009 – 6:30 p.m. in the
Octorara District Office Conference Room

Next regularly scheduled Board Meeting – Monday, October 19, 2009 – 7:30

p.m. in the Octorara Middle School Multi-Purpose Room
Facility Committee Meeting – Monday, November 9, 2009 – 6:30 p.m. in the
Octorara District Office Conference Room

Next regularly scheduled Work Session – Monday, November 9, 2009– 7:30 p.m.
Octorara Middle School Multi-Purpose Room

Answer to a question

After Monday evening's meeting, I went home & searched the minutes from July 2008 - July 2009. I wasn't able to find where Elena Wilson had been voted on for the Assistant Principal position. I e-mailed Mr. Norris, who followed up with Dr. Newcome. Below is Dr. Newcome's response:

What I was able to reconstruct:

During the March 9, 2009 budget discussion a slide (Slide 14) from a power point presentation by Dan Carsley with the following text was presented and discussed:

LITERACY COORDINATOR REMOVED FROM BUDGET
This position was grant funded. We do not expect to see an increase in the grant funds so we are eliminating this position in order to assure we have the funds to pay for increases in salary and benefits for the teaching positions funded by the grant.
Ms. Elena Wilson served in this position and we have transferred her to the open position of Assistant Principal for Grades 5 through 8 in the Intermediate and Middle Schools.
If we have enough money in the grant we will be asking the Board to allow us to hire a halftime Dean of Students for OIS and place Ms. Wilson in the OMS as Assistant Principal half time and have her serve as Literacy Coordinator for the secondary half time.
This item does not affect the General fund.

This would never have been an action item since it was a transfer from one administrative position to another. However, it would be an information item and it appears I neglected to get this on an agenda as an information item. I apologize for that mistake – I would have sworn it was done. But it was not that we were trying to keep secrets from the public as evidenced by the forthright manner it was presented in the budget presentation. Elena’s salary was approved by the Board with all salaries. The Board was given a copy of administrative salaries in executive session and we had a discussion about them before they went to the public vote. So her new salary was publicly voted on – her transfer was not presented as an official information item – but the Board and the public had the opportunity to get the information.

Brian Dikun was hired using funds generated from alternative education and the half of the funds we secured by paying Elena half of her salary through a grant for literacy coordinator. If we lose the grant funds – we would need to switch funds back to Elena from Brian Dikun. We would either need to cut half his position or fund another half position through the general fund. If we cut half a position – Elena would be shared between OMS and OIS – we would lose the literacy coordinator piece of her position.

Bottom line – Ellen is correct. There is no statement in the minutes from a Board meeting under information items that officially informs the public of the transfer from one administrative position to another.

Bottom line #2 – Elena’s salary and thus her position was Board approved.

Hope this helps – I will speak to it on Monday at the meeting.

Tom N.


I thank them both for their quick response (much quicker than I at posting it).

I am still trying to figure out how "literacy coordinator" is an administrative position.... does that mean that all of the "literacy coordinators" in the district are administrative positions?

Octorara School Board Work Session 08/10/2009

OCTORARA AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT
WORK SESSION August 10, 2009 – 7:30 p.m.
Octorara Intermediate School Library
DISCUSSION GUIDE

l. Lord’s Prayer
2. Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag

3. Roll Call

all present

4.Visitors’ Comments - Agenda Items Only

none

5. Presentations:

A. Activity Fees – Jim Weagley, Scott Rohrer

Dr. Newcome asked that Brian Wenzka (Octorara Y.M.C.A.) be permitted to present a letter concerning facility usage fees as he had asked to be placed on the agenda.

Mr. Wenzka turned it over to Rob Wishneski (Octorara Y.M.C.A. Board Member). Mr. Wishneski distributed a letter prepared by the Octorara Y Board and read the letter aloud. (Note: the contents of the letter will be published on this blog when I receive an electronic copy).

Mr. Weagley presented the recommended policy for the approved Activity Fee. From the handout: "Beginning in the fall of 2009 all Octorara students in grades 7 - 12 participating in the school athletic program will be required to pay an activity fee" "Students will pay $35 to participate in the first sport and $10 for the second. Participation in the third sport will be free."
"Once the pre-season practice period has finished and rosters have been finalized, each team will be scheduled in the computer lab for athletic eligibility registration. Parents will be informed about when the activity fee payment is due via the following communication: 1) The coaching staff will announce to their teams the date of te team athletic eligibility registration and 2) the schedule will be presented under the "athletics" heading on the school district website octorara.k12.pa.us as well as the "Chalkboard" section of highschoolsports.net."
"If paying by check, checks should be made payable to "Octorara Area High School".
"In order to be eligible to play in games, students must pay their activity fee prior to the first regular season contest."

Mr. Hume stated that this is not a large part of the budget. He opposes the fees. His opinion is that if the school has an activity, the school should pay for it. This could possibly create more problems than it solves.

Mr. Weagley replied that he was directed to find ways to increase revenues for sports. Mr. Weagley offered his opinion that he also does not like it.

Mr. Hershey reminded the Board members that they already voted on this.

Mr. Norris questioned the confidentiality of students who receive free lunches (as they will not have to pay the fee).

Mr. Weagley replied that the coaches would not be involved in the collection of the fee. They would only receive a list of who is eligible to play.

Mr. Malone asked who would enforce this at gametime. Mr. Weagley stated that he would be enforcing it.

Gina Reid from Atglen asked if the money would go to the team.

Mr. Weagley said that it would go into the general athletic fund.

Mr. Norris said that he appreciated the finer points outlined this evening and wished they would have been available a few months ago. He reiterated that he still does not agree with the fee.

6. Information Items:

A. Ms. Lori Boldt will transfer from an assignment of ½ day kindergarten teacher and ½ day teacher at the Octorara Intermediate School to a second grade teacher at the Octorara Primary Learning Center for the 2009-2010 and 2010­2011 school years. (Replacing Laura Fischer who transferred.)

7. Presentation of Agenda Items for the August 17, 2009 Regular Monthly Public Meeting:


Resignation Approvals:
A. That the Octorara Board of School Directors accept Ms. Sylvia Whitney’s resignation as a Title 1 Aide at the Octorara Intermediate School effective July 29, 2009. (Hired August 25, 2008)

Hiring Approvals:
B. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve the employment of the
following substitutes for the Summer Reading Program: Lori Boldt at a rate of $22 per hour Rebecca Wagner at a rate of $10 per hour

C. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve the addition to the employment of Ms. Avis Benard from a ½ time kindergarten to a full-time kindergarten teacher at the Octorara Primary Learning Center effective August 26, 2009. Ms. Benard’s salary will be $66,624 which is Step 17 of the Master’s Scale. (Replacing Lori Boldt who transferred.)

Ms. Benard was the 1/2 time volunteer coordinator. That position was eliminated. Ms. Benard took a 1/2 Kindergarten position and when the other 1/2 time position came up, she asked to be full-time.

Mr. Ganow wanted to know if half-time went toward the steps. Dr. Newcome will check.

D. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve the employment of Ms. Alison Fell as a long-term substitute art teacher at the Octorara High School pending completion of employee related documents required by law and the district. Ms. Fell’s salary will be $43,741, pro-rated, which is Step 1 of the Bachelor’s Scale effective August 26, 2009 for 94.5 days. (Replacing Sarah Roenigk who is on sabbatical leave.)

E. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve the employment of Ms. Fallon Jordan on a Temporary Professional Employee Contract as a learning support teacher at the Octorara Elementary School pending completion of employee related documents required by law and the district. Ms. Jordan’s salary will be $43,741 which is Step 1 of the Bachelor’s Scale effective August 26, 2009. (Replacing Anita Ungerbuehler who resigned.)

F. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve the employment of Ms. Amy Steinmetz on a Professional Employee Contract as a literacy coach at the Octorara Elementary School pending completion of employee related documents required by law and the district. Ms. Steinmetz’s salary will be $54,478 which is Step 9 of the Master’s Scale effective August 26, 2009. (Replacing Aleta Connell who transferred.)

Mr. Ganow wanted to know if this was a new-hire to the district. Dr. Newcome said that it was.

G. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve the employment of Mr. Brian Dikun as half-time Assistant Principal at the Octorara Intermediate School and half-time Director of Alternative Education effective August 3, 2009. Mr. Dikun is currently a fourth grade teacher at the Octorara Elementary School. This is a 10 ½ month position at a salary of $72,715.

The question was asked about the number of students included at this time. There are currently 7 non-IEP students and 1 who would have gone to Chester County High School.


H. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve the employment of Bridget Fogarty on a Temporary Professional Employee Contract as ½ time special ed teacher at the Octorara Elementary School and ½ time alternative education teacher at the Octorara High School pending completion of employee related documents required by law and the district. Ms. Fogarty’s salary will be $49,465 which is Step 3 of the Master’s Scale effective August 26, 2009.

Dr. Newcome stated that this would be looked at later in the meeting.

I. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve the following changes in salary due to graduate credits earned:
Doreen Creighton From B ($44,295) to B+15 ($47,580) Step 3
Timothy Ergler From B+15 ($47,579) to M ($49,465) Step 3
Margaret Forchetti From M+45 ($80,343) to M+60 ($82,505) Step 21
Christine Gray From M ($56,149) to M+15 ($60,675) Step 11
Tom Hurley From M ($57,895) to M+15 ($62,206) Step12
Matt Livingood From M ($50,301) to M+15 ($55,181) Step 4 Alison Mannetta From B ($44,295) to B+15 ($47,579) Step 3
Tim Mundy From M+30 ($79,681) to M+45 ($81,847) Step 22
Megan Munn From B+15 ($50,165) to M ($51,972) Step 6
Nina Thwaites From M+30 ($65,731) to M+45 ($68,762) Step 11


J. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve a salary adjustment for Ms. Shirley Miller from $58,936 to $61,996 effective August 26, 2009.

K. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve Ms. Suzanne Schurr’s request for unpaid Family Medical Leave for the purpose of childrearing from approximately November 6, 2009 to April 24, 2010. Ms. Schurr is a 3rd grade teacher at the Octorara Elementary School.

Mr. Ganow wanted to know if this was all unpaid. Dr. Newcome will check on it.

L. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve the attached list of substitute teachers, substitute emergency permit teachers, and substitute support staff for the 2009-2010 school year.

Mr. Ganow wanted to know if it would be in next week's packet.

M. That the Octorara Board of School Directors approve the attached list of supplemental contracts for the 2009-2010 school year.

Same as above

8.Facilities Committee Report

Mr. Stoltzfus reported on the construction. The back is scheduled to be completed in December, however, it may be finished sooner. The project is 42% complete. The rest will take longer, since they will have to move students around. The athletic fields are being worked on.

9. Other Items/Concerns

Mr. Malone wanted to know how the state budget impass would impact the district budget. Mr. Carsely said that if they collect 90-95% of property tax, along with Federal funds, it would take the district through February 2010.

10. Visitors’ Comments – General

Sandy Reel (Highland Twp) wanted to know about the Alternative Ed program. The district will send her information.

Rob Wishneski (Highland Twp) had some questions concerning the activity fee. He asked how much was expected to be collected. Mr. Weagley responded they were expecting approx. $19,700. Mr. Wishneski then asked about the facility fee and the response was approx. $20,000. Mr. Wishneski asked about the total budget & was told it was approx. $ 44 million.
He also asked the cost of football. Mr. Weagley said that football costs $44,000. Mr. Wishneski wanted to know if it was cost effective to charge the activity fee and was the Board just picking the low-hanging fruit. He asked the Board to think about the socio-economic impact to students.

Mr. Hershey stated that the Board had 'wrangled' with it for months.

Mr. Malone agreed with Mr. Wishneski, but stated that he had voted for the activity fee to not hold up the budget process.

The question was asked if the facility fee is in the budget. The answer was the an amount is in the budget, but the details haven't been worked out.

Mary Jaye Tyson-Hampton (Londonderry) wanted to know if there was a limit per family. Mr. Weagley stated that he chose a low end fee. He realizes that there are some situations where it may still be a hardship.

Gina Reid (Atglen) wanted to know if it was typical that something was voted on without the policy bieng in place or was it done out of necessity to pass the budget. Mr. Hershey stated that it was not typical. Mr. Weagley stated that what was presented tonight was the administrative piece. Mr. Ganow said that the budget was the driving force.

Ms. Reid also wanted to know when the fee assessment details were presented. Dr. Newcome said that the budget was built and then they backfilled it. The Board needed to decide to assess the fee, then figure it out.

Dr. Newcome wanted to know who he was supposed to speak to at the Y. He felt as though he was passed around.

Ms. Reid felt her question about policies was not fully answered. She wanted to know if the public should attend the policy meetings. Dr. Newcome gave the date & time.

Mr. Wishneski had additional questions about the facility fees - who would be charged? Will non-profits be charged - according to the schedule, some will and some won't. How was that determined? He also asked how the board could vote on something without the details.

Mr. Hershey stated that a lot had been cut out of the budget & he had praise for the Administration.

Ellen Brown (Atglen) had a couple of questions. She asked for statistics on Octorara students. For students who are involved in activities, how many go on to further their education and how many don't? For students who aren't involved, how many go on to further their education and how many don't? How many students not involved drop out?

The second question concerned salaries. She noticed that there was a salary attached to Brian Dikun's new position, but there wasn't a salary attached to Mr. Rohrer's new position last month. Dr. Newcome stated that Mr. Rohrer's salary did not change and was according to his contract - approx. $120,000.

The third question concerned the sports budgets. There was a budget for Boys' soccer attached to the activity fee procedure - is it possible to get that for all sports? Dr. Newcome had actual data there & distributed it.

Scott Grimes (Parkesburg) wanted to know if the activity fee would be waived for lacrosse as they are self-funded. The answer was 'yes'.

He also wanted to know if there was any thought to rededicating a field as the "Betsy Handy Field", since the middle school field is now a parking lot. He suggested that the Varsity Field be dedicated & asked the Board to consider it.

Kent Buohl(Parkesburg) asked if the activity fee could expand to other activities in the future. Mr. Hershey said, "Yes."

Brian Wenzka wanted to clarify the discussions betweent the District and the Y. He understands Dr. Newcome's frustration. The Y's management structure is complex, but provides good checks & balances. He cannot make the final decisions concerning finances. That is deferred to his supervisor. However, she will not make a decision that the local Y Board is not comfortable with.

Lennie Brown (Atglen) handed out invitations to Board Members to the High School Girl's Soccer "Girls' Night Out".

11. Board Comments

Ms. Bowman feels that the activity fee is a bargain and parents should not mind paying it. She believes that the booster organizations should help out.

Mr. Mango stated that the Budget process starts early & encourages people to come out.

Mr. Hume supports the Y and hopes that the Board doesn't sent the message that they don't support the Y.

Mr. Malone wanted to mention that Newsweek recognized Octorara as a top public high school based on Advanced Placement Data. Congratulations to the High School.

Mr. Ganow stated that they are the Board of Directors of a $40+ Million entity and Dr. Newcome is the CEO. He felt the Y letter was patronizing.

Ms. Bowman said she is a supporter of the Y, but she is concerned about the wear & tear of the facilities.

12. Adjournment


Policy Committee Meeting – Monday, August 17, 2009 – 6:30 p.m. Octorara Intermediate School Faculty Room

Next regularly scheduled Board Meeting – Monday, August 17, 2009 – 7:30 p.m. Octorara Intermediate School Library

Facility Committee Meeting – Monday, September 14, 2009 – 6:30 p.m. Octorara District Office Conference Room

Next regularly scheduled Work Session – Monday, September 14, 2009– 7:30
p.m. Octorara Middle School Multi-Purpose Room

Executive Session for Personnel will be held following this meeting in the Octorara Intermediate School Faculty Room.

Some Positive News

Here is some positive news for the Octorara School District!!!

http://articles.lancasteronline.com/local/4/240532

Kudos to Mr. Udell for submitting the paperwork. And thanks to the district for offering the AP courses.... Can we "up" the push in our Academic level courses as well?