Board of Education Meeting Minutes

March 17, 2009

ATTENDANCE: Rosa Murray, Chair; Jody Bishop-Pullan, Vice Chair; Jack Chiaramonte, Secretary; Glenn Iannaccone, Susan Hamilton, Shirley Mosby, Migdalia Rivas, Greg Burnett, Amy Jimenez

STAFF: Dr. Salvatore Corda, Superintendent of Education

CALL TO ORDER

Ms. Murray called the meeting to order at 7:50 p.m.

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

Ms. Murray led those present in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance.

SPOTLIGHT ON NORWALK PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Mr. Chiaramonte presented the report to the Board.

SUPERINTENDENT’S REPORT

Dr. Corda then said that he and Dr. Cook had attended a meeting in Hartford with Dr. McQuillan, the Commissioner of Education, and he would like to present the information that he had received on the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA). He explained that not all the details had been finalized and that there were many items that still needed to be clarified. He then gave a PowerPoint presentation on the ARRA proposal to those present. There were also hard copies of the slides available for those present.

Ms. Rivas asked how the government would be monitoring the use of the funding. Dr. Corda said that he believed that the federal government would be coming in to audit the use of the funds. Ms. Rivas asked if the funding would be kept separate from the regular City funding. Dr. Corda said that the funds would be handled in the same manner as the Title One programs, which are separate from the regular City Funding.

Ms. Rivas asked how the parents, different cultures and those with disabilities would be part of this program. Dr. Corda said that it was too early to tell, but then gave an example of increasing parental involvement as suggested in the CREC report. Discussion then followed about Ms. Rivas’ concerns in this matter.

Ms. Jimenez asked for clarification on a previous statement regarding possible revisions in the program. Dr. Corda explained that he was led to believe that there could be reassignment of funding if it was approved. There also needs to be further clarification from the State about the criteria for this type of change.

Dr. Corda said that if any new or additional information comes out, he would be sure to forward it with the Board.

Mr. Burnett said that in the information was presented, it was clear that there would be a great deal of work in a very short time, but that it was a wonderful opportunity. Dr. Corda agreed and then explained several aspects of various programs that could be expanded with the use of these funds.

PUBLIC COMMENT

Mr. David Davidson came forward and said that at the BOE/BET meeting, he had not been allowed to comment, but later sent an email to Mr. Wilms, the Chairman. He said that he was pleased with the openness and transparency that was demonstrated by the budget process.

Mr. Sam Alesevich came forward and distributed a copy of a document to the Board and to those present. He then gave a brief overview of the Technology Education Department. Two of the members of the department announced their retirement, and it was decided not to replace the staff. This represents a total of reduction of 40% in staffing. His department is an elective area and the enrollment remains high. However because of the lack of staff, Mr. Alesevich had to drop several of the advanced classes. He then asked how a student was to start a career as an electrician if they can’t take the advanced courses they need. The students that are not in these classes will be squeezed into study halls, which is something that the Board has been concerned with in the past. He then thanked the Board for their time.

ACTIONS

Approval of Transfers

** MR. CHIARAMONTE MOVED THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION:

RESOLVED, UPON THE RECOMMENDATION OF THE SUPERINTENDENT OF SCHOOLS, THAT THE BOARD OF EDUCATION APPROVE THE ATTACHED BUDGET TRANSFERS:

THE SUM OF $250.00 FROM ACCOUNT NUMBER 13724100-733-37 (MARVIN PRINC. – INSTR. SOFTWARE TO ACCOUNT NUMBER 13724100-690-37 (MARVIN PRINC. – OTHER SUPPLIES AND MATERIALS) TO PURCHASE AN ADDITIONAL 60 CASES OF PAPER TO SUPPORT THE INSTRUCTIONAL PROGRAMS AT MARVIN SCHOOL. THE REASON THAT WE ARE ORDERING PAPER NOW IS THAT WE HAVE LIMITED STORAGE FOR PAPER. ADDITIONALLY, IF PAPER SITS IN OUR STOREROOM FOR TOO LONG, THERE IS A RISK IT WILL BECOME DAMP AND JAM THE COPY MACHINE. BETWEEN NOW AND THE END OF THE SCHOOL YEAR WE WILL CONTINUE TO USE COPY PAPER IN ORDER TO SUPPORT OUR PROGRAM INCLUDING THE PRINTING OF TEACHER NEWSLETTERS, PROGRESS REPORTS AND CREATION OF PACKETS THAT THE CHILDREN USE DURING SPRING BREAK.

THE SUM OF $2,000.00 FROM ACCOUNT NUMBER 10524100-614-05 (NHS POSTAGE) TO ACCOUNT NUMBER 15725200-614-57 (ACCOUNTS PAYABLE POSTAGE) TO KEEP SUFFICIENT AMOUNT IN POSTAGE MACHINE. NHS IS REQUESTING TO MOVE FUND FROM THE SCHOOL POSTAGE ACCOUNT, OBJECT 614, TO THE CENTRAL OFFICE POSTAGE ACCOUNT, OBJECT 614. (THIS IS THE PROCESS OF BUYING POSTAGE FOR THE SCHOOLS.) THIS WILL ALLOW NHS TO MEET POSTAGE EXPENSES FOR SENDING PPT LETTERS, MID-YEAR GRADES TO COLLEGES, CAPT LETTERS AND GENERAL MAILING THAT THE SCHOOL DOES. ALSO IT WILL ALLOW US TO PAY FOR THE POSTAGE COSTS FOR MAILING TO PARENTS REGARDING OUR NEW PERIOD ATTENDANCE PROGRAM. (THIS ISSUE OF ATTENDANCE HAS LEAD [SIC] TO INCREASE POSTAGE COSTS.)

THE SUM OF $297.00 FROM ACCOUNT NUMBER 13724100-810-37 (MARVIN PRINC. DUES, FEES & MEMBERSHIPS) TO ACCOUNT NUMBER 13724100-690-37 (MARVIN PRINC. OTHER SUPPLIES AND MATERIALS) TO PURCHASE AN ADDITIONAL 60 CASES OF PAPER TO SUPPORT THE INSTRUCTIONAL PROGRAMS AT MARVIN SCHOOL. THE REASON THAT WE ARE ORDERING PAPER NOW IS THAT WE HAVE LIMITED STORAGE FOR PAPER. ADDITIONALLY, IF PAPER SITS IN OUR STOREROOM FOR TOO LONG, THERE IS A RISK IT WILL BECOME DAMP AND JAM THE COPY MACHINE. BETWEEN NOW AND THE END OF THE SCHOOL YEAR WE WILL CONTINUE TO USE COPY PAPER IN ORDER TO SUPPORT OUR PROGRAM INCLUDING THE PRINTING OF TEACHER NEWSLETTERS, PROGRESS REPORTS AND CREATION OF PACKETS THAT THE CHILDREN USE DURING SPRING BREAK.

THE SUM OF $1,297.76 FROM ACCOUNT NUMBER 13724100-690-37 (MARVIN PROF. DEVELOP. SALARIES & WORKSH) TO ACCOUNT NUMBER 13724100-690-37 (MARVIN PRINC. OTHER SUPPLIES & MATERIALS) TO PURCHASE AN ADDITIONAL 60 CASES OF PAPER TO SUPPORT THE INSTRUCTIONAL PROGRAMS AT MARVIN SCHOOL. THE REASON THAT WE ARE ORDERING PAPER NOW IS THAT WE HAVE LIMITED STORAGE FOR PAPER. ADDITIONALLY, IF PAPER SITS IN OUR STOREROOM FOR TOO LONG, THERE IS A RISK IT WILL BECOME DAMP AND JAM THE COPY MACHINE. BETWEEN NOW AND THE END OF THE SCHOOL YEAR WE WILL CONTINUE TO USE COPY PAPER IN ORDER TO SUPPORT OUR PROGRAM INCLUDING THE PRINTING OF TEACHER NEWSLETTERS, PROGRESS REPORTS AND CREATION OF PACKETS THAT THE CHILDREN USE DURING SPRING BREAK.

THE SUM OF $750.00 FROM ACCOUNT NUMBER 10511080-611-05 (NHS P.E. SUPPLIES) TO ACCOUNT NUMBER 10532001-430-05 (NHS INTERSCHOOL. REPAIR AND MAINT. SERVICES) FO REPAIRS AND REPLACEMENTS IN THE NHS WEIGHT ROOM FITNESS CENTER.

THE SUM OF $649.00 FROM ACCOUNT NUMBER 1052220-642-05 (NHS LIBRARY – LIBRARY BOOKS & PERIODICALS) TO ACCOUNT NUMBER 1052220-730-05 FOR COMPUTER WITH MONITOR FOR CIRCULATION DESK TO SUPERVISE STUDENTS USING LAPTOPS.

THE SUM OF $382.00 FROM ACCOUNT NUMBER 11622230-643-16 (PONUS RIDGE AUDIO VISUAL) TO ACCOUNT NUMBER 11622230-730-16 (PONUS RIDGE AUDIOVISUAL INSTR. EQUIPMENT) TO PURCHASE CALIFONE LISTENING CENTER/MEDIA PLAYER AND HEADPHONES.

THE SUM OF 713.00 FROM ACCOUNT NUMBER 11611050-611-16 (PONUS RIDGE LANG. ARTS INSTR. SUPPLIES) TO ACCOUNT NUMBER (11611050-730-16) TO COVER THE COST OF VISUAL PRESENTER FOR ENHANCING CLASSROOM LESSONS.

THE SUM OF 713.00 FROM ACCOUNT NUMBER 11611150-611-16 (PONUS RIDGE SOC. STUDIES INSTR. SUPPLIES) TO ACCOUNT NUMBER (11611050-730-16) TO COVER THE COST OF VISUAL PRESENTER FOR ENHANCING CLASSROOM LESSONS.

THE SUM OF $250.00 FROM ACCOUNT NUMBER 11611080-730-16 (PONUS RIDGE P.E. INSTR. EQUIP.) TO ACCOUNT NUMBER 11611080-611-16 (PONUS RIDGE P.E. INSTR. SUPPLIES) TO COVER THE COST OF AWARD MEDALS FOR STUDENTS IN P.E. AND HEALTH.

THE SUM OF $325.00 FROM ACCOUNT NUMBER 11611210-730-16 (PONUS RIDGE UNIFIED ARTS INSTR. EQUIP.) TO ACCOUNT NUMBER 11611210-611-16) TO PURCHASE SUPPLIES/COOKING MATERIALS FOR FAMILY AND CONSUMER SCIENCE DEPARTMENT.

THE SUM OF $1,597.50 FROM ACCOUNT NUMBER 13222199-330-32 (JEFFERSON OTHER PROF. TECH SERVICES) TO ACCOUNT NUMBER 13222199-430-32 (JEFFERSON REPAIRS & MAINT. SERVICES) FOR NEW BUDGET LINE ITEM SET UP FOR SCIENCE RELATED SUBJECTS. AS A MAGNET SCHOOL WITH A PARTNERSHIP WITH THE MARITIME AQUARIUM, WE HAVE MANY AQUARIUMS THROUGH OUT THE BUILDING. EACH AHS ITS OWN HABITAT AND REQUIRES INDIVIDUAL CARE. WE HAVE BEEN PAYING A BIOLOGIST TO MAINTENANCE THESE TANKS FOR SEVERAL YEARS AND THE INVOICES WERE PROCESSED THROUGH OUR 330 ACCOUNT. THIS YEAR WE WERE ADVISED BY FINANCE TO USE A REPAIR AND MAINTENANCE ACCOUNT. THE FUNDS WERE ALWAYS INTENDED TO BE USED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN THE FISH TANKS. WE WERE INFORMED THAT THE JEFFERSON 430 ACCOUNT WAS CREATED TO EXPENDITURES OF THIS TYPE. THIS TRANSFER REQUEST IS INTENDED TO FUND THIS ACCOUNT.

THE SUM OF $3,000.00 FROM ACCOUNT NUMBER 143324100-580-43 (ROWAYTON PRINC. TRAVEL) TO ACCOUNT NUMBER 14324100-644-43 (ROWAYTON PRINC. CONS./WORKBOOKS) FOR “GRAMMAR ISLAND" WORKBOOKS FOR GRADES 3, 4, & 5. THE FUNDS ARE NEEDED FOR CONSUMABLE WORKBOOKS. THESE GRAMMAR WORKBOOKS WILL SUPPORT ALL STUDENTS IN GRADES 3,4, &5. WE WANT TO PURCHASE THE BOOKS THIS SPRING. “GRAMMAR ISLAND” ROYAL FIREWORKS PRESS, ESTIMATED THE COST AT $4,700.00 WITH THE DISCOUNT. THE COMPANY NEEDS TO BE PAID PROMPTLY. ONCE THE TRANSFER IS CLEARED, WE WILL PROCESS THE ORDER. AS MEASURED BY OUR WEAK CMT AREAS RELATED TO GRAMMAR, WE NEED A SPECIFIC GRAMMAR PROGRAM THAT IS CONSISTENT IN GRADES 3-5 THAT WILL IMPROVE OUR INSTRUCTION IN THIS AREA AS WELL AS OUR CMT SCORES.

THE SUM OF $3,000.00 FROM ACCOUNT NUMBER 14328320-580-43 (ROWAYTON PROF. DEV. OTHER PROF. TECH SVS.) TO ACCOUNT NUMBER 14324100-644-43 (ROWAYTON PRINC. CONS./WORKBOOKS) FOR “GRAMMAR ISLAND" WORKBOOKS FOR GRADES 3, 4, & 5. THE FUNDS ARE NEEDED FOR CONSUMABLE WORKBOOKS. THESE GRAMMAR WORKBOOKS WILL SUPPORT ALL STUDENTS IN GRADES 3,4, &5. WE WANT TO PURCHASE THE BOOKS THIS SPRING. “GRAMMAR ISLAND” ROYAL FIREWORKS PRESS, ESTIMATED THE COST AT $4,700.00 WITH THE DISCOUNT. THE COMPANY NEEDS TO BE PAID PROMPTLY. ONCE THE TRANSFER IS CLEARED, WE WILL PROCESS THE ORDER. AS MEASURED BY OUR WEAK CMT AREAS RELATED TO GRAMMAR, WE NEED A SPECIFIC GRAMMAR PROGRAM THAT IS CONSISTENT IN GRADES 3-5 THAT WILL IMPROVE OUR INSTRUCTION IN THIS AREA AS WELL AS OUR CMT SCORES.

THE SUM OF $450.00 FROM ACCOUNT NUMBER 14928320-330-49 (WOLFPIT PROF. DEVELOP. TECH SERVICES) TO ACCOUNT NUMBER 14928320-133-49 (WOLFPIT PROF. DEVELOP. SALARIES/WORKSHOP) FOR SUBSTITUTE TEACHERS COVERING FOR TEACHERS ATTENDING PROFESSIONAL WORKSHOPS.

THE SUM OF $539.10 FROM ACCOUNT NUMBER 14928320-330-49 (WOLFPIT PROF. DEVELOP. OTHER TECH SERVICES) TO ACCOUNT NUMBER 14928320-133-49 (WOLFPIT PROF. DEVELOP. SALARIES/WORKSHOP) FOR SUBSTITUTE TEACHERS COVERING FOR TEACHERS ATTENDING PROFESSIONAL WORKSHOPS.

THE SUM OF $100.00 FROM ACCOUNT NUMBER 12824100-810-28 (FOX RUN PRINC. DUES, FEES & MEMBERS.) TO ACCOUNT NUMBER 12824100-739-28 (FOX RUN PRINC. NON-INSTR. EQUIPMENT) TO PURCHASE A FOUR DRAWER FILE CABINET FOR THE PRINCIPAL’S OFFICE.

THE SUM OF $420.00 FROM ACCOUNT NUMBER 10322220-611-03 (BMHS LIBRARY INSTR. SUPPLIES) TO ACCOUNT NUMBER 10322220-730-03 (BMHS LIBRARY INSTR. EQUIPMENT) TO PURCHASE 2 CHAIRS FOR THE LIBRARY.

THE SUM OF $825.00 FROM ACCOUNT NUMBER 103110090-611-03 (BMHS HOME EC. INSTR. SUPPLIES) TO ACCOUNT NUMBER 103110090-730-03 (BMHS HOME EC. INSTR. EQUIPMENT) TO PURCHASE A DIGITAL CAMERA FOR USE BY STUDENTS IN FAMILY/CONSUMER SCIENCE CLASSES.

THE SUM OF $154.00 FROM ACCOUNT NUMBER 10311080-611-03 (BMHS P.E. INSTR. SUPPLIES) TO ACCOUNT NUMBER 10311080-730-03 (BMHS P.E. INSTR. EQUIP) TO PURCHASE WALL MOUNT FOR TV FOR USE IN HEALTH AND P.E. CLASS.

THE SUM OF $2,600.00 FROM ACCOUNT NUMBER 15411050-611-54 (INSTR. LANG. ARTS – INSTR. SUPPLIES) TO ACCOUNT NUMBER 15411050-301-54 (INSTR. LANG. ARTS – ATTENDANCE AT MEETINGS) FOR THE COST OF 15 M.S. TEACHERS TO ATTEND WORKSHOP ON MAY 1, 2009 IN HARTFORD. IN ORDER TO ALLOW 16 TEACHERS TO ATTEND THE NANCY ATWELL PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT TRAINING COURSE, WHICH IS ENTITLED “LESSON THAT CHANGE WRITERS” THIS TRANSFER IS REQUESTED. FUNDS WILL BE TAKEN FROM THE CENTRAL OFFICE LANGUAGE ARTS SUPPLY ACCOUNT TO COVER THE COST.

THE SUM OF $720.00 FROM ACCOUNT NUMBER 15411050-611-54 (INSTR. LANG. ARTS – INSTR. SUPPLIES) TO ACCOUNT NUMBER 15411050-133-54 (INSTR. LANG. ARTS – SALARIES/WORKSHOPS TO COVER THE COST OF 8 SUBSTITUTE TEACHERS ON MAY 1, 2009 WORKSHOP

THE SUM OF $900.00 FROM ACCOUNT NUMBER 15411050-611-54 (INSTR. LANG. ARTS – INSTR. SUPPLIES) TO ACCOUNT NUMBER 15411050-133-54 (INSTR. LANG. ARTS – SALARIES/WORKSHOPS TO COVER THE COST OF 9 SUBSTITUTE TEACHERS FOR VARIOUS TEACHER PD’S, WORKSHOPS, COMMITTEE MEETINGS.

THE SUM OF $130.00 FROM ACCOUNT NUMBER 15411050-611-54 (INSTR. LANG. ARTS – INSTR. SUPPLIES) TO ACCOUNT NUMBER 15411050-810-54 (INSTR. LANG. ARTS – DUES, FEES & MEMBERSHIPS) TO COVER THE COST OF ASCD RENEWAL MEMBERSHIPS TO EDUCATIONAL RESOURCES.

THE SUM OF $500.00 FROM ACCOUNT NUMBER 15411000-690-54 (ELEM. EDUCATION – OTHER SUPPL. & MATS.) TO ACCOUNT NUMBER 15411000-810-54 (ELEM. EDUCATION – DUES, FEES & MEMBERSHIPS FOR ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP FOR INTERIM DIR. OF ADMIN. – INT’L READING ASSOC., ASCD NAT’L ASSOC. FOR MUSIC ED.

** MR. BURNETT SECONDED.

Ms. Bishop-Pullan then commented that there had been a number of transfers that appeared to be higher for certain schools and that this needed to be looked at carefully.

Mr. Burnett thanked Dr. Cook for the expanded explanations. Mr. Iannaccone said that he agreed, but was still concerned about the fact that Marvin was transferring money from Professional Development for copy paper.

** THE MOTION TO APPROVE THE TRANSFERS PASSED UNANIMOUSLY.

Approval of minutes for March 3, 2009

** MS. BISHOP-PULLAN MOVED THE MINUTES OF MARCH 3, 2009. ** MS. HAMILTON SECONDED.

The following corrections were noted:

Page 11, under the agenda item “Accept resignation of Bruce Kimmel and declare a vacancy on the Board of Education” please change the following motion from:

** MS. RIVAS MOVED THE FOLLOWING RECOMMENDATION:

RESOLVED, THAT THE BOARD OF EDUCATION ACCEPT MR. BRUCE KIMMEL’S LETTER OF RESIGNATION FROM THE NORWALK BOARD OF EDUCATION AND DECLARE A VACANCY IN THE OFFICE CURRENTLY HELD BY BOARD OF EDUCATION BRUCE KIMMEL.

Ms. Murray said that she would like to thank Mr. Kimmel for his years of service. Ms. Mosby said that she would miss him.

** THE MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY.

TO: ** MS. RIVAS MOVED THE FOLLOWING RECOMMENDATION:

RESOLVED, THAT THE BOARD OF EDUCATION ACCEPT MR. BRUCE KIMMEL’S LETTER OF RESIGNATION FROM THE NORWALK BOARD OF EDUCATION AND DECLARE A VACANCY IN THE OFFICE CURRENTLY HELD BY BOARD OF EDUCATION BRUCE KIMMEL.

** MS. BISHOP-PULLAN SECONDED.

Ms. Murray said that she would like to thank Mr. Kimmel for his years of service. Ms. Mosby said that she would miss him

** THE MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY.

Page 12 under “Approve Board Policy - Outside Consultant/Service Providers” please change the following motion from:

** MS. BISHOP-PULLAN MOVED THE FOLLOWING RECOMMENDATION:

RESOLVED, UPON THE RECOMMENDATION OF THE SUPERINTENDENT OF SCHOOLS, THAT THE BOARD OF EDUCATION APPROVE POLICY – OUTSIDE CONSULTANTS/SERVICE PROVIDERS.

Ms. Bishop-Pullan said that while there was still some discussion about this in the committee, the committee did not want to hold up the policy in response to the recent problems. She then recommended that this be placed in Section 4126.

** THE MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY.

TO:

** MS. BISHOP-PULLAN MOVED THE FOLLOWING RECOMMENDATION:

RESOLVED, UPON THE RECOMMENDATION OF THE SUPERINTENDENT OF SCHOOLS, THAT THE BOARD OF EDUCATION APPROVE POLICY – OUTSIDE CONSULTANTS/SERVICE PROVIDERS.

** MR. BURNETT SECONDED.

Ms. Bishop-Pullan said that while there was still some discussion about this in the committee, the committee did not want to hold up the policy in response to the recent problems. She then recommended that this be placed in Section 4126.

** THE MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY.

Page 15, under agenda item “DISCUSSION BY PARENT/GUARDIAN WITH BOARD: RE STUDENT PERSONNEL MATTER”, please change the following from:

** MR BURNETT MOVED TO ENTER INTO EXECUTIVE SESSION FOR THE PURPOSES OF DISCUSSING A PERSONNEL MATTER. ** MR. IANNACCONE SECONDED. ** THE MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY.

TO:

** MR BURNETT MOVED TO ENTER INTO EXECUTIVE SESSION FOR THE PURPOSES OF DISCUSSING A STUDENT PERSONNEL MATTER. ** MR. IANNACCONE SECONDED. ** THE MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY.

** THE MOTION TO APPROVE THE MINUTES OF MARCH 3, 2009 AS CORRECTED PASSED WITH SEVEN IN FAVOR (MURRAY, BISHOP-PULLAN, IANNACCONE, HAMILTON, BURNETT, RIVAS AND MOSBY) TWO ABSTENTIONS (CHIARAMONTE AND JIMENEZ)

Approval of field trips:

Roton Middle School Grade 6 to Nature’s Classroom

** MS. RIVAS MOVED TO APPROVE THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION:

RESOLVED, UPON THE RECOMMENDATION OF THE SUPERINTENDENT OF SCHOOLS, THAT THE BOARD OF EDUCATION APPROVE THE ATTACHED FIELD TRIP:

ROTON MIDDLE SCHOOL GRADE 6 TO NATURE’S CLASSROOM – IVORYTON, CT 11/16/09 – 11/20/09.

** MS. HAMILTON SECONDED. ** THE MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY.

Authorization for Board chair to appoint two BOE members to BOE/BET/Common Council Finance Joint Committee.

** MR. IANNACCONE MOVED TO APPROVE THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION:

RESOLVED, UPON THE RECOMMENDATION OF THE SUPERINTENDENT OF SCHOOLS, THAT THE BOARD OF EDUCATION AUTHORIZE THE BOARD CHAIR TO APPOINT TWO BOE MEMBERS TO BOE/BET/COMMON COUNCIL FINANCE JOINT COMMITTEE (Jack Chiaramonte, Rosa Murray).

** MR. CHIARAMONTE SECONDED. ** THE MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY.

Authorization for Board chair to appoint one BOE member to Human Services Council Member (Greg Burnett) Advisory Board.

** MS. RIVAS MOVED TO APPROVE THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION:

RESOLVED, UPON THE RECOMMENDATION OF THE SUPERINTENDENT OF SCHOOLS, THAT THE BOARD OF EDUCATION AUTHORIZE THE BOARD CHAIR TO APPOINT ONE BOE MEMBER TO HUMAN SERVICES COUNCIL MEMBER ADVISORY BOARD.

** MS. HAMILTON SECONDED. ** THE MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY.

Authorization for Board chair to appoint two BOE members to monitor the implementation of recommendations from the Spectrum Kids inquiry.

** MS. JIMENEZ MOVED THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION:

RESOLVED, UPON THE RECOMMENDATION OF THE SUPERINTENDENT OF SCHOOLS, THAT THE BOARD OF EDUCATION AUTHORIZE THE BOARD CHAIR TO APPOINT TWO BOE MEMBERS TO MONITOR THE IMPLEMENTATION OF RECOMMENDATIONS FROM THE SPECTRUM KIDS INQUIRY.

** MS. HAMILTON SECONDED. ** THE MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY.

Mr. Burnett asked for clarification as to whether this item should be referred to the entire Curriculum Committee or would involve just two members of the Curriculum Committee. Ms. Murray said that the entire Curriculum Committee should be following the CREC report. A brief discussion followed regarding amending the motion to clarify this matter.

** MS. RIVAS MOVED TO RECONSIDER THE VOTE ON THE AUTHORIZATION FOR BOARD CHAIR TO APPOINT TWO BOE MEMBERS TO MONITOR THE IMPLEMENTATION OF RECOMMENDATIONS FROM THE SPECTRUM KIDS INQUIRY. ** MS. MURRAY SECONDED. ** THE MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY.

** MS. RIVAS MOVED TO APPOINT THE BOARD OF EDUCATION CURRICULUM COMMITTEE TO MONITOR THE IMPLEMENTATION OF RECOMMENDATIONS FROM THE SPECTRUM KIDS INQUIRY. ** MS. JIMENEZ SECONDED. ** THE MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY.

Approval of Regulation #4126 – Outside Consultants/Service Providers.

** MS. HAMILTON MOVED TO APPROVE THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION:

RESOLVED, UPON THE RECOMMENDATION OF THE SUPERINTENDENT OF SCHOOLS, THAT THE BOARD OF EDUCATION APPROVE REGULATION #4126 – OUTSIDE CONSULTANTS/SERVICE PROVIDERS.

** MR. BURNETT SECONDED. ** THE MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY.

Approval of District Educational Technology Plan

** MS. HAMILTON MOVED TO APPROVE THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION:

RESOLVED, UPON THE RECOMMENDATION OF THE SUPERINTENDENT OF SCHOOLS, THAT THE BOARD OF EDUCATION APPROVE THE DISTRICT EDUCATIONAL TECHNOLOGY PLAN JULY 1, 2009-JUNE 30, 2012 AS PRESENTED AT THE MARCH 3, 2009 BOARD OF EDUCATION MEETING.

** MR. BURNETT SECONDED. ** THE MOTION PASSED EIGHT IN FAVOR (MURRAY, BISHOP-PULLAN, CHIARAMONTE, HAMILTON, IANNACCONE, BURNETT, RIVAS, AND MOSBY) AND ONE ABSTENTION (JIMENEZ).

Approval of Personnel Actions

** MS. JIMENEZ MOVED TO ACCEPT THE FOLLOWING RESIGNATION:

C. ANTHONY BRASWELL, FROM WEST ROCKS MIDDLE SCHOOL EFFECTIVE JUNE 30, 2009.

** MR. IANNACCONE SECONDED. ** THE MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY.

INFORMATION AND REPORTS

Update on EAP

Dr. Corda said that the program would expire at the end of the year. This program will become part of the overall health insurance budget. Mr. Iannaccone asked if there would be any negative impact on insurance. Ms. Fay Rotolo said that it would be an enhancement.

Mr. Burnett asked how this was being handled. Dr. Corda replied that it did not require any action on the part of the Board.

CREC Public Meeting

Ms. Rivas said that when the meeting was held in the community room, the attendance was very low. One question was why this program was not held in Spanish and another one was why was there so little outreach to the community. She then asked if this could be presented again. It is something that should be available and the entire community should be aware of. She then asked that the packet be translated into Spanish and having translators available. Ms. Murray said that she had spoken to others and there was one suggestion that the report presentation be done before a Board meeting. Dr. Corda said that a presentation could be done before a Board meeting, but the presentation would have to start at 7 p.m. with a light agenda. Dr. Corda said that he would look at April 21st or the first meeting in May.

Ms. Mosby then thanked the Special Education department for being present at the meeting tonight. She then extended the invitation to those present to attend the CREC report.

Ms. Rivas then suggested that Dr. Corda then see if this could be part of the PTO meeting and that it should be advertised in El Sol and La Voz. Mr. Burnett said that it would be important to have a different way of presenting the material and making sure that the announcement of the meeting gets to the community.

Ms. Bishop-Pullan said that her sense was that there was not a sense of urgency by the special education department. She said that it would be important move the program forward with more urgency. Ms. Bishop-Pullan then said that the parents did not feel that they had enough input and that six people on the advisory committee was not enough.

Ms. Rivas said that she was also surprised in that there were 13 classifications in Special Education and only six members on the advisory committee. Dr. Corda replied that there had already been some conversation about what a larger committee might look like based on the suggestions that had been made. He said that there was a possibility of 10 or 12 members. Ms. Mosby reminded everyone that six members had only been a recommendation and that this could be changed.

Ms. Rivas said that the letters that were sent out did not give enough information. She said that she had heard from seven people who had not received a reply back. Dr. Corda said that there would be some follow up. Ms. Murray explained that the program had not progressed that far. Ms. Rivas said that the letter should have said that those who would called would have their names and numbers taken and someone would contact them.

Ms. Jimenez said that she would like to know if there was a vision regarding the CREC report follow up. Ms. Murray said that she believe it would be going to Curriculum Committee. Ms. Jimenez asked that how the Board would be monitoring the program. Ms. Murray said that the Curriculum Committee would be reporting back to the Board. Mr. Daddona explained that he updates the Curriculum Committee on how the committee is progressing.

Ms. Bishop-Pullan asked Mr. Daddona to explain the role that the State Education Department was playing in this program. Dr. Corda then explained that the State was acting as assistances to the District through Mr. Brian Cunnane, by providing resources and indicating individuals who might be helpful in implementing the program. Mr. Daddona said that they function as advisors and this has been helpful.

Committee Representatives

Ms. Mosby announced that the Curriculum Committee would be having their next meeting tomorrow night in room A330.

Ms. Bishop Pullan announced that the Policy Committee would be addressing several student policy issues that have arisen in their next meeting.

Ms. Hamilton said that CES had met and the principal of the Six To Six Magnet School was named regional school Principal of the Year and will be one of nine candidates for Principal of the Year. NEF has received a $75,000 grant from the Norwalk Children’s Foundation. There had been discussions about how to increase participation in CABE events.

Ms. Hamilton said that she had visited Briggs yesterday and had the opportunity to interact with the students.

Mr. Iannaccone said that NFCC continues to review the building renovation progress on NHS, BMHS, Roton and Ponus.

Ms. Murray said that she enjoyed BMHS performance of Cinderella and was looking forward to seeing Beauty and the Beast at NHS.

Mr. Burnett said that All City Band was scheduled for April 24th and All City Chorus would be on April 21st.

DISCUSSION CONCERNING THE EMPLOYMENT AND PERFORMANCE OF A NORWALK PUBLIC SCHOOL EMPLOYEE

** MS. BISHOP-PULLAN MOVED TO ENTER INTO EXECUTIVE SESSION FOR A DISCUSSION CONCERNING THE EMPLOYMENT AND PERFORMANCE OF A NORWALK PUBLIC SCHOOL EMPLOYEE ** MR. IANNACCONE SECONDED. ** THE MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY.

The Board entered Executive Session in order to discuss the employment and performance of a NPS employee at 9:39 p.m. They returned to public session at 10:58 p.m.

ADJOURNMENT

** MR. IANNACCONE MOVED TO ADJOURN. ** MS. HAMILTON SECONDED. ** THE MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY.

The meeting adjourned at 11:00 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Sharon L. Soltes Telesco Secretarial Services

Category: Minutes