Board of Education Meeting Minutes

May 18, 2004

BOARD OF EDUCATION

MAY 18, 2004

ATTENDANCE: Jody Bishop-Pullan, Chairman; Thomas Vetter; Rosa Murray; Robert Polley; Susan Hamilton; David Cole; Marina Rivera; Judith Rivas (7:23 pm).

STAFF: Dr. Salvatore Corda; Dr. Karen Lang; Stuart Opdahl

OTHERS: Pat Shields; Omar Cruz; Attorney Bob Maslin; Louise Harret; John Kehoe; Kathy Jimenez; Jim McLaughlin

CALL TO ORDER

The Chairman called the meeting to order at 7:21 pm.

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

All present recited the Pledge of Allegiance.

HEAR AND DISCUSS EMPLOYEE GRIEVANCE

Ms. Rivas joined the meeting at 7:23 pm.

There was discussion of grievance regarding Margaret Loris.

SPOTLIGHT

Mr. Vetter read the written report, Spotlight on Norwalk Public Schools.

SUPERINTENDENTS’ REPORT

Dr. Corda indicated that they are going to continue to examine the budget as they move towards reconciliation; they are making the effort to have the goal to retain the staffing level that they have. During the last presentation they were approximately $400,000 shy of reconciling the budget to the amount approved by the Common Council. They are still working on that effort and as the situation becomes clearer in the next couple of weeks they would hope to come to the Board with a final reconciliation.

Dr. Corda announced that the flyer circulated about the Racial Balance meeting at West Rocks tomorrow night was in fact printed wrongly – it indicated that the meeting is June 19, 2004. He confirmed that this was an error and the meeting is May 19, 2004.

PUBLIC COMMENTS

Bruce Mellion distributed two items explaining that the first was put together by the Norwalk Federation of Teachers on the awards and scholarship program. The second is one that addresses the exploitation of children.

Jean Bonenfant, a parent, stated that she was here to discuss the resolution and process regarding and on-going item in the sporting program, one that dates back eight to ten years. After hearing and experiencing first hand, numerous incidents of inappropriate actions they realized their problem had reached a point where they needed Administration’s assistance in resolving the problem. Finally they went to central office, and although they feel this is being investigated it has in no way been resolved. Ms. Bonenfant went onto say that they followed the rules and respected the district’s course of action, they invested time and energy into a problem. She said the system has not worked at all and the only progress that their children have seen is that the intimidation factor at schools has become worse and the level of feeling uncomfortable has escalated. She urged Board members to review the process that is currently in place in an effort to make it more effective and to protect the children.

Ken Lalime, a parent said that he appreciated all the time and effort put into the overall school system. As previously heard by Mrs. Bonenfant, issues have been raised with regard to one of the athletic programs at Norwalk High School. With reference to the process and in an effort to address issues, they attempted to work with the high school management resources. Eventually these issues were brought forward however the variance between the expectations presented to them and the actual outcome of the actions taken were quite large. They believe they have followed all of the rules, meet all the standards only to find an additional step at each level that needed to be re-taken. These issues may seem small but Mr. Lalime urged Board members to look at how important this process of resolution is to the parents and students involved.

ACTIONS

A. CONSENT

1. Approval of minutes (April 27 and May 4, 2004) 2. Approval of budget transfers 3. Approval of personnel actions

Items 1 and 3 were removed from the consent agenda.

** MR. VETTER MOVED APPROVAL OF ITEM 2 ON THE CONSENT AGENDA. ** MS. RIVERA SECONDED. ** MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY.

** MS. RIVAS MOVED APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES OF APRIL 27, 2004 AS PRESENTED. ** MR. VETTER SECONDED. ** MOTION PASSED SIX VOTES IN FAVOR, TWO ABSTENTIONS (MS. HAMILTON AND MS. RIVERA).

** MR. COLE MOVED APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES OF MAY 4, 2004 AS PRESENTED. ** MR. POLLEY SECONDED. ** MOTION PASSED SEVEN VOTES IN FAVOR, ONE ABSTENTION (MS. RIVERA).

** MR. MURRAY MOVED APPROVAL OF THE PERSONNEL ACTIONS. ** MS. HAMILTON SECONDED. ** MOTION PASSED SEVEN VOTES IN FAVOR, ONE ABSTENTION (MR. VETTER).

At this point in the meeting Dr. Corda introduced the three new housemasters, Joan Prusky, Roz McCarthy and Gwen Young.

B. APPROVE SUBMISSION OF PRIMARY MENTAL HEALTH PROGRAM (NARAMAKE SCHOOL) GRANT PROPOSAL “WE CARE ABOUT KIDS HELP CENTER”.

** MR. VETTER MOVED: RESOLVED, UPON THE RECOMMENDATION OF THE SUPERINTENDENT OF SCHOOLS, THAT THE BOARD OF EDUCATION APPROVE SUBMISSION OF PRIMARY MENTAL HEALTH PROGRAM (NARAMAKE SCHOOL) GRANT PROGRAM “WE CARE ABOUT KIDS HELP CENTER”. ** MS. HAMILTON SECONDED. ** MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY.

C. APPROVE USE OF NORWALK HIGH SCHOOL SWIMMING POOL BY NORWALK AQUATIC CLUB, INC.

** MS. MURRAY MOVED: RESOLVED, UPON THE RECOMMENDATION OF THE SUPERINTENDENT OF SCHOOLS, THAT THE BOARD OF EDUCATION APPROVE THE USAGE OF THE NORWALK HIGH SWIMMING POOL BY THE NORWALK AQUATIC CLUB, INC. (ZEUS SWIM TEAM) FOR A PERIOD BEGINNING 7/1/04 THROUGH 6/30/04 PENDING CONTRACT DEVELOPMENT BY COUNSEL AND PENDING ACCEPTANCE OF FEE STRUCTURE. ** MS. RIVAS SECONDED.

Mr. Opdahl stated that he had reviewed the application from Norwalk Aquatic Club, Zeus Swim Team and he has asked them to supply him with evidence of application for a 5013C (Non-profit status), history of usage of the pool and evidence of their insurance coverage. He said what this is tonight is an approval of the use of the pool, not approval of a contract so they can establish fee structuring and scheduling etc.

Pat Shields, past president of the Zeus Swimming Team at Norwalk High School said they had been in operation for over twenty years and had produced over 1000 swimmers. He thanked the Board members for the continuing relationship. Zeus is a parent run and parent managed swim team and they are a member of US Swimming and being part of that organization they have insurance for not only their swimmers but for any of the timers, parents on deck etc. With regard to they’re pursuing a 5013C, Mr. Shields said this is something they are interested in doing to benefit the pool and Norwalk swimming. They are a growing team, having doubled in numbers of the last year and most of the swimmers do come from Norwalk. He introduced the coach, Omar Cruz.

Ms. Rivas asked if the club encourages other members in terms of different levels of ability, beginners etc.

Mr. Cruz replied that they currently have sixty swimmers under the age of twelve and about thirty under the age of eight, all beginners.

Ms. Rivas asked how their fees ($1,700) are compared to other swim clubs in Norwalk and if scholarships are offered.

Mr. Cruz replied that the fees are based on the amount of pool time each student gets. Compared to the rest of Connecticut, Mr. Cruz considered the fees to be good as they work out to roughly $6 a practice and that could be as long as two hours.

Ms. Rivas asked if this group was affiliated with Recreations and Parks.

Mr. Shields explained that they began as an independent organization and one day; two years ago they were told that they belonged to Recreations and Parks. At that time they viewed this as a positive thing, however, there were two incidents that changed their minds in with working with them. After this they decided to go back to a parent run program.

Ms. Rivas confirmed that no official contract was signed with Recreations and Parks. Mr. Shields concurred noting that it was just a handshake.

Ms. Murray asked how swimmers are recruited.

Mr. Shield responded by saying that they all try out and it is open to anyone and everyone. He said they are looking at the Board of Education as a place they can reach out to the school system.

Ms. Murray asked about scholarships. Mr. Cruz said not at this time but with their 5013C status they would be able to establish this.

Ms. Bishop-Pullan asked how close they are to receiving their 5013C. Mr. Shields replied that they are close; he introduced Attorney Bob Maslin.

Attorney Maslin stated that what they are planning to file a 5013C with the IRS and that does take some time but as long as the application is filed the status is retroactive.

Mr. Vetter said he had no problem with the concept, but they were asked to vote on something pending contract development; he said he would like to see the contracts come back to the Board.

Mr. Opdahl confirmed that they would and that they will include fees etc.

** MOTION PASSED SEVEN VOTES IN FAVOR, ONE ABSTENTION (MR. POLLEY).

D. APPROVE RESCISSION OF MAY 4, 2004 RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING LEGAL COUNSEL TO INSTITUTE LEGAL PROCEEDINGS.

** MR. COLE MOVED: RESOLVED, UPON THE RECOMMENDATION OF THE SUPERINTENDENT OF SCHOOLS, THAT THE BOARD OF EDUCATION RESCIND THE MAY 4, 2004 RESOLUTION APPROVING THE AUTHORIZATION OF LEGAL COUNSEL TO INSTITUTE LEGAL PROCEEDINGS WITH REGARD TO THE UNLAWFUL PLACEMENT OF FUNDS FOR THE PAYMENT OF TEACHER HEALTH INSURANCE BENEFITS IN A CITY CONTINGENCY FUND. ** MS. RIVERA SECONDED. ** MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY

Ms. Bishop-Pullan said after the press conference that herself and Mr. Vetter held with the Mayor last week that the Board of Estimate and Taxation voted to restore the money and that will go to the Council next Tuesday. The Board of Education is not going to pursue any legal action and they are hoping to work together with the Mayor, the president of the Council and Dr. Corda to find a way in which they can all work together.

** MR. VETTER MOVED TO ADD AN ITEM TO THE AGENDA – TO GO INTO EXECUTIVE SESSION TO DISCUSS NEGOTIATIONS. ** MR. MURRAY SECONDED. ** MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY.

INFORMATION AND REPORTS

A. PRESENTATION OF MATH CURRICULUM AND TEXTBOOK RECOMMENDATION GRADES 6-12

Dr. Lang said this is a really critical area and felt a sense of urgency in math 6-12. In addition they found some interesting things, for example the two high schools had different sequences and there was a great deal of repetition in the sixth, seventh and eighth grades. Dr. Lang stated that they have been very lucky to have the help of Louise Harret, she was the consultant used last year and not only did she give a very insightful report, but she had also established a terrific working relationship with the teachers. She added that Ms. Harret had also worked with John Kehoe and Kathy Jimenez, the two math chairs from the high school and the work done was something is worth celebrating.

Dr. Lang continued to say that they are suggesting dramatic changes in the math sequence and they will be done incrementally and it will actually take a period of years to get fully there; she added that the new curriculum is fully aligned with state standards and frameworks. Regarding next year, their work is not finished and they have to make sure that everyone understands that this is not the end of their text book purchases, they are starting in math, but they will need additional books next year. Also next year, Ms. Harret will be working with teachers on district wide assessments that will also help in the reviewing of the program. Ms. Harret will also be working with teachers on developing instructional strategies and much of this will come in the form of professional development days and this will be critical.

Dr. Lang stated that they are moving towards a system where they believe that will allow all students to achieve at very high levels. This means they have to allow for time and support; she mentioned the need for the six extra teachers requested in the budget - support for students is key. Dr. Lang introduced and thanked Ms. Harret.

Ms. Harret acknowledged that the most important part of the report is the first page and that is the list of teachers who participated in the project. This is not a curriculum that will be put on the shelf, the teachers themselves wrote this. She referred to the overhead projector and presented the following slides:

· Norwalk Public School – Normal math sequence 6-12 · Mathematics grades 6-12 – Changes in course names · Current and proposed high school math – Mathematics sequence · Mathematics – grade 6 - example page and typical page.

Ms. Harret stated that this is a much richer program than before and their expectations are much higher. This will require considerable amount of professional development and next year they hope to bring the teachers together, so they are able to exchange ides and learn from one another. Ms. Harret referred to the next slide:

· Textbook Recommendations

Ms. Harret pointed out that that they did not pick the books until the curriculum was done. She commended all that that had taken part in the; she added that it is a big investment and it is worth it.

Mr. Kehoe expressed his appreciation for the development of the curriculum as this kind of thing takes time.

Ms. Jimenez thanked the Board on behalf of the teachers for the allocation of the textbooks.

Dr. Corda acknowledged the monumental task in terms of how they can ratchet up the level of expectation and how much they appreciate the work that has gone on. He asked if the way in which the sequences are described that kids have followed is an honors, average plus, average and basic. Since the sequence is defined by the courses, is there any compelling reason why they would need to describe them as basic, average and average plus. When a kid thinks of himself as basic, a mindset goes along with it and there is nothing about this sequence that says this is basic. The level of course is at a level they are comfortable being able to meet the standards. He asked if it is possible if they could think about whether or not they could use those terms.

Ms. Harret said they did play around with the terms and how to name the courses. It is a matter of scheduling so that the guidance counselors can put the students into the right course at the right pace.

Mr. Kehoe said they used this terminology to present to people who did not know what was going on. He said there are no basic classes; terminology was not part of their discussion.

Dr. Corda said that the counselors will know how to schedule the kids based on their knowledge of the kids. If they continue to use that kind of language then they will re-enforce exactly what they are trying to get rid of. He said they have to pay attention to the language that they use.

Ms. Harret commented that Dr. Corda raised a good point and that is a decision that would have to be made at Board level.

Ms. Jimenez stated that when the students get their subject selection book, those terms are not used for any grade.

Dr. Lang said she will do what she can. Dr. Corda added if they are going to do it, do it right.

Mr. Cole followed up referring to the word counselors - as this learning path could be a tool to the guidance counselor on help in scheduling kids.

Ms. Murray asked at what time would they discuss the changing of stanine. Dr. Lang replied that they are developing one set of curriculum for all students; they are not developing distinctions between stanines. However they do exist, and this will take some time, they do not have any particular time at the moment but next year, for example, there will be several changes regarding the elimination of them.

Mr. Kehoe said the use of this term does not enter into the math, honors is the only designation they have.

Dr. Corda said that over time the kind of work that has been done, is where the discussion has to take place about the fact that as curriculum is revised the lowest level of acceptability has to be at the standard that is high enough so that youngsters are able to meet the standard that they have established. This is going to take rigorous curriculum and making sure that people understand that it is no longer acceptable for us to have courses to where the content is watered down. They also have to provide professional development to the staff so that they understand and can expand their level of skills that they have in working with a population of students, some of whom will need additional support; they need to provide this support. He concluded by saying that this will be an uphill battle and it’s going to take time.

Mr. Polley referred to the swim team (as an analogy); when they started it was well known that Norwalk kids don’t attend the morning practice, now they have kids at the national level. There isn’t any reason why the children in this district can’t achieve at the same levels as those in other districts; this is a mindset. Secondly, there is not an area where instruction has changed so much as in math; he applauded all of the work that had taken place.

Ms. Murray said she would like to receive more information on the support that they are providing the students as they make this transition.

Ms. Harret said that algebra parts one and two were based on Carnegie program that is computer assisted instruction and they found that students were not prepared for algebra two after going through that program. This year they tried to teach the entire content in one year but not having as many days in the computer lab, more in the classroom and right away they felt that they could. She said based on this they felt they could do this.

B. PRESENTATION OF SOCIAL STUDIES CURRICULUM AND TEXTBOOK RECOMMENDATION GRADES 6-12

Dr. Lang commented that last year they had a thorough evaluation of the social studies program, they found that textbooks were old and dated. She introduced Jim McLaughlin saying that he worked with all of the teachers and they have now had an opportunity for input.

Mr. McLaughlin gave some background information on himself and presented the following entitled Social Studies Curriculum Guide 2004-2005

· Mission Statement · Initiation · Major Concerns · Selecting a Format · Scope and Sequence · Curriculum · Ruminations

Dr. Corda asked if was the expectation that when a youngster is in an AP course that they will take the exam.

Mr. McLaughlin replied that it is not fully yet, but it should be. He said it is not required.

Dr. Corda asked if it was the sense of the staff that if the Board were to consider a requirement like that if there would be support for it. Mr. McLaughlin responded – 100%, yes.

Mr. Vetter said there it was indicated that there was more of an emphasis on research skills, who at this point is the burden of teaching the research fall on.

Mr. McLaughlin said that it primarily falls on the departmental heads.

Mr. Vetter said it was his understanding, that especially in the middle schools, that the librarians helped out. As they no longer have librarians at the middle schools, Mr. Vetter asked if they had noticed any change in the ability of students.

Mr. McLaughlin commented that he had and this would have to be addressed by the teachers in the middle schools.

Mr. Polley noted that he was encouraged to hear about the students using primary source materials.

Ms. Bishop-Pullan noted her appreciation of the consistency to the high schools, the flexibility in the electives; it will be a real asset to the students.

C. UPDATE ON PROCESS FOR REVIEWING RACIAL BALANCE COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATIONS

Ms. Bishop-Pullan commented that during the last couples of meetings, she wished to state that nothing will be done this year; they are still receiving input and making decisions. Nothing before 2005 certainly and most of the plans have a phase in process.

Mr. Cole said the committee felt that they wanted to avoid a switch of kids from one school to another.

D. BOARD MEMBER ANNOUNCEMENTS

Ms. Murray thanked Board members for following the schedule for the Racial Balance Committee and attending the community meeting. She also thanked the Board for hosting the PTO Council in the first session and tomorrow evening the meeting will be at West Rocks, she invited all to attend. The next meeting will be held at Roton Middle School at 6:00 pm, June 17, 2004.

Ms. Murray added that Mr. Fuller is still convalescing, that is why he is not here this evening.

Mr. Cole announced that on May 23, 2004 they will have their annual ceremony at the Shay McGrath Memorial. On this occasion they will especially be honoring Wilfredo Perez. Secondly, the Memorial Day parade is on May 31, 2003; there will be a meeting on May 24, 2004 at the American Legion of all wanting to participate. The Veterans will be presenting three $100 gift certificates from Barnes and Noble for the three best floats for the schools that participate. Lastly, they are honoring the WWII Veterans in a special way; they will be riding in convertibles.

Ms. Bishop-Pullan reminded everyone that if the want to speck at the middle school promotions, to let her know.

** MR. POLLEY MOVED TO GO INTO EXECUTIVE SESSION FOR THE PURPOSE OF DISCUSSING NEGOTIATIONS. ** MS. MURRAY SECONDED. ** MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY.

Mr. Polley left the meeting. The Board went into executive session at 10:15 pm and reconvened into public session at 11:10 pm.

ADJOURNMENT

** MR. COLE MOVED TO ADJOURN. ** MS. RIVERA SECONDED. ** MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY.

The meeting was adjourned at 11:11 pm.

Respectfully submitted,

Kate Kye Telesco Secretarial Services

Category: Minutes