Board of Education Meeting Minutes

March 15, 2005

BOARD OF EDUCATION

MARCH 15, 2005

ATTENDANCE: Rosa Murray; Chairman, Jody Bishop-Pullan, Susan Hamilton, Rob Polley, Marina Rivera, Judith Rivas, Richard Fuller, David Cole

STAFF: Dr. Salvatore Corda, Superintendent of Schools

CALL TO ORDER

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

PLEDGE of ALEGIANCE

The Pledge of Allegiance was recited by all.

SPOTLIGHT

Mr. Polley read the report regarding Norwalk Public Schools.

SUPERINTENDENT’S REPORT

Dr. Corda said it occurred to him that it was March 15 today and the school year will be over in about three months. He said they were roughly 70% into the school year. And as they get into the period of spring and towards the end of school, he thought it would be helpful to talk about what needed to be done before the end of the year. He went on to say they will probably have one day to make up due to the snow storms that occurred. He said that within the next month, they will begin budget reconciliations and discussions are planned in April. He stated it looked as though they will need to reconcile $1.4 million of the amount approved, but they will be in a better position to know how this will affect certain issues, such as no reductions in staff and they will concentrate on proposals that have been made.

Dr. Corda continued and said they were in the midst of exciting educational activity, which is the discussion about the school growth plan developed. These are plans that staff has been involved in with focus on student performance data that will be measured to determine growth. He expressed that what was fascinating is that this has been a learning experience due to strategies, support systems and resources in place. And it’s the structural core that makes the scope of work important. They began with a plan where the intent was to visit (19) schools, but they decided to concentrate on the elementary levels. So when they finish the first cycle at the elementary level, they will then move on to the secondary levels. But it’s all a work in progress. He said they were also in the midst of program enhancements, such as the Mano a Mano program in middle school. They are also continuing work with curriculum revision, especially as it relates to Science. They also have the help of the Central office, staff, principals and teachers in the examination of work that is taught with emphasis on refining that. He noted that in the next week, they will interview youth in the final stages of the Ettinger Scholarship and they will be acknowledged by the Ettinger Foundation. They are also in session of the arts celebration and other events. He pointed out that these programs celebrate work of the students and teachers respectively. Overall, it’s a time of expectation. And they are continuing to move forward on all points.

PUBLIC COMMENTS

§ Tim Rogers approached to say good evening. He said for the past seven years, he has taught in the Norwalk Schools and it was a pleasure to work at Silvermine School. For the past two years, he taught 4th grade in the Mano a Mano program. He expressed that he was here tonight to urge continued support of the language program. He said that in the role of a 4th grade teacher, he has witnessed the high level of achievement. And more importantly, he watched students discover the joy of language in knowing two languages. He stressed that he no longer hears comments about “those Spanish kids”! He shared the quote that “He, who owns language, owns the power”. He further emphasized that being able to read and write in two languages was a gift. The program is an exemplary program. He further highlighted that the program should be a model for others to follow. He said he was proud of the Mano a Mano staff and what they have accomplished to date. He ended in saying that he hoped the years of learning wouldn’t be lost. There was audience applause.

§ Debra Lewis approached. She thanked the committee for allowing her to speak. She said she was the parent of two children in the 2nd and 4th grades enrolled in the Mano a Mano program. She shared that she spoke several languages and that she felt it was important to be bilingual. She urged continuation of the program. She emphasized the dedication of all the children and parents that support the program passionately. The program has made a great difference in the lives of kids at Silvermine and it has aided tolerance that is common in the world today.

§ Claudette Quadrini approached. She said she was the parent of a 5th grader enrolled in the Mano a Mano program. She believed everyone was familiar with the statistics and success of the students. She noted that children were on the brink of obtaining skills that will help them in the future. She further noted the social impact the program creates, pointing out how she has been exposed to people she has grown close to as a result of the program. She expressed that the program creates global awareness to respect the future residents of Norwalk.

§ Monica, a parent spoke in Spanish to express her feelings about the Mano a Mano program.

§ Three 5th graders present approached to speak.

-Arianna said she reads chapter books and keeps a journal in Spanish. She spoke a few words in Spanish very fluently. -Manuela said it was important to learn in both languages. She said she had a lot of friends that are bilingual. -Another 5th grader present said it would be a good privilege to learn other things that she didn’t know. She felt this would help her in life.

§ Kerry O’Neil approached. She said she had a son in 4th grade. She expressed that it was a joy to watch her son blossom with his Spanish speaking skills. She said she has seen evidence at home while hearing him read in Spanish. He also takes math notes in Spanish. She said she came to understand that knowing a second language was powerful and beneficial. And it creates respect for other cultures and prepares children to live in a multi-ethnic community; but the academic benefits far outweigh this. She said it was inspiring to witness her child engage in another language. She ended in saying that children need the ability to learn content in Spanish. She hoped being taught the gift would not be squandered. § Judy Wasserman approached. She said she hoped they would accept the proposal for the program. Her son is in the 1st grade and she has seen a significant difference in his learning. She believed a culture diversity program was not just a language program, but it was vital to get a step up in what is going on in the world. She felt that kids learning this will have an advantage. She urged the board to accept the program.

ACTIONS

A. Consent 1. Approval of Minutes – February 15, 2005 2. Personnel Actions 3. Approve Budget Transfers

** MS. RIVAS MOVED APPROVAL OF THE CONSENT ITEMS ** MS. RIVERA SECONDED ** MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY

Dr. Corda commented on Personnel Actions. He said they received resignations for three staff members consisting of retirement and personal reasons. He acknowledged their contributions to the district over the years as outstanding employees. He further expressed his appreciation to: Julianne Ross – Assistant Principal at Fox Run School - effective 6/30/05 Gary Spremullo – Principal at Nathan Hale Middle School -effective 6/30/05 Patricia Eletto – Assistant Principal at Marvin School -effective 3/14/05

INFORMATION and REPORTS

A. Extension of Mano a Mano into Middle School

Dr. Corda clarified that this item was on the agenda for informational purposes only. It will be on the next meeting agenda for action.

The coordinator of the program approached to speak. She said it was a pleasure and delight to serve in the program. She explained that the committee was formed with parents, a guidance counselor and teachers. She thanked all of them for their commitment. She also thanked Dr. Corda, Dr. Lang and other who were instrumental in this program. She went on to say the committee began meeting in spring. They reviewed literature and visited four programs located in New Britain and Massachusetts where they gained a lot of information to help them in planning. They also surveyed the parents of Mano a Mano students for their input and they covered varied issues. Overall, they were here tonight to propose the program and West Rocks School.

She further highlighted key points of the program as follows:

1. They were proposing two classes per day that will consist of Social Studies and Language Arts in advance Spanish. 2. They were proposing to hire a Social Studies and Language Arts teacher to teach the class in Spanish. She noted there was already a person on staff that could fill this position. 3. Staff is also needed for the Advanced Language class. She noted a person was already on staff to fill that position. 4. The limitations are that the parents will need to choose the academic program or the Mano a Mano program at West Rocks School. 5. There will be costs for new textbooks and materials.

It was further noted they received a Federal grant to develop the proposal, this helped curb expenses.

It was explained that the reason they were proposing this program, was because Spanish students that enter the program are bilingual already, but they need an advanced class to continue and maintain their skills. She said that those learning Spanish as a second language will need the entire three years to gain fluency.

Mr. Polley asked the number of students that would be enrolled in the program. The response was that there were (38) students interested in the program.

Dr. Corda said that any funds necessary for textbooks and materials not covered by the grant, the BOE has made accommodations to cover them. He further noted that in three years times, he expected students in the program to be enrolled in the advanced program.

Mr. Fuller asked what the mix was of the (38) students. The response was that the (38) students were comprised of native Spanish speaking kids and kids learning Spanish.

Ms. Rivas expressed that she was impressed with the work that has gone into the program. She felt the program has seen good results and it should continue.

Mr. Fuller commented that they were coming to the point where the board meetings may have to be spoken in Spanish for the benefit of the parents.

B. High School Science Curriculum and textbook presentation

The representative present on this item approached. She gave an overview of the curriculum presentations proposed schedule as follows:

BCE Curriculum Presentations - Proposed Schedule

. High School Science (curriculum adoption); Update on revisions to Elementary Science (Information); Textbook Adoption - March 15th

. High School Technology Ed (curriculum adoption; textbook adoption) (may also include updates on other related programs) - April 5th

. World Languages (6 - 12) (curriculum adoption); Textbook Adoption – May 3rd

. Mathematics - Textbook Adoption (selected math courses 6 - 12 - This will

complete the adoption begun last year) - May 17th

. Social Studies Textbook Adoption (selected grades/courses 6 -12 - This will complete the adoption begun last year) - May 17th

. Academically Talented - curriculum adoption and program update - June 7th

It was stated they really needed to acknowledge the number of people that were involved in the process. It was also noted what the importance of implementing the program would mean. The point of curriculum development was stressed as a fluid process. There will be changes based on reactions from teachers and how students are achieving, as well as following mandates from the state.

Mr. Dean Martinelli was introduced to speak further on this topic. He presented the last phase of the curriculum for the high school program. He explained the process started two years ago to begin the needs assessment and how to move Science up ahead. In conjunction with consultants, a report was put together that highlighted the key findings as follows:

1. All documents will have a statement of philosophy to indicate goals and the sequence to follow for grades K-12.

2. They will tie into professionally technology and equipment; such as making hands on materials available.

3. Professional development will be required that will come with the new program.

4. Students will need to be monitored and assessed.

5. Leadership will be a focus at the high schools, middle schools and elementary schools.

He explained a program overview of the courses was available. For instance, the 9th grade will take the new course and then will move to Biology in the 10th grade. There will also be three advanced placement courses and they will add additional electives over the years. The big change will be in the 9th grade in terms of content because things had to be adjusted due to the “No Child Left Behind” policy implemented by the state. So the 8th grade will be tested and the 9th grade course will be a mix of Physics, Chemistry and Earth Science, but there will be a couple of new topics also. The 10th grade will move to a Modern Molecular Biology approach. In addition, they will not offer Biology-2 level. But all the students will be at a Biology -5 level and above in high school. For the 11th grade, there will be a new forensics course. Also Science is part of the graduation performance and it will mean the students must take a preparation course in their senior year. Overall, the changes are reflected in the 9th grade.

Ms. Bishop-Pullan asked if the 10th graders would take advance placement Biology. The response was that the college board recommends advance placement Science be a second year course only. So they want the students to take the regular Biology course first. Although, for gifted students, they may make exceptions. But they recommend a good foundation for the students before taking the advanced courses. It was further noted there are (46) state standards that will be incorporated into the curriculum.

Mr. Cole asked if the number of people present tonight were involved in the proposal. Dr. Volo said that the program proposal was a product of everyone working together in conjunction with teachers.

Mr. Martinelli continued to discuss -Textbooks. He had samples of all the course books available for review. He further reviewed the new adoptions. And highlighted that students would be given an opportunity to use the books that deal with content, readability etc. He noted that the textbooks were an aid for the student to benefit from. He relayed that although they are fairly expensive, they are crucial to the program.

Mr. Fuller asked how up to date the books were. Mr. Martinelli said they were 2004-2006 editions. He pointed out that Science books are never completely up to date because of new findings that are ongoing in that field.

Dr. Corda asked if other materials came with the textbooks. Mr. Martinelli stated that they looked at one set of books to check the updated versions. They asked the publisher to send the entire box and the textbooks came with CD Roms and lab books also. He noted these materials allow using the textbooks interactively with the publisher’s website.

Dr. Corda stated that many students have the capability to access information over the Internet. He wondered how they create the capacity for students without Internet access to do this. Dr. Volo replied that it might be a problem for those without Internet access at home. He noted that CD Rom usage is for students that have Internet access, but during school hours everyone can have access.

Mr. Fuller mentioned that the Carver Center and the library had computers for use. He suggested that the students without Internet access at home should be made aware of this.

Mr. Martinelli further reviewed the standards the state adopted that are now integrated with the curriculum. They also changed some language in the content standards and the biggest change will be in the Middle School for different categories. It was also noted that they streamlined the curriculum objectives in grades K through 5.

Next Steps were reviewed stating there was a lot of work to do. They will have ongoing professional development with teachers and they have had workshops for grades 3 through 6. and high school workshops will be held this summer. They are also in the process of selecting good activities, such as a formal lab to mesh with the new standards. The goal is to provide teachers with resource books. It was noted there are new technologies in process, such as microscopes that can be used interactively. It was stressed that they also need to develop unit or subject area assessments school wide.

Mr. Fuller asked if they will have the necessary classroom equipment to carry out the program successfully. Dr. Volo said there will be eight (8) new classrooms and ten (10) fitted.

Mr. Cole commented that they had a preview from Dr. Lang. He said curriculum development was a fluid thing, it wasn’t just about buying books, but the entire process consists of follow up and fine-tuning. He said he has seen a dramatic improvement as a result of the program. And he expressed it has been a delight working with Dr. Lang.

Ms. Murray stated that it was important that they keep reviewing the program needs because it’s a continual work in progress.

Dr. Corda stated there would be professional development taking place to have computer labs in all schools.

C. Board Members Announcements

Mr. Cole announced that he will resign from the board. He said the reasons were due to family and health issues that prevent him from serving the children of Norwalk. He stated that he prepared a written statement for the press that he will submit. He further expressed that his was a difficult decision.

Mr. Fuller expressed that he regretted his resignation, but he said that it had been great working with Mr. Cole and that he was a man of mission. He congratulated him on this time served and he hoped he would continue in the education of children.

Ms. Bishop mirrored her regret in Mr. Cole’s resignation.

OTHER

Ms. Murray announced that the Racial Balance Meeting was rescheduled to March 29, 2005 at 7:00 p.m.

Dr. Corda relayed information regarding the Racial Balance Committee. He suggested they use the month of April to discuss options presented, with the intent of providing direction to the Superintendent for developing a more comprehensive report that will allow them to make a decision in June, so they can plan for the 2006-2007 school year. He further suggested that at the March 29 meting, they invite the public for final comments that they should submit in writing. This will allow them to deliberate in April.

Ms. Murray asked for the last four to five meetings they already had, could they get a summary report of what transpired during those meetings. She thought this information should consist of the minutes and the tape recordings.

** MS. BISHOP-PULLAN MOVED TO GO INTO EXECUTIVE SESSION ** MS. RIVAS SECONDED ** MOTION PASSED UNANIMOULSY

NEGOITIATIONS and LITIGATION (Executive Session)

The board members moved into executive session at 9:10 p.m.

The Executive Session ended at 9:49 p.m. – there were no actions taken. Public Schools.

ADJOURNMENT

** MS. BISHOP-PULLAN MADE A MOTION TO ADJOURN ** MS. RIVERA SECONDED ** MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY

The meeting was adjourned at 9:50 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Diane Graham Telesco Secretarial Services

Category: Minutes