AMPHITHEATER PUBLIC SCHOOLS
Tucson, Arizona
MINUTES OF REGULAR PUBLIC MEETING OF THE GOVERNING BOARD
Place, Date and Time of Meeting
Wetmore
Center, 701 West Wetmore Road, April 27, 2004, 6:00 p.m.
Board
Members Present
Nancy Young Wright, President
Dr. Kent Barrabee, Vice President/Clerk
Patty Clymer, Member
Jeff Grant, Member
Mike Prout, Member
Central
Administrators Present
Dr. Vicki McLeod
Balentine, Superintendent
Todd A. Jaeger, J.D., Associate
to Superintendent and General Counsel
Patrick Nelson,
Associate Superintendent
Constance Cigliana, Chief Financial
Officer
Call to Order
Ms. Young Wright called the meeting to order at 6:06 p.m.
EXECUTIVE SESSION
1. Motion to Recess Open Meeting and Hold an Executive Session for:
A. Consideration and Decision Upon Expulsion Hearing Officer’s Recommendation, Pursuant to A.R.S. §15-843(F)(2);
B. Consideration and Decision Upon Expulsion Hearing Officer’s Recommendation, Pursuant to A.R.S. §15-843(F)(2);
C. Discussion
and Consultation with Legal Counsel in Order to Obtain Legal Advice and to
Consider the District’s Position and Instruct Legal Counsel Regarding Konrath
v. Amphitheater Unified School District, etc., et al., No. C20040860, Pima
County Superior Court, Pursuant to A.R.S. §38-431.03(A)(3 and 4).
A motion was made by Mr. Prout, seconded by Mrs. Clymer and passed unanimously, that the Board recess into executive session. The time was 6:07 p.m.
CONTINUATION OF
OPEN MEETING
Reconvening of Open Meeting and Signing of
Visitors’ Register
Following executive session, Ms. Young Wright reconvened the
meeting at 7:16 p.m., and asked members of the audience to sign the visitors’
register. Procedures for addressing the
Board were described.
Pledge
of Allegiance
Ms. Young Wright noted and congratulated the school for its bicycle-fixing
project that was described in a recent newspaper article.
No audience members addressed the Board.
INFORMATION
2. Announcement of Date and Place of Next
Regular Governing Board Meeting:
Ms. Young Wright announced the next regular meeting of the Governing Board: Tuesday, May 11, 2004, 7:00 p.m., Wetmore Center, 701 W. Wetmore Road.
3. Resolution Recognizing the special Contributions of Teachers
and Other Professional Personnel
Board
Book Information: At the Board’s meeting of April
12, the Board issued a Resolution recognizing the valuable contributions made
by educational support personnel. In
doing so, the Board noted that the contributions of teachers are also formally
recognized once a year on a national basis.
National
Teacher Appreciation Week was designated as such by the National PTA in
cooperation with the NEA. Previously,
observance has been celebrated by schools across the country in one form or
another, since 1944. The National Education Association has also declared that
the Tuesday of Appreciation Week be observed as “National Teacher Day.”
Remarkably,
Congress has only twice declared a National Teacher’s Day – in 1953, at the
behest of Eleanor Roosevelt and in 1980 after much lobbying by the NEA. Both Congressional declarations were for
those years only. The contributions of
teachers, of course, can be seen – and should be celebrated – day in, day out,
year in, year out, regardless of Congress’ action or inaction on the
subject.
A
Resolution has been prepared to not only recognize the contributions of
teachers generally, but also those of Amphitheater teachers specifically, and
to call for a national recognition.
This form of resolution also
recognizes the many professional employees who may not fit into the traditional
notion of “teacher” but who are also deserving of recognition for the
instructional and related services they provide to students as well.
Dr. Balentine provided some
background regarding the purpose of the Resolution, which Administration has
prepared for the Board’s review and approval.
Dr. Balentine read the proposed Resolution, which sets apart May 2-8,
2004 as “Teacher Appreciation Week” and May 4, 2004 as “Teacher Day” in the
District.
Mr. Prout moved to approve the Resolution, as submitted
(Exhibit 6). Dr. Barrabee seconded the
motion. Mrs. Clymer added that Board
Members have had the opportunity of visiting many Amphi schools and it has been
an impressive experience – to observe the many great teachers in the
classrooms. On behalf of the other
Board members as well, she expressed great pride and appreciation to all of the
District’s teachers and employees. Ms.
Young Wright called the vote; the motion passed unanimously, 5-0.
4.
Recognition
of Rebekkah Diamond, Senior, Canyon del Oro High School, 2004 Arts Express High
School Artist-Scholar
Board Book
Information: Rebekkah Diamond, a senior
at Canyon del Oro High School, will be recognized for being named an Arts Express
Artist Scholar for 2004. Rebekkah will
receive a $1,000 college scholarship.
Award criteria for selection of artist scholars includes: artistry in
one or more areas of the fine arts, scholarship, community service, and
involvement in extra-curricular activities.
Dr. Balentine read
the background information on Ms. Diamond.
She congratulated Ms. Diamond on her achievement. Ms. Diamond was not present. Dr. Barrabee read the certificate of
commendation.
5. Recognition of Amphitheater
Middle School M.E.S.A. Teams for Winning Regional Competition
Board Book Information:
The following Amphitheater Middle
School teams won awards at the Regional Math Engineering Science &
Achievement Competition on April 3rd at the University of
Arizona. This is the first time that
Amphitheater Middle School students have won first place in a statewide math,
science, and engineering competition.
Telescope – First Place: Rachel
Andrade, Fabiola Bedoya, Karen Quach, Jesus Ochoa, and Diana Vargas; Multi-Purpose
Vehicle – First Place: Maria Diaz, Sharif Elomrabi, Joseph Maestas, Kameron
Mark; Toothpick Tower – First Place: Diana Vargas and Valerie Perez; Prepared Technical Paper – Second Place:
Francisco Diaz and Nichole Schehl; Windmill – Second Place: Jonathan Parra,
Eric Tuccio, Jesus Lopez; Balsa wood bridge – Third Place: Carlos Castro,
Joseph Costello, Emilio Castelar; Jeopardy – Fourth Place: Rachel Andrade, Karen Quach, Jesus Ochoa,
Diana Vargas; Bottle rocket – Fourth Place: Daniel Lopez, Jaime Romero, and
Miguel Saenz.
Dr. Balentine
introduced Mr. Chuck Bermudez, Principal, who welcomed the M.E.S.A. state
champions. He introduced the team’s
Coach, Ms. Marta Spears. She provided
an overview of the awards achieved and introduced the team members. These teams achieved first place at the
Regional and State level competitions and will represent Arizona at the
National-level competition in Albuquerque, New Mexico, in June.
Team members
presented each Board member with a M.E.S.A. T-shirt. Ms. Young Wright wished the M.E.S.A. Team the best of luck at
their New Mexico competition and requested an update following their return.
6. Recognition of Dr. Robert
Springer of Saddlebrooke/Points of Light Foundation
Board Book
Information: Dr. Robert Springer, retired engineer, will be recognized for his
contributions in the area of math support to Ironwood Ridge High School and the
Amphitheater School District.
Dr. Balentine stated
that Dr. Springer recently received recognition by the White House with the
Point of Light award. She invited Dr.
Sam McClung, Principal from Ironwood Ridge High School, to introduce Dr.
Springer and provide an overview of his accomplishments.
Dr. Springer has
developed a program entitled, “Project
Catapult,” which has raised money to implement a remedial program and also
provides volunteer staff and staff training.
This program was introduced to IRHS in the fall of 2001. He contributes weekly data that monitors
student and school progress in basic math-skill improvement. His commitment to the program is
demonstrated by his contributions of time, fund-raising, and other resources to
support the math curriculum.
Dr. Springer provided
a brief overview of the basis for his involvement and interest in this
project. He began tutoring math
students at one school following his retirement as an engineer. He provided the Board with a brief report
and offered to return at a later time to provide a formal presentation.
Mr. Prout presented
Dr. Springer with a certificate commendation.
Board members expressed their appreciation for his efforts. Dr. Springer added that he recently provided
a presentation to the State Board of Education, where he strongly recommended
speeding up the AIMS’ correction process so that students needing assistance
can be placed appropriately at the beginning of the school year.
7. Recognition of Danielle
Mulleneaux, Senior, Canyon del Oro High School, Artist of 110th
Celebration Amphi Poster
Board Book
Information: Danielle Mulleneux, a senior at Canyon del Oro High School, will be
recognized for her contribution of artwork for the Amphi 110th year
poster.
Dr. Balentine
expressed appreciation to Ms. Mulleneaux, for her contribution and the offering
of her artwork. Her watercolor drawing
was selected to become a District poster to commemorate Amphi’s 110th
anniversary. Posters have been placed
at each school and at other sites throughout the District.
Ms. Mulleneaux was
presented with a certificate of commendation.
Her teacher, Ms. Hilary Jones-Wujcik was introduced. Board members expressed appreciation to both
teacher and student.
8. Recognition
of Wilson K-8 School’s Sixth Place Finish in the State Math Counts Competition
Board Book
Information: Eighteen teams from around the state competed in the Math Counts
Competition. Wilson’s team consisted of
eighth graders, Kim Didra, Scott Truitt, Christina Solverson, and Jason Xu The
team placed sixth and Jason and Scott were recognized for placing 12th
and 14th overall.
Ms. Ann Held, teacher at Wilson K-8 School, was the team
coach.
Dr. Balentine
introduced the team’s coach, Ms. Anne Held.
Ms. Held stated that this is the second year that the Team has
participated in this competition. The Team meets once a week during lunchtime
for 35 minutes. She credits the
students’ incredible math aptitude for their successes, given the limited time
allotted for training. She introduced each student. She also recognized Mrs. Betty Peterson, who serves as a parent
volunteer. Students prepare all year;
local competitions are held in February and the state- level competitions are
held in March. This team placed 6th last year and improved to 2nd
place this year.
Mr. Grant presented
each student with a certificate of commendation. Board members expressed appreciation to the teacher and students.
9. Monthly Status Report, Fiscal Year 2003-04,
Expenditure Budget and Classroom Site Fund Inflow
Board Book
Information: A continuing discussion of the status of the district’s 2003-04 monthly
expenditures versus annual expenditure budget and an update on the funding
status of the Classroom Site Fund.
The
last distribution of 301 monies was on February 9, 2004. This distribution was reported at the
Governing Board Meeting on February 24, 2004.
As of this date, there are no additional 301 monies to report.
Dr. Balentine reviewed the monthly financial information and the budget spreadsheet charts that were visually projected explaining the District’s expenditures through March 2004. These charts were broken down to report this year’s Budget Capacity, and expenditures for M & O, Dropout Prevention, Desegregation, Transportation, all Special Education, and Excess Utilities. Last year’s to-date activity was shown for comparisons.
Totals shown for 2003-2004, as of March 31, 2004, are as follows:
Adopted Budget Capacity (revised 12/9/03) ….. $77,931,445.00
Total Expenditures as of 3/31/04 ….. $53,126,315.37
Total Encumbrances Outstanding as of 3/31/04 …..
$22,238,953.97
Total Combined Expenditures and Encumbrances as of
3/31/04 ….. $75,465,269.34
Remaining Budget (unspent and un-encumbered monies)
3/31/04 ….. $ 2,466,175.66
Totals’ Comparisons:
Expenditures
as of 3/31/03 ….. $52,856,973.90 M
& O Budget Capacity for 2002-03 ….. $75,249,279.00
Expenditures
as of 3/31/04 ….. $53,126.315.37 M
& O Budget Capacity for 2003-04 ….. $77,931,445.00
CONSENT AGENDA
A motion was made by Mrs. Clymer to approve consent agenda items A – L. The motion was seconded by Mr. Grant and passed unanimously, 5-0. Appointment of personnel is effective, provided all district, state and federal requirements are met.
A. Approval of
Minutes From Previous Meeting(s)
Minutes of the April
13, 2004 Regular Governing Board Meeting were approved.
B. Revision of
Appointments
Certified and
classified personnel were appointed, as listed in Exhibit 1.
C. Personnel Changes
Certified and classified personnel changes were approved, as listed in Exhibit 2.
D. Leave(s) of
Absence
Leave of absence requests were approved for certified and classified personnel, as listed in Exhibit 3.
E. Separation(s) and
Termination(s)
Certified and classified personnel separations were approved, as listed in Exhibit 4.
F. Approval of
Vouchers Totaling and Not Exceeding Approximately $940,000.00 (Revised Total)
The following vouchers were approved as presented and payment authorized:
Vo. 602 $ 510,881.54
Vo. 603 $ 53,578.77
Vo. 604 $ 13,190.31
Vo. 605 $ 208,303.74
Vo. 606 $ 148,137.61
G. Acceptance of Gifts
Donations were
accepted by the Governing Board, as listed in Exhibit 5.
H. Approval of
Out-of-State Travel
Out-of-state travel
was approved for students (source of funding indicated): Amphitheater School
District has a tradition of participation in the Odyssey of the Mind (OM) and
Future Problem Solving; OM competitions will be held May 27 – June 2 in College
Park, Maryland and Future Problem Solving competitions will be held June 2-6 in
Lexington, Connecticut. This year,
school teams winning state competitions include Ironwood Ridge High School,
Amphitheater High School, Canyon del Oro High School, Mesa Verde Elementary
School, Cross Middle School, and Donaldson Elementary School (fundraising, tax
credit contributions, and state funds for gifted education will help pay for
the teams to travel to world competition).
I.
Review and Approval
of Mini-Grants for Nash Elementary School
Board Book
Information: Board Book Information: Nash Elementary School has received two
mini-grants from the Community Foundation for Southern Arizona for a total of
$4,000. The grants are, “Integrating
Literacy Into Science and Social Studies Themes” for first grade and “Make It and Take It” reading program for
second grade students and parents.
The Governing Board approved the Mini-grants, as presented.
J. Approval of
Contracts for the 2004-2005 Fiscal Year for Administrative, Administrative
Exempt, Certificated, and Professional Non-Teaching Employee Groups;
Authorization to Issue Contracts.
Board Book Information: The Governing Board approved the negotiated
compensation and fringe benefits packages for the District’s employee groups on
April 12, 2004, providing in short, for step movement (one step) and a five
percent (5%) increase on all steps. The
next step required to execute the Board’s action is the issuance of contract
forms to those employee groups receiving contracts. Forms of contract have been prepared and are attached.
The
Governing Board approved the (administrative, administrative-exempt,
certificated, and professional non-teaching groups) contracts, as presented,
and to issue contracts appropriate to those personnel (Exhibit 7).
K.
Approval of
Participation of Eligible Employees in Early Retirement Phase-Out Program
Beginning in 2004-2005 Fiscal Year; Approval of Continued Funding for
Previously Approved Current Participants of the Early Retirement Phase Out
Program.
Board
Book Information: The
District received applications from 92 employees this year seeking permission
from the Governing Board to participate in the District’s Early Retirement
Phase-Out Program (ERPOP). Under the
ERPOP, only a limited number of employees can participate each year – no more
than 1.5% of the total number of full-time employees in the District. For this fiscal year, that number would
represent up to 23 slots.
With more than four times as many applicants for
participation as “spaces” for participation, the ERPOP’s priority ranking
system has been applied to identify 23 employees with the highest
rankings. That ranking system, the
Board will recall, consists of the sum of each employee’s age in years and
years of experience with the District, with the highest totals qualifying for
participation first.
A confidential list is attached which sets forth the 23
highest ranking applicants by name, classification, position, site, ERPOP
Option, sum of age and experience, effective date of retirement, and projected
cost for the 04-05 fiscal year. This
list will remain confidential until action is taken by the Board as, until
then, the list is a draft personnel document (Exhibit 9). It also contains confidential information
about specific employees. Attached for
public review at this time, however, is a “blind” listing of the 23 individuals
showing only the group to which the employee belongs, the ERPOP Option
requested, the effective date of retirement and the projected 04-05 cost.
As the materials indicate, the projected cost for next
fiscal year for this group of employees under the ERPOP would be
$323,400.40. This includes, however,
sick-leave buyouts for eligible employees selecting Options B and C, whose
employment would terminate under those options. Costs for ERPOP participation alone for next year, excluding sick
leave payouts, would be $180,872.
Continuing costs for next fiscal year for those employees
who were approved in the last two years for participation in the ERPOP are
approximately $240,559. This brings
next year’s total expenditure for the ERPOP to approximately $563,959.40.
Continuing costs of the District’s former Early Retirement Program continue to decrease since the ERPOP was implemented in its place. Next year’s anticipated costs for that program will be approximately $502,523.74, as that amount has substantially declined over time. Ultimately, costs under the former program will end as of the 2011-2012 fiscal year under the current program schedule.
The Governing Board approved the list of 23 employees (Exhibit 9), as submitted, for participation in the Early Retirement Phase Out Program for next fiscal year and to include the continued funding of the groups approved in the last two years for participation in the same program.
L.
Renewal of
the Service Program Contract with the Pima County School Superintendent for
Vocational Rehabilitation Student Services Through the Arizona Department of
Economic Security
Board Book
Information: Student Transition Services (formerly The Youth Transition Program)
provides vocational rehabilitation services to students with disabilities who
are actively engaged in the transition from school to work through coordination
of services between the District and the Arizona Department of Economic
Security (DES). Both DES and the
District have legal obligations to provide such services to these students.
Amphitheater has participated in this program for several
years. This item is presented for Board
approval of the renewal of the Service Program Contract between the District
and the Pima County School Superintendent for the term July 1, 2003 through
June 30, 2004.
The County Superintendent will undertake coordination of services. Costs of coordination are covered through a 2% retention fee.
The Governing Board approved the renewal of the Service Program contract with the Pima County School Superintendent, as submitted (Exhibit 8).
Mr. Prout: Suggested
that the Board consider sending a Resolution to the Legislature regarding
releasing AIMS results in a timely manner.
Mr. Prout asked about reviewing the current free-travel
chaperone policy. Dr. Balentine
responded that it is planned for the next meeting.
PUBLIC COMMENT
No audience members addressed the Board.
ADJOURNMENT
A motion was made by Mr. Prout, seconded by Mrs. Clymer and
passed unanimously, that the meeting be adjourned. The time was 8:20 p.m.
_________________________________
Respectfully
submitted,
Margaret
Harris
5.11.04
______________________________ __________
Ms. Nancy Young
Wright, President Date