MINUTES OF REGULAR PUBLIC MEETING OF GOVERNING BOARD
Place, Date and Time of Meeting
701 W. Wetmore Road, August 22, 2000, 5:03 p.m.
Board Members Present
Dr. Kenneth Smith, President
Nancy Young Wright, Vice President/Clerk
Kent Barrabee, Member
Mike Prout, Member
Mary Schuh, Member
Central Administrators Present
Dr. Vicki M. Balentine, Superintendent
Dr. Katie M. Frey, Associate Superintendent
Dr. Richard Hooley, Associate Superintendent
John E. Rose, Associate Superintendent
Todd A. Jaeger, J.D., Associate to Superintendent and General Counsel
Call to Order and Signing of Visitors Register
Dr. Kenneth Smith called the meeting to order and asked members of the audience to sign the visitors register.
1. Motion to Recess Open Meeting and Hold an Executive Session:
| A. Review of and Determination Upon Appeal of a Student Promotion, Pursuant to
A.R.S. § 15-341(11) B. Discussions or Consultations with Designated Representatives of the Public Body in Order to Consider its Position and Instruct Its Representatives Regarding Negotiations for the Purchase or Lease of Real Property, Pursuant to A.R.S. § 38-431.03(A)(7)  1) Purchase of Alternative High School Site
C. Discussion and Consultation with Representatives of the Governing Board Regarding
Negotiations with Employee Organizations Regarding Salaries, Salary Schedules, or Other
Compensation for Classified, Certificated, Other Non-Teaching Professional, and Administrative
Personnel, Pursuant to A.R.S. § 38-431.03(A)(5) |
Dr. Smith announced that the Board would recess open meeting and hold an executive session pursuant to the statutes and regarding the matters set forth above.
A motion was made by Ms. Young Wright, seconded by Dr. Barrabee and passed unanimously, to recess into executive session. The time was 5:05 p.m.
Reconvening of Meeting and Signing of Visitors Register
Following the executive session, Dr. Smith reconvened the meeting at 7:08 p.m., and asked
members of the audience to sign the visitors register. Procedures for addressing the Board
were described.
Pledge of Allegiance
Donna Kelly, Principal of Copper Creek Elementary School, introduced Hayley Evans, Sarah
Sutton, Ashley Yanez and Andy Conboy. They led the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag and were
presented with certificates of commendation.
2. Announcement of Date and Place of Next Meeting
Dr. Smith announced the next regular meeting of the Governing Board: September 12, 2000,
7:00 p.m., at Wetmore Center, 701 West Wetmore.
Recognition of State Representatives of the Future Farmers of America
Jose Bernal, advisor for Future Farmers of America, recognized the students who will be
attending the National Future Farmers of America Convention in October: Stephanie Pennell,
Damon Dowell, Erike Hernandez, Angelia Masulis, and April Vanscoy. They were presented with
certificates of commendation.
Recognition of Amphitheater Education Association Board of Directors
John Lewandowski, President of the Amphitheater Education Association, stated that he felt it
was important that the Board and community know who the leaders and spokespersons of the AEA
are. He introduced the following: Peggy Woods, Vice President – Certified; Mark Cavendish,
Vice President – ESP (Classified); Judith Lewandowski, Secretary; Andrea Shiers, Treasurer;
Hank Rowe, Past President; Paul Machelor, Senior High Representative; Arlene Hibben, Senior
High Representative, Gary Putnam, Middle School Representative; Darlene Rowe, K-8
Representative; Rhonda Ball, Elementary Representative; Lynn Lybeck, Elementary Representative;
Adrienne Ledford, ESP Representative; and Fran Samuel, ESP Representative.
The following audience members spoke: John Lewandowski, commenting on a special meeting for salary raises; and Marc Sabb, commenting on the shortage of teachers.
Audience member Hank Rowe spoke on item E. A request was made by Dr. Smith to remove items F and G from the consent agenda vote; Ms. Schuh requested item J be removed, and Ms. Young Wright requested item I be removed. Ms. Young Wright inquired whether an executive session could be held on item E, to which Mr. Jaeger replied that since 24 hour notice had not been given to the employees, personnel matters regarding them could not be discussed in executive session.
A motion was made by Ms. Young Wright, seconded by Mr. Prout and passed unanimously, to approve consent agenda items A-E and H. Appointment of personnel is effective, provided all district, state and federal requirements are met.
A motion was made by Dr. Smith, seconded by Ms. Young Wright and passed unanimously, to approve consent agenda item F, with the caveat that the specific job assignment of affected individuals who will perform service next year be determined by the Superintendent and/or the Governing Board in accordance with District Policies and Regulations.
Ms. Young Wright questioned an expenditure of $22,544.12; Mr. Rose explained that it was for re-grading the ball park diamond area and installing a sidewalk, hand rail and rip rap at Cross Middle School, funded from the Capital Outlay budget. Ms. Young Wright felt it was of interest to find out where some of the money is being spent in some of the other areas. A motion was made by Ms. Young Wright, seconded by Ms. Schuh and passed unanimously, to approve item I.
Ms. Schuh expressed her concern about the Success for All program and its results in the schools. A motion was made by Ms. Schuh and seconded by Dr. Barrabee, to approve item J.
Mr. Prout questioned the competitive bid process and why it was a sole source bid. Dr. Balentine explained that this was a result of an Auditor General recommendation that sole source bids over $5,000 be brought to the Board for approval; however, due to problems implementing the requirement, the Auditor General has backed off and, at this point in time, it is not a requirement. This is the only group that provides the material needed for the Success for All program. Dr. Balentine also explained the components of the program, why Title I schools have adopted the program and how it can be funded by federal funds. Dr. Smith requested data on the success of Success for All in the Amphitheater School District.
A motion was made by Mr. Prout and seconded by Ms. Young Wright, to approve item J. The motion passed 4-1, with Ms. Schuh voting no.
A motion was made by Dr. Smith and seconded by Mr. Prout to approve item G. Barbara Kohl, District Grant Writer, and Phil Woodall, Principal of La Cima Middle School, explained the grant and the anticipated results of the protective factors for drug abuse and violence. Dr. Smith offered the congratulations of the Board on obtaining this grant with its anticipated results. Dr. Barrabee questioned how the district would provide for the provision of the continuing Coordinator position after the grant ends. Administration replied that alternative sources of funding would be pursued.
The motion passed 5-0.
| A. Approval of Minutes Minutes of the May 5, 2000, May 8, 2000, and July 25, 2000, Governing Board meetings were approved.
B. Appointment of Personnel
C. Personnel Changes
D. Leave(s) of Absence
E. Separation(s) and Termination(s)
F. Requests for Early Retirement with Special Benefits
G. Middle School Drug Prevention and School Safety Coordinator Grant
H. Approval of Arizona School Boards Association Membership Dues for 2000-2001
I. Approval of Vouchers
J. Proposal of Sole Source Procurement |
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5. Monthly New High School Construction Update
Doug Aho, Director, Construction Management, presented an update, stating that the new high
school was at 51% completion, within budget, and on schedule. The washes have been jacked and
bored without any disturbance. A detailed report on the completion of each building was
presented. The sports fields are being completed to allow for a year's growth before use, and
the underground water system has been accepted by Tucson Water.
Dr. Frey provided a detailed report on expenditures to date, anticipated expenditures, and the difference between budgeted and expended costs. The total budget is $39,595,471. To date, $33,763,163 has been committed for expenditures. With anticipated expenditures, the total is estimated to be $39,494,197, leaving a surplus at this time of $101,274. Permits and fees have exceeded expectations due to increases by the County. There have been discussions about having the fees waived, but it was decided that it would slow down the construction process. Dr. Smith asked who made that decision; Dr. Frey replied that it was the former Superintendent. Technology, furniture, fixtures and equipment have been budgeted for $4,301,000, and it is anticipated all monies will be spent. Soft capital money in the amount of $500,000 from fiscal year 2002, and $200,000 from fiscal years 2003 and 2004, has been set aside to help with additional needs as new grade levels are brought into the high school. Dr. Smith asked about the supplemental costs that included the security at the site prior to construction and who authorized the expenditure; Mr. Jaeger replied that it was the former Superintendent. No change orders have been approved to date; however, some are being reviewed. Casas Adobes did additional work on its sewer system, which allowed the district to connect with that sewer system, saving a great deal of money. The costs paid to Casas Adobes were $20,661, per the agreement. Dr. Frey will provide, in the next monthly report, the savings to the district resulting from being able to construct the sewer in this manner.
Ms. Young Wright inquired what percentage of the budgeted money for books and supplies will be used to outfit the library. Dr. Hooley stated that he did not have a percentage that he could provide. Dr. Smith asked about the land that the sewer line crosses behind the school; who owns the land and how was permission obtained for this line? Mr. Jaeger responded that combined with the additional land purchase from the Kai family, this easement for utility purposes was also acquired. Dr. Barrabee asked about the acquisition of software for technology. Administration replied that the core software used in all schools would be provided, plus additional acquisitions made each year. Ms. Schuh asked if the new school would be in compliance with the new ordinance on lighting just passed by the County; Mr. Aho replied that it would be in compliance. Addressing Dr. Balentine, Dr. Smith cited expenditures of $179,130 and $124,439 that were decided upon by the former Superintendent without bringing them to the Board, and requested that type of disbursement without the knowledge of the Board not be authorized anymore.
Dr. Hooley reported that visits to the high schools to talk to teachers about transferring to the new high school and letters to all classified personnel in the district to consider a transfer and to work on the committees were being completed. Selection of the hiring team will be in early September and the core team will be selected shortly thereafter. Letters to parents of students who will be attending the new high school are drafted and awaiting labels. There will be a parent meeting at Wilson School to discuss the new high school and to invite input on the various committees planned.
In reference to the library, CDO has agreed to provide duplicate copies of texts. In addition, a portion of this year's budget has been set aside for ninth graders coming into the school, so that the books will follow them. That will be approximately $4,500. It has been suggested that the reference materials be purchased first and that fiction and other books be solicited from different groups. Ms. Young Wright suggested that means used by other new schools to furnish a library be investigated.
Mr. Prout inquired about the participation of parents on committees, deadlines for participation, and how the information will be made available. Dr. Hooley replied that he would take as many volunteers as possible on each of the committees; these committees will also include students. In October, the naming of the school will occur and the mascot will be selected.
Dr. Barrabee asked if there was a vision of how technology will be used in the new high school. Administration replied that there are several models in the district that have proved successful and enough technology is provided in the school so instructors can choose what they wish in the instructional mode. Dr. Barrabee also asked if any provision had been made for distance learning. Ron Shannon, Director of Technology, replied at this time there is none, and costs can be prohibitive.
Ms. Young Wright questioned the policy of staffing of the new high school. Dr. Hooley replied that voluntary transfers would be considered first, and then involuntary transfers would be considered. Protected are those in their first or second year of teaching; a principal may protect one teacher in each department. The goal is to have experienced teachers in all schools. Dr. Smith asked if this policy is in writing; Dr. Hooley will provide a copy to the Board. Mr. Prout asked if the policy provides methodology for involuntary transfers. Administration replied it is done by seniority, location seniority and department seniority. There is also another provision that a percentage of the staff will remain at the school. This is provided for in the negotiated policy.
Dr. Barrabee asked about provisions for homebound students. Dr. Balentine suggested that a presentation be made through the Special Education department.
Dr. Balentine stated that in order to insure that the 4-pipe, 2-pipe situation has been investigated fully, a private firm has been asked for a computer model to assure that the 2-pipe system is valid. So that the public may be informed of the construction progress of the new high school, signs to show the completion percentage will be posted at Wetmore and the schools who will have students attending the new high school.
6. Report on the Status of Vocational Education at District High Schools
Dr. Hooley reported that at a conference for vocational technical education there was much
discussion on the stigma associated with vocational education. Conclusions reached were that
goals, including those of relevance and career-oriented use for all students, are realized when
there is an integrated educational experience for all students. This means all students can
be involved in vocational education regardless of their plans after high school. No school can
offer the entire range of classes for vocational purposes; high schools offer specific focused
courses based on student enrollment, interests, and availability of instructors. The
vocational programs and sequences for both high schools were presented. The vocational
planning for the new high school was based on the "capstone model" and vocational programs were
based on industry needs in the 21st Century.
Dr. Barrabee asked about a joint vocational high school in the future and the needs of the students. Dr. Hooley replied that research is in progress, but there are a number of political and economic issues that would need to be addressed. One of the problems is getting students to attend these schools rather than their regular schools. The satellite concept is being studied in Pima Country. Dr. Balentine responded that the district is exploring how needs of the students might be met in a variety of ways. Ms. Schuh announced that the County has activated new bonds to build a new charter school for vocational schools.
Ms. Young Wright questioned the courses that charged fees and were not listed in the sequences; Dr. Hooley replied that the courses are represented in the vocational sequences. Ms. Young Wright asked if comparable programs were being presented at both high schools. Dr. Hooley stated that efforts have been made to provide the programs that students at each of the high schools have indicated they want. Dr. Barrabee asked about transportation for students to attend vocational education courses at a different high school. Administration replied that it is not done at this time. Dr. Smith asked about the policy of open enrollment at the high schools; Dr. Balentine replied that it would be brought to the Board in the near future. Audience member Peggie Thomas addressed the Board.
7. Adoption of Revisions to Policies GCI, GDCE, IJOA, and JJH and Corresponding Regulations
Regarding Travel; Direction Regarding Revisions of Policy
Dr. Balentine stated that these policies had been discussed in detail at the August 8, 2000,
Board meeting and the final changes were being presented for approval. Policy GCI and
corresponding Regulation GCI-RC relate to travel by administrative and certificated personnel;
Policy GDCE and Regulation GDCE-R, travel by classified employees; Policy IOJA and Regulation
IJOA-R, student field trips; and Policy JJH relates to student travel generally.
The policies and regulations include the following changes:
A motion was made by Ms. Young Wright, seconded by Ms. Schuh and passed unanimously, to adopt Policies GCI, GDCE, IJOA, and JJH and corresponding Regulations.
8. Adoption of Revisions of District Policy EEB and Corresponding Regulations Regarding
Business and Personal Transportation Services, Including Use of District Vehicles
Dr. Balentine related that this policy was discussed at the August 8, 2000, Board meeting and
the final version was being presented for Board approval.
A motion was made by Ms. Schuh, seconded by Mr. Prout and passed unanimously, to adopt Policy EEB and corresponding Regulations.
9. Discussion/Action Regarding Substitute Teacher Pay Rates
Dr. Balentine stated that there have been many conversations about increasing pay for
substitutes, particularly since TUSD raised its rates this year. The administration
recommended approval of a raise to $75 per day and $85 per day for days 21-40, to be comparable
with TUSD.
A motion was made by Mr. Prout and seconded by Ms. Schuh to approve the recommendation of the administration.
Mr. Prout asked if it were possible to enhance this to make it possible for Amphitheater to be 1% above any other district in the county. Dr. Balentine replied that the cost of the proposed raise, which will be approximately $164,000, is stretching the budget and any additional raise would be difficult to fund. She also suggested that in January a report be given to the Board regarding the substitute situation within the district. Ms. Schuh commended the administration for finding the money in the budget to fund this raise. Mr. Prout proposed to amend the motion to state that Amphitheater would be 1% above any other district. There was no second to the amendment. Dr. Barrabee wanted it noted that he did not feel that the amount paid was enough, but that it was the amount the budget could accommodate at this point.
The motion passed unanimously.
10. Study/Direction Regarding Revision of 2000-2001 Governing Board Meeting Dates and
Locations
Dr. Balentine stated that the last Board meeting in October is scheduled for October 31, 2000,
which is Halloween, and suggested that it be moved either to Monday, October 30, 2000, or to
Wednesday, November 1, 2000.
A motion was made by Dr. Barrabee, seconded by Mr. Prout and passed unanimously, that the meeting be moved to Monday, October 30, 2000.
Mr. Prout asked to readdress the idea of having only quarterly meetings at different sites and asked if there had been any more thought about the problems that might arise. Dr. Balentine responded that until the first meeting at Nash, September 26, 2000, was held, administration would not be able to provide further information. The Board agreed that revisiting the issue after the September meeting would be acceptable.
11. Study of Revision to Policy EGAF Regarding Telephone Services, Including Addition of
Language Regarding Use of Cellular Phones, Radios and Pagers
Dr. Balentine presented this item with draft changes to the policy as requested by the Board at
an earlier date. Ms. Schuh questioned why some departments had cell phones and why landline
phones could not be used whenever possible. She also asked if there was legal document or was
the district protected legally from being sued by people using the cell phones and any personal
damages that might result from that use. She also requested that a statement be included in
the policy that talking on the cell phone while driving was prohibited. Discussion on damages
resulting from use of cell phones and replacement of antennae continued. Mr. Prout suggested
that children not be allowed to use district cell phones because of the possible damage that
might result.
Ms. Young Wright asked about the use of phones for personal reasons. Mr. Jaeger replied that there was nothing in the law that prohibits the use, but when a cost is incurred, that cost should be reimbursed. Ms. Young Wright was concerned about the extra cost that might be incurred by use of a cell phone rather than the flat-rate charges for a regular phone. Dr. Balentine replied that most of the cell phones also have plans that provide for a flat rate, rather than individual charges. Ms. Young Wright asked that the statement about reimbursement for charges incurred for personal use be clarified.
12. Discussion of Custodial Cost Savings
A presentation was given by John Ritchie, Principal, and David Flores, Head Custodian, of
Wilson K-8 School, providing information on a team-cleaning plan that may result in cost
savings. Projected cost savings were presented. This program has been implemented at Wilson
this year, but cost savings results were not available at this time. Ms. Schuh commented that
other school districts have realized savings through this program and applauded the efforts of
Mr. Ritchie and Mr. Flores in being innovative. Dr. Barrabee commented on the intangible
savings of this program. Discussion on future implementation ensued.
Audience member Marc Cavendish addressed the Board.
Mr. Prout asked if it would be a good idea to have custodian input while a school is being built; the response from the custodians present was that it would be most helpful. Mr. Prout commented it might be appropriate to include custodial input at the new high school at this time.
No members of the audience addressed the Board.
13. Requests for Future Agenda Items
Dr. Barrabee will be preparing materials for clarification on leasing of premises, to be
presented at a later date.
Ms. Schuh requested discussion on a model for saving money in the custodial arena. Her second request was for the definition of curriculum guidelines within the district.
Dr. Smith requested that the issue of children riding their bicycles on the approach streets into the schools be looked into, with consideration given to bicycle lanes and safety issues.
A motion was made by Ms. Schuh, seconded by Mr. Prout and passed unanimously, that the meeting be adjourned. The time was 9:54 p.m.