MINUTES OF REGULAR PUBLIC MEETING OF GOVERNING BOARD
Place, Date and Time of Meeting
701 W. Wetmore Road, August 8, 2000, 5:30 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
r. 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.
1. Motion to Recess Open Meeting and Hold an Executive Session
Dr. Smith announced that the Board would recess open meeting and hold an executive session for:
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A. 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)
B. Consultations or Discussions with Legal Counsel, Pursuant to A.R.S. § 38-431.03(A) (3-4),
Regarding the District's Position in: |
A motion was made by Ms. Schuh, seconded by Ms. Young Wright and passed unanimously, that the Board recess into executive session. The time was 5:33 p.m.
Reconvening of Meeting and Signing of Visitors Register
Following the executive session, Dr. Smith reconvened the meeting at 7:14 p.m., and asked
members of the audience to sign the visitors register. Procedures for addressing the Board
were described.
Pledge of Allegiance
Principal Phil Woodall introduced students from La Cima Middle School, who led the Pledge of
Allegiance: Stephanie Brady, Melissa Brady, Lindsay Cota and Nicholas Kleespie.
2. Announcement of Date and Place of Next Meeting
Dr. Smith announced the next regular meeting of the Governing Board: August 22, 2000,
7:00 p.m., at Wetmore Center, 701 West Wetmore.
Karyn L. Vick spoke regarding placement of new teachers on the salary schedule.
A motion was made by Ms. Schuh and seconded by Dr. Barrabee to approve consent agenda items A-H, concluding with Vouchers. Ms. Young Wright asked that item A, Approval of Minutes of Previous Meeting, be considered separately. It was acceptable to the maker and seconder of the motion to approve the consent agenda with the exception of item A. The motion passed unanimously. Appointment of personnel is effective, provided all district, state and federal requirements are met.
Ms. Young Wright noted that for the minutes of June 27, 2000, under Public Comment the name should read Rhonda Ball. A motion was made by Ms. Schuh, seconded by Dr. Barrabee and passed unanimously to approve Item A as corrected.
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A. Approval of Minutes Minutes of the February 8 and June 27 (correction noted above), 2000 Governing Board meetings were approved.
B. Appointment of Personnel C. Personnel Changes Certified and classified personnel changes were approved, as listed in Exhibit 2.
D. Leave(s) of Absence
E. Separation(s) and Termination(s)
F. Acceptance of Gifts
G. Approval of Governing Board Member(s) and Superintendent Travel
H. Approval of Vouchers
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3. Study/Action on Regulation Change: CE-RB - Career Ladder Steering Committee
Composition
Dr. Hooley presented proposed changes to Regulation C-1112.1, to bring the Career Ladder
Steering Committee, which has not convened in several years, in compliance with Arizona State
law. The new regulation will establish a broader base of participation from all sites, and
parents, administration, and the Governing Board.
Discussion followed, with Ms. Deanna Day, Career Ladder Manager, providing input. She stated that, with approval of the regulation change, the first meeting can be held in September. The membership selection process was outlined; Mr. Prout volunteered to serve on the committee. In discussion, Mr. Jaeger stated that the Career Ladder Steering Committee is required by law to assist in the development and refinement of Career Ladder programs. The committee is subject to open meeting law requirements and must post notices/agendas, and allow the public to participate in intent; it is not bound by the minutes requirement. Mr. Jaeger stated that the Governing Board has in its discretion the right to mandate that call to the audience be agendized for meetings. By consensus, the Board directed that this be a requirement for all committees of the Board.
In discussion, it was noted that under the new steering committee guidelines the Career Ladder Manager no longer has veto power over the steering committee. Ms. Young Wright asked that the committee be as inclusive as possible, and suggested that a press release be issued to invite parent participation. Ms. Day spoke of plans now being implemented to inform district employees and the public of the steering committee and its meetings. Ms. Young Wright asked that the Community Relations Department be utilized in getting information out. There was discussion of participation by classified employees.
Mr. Prout noted a conflict between A.R.S. § 15-918.02(A)(5) and the State Board Requirements regarding Career Ladder salaries. Mr. Jaeger stated that this is an inconsistency in education law, and that the State Board of Education interprets the law and gives districts guidance.
John Lewandowski, Amphitheater Education Association President, addressed the board, in appreciation of Ms. Day's work on Career Ladder, and regarding the appointment by Amphi E.A. of a representative to the steering committee.
A motion was made by Ms. Young Wright and seconded by Ms. Schuh to adopt Regulation CE-RB – Career Ladder Steering Committee Composition, as proposed by staff. The motion passed unanimously.
4. AIMS Update
Dr. Hooley presented information on AIMS testing, noting changes the district is working
toward implementing. Ms. Young Wright will compose a letter from the board to thank Julie
Thayer, Director of Title I, for her work this summer in this area. Mr. Prout spoke of the
impact AIMS will have on the district budget; Dr. Barrabee referred to the importance of the
district being in a position to handle the ramifications of the testing. Mr. Prout suggested
that during the ensuing year the Board develop long-range plans, including elementary-school
level as well as the high-school years. Ms. Young Wright asked that, in addition to developing
a long-term plan, the district not abandon its efforts to try to get the legislature to listen
to funding concerns.
Dr. Barrabee stated that we would see many more revisions for the tests, that the fit between tests and reality is missed. Mr. Prout stated that there will be an impact on the budget if we have extra school days to help with passing AIMS tests; he asked for a follow-up on this matter. Ms. Young Wright noted that some states have dropped exit tests because of dropouts in school; expectations are high and we may need more money to help students and teachers.
5. Review of 1994 Bond Completed Projects
Dr. Frey reviewed the 1994 bond completed
projects, referring to the Capital Expansion Budget and the 1994 Bonds Project Summary, and
responded to Board questions. Dr. Barrabee encouraged District residents to request copies of
these reports, for their perusal and input to the Board. Mr. Prout requested that these
reports be placed on the District's web site. Dr. Smith noted that the reports would need
accompanying explanations; Dr. Barrabee, that the acronyms would also need to be made clear.
In response to a question from Ms. Young Wright regarding the preschool at Coronado, Dr. Frey replied that it is on hold because of lack of funds. In response to inquiry by Ms. Schuh regarding purchase of land for the fourth high school, it was noted that Mr. Jaeger would cover this matter at a future Board meeting. Mr. Prout asked that staff prepare a statement as to exactly how much of the bond money is used, not for K-12 education, but for other purposes, such as buildings.
6. Report on Bathroom Repairs and Renovations at Amphitheater High School and Canyon del Oro
High School and Direction from the Governing Board
Dr. Hooley reported it was the recommendation of the administration that the assistant
principals at both high-school sites complete all work orders as indicated, and that the larger
projects be considered for funding with Building Renewal from the 2000-2001 allocation.
It was noted that inspections and assessments by District personnel had been made and Board members had received the findings for the bathroom facilities at the two high schools. Work is proceeding without further direction needed from the Governing Board.
7. Discussion of and Direction Regarding Employee Directory Information Releases and
Limitations
This item for discussion of directory information releases and limitations was brought back to
the Board to include consideration of employees. Mr. Jaeger provided background information.
Discussion included the Attorney General's ruling regarding rights of privacy for employees;
and discussion regarding use of student information. Mr. Jaeger stated that public records are
available to whomever for whatever purpose they determine; the District's own limitation is in
charging more when the information will be used for commercial purpose. He added that the law
restricts the school district from using its resources, but the district cannot control another
party from obtaining public records and using the information politically or for other
purposes. During discussion, audience member Andy Morales twice addressed the Board. Ms. Young
Wright expressed concern that resources not be used to influence employees during elections,
and stated that there are still issues to be resolved.
There was discussion of the fact that no district employee directory will be produced, and that no circumvention will be tolerated; there was great emphasis placed on the protection of employees, children and parents. A letter will be sent to district employees from Dr. Balentine to bring closure on release of directory information and allow people to move forward.
8. Revision of District Policy EEB and Corresponding Regulations Regarding Business and
Personal Transportation Services, Including Use of District Vehicles
Dr. Balentine stated that revision of Policy EEB and its corresponding regulations had been
prepared based upon discussions of the Governing Board, and was being presented for study
only. Dr. Balentine and Mr. Jaeger reviewed the revisions. Mr. Prout suggested that staff
review whether the requirement of an operator's permit from the state is sufficient, and
whether more training should be required for drivers; Dr. Balentine responded that the
administration will research this and report back to the Board. Mr. Prout asked that the
district consider minimization of risk by (1) increasing training; and (2) decreasing exposure
by reducing the number of trips. Ms. Schuh expressed concern over lack of agreements with
non-district entities using district transportation and raised questions regarding
reimbursement and insurance. She asked that use of the drivers' education car be placed on
hold until clarification is received on who is using it and why/the relationship with the
district/insurance. This will be included on an upcoming agenda. In response to Ms. Schuh's
inquiry regarding a contract with ACES/Pima County, Mr. Jaeger will provide this information.
Andy Morales and Vilma Anderson addressed the board regarding this agenda item. Mr. Prout
requested that pertinent information be disseminated to district staff (press release).
Mr. Prout noted, in Regulation EEB-RB, the requirement for rear seating of children when being transported in a personal vehicle, and asked that this be made a requirement for transporting students in district vehicles. Additional follow-up: Administration will see if health clerks need to be incorporated in the category of persons authorized to transport students; and will explore the possibility of prepositioning a vehicle in the district, possibly in the north, to provide quicker access.
9. Discussion of Policies GCI, GDCE, IJOA, and JJH and Corresponding Regulations Regarding
Travel; Direction Regarding Revisions of Policy
Policies GCI, GDCE, IJOA, and JJH and corresponding Regulations regarding travel were presented
for initial study. At the August 22, 2000 meeting they will be presented for approval.
Changes were proposed to Regulation GCI-RC, Travel Allotments, Conventions/Conferences: National conventions and national academies may be attended, assuming budgetary availability:
The Board will receive periodic updates on Board travel expenses so the Board may monitor its expenses, not to exceed the allotted amount. Board members will follow GCI-RC, Frequent Flyer Miles and Other Incentives, as outlined for district employees.
10. Approval of Transfer of Ownership for Stone Avenue Widening Project at Amphitheater High
School
In order to close out the Stone Avenue widening project at Amphitheater High School, the City
of Tucson requires a transfer of ownership of the installed improvements. The improvements
include the part of Stone Avenue adjacent to the AHS parking lot where the new turn lane was
added to improve traffic flow. These improvements were funded by the District but maintenance
will be handled by the City of Tucson, requiring transfer of ownership of the improvements to
the City. The land has already been given to the City through a pedestrian easement that was
granted in June of 1999. It was the recommendation of the administration that the Governing
Board approve the transfer of ownership to the City of Tucson for the improvements to the Stone
Avenue widening project at Amphitheater High School.
A motion was made by Ms. Schuh to accept the recommendation of the administration and approve the transfer of the ownership for the Stone Avenue widening project at Amphitheater High School. The motion was seconded by Dr. Barrabee and passed unanimously.
11. Approval of New Sewer Easement for New High School
In May of 2000, the Governing Board approved the granting of an easement to Pima County in
order to install the sewer lines for the new high school. This easement will allow the County
to construct, install, maintain, repair and replace sewer lines, manholes and appurtenances
required for the new school. During the construction at the site, it was determined that the
sewer easement needed to be moved farther away from the buildings than was originally
planned. It was the recommendation of the administra-tion that a new sewer easement be
granted to Pima County for the installation of sewer lines at the new high school.
A motion was made by Ms. Young Wright, seconded by Ms. Schuh and passed unanimously, that the
recommendation of the administration be approved.
12. Direction Concerning Participation in Joint Technological Education District
Dr. Smith provided information on the formation of a joint technological education district
(would include all vocational education), as provided by A.R.S. § 15-392. A minimum of two
school districts is required for the establishment of a joint district. The state provides a
substantial amount of funding, with the districts involved making contributions.
Dr. Smith, representing the District, attended an exploratory meeting to discuss the formation of a Tucson-area district. He stated that the only direction required from the Board at this point was that the Superintendent and himself would continue to explore the possibility of the formation of a joint technological education district. The next meeting is scheduled for August 31.
A motion was made by Ms. Schuh that Dr. Smith accept direction from that Board that he and Superintendent Balentine explore the district's potential participation in a joint technological education district and report back in a timely fashion. Dr. Barrabee seconded the motion. He brought the Board's attention to pertinent materials he had received from another district. The motion passed unanimously.
There were no public comments.
13. Requests for Future Agenda Items
Ms. Schuh requested, for the next meeting, a brief report indicating the district is in
compliance with the mandate to have phonics instruction by 2000-2001; and copies of forms for
parents to indicate their choice of program. Ms. Schuh, referencing a State Board of Education
book, asked that Mr. Jaeger research to see if the Governing Board could have more say in how
district monies are invested and have more supervision over this area.
Mr. Prout inquired about the future direction for the Business Advisory Committee. Mr. Jaeger will report back to the Board on policy regarding ad hoc committees, with an interpretation of policy as it applies to this particular situation.
Ms. Young Wright requested an update on the preschool situation in Catalina (budget, assistance needed from Board, time frame).
Dr. Barrabee inquired about involvement with propositions on the November ballot. Dr. Smith stated that ASBA and ASA cooperatively are holding a joint conference for superintendents and board presidents on that subject, which Dr. Balentine and Dr. Smith will attend.
A motion was made by Ms. Schuh, seconded by Mr. Prout and passed unanimously that the meeting be adjourned. The time was 11:05 p.m.
i) Pending or Threatened Litigation by District Employees
or Former Employees; and