Minutes from the August 20th Board of Education meeting

Posted Wednesday, September 12, 2007

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Pittsboro, NC - The Chatham County Board of Education met for a regular session on Monday August 20, 2007 in the CCS Central Office Board room at 7:46 p.m. Members present were Chairman Clark; Vice-chair Deb McManus; Holly Duncan; Kathie Russell; and Gerald Totten. Superintendent Dr. Ann Y. Hart, substitute Board Attorney Trey Allen, and Board Assistant Pamela Cathcart were also present.

Attendees at the meeting included: Robin McCoy, Assistant Superintendent; Paul Joyce, Assistant Superintendent; Susan Little, Chief Financial Officer; Jim Davis, Chief Technology Officer; Beth McCullough, Public Information Officer; David Moody, Director of Secondary Education; Randy Drumheller, Construction Manager; Lori Kleberg; Joseph Pardington; Valgean Mitchell; Julie Vandiver; John Zaremba; Bruce Ladd; Flint O’Brien; Kim Clark Jones; Janice Frazier; Tracy Fowler; Norma Boone; LaWanna Goods; Carrie Little; Sharon Allen; Angie Brady Andrew; Allison Buckner; Mitch Stensland; Steve Cooper; Peter Theye; Meg Miller.
Call to Order:
Chairman Clark called the August 20, 2007 BOE open session to order at 7:46p.m.

Pledge of Allegiance:
Board members led the audience in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance.
Invocation:
Dr. Hart offered the Invocation.

Welcome of Visitors:
Chairman Clark welcomed everyone to the meeting, and then turned the meeting over to Dr. Hart, who also welcomed visitors, thanked everyone for their attendance and for their involvement in the school system.

Adoption of the Agenda
Board members reviewed the agenda for the meeting. Chairman Clark asked if there were any amendments or changes. Col. Totten asked that a discussion regarding the posting of the job description for Paul Joyce’s Assistant Superintendent position be added as item XI. a.
On a motion by Ms. Duncan, seconded by Col. Totten, the Board unanimously approved the agenda as amended.
** APPROVED 8/20/07**(revised 8/20/07)

I. Call to Order Chairman Norman Clark
II. Closed Session Board Members
a.
Student Matter: 143-318.11(a)(1)

b.
Attorney/Client Discussion: 143-318.11(a)(3)

c.
Personnel: 143-318.11(a)(6)

III. Pledge of Allegiance Board Members
IV.
Invocation Dr. Ann Y. Hart

V.
Welcome of Visitors Dr. Ann Y. Hart

VI. Public Comments Chairman Norman Clark
VII. Adoption of the Agenda Chairman Norman Clark
VIII. Approval of Open and Closed Session Minutes from August 6, 2007 Board Members
IX.
Board of Education Sharing and Superintendent’s Comments Dr. Ann Y. Hart

X.
Fundraisers Board Members

XI. Personnel Agenda Dr Tina S. Hester
a. Auxiliary Superintendent’s Job Description Board Members
XII. Request to Declare the Prior Central Office and *North Chatham Jim Davis
School Telephone Systems as Surplus

XIII. *Facility Needs Committee List of School Priorities Chairman Norman Clark
Preliminary Report

XIV. Second Reading: Policy 6121: Student Mental and Emotional Health Dr. Robin B. McCoy
Policy

XV. Second Reading: Policy Series 1000: Governing Principals Board Members
XVI. Second Reading: Policy Series 2000: Board Operations Board Members
XVII. Adjournment Chairman Norman Clark

Approval of Open and Closed Session Minutes
Board members reviewed the open and closed session minutes from the August 6, 2007 meeting. The following corrections were suggested for the 8/6/07 open minutes:
Page 3, paragraph 5: remove the word “a” from the last sentence. The sentence now reads: “According
to Col. Totten, neither the local people, nor the state, see the drainage issue as problematic; the only party
with concerns appears to be CCS.”
Page 4, paragraph 5: remove the last part of the last line of the paragraph. This paragraph now reads:
“Ms. McManus shared that she had attended the June 5th Planning Board meeting where three
developments were recommended.”

On a motion by Col. Totten, seconded by Ms. McManus, the Board unanimously approved the open session minutes from August 6th as amended.
On a motion by Ms. Russell, seconded by Ms. Duncan, the Board unanimously approved the closed session minutes from August 6th as amended.
(Both sets of minutes’ corrections have been completed.)

Board of Education Sharing:
Col. Totten began this agenda item by sharing information he received while attending the Board of Commissioners workshop earlier that morning (8/20/07). The BOC has requested that the BOE have the capital improvements budget to them by December 15, 2007.
The next item of interest to the BOE was a discussion on the land transfer tax. Col. Totten will distribute to the other Board members copies of the information he received at the BOC meeting regarding this tax. The BOE has already approved support of this tax, but there is a question about how much the BOE can contribute to supporting this effort. The BOE can endorse the tax, as can individual Board member, but employees of CCS cannot endorse the tax (reference 153.99, per the county attorney). The BOE cannot use taxpayer monies to facilitate a campaign.
If the tax is passed by voters in November, it will not eliminate the impact fee completely but will reduce it to $1500.00 per home. Col. Totten feels it is important that the BOE and the BOC “be on the same sheet of music” so that the support for this effort is unified, which should help with the passage of this tax. The tax will provide a major source of funding for the schools; it will also increase the county’s debt limit.
Col. Totten went on to confirm the installation of the guardrails at the North Chatham school trailers. Col. Totten stated that Assistant Superintendent Paul Joyce assured him the morning of August 20th that the barrier(s) would be installed no later than the end of the week. Col. Totten also said that he was told that CCS would not incur a fine for non-compliance, and that a letter to the school system had been mailed.
The next information that Col. Totten updated the BOE on was regarding the presentation of the Facility Needs Committee results and recommendations. Col. Totten shared that the BOC is expecting a report from the BOE at their September 17th meeting, and the BOE must let them know when they will present the report.
The Board members reached a consensus to present the Committee’s results at the evening meeting of the BOC on September 17, 2007.
Ms. McManus asked Col. Totten to which poll he referred in his statement; she also asked him if the Commissioners had indicated the money was for schools. Col. Totten replied that the money wasn’t all for the schools but that a majority of it was slated for CCS.
Ms. Russell was the next Board member to share information. She passed out copies of the notes from the land banking committee meeting on August 7th (members are George Lucier, Tracy Burnett and Kathie Russell). She shared the formation about their goals, their next steps and setting up a committee to implement their plans. Ms. Russell requested input be emailed to her at krussell@chatham.k12.nc.us.
(Please see a copy of the notes Ms. Russell submitted at the end of these minutes.)
Ms. Duncan said she didn’t have any formal presentation but she did want to state that she agreed with Col. Totten and his statement that the BOE and the BOC should come together as a cohesive unit and united front. If we want new and/or better schools then taxes will have to be raised. She ended her comments by saying that as a taxpayer she wholeheartedly supported the land tax.
Ms. McManus shared her comments next, and said that she thoroughly enjoyed working with the Facility Needs Committee, and thank them, especially Sharon Allen who attended all three days of tours. Ms. Russell said that everyone should be commended for getting the objectives completed so quickly.
Ms. McManus went on to say that she was pleased to have attended the lunch at Horton Middle School for the newly licensed teachers and that she was glad to see so many excited, fresh faces ready to start a new school year.
Chairman Clark shared that he had received information from the National School Boards Association to nominate a County Commissioner as Commissioner of the Year; it is quite an involved process so please see him for further details. Chairman Clark also presented information from GovDeals about government auctions and about the BOE receiving recognition for their works (please see information on the last two items at the end of these minutes).
Chairman Clark then turned the meeting over to Dr. Hart and her Superintendent’s report.

Superintendent’s Comments:
• Back To School Video – Thanks to Beth McCullough for producing the video. It will be shown at all schools’ opening faculty meetings and will run in the lobby at the central office.
• AYP Results -Last Friday preliminary AYP results were released and show that five of fifteen schools made AYP (down from six last year). Bennett School, Bonlee School, Chatham Central High School, Moncure School, and Silk Hope School. NCLB law divides students in 10 groups (a group must have at least 40 students) and all students and all groups must make Adequate Yearly Progress in performing at grade level or above in reading/language arts and math. A school must meet all targets (the all or nothing criteria) -the number of targets or goals varies from school to school depending on the diversity of the school (diversity in relation to ethnicity, economically disadvantaged, limited English proficiency, and students with disabilities). The more diverse a school, the more targets or goals that will have to be met. We are NOT satisfied with this performance and the central office has redoubled our focus and service to school in the areas of instructional practices, curriculum guides and assessment measures. We plan to showcase the work that is going on at the September 10 BOE meeting. We began our work with the principals and assistant principals at the Administrators’ Retreat last week.
• Admin Retreat info Transforming from Good to Great
Topics – Day 1
Transforming from Good To Great – a personal story Mervin Jenkins
Using Data for School Improvement Robin Tina
The Instructional Walk-through Process – Betty Steffy
LEARN NC -a catalyst to transforming their roles as instructional leaders from "Good to Great!" Bobby Hobgood

Topics – Day 2
Superintendent • What Does It All Mean? Student Achievement Trends • Legislative Update • Crisis Drill – August 23 Ann
Human Resources • New Directions – New and Lateral Entry Teacher Orientation • Mentoring Teachers – Site Support Coordinators • Observations/Evaluations • ADM Daily Reports – first 10 days • Hiring Procedures Update Tina
Curriculum and Instruction • SIPs for 2007-08 • Staff Development sessions for Early Release Days: Aug. 21, Nov. 8, April 24 • C&I support to schools – Reading, Math, Science, Writing, Differentiation • Testing notebooks and one-on-one principal data analysis sessions • ESL Update – Upcoming Audit and school-based support Robin
Auxiliary Services • Maintenance Update o Summer Work Completed o Custodial Supplies Contract o Fire Marshal Inspections o Request Line • Transportation Update o Bus Routes o Pocket Cards for Drivers

o Flag in Rear Window

o Paperwork-2 weeks in advance

o No Idling Policy

o Bus Driver Cell Phone Legislation

Technology
Jim

•
NCWISE schedule and implementation strategies

•
Security and network change impacts

•
Assignments for school-based technicians

•
Changes in content filter block/allow

•
Update of school technology plans in concert with SIPs

•
K-8 lead technology teacher listing

•
Technology staff development needs grid

•
Teacher and staff collaboration and community web space

•
United Streaming Information

•
The district was featured in two publications recently: 1) The Middle School Invitational Tournament is featured on p. 7 of the 2007 edition of Chatham Living (show a copy). 2) Virginia Cross, a Meredith College graduate, is featured on p. 23 of the Summer, 2007 edition of Meredith Magazine (show a copy).

 

•
Va Cross Elementary School Update

o The school is Not Open to the Public due to safety concerns

o The property is still a construction zone and is closed to the public.

o OSHA requirements do not allow visitors before the school is officially released to the school system to open.

o Construction Update:

•
Completed: Playground mulch and fencing; seeding; paving and sidewalks; cabinetry in classroom; floor covering in 90% of building

•
Not Completed: cabinetry in media center; covered walkway; HVAC; highway expansion on Pony Farm Road and Alston Bridge Road (all easements have been signed and work has started)

•
We hope to have the building and road ready in approximately six weeks

 

 

•
Sept. 10th BOE Draft Agenda is provided for review.

At the conclusion of the Superintendent’s Report, Dr. Hart introduced the next agenda item, school

Fundraisers.
Virginia Cross Elementary School—Picture and Yearbook Sales Silk Hope Elementary School—PreK & 8th grade Promotion & Spring Sports Picture Sales Silk Hope Elementary School—Spring Pictures (October) Silk Hope Elementary School—Spring Pictures (February) Bonlee School—Yearbook Sales Bonlee School—Spring Pictures Bonlee School—Classroom Pictures Bonlee School—Magazine Sale Bonlee School—Fall Pictures North Chatham School—Sale of previously purchased combination locks for middle school lockers North Chatham School—Grade 4-8 Student Planners North Chatham School—School Pictures (Fall, Spring, Sports) North Chatham School—Basketball Ticket Sales Pittsboro Elementary School—Yearbook Sales Northwood High School—Snack Food Sales Northwood High School—Skills USA Carwash (September) Northwood High School—Skills USA Carwash (October)
There was some discussion among Board members regarding the fee for locks at NCS. It was determined that the fee was basically a rental fee for students who chose to have a lock for their locker and that most schools don’t allow students to bring in “non-issued” locks.
Another discussion ensued regarding the fee charged to NCS students in 4-8 grades for planners. The feeling was that other schools don’t charge for planners why does North Chatham want to ask for a fee? Also, if the school is requiring the planners for student use then the school should provide them to students. A parent in attendance stated that school PTA’s often provide planners to students who were not financially able to purchase a planner. It was suggested that a plan be developed that would provide planners free of charge for the 08-09 school year to the whole district by selling local business ads.
On a motion by Ms. Russell, seconded by Ms McManus, the Board voted 3-1 to approve the fundraiser requests as presented. Col. Totten abstained from voting.

Personnel Action
Dr. Hester reviewed the personnel actions discussed with the Board members earlier in closed session. She then presented the August 20, 2007 personnel actions to the Board for approval:
1 Probationary Teacher Recommendation 12 Instructional Recommendations 3 Retired/Rehire Recommendations 2 Instructional Position Upgrades 8 Non-Instructional Recommendations 4 Non-Instructional Position Upgrades 2 Athletic Recommendations 1 Miscellaneous Summer Recommendation 6 Substitute Recommendations 7 Resignations 1 Retirement
Probationary Teacher Recommendations:
Eaddy, Nina Chatham Middle School
Sanders, Phylisha Horton Middle School

Instructional Recommendations:
* Aguilar, Starling, VIF ESL Teacher BA in English Chatham Middle School
Int'l Univ of the Americas, San Jose, Costa Rica Replacing Nuvia Gonzalez 2 Years Experience September 17, 2007
* Cabler, Wendy 1st Grade Teacher
BA Elementary Education Virginia Cross Elementary School University of North Alabama August 21, 2007 0 Years Experience
* Freeman, Gwen EC Teacher Self Contained MA Education Siler City Elementary School BS Communications Replacing Stephanie Smith
Winthrop University, Wingate University, NY August 21, 2007 0 Years Experience
* Gonzalez, Maria, VIF Spanish Teacher BA in English Bonlee School
National University of Panama Replacing Leslie Nobles 5 Years Experience August 21, 2007
* Gregg, Corinna Kindergarten/Immersion Teacher
BA Elementary Education Siler City Elementary School Western Michigan University Replacing Amy Seitz 2 Years Experience August 21, 2007
Hunt, Kathryn Kindergarten Teacher
MA Elementary Education Virginia Cross Elementary School Adelphi University, NY August 21, 2007 27 Years Experience
Lustig, Meghan Guidance Counselor MA Counseling Northwood High School BA Sports Management Replacing Susan Marshall Mercy College, NY August 21, 2007 4 Years Experience
*
Novak, Jason Physical Education Teacher BA K-12 Physical Education Northwood High School UNC-Greensboro Replacing Julie Mardis 0 Years Experience August 21, 2007

*
Oliver, Helen 6th Grade Math/Science Teacher BA Elementary Education Chatham Middle School West Chester University Replacing Bonnie Russell

0 Years Experience August 21, 2007

*
Osorio, Leidy, VIF Spanish Teacher BA English/French North Chatham School University of Columbia Replacing Inez Perez 3 Years Experience August 21, 2007

Ramachandran, Bhuvana Media Coordinator (Full-time)
MA Library Science Bonlee School NCCU Replacing Jane Andrews 3 Years Experience Transferring from SAGE (Part-time)
August 21,2007

* Sutton, Blaine 4th Grade Teacher MA Administration/Reading Pittsboro Elementary School BA Elementary Ed/MG Math/LA Replacing Rebecca Stanford UNC-Pembroke August 21, 2007 24 Years Experience

Retired/Rehire Recommendation(s):
Rimmer, Carolyn (Retired/Rehire) CTE Family Consumer Science Chatham Central High School
August 21, 2007

Wainwright, Betty (Retired/Rehire) Secondary English Teacher Chatham Central High School
August 21, 2007

Walters, Janet (Retired/Rehire) ESL Teacher Chatham Central High School
August 21, 2007

Instructional Position Upgrade(s):
* Bonicci, Paul Secondary US History Teacher Northwood High School
Upgrade from part-time to full-time August 21, 2007

* Bruns, Cheryl 9-12 Media Specialist Northwood High School
Upgrade from part-time to full-time August 21, 2007

Non-Instructional Recommendations:
Brooks, Allen Custodian (Part-time)
Northwood High School
Replacing Travonia Covington August 27, 2007

* Duncan, Eric Teacher Assistant/Bus Driver North Chatham School Replacing Joi Smith August 21, 2007
* Edwards, Natashia Custodian (Temporary Part-time) Chatham Central High School Replacing Joshua Nobles August 21, 2007 to TBD
* Gordon, Lucinda EC Teacher Assistant North Chatham School Replacing Cynthia Perkins August 21, 2007
* Lingenfelter, Cynthia EC Bus Driver (Part-time) JS Waters School Replacing Charlotte White August 22, 2007
* Meyers, Lynn ISS Assistant Bonlee School Replacing Brenda Sartwell August 27, 2007
* Smith, Jane Child Nutrition Assistant Northwood High School Replacing Joetta Decker August 24, 2007
* White, Lindsey Secretary/Treasurer/SIMS Chatham Middle School Replacing Kim Johnson August 21, 2007

Non-Instructional Position Upgrade(s):
Griffin, Pat EC Bus Driver (Part-time) Horton Middle School
Upgrade from EC Bus Monitor August 22, 2007

* Marquez, Carmen Basic Needs Coordinator SAGE Academy Upgrade from part-time to full-time August 1, 2007
McSwain, Nancy Custodian/EC Bus Monitor Northwood High School Upgrade from Custodian Replacing Joyce Johnson August 24, 2007
* Tillman, BeBe Custodian/Bus Driver/Duty Free Assistant Bonlee School Upgrade from Custodian/Bus Driver Replacing Brenda Sartwell August 27, 2007
Athletic Recommendation(s): Binkley, Brian JS Waters School Assistant Softball Coach
* Brooks, Ronald Northwood High School Assistant Football Coach
Miscellaneous Summer Recommendation(s): Jordan, Adam SAGE Academy Custodian August 14, 2007 to August 20, 2007
Substitute Recommendation(s): Brown, Jennifer * Cason, Donald Hobbs, Louise Moran, Dean Loraine, Susan VanVickle, Jeanette
For Information Only:
Resignations/Retirements: * Burke, Jamie EC Teacher Assistant Bonlee School August 17, 2007
Covington, Travonia Custodian Northwood High School August 7, 2007
* Daly, Jon Family and Consumer Science Teacher Chatham Central High School August 31, 2007
Mardis, Julie Physical Education Teacher

Northwood High School
August 6, 2007

Miller, Ellen Family and Consumer Science Teacher Northwood High School
August 15, 2007

Priest, Christine Teacher Assistant/Bus Driver Bennett School
Resignation: September 28, 2007 Retirement: October 1, 2007

Scott, Charlotte EC Bus Driver JS Waters School
August 7, 2007

Stanford, Rebecca 4th Grade Teacher Pittsboro Elementary School
October 3, 2007

Transfer(s): * York, Linda Child Nutrition Assistant
Virginia Cross Elementary School Transferring from Siler City Elementary School
August 24, 2007

Sub-item XI.
a. Auxiliary Superintendent’s Job Description
The following job description has been posted on the CCS web site for receipt applications/resumes to fill Paul Joyce’s position when he retires in November:
“Category

Administrative Personnel
Position

Assistant Superintendent for Auxiliary Services

Date Posted
08/15/2007
Location

Administrative Office
Begin date

November 1, 2007

Salary

State Salary Schedule, plus Benefits and Local Supplement if applicable
Qualifications
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: Master's degree from an accredited university with a concentration in engineering, accounting, finance, personnel and/or general or school administration. Courses and experience in the following areas are desirable: Budgeting and Financial Management Concepts and Practices; Business and Personnel Management; Quantitative Methods; Administrative Practices; Computer Information Processing and System Management, Construction and Building Facilities. REPORTS TO: Superintendent JOB DESCRIPTION: The Assistant Superintendent for Auxiliary Services oversees all facilities and construction management, transportation, safety and other operational divisions of the school district as assigned. The Assistant Superintendent for Auxiliary Services serves in a line relationship with those persons and offices reporting directly to the position including the Directors of Maintenance and Transportation, and Construction Manager. The Assistant Superintendent for Auxiliary Services is a member of the Superintendent’s Cabinet. Positional authority is that which is assigned by the General Statutes or is delegated by the Superintendent. PERFORMANCE RESPONSIBILITIES: 1) Supervises the constituent departments and offices of the Auxiliary Services Division. 2) Directs the summative and formative evaluation of the division’s personnel in accordance with policy and procedure. 3) Serves as a liaison with the Board, other divisions of the school system, and other agencies, organizations on matters related to facilities, construction management, land acquisition, transportation, and maintenance. 4) Advises the Superintendent on operations matters of the district. 5) Keeps aware of emerging developments in administrative functions and school facilities and construction management through participation in workshops, conferences, seminars, and reading. 6) Completes and files the necessary reports for local, state and federal agencies. 7) Acts in the place of the Superintendent (designee) on matters as assigned. 8) Performs safety inspections required by OSHA and the State Department of Labor. 9) Directs long and short range division planning. 10) Develops and oversees division budgets. 11) Performs other related work or responsibilities as assigned by the Superintendent. KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES: 1) Thorough knowledge of local, state, and federal rules and regulations regarding facilities and construction management. 2) Considerable knowledge of the principles of supervision, organization and administration. 3) Considerable knowledge of the ethical guidelines applicable to the position as outlined by professional organizations and/or federal, state, and local laws, rules
and regulations.
4) Considerable knowledge of the formal bidding process and of local, state and
federal guideline as well as knowledge on school construction bonds.
5) General knowledge of the principles and practices of public relations work.
6) Skill in counseling and developing staff.
7) Ability to plan, develop, implement effective programs and systems.
8) Ability to accurately interpret state and federal regulations and school policies.
9) Ability to use common office machines and popular computer-driven word
processing, spreadsheet and file maintenance programs.
10) Ability to maintain complete and accurate records and statistics, and develop
meaningful reports from that information.
11) Ability to develop and administer budgets.
12) Ability to effectively express ideas orally and in writing.
13) Ability to make oral presentations before large or small groups of people.
14) Ability to exercise considerable tact and courtesy in frequent contact with the
public.
15) Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships as
necessitated by work assignments.
TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT: Full-time for twelve months
Salary based on state and local salary schedules
EVALUATION: Performance will be evaluated by the Superintendent in
accordance with the state policy on evaluation of employees.
DISCLAIMER: The preceding job description has been designed to indicate the
general nature and level of work performed by employees within this
classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive
inventory of all duties, responsibilities and qualifications required of employees
to this job

Information requested
A completed, current application must be on file. Applicants and current
employees who already have an application on file should submit a letter
indicating an interest and outlining the applicant's qualifications. Applications
will be screened and finalists will be interviewed.”

Col. Totten stated he was concerned with the job posting as being too highly qualified, which could lead to applicants with a high salary expectation. This current job description is more typical of a cabinet/directorship position than what he feels in needed, especially with the transfer of the vocational aspects (vocational is going to under secondary education). Col. Totten feels that a less demanding job description that keeps the different aspects of the current position within the individual departments (construction, transportation, maintenance, etc.) would create a supervisory position instead of a managerial position, which could demand a lower salary range. Col. Totten would also like to see the applicants interviewed by BOE members and have the position answer directly to the Board instead of to the Superintendent.
Chairman Clark thanked Col. Totten for his input and consulted the Board attorney for the feasibility of his ideas. Mr. Allen stated that it may be a violation of state statute for the Board to interview for and oversee the position. Chairman Clark stated he could see where that could create a conflict, especially in regards to the open meeting. Mr. Allen went on to say that the Board can’t hire someone the Superintendent doesn’t recommend; it might also conflict with the Superintendent’s employment contract.
Dr. Hester confirmed to which media outlets that the job description has been distributed: the Raleigh papers and the Greensboro papers as well as being posted on the CCS website.
Dr. Hart added that the research that Dr. Hester did to create the job description was extensive and used state-wide information. She was very particular to include that the right candidate should be able to work with many kinds of personalities and skill levels of workers in addition to having supervisory skills and a knowledge base of many areas.
Col. Totten stated he wasn’t concerned with the rest of North Carolina and that his emphasis was on Chatham County. He feels the qualifications are too extensive. Chairman Clark disagreed with Col. Totten and stated he believed the job description was all inclusive and “par for the course” for the position.
Chairman Clark thanked Col. Totten for his opinion and moved on to the next agenda item, Request to Declare the Prior Central Office and North Chatham School Telephone Systems as Surplus.

Request to Declare the Prior Central Office and North Chatham School Telephone Systems as Surplus
Jim Davis, CCS Chief Technology Officer, presented to the Board members for approval the declaration of the previous telephone systems that were being used at the Central Office and North Chatham School as a surplus. The phone systems at these sites have been replaced as funded and the old systems have no further use or resale value. The parts to these systems will be retained by the Technology department and used for replacement parts for systems at other locations within CCS. Mr. Davis also stated that all the handsets in the central officer were recycled and are being used with the new system.
On a motion by Col. Totten, seconded by Ms. Russell, the Board voted unanimously to approve the declaration of the central office and North Chatham School telephone systems as surplus.

Facility Needs Committee List of School Priorities Preliminary Report
This agenda item resulted in a fairly in-depth discussion among Board members. The following table depicts the committee’s and the BOE’s recommendations for dispersing the funds that may come available from the County Board of Commissioners if the total cost of the new high school results in a surplus of funds:
SCHOOL PRIORITIIES

Bennett School Bennett’s revised priority list: (8/16/07):
1.
Enclose the foyer area between the office complex and the lower building.

2.
Replace the existing windows in the Old Science Lab

 

BOE priorities for Bennett School:
1.
Enclose the foyer area between the office complex and the lower building.

2.
Replace the existing windows in the Old Science Lab

 

Bonlee School Bonlee’s revised priority list: (8/16/07): 1., 2., 3. Expand gym to include dressing rooms, a concession area and expanded seating.
Chatham Central CCHS’ revised priority list: (8/16/07): Mr. Stensland asked that his top five priorities remain in tact.
1.
Purchase of adjoining 8.8 acres to expand parking for the future.

2.
Renovate the weight room to include new shock absorbing flooring and safer equipment 12,500 for the floor, 35,000 for six lift stations and four clean and jerk stations.

3.
Renovate the science lab 120,000 (12 plumbed and gassed experiment tables, approved storage and safety equipment, lab equipment and chemicals)

4.
Expand the guidance office, convert custodial closet and old library to include a conference room, nurse’s station, effective front door monitoring by receptionist-adding/rearranging rooms to free up science lab.

5.
Renovate the auditorium-stage lighting.

 

BOE priorities for CCHS:
1.
Purchase of adjoining 8.8 acres to expand parking for the future/$100,000.

2.
Renovate the weight room to include new shock absorbing flooring and safer equipment/$12,500 for the floor, $35,000 for six lift stations and four clean and jerk stations.

3.
Renovate the science lab (12 plumbed and gassed experiment tables, approved storage and safety equipment, lab equipment and chemicals)/$120,000.

4.
Expand the guidance office, convert custodial closet and old library to include a conference room, nurse’s station, effective front door monitoring by receptionist-adding/rearranging rooms to free up science lab/$90,000.

5.
Renovate the auditorium-stage lighting/$15,000.

Chatham Middle CMS’ revised priority list: (8/16/07):
1.
Cover walkway form mobile units to the main building.

2.
Repair existing leaks in the covered walkway.

 

Horton Middle Horton Middle School’s revised priority list: (8/16/07):
1.
Add more coverage to handicapped access ramp into gym.

2.
Install outdoor audible PA system.

3.
Addition to walkway-cover to enlarge waiting area for car riders. Also addition of handicapped ramps covers on existing ramps.

4.
Repair sinks in the 700 & 800 halls. Maintenance will remove unused sinks.

 

BOE priorities for HMS:
1.
Add more coverage to handicapped access ramp into gym.

2.
Install outdoor audible PA system. Addition to walkway-cover to enlarge waiting area for car riders/$70,000.

 

JS Waters JS Waters’ revised priority list: (8/16/07):
School 1. New bathroom stalls in all bathrooms; replace wooden partitions and new fixtures. Hot water accessibility, if possible.
2.
Replace exterior doors.

3.
Install video security system: 4 cameras, 8 channels.

4.
Renovate reception area to include visual access to front door and/or a security buzzer system for visitor access.

5.
Replace outdoor canopy between the main building and multi purpose room. Repair sidewalk under canopy—water puddles directly in walking area.

 

BOE priorities for JSW:
1.
New bathroom stalls in all bathrooms; replace wooden partitions and new fixtures. Hot water accessibility, if possible.

2.
Replace exterior doors.

3.
Install video security system: 4 cameras, 8 channels. Renovate reception area to include visual access to front door and/or a security buzzer system for visitor access. Replace outdoor canopy between the main building and multi purpose room. Repair sidewalk under canopy—water puddles directly in walking area.

 

Jordan Matthews JMHS’ revised priority list: (8/16/07):
1.
Renovate the student restrooms and add hot water availability.

2.
Update Auditorium Lighting.

3.
Repair divots in gymnasium floor.

4.
Renovate/Update Science classroom to include the materials necessary to do labs (water, gas, cabinets and counters.

5.
Bring the building into compliance with rules from ADA.

 

BOE priorities for JMHS:
1.
Renovate the student restrooms and add hot water availability.

2.
Update Auditorium Lighting and flooring.

3.
Repair divots in gymnasium floor/$80,000.

4.
Renovate/Update 1 Science classroom to include the materials necessary to do labs (water, gas, cabinets and counters)/$40,000.

 

Moncure School Moncure School’s revised priority list: (8/16/07):
1.
Add cabinets to four additional classrooms.

2.
Install surveillance camera system with focus on the bus and staff parking lots and the playground areas. (recurring request)

3.
Install dedicated phone line for monitoring the fire alarm system.

4.
Replace 6 exterior doors on the gym.

 

BOE priorities for Moncure:
1.
Install surveillance camera system with focus on the bus and staff parking lots and the playground areas.

2.
Fire alarm system.

3.
Replace 6 exterior doors on the gym.

North Chatham North Chatham School’s revised priority list: (8/16/07): School 1. Add a restroom trailer for playground
2.
Add square footage to the cafeteria for dining and multipurpose room for storage.

3.
Cover walkway from trailer area to middle school entrance at the main building.

 

BOE priorities for NCS:
1.
Add a restroom trailer for playground.

2.
Add square footage to the cafeteria for dining and multipurpose room for storage.

3.
Cover walkway from trailer area to middle school entrance at the main building.

 

Northwood NHS’ revised priority list: (8/16/07):
1. Build a 26,000 square foot addition to add classroom space by re-organizing current class areas or by specific designation of the added space

BOE priorities for NHS:
1.
26,000 square foot addition/$4 million

2.
Update Auditorium lighting and flooring/$80,000.

3.
Renovate/Update 1 Science classroom to include the materials necessary to do labs (water, gas, cabinets, counters)/ $40,000.

 

Perry Harrison Perry Harrison School’s revised priority list: (8/16/07):
School 1. Replace carpet (some classrooms with tile) in several classrooms, the Guidance office and Media Center.— Classrooms 505, 507, 601, 6/8 workroom & media Center. Guidance office also.
2.
Install a sun shelter for the playground—deemed not necessary

3.
Install a walkway to the Multi Purpose Room.

4.
Install Security Access system at main entrance.

5.
Repair water drainage/erosion issue at entry to middle school wing.

 

BOE priorities for PWH:
1.
Install Security Access system at main entrance.

2.
Repair water drainage/erosion issue at entry to middle school wing.

 

Pittsboro Pittsboro Elementary School’s revised priority list: (8/16/07): Elementary 1. Resolve water problem at the front of the school—install School French drain and larger water downspouts
2. Install fence at back of playground.

BOE priorities for PES:
1.
Resolve water problem at the front of the school—install French drain and larger water downspouts.

2.
Install fence at back of playground.

 

SAGE Academy SAGE’s revised priority list: (8/16/07):
1.
Correct moisture/humidity issue and replace ceiling tiles.

2.
Add security lighting to building.

3.
Repair deteriorating concrete on East side of building.

 

BOE priorities for SAGE:
1.
Correct moisture/humidity issue and replace ceiling tiles.

2.
Add security lighting to building.

3.
Repair deteriorating concrete on East side of building.

Siler City SCE’s revised priority list: (8/16/07):
Elementary 1. Enclose walkways, possibly with brick lattice work.

2.
Fence the back edge of the playground.

3.
Replace bathrooms (stalls) and fixtures in red, blue and green pods.

 

BOE priorities for SCE:
1.
Enclose walkways, possibly with brick lattice work or wall.

2.
Fence the back edge of the playground.

3.
Replace bathrooms (stalls) and fixtures in red, blue and green pods.

 

Silk Hope SHS’ revised priority list: (8/16/07):
School 1. Expand current irrigation system.
2.
Renovate current gymnasium.

3.
Return mobile units for use as additional instructional space.

4.
Install storage building.

 

BOE priorities for SHS:
1. Install storage building.

At different points during the members’ discussion Ms. Russell shared she felt it would be a good idea to include estimated costs of these items, even if it were only a rough idea of the cost. Col. Totten shared that the Commissioners, Mr. Lucier in particular, are (is) mainly interested in the priorities of the BOE not necessarily the cost; Ms. Russell again stated she would prefer to include at least an idea of what the items on the list may cost because she believes all the Commissioners are looking for a plan with a monetary value attached. The discussion ended with the Board members agreeing upon the above list to submit to the Board of Commissioners at the September 17, 2007 evening meeting.
At approximately 10:30 p.m. Chairman Clark called for a brief recess of the meeting since the Facility Needs discussion was quite lengthy. The break lasted about 10 minutes and the Board meeting resumed at
10:40 p.m.
The next agenda item, Second Reading: Policy 6121: Student Mental and Emotional Health, was presented to the Board for approval. Board members had had the policy since July to review and since there were no questions or comments,
On a motion by Ms. Russell, seconded by Col. Totten, the Board voted unanimously to approve Policy 6121: Student Mental an Emotional Health.
The next agenda item, Second Reading: Policy Series 1000: Governing Principles, was passed as amended per the first reading’s suggestions and changes.
On a motion by Ms. Russell, seconded by Ms. Duncan, the Board voted unanimously to approve Policy Series 1000 as amended during the first reading.
Second Reading: Policy Series 2000: Board Operations saw some additional discussion after the changes discussed at the first reading were reviewed. There were minor changes to the following policies: #2000 regarding a Board self evaluation and #2123 which reference the amount of training and guidance that newly elected board members receive.
There was discussion among Board members about how the Board members are elected, Policy 2110: electing members by district candidates or at large, or a combination of both. Several Board members feel it is easier for candidates to run by district since they live in the district in which they would campaign and would ultimately be elected. The discussion also included thoughts about staying with five Board members (all in district) or moving up to seven members (5 in district, 2 at large). This discussion was tabled and when it resumes the Board members will also discuss the possibility of changing the date of installation of new members, which must be brought before, and approved by, legislators.
The next policy discussed was 2123 in reference to the training and guidance newly elected Board members receive. Ms. Duncan researched other counties that provide more training for new members, and she will provide examples of verbiage from those counties to Dr. Hart so the CCS policy can be adapted accordingly.
Col. Totten stated he liked how the new staff members were introduced to the Board. Col. Totten would also like to see the display of “succession of rank” that clearly states who is responsible in case(s) of emergency or absence where the Superintendent would be unable to perform the job requirements for which he/she is responsible (see statute 115C-275).
Dr. Hart shared that the guidelines for that particular issue are currently being reviewed and revised by the state Board committee.
Dr. Hart also confirmed the removal of the standing committee information in policy 2230; the CCS Board is small enough that standing committees are not needed.
On a motion by Ms. Duncan, seconded by Col. Totten, the Board voted unanimously to approve Policy Series 2000 as amended in reference to Policies 2000 and 2123.
Adjournment:
With no further business, on a motion by Ms. McManus, seconded by Ms. Duncan, the Board voted
unanimously to adjourn at 11:06 p.m.
Secretary, Chatham County Schools Board of Education