Green Mountain Union High School
Green Mountain Union High School Board Meeting
Thursday, June 13, 2013, 6:00 p.m.
Green Mountain Union High School - Library
Unapproved Minutes
Present:
Board: Alison DesLauriers, Mike Leonard, Dr. Bont, Kelley Kehoe, Arne Jonynas
Administration: Linda S. Waite-Superintendent, Tom Ferenc-Principal, Mike Ripley-Associate Principal
Public: SAPA-TV, Kim Leonard, Tom Lance of Casella Waste Management, Kelly Brennan, Theresa DeLorenzo, Dr. Rice, Jessica and Levi Clay
Call to Order
Alison called the meeting to order at 6:06
Approval of Minutes of May 9, 2013 Meeting
Mike made note that he was omitted from the last minutes. Alison asked that we table these minutes until the meeting in July.
Europe Trip Presentation
Kelly Brennan gave a presentation and shared a slide show about the trip to Europe with 5 students back in April. They traveled from Paris to London and fundraised to make the trip possible.
Request for Overnight Field Trip
Dr. Rice and Theresa DeLorenzo gave a presentation on a proposed trip to Costa Rica in April of 2014. This is a science based trip. Dr. Bont made a motion to approve the Spring 2014 Costa Rica trip as presented. Motion approved.
Personnel
Linda has offered or will offer contracts to the following non-licensed staff. Each member will receive a 2.5% increase. Brendan McNamara is under a two-year contract with an increase negotiated for the second year of that contract. He is the Director of Facilities and Transportation. Kelly Goodrich - Administrative Receptionist. Eric Anderson - Administrative Assistant to the Principal, and stipened position as Athletic Director. Leslie Reed for 1 year as Guidance Secretary. Jim Tornquist as the Network Supervisor and Technician. Licensed positions include: Pam O'Neil - Director of Guidance; Mike Ripley, Assistant Principal; Jessica Van Rosenberg, Mental Health Clinician. Dr. Bont made a motion to hire the above staff. Motion approved.
One other position that is non-licensed is the school to work coordinator to be funded by Medicaid funds. The Board needs to approve this position to be paid with Medicaid funds. John Donarum currently holds this position and works through the Guidance Department with the upper classman to obtain jobs, internships, or job shadowing depending on their career track. This year John worked with 18 students. Medicaid funding opens this up to all students and they can get credit. The salary for this position is $30,000. Dr. Bont made a motion to authorize expenditure of Medicaid funds to pay for the salary of John Donarum in the amount of $30,000. Motion seconded by Mike. Motion approved.
Retirement Request
Linda received a request from Mrs. Mary-lynn Wright, a high school math teacher, to retire at the end of the 2012/2013 school year. She submitted the request late as it was a difficult decision. This is a release from contract & request to retire. Dr. Bont made a motion to release Mary-lynn Wright from her contract and accept her retirement. Motion approved.
Waste Disposal Bid Award
Tom Ferenc requested that this be put aside and discussed at a later date. Tom Lance from Casella Waste Management explained the Zero Sort Waste Program. Tom noted that Chester-Andover Elementary School has been using their services for the past 6 months. Casella does business with the Ludlow schools as well as many other local businesses in the area. The pricing is good for 24 months.
Bleachers Bid Award
Arne recommends to award the bid to Robert H. Lord Company for the amount of $48,849.00. There are some added costs that are not included in that price. There is an additional $4,500 if the company removes the existing bleachers. There is an electrical component to the installation that is an additional cost. Arne is asking that the amount not exceed $60,000. The cost will be less if some of the work is done ourselves. The new bleachers will have all self storage rails and will be up to code regarding safety. Installation of two banks of bleachers with a capacity of 500. Dr. Bont made a motion to approve the use of $60,000 from the Capital Improvement Fund to replace bleachers in the gym. Seconded by Kelley Kehoe. Motion approved.
Hot Water Boiler Bid Award
Arne explained what sort of system we currently have and what it will be replaced with. Arne recommends ARC Mechanical for the amount of $20,650.00. Further explanation of what the bid includes. Amount not to exceed $22,000 to cover incidental costs associated with the gas conversion. Kelley Kehoe made a motion to approve the use of an amount not to exceed $22,000 from the Capital Improvement Fund to replace the hot water boiler. Motion approved.
Alison noted that Chris Adams, Business Manager, is out on medical leave and is doing well. We expect to be in the black at the end of this year but will know more when the books close at the end of June.
Policy Discussion
Alison and Linda explained that the Transition Board did approve a slate of policies for the Two Rivers Board that will be presented for approval at the July meeting.
Student Representative Report
Katie McNally reported that finals are coming up. The girls Varsity Softball Team went to the playoffs and were knocked out in the second round. Sixth Grade move up day took place last week. NHS representatives gave tours around the school to those students. The Senior class trip went really well. The board thanks Katie for her time the last two years and wish her well at Berkley next year.
Principal Report
Tom shared that the kids are focused and finals will take place next week. Tuesday night was the Spring Sports Banquet and was well attended. The State of the District was last night. Cavendish Town Elementary School's graduation is on Friday and Chester-Andover Elementary School's on Monday. Tom handed out the newsletter, the voice of the kids. Two middle school students were honored at the NELMS dinner on June 3rd at Norwich University. They recognized Ava Hill (7th grade) and Mack Walton (8th grade). Last week a program on empathy and civility was presented to students. Next year they will be proactive in bringing in more programming like this. Tom would like to invite a board member to be a part of the hiring committee. Tom has a request from Alan Garvin, the outdoor leadership
teacher, asking to take a group of students hiking on the Long Trail from June 28th through July 3rd. Kelly Kehoe made a motion to approve the overnight request for Alan Garvin to take a group of students on the Long Trail. Motion approved.
Tom shared a letter from the American Legion naming Ashley Carafiello as the American Legion Educator of the Year. We congratulate Ashley on her accomplishments. Tom also recognized Katie McNally for her service to the school and board.
Superintendent Report
Linda gave an update on the teachers contract. Agreement was reached earlier and has been sent to our attorney and he is reviewing the salary portion of those contracts. Anticipate ratification soon. Support staff contract is in the same stage, did receive salary schedules but believes they were incorrect. Constructed a new salary schedule based on the 2011/2012 salaries and both Norm Bartlett and Dennis Wells discussing those. Anticipate ratification shortly.
Co-curricular Reports
Linda has received and approved stipends for Brendan McNamara - JV Baseball, Eric Anderson - Varsity Baseball, Terry Farrrell - Varsity Softball, Chris LeFevre - Varsity Track, Theresa Buskey - MS Softball, Keith Hill and Kelly Goodrich Class Advisors for the Class of 2014. Fritz Wendtlandt - Band Director, Mike LeClair - JV Softball. Linda thanks them all on behalf of our students.
Jake Arace, CAES Board Member, gave a presentation about the Farm to School Program. CAES board has formed a committee to embark in this program and looking to see if GM is interested.
Committee Reports
Final preparations in getting the new SU offices ready and make the move to the Fletcher Farm Building in Proctorsville.
Public Comment
Jessica Clay who lives in Windham is requesting her son Levi come to GM tuition free for middle school and then be school choice for high school. Alison advised that the Board can’t act on this tonight. The administration can review and come back with a recommendation at the July meeting.
Executive Session
Mike made a motion to go into executive session at 7:50 to discuss personnel. Motion approved. The board came out of executive session at 8:39 p.m.
Adjournment
Arne made a motion to adjourn. Meeting adjourned at 8:40 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Kim Leonard
Recording Secretary
_______________________________________________________________________________
Green Mountain Union High School
Green Mountain Union High School Board Meeting
Thursday, May 9, 2013, 6:00 p.m.
Green Mountain Union High School – Library
*Amended
Unapproved Minutes
Present:
Board: Alison DesLauriers-Chair, Arne Jonynas-Vice chair, Dr. Bont, Hank Mauti, Stuart Lindberg, Kelley Kehoe and Emily Guerra
Administration: Linda S. Waite-Superintendent, Tom Ferenc-Principal
Public: SAPA-TV, Virginia Walsh Mack,
Call to Order
Alison called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.
Executive Session – (Student Disciplinary Matters)
Made a motion to go into executive session to discuss student disciplinary matters and to invite the principal and superintendent. Motion approved.
Approval of Minutes of April 11, 2013 – (Action Requested)
Kelley made a motion to approve the minutes of April 11, 2013 as presented. Motion approved.
Personnel
Hiring
Linda recommends hiring Nancy Martin to replace Sheila McDonald who is retiring. Nancy has been at CAES for 7 years and at FBUS for 1 year. She has 33 years of experience. Tom reported they had 7 members on the hiring committee. He said Nancy’s experience and first love in Rhode Island was to work with students to prepare them for the work force. Dr. Bont made a motion to hire Nancy Martin as the Special Educator for the 2013-2014 school year with a salary placement according to the master agreement. Motion approved.
Student Representative Report
Emily reported the girls won their last softball game and the boys won their last baseball games. The Europe trip went well and the NYC trip went well. Katy shared her college plans with the board. The board congratulated Emily.
Principal Report
Presentation on AP Modern History Europe Trip
Tom said this presentation will be on the next agenda.
GMUHS Wall of Honor Program
This company supports programs that honor school alumni and GM has adopted the program. Information regarding the program and the forms to nominate someone is on the GM website. He said he is very excited about the program. There will be a committee to review nomination for the wall. This will be for Alumni from Chester High School and Green Mountain Union High School.
Superintendent Report
Alison asked to reconsider the motion regarding the sale of the pickup to include in conjuction with school policy. Dr. Bont made a motion to support the sale fo the pickup truck in conjunction with school policy. Motion approved.
The negotiating team will meet regarding the post support staff agreement. Legislative Reports: The small schools grant was discussed. The SU merger now has three small schools. CTES would be affected. Alison said these are efforts to reduce education spending. Stuart said everyone should read the VSBA legislative updates. Linda gave the board a copy of the end of year schedule. Policy needs to be discussed at the next board meeting.
Co-curricular Reports
Linda received reports from Fritz Wendlandt, Musical Director and Cindi Austin, Music Director for the play Chicago. She thanked them for their support.
Committee Reports
Facilities
School Safety Update
Alison introduced Brendan McNamara, GMUHS Facilities and Grounds Director to the board. Brendan gave the board an overview of the efforts being made to keep the school safe. There have been changes made. At 8:00 a.m. all of the doors into the school are locked except for the art gallery door. The art gallery door is the primary entrance for the public. At 2:40 p.m. the gym door lobby is open. At 4:00 p.m. the art gallery door is locked and the gate is pulled across depending on the season. Sometimes it doesn’t close until 5 or 6 p.m. Four new cameras have been added. He is installing a buzzer intercom system which will be the primary entrance. Three additional cameras will be installed. They have approximately 170 doors with handles that will need to be replaced;
each lock is $300.00. The total cost to replace the handles will be $2,600.00. Brendan thanked the board for their support. Alison said there are funds in the capitol improvement fund that could be used to replace the locks since this is a safety issue. Discussion ensued. Hank said the classroom locks should be a priority. The board discussed the phones in each classroom. The board thanked Brendan for his work.
Arne requested approval to sell the old pickup. Dr. Bont made a motion to support the sale of the pickup for $300.00. Motion approved.
Policies
WSWSU/Two Rivers S.U. Transition Board
Governance will be discussed as well as the HR personnel manual for non union employees.
Public Comment
None
Executive Session
Kelley made a motion to go into executive session to discuss contract negotiations and to invite the principal and superintendent. Motion approved.
Other Business
Adjournment
Respectfully submitted,
Virginia M. Walsh Mack
Recording Secretary
_______________________________________________________________________________
Green Mountain Union High School
Green Mountain Union High School Meeting
Thursday, April 11, 2013, 6:00 p.m.
Green Mountain Union High School – Library
Unapproved Minutes
Present:
Board: Alison DesLauriers, Arne Jonynas, Dr. Bont, Hank Mauti, Stuart Lindberg, Kelly Kehoe, Mike Leonard
Administration: Linda S. Waite-Superintendent, Tom Ferenc-Principal, Mike Ripley-Associate Principal, Pam O’Neil-Director of Guidance, Christine Simmonds-School Nurse, Lauren Baker
Public: SAPA-TV, Kim Leonard, Nick and Robin Trask, Katie McNally- Student Representative
Call to Order
Alison called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.
Alison welcomed Mike Leonard to the board. He is replacing Geralyn Donahue from Chester.
Alison announced that Katie McNally was present as student representative and asked if she would like to share where she will be attending school next year. Katie announced that she will be attending Berkley College.
Approval of Minutes of March 14, 2013 Arne made the motion to approve the minutes of March 14, 2013 as written. Motion approved.
Health Presentation
Christine Simmonds-School Nurse gave a presentation. She sees approximately 400 students per month, lately more, for several issues. Case manages 504 plans for students with health issues. Also takes care of staff, providing flu clinics, health education, and more. Manages the health page on the website – shared specific links on the page. All of the schools in the District are using the SNAP computer program. This program tracks illnesses, visits to the nurse’s office, and makes documentation easier and more effective.
GMUHS Schedule Options
Pam O’Neil gave a presentation about the Program of Studies which was handed out. Students receive this packet in March. There is a newsletter that each grade level receives about graduation requirements, opportunities, etc. This is meant to be an easy resource for families. GM also belongs to the River Valley Technical Center – program of studies was handed out and classes described. Half-day programs for our students and are transported both morning and afternoon.
VTVLC – Vermont Virtual Learning Cooperative – Grades 9-12 Course offerings were handed out. This is an on-line learning organization for the state of Vermont. All classes are taught by certified teachers. Julie Walton is currently teaching a class through this program.
Dartmouth College – This is a flexible pathways plan for students in the 12th Grade. Classes are offered at no cost for high school students who have exhausted all their course options at their local high school.
Dual Enrollment – Students can take classes at CCV while attending GM. These classes count as high school credits and some colleges will accept them as college credits if beyond the 28 credits required to graduate. We do not have a high number of students from GM that enter this program.
Scheduling
Pam spoke about the different scenarios that the Scheduling Committee is currently looking at. The Committee is meeting every Tuesday and they are looking at priorities, resources, constraints, etc. in making the schedule for the next year. Various types of schedules were passed out to the Board. Pam explained the current schedule, the AB schedule, and the multi-split block schedule. The committee is looking at each of these scenarios to see what would work best.
Graduation Rate
Alison began the discussion with a description of the various educational rates that are reported. Cohort graduation rate was described in detail by Pam O’Neil. There are also 5 & 6 year cohort graduation rates.
Student Representative Report
Katie McNally announced that softball, baseball, and track are in full swing. The softball team pitched a no hitter winner. Two new nominees for Student Representative are Rosie McNamara and Lilith Gragg. The Middle School play is on the 16th & 17th of May, it is a 30 minute short skit. Spirit Week was held recently, the Junior Class won and was awarded $50.00.
Principal Report
Tom added to Pam’s reporting that we also have students that finish high school here in 3 years as well. We are getting ready for spring. The Middle School trip to Washington is leaving Friday morning. The AP Modern Euro class is also leaving on a trip to Europe. Tom attends Rotary meetings and said that Bill Dakin will be coming in to speak to students about going out for an exchange. One student this year went to France for the first trimester and another is in Belgium for the entire year. The school website is being revamped to improve communication and will be up and running soon. Tom shared the Journalism Class publication. Student Government will be doing a Survey again this Spring.
Superintendent Report
Linda had a single copy of the VT School Board Legislative Report – this can be obtained on-line, and shared some of the highlights of the report. Linda was just notified of a special event for board chairs at Lake Morey on May 22nd. This is preceding the regularly scheduled conference for superintendents and special educators. Code of conducts were passed out at the last meeting, turn those in if you haven’t already done so.
Support staff agreement and teachers’ contract – both arrived at a tentative agreement with further details to follow.
Committee Reports
Facilities: Arne spoke about the tree cutting project that has been going on for about a year. He was told it will be finished this coming week. There is a lot less going on with the roof with the trees removed. Arne hopes that by this Summer the domestic hot water changeover will be installed. They are putting it out for bid. The gymnasium bleachers are in need of being replaced. They are past the point of cost effective repair. Hopefully this can also get done during the summer.
Policies: Alison announced that we do need to fill some seats on committees and the policy committee is one of them. She will send out an e-mail so members can choose a committee to be on. The need is for one on policies, negotiations, facilities, and transportation. Let Alison know if you are interested in any of the above. TRSU board needs an additional member from our board. Alison explained the transition requirements for the TRSU board.
WSWSU/Two Rivers SU Transition Board
Alison explained some of the work that is being done with the transition of the supervisory union.
VSAC survey – Pam announced that VSAC is not doing this survey this year but will resume next year. This is not state required but we ask that students here take this. This survey addresses a lot of components to consider.
Public Comments
Katie McNally spoke about the senior class trip. The cost has been lowered from $250.00 to under $125.00 per student. They are expecting deposits of $45.00 within the next two weeks. They will be traveling to Providence, Rhode Island and then to Cape Cod instead of Mystic, Connecticut. They are going to the zoo, lunch, dinner, a night at a hotel and then to Cape Cod the next day. They are asking for approval due to the change in destinations. Dr. Bont made motion to approve the senior class trip as presented. Arne seconded motion. Motion approved.
Executive Session
Arne made a motion to go into Executive Session at 7:40 p.m. Motion seconded by Dr. Bont. The principal and superintendent were invited. Motion approved. The board came out of executive session at 8:20 p.m. Arne made a motion to approve settlement agreement with Deb Franks as presented with stipulations and clarifications. Stuart seconded the motion.
Other Business
None
Stuart Lindberg said that Pam O’Neil did a wonderful presentation on the scheduling.
Adjournment
Kelly made a motion to adjourn. Dr. Bont seconded the motion. Meeting adjourned at 8:23 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Kim Leonard
Recording Secretary
_______________________________________________________________________________
Green Mountain Union High School
Green Mountain Union High School Meeting
Thursday, March 14, 2013, 6:00 p.m.
Green Mountain Union High School – Library
Unapproved Minutes
Present:
Board: Alison DesLauriers, Arne Jonynas, Dr. Bont, Hank Mauti, Stuart Lindberg, and Kelly Kehoe
Administration: Linda S. Waite-Superintendent, Tom Ferenc-Principal, Mike Ripley-Associate Principal and Pam O’Neil-Director of Guidance
Public: SAPA-TV, Virginia Walsh Mack, Jeanie Phillips, Rick Cloud-Chester Chief of Police, Nick Trask and Robin Trask
Call to Order
Linda called the meeting to order at 6:04 p.m.
Reorganization
Elect Board Chair
Linda asked for nominations for board chair. Arne made a motion to nominate Alison DesLauriers. Motion approved.
Alison asked the board to introduce themselves.
Elect Board Vice Chair
Alison asked the board for nominations for vice chair. Alison made a motion to nominate Arne as vice chair. Motion approved.
Elect Board Clerk
Alison explained the duties of the clerk.
Alison nominated Kelly as board clerk. Motion approved.
Elect Supervisory Union Board Representatives
Arne made a motion to elect Alison and Hank as the SU representatives for WSWSU and TRSU. Motion approved. The board has three votes on the TRSU board.
Set GMUHS Regular Board Meeting Date and Time
Dr. Bont made a motion to set the regular board meetings for GMUHS on the second Thursday of the month at 6:00 p.m. Motion approved.
Approval of Minutes of January 10th, January 30th, February 7th, February 14th, & February 26, 2013
Kelly made a motion to approve the minutes of January 10, January 30, February 7, February 14, and February 26, 2013 as presented. Motion approved.
Reduction In Force
Alison explained the board is required to act on reductions in force. The recommendation is to reduce the Middle School Computer Teacher by .40 FTE. Arne made a motion to reduce the middle school computer teacher position by .40 FTE. Motion approved.
GMUHS Schedule Options to Enhance Student Outcomes
Tom discussed “summer slide”; when students lose what they learn over the summer. He said this is a socio-economical issue. He has been working with Pam to make improvements. They are looking at different models to improve contact with curriculum.
Pam said they look at resources and the time of day. They have asked for student, parent and teacher input. They look at priorities. They are exploring what is best for the students. The goal is to increase exposure. Tom said the balance is difficult. They want the most students to have the most opportunity. GMUHS requires 28 credits to graduate.
Discussion ensued regarding course selection and preparedness for college and the A.P. classes offered. Dr. Bont suggests that students be tracked in the first year of college to document the dropout rate. The legislature is looking at changing the graduation requirements.
Alison thanked the communities for supporting the school.
Student Representative Report
The play, “Chicago”, will be presented on March 28th, 29th and 30th.
The sports banquet was held on Tuesday evening.
Principal Report
Tom thanked the community for their support.
Overnight Baseball Field Trip Approval
Tom is requesting the board approve the Baseball team’s overnight trip to Sheffield, MA on March 29th and 30th. Arne made a motion to approve the overnight baseball trip as presented. There is a $10.00 cost per student. Motion approved.
Tom is requesting the board approve the Sociology field trip to NYC. May 1-3. There are 15 students and 5 staff chaperones. Dr. Bont made a motion to approve the Sociology field trip to NYC as presented. This is field based research. The students collect a lot of data. The students are reminded of the norms and expectations. Motion approved.
LLC Presentation
Jeanie Phillips, Library Media Specialist, gave a presentation on the Library Learning Commons. Jeanie gave the board a copy of her monthly LLC report. She talked about how the spaces are used for working on projects, having classes, computer use, the cyber café where students can eat, and quiet space for reading with movable furniture. She talked about the standards for the 21st Century Learner. Jeanie collaborates with teachers for short and long periods. She also has information posted on the GMUHS web page. The students helped write a grant that allows authors to come and speak to the students. Tom thanked Jeanie for her presentation.
Tom said students took the profits from the school store to start a grant. Mrs. Carafiello won Middle School Teacher of the Year for district one. Jack Carroll and Ashley Carafiello participated with students in the junior chef’s competition. Tom took students to a Southwest leadership conference.
Spring Coaches
Alison read the spring coaches (attached).
Tom introduced Chester Police Chief Cloud. The Chief said the mission is a safe environment for our students. Chief Cloud wanted it clarified that an incident that a board member reported allegedly took place with an officer in January did not happen. The cameras were reviewed and the individuals involved were interviewed. The board thanked Chief Cloud for coming.
Superintendent Report
Linda presented Alison DesLauriers with a certificate for her 20 years of service as a board member.
The winter sports reports have been received.
Linda gave the board copies of the VT code of ethics for school board members. She asked the board to sign this and return it to her.
The VSBA is having a training for board members on March 18th at 5:00 p.m. at GMUHS.
Linda thanked the communities for their support of the schools.
The teachers’ union and the boards have tentatively reached a decision regarding the collective bargaining agreement.
Committee Reports
Alison talked about the different board committees for the new board members.
Facilities
Arne reported the facilities committee is considering a new system for domestic hot water. They are looking at different options.
Policies
F12.1 Transportation Of Students To/From River Valley Technical Center Insurance Policy Findings: This is handled differently by each school that attends RVTC. GMUHS only allows students to drive themselves to the tech center. The schools insurance is limited to covering students transported by bus. It is the administrations understanding that our insurance does not cover other students they transport.
WSWSU/Two Rivers S.U. Transition Board
The board will meet next Thursday at 6:30 p.m. at Ludlow Elementary School.
Public Comment
None
Executive Session
Arne made a motion to go into executive session at 7:42 p.m. to discuss personnel. The principal and superintendent were invited. Motion approved. The board came out of executive session at 8:35 p.m. No action taken.
Other Business
None
Adjournment
Kelly made a motion to adjourn. Meeting adjourned at 8:36 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Virginia M. Walsh Mack
Recording Secretary
_______________________________________________________________________________
Green Mountain Union High School
Green Mountain Union High School Board Meeting
Tuesday, February 26, 2013
Immediately Following the GMUHS Annual & Public Informational Meeting
Green Mountain Union High School – Library
*Special Board Meeting
Unapproved Minutes
Present:
Board: Alison DesLauriers-Chair, Mark Bodin, Arne Jonynas, Ginger Roper, Dr. Bont and Sharon Huntley
Administration: Linda S. Waite-Superintendent, Thomas Ferenc-Principal and Chris Adams-Business Manager
Public: None
Call to Order
Alison called the meeting to order at 8:10 p.m.
Executive Session
Alison made a motion to go into executive session at 8:11 to discuss personnel
and to invite the superintendent. Motion approved.
The board came out of executive session at 8:40 p.m.
No Action taken.
Adjournment
Mark made a motion to adjourn. The meeting adjourned at 8:41 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Linda S. Waite
WSWSU Superintendent _____________________________________________________________________
Green Mountain Union High School
Green Mountain Union High School Board Meeting
Thursday, February 14, 2013, 6:00 p.m.
Green Mountain Union High School – Library
*Special Board Meeting
Unapproved Minutes
Present:
Board: Alison DesLauriers-Chair, Mark Bodin, Geralyn Donohue, Arne Jonynas, Ginger Roper and Sharon Huntley
Administration: Linda S. Waite-Superintendent and Thomas Ferenc-Principal
Public: Christa Valente, Susan Renard, Patricia Gutierrez and Karen Surma
Call to Order
Alison called the meeting to order at 6:02 p.m.
Executive Session
Alison made a motion to go into executive session at 6:03 to discuss personnel
and to invite the superintendent. Motion approved.
The board came out of executive session at 7:15 p.m.
No Action taken.
Adjournment
Mark made a motion to adjourn. The meeting adjourned at 7:16 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Linda S. Waite
WSWSU Superintendent
_______________________________________________________________________________
Green Mountain Union High School
Green Mountain Union High School Special Board Meeting
Thursday, February 7, 2013, 6:00 p.m.
Green Mountain Union High School – Library
*Special Board Meeting
Unapproved Minutes
Present:
Board: Alison DesLauriers-Chair, Arne Jonynas-Vice Chair, Geralyn Donohue, Dr. Bont, Mark Bodin and Katie McNally
Administration: Linda S. Waite-Superintendent and Tom Ferenc-Principal
Public: Virginia Walsh Mack and Jessica Ralston.
Call to Order
Alison called the meeting to order at 6:01 p.m.
Approval of Amended Annual Meeting Warnings
Mark made a motion to approve the amended 2013-2014 budget in the amount of $5,808,609.00 to exclude the RVTC budget. Motion approved.
Warning of Annual Meeting
Warning of Public Information Hearing
Warning to Vote by Australian Ballot
The date for the annual meeting needs to be changed to Tuesday February 26, 2013. Geralyn made a motion to change the annual and public meetings to Tuesday, February 26, 2013. Motion approved.
Other Business
Katie and Jessica Ralston presented a proposal for a senior trip Providence RI. The cost would be $245.00 which includes the coach bus, chaperones, meals, hotel and museums. Dr. Bont made a motion to approve the senior class trip to Providence RI and Mystic CT as presented. Motion approved.
Adjournment
Arne made a motion to adjourn. Meeting adjourned at 6:20 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Virginia M. Walsh Mack
Recording Secretary
_______________________________________________________________________________
Green Mountain Union High School
Green Mountain Union High School Special Board Meeting
Wednesday, January 30, 2013, 6:00 p.m.
Green Mountain Union High School – Library
Unapproved Minutes
Present:
Board: Alison DesLauriers-Chair, Arne Jonynas-Vice Chair, Geralyn Donohue, Dr. Bont, Mark Bodin, Ginger Roper and Katie McNally
Administration: Linda S. Waite-Superintendent, Tom Ferenc-Principal
Public: None
Call to Order
Alison called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.
School Choice
See attachments. Dr. Bont made a motion to set the school choice at 10 students out and 20 students in. Discussion ensued. Dr. Bont withdrew his motion. Mark made a motion to set the school choice at 20 students out and 20 students in. Motion approved.
Executive Session
Geralyn made a motion to go into executive session at 6:45 p.m. The administrators were invited. The board came out of executive session at 7:46 p.m. No action taken.
Other Business
None
Adjournment
Sharon made a motion to adjourn. Meeting adjourned at 7:47 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Virginia M. Walsh Mack
Recording Secretary
_______________________________________________________________________________
Green Mountain Union High School
Green Mountain Union High School Meeting
Thursday, January 10, 2013, 6:00 p.m.
Green Mountain Union High School – Library
Unapproved Minutes
Present:
Board: Alison DesLauriers-Chair, Arne Jonynas-Vice Chair, Geralyn Donohue, Dr. Bont, Mark Bodin, Ginger Roper and Katie McNally
Administration: Linda S. Waite-Superintendent, Tom Ferenc-Principal, Chris Adams-Business Manager, and Mike Ripley-Assoc Principal
Public: SAPA-TV, Virginia Walsh Mack, Sarah Yake, Gary Baker, Mike Leonard, Sarah Yake and Amy Howlett
Call to Order
Alison called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.
Approval of Minutes of November 29th & December 13, 2012
Mark made a motion to approve the minutes of November 29th and December 13, 2012 as presented. Correction: 12/13/12 minutes: The board will look into the insurance policy regarding transporting of students. Motion approved as amended.
Finance
Budget Approval
The budget committee and the finance committee met and made some changes to the budget. Alison went over the changes/corrections. Dr. Bont made a motion to approve the Green Mountain Union High School 2013-2014 budget in the amount of $6,017,000,667.00. Discussion: Tom went over the changes to the budget (Draft 7 attached). The increase in the budget is 4.15%. Geralyn asked about the possibility of applying for grants for some of the programs that have been reduced. Tom said he will look into it. Alison talked about the overall changes in the budget and the changes due to the assessment. Motion approved.
Announced Tuition Rate
Chris recommended the tuition be increased to $13,000.00. Mark made a motion to set the tuition rate at $13,000.00. Chris said he feels this is a conservative number. Motion approved.
Approval of Warnings
Warning of Annual Meeting
The meeting will take place on Thursday February 28, 2013 at 7:00. p.m.
Warning of Public Information Hearing
Immediately following the annual meeting on February 28th.
Warning to Vote by Australian Ballot
March 5, 2013
Mark made a motion to approve the warnings as presented. Motion approved.
Personnel
Non-Resident Teacher Enrollment Requests
Linda reviewed the policy with the board. Two teachers in the S.U. have requested their children continue to attend GMUHS. Alison read the requirements and it was agreed they have been met.
Student Representative Report
Mr. Ripley read Katie’s report.
Principal Report
Tom requested the board approve a Feb 9th and 10th overnight trip for the wilderness class.
Geralyn made a motion to approve the overnight trip as presented. Motion approved. The nutrition board is having there board meeting in Chester on February 12th and the board is invited. The copiers were delivered today. Tom attended the Rotary breakfast today and Mike Walker from NewsBank spoke. Tom talked about how the staff is working on the improvement plan on ski Tuesdays.
Tom said the Spanish classes assessments have been completed and they know where the students are. Tom discussed the security changes that have been put in place and the changes that are being discussed. Linda sent correspondence by Alert Now to the community members regarding security in our schools. She has met with crisis teams and facility members in the schools. Geralyn expressed a concern about the police presence in the building. Linda said she will look into it. Linda said she feels we need to welcome police as partners and community members. There has been discussion around having armed security guards.
Superintendent Report
Linda is going to send her report to the board. She informed the board of the professional development that will take place at the next teacher in-service.
Committee Reports
Facilities
There is no report at this time.
Policies
Employee Harassment Policy D12
Geralyn said this policy is a mandatory policy crafted by the VT School Boards Association.
Geralyn made a motion to adopt Policy D12 as presented. Motion approved.
Firearms Policy F2
Geralyn reported this is also a mandatory policy crafted by the VT School Boards Association. Discussion: “including school grounds” should be added to the definitions. Geralyn made a motion to adopt policy F2 with the change to the definition to include “including school grounds”. Motion approved.
WSWSU/Two Rivers S.U. Transition Board
Ginger resigned as a voting member on the GMUHS board.
Public Comment
None
Executive Session
Geralyn made a motion to go into executive at 7:05 p.m. to discuss personnel. Motion approved. The board came out of executive session at 7:52 p.m. No action taken.
Other Business
None
Adjournment
Ginger made a motion to adjourn. Meeting adjourned at 7:53 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Virginia M. Walsh Mack
Recording Secretary
_______________________________________________________________________________
Green Mountain Union High School
Green Mountain Union High School Meeting
Thursday, December 13, 2012, 6:00 p.m.
Green Mountain Union High School – Library
Unapproved Minutes
Present:
Board: Alison DesLauriers-Chair, Arne Jonynas-Vice Chair, Geralyn Donohue, Dr. Bont, Mark Bodin, Mark Huntley and Katie McNally
Administration: Linda S. Waite-Superintendent, Tom Ferenc-Principal, Chris Adams-Business Manager, Sherri Nichols-Buckley-Curriculum Coordinator, and Mike Ripley-Assoc Principal
Public: SAPA-TV, Virginia Walsh Mack, Sarah Yake, Gary Baker, Hank Mauti, Mike Leonard, and Amy Howlett
Call to Order
Alison called the meeting to order at 6:02 p.m.
Approval of Minutes of November 8, 2012
Arne made a motion to approve the minutes of November 8, 2012 as presented. Motion approved.
Budget Update
Alison said this is still a moving target due to the challenges of putting the TRSU budget together. Alison went over the budget changes. The fund balance is about $220,000. $122,000 of this was put in the budget to offset the education spending which is down slightly.
Chris A. went over the changes due to the assessment (attached). Alison reviewed the revenue page.
Equalized pupil spending affects the tax rate.
The approval of the budget will be on January 10th. On January 3rd the finance and budget committee will meet at 6:30 p.m.
The capitol improvement fund has $240,000. The elevators have not yet been paid ($25,000). Arne recommended revamping the smoke and fire alarms to bring them up to code at a cost of approximately $36,000.00. Other areas that need attention are air handlers, back stops, locker rooms, and bleachers.
Arne said the old truck needs to be sold. The policy for selling school owned property will be reviewed.
The tree work is almost finished. There is a small amount of work that needs to be completed.
Personnel
Hiring Memo
Linda informed the board of the winter coaches that have been hired.
Boys Varsity Basketball- Brian Raponatti, $3455, Boys JV Basketball - Matt McCarthy; $2590, Girls Varsity Basketball - Chris Wood; $3455, Girls JV Basketball – Chris Wood (modified schedule); $1,295.00, Cheerleading - Jessica Clay; $2246, Middle School Boys Basketball - Scott Renfro (Two Teams); $2418, Middle School Girls Basketball - Elise Lisle ( Two Teams); $2418 and Winter Track - Jon Rice; $2604
Co-Curricular Reports
Linda reported she has received reports from Julie Walton for soccer and Fritz Wendlendt for the play One Flew Over The Cukoos Nest. Linda thanked the students and the teachers.
School Improvement Plan
Sherri and Tom reported on the Improvement Plan for 2012-1013. The staff created a priority list and clustered the 10 indicators into 5 goals. Sherri gave kudos to the staff for their work on this document.
Tom said the work was done in interdisciplinary teams. Once this is approved they will work at implementing it. This document “dove tails” with the schools action plan. Geralyn asked why these things in the plan are not being done now. Much of what is in the document came from the action plan. Many of the things in the improvement plan have already been done or are continuing to be worked on. David Liben, the peer coach, is also reviewing the plan. The board will need time to review the plan and they want to see Mr. Liben’s suggestions. The board will email Linda with comments or suggestions after reading the document. There will be a review of the plan every 12 weeks.
Student Representative Report
Katie left to perform in the concert.
Principal Report
Tom welcomed everyone. He spoke about school publicity and the after school activities that are taking place. Mr. Ripley is sending Alert Now emails. “Pause Before You Post” is a program that is going to be used to stamp out bullying and harassment.
The school concert is going on now. They continue to post on the blog. The website is being revamped. Tom gave the board a data report on the Learning Commons and a copy of the Language Arts class newspaper. Donna Allen from the Vermont Journal did a spread on Ipad usage and how it is helping students learn. The school store is flourishing. Alison commented on how well stocked the school store is. Suggestion: To sell GM shirts/sweatshirts at the school store.
Superintendent Report
Linda has received two requests for out of district students in 7th grade to remain in 8th grade from Ellen Cameron and Jen Harper, CTES teachers. Linda would like input from the board. This falls under the nonresident teacher policy. Linda will bring the policy to the next meeting.
Lauren received a grant to implement an electronic tool called Health Record Solution.
Ally Oswald and Mike Eppolito received a grant for $25,000 based on work on Professional Learning and Critical Friends training. 9 teachers will attend the Critical Friends conference which will allow them to be leaders in their schools.
Sherri has put together winter professional development for teachers. The courses are Math as a Second Language and The Vermont Writing Collaborative Reading, Writing and the Common Core Institute.
The fact finding session for the teacher negotiations has been scheduled for January.
Support staff mediation will be on Wednesday, December 19th at 5:30 p.m.
Committee Reports
Facilities
Discussed under Budget Discussion
Policies
Prevention of Bullying Policy F32 – Adoption
Geralyn said this is a mandatory policy. Dr. Bont made a motion to adopt the Prevention of Bullying Policy F32 policy as presented. Motion approved.
Transportation to RVTC Policy F 12.1 – First Read
Geralyn is suggesting this policy be revised to allow students to drive other students to the Tech Center. Discussion ensued: GMUHS did allow this in the past and changed it due to an accident. Geralyn asked why we allow students to drive at all. Dr. Bont said a number of teenage students in a car create more of a risk.
Employee Harassment Policy D12 – First Read
Geralyn asked for any suggestions or changes.
Firearms Policy F21 – First Read
Geralyn asked for any suggestions or changes.
WSWSU/Two Rivers S.U. Transition Board
The committees are busy and the board continues to meet. Fletcher Farm was looked at as a possible location for the central office. The TRSU Board is hoping to adopt a budget at their December 20th meeting.
Public Comment
None
Executive Session
Dr. Bont made a motion to go into executive session to discuss a personnel contract and to invite Linda and Tom at 7:46 pm. Motion approved. The board came out of executive session at 8:02 p.m. The board approved the minutes.
Other Business
Tom said the delivery of Spanish has gone back to traditional teaching instead of the total emersion format which was taught at the beginning of the year.
Adjournment
Alison made a motion to adjourn. Meeting adjourned at 8:03 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Virginia M. Walsh Mack
Recording Secretary
_______________________________________________________________________________
Green Mountain Union High School
Green Mountain Union High School Board Meeting
Thursday, November 29, 2012, 6:00 p.m.
Green Mountain Union High School – Library
*Special Board Meeting
Unapproved Minutes
Present:
Board: Alison DesLauriers-Chair, Arne Jonynas-Vice Chair, Geralyn Donohue, Dr. Bont and Mark Bodin
Administration: Linda S. Waite-Superintendent, Tom Ferenc-Principal, Chris Adams-Business Manger, Lauren Baker-Dir of Information Technology and Integrated Instruction, Wayne Flewelling-Special Education Director, Mike Ripley-Assoc Principal and Pam O’Neil-Director of Guidance
Public: Virginia Walsh Mack, Sarah Yake, Gary Baker, Hank Mauti, Mike Leonard, and Amy Howlett
Call to Order
Alison called the meeting to order at 6:06 p.m.
Elect Budget Committee Member
Alison reported Sarah Yake is interested in serving as a budget committee member. Geralyn asked if this is a conflict of interest with Sarah’s husband being an employee. Alison said
She didn’t think this was an issue. Arne is a board member and his wife is an employee.
Mark Bodin made a motion to appoint Sarah Yake as a budget committee member for Andover. Discussion ensued regarding the possibility of this being a conflict of interest.
Motion approved. Vote: 3 yes. 1 abstained.
Budget Discussion
Alison said this is a draft budget. She said this is not where they want to end up. Health insurance increases were discussed. It will be an estimated $70,000 increase for Green Mountain.
Additions to the budget are in technology to help with computers in the learning common and to repair and replace the older computers used in classrooms. Also to allow 7th grade and 10th grade students to have hand held devices. They need to provide options for students in a school with declining enrollment. Tom talked about the school improvement team which is mandatory because of Green Mountain not meeting AYP.
There is a request for additional special education personnel. Wayne reported there is a need for additional staff because next year the case loads will be larger. It is a significant increase; 46 to 58. Wayne said out of district placement costs are for extraordinary costs from students who cannot attend Green Mountain and have to be placed elsewhere. Wayne said he did not know the ratio of regular and special education. Special education students are promoted the same way as regular education students. The tax payers should see a reduction at the elementary schools.
Alison talked about fuel costs and inflationary costs which are for the union negotiations. The tech center number will go down.
Geralyn said she is disappointed that the curriculum work over the past two years was focused on the middle school and the high school missed out. Linda said the curriculum work has been done for the middle and the high school from the beginning.
There is a .6 increase in science. The SU assessment was discussed. Alison said the TRSU board is going to ask for more reduction in the TRSU budget. Chris said the merger is a challenge and it will take a couple of years to smooth things out. Alison said this is a two year process. Discussion ensued regarding the Driver’s Ed car. The lease on the car is not being renewed. The business office is looking into options.
Tom talked about the HS transformation /Professional development line.
Alison asked for direction from the budget committee.
Discussion: 504 accommodations, capitol improvement, health insurance costs, state funding formula.
Alison said she thinks they could approve the budget by January 10th.
Adjournment
Geralyn made a motion to adjourn. Meeting adjourned at 7:21 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Virginia M. Walsh Mack
Recording Secretary
_______________________________________________________________________________
Green Mountain Union High School
Green Mountain Union High School Meeting
Thursday, November 8, 2012, 5:30 p.m.
Green Mountain Union High School – Library
*Amended
Unapproved Minutes
Present:
Board: Alison DesLauriers-Chair, Arne Jonynas-Vice Chair, Geralyn Donohue, Mark Bodin, Ginger Roper, Katie McNally, Emily Guerra and Dr. Bont
Administration: Linda S. Waite-Superintendent, Tom Ferenc-Principal, Chris Adams-Business Manager, Mike Ripley-Associate Principal, Lauren Baker-Director of Information Technology and Integrated Instruction, and Pam O’Neil-Director of Guidance
Public: SAPA-TV, Virginia Walsh Mack, Gary Baker and seven members of the public
Call to Order
Alison called the meeting to order at 5:33 p.m.
Approval of Minutes of October 11, 2012, October 18, 2012 & November 2, 2012
Mark B. made a motion to approve the minutes of October 11th, October 18th and November 2, 2012. Correction: October 11th minutes: Student Representative(s). Motion approved as amended.
Personnel
Hiring Memo
Linda reported John Johannesen has been hired as a bus driver at an hourly rate of $13.50 and Mary Batchelder as a Para professional at an hourly rate of $12.81 plus an additional $2.50 SPED stipend.
Retirement Letter
Linda received a letter from Kevin Surma indicating he will be retiring in June. He is requesting compensation for unused sick leave. Alison said he will be missed. Geralyn made a motion to accept the letter with regret. Motion approved.
Co-Curricular Reports
Linda received letters from Ashley Carafiello, Scott Walker, and Julie Walton. Linda thanked the coaches and the athletes.
Student Representatives Report
The NHS had a successful clothing drive; basketball is starting after Thanksgiving and currently there is “Open Gym”. The One Flew Over The Cookoos Nest performance will be held on November 9th and 10th at 7:00 p.m.
NECAP tests had an overall level of attempts-there was a major effort by the junior students-if they receive a 4 on the test they are exempt from taking their final exam.
Principal Report
Tom welcomed everyone. Tonight is parent teacher conferences. The students along with the Rotary had a sold out Cabaret. Tom presented at the Rotary breakfast regarding the skill set colleges and businesses want from students. Geralyn asked if we are preparing our student appropriately. Tom said not across the board.
Some Green Mountain employees helped with the new Family Center.
Superintendent Report
WSWSU mediation took place on October 15th a date will be set for the next steps. The support staff mediation will take place on Dec 19th at GMUHS at 5 p.m.
The Administrative Counsel discussed using December 21st as a makeup day for the school closing on October 29th.
Linda attended the VSBA/VSA conference at Lake Morey. Linda participated as a member of the newly formed Education Quality Standards Commission. She gave the board an article on the upcoming implementation on the Common Core (attached).
The Common Core is currently being integrated into the curriculum. The Common Core documents up through eighth grade will be presented to the executive committee next week. HS course work will go with the assessments hands on approach. The lesson plans are now being planned for four to six weeks instead of daily lesson plans. Linda explained the components of the new plans. Sharing of lesson plans should happen across the state more often. The school improvement plan is not based on the NECAP results; it is based on best educational practices. Linda discussed the goals in the school improvement plan.
Copier Lease Agreement
Chris Adams summarized the copier lease (attached). The copiers Green Mountain has are outdated. The proposal is for $6,802.85 for four machines and a service contract which is less than the current agreement. The total annual cost currently is $11,475.16; the new cost will be $10,150.85 with the service contract. Dr. Bont made a motion to approve the copier lease with OCE for an amount of $6,802.85 for four copiers for a four year lease. Motion approved.
Budget Update
The draft is still a work in progress. It has been a process with the new SU. There were some glitches with the numbers from the state. Tom talked about the initiatives that were first looked at three years ago regarding technology. He said they are looking at giving 7th and 10th graders hand held devices and technology based learning. The focus needs to be economical status and the gender gap. Alison said they would like to schedule a board meeting on November 29th at 6:00 pm and focus on the budget.
Committee Reports
Facilities
Arne reported the elevator repair continues. Things are moving along smoothly.
Policies
Prevention of Bullying Policy F32 – First Read
This is a new mandatory policy which is very important. Geralyn gave an overview of the policy. There needs to be a designated person’s title who will keep data in the school. The associate principal will be designated. Suggestions: when it says principal or superintendent it should also say “or his or her designee”. Discussion: The policy states repeated bullying but what about the bully who bullies a number of students. This policy doesn’t address that. The board would like an update on the data and how they are handled. This will go on the December agenda for adoption.
Class Size Policy G15 – (Renumbering)
Geralyn reported this was adopted as G14 and there was another policy with this number. Geralyn made a motion to renumber Class Size Policy to G15. Motion approved.
WSWSU/Two Rivers S.U. Transition Board
The committees are working hard. There needs to be more public relations. The P.R. committee has their first meeting planned.
Public Comment
Christine Dyke is a resident of Grafton and has a daughter who attends Green Mountain. She is concerned about the Spanish class and would like to know what the plan is going to be. There is a plan in place moving forward. This is a difficult situation and was a surprise and not planned for. It is very difficult to find someone. A certified Spanish teacher has been hired. An assessment has been given to the classes to help the new teacher see where the students are in the three classes. Plans and formative assessments were developed by the Curriculum Coordinator for the students. The parents would like to know what the options are for the long term plan. Tom will get back to the board on the long term plan. The parents requested a weekly update on the students.
Executive Session
Geralyn made a motion to go into executive session to discuss negotiations and to invite Linda and Tom at 7:05 p.m. Motion approved. The board came out of executive session at 7:18 p.m. No action taken.
Other Business
None
Adjournment
Geralyn made a motion to adjourn. Meeting adjourned at 7:19 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Virginia M. Walsh Mack
Recording Secretary
_______________________________________________________________________________
Green Mountain Union High School
Green Mountain Union High School Board Meeting
Friday, November 2, 2012, 8:00 a.m.
Windsor Southwest Supervisory Union – Conference Room
*Special Board Meeting
Unapproved Minutes
Present:
Board: Alison DesLauriers-Chair, Arne Jonynas-Vice Chair, Geralyn Donohue, and Mark Huntley
Administration: Linda S. Waite-Superintendent and Tom Ferenc-Principal
Public: Virginia Walsh Mack
Call to Order
Alison called the meeting to order at 8:07 a.m.
Personnel
Spanish Teacher Nomination
Tom gave background on Rossana Landau (nomination form attached).
Linda is recommending Rossana Landau as a .67 Spanish teacher. Tom checked her references. The other two applicants that applied were out of the country so Tom did not interview them. Rossana is in the process of getting her VT teaching license and can start on November 12th. Geralyn made a motion to hire Rossana Landau as a .67 Spanish teacher in the amount of $21,038.00. Motion approved. The board discussed the substitute needed until November 12th.
Executive Session
Arne made a motion to go into executive session at 8:10 a.m. to discuss personnel. Linda and Tom were invited. Motion approved.
The board came out of executive session at 8:26 a.m.
Adjournment
Geralyn made a motion to adjourn. Meeting adjourned at 8:36 a.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Virginia M. Walsh Mack
Recording Secretary
_______________________________________________________________________________
Green Mountain Union High School
Green Mountain Union High School Board Meeting
Thursday, October 18, 2012, 6:00 p.m.
Green Mountain Union High School – Library
*Special Board Meeting
Unapproved Minutes
Present:
Board: Alison DesLauriers-Chair, Mark Bodin, Geralyn Donohue and Dr. Bont
Administration: Linda S. Waite-Superintendent and Michael Ripley-Assoc Principal
Public: None
Call to Order
Alison called the meeting to order at 6:05 p.m.
Personnel
Request for Release from Contract
Alison requested the board go into executive session.
Executive Session
Alison made a motion to go into executive session at 6:05 to discuss personnel and to invite the superintendent. Motion approved.
The board came out of executive session at 6:17 p.m.\
Action: Geralyn made a motion to release Angelka Dodd from her 2012-2013 teacher contract. Motion approved.
Adjournment
Mark made a motion to adjourn. Meeting adjourned at 6:18 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Linda S. Waite
WSWSU Superintendent
_______________________________________________________________________________
Green Mountain Union High School
Green Mountain Union High School Board Retreat and Meeting
Thursday, October 11, 2012, 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Green Mountain Union High School – Library
Unapproved Minutes
Present:
Board: Alison DesLauriers-Chair, Arne Jonynas, Geralyn Donohue, Mark Huntley, Mark Bodin, Ginger Roper and Dr. Bont
Administration: Linda S. Waite-Superintendent, Tom Ferenc-Principal, Chris Adams-Business Manager, Mike Ripley-Associate Principal and Pam O’Neil-Director of Guidance
Public: Virginia Walsh Mack
Call to Order
Alison called the meeting to order at 11:00 a.m.
School Wide Visits
Tom went over the schedule for the day.
1:00 p.m.-Feedback from program/classroom visits: Dr. Bont said these experiences are exciting. Discussion: The offerings at Green Mountain are amazing; differentiated learning is so important; the shift of responsibility to the student; the excitement of having collaboration; technology goes through the library; creating a survey for the staff regarding technology; the time being spent on discipline for a few students and not enough work time; wilderness class enabling some students to be successful; robotics class is fun; many students stayed engaged; the interaction keeps kids learning; a positive experience; the teachers had an even keel with the students; a lot of variety; different levels of engagement; the connections that are made with the teachers; the meal was tasty; the salad bar is outstanding;
Alison introduced Chris Adams-Business Manager for WSWSU
Approval of Minutes of September 13, 201
Geralyn made a motion to approve the minutes of September 13, 2012 as presented.
Correction: School action plan: misspelling: Parity, professional development policy D2-no colon. Minutes were approved as amended.
Election of Vice Chair
Alison asked for nominations for the Vice Chair. Ginger nominated Arne as vice chair.
Dr. Bont closed the nominations. Arne was elected Vice Chair until March 2013.
Spring 2012 Science NECAP Scores
Linda reported on the test scores (attached). Science inquiry has to do with hands on science. Students are tested on their scientific procedures. There was a decrease in the 8th grade science score. 11th grade increased. The boys outperformed the girls. There has been a concerted effort with the gender gap.
Personnel
Resignation Letter
Linda said she received a letter from Sheila McDonald notifying the board of her intent to retire at the end of the school year. She has requested the sick leave benefit. She has been a long time teacher at GMUHS. Dr. Bont made a motion to accept Sheila’s resignation with appreciation. Motion approved.
2012-13 Para Educator Hiring Update
Tom reported Jessica Clay has been hired for the remainder of the school year as a special education Para professional to replace Pam Laffaye. Tom gave the board background on Jessica.
Snow Removal Bid Award
Chris went over the process of the bid. His recommendation (attached) is to hire Butch Wilson on a per storm basis. Chris is recommending using Michael Waysville for the roof shoveling. Arne made a motion to award the snowplowing and sanding on a per storm basis to Butch Wilson at a cost of $300.00 for plowing and $175.00 for sanding. Motion approved.
Student Representative Report
The student representative was not present due to the meeting being held during the school day.
Principal Report
Tom asked the board to approve the wilderness program’s overnight trip on the Appalachian Trail. 15 students and three chaperones will be going. Mark Bodin made a motion to approve the wilderness program’s overnight trip as presented. Motion approved. Tom is asking the board to approve a 7th and 8th grade trip to Washington D.C. There are approximately 45 students that will attend. Dr. Bont made a motion to approve the trip to Washington DC. Motion approved.
Tom said the staff has worked hard on the improvement plan to meet AYP. The plan goes to the superintendent in November for approval and to the board in December for approval.
Vetted problem solving problems are being used.
Superintendent Report
Linda thanked Tom for putting today’s agenda together. She thanked the staff for being so welcoming. The mediation with the boards and the WSWSU Education Assoc is scheduled for Monday, October 15th at 5:30 p.m. The new SU’s new name is Two Rivers S.U.
The VSBA conference is October 25th and 26th. She gave the board a list of offerings at the conference. She hopes GMUHS will have representation.
Linda thanked Tom and the GMUHS staff for their work on the improvement plan.
Preliminary Budget Discussion
Alison asked for feedback. Discussion: what is needed from the budget to do something different?; put the budget together as to what is needed first; a schedule is important; supporting the improvement plans for AYP; tax rates are a huge issue in Cavendish; a budget timeline.
Committee Reports
Facilities
Arne reported there was a fire inspection; he has a four page report. There were no major problems. They have asked for a 1, 3, and 5 year plan. Brendan is doing a fantastic job.
Finance
This was discussed earlier.
Policies
Geralyn reported the two supervisory unions had their first combined policy committee meeting. There will be a recommendation for a policy book. The plan is to have a policy manual ready to bring to the boards in March/April.
A new Anti Bullying policy will be ready for the next board meeting.
Each school will be allowed to tweak certain policies.
WSWSU/New S.U. Transition Board
The new SU has been named Two Rivers S.U.
Bruce Williams and Linda have worked out a plan as a team. Bruce will have the title of Superintendent and Linda will have the title of Associate Superintendent.
Public Comment
Dr. Bont gave the board an article about teaching.
Executive Session
Mark made a motion to go into executive session at 3:12 p.m. to discuss personnel and negotiations and the principal and superintendent were invited. Motion approved. The board came out of executive committee at 3:45 p.m. No action taken.
Other Business
Ginger said the Art teacher asked about interest in purchasing student artwork.
Adjournment
Dr. Bont made a motion to adjourn. Meeting adjourned at 3:45 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Virginia M. Walsh Mack
Recording Secretary
______________________________________________________________________
Green Mountain Union High School
Green Mountain Union High School Board Meeting
Thursday, September 13, 2012, 5:30 p.m.
Green Mountain Union High School – Library
Unapproved Minutes
Present:
Board: Alison DesLauriers-Chair, Arne Jonynas, Geralyn Donohue, Mark Huntley, Mark Bodin, Dr. Bont and Emily Guerra-student representitive
Administration: Linda S. Waite-Superintendent, Tom Ferenc-Principal, Mike Ripley-Assoc. Principal and Sherri Nichols-Buckley
Public: SAPTV, Virginia Walsh Mack
Call to Order
Alison called the meeting to order at 5:35 p.m.
Alison welcomed Mark Bodin, the Andover representative, to the board.
Approval of Minutes of July 19, 2012 and August 16, 2012
Geralyn made a motion to approve the minutes of July 19, and August 16, 2012 as presented. Motion approved.
Personnel
Co-Curricular Nomination
Linda informed the board of the co curricular contracts and the fall coaches(attached). Discussion ensued regarding a non employee acting as a .50 advisor.
Hiring Memorandum
Linda informed the board of the hiring of Debbie Knockenhauer as a Food Service Provider.
Resignation Letters
The attached letters have been approved by Linda.
Leave of Absence Request
Linda recommends Pam Laffaye’s request for a one year leave of absence. Tom said Pam will stay until a replacement is found. Arne made a motion to approve Pam Laffaye’s request for a leave of absence for the FY13 school year and agrees to stay until a replacement is found. Motion approved.
Annual Yearly Progress Report
Status
Alison introduced Sherri Nichols-Buckley, Curriculum Coordinator. Sherri informed the board how to read the 2012 Adequate Yearly Progress Report Based on 2011 Results (attached). GMUHS made AYP in reading and did not make AYP in math. The goal is for all students to be proficient in 2014. Sherri feels constructive responses seems to be an area of concern. There is no recognition for student growth. Linda said the NECAP test will no longer be given after 2013. Sherri said the new assessment will take student growth into account. 82% of schools in Vermont did not make AYP in either reading or math. 101 schools this year did not make AYP and are in year one of school improvement. 82% of schools nationwide did not make AYP. Alison mentioned they are going in the right direction
since GM did not make AYP in reading or math last year. Discussion: The correlation with MAPS and NECAP tests; the students having test fatigue; aligning the tests with the Common Core; the lack of interest the students have after three days of testing; celebrating the measures of student success in other areas.
School Improvement Assurances
Sherri explained Green Mountain’s year one school improvement plan (attached) which are to establish SU-level and school-level school improvement teams, provide written notice to parents that school has not met AYP, offer school choice, assess current status and develop school improvement plan using Green Mountain Star, complete and submit assurance form by 8/31/12 which has been done.
School Action Plan
Tom discussed the Action Plan (attached) which is divided into three sections: curriculum, climate and parody. Literacy is the focus to make AYP. A needs assessment has been developed for each subject. Climate: There are survey results, discipline referrals, they are taking actions to help improve climate. Yearly staff evaluations- teachers were surveyed regarding the new evaluation. Areas addressed were more cohesion in the schools, feedback to the teachers in a timely manner. The Danielson model is being looked at as the two supervisory unions are merging. Teachers felt unsure as to how the informal walkthrough impacted the final evaluation. Curriculum: the focus has been technology; online learning, the learning common, blended learning, to improve student opportunity,
opportunity for students to access knowledge online, students are encouraged to take at least one online course. The literacy goals were discussed. Parody was discussed regarding the gender gap; there are solid studies on the gender gap and there should be more direct actions; there seems to be more out there for girls; have more positive actions; informational text is being implemented with the common core which should help.
Alison asked for a motion to approve the action plan. Geralyn made a motion to approve the Green Mountain Union High School 2012-2013 Action Plan. Motion approved.
Student Representative Report
Emily Guerra reported the students are not happy about the “three tardys” and you get a Friday detention; there is no late bus on Friday, Soccer has started; back to school night was fun; there was a college fair at St Michaels today; the NYC trip is open to anyone; the sale on the green is coming up; there is a request for an overnight senior trip. Alison recommended the students have a discussion with the administration regarding the senior trip and the three tardys.
Principal Report
Tom welcomed Mark to the board and thanked Emily for her report. The principal’s daily blog is up and running. He asked for feedback on the blog. The school opening has been uneventful. Tom welcomed Jim Tornquist to the technology department. Tom asked for approval for the trip to NYC.
Dr. Bont made a motion to approve the music department’s trip to NYC. Motion approved.
The efforts for middle school initiative are continuing; the middle school will have their own yearbook and they are running a school store. Green Mountain has two foreign exchange students and Green Mountain is happy to have them. The middle school iPad rollout went well. Tom said this was a large endeavor and he thanked the middle school staff. The parent session informing them of the program went very well. Next Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday Tom will be in Washington with the other Teachers of the Year to discuss issues with Vermont’s representatives.
Superintendent Report
Linda congratulated Tom on his award. The work to transform education at Green Mountain has been phenomenal. She commended Tom and Sherri for their efforts. All administrators attended a conference at Killington in August where Dr. Bill Daggat presented. Dr. Daggat then presented to the WSWSU staff on the Common Core. Linda has been attending superintendent meetings and will be sharing the information with the boards. She gave the board information on the VSBA conferences being held.
Committee Reports
Facilities
The elevator is working; the state fire marshal visited and was happy with the progress that has been made and saw some areas to address; trees in the back of the building have been removed; there was a need for bus drivers but it looks like they will be hiring the last one next week.
Finance
Alison said she and the business manager have been looking at last year’s budget. She has not been able to come up with a time to meet with him that works for both of them. She wants to wait until the auditors are finished to give the board a final number.
Policies
Professional Development D:2
Geralyn made a motion to adopt Policy D:2-Professional Development. Motion approved.
Policy Committee Membership and Date
Geralyn gave background on the policy.
WSWSU/New S.U. Transition Board
The next meeting is Thursday, September 20th at GMUHS. One board member from each school will be serving on the policy committee. Geralyn will be representing Green Mountain. The October 4th meeting will be at Ludlow Elementary and the October 18th meeting will be at Green Mountain.
Public Comment
None
Executive Session
None
Other Business
Mark commented on AYP. Discussion: student incentives; structure; looking at breaking up the tests; rewards; ask the students for input.
Adjournment
Geralyn made a motion to adjourn. Meeting adjourned at 7:38 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Virginia M. Walsh Mack
Recording Secretary
Green Mountain Union High School
Green Mountain Union High School Board Meeting
Thursday, September 13, 2012, 5:30 p.m.
Green Mountain Union High School – Library
Unapproved Minutes
Present:
Board: Alison DesLauriers-Chair, Arne Jonynas, Geralyn Donohue, Mark Huntley, Mark Bodin, Dr. Bont and Emily Guerra-student representitive
Administration: Linda S. Waite-Superintendent, Tom Ferenc-Principal, Mike Ripley-Assoc. Principal and Sherri Nichols-Buckley
Public: SAPTV, Virginia Walsh Mack
Call to Order
Alison called the meeting to order at 5:35 p.m.
Alison welcomed Mark Bodin, the Andover representative, to the board.
Approval of Minutes of July 19, 2012 and August 16, 2012
Geralyn made a motion to approve the minutes of July 19, and August 16, 2012 as presented. Motion approved.
Personnel
Co-Curricular Nomination
Linda informed the board of the co curricular contracts and the fall coaches(attached). Discussion ensued regarding a non employee acting as a .50 advisor.
Hiring Memorandum
Linda informed the board of the hiring of Debbie Knockenhauer as a Food Service Provider.
Resignation Letters
The attached letters have been approved by Linda.
Leave of Absence Request
Linda recommends Pam Laffaye’s request for a one year leave of absence. Tom said Pam will stay until a replacement is found. Arne made a motion to approve Pam Laffaye’s request for a leave of absence for the FY13 school year and agrees to stay until a replacement is found. Motion approved.
Annual Yearly Progress Report
Status
Alison introduced Sherri Nichols-Buckley, Curriculum Coordinator. Sherri informed the board how to read the 2012 Adequate Yearly Progress Report Based on 2011 Results (attached). GMUHS made AYP in reading and did not make AYP in math. The goal is for all students to be proficient in 2014. Sherri feels constructive responses seems to be an area of concern. There is no recognition for student growth. Linda said the NECAP test will no longer be given after 2013. Sherri said the new assessment will take student growth into account. 82% of schools in Vermont did not make AYP in either reading or math. 101 schools this year did not make AYP and are in year one of school improvement. 82% of schools nationwide did not make AYP. Alison mentioned they are going in the
right direction since GM did not make AYP in reading or math last year. Discussion: The correlation with MAPS and NECAP tests; the students having test fatigue; aligning the tests with the Common Core; the lack of interest the students have after three days of testing; celebrating the measures of student success in other areas.
School Improvement Assurances
Sherri explained Green Mountain’s year one school improvement plan (attached) which are to establish SU-level and school-level school improvement teams, provide written notice to parents that school has not met AYP, offer school choice, assess current status and develop school improvement plan using Green Mountain Star, complete and submit assurance form by 8/31/12 which has been done.
School Action Plan
Tom discussed the Action Plan (attached) which is divided into three sections: curriculum, climate and parody. Literacy is the focus to make AYP. A needs assessment has been developed for each subject. Climate: There are survey results, discipline referrals, they are taking actions to help improve climate. Yearly staff evaluations- teachers were surveyed regarding the new evaluation. Areas addressed were more cohesion in the schools, feedback to the teachers in a timely manner. The Danielson model is being looked at as the two supervisory unions are merging. Teachers felt unsure as to how the informal walkthrough impacted the final evaluation. Curriculum: the focus has been technology; online learning, the learning common, blended learning, to improve student
opportunity, opportunity for students to access knowledge online, students are encouraged to take at least one online course. The literacy goals were discussed. Parody was discussed regarding the gender gap; there are solid studies on the gender gap and there should be more direct actions; there seems to be more out there for girls; have more positive actions; informational text is being implemented with the common core which should help.
Alison asked for a motion to approve the action plan. Geralyn made a motion to approve the Green Mountain Union High School 2012-2013 Action Plan. Motion approved.
Student Representative Report
Emily Guerra reported the students are not happy about the “three tardys” and you get a Friday detention; there is no late bus on Friday, Soccer has started; back to school night was fun; there was a college fair at St Michaels today; the NYC trip is open to anyone; the sale on the green is coming up; there is a request for an overnight senior trip. Alison recommended the students have a discussion with the administration regarding the senior trip and the three tardys.
Principal Report
Tom welcomed Mark to the board and thanked Emily for her report. The principal’s daily blog is up and running. He asked for feedback on the blog. The school opening has been uneventful. Tom welcomed Jim Tornquist to the technology department. Tom asked for approval for the trip to NYC.
Dr. Bont made a motion to approve the music department’s trip to NYC. Motion approved.
The efforts for middle school initiative are continuing; the middle school will have their own yearbook and they are running a school store. Green Mountain has two foreign exchange students and Green Mountain is happy to have them. The middle school iPad rollout went well. Tom said this was a large endeavor and he thanked the middle school staff. The parent session informing them of the program went very well. Next Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday Tom will be in Washington with the other Teachers of the Year to discuss issues with Vermont’s representatives.
Superintendent Report
Linda congratulated Tom on his award. The work to transform education at Green Mountain has been phenomenal. She commended Tom and Sherri for their efforts. All administrators attended a conference at Killington in August where Dr. Bill Daggat presented. Dr. Daggat then presented to the WSWSU staff on the Common Core. Linda has been attending superintendent meetings and will be sharing the information with the boards. She gave the board information on the VSBA conferences being held.
Committee Reports
Facilities
The elevator is working; the state fire marshal visited and was happy with the progress that has been made and saw some areas to address; trees in the back of the building have been removed; there was a need for bus drivers but it looks like they will be hiring the last one next week.
Finance
Alison said she and the business manager have been looking at last year’s budget. She has not been able to come up with a time to meet with him that works for both of them. She wants to wait until the auditors are finished to give the board a final number.
Policies
Professional Development D:2
Geralyn made a motion to adopt Policy D:2-Professional Development. Motion approved.
Policy Committee Membership and Date
Geralyn gave background on the policy.
WSWSU/New S.U. Transition Board
The next meeting is Thursday, September 20th at GMUHS. One board member from each school will be serving on the policy committee. Geralyn will be representing Green Mountain. The October 4th meeting will be at Ludlow Elementary and the October 18th meeting will be at Green Mountain.
Public Comment
None
Executive Session
None
Other Business
Mark commented on AYP. Discussion: student incentives; structure; looking at breaking up the tests; rewards; ask the students for input.
Adjournment
Geralyn made a motion to adjourn. Meeting adjourned at 7:38 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Virginia M. Walsh Mack
Recording Secretary
__________________________________________________________________________________________
UNAPPROVED MINUTES
Green Mountain Union High School
Board Meeting Minutes
July 19, 2012 5:30 p.m.
Board Present: Bill Bourque – Chair, Alison DesLauriers – Vice Chair, Geralyn Donohue, Arne Jonynas, Gene Bont, Mark Huntley
Administration Present: Linda Waite – Superintendent, Tom Ferenc – Principal, Mike Ripley -Associate Principal,
Public Present: Kyle Rogstead -SAPA-TV, Pam O’Neil – GM Guidance Department, Jack Carroll - Food Service Supervisor, Lauren Baker – WSWSU Technology Director, Janet Currier –Recording Secretary
Call to Order – Bill Bourque called meeting to order at to order at 5:37 p.m.
Approval of Minutes of June 7, 2012 – Geralyn moved approval, Gene seconded. Arne said under Facilities/Finance it should state” there will be a potential issue with Green Mountain discharge to the Sewer Plant of Chester”. Minutes were approved as amended.
Personnel:
Hiring Report - Linda recommended Angelka Dodd as the new GM Spanish Teacher. Her start date will be August 24th. Linda reported that Angelka has completed the teacher certification program and she is licensed in Vermont. Her salary will be $26,713.00 for the .67 Spanish position. Tom said Angelka has a very nice academic background and lived in Honduras so she was totally immersed in Spanish during that time. Alison reminded the Board that Mary Pelkey submitted her letter of resignation at the last meeting but the board did not accept it at that time, and need to do so at the next meeting. Geralyn moved, Gene seconded to hire Angelka Dodd as the new Spanish Teacher. Board approved.
Teacher Hiring -Tom made the recommendation to fill the Administrative Assistant position in his office. He said the recommendation is to hire Eric Anderson for this position. He said Eric was formerly A.D. and part-time P.E. teacher. The hiring committee felt he was the best candidate for the job. He is highly proficient in technology and his goal is to be in administration in education. Alison said the board will need to accept his resignation.
Tom and the hiring committee are recommending John Yake for the vacant Library position. He is a certified English Teacher and has been at GM for several years and knows the students.
Tom said that they are not sure of the exact number of paras that will be needed for the upcoming school year.
Co-Curricular Reports – Linda said the co-curricular reports were sent to the office but with Debbie being out they weren’t made into PDF’s to go with the agenda. They will be presented at the next meeting.
Proposed Mental Health Clinician Position- Tom said they want a Green Mountain employee for the proposed Mental Health Clinician position. Pam O’Neil said we hire through HCRS now. She said they feel that more kids will be able to be served by using our own in-house person. Pam explained by using the HCRS model we can not really tell just what kids need what services because of the way their program is run and how they have to work with groups of kids. This will be a full-time position. The new position will be about $15,000 over what we pay HCRS for part-time services. Gene moved to approve position. Arne seconded. Board approved.
Food Service Training New Requirements – Linda said she communicated with the Principals the new information on Dietary Guidelines for meal patterns. She asked for either the Principal or their Cafeteria Supervisor to attend the Child Nutrition Workshop in August. She said one of her goals is to look at school meal patterns/guidelines. Tom said Jack is on top of all this and they are always looking for ways to make meals better and more profitable. Jack Carroll was present and he passed out information on the workshop and the classes that will be provided. He explained the Nutrition Workshop and said he would be attending and would be involved in putting together a cookbook of recipes used by cafeteria supervisors. Jack said he uses Black River Produce for their fresh produce
from local growers and said they make their own fresh sauces, soups and chili. They try to keep the food interesting to keep kids eating. Geralyn suggested getting new trays, etc. to make the meals more appealing. Alison said that Flood Brook raised their prices to $3.00 for lunches and asked if Green Mountain should raise their prices as well. Arne said he would rather keep prices down, and if we have to supplement the program some, he is okay with that. Jack said he is talking with Black River Produce about getting ground beef from them instead of federal beef. There was a discussion about having a garden at Green Mountain for the students to be involved with. Jack has attended two of the USDA classes regarding new meal patterns and he has been doing what they are teaching for several years now. He said they are mandated on how many fruits and veggies they have to provide the kids. He would like to see a wellness committee formed
with parents, teachers and board members to help with healthy eating issues. Jack said the USDA provides commodity foods, and they send things he doesn’t need. Now he will be able to order what he needs on-line instead of just taking what they send him. He gets $75/student to get free fruit and vegetables from the State of Vermont for Chester-Andover. He wants to apply for this grant for Green Mountain for next year as it can be sold in the school store. He said they feed around 240 kids/day and about half are free and reduced meals.
Discipline Management Model: Tom reported that about 3 years ago Richard Boltax of the State Department came to Green Mountain promoting a Positive Behavior Program. Tom said they could not get enough teachers to agree to go to the training during the summer so they did not do it. He has since found out this program works better with younger kids. He said there are a lot of models out there and that Mike Ripley is in the position to keep positive behavior numbers up. Mike said GM uses the Simmons Model, that there are 4 steps so the kids know they are getting into trouble and why. They get a consequence once they get to his office. Last year there were roughly 100 referrals to the office, or about 10%. He wanted to get the high level of bad behaviors down this year, i.e.,
fighting, cigarettes, etc., but that didn’t happen, but his goal is to work on this. He reviewed the list of the kids that he sees a lot and he plans to work with these kids to find out why they keep coming back to him. If he takes these kids out the number of kids referred is relatively low. Mike said there will be a training given for the new teachers by Mr. Hoskins on this model. Linda thanked Mike for his efforts.
Apple Lease Agreement: Lauren Baker explained the agreement. She asked the board to authorize Linda to sign the lease agreement. Tom gave those present a memo that explained Technology Planning for FY13. Lauren said all students’ grades 3-8 at Cavendish, Chester-Andover and Green Mountain will have I-Pads assigned to them when school starts this year. Uren said the next step will be to get I-Pads for all the high school students. Alison made motion to authorize Linda to sign the Apple Lease Agreement. Gene seconded. Board approved.
Board Goals Update/Date for Board Retreat: Board goals were given to the board. Tom reviewed them: 1. a) Library Learning Commons: The Library has been completed and looks wonderful. b) Technology: For the Administration to provide costs and goal of each student receiving a digital device to use. This has begun to happen with the middle school. c) Public Relations: Tom said they have made some movement on this. Student photos were put on line. Some things have been put on hold because of the upcoming merger. Bill would like more information on things going on at Green Mountain to be made available to the public. 2. Gender Achievement Gap - Tom said they are doing the Robotics Course, an elective class and 22 of the 24 students signed up are male. Another
elective class is the Wilderness Writing Course and they hope boys will be attracted to it as well. Alison suggested having Chris Gray of RVTC come to GM with regard to the Robotics class as he does this at RVTC. Tom said about 42 students attended the Tech Center last year. 3) Middle School: To strengthen the Middle School programming and identity. Tom said there are ongoing meetings between our elementary schools and 7th grade teachers. He said there is a real cohesive group of teachers in the middle school. Discussion of including the Middle School in the GMUHS name took place. 4) Common Time: Tom asked Mike Ripley to discuss this as he does scheduling with Pam O’Neil. Mike said they felt by adding some time back into classrooms would help. It is set up so there will be 45 to 50 minutes/day and kids with IEP’s can get help and other students can do an on-line class. Mike said in-coming seniors will be
upset as they won’t have as much free time. Board Retreat Date: Linda said the Board Retreat date discussed was October 11th, 2012 as it will be about a year from the last retreat. Tom will put out a draft and the time and agenda can be decided at the next meeting.
Student Representative Report: None.
Principal Report: Tom reported that Allan Garvin did the 46 mile hike of Long Trail over a 5 day period and it was a very successful trip. Three students took part. Tom said that Professional Development for teachers begins August 24th, the first day for students is August 29th and the 7th graders will be coming in on the 28th of August.
Superintendent Report: Linda had a document for the purchase of a pick up truck at a cost of $20,074.00 for Green Mountain. The truck will be financed over a 2 year period and there is $10,000.00 in the budget to support this purchase. The document has to be signed by 6 board members.
Linda said there are new staff members at the S.U. office. She is now in the Superintendent’s position, Chris Adams is the new Business Manager and Sherri Nichols-Buckley is the new Curriculum Coordinator.
On August 6th the State will release the AYP (Annual Yearly Progress) Report. Sherri will review the performance of students at the next meeting.
The Administrative Team met today at the central office for their first meeting. In 2 weeks as a team they will attend the Vermont Principals Association Conference at Killington. The theme will be Successful Schools, along with many other topics. Linda said everyone will attend a different strand and will share with others. The Administrative Retreat will attend the VPA Conference where Tom Ferenc will be honored as Principal of the Year on October 25th and 26th at Lake Morey Resort and Conference Center. Linda then gave the board members an article titled: School Administrators in the Cross-fire”. Jeff Frances, Executive Director of the Vermont Superintendents Association sent this article to all Superintendents in Vermont. Linda said she will be on vacation next week
beginning on Tuesday, July 24th.
Committee Reports –A) Facilities: Arne said Brendan McNamara has taken over as Transportation and Custodian head. The custodians are doing a great job cleaning the school. Arne said the window treatments are missing in the Library because of a snafu and they are looking at a new vendor for this project. The elevator project will begin in August and the plan is to have it finished in 3 weeks time. Arne asked for permission to remove the pine trees around the school as they are really too close to the school. The pine needles are causing damage to the room and area around the school. The stumps will be taken down as close to the ground as possible and this will allow the hardwoods already there to take over. Discussion took place with the board agreeing this is a
priority project. Arne said they are in the process of looking at bids for the lobby doors by the gym that must be replaced as they are in sad shape. They will cost $6,000.00 to $7,000.00 to replace. Gene Bont thanked Arne for all his efforts. Arne said it is a team effort.
B) Finance: Alison said the Auditors will come in during August. The new Business Manager is trying to learn his new job but she thinks we are still in the positive with the budget.
C) Policies: Geralyn made motion to adopt D-2 Professional Development. It was not warned for adoption so it will be on the next agenda for adoption. Geralyn withdrew motion.
D) WSWSU/New S.U. Transition Board: Alison welcomed Linda as Superintendent and said Linda has been really busy so far, there are a lot of touch issues right now. Alison said Chris Adams is doing a good job as new Business Manager and Norm Andrews is mentoring Chris. Alison said the new S.U. Board met on July 11th for the first time and Alison and Bob Herbst were elected as co-chairs. The first planning meeting was held yesterday here at GM for 3 hours. One of the first things on document is to figure out leadership. Linda Waite and Bruce Williams will be Co-Superintendents. The State will get the new S.U. a new number, the job of a new name is up to the Board. Any suggestions can be given to a board member for consideration at the August 16th meeting. Alison is hoping to
have a document that is pretty fleshed out for their September meeting. She said the budget for FY14 will be done for the two Supervisory Unions. Gene Bont said he feels things are going very smoothly, tensions seem to be washed away and there is no “us and them”.
Public Comment: None.
Executive Session: None.
Other Business: Bill Bourque submitted his letter of resignation from the GM Board and said this is his last meeting. Everyone thanked Bill and his family for all they have done for the school over the years.
Adjournment – Mark made motion to adjourn meeting at 7:45 p.m. Gene seconded. Board approved.
Respectfully submitted,
Janet Currier
Recording Secretary
__________________________________________________________________________________________
Green Mountain Union High School
Green Mountain Union High School Board Meeting
Thursday, June 7, 2012, 5:00p.m. – 6:00p.m.
Green Mountain Union High School – Library
Unapproved Minutes
Present:
Board: Bill Bourque-Chair, Alison DesLauriers-Vice Chair, Arne Jonynas, Geralyn Donohue, Dr. Bont, Mark Huntley and Katie McNally
Administration: David P. Adams-Superintendent, Linda Waite-Superintendent, Tom Ferenc-Principal, Mike Ripley-Assoc. Principal, Meredith Austin-Business Manager and Lauren Baker-Dir of Information Technology and Integrated Instruction.
Public: SAPTV, Virginia Walsh Mack, Lori Langavin, Kelley Brennan, Jeanie Phillips and Susan Renard
Call to Order
Bill called the meeting to order at 5:04 p.m. Bill welcomed everyone to the new library.
Approval of Minutes of May 10, 2012
Geralyn made a motion to approve the minutes of May 10, 2012 as presented. Correction: Linda reported on the Middle School Service Learning. Motion approved as amended.
Personnel
SPED Nomination
Bill went over the nomination form for Jennifer Parks, candidate for the Special Education Opportunities In Learning Program Teacher. Tom gave the board Jennifer’s background. Alison made a motion to hire Jennifer Parks as the Special Education teacher for FY’13 at a salary determined by the superintendent. Motion approved.
Hiring Report
David reported he is hiring Brendan McNamara as the Facilities and Transportation Supervisor.
Finance
Bank Borrowing Bids
Meredith went over the borrowing memo regarding the bids from Merchants Bank and Peoples Bank. (Attached) Meredith is recommending the board stay with Merchant’s Bank. Alison made a motion to approve the bank borrowing with Merchant’s Bank on July 2, 2012 in the amount of $1,256,557.00. Motion approved.
Bill said this is Meredith’s last meeting and he and the board wish her well.
FY 2012 Audit Contract
The executive board approved the audit contract with Fothergill, Segale and Valley, Certified Public Accountants for $10,000. Alison made a motion to approve the bid as presented. Motion approved.
Student Representative Report
Yesterday was the end of the track meet. The girls came in second and the boys came in third. It was an outstanding day. The softball team made it to the semi finals. Tom announced Katie will be playing the piano this evening.
Principal Report
Tom introduced Kelly Brennan, Social Studies Teacher. Kelley proposed a trip for the AP Social Studies classes from this year and next year to London and France. Discussion ensued. Dr. Bont made a motion to approve the Social Studies trip to Europe. Motion approved.
The Outdoor Leadership Program Teacher, Allan Garvin, is requesting the board approve his hiking trip from July 1, 2012 through July 6, 2012. Dr. Bont made a motion to approve the Outdoor Leadership Program overnight trip. Motion approved.
Tom asked the board for permission to donate the old shelving from the library to the Chester Family Center. Arne made a motion to approve donating the library shelves to the Chester Family Center. Motion approved.
Tom gave the board the last newsletter for the year.
Tom talked about the Blended Learning Program. Lauren presented some of the student web sites that have been created. Tom said the student becomes the point of learning. The teachers can see when and how long a student has been on the site. Jeanie introduced the Standards for the 21st Century Learner. It is designed to welcome all learners. It should be embedded into the content area. The purpose is to enhance and increase learning.
Tom said he knows this new Learning Common will be a positive learning center. Tom thanked everyone involved in the renovation. Alumni will be visiting the building. Alison commented on the value of this renovation and that the work was done without asking for additional tax dollars.
Superintendent Report
Bill said this will be David’s last meeting at Green Mountain. The board wished him well. David thanked the board. He thanked the students at Green Mountain and the team on the renovation committee. David said Alison has been invited to talk about the transformation of education in the state. The community is lucky to have her voice. David has the recreational agreement with the softball league. Alison thanked David.
Committee Reports
Facilities/Finance
Arne reported on some of the projects that will need to be done. The roof needs some repair, the elevator project will take place this summer, the second boiler or alternative energy should be looked at, the hot water heater is the original and will need to be replaced, the bleachers will need to be replaced or repaired, the hot water circulator should be looked at and there will be a potential issue with the sewer treatment plant in Chester.
Alison reported the capitol improvement fund has allowed the board to maintain the building without asking the tax payers for additional funds. She recommends that of the surplus be moved into the capitol improvement fund to continue the necessary work to the school. Alison made a motion to move $100,000.00 to the capitol improvement fund with the approval of the auditors. Motion approved. Dr. Bont said CTES is looking at installing solar panels.
Policies
• Professional Development D:2 First Read
Geralyn gave background on this policy. It is a modification of an existing 2008 policy.
• Acceptable and Responsible use of Electronic Resources & the Internet G:12 – Second Read
• The Use of Restraint and Seclusion F:29 – Second Read
Geralyn made a motion to adopt G:12 and F:29 policies as presented. Motion approved.
WSWSU
Alison reported the merger with RWSU has been approved. There is a fair amount of detail to work out.
Election of New Supervisory Union Representatives
Alison made a motion to elect herself Ginger and Geralyn to work on the transition to a new board. Motion approved.
Public Comment
None
Executive Session
None
Other Business
None
Adjournment
Alison made a motion to adjourn. Meeting adjourned at 6:05 pm.
Respectfully submitted,
Virginia M. Walsh Mack
Recording Secretary
Green Mountain Union High School
Green Mountain Union High School Board Meeting
Thursday, June 7, 2012, 5:00p.m. – 6:00p.m.
Green Mountain Union High School – Library
Unapproved Minutes
Present:
Board: Bill Bourque-Chair, Alison DesLauriers-Vice Chair, Arne Jonynas, Geralyn Donohue, Dr. Bont, Mark Huntley and Katie McNally
Administration: David P. Adams-Superintendent, Linda Waite-Superintendent, Tom Ferenc-Principal, Mike Ripley-Assoc. Principal, Meredith Austin-Business Manager and Lauren Baker-Dir of Information Technology and Integrated Instruction.
Public: SAPTV, Virginia Walsh Mack, Lori Langavin, Kelley Brennan, Jeanie Phillips and Susan Renard
Call to Order
Bill called the meeting to order at 5:04 p.m. Bill welcomed everyone to the new library.
Approval of Minutes of May 10, 2012
Geralyn made a motion to approve the minutes of May 10, 2012 as presented. Correction: Linda reported on the Middle School Service Learning. Motion approved as amended.
Personnel
SPED Nomination
Bill went over the nomination form for Jennifer Parks, candidate for the Special Education Opportunities In Learning Program Teacher. Tom gave the board Jennifer’s background. Alison made a motion to hire Jennifer Parks as the Special Education teacher for FY’13 at a salary determined by the superintendent. Motion approved.
Hiring Report
David reported he is hiring Brendan McNamara as the Facilities and Transportation Supervisor.
Finance
Bank Borrowing Bids
Meredith went over the borrowing memo regarding the bids from Merchants Bank and Peoples Bank. (Attached) Meredith is recommending the board stay with Merchant’s Bank. Alison made a motion to approve the bank borrowing with Merchant’s Bank on July 2, 2012 in the amount of $1,256,557.00. Motion approved.
Bill said this is Meredith’s last meeting and he and the board wish her well.
FY 2012 Audit Contract
The executive board approved the audit contract with Fothergill, Segale and Valley, Certified Public Accountants for $10,000. Alison made a motion to approve the bid as presented. Motion approved.
Student Representative Report
Yesterday was the end of the track meet. The girls came in second and the boys came in third. It was an outstanding day. The softball team made it to the semi finals. Tom announced Katie will be playing the piano this evening.
Principal Report
Tom introduced Kelly Brennan, Social Studies Teacher. Kelley proposed a trip for the AP Social Studies classes from this year and next year to London and France. Discussion ensued. Dr. Bont made a motion to approve the Social Studies trip to Europe. Motion approved.
The Outdoor Leadership Program Teacher, Allan Garvin, is requesting the board approve his hiking trip from July 1, 2012 through July 6, 2012. Dr. Bont made a motion to approve the Outdoor Leadership Program overnight trip. Motion approved.
Tom asked the board for permission to donate the old shelving from the library to the Chester Family Center. Arne made a motion to approve donating the library shelves to the Chester Family Center. Motion approved.
Tom gave the board the last newsletter for the year.
Tom talked about the Blended Learning Program. Lauren presented some of the student web sites that have been created. Tom said the student becomes the point of learning. The teachers can see when and how long a student has been on the site. Jeanie introduced the Standards for the 21st Century Learner. It is designed to welcome all learners. It should be embedded into the content area. The purpose is to enhance and increase learning.
Tom said he knows this new Learning Common will be a positive learning center. Tom thanked everyone involved in the renovation. Alumni will be visiting the building. Alison commented on the value of this renovation and that the work was done without asking for additional tax dollars.
Superintendent Report
Bill said this will be David’s last meeting at Green Mountain. The board wished him well. David thanked the board. He thanked the students at Green Mountain and the team on the renovation committee. David said Alison has been invited to talk about the transformation of education in the state. The community is lucky to have her voice. David has the recreational agreement with the softball league. Alison thanked David.
Committee Reports
Facilities/Finance
Arne reported on some of the projects that will need to be done. The roof needs some repair, the elevator project will take place this summer, the second boiler or alternative energy should be looked at, the hot water heater is the original and will need to be replaced, the bleachers will need to be replaced or repaired, the hot water circulator should be looked at and there will be a potential issue with the sewer treatment plant in Chester.
Alison reported the capitol improvement fund has allowed the board to maintain the building without asking the tax payers for additional funds. She recommends that of the surplus be moved into the capitol improvement fund to continue the necessary work to the school. Alison made a motion to move $100,000.00 to the capitol improvement fund with the approval of the auditors. Motion approved. Dr. Bont said CTES is looking at installing solar panels.
Policies
• Professional Development D:2 First Read
Geralyn gave background on this policy. It is a modification of an existing 2008 policy.
• Acceptable and Responsible use of Electronic Resources & the Internet G:12 – Second Read
• The Use of Restraint and Seclusion F:29 – Second Read
Geralyn made a motion to adopt G:12 and F:29 policies as presented. Motion approved.
WSWSU
Alison reported the merger with RWSU has been approved. There is a fair amount of detail to work out.
Election of New Supervisory Union Representatives
Alison made a motion to elect herself Ginger and Geralyn to work on the transition to a new board. Motion approved.
Public Comment
None
Executive Session
None
Other Business
None
Adjournment
Alison made a motion to adjourn. Meeting adjourned at 6:05 pm.
Respectfully submitted,
Virginia M. Walsh Mack
Recording Secretary
____________________________________________________________________________________
Green Mountain Union High School
Green Mountain Union High School Board Meeting
Thursday, May 10, 2012, 5:30 p.m.
Green Mountain Union High School – Conference Room
Unapproved Minutes
Present:
Board: Bill Bourque-Chair, Alison DesLauriers-Vice Chair, Arne Jonynas, Geralyn Donohue, Dr. Bont, Ginger Roper and Katie McNally
Administration: David P. Adams-Superintendent, Tom Ferenc-Principal, Mike Ripley-Assoc. Principal and Pam O’Neil
Public: SAPTV, Virginia Walsh Mack, Mike McCarthy, Ann Kipp, Ashley Bushey and Joel Gomez.
Call to Order
Bill called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m.
Approval of Minutes of April 12, 2012
Geralyn made a motion to approve the minutes of April 12, 2012 as presented. Correction: Under present: Emily Guerra should be listed as present. Motion approved as amended.
Personnel
Librarian Nomination
David recommended Jeanie Phillips to the board for the Library/Media Specialist position. He gave background on Jeanie.
English Language Arts Teacher Nomination
David recommended Jory Hearst to the board for the English/Language Arts position. He gave background on Jory. Geralyn made a motion to accept the candidates as presented. Discussion ensued regarding the background of the candidates. Motion approved.
Student Representative Report
Katie reported: The M.S. play, “Attention Detention” has been cast. Sports continue. Bill handed out copies of a report from a chaperone from the Grand Canyon trip.
Student Climate Survey
Ann Kipp handed out the climate survey. Ashley Bushey, the Student Government President explained the process used for the survey. The students used an online survey by Survey Monkey. It helped tally the survey. (Attached). Ann discussed the history of the survey. Pam said the survey helps the guidance office to see what is going on. Geralyn asked about making classes available for Tech students returning from the tech center. Pam said they have looked at this and the number of students can be an issue. The board thanked student government and Ann.
Exchange Student Presentation
Bill Dakin introduced Carmen Mena from Spain. Carmen is a Rotary exchange student. Bill thanked the board for making Carmen’s stay successful.
A student from Thailand will be arriving in August for the next semester. Bill talked about how families can be a host family. The board thanked Bill, the Rotary and the Host families.
Mackenzie Softball Field
Bill said the board needed to look at a way to help Mackenzie field since Green Mountain’s softball team plays on the field at no cost. Joel said some work is being done and they are starting to receive small donations. Discussion ensued regarding written and unwritten agreements for the girls to play softball. The board feels if funds are given to the field then they will need a written agreement. Alison made a motion to support the Mackenzie field repairs in the amount of $25,000.00 with a written agreement for the use of the field in the future for the Green Mountain Softball League. Motion approved. The superintendent’s office will prepare an agreement.
Principal Report
Tom reported the 7th grade students wrote essays to the secretary of state on the subject of voting rights and responsibilites and three Green Mountain students received honorable mentions: Tommy Knockenhauer, Molly Verespy and Macy Prescott.
Mrs. Carafiello and the middle school students presented student service projects. Tom thanked Mrs. Carafiello. The Booster club had a breakfast to recognize Teacher Appreciation Week.
Superintendent Report
Linda Waite spoke about last night’s presentation at Green Mountain. David recognized Teacher Appreciation Week.
Committee Reports
Facilities/Finance
Library Renovation Project
Arne reported the library project is moving along. There is a slight delay with the furniture. There is a need to expend $6,300 for roof repairs. An estimate was received for a built in projector and screen in the common area of the library. A grand opening for the Library Commons is planned for June.
The fire hatches have been installed. The trees next to the building were discussed.
Policies
Acceptable and Responsible use of Electronic Resources & the Internet G:12 – First Read-Geralyn handed out copies of this policy with revisions and highlighted what changes were made.
The Use of Restraint and Seclusion F:26 – First Read-This is a new policy which is recommended. The Special Education Director recommended this policy be adopted.
WSWSU
Alison reported there is an anticipation of a surplus in the budget.
The full SU board appointed Linda Waite as the Superintendent for next year. All of the funding for the merger has been approved by the Legislature. The State board of education is meeting next week in Bennington and they anticipate the board approving the merger. There will need to be three new board members for the new SU. Alison said we are the first SU to have a RED and a SU merger in the state.
Public Comment
Katie and Ashley handed out a petition to the board for Mr. Kelley’s return.
Alison made a motion to recess until 7 p.m. Motion approved.
Executive Session – (Personnel Hearing)
Alison made a motion to go into executive session at 7:00 p.m. for a personnel hearing for the purposes of hearing the non renewal of Ms. Franks and to invite Mr. David Adams, Mrs. Linda Waite, Mr. Tom Ferenc, Mr. Mike Ripley, Ms. Deborah Franks and Ms. Kelley Brennan. Motion approved. The board came out of executive at 9:10 p.m. The board will submit a written decision regarding the hearing.
Other Business
None
Adjournment
Alison made a motion to adjourn. Meeting adjourned at 9:15 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Virginia M. Walsh Mack
Recording Secretary
____________________________________________________________________________________
Green Mountain Union High School
Green Mountain Union High School Board Meeting
Thursday, April 12, 2012, 5:30 p.m.
Green Mountain Union High School – Conference Room
Unapproved Minutes
Present:
Board: Bill Bourque-Chair, Alison DesLauriers-Vice Chair, Arne Jonynas, Geralyn Donohue, Dr. Bont, Mark Huntley, Ginger Roper and Katie McNally-Student Representative
Administration: David P. Adams-Superintendent, Tom Ferenc-Principal and Mike Ripley-Assoc. Principal
Public: SAPTV, Virginia Walsh Mack, Mike McCarthy, Joel Gomez, Stuart Lindberg and Kyle Rogsted.
Call to Order
Bill called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m.
Approval of Minutes of March 29, 2012
Alison made a motion to approve the minutes of March 29, 2012 as presented. Motion approved.
Hiring Report
David gave the board a list of the spring coaches and an after school tutor that have been hired.
Public comment: Joel Gomez-representative of the Chester Softball League reported on the Chester softball fields. The ball fields were severely damaged due to the tropical storm. He said the league allows the GM soft ball team to use the facility free of charge. Help is needed to help rebuild the facility. He is asking the board to help them out in some way. Discussion ensued regarding resources and grants. Bill asked for this to go on the next agenda to discuss how the Green Mountain board can help.
Student Representative Report
Katie introduced Emily Guerra-Student Representative. The NHS induction will be May 2nd at 5:00 p.m.; chorus and band will be competing on May 18th, and the Pops Concert is May 24th.
Mark Harwood recited a poem.
Principal Report
Tom reported there will also be an Art Show at Green Mountain on May 24th. Report cards are going out today. Student government has created a climate survey and they will present the results at a later meeting. The library is progressing.
Superintendent Report
On Monday, April 16th there will be a school board training at Green Mountain at 6:30 p.m. The board received a copy of the 2012-2013 school calendar. Tom Ferenc has been awarded the Met Life NASSP Vermont High School Principal of the Year Award. The board congratulated Tom. Tom thanked everyone.
Committee Reports
Facilities/Finance
None
Library Renovation Project
None
Policies
The Acceptable and Responsible use, and Restraint and Seclusion policies will be on the next agenda.
WSWSU
The executive committee met and will be recommending to the full SU Board that Linda Waite be appointed Interim superintendent
Public Comment
None
Executive Session – Mark made a motion to go into executive session at 6:00 p.m. to discuss personnel and to invite Bob Fletcher-Attorney. Motion approved. The board came out of executive session at 6:15 p.m.
Personnel
Appeal of Employee Suspension
Bill informed the board this appeal hearing has been requested by Mike Kelly and the hearing is in open session at Mr. Kelly’s request.
Mr. Adams was sworn in. Mr. Adams is recommending the dismissal of Mr. Kelly on the grounds of insubordination. Mr. Adams submitted exhibits 1 and 2 (Attached). Mr. Adams called Tom Ferenc-Principal as his first witness. Mr. Ferenc was sworn in and gave his title and background. Mr. Adams submitted exhibit 3 and 3A (attached). Mr. Adams called Mike Ripley-Associate Principal as a witness. Mr. Ripley was sworn in and gave his title and background. Mr. Adams submitted exhibits 4, 4a, 4b, 4c, 4d and 4e (Attached) and asked Mr. Ripley to identify the exhibits. Mr. Adams questioned Mr. Ferenc and Mr. Ripley. Mr. Adams asked Mr. Ferenc to identify exhibit 5 which he submitted along with exhibits 5a, 5b, 5c, (attached) and Exhibits 6, 6a, 6b, and 6c (attached). Mr.
Adams respectfully requested the board uphold his recommendation to terminate Mike Kelly from employment at Green Mountain Union High School. Bill said the hearing is concluded.
Alison made a motion to go into executive session at 6:58 p.m. to discuss personnel and to invite Bob Fletcher-Attorney. Motion approved.
The board came out of executive session at 7:20 p.m.
Recommendation for Employee Termination
Bill said the board would submit a written decision in accordance with the collective bargaining agreement.
Other Business
None
Adjournment
Alison made a motion to adjourn. Meeting adjourned at 7:21 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Virginia M. Walsh Mack
Recording Secretary
____________________________________________________________________________________
Green Mountain Union High School
Green Mountain Union High School Board Meeting
Thursday, March 29, 2012, 5:30 p.m.
Green Mountain Union High School – Conference Room
Approved Minutes
Present:
Board: Bill Bourque-Chair, Alison DesLauriers-Vice Chair, Arne Jonynas, Geralyn Donohue, Dr. Bont, Mark Huntley, and Ginger Roper
Administration: David P. Adams-Superintendent, Tom Ferenc-Principal, Mike Ripley-Assoc. Principal
Public: SAPTV, Virginia Walsh Mack,
Call to Order
Bill called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m.
Approval of Minutes of March 8, 2012
Alison made a motion to approve the minutes of March 8, 2012 as presented. Motion approved.
Executive Session
Dr. Bont made a motion to go into executive session at 5:35 p.m. to discuss personnel and invite the administration. Motion approved. The board came out of executive session at 6:15 p.m.
Personnel
Professional Staff Contracts Renewal / Non-Renewal
David gave the board his recommendations for the FY’13 contracts.
Alison made a motion to approve the FY’13 professional contracts as presented. Motion approved.
Alison made a motion to non-renew Deb Franks’ contract as per article 4.2 of the collective bargaining agreement between the Green Mountain Board of School Directors and the Windsor Southwest Education Association. Motion approved with Geralyn abstaining. Geralyn asked if this vote was a conflict of interest for Arne. The other board members and administration feel this is not a conflict of interest. Alison said this has been addressed in the past.
Library Project Update
Tom passed around the drawings of the library to the board. David said the recommendation from the administrative team is to add the soffits and wanes coating around the pillars. The project will be completed as planned. The construction should be finished before the furniture arrives. The circulation desk was discussed. The desk is considered a capitol improvement because it is a permanent structure. Information regarding the library is on the Green Mountain website. Dr. Bont thanked the committee for their hard work.
Other Business
None
Adjournment
Mark made a motion to adjourn. The meeting adjourned at 6:30 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Virginia M. Walsh Mack
Recording Secretary
____________________________________________________________________________________
Green Mountain Union High School
Green Mountain Union High School Board Meeting
Thursday, March 8, 2012, 5:30 p.m.
Green Mountain Union High School – Conference Room
Approved Minutes
Present:
Board: Bill Bourque, Alison DesLauriers, Arne Jonynas, Dr. Bont, Geralyn Donohue, Ginger Roper, Mark Huntley and Katie McNally
Administration: Tom Ferenc-Principal, David Adams-Superintendent, Mike Ripley-Associate Principal, Lauren Baker-Director of Technology and Integrated Instruction.
Public: SAPA-TV, Virginia Walsh Mack, Ashley Carafiello, Heidi Howard, Julia Howard, Mona Distefano, Randy Distefano, Diane Thompson, Judy Verespy, Mark Verespy, Connor Verespy, Angie Wunderle, Scott Wunderle, Molly Verespy, Tuckerman Wunderle, and Julie Walton
Call to Order
David called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m.
Board Reorganization
David asked for nominations for Board Chair. Alison made a motion to nominate Bill Bourque as Board Chair. Seconded by Geralyn. Motion approved. David turned the meeting over to Bill. Bill asked for nominations for Vice Chair. Geralyn made a motion to nominate Alison DesLauriers as Vice Chair. Seconded by Arne. Motion approved. Bill asked for nominations for Secretary. Alison made a motion to nominate Geralyn as Secretary. Seconded by Dr. Bont. Motion approved.
Bill asked for three members of the board to represent Green Mountain on the WSWSU board. Alison nominated Geralyn, Ginger and Bill. Motion approved.
Alison made a motion to set the board meetings on the second Thursday of the month at 5:30 p.m. Dr. Bont seconded. Motion approved.
School Store Presentation by Seventh Graders
Tom introduced Ashley Carafiello, GM 7th grade Social Studies Teacher, Molly Verespy, Tuckerman Wunderle, and Julia Howard, GM 7th grade students.
The students said they took a survey to get input on times for the store to be open and what inventory they should carry. They presented their plans for the space they would like to use for the store. The students also presented a budget. They would like to open the store in the spring. Geralyn asked where the room is located. The store would be on the third floor next to the library. She also asked who would run the store. The students are talking about either having the middle school students or just the 7th grade students run the store and they would run the it through 12th grade then auction it off. Ashley explained the Chester Academy Grant. The board thanked the students for their presentation.
Budget Vote
Bill thanked the voters for their support of the budget. He said Langrove, Londonderry, Peru and Weston have passed a vote to form a RED. Mount Holly and Ludlow had a non binding vote regarding the potential merger with WSWSU and there was a positive vote for the merger.
Approval of Minutes of February 9, 2012 and February 28, 2012
Alison made a motion to approve the minutes of February 9, 2012 and February 28th as presented. Correction: 2/9/12 minutes: The policy committee is working on the internet use policy. Motion approved with correction.
Personnel
Administrative Contract Renewals
The board agreed to move this item to the end of the agenda.
Finance
Request for Use of Medicaid Funds to Maintain Academic/Mentor & Summer Leadership Programs: Attached. Geralyn made a motion to approve the use of Medicaid Funds to maintain the Academic Mentor and Summer Leadership programs. Motion approved.
School Choice Agreement
David said there is a limited public choice agreement. The GM board has entered into this agreement for the past few years. There is a local policy that sets the number of students at 16. There is preferential language in the policy that the board needs to make a decision on. David said the number of applicants exceeds 16. The protocol is to use a lottery. This matter has created reason for review by the state board of education. The board can use a lottery system or look at the current policy.
There are 13 applicants for six slots. 6 current eighth grade students are enrolled and one upper class man. There are 10 total applicants after some students withdrew. The board could consider including all of the students who applied. The board discussed their options. Ginger made a motion to allow the six eighth graders currently enrolled, and one upper classman for a total of twenty choice students. Motion approved.
Student Representative Report
Katie reported spring sports practices are beginning. Katie Bourque came in 2nd place in the VT State Championship Down Hill Skiing competition. The two plays this spring areThe Pajama Game and Homework Eats Dog, and Other Woeful Tales.
Principal Report
Achievement Gap Analysis
Tom recognized Conner Verespy, Keith Corliss and Josh Frye as students of the month at RVTC. Tom gave the board copies of the Journalism class newspaper. Tom said they are tightening the process regarding the online courses. Teacher conferences are scheduled for Thursday, March 15, from 12:15 to 7:30 p.m.
Tom introduced Julie Walton, GM Math Teacher. Julie discussed the achievement gap analysis (Attached). Areas for concern are 11th grade math, and 11th grade writing. Geralyn asked about looking at all of the levels of proficiency. Julie said this analysis shows the proficiency levels. The staff has been comparing boys and girls to the overall cohort. There is a reverse gender gap in 11th grade math; boys scored better. Socioeconomically disadvantaged students scored higher. Julie said the gender gap is closing. The 7th grade students preformed very well in math and reading.
Tom reported the departments continue to implement their focus areas. Two new courses being introduced are Introduction to Robotics and Wilderness Literature. Tom said he will provide the analysis with all proficiency levels. The board thanked Julie for the presentation. David thanked Tom, Julie and the teachers for the work they have done.
Superintendent Report
David thanked everyone for supporting the budget. The math requirements for K-12 will be presented. There will be a training on April 16th, 6-9 p.m. in Chester for the Essential Work of School Boards. Ginger asked about the date for graduation. The board discussed the options. Ginger made a motion to set graduation day on Friday, June 15th. Motion approved.
Committee Reports
Facilities
Library Renovation Project: Arne reported there is a meeting scheduled tomorrow to finalize the furniture choices. Alison suggested a student representative may attend a meeting. Tom said the students have interviewed him regarding the renovation and he is planning on giving the students a presentation. David gave the board a memo regarding the furniture bid.
Policies
• Enrollment of Children of Non-Resident Teachers F:35 Rescind
• Enrollment of Children of Non-Resident Teachers F:14 Second Read
Geralyn gave background on the policy. Geralyn made a motion to amend policy F:14 and rescind policy F:35. Motion approved.
• Acceptable Use of Electronic Resources and the Internet G:11 First Read: Geralyn said the name of the policy is changed to Acceptable and Responsible Use of Electronic Resources and The Internet. Geralyn gave background on the policy. This policy will be on the agenda for adoption at the next meeting.
WSWSU Report
Alison said the executive committee accepted David’s resignation with regret. David thanked the board.
Public Comment
None
Executive Session
Alison made a motion to go into executive to discuss personnel and to invite the administration at 6:50 p.m. Motion approved. The board came out of executive session at 7:45 p.m. No action taken.
Other Business
None
Adjournment
Alison made a motion to adjourn. Meeting adjourned at 7:45 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Virginia M. Walsh Mack
Recording Secretary
____________________________________________________________________________________
Green Mountain Union High School
Green Mountain Union High School Special Board Meeting
Tuesday, February 28, 2012, 6:00 p.m.
Green Mountain Union High School – Conference Room
Present:
Board: Bill Bourque-Chair, Alison DesLauriers-Vice Chair, Arne Jonynas, Geralyn Donohue
Administration: David Adams-Superintendent, Tom Ferenc-Principal, Mike Ripley-Assoc. Principal and Meredith Austin-Business Manager
Public: Virginia Walsh Mack-Recording Secretary
Unapproved Minutes
Call to Order
Bill called the meeting to order at 6:03 p.m.
Library Renovation Project
Library Bid Awards-David gave the board a copy of the bid results for the furniture and the air conditioning (attached). Meredith went over the bid process. The administration is recommending the board award the bid to School Specialty at a figure not to exceed $90,000.00. The board discussed the details of the bid. Alison made a motion to authorize the administration to enter into a contract with School Specialty for the library commons furniture in an amount not to exceed $90,000. Arne seconded. Motion approved.
Arne discussed the air conditioning bids with the board. He said there were differences in the size of the systems. Arne recommends the board approve cooling the whole space including the offices and classrooms. Geralyn made a motion to authorize the administration to enter into a contract with Cool Connection for the air conditioning in an amount not to exceed $27,040 from the capitol improvement fund. Arne seconded. Motion approved. Discussion ensued regarding the construction piece of the renovation and the reallocation of existing funds in the current budget to fund what the capitol improvement fund will not.
Other Business
None
Executive Session
None
Adjournment
Geralyn made a motion to adjourn. Meeting adjourned at 6:36 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Virginia M. Walsh Mack
Recording Secretary
____________________________________________________________________________________
Green Mountain Union High School
Green Mountain Union High School Board Meeting
Thursday, February 9, 2012, 5:30 p.m.
Green Mountain Union High School –Conference Room
Unapproved Minutes
Board Present: Bill Bourque – Chair, Alison DesLauriers – Vice Chair, Dr. Bont, Mark Huntley, Geralyn Donohue and Arne Jonynas
Administration Present: David Adams-Superintendent, Tom Ferenc-Principal, Mike Ripley-Assoc. Principal, and Meredith Austin-Business Manager
Public Present: SAPA-TV, Virginia Walsh Mack-Recording Secretary
Call to Order: Bill called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m.
Approval of Minutes
January 5, 2012
January 12, 2012
January 18, 2012
January 25, 2012
Mark made a motion to approve the minutes of January 5, 12, 18, 25, 2012 as presented. Motion approved.
Personnel
Non Certified Staff
Jennifer Huppe, Bus Driver
Student Representative Report
Katy reported: Students have concerns regarding the two bus routes that were combined. A student has to ride the bus longer than allowed and has to walk home farther than allowed. David said the goal has been not to have students on a bus for more than an hour. He asked for the student to discuss this with Mr. Ferenc and Mr. Ripley.
She reported on winter sports; students are having a hard time with online courses navigating through the site; the prom is May 19th at GM; Hannah Crocker, Monica Keith, and Emily Comstock –All States in Music.
Principal Report
Tom recognized the snowboard team and thanked Springfield S.D. and their Athletic Director for helping with the transportation; school choice: GM has three spots and twelve applicants-discussion ensued regarding how many students are accepted; Ski Tuesday afternoons are professional development-Teachers are working on Blended Learning with courses online; March 21st Green Mountain will host the Vermont Board of Middle School Professionals.
Tom shared the NECAP assessment results and was pleased that gains were made everywhere but one category. Geralyn asked about the gender gap. Tom said the gap remains with girls testing higher than boys.
Superintendent Report
David expressed kudos to the faculty and students for the test results. Citizens will get budget reports if they are requested. This method was voted on last year. There was a cost savings for printing. The legislature has revised Act 153. The House Education Committee has responded to the SU merger request. Changes: Eliminating barriers for districts merging and looking at the Special Education centralization.
Committee Reports
Facilities/Finance
Library Renovation Project- Arne gave the board a handout with some projected costs for the library renovation (attached). The total estimated cost of the renovation is $176,500.00. Discussion ensued regarding the timelines.
Library Flooring Bid Award
Meredith handed out her recommendation for the flooring bid award (attached). She recommends the board award the bid to Carpet King One for $20,308.00. Dr. Bont made a motion to award the flooring bid to Carpet King One in the amount of $20,308.00 and to authorize the administration to sign the contract. Motion approved.
Furniture bids are due the 22nd and will be opened that afternoon.
Policies
Geralyn reported the committee is working on the technical use policy and the policy in the packet will be brought for a first read next month.
Public Relations Committee – Budget Information
The board agreed to place phone calls to the community reminding voters to vote. Alison will also write a letter supporting the budget. SAPA-TV will be invited to the informational meetings.
WSWSU
Alison said the towns of Ludlow and Mount Holly will have a non-binding vote regarding the merger at their town meetings.
Public Comment
None
Executive Session
Alison made a motion to go into executive session to discuss personnel and possibly negotiations at 6:20 p.m. David and Tom were invited. Motion approved. The board came out of executive session at 7:07 p.m. No action taken.
Other Business
None
Adjournment
Alison made a motion to adjourn. Meeting adjourned at 7:07 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Virginia M. Walsh Mack
Recording Secretary
____________________________________________________________________________________
Green Mountain Union High School
Green Mountain Union High School Board Meeting
Wednesday, January 25, 2012, 6:30 p.m.
Green Mountain Union High School – Conference Room
Unapproved Minutes
Board Present: Bill Bourque – Chair, Alison DesLauriers – Vice Chair, Dr. Bont, Mark Huntley, Geralyn Donohue and Arne Jonynas
Administration Present: David Adams-Superintendent and Tom Ferenc-Principal
Public Present: Kelley Brennan, Mike Kelly, Norm Bartlett and Dina Attwood-Attorney (by phone)
Call to Order: Bill called the meeting to order at 6:30 p.m.
Executive Session
Alison made a motion to go into executive session at 6:30 p.m. to discuss personnel. Motion approved. The board came out of executive session at 8:20 p.m. Dr. Bont made a motion to deny the January 5, 2012 grievance heard tonight and issue the written order as discussed within 10 days. Motion approved unanimously.
Other Business
None
Adjournment
Alison made a motion to adjourn. Meeting adjourned at 8:23 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Virginia M. Walsh Mack
Recording Secretary
___________________________________________________________________________________
Green Mountain Union High School
Green Mountain Union High School Board Meeting
Wednesday, January 18, 2012, 6:00 p.m.
Chester-Andover Elementary School – Library
Unapproved Minutes
Board Present: Bill Bourque – Chair, Alison DesLauriers – Vice Chair, Ginger Roper, Geralyn Donohue
Administration Present: David Adams-Superintendent
Public Present: SAPA TV and Virginia M. Walsh Mack – Recording Secretary
Call to Order: Bill called the meeting to order at 6:08 p.m.
Approval of Annual School District Warnings
Bill reviewed the Warnings with the board.
Alison made a motion to approve the Annual Meeting, the Budget and Technology Reserve Fund and the Informational Meeting Warnings as presented. Motion approved.
Executive Session
None
Other Business
None
Adjournment
Geralyn made a motion to adjourn. Meeting adjourned at 6:13 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Virginia M. Walsh Mack
Recording Secretary
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Green Mountain Union High School
Green Mountain Union High School Board Meeting
Thursday, January 5, 2012 5:30 p.m.
Green Mountain Union High School – Conference Room
Unapproved Minutes
Board Present: Bill Bourque – Chair, Alison DesLauriers – Vice Chair, Ginger Roper, Dr. Bont and Arne Jonynas
Administration Present: David Adams-Superintendent, Tom Ferenc – Principal, Mike Ripley – Associate Principal, Meredith Austin-Business Manager, and Pam O’Neil-Director of Guidance
Public Present: Virginia M. Walsh Mack – Recording Secretary, Gary Baker, Mike Leonard, Amy Howlett, Mark Bodin, and Mark Curran
Call to Order
Bill called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m.
Executive Session
Dr. Bont made a motion to go into executive session at 5:30 p.m. to discuss personnel. The superintendent and principal were invited. Motion approved. The board came out of executive session at 7:10 p.m. No action taken.
Finance
FY’13 Budget
Alison went over the changes to the budget. Alison asked for any line item questions. The “Three Prior Years Comparisons-Format as Provided by DOE” form was discussed (Attached) which points out the decline in students. Meredith handed out a bar graph to show the impact on taxes.
Discussion: the decrease in revenues; feedback from the budget committee; possibility of putting a line item in the budget identified as “unspecified” which would be a dollar amount that would be reduced in the budget. Student spending equalized pupil spending, bottom line %; the S.U. merger; the decline in population; encouraging teachers to become dual certified; the library project; This budget has a 1.43% increase with a lot of good initiatives planned and Bill said he supports it. Arne said he agrees with Bill. Dr. Bont supports this budget. There needs to be structural changes in the future with the decrease in student population. The board plans to vote on the budget next week. The budget committee also supports this budget.
Federal Education Jobs Fund
The grant is for $78,338.00 to offset regular education salaries and benefits. This money is not being used for building renovations. Dr. Bont made a motion to authorize the administration to utilize the Federal Jobs Fund dollars for regular education teachers’ salaries and benefits.
Other Business
None
Adjournment
Alison made a motion to adjourn. Meeting adjourned at 8:23 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Virginia M. Walsh Mack
Recording Secretary
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Green Mountain Union High School
Green Mountain Union High School Board Meeting
Thursday, December 15, 2011, 5:00 p.m.
Green Mountain Union High School – Conference Room
Unapproved Minutes
Board Present: Bill Bourque – Chair, Alison DesLauriers – Vice Chair, Ginger Roper, Geralyn Donohue, and Dr. Bont
Administration Present: David Adams-Superintendent, Tom Ferenc – Principal, Mike Ripley – Associate Principal, Meredith Austin-Business Manager, and Lauren Baker Dir of Information Technology and Integrated Instruction
Public/Staff Present: Virginia M. Walsh Mack – Recording Secretary, Susan Renard, Gary Baker, Henry B. Mauti, Mike Leonard, Amy Howlett, Mark Bodin, and Mark Curran
Call to Order
Bill called the meeting to order at 5:37 p.m.
FY’13 Budget Discussion
The board took a tour of the library. Tom gave a presentation of what he is proposing for the new “learning common” (Attached). Lauren showed a video of what other schools’ libraries look like. The schools shown were slightly larger in population than Green Mountain but their library spaces were not very big. These are comfortable welcoming places. Susan Renard talked about the “standards” used for the 21st century learner and how to help students become self directed, be more responsible for their own learning and to be the center of learning. Dr. Bont asked if there is any data showing these schools with these new learning commons do better than students who go to a school with a traditional library. David said he thinks there is a shift in the
expectations of students. He said he does not know of any specific data. The library is a good start to create a more comfortable learning environment for students. Geralyn asked how they are going to get the teachers into this model. Half of their prep time will be scheduled to be spent with the tech integration specialist.
Meredith pointed out the changes in the expenditures from the last draft of the budget: Line 347-reduced to $1,500, line 405-reduced to $6,000, line 422-reduced to $95,000, line 426-reduced to $13,500.
Alison said there is a federal grant that is available to be used for teacher salaries and benefits which will allow for the budgeted local funds to support the library project. There are funds in the capital improvement fund that could be used for air conditioning and carpeting in the library.
Line 339 has hand held devices for all middle school students, line 326 will allow for a cart of mobile devices for students to check out from the library. Line 316 is for an assistant in the library which would be a school year position which would allow the librarian to perform more instruction. This budget has an overall increase of 1.72%.
Transportation was discussed. Geralyn asked about the truck. Tom said the truck is constantly used. Discussion: How to pay for a new truck and the possibility of financing it. Mark asked to show where the dollars were taken from for lines 327 and 365. Line 99 has a smart board, calculators and a projector. Mark asked where in the budget the sped costs going to the SU come from. Alison said they will work on showing where the costs were taken from.
Executive Session
Alison made a motion to go into executive session at 7:00 p.m. to discuss personnel. Motion approved. The board came out of executive session at 7:30 p.m. No action taken.
Adjournment
Geralyn made a motion to adjourn. Meeting adjourned at 7:30 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Virginia M. Walsh Mack
Recording Secretary
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Green Mountain Union High School
Green Mountain Union High School Board Meeting
Thursday, December 8, 2011 5:00 p.m.
Green Mountain Union High School – Conference Room
Unapproved Minutes
Board Present: Bill Bourque – Chair, Alison DesLauriers – Vice Chair, Ginger Roper, Arne Jonynas, Dr. Bont, Geralyn Donohue, Mark Huntley, and Katie McNally
Administration Present: David Adams-Superintendent, Tom Ferenc – Principal, Mike Ripley – Associate Principal, Lauren Baker-Director of Information Technology and Integrated Instruction, and Pam O’Neil-Director of Guidance
Public Present: SAPA TV, Virginia M. Walsh Mack – Recording Secretary, Allen Garvin-GM Science Teacher, Gary Baker, Mike Leonard, and Mark Bodin
Call to Order
Bill called the meeting to order at 5:00 p.m.
Approval of Minutes of November 10, 2011
Geralyn made a motion to approve the minutes of November 10, 2011 as presented. Motion approved.
Outdoor Wilderness Program Presentation
Tom introduced Allan Garvin, GM Science Teacher. Allan gave the board a slide presentation of his outdoor wilderness program. He and his wife Allie took six students on a 40 mile hike on the Long Trail this past summer. Allan said the students get a unique wilderness experience along with leadership and team building skills. Lilly said it was one of her favorite trips. She asked to be an assistant in Mr. Garvin’s class this year. Mark Harwood said it was a great experience. The board thanked Allan for the presentation.
Finance
FY’13 Budget First Draft
Alison went over the memo which hits the highlights of the budget. (Attached)
The budget has a 3.13% increase. They should have a revenue page next week.
Alison went over the line items that have been moved to the supervisory union. These costs will be assessed back to the schools. She went over the methodology of how the special education costs are assessed.
Tom went over the larger increases in the budget. (Attached memo) He said they have been fiscally responsible over the last few years. He said they are asking for an assistant for the library which will cost about $34,000.00. He talked about the renovation in the auditorium a few years ago. He said the public sees the auditorium, the gym and the learning common (library). He said the learning common should be a community space. He said the books in the library should be upgraded; they are not going away. He said timelines and video for the learning common will be presented at next weeks board meeting.
There is a need for a truck. The current truck will take approximately $5,000 to fix.
There is a computer lease increase to purchase computers for the middle school. Lauren gave background on increasing the lease.
Discussion ensued regarding where in the budget the costs for the learning common are; like the furniture for the learning common. The project should be combined to show the whole package. Geralyn asked about the truck and how we could pay for it. Tom said they will look into options for purchasing a truck.
Alison asked for questions regarding the budget. The special education costs that have moved from the GM budget to the SU budget will be the same cost as if these costs were to remain in the GM budget. Discussion ensued regarding the methodology used to assess SU costs back to the schools; the SU will use a direct cost assessment. The purpose of going to this model is to eventually share costs for services across the SU which should lower costs.
Inflationary costs are hopefully enough to enable the board to settle collective bargaining agreements.
Alison asked for people to give thought to this budget and listen to Tom’s proposal next week. Bill said there are some significant investments in this budget.
Lighting Grant Update
Mike said the lighting project is complete. $95,000 was spent on the project. Efficiency Vermont and the federal grant paid for the second phase of the project. GM spent $11,000 on the project. The board thanked Mike for his work on this project. Geralyn asked about the fuel cost. Alison said Meredith will come back with an answer.
Personnel
Co-Curricular Hiring Report
David informed the board of the co curricular contracts that have been issued. (Attached)
Public High School Choice Agreement – (Action Requested)
David recommended the board approve this choice agreement. There are no changes to this agreement. Geralyn asked about (c) on page 2. The sending district is responsible for excess cost associated with a student. Alison made a motion to approve the public high school choice agreement for the 2011-2012 school year as presented. Dr. Bont seconded. Discussion ensued. Motion approved.
Student Representative Report
Katie McNally: Winter sports are beginning; some students are going to a history symposium; the musical this year will be Chicago-auditions are on the 19th; the Pops concert is on the 13th. Students have concerns regarding Spanish classes III and IV being combined. Pam reported it was not planned this way. Tom said these are pacing and differentiation issues which are the responsibility of the teacher.
Principal Report
Tom welcomed everyone. He reported GM had parent teacher conferences last month; he said they are making a concise effort to get more parents to come in.
Tom said he and the AP teachers have been meeting and are looking into AP test scores and grades. The data is being looked at. He said the data is pretty consistent. They have two more meetings and he will come back with a report to the board. Grades and genders are being looked at. The second annual AP national honor role results were discussed; only one school in Vermont was listed. Tom said he would like to challenge the AP students more. Tom asked the board if he could give a presentation on the Library Learning Common. The board said they would like the presentation at the December 15th meeting.
Dr. Bont asked for data of students who go to college and how many of them stay. David said they will look into this. Geralyn said the AP study ties into the data Dr. Bont requested and she said if grade inflation takes place then the student will struggle in college. Arne said he would like to know what other students who do not attend college do as well.
Superintendent Report
David said he feels they have developed good assessment methodology for the budget. He said Green Mountain hosted the district music festival auditions. He gave kudos to the music department. He said the public will be well informed regarding Act 153.
Committee Reports
Facilities: Elevator Bids: Arne said they are planning on bringing the current elevator up to code. He said the project should not exceed $75,000. Arne made a motion to authorize the superintendent to go into a contract with Shindler to repair and bring the elevator up to code in an amount not to exceed $75,000.00. Motion approved.
Arne said the recommendations from the Fire Marshall will cost $12,500. Arne made a motion to authorize the superintendent to go into a contract to complete the recommendations from the Fire Marshall at a cost not to exceed $12,500.00. Motion approved.
Policies: Enrollment of Children of Non-Resident Teachers F:14: Geralyn informed the board this is a first read. Geralyn said the policy committee revised this policy. CTES has been added to the list. Students must have been enrolled in one of the schools this year and the parent must be under contract 100% this year. This policy will be on the next agenda for adoption.
The student tuition policy will also be looked at. Geralyn also talked about the policy regarding the age of students transporting other students to the tech center. She said our policy contradicts the tech center policy. Bill said this policy will be looked at.
WSWSU
On Wednesday, Dec 14th there will be a meeting at Ludlow Elementary School at 6:30 pm for the two supervisory union boards to vote on whether or not to move forward with petitioning the state board of education to re draw the supervisory union lines.
Public Comment
None
Executive Session – (Personnel)
Dr. Bont made a motion to go into executive session to discuss personnel at 7:00 pm. The superintendent and principal were invited. Motion approved.
The board came out of executive session at 7:45 p.m. No action taken
Other Business
None
Adjournment
Ginger made a motion to adjourn. Meeting adjourned at 7:45 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Virginia M. Walsh Mack
Recording Secretary
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Green Mountain Union High School
Green Mountain Union High School Board Meeting
Thursday, November 10, 2011 5:00 p.m.
Green Mountain Union High School – Conference Room
Approved Minutes
Board Present: Bill Bourque – Chair, Alison DesLauriers – Vice Chair, Ginger Roper, Geralyn Donohue, Dr. Bont and Arne Jonynas
Administration Present: David Adams-Superintendent, Tom Ferenc – Principal, Mike Ripley – Associate Principal, Meredith Austin-Business Manager, and Lauren Baker Director of Information Technology and Integrated Instruction
Public Present: SAPA TV, Virginia M. Walsh Mack – Recording Secretary, Amy O’Neil, Donna Allen, Cynthia Prairie, Chris Curran, Robin Varga, Paul Dexter, Marilyn Mahusky, Bruce Chase, Kerri King and three other members of the public
Call to Order
Bill called the meeting to order at 5:00 PM
Bill asked the board to take a moment to remember the Huntley’s and their son, former Green Mountain student, Spencer.
Approval of Minutes of September 15, 2011 and October 13, 2011
Geralyn made a motion to approve the minutes of September 15, 2011 and October 13, 2011 as presented. Motion approved.
M & M Excavating – New Quarry Permit Plan
Bill introduced Amy O’Neil from M&M Excavating. Amy gave background on the M&M Excavating business and background on the adjoining property to Green Mountain which they own. She read two court decisions regarding the 2001 permit for extracting and blasting. She said she and Mike have no intention to impact GMUHS. The state lifted the conditions for permits so the quarry was used due to the flood. The quarry was used 10 hours a day and 2 gravel crushers were used on the property.
During this time Amy walked around the school property and heard little noise. Adjustments were made to eliminate the noise. The state informed them they needed to close operations by November 15th. She invited board members and community members to come to hear the noise level. She said there was no noise. Amy is asking if the board has any issues. She gave the guidelines of the new permit. She is asking the board specifically if they would actively oppose any blasting at all at any time.
Bill asked if this is a new permit or an amended permit. Amy said she doesn’t know. There would be a time frame for the permit. Bill asked what is different in this request than the last one. They want to use the site cleared for the flood to do the crushing. Arne confirmed they are planning to request extracting 40,000 yards from 100,000 yards.
Arne said he couldn’t hear anything until he was about 100 yards from the property line and it was barely audible. He said the closer to the property line he got the louder the noise. He said he had been on Green Mountain Turnpike and he heard more noise.
Alison asked about the blasting and safety. Amy said she is not an expert. This is a question for the commissioners. Arne asked if the materials stay local. Amy said it is primarily used locally.
If the board is opposed to blasting, Amy said they will not submit a permit with blasting. The board asked what the long term effects for the school would be with blasting. Amy said they would supply that information. The board thanked Amy.
Comments: Chris Curran commended M&M for supplying the gravel during the flood. He feels the application was illegal and should not have been heard. This property is not zoned for mining and prohibits that property from being mined. The application was originally approved then turned down by the environmental board and ACT 250.
Kerri King said the O’Neils asked the Chester select board to write a letter of support to the GMUHS board. She presented the board with a statement that was signed by residents opposing the permit.
Marilyn Mahusky said Ms. O’Neil gave inconsistent information to this board that she gave to the town board. She said students with special needs could be affected differently than the general population. She is asking the board to oppose the request from the O’Neils.
The impact the dust from crushing could have was discussed.
Paul Dexter said he thinks the board did a good job. In 2006 the board unanimously opposed this project. Paul gave background on the history of this proposal.
A community member said she is concerned about the noise from a crusher that goes on for hours. She said some days she can’t hear the crushing and some days she hears it very clearly.
Mr. Otto said Ms. O’Neil misrepresented the final decision. He thanked the board.
Personnel
Custodian Retirement: Bill said Larry Childs is retiring in January. Larry has worked at GMUHS for 26 years. The board thanked Larry for all of his work. Arne made a motion to accept Larry Child’s retirement. Motion approved.
Co-Curricular Hiring Report: Attached
Finance
Preliminary Budget
Alison said the board will get a copy of a budget as soon as it is ready. She said it looks like the budget will not go down. She asked board members to email her some input on a budget increase. The finance committee would like feedback from the board.
Set Annual Non-Resident Tuition Rate
Meredith went over the tuition analysis. (Attached) Meredith recommends setting the FY’12 tuition rate for grades 7/8 at $11,000 and grades 9-12 at $12,000.
Alison made a motion to set the non-resident tuition rate for GMUHS FY’12 at $11,000 for 7th and 8th grade and $12,000 for 9th thru 12th grade. Motion approved.
Meredith gave the board a memo regarding the Federal Education Jobs Fund (attached). She said she will come back and make recommendations to the board. The board thanked Meredith.
Member to Member Athletic Agreement
Ginger made a motion to authorize the principal to sign the member to member athletic agreement with Woodstock Union High School. Motion approved.
Board Retreat Goals
Bill asked for input regarding the goals. Alison said she thought the past goals should be looked at to see what has been completed. Dr. Bont made a motion to approve the goals as presented. Motion approved.
Student Representative Report
None
Principal Report
Tom welcomed everyone. He commended Pam O’Neil, our Guidance Director for her work managing the news of Spencer Huntley’s death.
Tom reported the fall sports were a success and that he received the reports from the coaches; Parent teacher conferences are on November 17th; the state board of education sent a “Thank you” letter for allowing them to use GM for a state board meeting; Massie Prescott was featured on channel three news as part of a story about talented and gifted students; the first annual Cabaret went well; there is an in service for teachers tomorrow.
Superintendent Report
David added kudos to the entire guidance staff at GM and the SU counselors for coming together for the needs at the high school. He thanked Tom and the staff for hosting the state board of education. He said tomorrow will be a joint in service with staff from the Rutland Windsor S.U.
David attended a conference on the “common core” with English language arts teachers from Green Mountain.
Committee Reports
Facilities
Arne said they are working down the list. The roof hatches have been postponed until spring. He will update the board on the elevators at the next meeting. Dr. Bont asked about grants for solar energy. Arne said he will look into it.
Policies
Enrollment of Children of Non-Resident Teachers F:14 –Geralyn said it has been requested that this policy include CTES employees. She asked for a GMUHS separate policy meeting to discuss this at length regarding the language in the policy. The board agreed to have a meeting to discuss this.
Geralyn reported on the High School transformation presentation she attended with Tom, Pam, David and board members. She also went to the curriculum advisory committee meeting last week and Linda reported that the curriculum work is being documented in the schools.
WSWSU
Alison said the potential supervisory union merger has been the focus of the SU board.
Meetings: Wednesday, November 16th the completed analysis will be presented and at the December 6th meeting there will be a draft of the proposed merger. There will also be a vote at that meeting to move forward with the petition to the DOE.
Public Comment
A parent had a concern with the students being brought off campus to take the NECAP test. She didn’t think the American Legion was an appropriate place for the students to take a test.
Executive Session
Geralyn made a motion to go into executive session at 7:03 pm to discuss negotiations and legal matters. The superintendent was invited to attend. Motion approved. The board came out of executive session at 8:10 pm. Ginger made a motion to pay $50.00 for the booster club advertisement. Motion approved.
Other Business
None
Adjournment
Arne made a motion to adjourn. Meeting adjourned at 8:17 pm.
Respectfully submitted,
Virginia M. Walsh Mack
Recording Secretary
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
GMUHS School Board Retreat Agenda
Thursday, October 13, 2011
Green Mountain Union High School
Conference Room
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Unapproved Minutes
10:00 AM Welcome and Goals for the Day
10:40 AM - 1:00 PM Classroom Visits / Lunch
a.) Student Class Room Learning Experience
• From the student point of view, what do you think learning looks, sounds and feels like in class?
b.) GMUHS Board Member Experience
• What do you as GMUHS Board member hope to gain from this experience?
Bill reconvened the meeting at 1:15 p.m.
Walk Through Observation Form Feedback
If you used the Walk-Through Observation Feedback Form, what is your feedback on the learning that you saw? Dr. Bont said a lot has changed since he was in high school; he was impressed with the way teachers were engaged with students. The teachers involved the students. He thought it was a great experience.
Tom talked about the diversity in the school population. Mark said he had a lot of questions and opinions on his experience. He commented on seating, communication in the classroom, noise level, how the rooms were engaging and controlled, he liked the students working in teams, how the students were engaged, kids were kids; some interacted and some didn’t, some classes had low energy after lunch; not being sure of what is allowed and what isn’t, some classes were the benchmark of what he thinks a class should look like, 80% of the most engaged classrooms were girls, he saw a fair amount of learning, he said this process should be done more by the boards. Ginger said she looked at this more globally. There is a positive vibe in most of the classes she visited. She saw a lot of
technology; she didn’t think the advisories are necessary. Going to the classrooms was an added benefit to this retreat. She feels the board’s job is not to manage. Arne said he felt a positive vibe in the school and a good atmosphere to learn, the guides were great, he said the visit is a snapshot of what goes on in the school. He said this was a great idea and for the board to remember their role. Geralyn said she appreciated the opportunity to visit, she enjoyed her guides, she attended three advisories and her guide’s advisory was the only one that was engaging with the teacher and students. The middle school classes were engaged; students were actively engaged with each other. The high school classes did not have a lot of technology being used. Some teachers didn’t get up until she came in. The classes were rather small and not much going on. Out of 10 classes 5 were very engaged and 5 were
not. Alison said the guides were great with their positive energy. She did not get any negativity during her visit. The teachers were engaged with the students and were instructing. More than 90% of the kids were actively engaged in the classrooms she visited. In 5 out of 7 classrooms technology was being used. Kids were 50/50 in their opinions of advisory. A teacher said it gives them an opportunity to get to know students. Ginger said the teachers should be thanked. Bill said he came away with a renewed appreciation for what the teachers do. He said he questions the use of time in the advisories. The class sizes are small and he thinks that is great. He saw a lot of good things in middle school. 3 out of 5 high school classrooms were using technology. Overall he was impressed with the day.
David said the observations should be a macro look at the classes. He said if a board member would like to talk individually he and Tom would be happy to. He said one prevailing notion is a safe and orderly climate and it exists in this school. He said it is a credit to all who work at the school.
Green Mountain Union High School Transformation Update & Goal Setting
Gender Achievement Issues & Concerns: Tom gave the board handouts for discussion. There are five graduation outcome options that the administration has identified: Four year post secondary, two year, military, volunteer, and entering the work force. He spoke about teamwork and the student’s social emotional wellbeing. Geralyn asked about the gender gap issue. She asked if the committees have distilled the information. Tom said they have. David talked about setting goals. He encourages the board to stay focused. Geralyn asked about the handout regarding the A.P. scores that was given at a previous meeting. Tom said this is being worked on.
Disipline, test data and completion: Pam talked about the completion data from the state. GMUHS does not have a lot of students who do not graduate. Geralyn asked about how many students graduated last year. The board received an Event Completion and Cohort graduation rate handout (attached): Pam said there were three students who didn’t graduate last year. 97% of students who were promoted to 12th grade graduated last year. The high school completion program meets GM’s high school graduation requirements. Sometimes it takes longer for a student to graduate. The cohort graduation rate is a student who enters grade nine and eventually graduates. Discussion: Which classes boys are taking, the academic awards not having many boys receiving the
awards.
Linda discussed the science NECAP results (attached). The 8th grade and 11th grade science test scores went up this year. Geralyn asked what is being done about the gender issue. Linda said the administration ran a graduate science assessment course, teachers created a scope and sequence document, and all high school and middle school teachers developed a course objective document. For next year a best practices in science course will be offered all school year. Bill commented on the low scores. Discussion: College and workforce readiness: David said he feels we should raise the aspiration. Tom said the scores are alarming but it is something they are focusing on. Dr. Bont commented on the dropout rate in colleges and the huge transition from high school to college;
students need to take at least one college course in high school. David said we don’t have a full commitment in elementary schools for graduation completion. Dr. Bont shared a story about a teacher using an old car to teach students math and science which appealed to the boys in the class. Discussion: Everything comes back to literacy and a student needs it to succeed in all areas; raising the aspirations as a goal.
Mike went over the discipline referrals handout (attached). It is broken down by percentages. Some things that are being done to lower the referrals are school wide training and an academic mentor.
Technology – 1:1 Proposal
Lauren talked about the current reality and where they want to go in technology. 40% of students have technology at one time. The next steps to consider: the infrastructure, access, maximize the service level, continuing to build support capacity and every student having a technology device. Tom talked about anytime anyplace. Tom is asking to talk to Apple about a one to one initiative. Tom said it may be a product that they don’t know about yet. It is about each student having a device. The device would need to have access to the web. The request is for the board to support a one to one initiative to have each student have full time access to a mobile device. He would like the board to consider a commitment to this at some level. The board needs cost
information.
Susan shared a web based lesson with the board. http://pollev.com. Any browser will work to get connected then you type in a corresponding text code to answer the question. The responses go automatically to the live audience polling. The board answered questions regarding their experiences today and there was instant feedback. The board went to a website overview of Transformation and Technology and how it can transform all phases of technology. She said GM has derived our vision of transformation from the following sources: WSWSU Local education technology plan, VT dept of education vision of transformation, and transformation of education in VT.
GM is working on blended learning personalization and customization of curriculum by breaking down the walls so the learning can happen anytime/anywhere. The board saw websites that have been designed by teachers. These websites will be linked to the GMUHS website soon. The board participated in an assessment activity by creating a wordle.
Library/Media Center – Proposal
The board watched a video created by students from New Canaan High School on their library/media center. Mike Kelley went over the changes happening in libraries and what the role of a librarian is. GM has gone through a steady technological transformation in the last five years. The vision for the future of the library/media center: for Mike to broaden his teaching, to be more laptop friendly, to purchase kindles for access to thousands of books, to add new data bases and online services, promotions: having more attractive displays and revamp the libraries webpage, and possibly having facebook and twitter accounts, student committees have been created, the importance of the input from students. The board thanked Mike for his presentation.
Tom gave the board a proposal with the cost. The board looked at potential layouts of the library.
Middle School Focus – Name Change, Philosophy, 6th Grade
Tom thinks it would be beneficial to change the name of the school to Green Mountain Union Middle/High School. Suggestions: Having two different names for the school. People will still call the school Green Mountain Union High School. The board gave Tom the o.k. to look into this.
New England Association of Schools & Colleges – Value Added
Advisory – Common Time
Consensus is that the advisory needs something. It was the most talked about area and it was not very positive. Tom said he could support more instructional time. He and Pam will look at this. Students want the “break”.
Public Engagement – Website Development
Discussion: What do people see? Is there room for improvement? If we are pushing technology then our website should be better. How is it managed? A web hosting tool could be used; some are costly; the perception of the schools website makes a difference. To see more articles about Green Mountain in the local papers; to look at the mission statement.
Goal Summary
The board will email Bill.
Adjourn
Geralyn made a motion to adjourn. Meeting adjourned at 4:28 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Virginia M. Walsh Mack
Recording Secretary
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Green Mountain Union High School
Green Mountain Union High School Board Meeting
Thursday, September 15, 2011 5:00 p.m.
Green Mountain Union High School – Conference Room
Unapproved Minutes
Board Present: Bill Bourque – Chair, Alison DesLauriers – Vice Chair, Geralyn Donohue, Mark Huntley, Dr. Bont, Arne Jonynas and Katie McNally
Administration Present: David Adams-Superintendent, Tom Ferenc – Principal, and Mike Ripley – Associate Principal, Pam O’Neil-Director of Guidance and Lauren Baker-Director of Information Technology and Integrated Instruction
Public Present: SAPA TV, Virginia M. Walsh Mack – Recording Secretary and Paulette Martel
Call to Order
Bill called the meeting to order at 5:00 p.m.
Approval of Minutes of August 17, 2011
Alison made a motion to approve the minutes of August 17, 2011 as presented. Motion approved.
Personnel
Non Certified Staff
David went over the attached list of non certified staff that have been hired.
Nomination Special Educator/Opportunities Program
Alison made a motion to hire Harvey Keyes as a Special Education Teacher for the Opportunities Program as presented. Motion approved.
Finance
Driver’s Education Car Lease
David said they have the opportunity to lease a car for Drivers Education for 3years at a monthly rate of $269.96.
Arne made a motion to authorize the superintendent to sign the Drivers Ed car lease agreement as presented. Motion approved.
Library Media Center
Tom has brought some venders in this summer to look at the Library/Media space and give him schematics. They are moving programs to the library/media center and will also have a teaching librarian. He said this is a big project and it will need to be done in phases; he feels this is a five year project. He welcomes everyone to visit the Library/Media Center. Tom talked about the modifications that have already taken place.
Transportation Report
David thanked everyone who has worked to open the schools. All towns suffered damage; Cavendish has suffered the hardest; there has been limited bus service throughout the S.U. with none in Cavendish. He thanked parents for their understanding. The entire transportation system will be examined. David thanked Mike Ripley for his work in Cavendish and his support at Green Mountain.
Student Representative Report
Katie reported the music and theatre departments are putting on a cabaret for the Rotary at the NewsBank building on October 29th. Mr. Ferenc said Katie will be playing the piano in the lobby this evening for parents’ night.
Principal Report
Tom is asking the board for approval for the outdoor wilderness class to go on an overnight trip on the Appalachian Trail on October 7-9 and 21-23.
Dr. Bont made a motion to approve the outdoor wilderness class going on an overnight trip on the Appalachian Trail as presented. Motion approved.
Tom said the class will come to the next meeting to present video of the trips.
Tom talked about advisories and students preferences. Pam said the students make connections with their advisories.
Superintendent Report
David said in spite of “Irene” school opened successfully. He appreciates the efforts of the teachers and the support the counselors gave to the students throughout the district. We have lost 5 instructional days because of the storm. The administrators have come up with a plan to recoup the days by using in service days and possibly using the days before Thanksgiving and Christmas.
David asked the board for input regarding graduation. Tom said he thinks the graduation date should be set on April first not knowing what the winter will bring. Discussion: having days before holidays would not be productive days; getting input from the teachers regarding using the in service days; not reducing instructional days.
David asked the board for support while the administration works on the calendar. Arne said he thought choosing April first to determine graduation was a great idea. Alison asked about setting policy that says the Friday after the last day of school would be graduation. Dr. Bont made a motion that the graduation date will be set no later than April first. Mark seconded. Motion approved.
David will be at a state wide conference tomorrow. He will also be out next Thursday at a conference at UVM.
Committee Reports
Facilities
Arne reported the school faired pretty well during the storm; the doors and smoke hatches will go in at the end of the month; the electrical work has been completed; all blinds were installed and they are still trying to get bids for the elevators. The facilities committee will meet to discuss the elevators.
Policies
Geralyn gave the board a copy of the Financial Conflict of Interest Policy E:30 which was approved at the last meeting.
Acceptable Use of Electronic Resources & the Internet G:12 First Read
Geralyn said this policy is outdated. Alison asked for the differences in the current policy and the Department of Ed policy. The new policy covers more technologies that are taking place now. The possibility of changing the policy name to Responsible Use of Electronic Resources and the concern about personal information not being posted by students was discussed.
WSWSU
The executive committee has been discussing the consolidation. The voting members will be asked in October to vote on moving forward with the study. Next Wednesday night will be a joint meeting at 6:00 p.m. at CTES. The commissioner of education will attend the meeting for about 30 minutes.
Public Comment
None
Executive Session
None
Other Business
David said the board retreat was postponed until the next board meeting date during the day.
Adjournment
Arne made a motion to adjourn. Meeting adjourned at 6:02 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Virginia M. Walsh Mack
Recording Secretary
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Green Mountain Union High School
Green Mountain Union High School Board Meeting Minutes
Thursday, August 17, 2011 5:00 p.m.
Green Mountain Union High School – Conference Room
Attendees: Board members Geralyn Donohue, Ginger Roper, Dr. Gene Bont, Bill Bourque. Administration attending Principal Tom Ferenc, Assistant Principal Mike Ripley, Assistant Superintendent Linda Waite, Director of Technology and Integrated Instruction Lauren Baker, Superintendent David Adams. General Public Malcolm Summers and Dan Cote, Chester Rotary Club
Chair Bill Bourque called the meeting to order at 5:00PM
Geralyn moved to approve minutes of July 14, 2011. Passed unanimously.
Rotary: Dollars for Scholars Fundraising Presentation
Malcolm Summers and Dan Cote, Chester Rotary Club presented a fundraising proposal to support the arts and general scholarships on behalf of Green Mountain Union High School. The cabaret event scheduled for October 29, 2011 is intended to be a dinner with entertainment provided by HS students that highlights the outstanding performance program at GM. The entertainment is to be coordinated by Fritz Wendlandt and students will be asked to audition to perform. There will also be other community members involved in the performance. The event will be a dinner and take place at the Newsbank Conference center with the generous contributions of equipment and facilities of Newsbank. The event will feature a multimedia presentation and live entertainment. It is intended to be an adult event-fast paced and
fun. Individual tickets will be limited to 96 participates at a cost of $30 per individual. In addition, there is a fee of $250 per table- half of which have already been sold. There will be an additional live auction of 7 items. The proceeds are to be split 50/50 between the club and the school with the Principal directing the use of the funds for the arts. Rotary proceeds will go to scholarship funds. Mr. Summers invited board members and administrators to their weekly club meetings held each Thursday at 7 AM at the Fullerton Inn in Chester. Mr. Bourque thanked Mr. Summers and Mr. Cote for their support of school programs.
Personnel
a.) Non Certified Staff – (Informational)
The Superintendent informed the board of a change in hiring procedures for positions not requiring licensure by the Vermont Department of Education and handed out a memo detailing recent hirings.
b.) Special Education Teacher – (Action Requested)
Nomination Form to be Hand Carried
This nomination was tabled.
Finance
a.) Health Reimbursement Arrangement – (Resolution Requested)
Ginger Roper moved to adopted the Health Reimbursement Arrangement Resolution as presented to allow the Superintendent on behalf of the district to share information with a third party administrator managing employee health benefits. Motion carried unanimously.
Apple Lease Agreement – (Action Requested)
After discussion on a motion made by Ginger, the Board approved a three year lease to own agreement with Apple for the purchase of 21 desktop computers and 5 laptop kits containing 5 laptops each in an amount not to exceed $17,800.
VPA Member-to-Member Participating Schools Letter of Agreement – (Action Requested)
After discussion, on a motion made by Ginger Roper, the Board unanimously approved a VPA member-to-member participating school agreement with Bellows Falls High School and authorized Principal Ferenc to sign the agreement.
Gender Gap – (Discussion)
This matter was tabled for discussion until a future meeting when more Board members would be present.
Advisories – (Discussion)
Advisories are part of student schedules this year. This matter was also tabled for discussion until a future meeting when more Board members would be present.
School Start/End Time – (Discussion)
The matter of altering the start/stop time of the school day without prior Board discussion and approval was discussed. Superintendent Adams and Principal Ferenc identified that the intent of the change was to increase instructional time and improve outcomes for students. Both apologized to the Board for the impact sending out a letter informing parents of the change prior to the Board’s authorization for the change had on the process. Geralyn made a motion to keep the school/start time the same. Ginger abstained, Bill and Dr. Bont voted no, motion defeated.After extensive discussion regarding the need to examine the research related to middle and high school students capacity to learn at an early hour and concerns about the process of decision making without participation of the board, Dr. Bont moved
to change the start and stop time as presented by administration (adding 15 minutes to the instructional day -10 minutes before and 5 minutes after current times). The motioned carried by 3 to 1. Ginger Roper, Dr. Bont and Bill Bourque in favor. Geralyn Donohue opposed.
Transportation Report
Mike Ripley presented an update on his ongoing efforts to increase efficiency of bus routes in order to save transportation costs. He reported that he and CAES Principal Scott Gray traveled GM bus routes with Bruce Savory and himself in Londonderry, Chester and Andover and reported that his analysis to change the level of service did not conclude that there were additional opportunities for savings as one bus and run has already been eliminated and that even with changes to the location of designated stops student bus riding time for many students exceeds the 1 hour riding time used as one criteria. He reported that in his analysis student-riding time for some students has the potential to be between 1 hour and 10 minutes and 1 hour and 31 minutes. Bus driver time would also be increased but would be
under two hours (no change to current costs). A motion was made by Geralyn to direct the administration to find ways in cooperation with the Chester Andover School District to reduce the levels of transportation service on a trial basis and report to the board the impact of the changes to students and families at a future board meeting. Potential changes to levels of service include bus routes, stops and all aspects of the late bus. The motion carried unanimously.
Principal Report
a.) Exchange Students
Mr. Ferenc reported that the HS will host one female exchange student from Spain through the Rotary Club exchange program and two female students (one from Spain and one from Belgium) through the PAX organization. Mr. Ferenc reported that the exchange program benefits the school in many ways and for an example of the benefits, he pointed out that students in class communicated through Skype with a former exchange student from Egypt during the recent political turmoil there. Geralyn Donohue reported that the policy governing exchange students limits participation to four students and no more than two students will be accepted from any one specific sponsoring program.
b.) Opening Day Plans
Mr. Ferenc thanked the office administrative support staff for their return. Although staff cuts were made some time ago, the office is able to function and make ready for the school year. He personally has called 55 students to welcome them to the new year and new student orientation will take place on 8/29. He indicated that the building maintenance and work projects are coming along and all will be ready for the opening. With the exception of one special education position, all positions are now filled. Parent night will take place early in the fall and the date will be posted in school news on the school web site. He also indicated that Board members will receive a schedule allowing time to visit classes during the Board retreat scheduled for September 8th.
Superintendent Report
David Adams reported on the recent four-day administrative retreat, which included GM administrators Tom Ferenc, Mike Ripley and Pam O’Neil (for three of the days). Between 10 and 12 teachers also attended depending on the topic. Training included 50 Ways to Improve Student Achievement and the new teacher evaluation system based on the Danielson model. Superintendent Adams also reported on the recently posted elevator bids, which have been sent out to four trade journals, five contractors and three elevator companies. He described that he has learned earlier estimates were limited to the elevators themselves and did not include actual construction costs. He indicated that one contractor has expressed interest in meeting with the board and the cost estimator to explain the bid. A decision to do
this will be made after the bidding process is complete.
a.) Teacher Evaluation System
The development of the teacher evaluation system was described which included leadership from Principal Ferenc and Principal Walters and a committee of teachers. The elements of the annual system and Danielson’s research base were briefly reviewed. Board members expressed strong interest in the process and there was significant discussion concerning the rubric and proficiency scales. Some Board members expressed continued interest in rewarding teachers for strong performance. Superintendent Adams indicated that the opening in-service will be co sponsored with and presented by Vermont NEA and emphasized the positive aspects of professional development with the teachers association. Follow up training to principals and other administrators will take place in October with Vermont NEA. The
cooperation between teachers and administrators is important in the performance evaluation and professional growth of teachers. A commitment has been made to teachers to review this procedure at the end of the school year.
Committee Reports
a.) Facilities-None
b.) Policies
• Financial Conflict of Interest Policy E:30 – Adopt – (Action Requested)
Geralyn presented the Board with a copy of this policy revised to correct typographical errors. After a motion by Geralyn to adopt this policy, it carried unanimously.
c.) WSWSU
Public Comment
Lauren Baker asked if the proposed Rotary fundraiser would interfere with student participation of Young Americans. Mr. Ferenc reported that there is a three-week separation between the events and it would not.
Executive Session – (if necessary)
None.
Other Business
Superintendent Adams requested that he be authorized to conditionally hire a special education teacher to fill the current vacancy if possible by the start of the school year. Dr. Bont move to authorize the Superintendent to conditionally hire a special education teacher prior to Board approval. The motion carried unanimously.
Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 8:04 PM.
Respectfully submitted,
David Adams
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Green Mountain Union High School
Green Mountain Union High School Board Meeting
Thursday, July 14, 2011 5:00 p.m.
Green Mountain Union High School – Conference Room
Unapproved Minutes
Board Present: Bill Bourque – Chair, Alison DesLauriers – Vice Chair, Ginger Roper, Geralyn Donohue, Mark Huntley, Dr. Bont and Arne Jonynas
Administration Present: David Adams-Superintendent, Tom Ferenc – Principal, and Mike Ripley – Associate Principal
Public Present: SAPA TV, Virginia M. Walsh Mack – Recording Secretary and George Haines
Call to Order
Bill called the meeting to order at 5:00 p.m.
Approval of Minutes of June 9, 2011
Geralyn made a motion to approve the minutes of June 9, 2011 as presented. Correction under Principal report: Geralyn asked if failing students are still removed from the program. Motion approved as amended.
Personnel
Staff Recognition
Bill reported George Haines and Milan Cook, who are two long time employees at GMUHS are retiring and the board would like to recognize them for their work. The board hopes Milan will be able to attend another meeting.
Tom said George has been working at GMUHS for 34 years and has touched a lot of hearts at the school. He talked about George’s tenure at Green Mountain. George said he has enjoyed Green Mountain so much over his 34 years here. He thanked the board and Green Mountain.
Support Staff Memorandum of Agreement
The board agreed to discuss this after executive session.
Resignations
Claire Schroeder, the social emotional coordinator and Ted Rallis, bus driver have submitted letters of resignation. Alison made a motion to approve the resignation of Claire Schroeder with regret. Motion approved. Alison made a motion to approve Ted Rallis’ resignation/retirement with regret. Motion approved.
Nominations
Outdoor Leadership Program Coordinator: Tom recommends Allan Garvin as the outdoor leadership program coordinator with a stipend of $1,000.00. Geralyn made a motion to approve Allan Garvin as the Outdoor Leadership Program Coordinator as presented. Motion approved.
Special Education Instructional Assistant: Tom recommends David Bleuher as a special education Para professional for the 2011-2012 school year at an hourly rate of $13.16. Ginger made a motion to approve hiring David Bleuher as a special education Para Professional as presented. David Bleuher has worked in the Opportunities In Learning Program.
Alison clarified that under Act 153 the superintendent has the authority to hire all non licensed employees in the supervisory union without needing board approval. David said that is correct and he wanted to discuss this change with the board chairs. Alison said she would hope the superintendent would inform the boards of these hiring’s but they will not need board approval.
Motion approved.
Co-Curricular Reports: The reports were included in the board packets and reviewed by the board. Alison said she didn’t think the reports need to be printed; that they are just informational.
Finance
Bid Awards: Arne reported the elevator bids that came in were very high and they are trying to get more companies to bid.
Arne reported they need two sets of fire doors: he is requesting a motion for an amount not to exceed $6,000.00 for the fire doors. Geralyn asked what they have to compare this bid to. Arne said they have had other fire doors replaced.
Arne reported they need two smoke hatches in the auditorium; he is asking for a motion not to exceed $20,000 to the smoke hatches. Geralyn asked where these projects are advertised. Arne said they advertise locally and in trade publications. Arne made a motion to approve the bids for the Fire Doors not to exceed $6,000 and the Smoke Hatches not to exceed $20,000, and to use funds from the capitol improvement fund. Motion approved.
Set Date & Time for Board Retreat
The board agreed to have the retreat on Thursday, September 8th at GMUHS. The time to be determined but will be sometime around noon.
Transportation Report
Mike reported on the Green Mountain bus routes. He looked at the number of routes they currently have and looked at how they might consolidate some of them. Discussion ensued: why aren’t there pick up and drop off points; the busses are not full; the fact that there are also elementary students riding the busses; consider clustering stops which would mean changing the level of services; the Cavendish run is being condensed from three runs to two. The board thanked Mike for his work on this. Mike said the bus lease will be reduced next year because they will have a full size handicap accessible bus which will allow for all students to ride. The board agreed to have the administration look into consolidating the stops.
Student Representative Report
None
Principal Report
Tom said there is a lot of work being done in the building; the lighting project, some new window treatments, and classrooms are being cleaned. He said the new staff have been coming in and doing some work in their classrooms. Summer school is ending next week. He has met with Wayne Flewelling the new Special Education Director regarding co teaching. Tom attended the American Library Association (ALA) conference in New Orleans, La. and said he would like to give the board a presentation regarding the library and how to meet the needs of 21st century students. He went over some of the changes he would like to make in the library/media center. Discussion: This is a good time to review the librarian’s job description; Tom has had four companies come and measure the library and is
waiting for more recommendations. The board agreed to have Tom give a presentation on the library/media center.
Tom presented the board with some of the test scores that were requested. Geralyn would like to see the results broken down by gender. Geralyn discussed how important it is to look at the differences in gender performance. This will go on the next agenda. Geralyn said she is working on looking at this state wide. Tom thanked the board for their continued support with the library/media project. Dr. Bont talked about the studies regarding the start time of school for teenagers.
Superintendent Report
David recommends the board hire Kelli O’Connor as the academic mentor for the 2011-2012 school year; she will be replacing Karli King. David said there are still dollars available in the grant for a portion of this position and he would like the board to approve using Medicaid funds to support the remainder of the position not covered by the grant. Geralyn made a motion to hire Kelli O’Connor for $18.00 per hour as the Academic Mentor for the 2011-2012 school year and for the board to authorize the additional Medicaid funds needed to support this position. Geralyn said she thinks this is a great position and it helps prevent students from “falling through the cracks”. Motion approved.
David said the administrators are attending a four day retreat this month which will include professional development and trainings for the administrators.
David said the administration is working on professional development for middle school teachers.
Committee Reports
Finance
Alison said the books are being closed for the fiscal year.
Facilities
Facilities was covered earlier in the meeting.
Policies
Financial Conflict of Interest Policy E:30: First Read: Geralyn said this policy came from a corporate model then the policy committee worked on making it specific to the district. This policy will go on the next agenda for adoption.
WSWSU
Appointment of Supervisory Union Consolidation Study Committee Member:
Alison said the executive committee met and had discussions regarding the consolidation. The first part of the study will have to be “floated” by the boards. The cost would potentially be $1,500.00 for each of the WSWSU schools. The board agreed to appoint Bill Bourque as the committee member for the consolidation study.
Public Comment
None
Executive Session
Alison made a motion to go into executive session at 6:27 p.m. to discuss negotiations and to invite the administration. Motion approved.
The board came out of executive session at 6:35 p.m. Alison made a motion to approve the Support Staff Memorandum of Agreement as presented. Motion approved.
Other Business
None
Adjournment
Mark made a motion to adjourn. Meeting adjourned at 6:36 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Virginia M. Walsh Mack
Recording Secretary
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Green Mountain Union High School
Green Mountain Union High School Board Meeting
Thursday, June 9, 2011 5:00 p.m.
Green Mountain Union High School – Conference Room
Approved Minutes
Board Present: Bill Bourque – Chair, Alison DesLauriers – Vice Chair, Ginger Roper, Geralyn Donohue, Mark Huntley, and Katie McNally
Administration Present: David Adams-Superintendent, Tom Ferenc – Principal, Mike Ripley – Associate Principal, Lauren Baker-Director of Information Technology and Integrated Instruction
Public Present: Chris Rosengrant – SAPA TV, Virginia M. Walsh Mack – Recording Secretary and Mary Pelkey
Call to Order
Bill called the meeting to order at 5:04 p.m.
Approval of Minutes of May 12, 2011
Geralyn made a motion to approve the minutes of May 12, 2011 as presented. Motion approved.
Finance Report
Elevator Bid Award –
David reported there were a number of labor and compliance issues with the elevators. Board approved bids went out and there were no bids received. The administration will continue the process of seeking bids for the project. An architect may be needed.
Bank Borrowing
Alison reported the Business Manager’s recommendation is to borrow from Merchant’s bank. (Memo Attached)
Alison made a motion to go back to a lump sum borrowing with Merchant’s Bank for the FY’12 year. Motion approved.
Budget Transfer to Capital Improvement Fund
Alison reported GMUHS anticipates a surplus of approximately $200,000. She said a portion of the surplus can be moved to the capitol improvement fund so the dollars can be used for the building improvements that need to be made. Arne made a motion to transfer $125,000 from the general fund to the capitol improvement fund. There is a lengthy list of improvements that need to be made to the school. Discussion ensued regarding the potential cost of the improvements. Motion approved.
Personnel
Resignations – Bus Driver, Para Educator
Bill reported Maria Merceica gave the board a letter of resignation. Ginger made a motion to accept the resignation of Maria Merceica. Geralyn said the letter should be discussed and acted on after executive session. The board agreed.
Barbara Crawford has given a letter of resignation.
Alison made a motion to approve the resignation of Barbara Crawford with regret. Motion approved.
Nominations – Biology Teacher, Special Education / Opportunities, Custodian
David reported the nomination
Biology Teacher: Theresa DeLorenzo; nomination form included with agenda. Geralyn made a motion to accept the nomination of Theresa DeLorenzo for a .83 FTE Science position for FY’12 in the amount of $38,526.00. Discussion ensued regarding her licensure. David explained her Vermont license lapsed while working in Florida but did not see any issues with getting her Vermont license renewed. Motion approved.
Special Education Teacher: Sally Yazwinski; nomination form included with agenda. Geralyn asked about the lack of experience of this candidate. David said she has experience working in the type of program she will be working in. Alison made a motion to hire Sally Yazwinski as a Special Education Teacher in the Opportunities Program for a salary of $44,008.00 for the FY’12 school year. Motion approved.
Custodian: Gerald Gilman; nomination form included with agenda. Arne made a motion to hire Gerald Gilman beginning July 1st at an hourly rate of $12.97. Motion approved.
Leave of Absence Request
John Yake wrote a letter requesting a leave of absence for the first semester of next school year to complete his student teaching. Alison made a motion to approve the leave of absence for John Yake as presented. Motion approved.
Season Updates -Sophomore Class Advisor, Middle School Play, Student government,
David reported on the season updates for co curricular contracts.
Principal Report
Year End Activities
Tom asked the board to consider an overnight field trip for the track team for this weekend. Tom is asking the board to approve the coach taking 6 students to Burlington for a track meet. Alison made a motion to approve 6 students going to Burlington overnight for a track meet with Jon Rice, track coach. Motion approved.
Tom handed out two nomination forms for summer school math and language arts teachers. Geralyn asked if the math position must have a certified teacher. Tom said no but they tried to get a certified teacher. This is a four week program. Alison made a motion to approve hiring Norm Merrill as the summer school language arts teacher and Sam Jonynas as the summer school math teacher. Geralyn asked if the students are still removed from the summer school classes after two weeks. Tom said they do not do that anymore.
Motion approved.
Tom handed out a report on test scores that the board requested. He went over some of the data. Tom reported on the end of year activities. Tom reported the Senior Awards has been a tradition at GMUHS; there are 50 plus awards given out. Tom said the school paper will go paperless unless a paper copy is requested.
Mike R. reported on the Tech Center awards. (Attached)
Katie McNally reported on student activities at GMUHS; senior trip, sports, moment of silence for gay, lesbian, bisexual transgender day, and the spring concert.
Katie read letters from some Spanish 3 class students and a parent. Alison said these issues should be brought to Jeff Renard.
Superintendent Report
Education Job Funds Grant Summary
David handed the board an overview of education jobs fund from the DOE school finance team. (Attached).
Committee Report
Facilities
Arne reported there will be a savings in electricity and oil costs this year.
Policies
Geralyn reported the SU policy committee met on June 3rd and are working on a number of policies. The boards discussed the Students of Non Resident Teachers Policy; F-14. The board discussed opening the policy up to CAES, CTES, and GMUHS employees; GMUHS member districts. There is staff interest in this policy.
WSWSU
David reported on Tuesday night the boards of WSWSU and RWSU agreed to a motion to go into a study to look at combining the two Supervisory Unions to provide efficiency. The final authority will be up to the State Department of Education. David said the VT School Boards Assoc report will be on the S.U. web site. Discussion: this study is only to address the Supervisory Union Offices and not any of the schools.
Public Comment
None
Executive Session
Geralyn made a motion to go into executive session at 6:13 p.m. to discuss personnel and to invite the administration. Motion approved.
The board came out of executive session at 6:42 p.m.
Geralyn made a motion to approve the resignation of Maria Merceica. Motion approved.
Other Business
Geralyn said she is concerned about the achievement gap between girls and boys. She requested an examination of data regarding gender differences and the affect of Power School grading system on achievement.
Adjournment
Arne made a motion to adjourn. Meeting adjourned at 6:50 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Virginia M. Walsh Mack
Recording Secretary
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Green Mountain Union High School
Green Mountain Union High School Board Meeting
Thursday, May 12, 2011, 5:00 p.m.
Green Mountain Union High School – Conference Room
Board Present: Alison DesLauriers – Vice Chair, Geralyn Donohue, Arne Jonynas, Mark Huntley, Ginger Roper, and Katie McNally
Administration Present: David Adams - Superintendent, Tom Ferenc – Principal, Mike Ripley – Associate Principal
Public Present: Chris Rosengrant -SAPA-TV, Virginia Walsh Mack-Recording Secretary
Call to Order
Alison called the meeting to order at 5:02 p.m.
Health & Wellness Presentation – Dr. Steve Reville
David reported Dr. Reville is unable to attend.
Approval of Minutes of April 14, 2011
Geralyn made a motion to approve the minutes of April 14, 2011 as presented. Corrections: Page 2 policies: add “Geralyn reviewed the policies that are being looked at by the WSWSU executive policy committee”, Page 2 principal report item C: graduation end of year. Tom met with Scott and Jennifer Repinski, from Flood Brook Union School. Minutes approved as amended.
Personnel
Academic Mentor Position Resignation Letter- David asked the board for consideration and action. Tom reported on the grant he received for this program. The current Mentor is resigning and he is looking for a replacement. Arne made a motion to accept the resignation from the academic mentor position. Motion approved.
Technical Education Teacher- David said he would like to recommend Tim Elsasser for the position of Technical Education Teacher. Geralyn asked if this is a position we want to keep since there are not many people getting degrees in this field. Tom said they are sensitive to this and this candidate is skilled in other areas and has a Masters degree. Tom said they want to link this course to project based learning. Mark made a motion to hire Tim Elsasser as the Industrial Arts teacher for the 2011-2012 school year as per the Negotiated Agreement. Motion approved.
Special Education Copier Lease Renewal
David gave the board a memo from Meredith Austin-Business Manager recommending the board approve the proposed copier lease with OCE Cannon for a Cannon immagerunner 3230 in the amount of $1,635.48 per year to include 30,000 copies for four years with a $.0045 per copy overage charge, and authorize her to sign the documents. Ginger made motion to approve the proposed special education copier lease and authorize the Business Manager to sign the lease agreement. Motion approved.
Lighting Phase II Bids
Arne reported on the two bids that were received for phase II of the lighting project. Mike said the funds will come from Efficiency Vermont and the remainder of the grant they already have. Arne made a motion to approve and accept the bid from Lawrence & Lober Electric at a cost of $47,640.00 and authorize the Business Manager to sign the agreement. Motion approved.
Student Representative Report
Katie reported on the testing that is taking place; the middle school play, the MS semi-formal; the junior prom; the Art show and pops concert. Dates attached.
She along with other students attended workshops to learn about different types of oppression. She thanked Claire Schroeder for brining these artists in residence to the school.
Principal Report
Manner Scholarship- Tom asked the board to engage in discussion regarding the Manner Scholarship. The scholarship was created when a Green Mountain student died in an accident. Tom said there is no documentation as to exactly how the money was meant to be spent. They have a $7,000.00 CD that has been dormant for years. He is asking the board to allow him to use this for scholarships for students to go to basketball camp and purchase a banner for the 1000 point scorers club. Ginger made a motion to allow Tom to buy a banner for the basketball 1000 point scorers club using funds from the Aaron Manner scholarship fund. Motion approved. Geralyn said she would like this scholarship to be used to help students attend college. Alison said they have talked about this and the
fund is small. Tom said they are looking for criteria for this fund. The administration will continue to look into this.
Tom gave the board a copy of the end of the year activities (attached). This list is posted on the website. Discussion ensued regarding the 8th grade celebration on June 16th.
He said the Senior citizens come to Green Mountain the first Wednesday of the month for a lunch that the students serve and clean up.
The hiring process is under way for the open positions.
On June 1st Maddie Thomas (grade 7) and Casie Walton (grade 8) will be going to Norwich University as Green Mountain’s Middle School Scholar Leader Award winners' sponsored by the New England League of Middle Schools and the Vermont Association of Middle Level Educators. Tom said they are very proud of them.
The newsletter will be paperless next year. It will be available on the web site unless a paper copy is requested.
Alison asked about some reporting on AP classes and SAT scores. Geralyn said they should look at the grade from the teacher and the AP test score and compare them. She thinks this should be looked at. Discussion ensued.
Superintendent Report
David recognized Katie for her report. He thanked the Green Mountain Community for hosting the WSWSU Semi-annual meeting. He thanked Linda Waite for putting the State of the District Report together.
Legislative Action: They did not make many changes to Act 153. They extended some of the mandates to July 1, 2013. The governance of the board of education will not change. David will be out of the district from May 27th through June 3rd.
Committee Reports
Finance
Alison said the finance committee met to look at the year end; it looks like there is a nice surplus; a lot of the savings is in the Opportunities Program. The business office is rechecking the numbers. The elevator bids are due May 17th; Alison asked if there can be a meeting on May 23rd at 5:00 p.m. to discuss this. David asked the board to allow for some potential hiring to take place at this meeting. The board agreed.
Facilities
Arne said they had eight interviews for the custodian position and they have selected two candidates for David to interview.
Policies
Geralyn gave the board the revised FMLA policy. She reported the WSWSU executive policy committee met last Friday. She said the committee is working on the Finance Conflict of Interest policy. This policy should come to the next meeting for a first read. The committee also looked at the Title I parent Involvement policy. The Asbestos policy was tabled until the next meeting.
WSWSU
Alison reported the Semi annual meeting went very well and was focused on education. WSWSU and RWSU have met again and Winton Goodrich from VSBA and Vaughn Altemus from the Vermont Department of Education attended. They discussed creating a new S.U. Discussion ensued regarding how this might happen. Each S.U. board would vote and it would have to be approved by the state board of education. The next S.U. meeting will be June 7th at CTES at 7:00 p.m. David said the school board association is supportive of this discussion and will be looking at the fiscal savings of eliminating one of the S.U.s. Conversation is about the opportunities and not the barriers.
Public Comment
None
Executive Session
No need
Other Business
None
Adjournment
Geralyn made a motion to adjourn. Meeting adjourned at 6:06 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Virginia M. Walsh Mack
Recording Secretary __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Green Mountain Union High School
Board Meeting Minutes
April 14, 2011 5:00 p.m.
Board Present: Bill Bourque – Chair, Alison DesLauriers – Vice Chair, Geralyn Donohue, Arne Jonynas, Gene Bont, Mark Huntley, Kuniko Hunter, Katie McNally
Administration Present: David Adams - Superintendent, Tom Ferenc – Principal, Mike Ripley – Associate Principal
Public Present: Chris Rosengrant -SAPA-TV, Anne Kipp, Henry Dent, Christian Avard – Rutland Herald, Julie Ladieu Walton, Jon Rice, Lauren Baker, Janet Currier –Recording Secretary
Call to Order : Bill Bourque – Chair called meeting to order at 5:02 p.m.
Approval of Minutes of March 10 2011: Geralyn moved approval of minutes, Alison seconded.
Board approved minutes as presented.
Personnel: Nominations: a) Middle School Baseball Coach – Paul Dexter for a salary of $1,209.00. Assistant Track Coach – John Yake for a salary of $2,246.00. Arne moved hiring Paul Dexter and John Yake as presented. Board approved.
b) Letter of Retirement – Kathy Poston – Para Educator – Bill Bourque read letter from Kathy requesting approval of her retirement for personal reasons. Alison moved acceptance and expressed appreciation for Kathy’s years of service at Green Mountain. Gene Bont seconded. Board approved.
c) Season Updates – Varsity Cheerleader……Snow Sports…….Drama Club……. Bill said that letters regarding these activities were mailed with the agenda packets for board information. No action required.
Student Representative Report: Kuniko Hunter said the National Honor Society members volunteered at Chester-Andover Elementary School. They helped the younger student’s plant seeds and they talked about Biology with the students.
Katie McNally reported that the Interact Club is organizing the 5k race to take place on Alumni Day and the seniors will be doing dodge ball soon. She said the District play which was written by Green Mountain students went to States at Springfield and the play received kudos.
a) Student Survey Results 2010-2011: Anne Kipp introduced student Henry Dent who presented the results of the survey. Henry said that for the past 4 years the Student Government has conducted a student survey. He reviewed results of the past surveys and compared past results to this year’s survey. He talked about the different survey categories and some of the differences over the years.
Henry then read a statement/recommendation from the Student Government regarding Advisory Period. He then gave the board and administration copies of the survey and Student Government statement. A discussion of the survey results followed.
Principal Report: b) Tom Ferenc began with Adequate Yearly Progress Report and asked the board members to follow along with the paperwork he provided them in their packet folders. Tom then asked Julie Ladieu Walton – Green Mountain Teacher – to review the information on Annual Yearly Progress (AYP). Julie told the board that the packet includes information on what the GM staff is planning to do to correct the fact that GM did not meet AYP this year. The board
was informed that 216 Vermont schools did not make AYP this year because the bar rose considerably this year.
a) School Based Health Clinic - Tom said that Dr. Steve Reville came to GM and gave a
presentation regarding School Based Health Clinics. David Adams said they would like the board to consider having a part-time school based health clinic at Green Mountain hopefully to include dental. He would like to have this on future agendas. This is a federal program. The board agreed this should be on future GM agendas.
c) Graduation End of Year – Tom reviewed an end of year list of events and dates. He gave copies of the Green Mountain Times newspaper to the board. Tom told the board that he met with Scott and Jennifer Repinski, from Flood Brook Union School regarding using Green Mountain to present a play as the Weston Playhouse is under renovations. The play should be presented the first part of May. Tom reported that the first Wednesday of every month a Senior Citizens luncheon is served at Green Mountain. The 7th and 8th graders serve the seniors. He invited the board to attend these luncheons.
Superintendent Report: David gave kudos to the students and staff who were involved in the most recent GM play. He said he laughed all throughout the play and everyone did an awesome job.
David informed the board that the WSWSU Director of Special Education – Jackie McCuin has given her resignation to be effective June 30th. He then distributed copies of the school calendar to the board. He reviewed the calendar and stated he feels this will be a very productive calendar to follow. Discussion of professional days took place – Bill said he thinks that these days should be done during school breaks instead of school days. David gave the board a report on ACT 153 implementation status. He said he would be happy to answer questions once the board has a chance to review this report.
Committee Reports: a) Facilities- Arne said that bid requests are out on the second phase of the lighting upgrade and they are due back April 28th. Arne said that Milan Cook one of our GM Custodians is retiring at the end of the school year. So far we have 7 applications and are hoping to hold interviews next week. He said we have received only one bid on the bus for sale and that was basically for salvage. Arne said the custodian advertisement was only run on School Spring and he feels that it should have been in local papers as well.
b) Policies: Geralyn reviewed the policies that are being looked at by the WSWSU executive policy committee. She did not have any thing to present to the board at this meeting.
c) WSWSU – Election of Supervisory Union Representatives – Bill said that the board needs to elect three board members to attend the S.U. full board meeting to represent GM in voting. Alison nominated Geralyn Donohue, Arne Jonynas and Bill Bourque to represent GM at the S.U. full board meeting. Gene seconded. Board approved.
Alison reported that the three supervisory union meeting was held earlier today at Okemo. It was a fairly productive meeting and they will meet again in a couple of weeks. She feels the next meeting will be just Windsor Southwest and Rutland Windsor only.
The WSWSU full board meeting will be held on May 4th here at Green Mountain. At 4:30 p.m. a training on Act 153 will be held with a dinner at 5:45 p.m. and the Semi-Annual meeting will begin at 6:30 p.m.
Arne said that he had a conflict on May 4th and resigned his position as a GM representative.
Alison made motion to reconsider the first appointment of GM representatives for the S.U. full board meeting and to rescind the appointments previously made. Alison made motion to appoint Geralyn Donohue, Mark Huntley and Bill Bourque to represent Green Mountain. Gene seconded. Board approved new appointments.
Public Comment: None.
Executive Session – Personnel: Alison made motion to enter Executive Session at 6:37 p.m. to discuss personnel and to ask the administration to stay. Board approved.
Board came out of Executive Session at 7:17.
Other Business: None.
Adjournment: Arne made motion to adjourn at 7:18 p.m. Board approved.
Respectfully submitted,
Janet Currier
Recording Secretary
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Green Mountain Union High School
Unapproved Board Minutes
Thursday, March 10, 2011, 5:00 p.m.
Present
Board: Bill Bourque – Chair, Alison DesLauriers – Vice Chair, Arne Jonynas, Ginger Roper Mark Huntley and Geralyn Donohue, and Kuniko Hunter
Administration: Tom Ferenc- Principal, David P. Adams-Superintendent Linda Waite-Asst. Superintendent, Mike Ripley-Associate Principal and Lauren Baker- Director of Technology and Integrated Instruction
Public/Staff: Virginia Walsh Mack, SAPA TV, Anne Kipp, Pam O’Neil, Katy McNally
Call to Order
Bill called the meeting to order at 5:00 p.m.
Board Reorganization
David asked for nominations for the Board Chair. Alison made a motion to nominate Bill Bourque as Board Chair. Mark seconded. Motion approved.
Geralyn made a motion to nominate Alison DesLauriers as Vice Chair. Mark seconded. Motion approved.
Alison made a motion to nominate Geralyn as Board Clerk. Mark seconded. Motion approved.
Alison made a motion to hold the board meetings on the second Thursday of the month at 5:00 p.m. Mark seconded. Motion approved.
Budget Vote Review
Bill thanked the voters of Chester, Andover and Cavendish for supporting the budget.
Approval of Minutes of January 13, 2011 and February 10, 2011
Geralyn made a motion to approve the minutes of January 13, and February 10, 2011 as presented. Motion approved.
Reduction In Force
Bill reported as part of next year’s budget they have made a reduction in the science staff.
Alison made a motion to reduce a section of science by .17 FTE in accordance with Section 15 of the collective bargaining agreement. Arne seconded. Motion approved.
Personnel Nominations
Bill read the names and positions of the spring coaches for approval in accordance with the collective bargaining agreement.
Scott Renfro-J.V. Baseball Coach, Eric Anderson-Varsity Baseball Coach, Hannah Parker-Varsity Softball Coach, Mike LeClair-J.V. Softball Coach, Theresa Buskey-M.S. Softball Coach, Jon Rice-Varsity Track Coach, Kris Lefevre-MS Track Coach, George Haines-Varsity Golf Coach.
Alison made a motion to approve the spring coaching contracts as presented. Geralyn seconded. Alison said it is nice to have the contracts before the season begins. Motion approved.
Introduction of New Student Representative
Kuniko introduced Katie McNally, Student Representative; Katie is a sophomore at GM and was elected on February 18th as the student representative to board. Tom and Anne Kipp welcomed Katie.
Katie reported: The snow board team came in first place in the state championships; Katie Bourque came in 12th in the skiing championships; The girl’s basketball team made it to the quarter finals and the boy’s lost in the first round of the finals.
Kuniko reported the guidance department will offer one hour workshops run by students from different clubs to get students interested and involved in the community.
NECAP Update
Tom handed out the 2010 NECAP Report. Linda explained and discussed the test results. She had the board break into groups of two and work on an exercise comparing scores. Areas discussed include: increasing the performance of male students; the gender issue; socioeconomic status.
Alison said she would like to see other measures to look at; it would give another picture of performance. Discussion ensued regarding how seriously students take the test. Geralyn asked why the exercise is focusing on proficient and above students. Linda said the exercise is to help the board understand the test scores when looking at them on their own.
Tom talked about strategies teachers came up with to bring the scores up; summer school, remediation, MAPS test, putting the scores on transcripts and report cards, rewards, directives, incentives and privileges to students. Mike added by letting the students know that the staff is taking the tests seriously and letting the students know how important the tests are.
Tom read what the science department is doing to prepare for the tests. Geralyn asked how the teachers feel about the gender gap. Tom said he feels the teachers are concerned about this issue. David said the S.U. has a guest speaker who is a reading specialist coming to present to the staff. The board thanked Linda for her presentation. Bill asked the administration to come up with strategies prior to the next testing.
Principal Report
Tom reported Mr. Hill’s sociology class is planning on going on a field study class trip to New York City. Tom asked for board approval. Alison made a motion to approve the overnight class trip as presented. Arne seconded. Motion approved.
He said Soren Arvidson an 8th grade student has qualified to represent our school at the state level in the National Geographic “GeoBee” which he is preparing for with Mr. Hill.
Tom said the following students have received the RVTC “Student of the Quarter “Award: Casey Wentz-Culinary Arts I program; Anne-Marie Jones-Culinary Arts II program; Alyssa Farrar-Health Careers II program.
Tom gave the board copies of the Green Mountain Gazette and the Green Mountain Times.
Tom talked about the forum that was held last month. Mike said he received positive feedback about notification of events happening at GM.
Superintendent Report
David thanked the board for the test score discussion. He thanked the voters for supporting the budget and said they will be working on the school safety improvements. David welcomed Katie to the board. David explained how and who is involved in determining school closures.
He reported the legislature is working on the single payer health bill. They will also be dealing with a budget short fall. The House rescinded the two vote Bill and it will go to the Senate.
There is a Bill to change the Commissioner of Education’s position to a cabinet level position as the Secretary of Education.
David said the National Labor Management conference he Alison, and Jenn Harper, Union President, attended in Denver last month was a very good conference. Discussion ensued regarding the end of the school year with all the snow days we have had and how it will affect graduation. David said he would like to report on this at the April meeting.
Committee Reports
Facilities
Arne said the projects that were discussed are in process. He thanked Meredith, Mike and Bruce for their help.
Policies
Geralyn welcomed Katie to the board. She reported the policy committee met and is working on the Asbestos Policy and the Conflict of Interest Policy.
Optimum Class Size Policy-Distribute Adopted Copies
The board received copies of the policy.
Curriculum Development, Coordination and Evaluation Policy-Rescind
Geralyn made a motion to rescind the Curriculum Development, Coordination and Evaluation Policy. Alison seconded. Motion approved.
Curriculum Management Policy-Adoption
Geralyn made a motion to adopt the Curriculum Management policy as presented. Mark seconded. Motion approved.
Family Medical Leave Act-Adoption
Geralyn made a motion to amend the Family Medical Leave Act Policy as presented. Changes: Item 4 articulates how much of the 12 week leave time is paid. Mark seconded. Motion approved.
The board thanked Geralyn for her hard work.
WSWSU
Alison said the executive board received a report on their audit which was a clean audit with no findings. The committee is also looking at policies.
Full S.U. meetings will now have set dates: The first Wednesday in May at 6:30 p.m. and the third Wednesday in January at 6:30 p.m.
Public Comment
None
Executive Session
None
Other Business
Jack Carroll has asked for authority to dispose of milk cooler. David asked for approval to dispose of a milk cooler. Ginger made a motion to approve disposing of the milk cooler. Arne seconded. Motion approved.
The administrators are looking into bus routes.
Adjournment
Mark made a motion to adjourn. Meeting adjourned at 6:41 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Virginia M. Walsh Mack
Recording Secretary
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Green Mountain Union High School
Approved Board Minutes
Thursday, February 10, 2011, 5:00 p.m.
Present
Board: Bill Bourque – Chair, Alison DesLauriers – Vice Chair, Arne Jonynas, Dr. Bont, Geralyn Donohue, Mark Huntley and Kuniko Hunter-Student Representative
Administration: Tom Ferenc- Principal, David P. Adams-Superintendent and Mike Ripley-Associate Principal, Lauren Baker-Director of Information Technology and Integrated Instruction, Meredith Austin-Business Manager, Pam O’Neil-Guidance Director
Public/Staff:
Virginia Walsh Mack, SAPA TV, Susan Renard, Mike Verillo, Don Murray and Jeff Renard
Call to Order
Alison called the meeting to order at 5:01 p.m.
Approval of Minutes of January 18, 2011
Dr. Bont made a motion to approve the minutes of January 18, 2011 as presented. Correction: Geralyn’s name correction to Donohue. Motion approved as amended.
Minutes of January 13th will be on the next agenda.
Financial Audit Report from Auditors
David introduced Don Murray from Fothergill Segale & Valley Certified Public Accountants. Don went over the GMUHS 2009-2010 audit and the management letter with the board. Discussion: regarding depreciation opposed to fair market value. They found no deficiencies in the audit. The books are in good shape. Don said the process went well. He talked about “early retirement payments” and not processing the payments through payroll; his company recommends the business office follow the recommendations of the IRS. Meredith said this year’s payments went through payroll.
Policies and procedures: Don recommended there be written procedures in place; Meredith has already drafted a manual for the business office.
Don said the audit was fiscally sound. The board thanked Don.
Presentation – Vermont Virtual High School
Alison introduced Jeff Renard from Vermont Virtual Learning Cooperative; Jeff is the Program Coordinator. Jeff gave the board a presentation on virtual learning. He talked about Availability, Accessibility, and Flexibility. He talked about the online courses his company offers; he said the course listing is already outdated because new schools are joining VTVLC all the time; right now there are 33 participating schools with almost 400 students state wide. They will be adding middle school courses next year. Discussion: allowing students to move ahead; 1/2 credit courses; Tom talked about the steps the board has already made by raising the passing grade, writing personal learning plans, the technology integration specialist, and electronic learning. Pam said VTLC courses will
be offered to GMUHS students just as the courses at the tech center are offered. Training teachers is very important: The teachers will complete a course in online teaching and then they can apply to be lead teachers. Jeff said this is a more fiscally responsible way to continue to offer courses. Students can receive different forms of content; videos, books and audio. Pam said students who take an online course have time blocked out for them during the school day to have access to a computer.
Alison said she thinks we have a responsibility to require students to take an online course as part of the graduation requirement. The board thanked Jeff.
FY 12 Budget Discussion
Bill said what the board did last year to promote the budget worked well. Bill gave the board members call lists so they can remind families the evening before voting day. AlertNow will send a reminder message to vote. Alison will write a letter as the finance committee chair that will go in The Message.
Principal Report
Tom welcomed everyone. He thanked the board for their commitment to technology. He said he would really like people to come out to the Community Forum. They need to hear from the parents and community members. Parent’s night will be right before the forum Thursday, February 17th. Tom talked about the Green Mountain Times; Green Mountain’s News Paper.
Kuniko reported: She said the National Honor Society will be changing how they induct students; they will be inducting sophomores and juniors. The National Honor Society’s new advisor is Allie Oswald.
Alison reported GM has a ski team of one (Katie Bourque) and she came in fourth at her meet today. The board congratulated Katie.
Superintendent Report
David reported the teacher evaluation committee met today and will meet again on March 4th; David appreciated the input at today’s meeting. On March 3rd David will be hosting a forum at Green Mountain on Act 153 and Challenges for Change.
David will be out of the district four days next week attending the national conference on Advancing Student Achievement Through Labor-Management Collaboration with Alison, and Jenn Harper in Denver, CO; the expenses for this conference will be paid for by the U.S. Department of Education. David will remain in Denver for the Superintendent’s conference. The criteria of teacher evaluations were discussed.
Committee Reports
Facilities
Arne said they received a letter from the fire marshal giving Green Mountain 60 days to bring the elevators up to code; Arne is getting bids. The cost for one elevator will be 40 to 50 thousand dollars. The funds will come from the capital improvement fund. He said the committee would like to complete phase II of the lighting project.
Arne made a motion to approve phase II of the lighting project at an estimated cost not to exceed $65,000.00 with a $46,000.00 incentive from Efficiency Vermont and a $13,000.00 carryover from the federal grant leaving an approximate $6,000.00 balance to be paid from the capital improvement fund. Dr. Bont seconded. Motion approved.
Arne indicated that the other projects they need to work on are Smoke hatches: $20,000.00; Finish the voice evacuation system: $10,000; Fire doors: $2-3,000.
Policy
Curriculum Management Policy - 2nd Read- Geralyn asked this to be tabled until the next meeting so the board can rescind the current policy then adopt this CMA policy.
Geralyn said the policy committee met on January 4th and are working on a financial conflict of interest policy which was recommended by the auditors.
Family Medical Leave Act – 1st Read - This policy was warned for a first read on February 10, 2011. Geralyn went over the policy with the board.
WSWSU
Alison said Lauren presented a technology report to the WSWSU executive committee.
Linda reported on the Curriculum Management Audit Advisory Task Force and asked for people who are interested in serving on the task force.
Public Comment
Regarding the article in The Green Mountain Times, Dr. Bont said from his recollection either the board or the committee chose the name of the school and the mascot. The mascot was named to honor the Abanaki Indians.
Executive Session
None
Other Business
None
Adjournment
Geralyn made a motion to adjourn. Meeting adjourned at 6:45 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Virginia M. Walsh Mack
Recording Secretary
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Green Mountain Union High School
Approved Board Minutes
Tuesday, January 18, 2011, 4:00 p.m.
Present
Board: Bill Bourque – Chair, Arne Jonynas, Alison DesLauriers – Vice Chair (by phone), and Geralyn Donohue (by phone)
Administration: David P. Adams-Superintendent
Public/Staff: None
Call to Order
Bill Bourque called the meeting to order at 4:00 p.m.
Approval of Warning of Annual Meeting on February 22, 2011
Alison waived the reading of the warning and made a motion to approve the annual meeting warning as presented. Discussion ensued concerning 16vsa 563, Powers of School Boards regarding use of grants. Motion approved.
Arne made motion to approve the warning of the budget vote on March 1, 2011 in the amount of $5,450,298.00. Motion approved.
Other Business
None
Adjournment
Alison made a motion to adjourn. Meeting adjourned at 4:12 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Virginia M. Walsh Mack
Recording Secretary
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Green Mountain Union High School
Green Mountain Union High School Board Meeting
Thursday, January 13, 2011 5:00 p.m.
Green Mountain Union High School – Conference Room
Board Present: Bill Bourque – Chair, Alison DesLauriers – Vice Chair, Ginger Roper, Gene Bont, Geralyn Donohue, Mark Huntley
Administration Present: David Adams-Superintendent, Tom Ferenc – Principal, Mike Ripley – Associate Principal, Linda Waite – Assistant Superintendent
Public Present: Chris Rosengrant – SAPA TV, Bruce Savery, Mike Leonard, Norm Merrill, Janet Currier – Recording Secretary
Call to Order: Bill Bourque – Chair, called meeting to order at 5:05 p.m.
Approval of Minutes of December 9, 2010: Geralyn made motion to approve minutes with correction of spelling of her name on page 1 under Board it should be Donohue not Donahue. On page 3 under Policy, line 4, it should state: “outlines roles and responsibilities” Board approved minutes as corrected.
Personnel: a) Nomination – ESP Teacher: Bill asked the Board for approval of a nomination for Sharon Jonynas as a teacher at $28/hour for middle school students in the Educational Support Program that is paid for by Medicaid funds. Ginger moved to approve the nomination of Sharon Jonynas as an ESP teacher at $28/hour. Board approved unanimously.
b) Approval of Retirement letter: Milan Cook, a GMUHS Custodian submitted a letter of retirement to be effective June 30, 2011. Gene moved to accept Milan Cook’s letter of retirement. Bill thanked Milan for his years of service to Green Mountain and wished him good luck. It was stated that Milan would certainly be missed. The board approved the retirement with regrets.
Finance: a) Budget Transfer Request - * Food Service: David Adams said this issue has been taken care of.
Public School Choice Collaborative: David Adams said this program has been operating since the 2002-2003 school year and he would like the Board to approve continuing this grades 9-12 program. He said this will be advertised in the Vermont Journal and The Message early enough to get the information out to the public. Tom Ferenc said the program is also advertised on the Green Mountain website and the school newsletter. The cap to be accepted is 16 students. Gene made motion to approve the Public School Choice Collaborative agreement. Board approved unanimously.
Bill Bourque informed the Board that the Warnings for the Annual Meetings and Budget vote have to be approved. He reviewed the Warnings. Since they were not warned on the agenda a special meeting will have to be held for signing them. The three Warnings are as follows: 1) Annual Meeting Warning; 2) Public Information Warning; 3) Budget Vote Warning.
Bill said the significant change on the Annual Meeting Warning is to see if the voters will approve distributing the Annual Report by mail if requested but they would also be available by way of electronic posting on the school’s website or through email. As required by statute, a Notice of Availability will be provided thirty (30) days prior to the district annual meeting indicating the dates and locations that the school budget report will be available for those that request an alternative method of distribution.
Public Information Meeting: Bill said that the Public Information Meeting Warning is just to warn the meeting following the Annual Meeting so the public can get further information. The meeting will be held in the Conference Room instead of the Auditorium.
Budget Vote Warning: Bill said that the Budget vote will take place on March 1st, 2011 by Australian Ballot.
Principal Report: a) Request for Overnight Field Trip: Tom wished everyone a Happy New Year. He asked the Board for their approval for an overnight field trip for the Wilderness Program led by Allan Garvin. Alison made motion to approve the overnight field trip. Board approved unanimously.
Tom said that Monday is a Holiday for Martin Luther King Day and then beginning on Tuesday Final Exams will begin for the week. He asked parents to make sure their kids get plenty of sleep. He said that Guidance would be setting up new schedules for kids and parents should be involved as well.
Tom reported that the Library Committee would be meeting to look at transforming the Library into a media center/learning center.
Tom said that the students go skiing on Tuesday afternoons and the staff members use this time to do professional development. The staff has broken into committees to work on the School Action Plan.
Tom then talked about a couple of handouts he gave the Board. One is the Green Mountain Times, the school newspaper and the other is information on a History Symposium that the History Students are doing this evening throughout the school.
Superintendent Report: David Adams informed everyone that the work on the budget has been strong and he feels we have a good operating budget for next year. As budgets wind down he wants to be able to get out to the schools and into the classrooms. He hopes that a new teacher evaluation plan (that will be based on a one year evaluation cycle) will be completed and ready for next year.
Committee Reports: a) Facilities – Mike Ripley – Associate Principal – said the lighting project – phase 1, is done, has been inspected and has been signed off on.
b) Policy – Geralyn said the WSWSU Executive Policy Committee met on Friday. They discussed a Curriculum Management Policy and their proposal will be sent to all the Boards to be used as a guideline.
G-14 – Class size Policy – Geralyn made motion for adoption of this policy that is a mandatory policy. She said the Superintendent should be the person to set guidelines for class sizes in our supervisory union. Board approved policy.
G – 1 – Curriculum Management Policy – First Read – Geralyn said if the Board is willing to adopt this policy the current GM curriculum policy should be rescinded so that GM is in line with the supervisory union. This policy will be on the next agenda for adoption.
Alison asked to have a WSWSU Executive Committee Report added to the agenda under Committee Reports in the future. She told the Board that the Executive Committee met last week and set the agenda for the Semi-Annual full Supervisory Union Board Meeting. She said the S.U. Budgets would be adopted at this meeting instead of waiting until the spring meeting. She said there needs to be 3 people on the GM Board who would make the commitment to attend all WSWSU full board meetings. She said the S.U. merger issue would be discussed as well as several other items. The meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, January 21st at 6:30 p.m. at Cavendish Town Elementary School. Alison said the S.U. Budget is down 2%. She then talked about bill back services that have been added to the
budget but they will not affect the assessments. Next year all special education services in the S.U. will have to be added into the S.U. Budget as well because of Act 153.
Bill then asked for a presentation on Act 153 in the future.
Public Comments: None.
Facilities Tour: At 5:50 p.m. the Board and those present took a tour of the facilities led by Mike Ripley. The tour was to see the improvements that have been done and to see some areas that still need to be upgraded. Some of the areas that were viewed are as follows: Elevators, front entrance and front entrance doors, still to be completed, phase 1 lighting that has been completed and phase 2 lighting still to be done, holes in ceiling over stairwells that need repair, doors at top of stairwell out side of Library that need to be replaced, new Library lighting that is completed, new cafeteria and gymnasium lighting that is completed, cafeteria and gym ventilators that are being looked at for upgrades for replacement, new boiler that is in place, new GM emblem painted on wall in gymnasium, doors at entrance
to lobby outside cafeteria and gymnasium still to be replaced. Everyone then returned to the Conference Room for remainder of meeting.
Executive Session – Negotiations and Personnel: Alison made motion to enter Executive Session at 6:23 p.m. Board approved.
Board exited Executive Session at 6:56 p.m.
Other Business: None.
Adjournment: Geralyn made motion to adjourn at 6:57 p.m. Board approved.
Respectfully Submitted, Janet Currier – Recording Secretary
Green Mountain Union High School
Green Mountain Union High School Board Meeting
Thursday, December 9, 2010 5:00 p.m.
Green Mountain Union High School – Conference Room
Present:
Board: Bill Bourque-Chair, Alison Deslauriers-Vice Chair, Arne Jonynas, Ginger Roper, Dr. Bont, Geralyn Donahue
Administration: David P. Adams-Superintendent, Tom Ferenc-Principal, Mike Ripley-Associate Principal, Meredith Austin-Business Manager, Pam O’Neil-Director of Guidance
Public: SAPA TV, Virginia Walsh Mack-Recording Secretary, Bruce Savery, Gary Baker, Norm Merrill, Mike Leonard, Mark Bodin
Call to Order
Bill called the meeting to order at 5:00 p.m.
Approval of Minutes of November 11, 2010
Geralyn made a motion to approve the minutes of November 11, 2010 as presented. Motion approved.
Nomination - Spirit Coach (Cheerleading) – (Action Requested)
David asked the board to appoint Jessica Clay as the Spirit Coach for a salary of $2,246.00.
Alison made a motion to approve hiring Jessica Clay as the Spirit Coach as presented. Motion approved.
Finance
Appointment of Budget Committee Member
The board acknowledged the notice of resignation of Scott McNally and thanked him for his service.
Alison made a motion to nominate Mike Leonard as a budget committee member until the election in February. Motion approved
Budget
Alison reported: Spending will stay the same as it was at the last meeting. Some changes were made in industrial arts, special education, technology services, building repairs, tech center, and the math, science, social studies and language arts stipends.
The budget’s local portion is down 2.54% from last year, the overall spending is a 2.83% increase, and a .28% decrease in ed spending.
Green Mountain will not meet the 2% voluntary reduction in part due to the deficit.
The budget committee said they support the budget. Every committee member feels the board and administration did a very good job with the budget and the good decisions that were made. Special ed is always a question as well as the S.U. The budget presentation needs to be improved and be focused on education. The committee supported the budget unanimously. Tom thanked the committee. The committee appreciates the work that was done on this budget. Discussion ensued regarding the way the school report is published.
Transportation has not been discussed because the meeting with the company they were hoping to work with did not bring the information needed.
Alison made a motion to approve the FY’12 Green Mountain Budget in the amount of $5,450,298.00. Discussion: Bill thanked David and Meredith for their hard work on the budget. Motion approved.
Principal Report
Tom thanked Chris from SAPA TV for coming and welcomed the public.
Superintendent Report
Act 146 Challenge for Change Report to Commissioner
David said “thank you” to the budget committee and the administration for their hard work on the budget. He said Green Mountain focuses on a strong outcome for kids. David will report to the commissioner’s requirement.
David said the annual report can be expensive and he feels there could be a better way of getting the reports to the public. The budget process was unified.
Annual Reports
The goal is to save money on printing. The report can be mailed in a condensed version. To make that change there will be a vote at the annual meeting. This year the book can be condensed slightly. Discussion: The reports need to be in the book as well as the budget committee summary; the full budget will be available upon request; the possibility of a flyer with the whole report available, the state lets them know what is required in the report.
They could go to a summary format in the report and have the whole budget available.
County Wide Truancy Protocol
David gave the board copies of the letter from him to parents and the Windsor County Truancy Response Protocol. David’s letter is posted on the SU web site. The protocol is to require reporting of truancy. David said if anyone has questions to please call the Principal and feel free to contact him if they feel it is necessary. Geralyn asked how this differs from what Green Mountain is doing now. David said Green Mountain has been working under this protocol all school year. All counties are taking part in creating protocol.
Geralyn asked about a worse case scenario. David said the state can begin to supervise a student. Geralyn asked about the nomination for a truant officer. David said a truant officer has been hired for the S.U. and is being used at each of the schools. He will put this on the next agenda.
Dr. Bont reported the Rutland Herald said Vermont has the second highest graduation rate.
Committee Reports
Facilities
Committee Presentation
Tom turned the presentation over to Mike Ripley and Arne Jonynas. Tom said at the next board meeting he would like the board to walk around the building to see the sites they will be talking about. Mike handed out an overview of the facilities projects (attached). He talked about what has been accomplished over the past couple of years; the front door, voice evacuation system-auditorium, new boiler, lighting project. The current needs were presented; smoke hatches in the auditorium, voice evacuation system in the gym and cafeteria, fire doors in the stair wells (2 of 9 doors), elevators; Geralyn asked if the elevators are handicapped accessible; yes they are. Tom said the elevators are always being used for students, moving the computer carts, and maintenance. Geralyn asked about insurance on
contamination of oil in the elevators. Arne said they will look into this, roof repairs and trees were also discussed. Mike went over the possible future projects; hot water pump, air handlers in the cafeteria and gym, air exchangers in classrooms, the boiler; Arne said they are discussing what to do with the old boiler, hot water heater, kitchen water booster; this boosts the electric bill because of peak demand-he said a new one should pay for itself in one year, transformers; they are outdated and there are programs to replace them with energy efficient transformers, outside lights; they should be replaced when they all fail, alternative fuel sources for the 2nd boiler, solar panels. There is around $70,000.00 in capitol improvements. Alison asked what other sources could be tapped. Mike said Efficiency Vermont and Grants have been and will continue to be used. Dr. Bont said he thought this was exciting for him to see. He doesn’t think the school looks like a forty year
old school. He said excellent effort has been made to keep the building up. All involved should be complimented. Tom said the cameras, the auditorium, the cement pads, the trees, and the lockers are some of the things that have happened over the last few years.
Tom shared one of the original school newspapers for Green Mountain.
Tom reported on the library/media center: He said buildings are not being designed the same way anymore. Space needs to be designed to be conducive to different ways of learning; problem solving, media. Learning commons are being designed within the media centers. He said there is a need to redesign the media center for media purposes, social learning, taking online courses, and dedicated quiet reading areas.
There is a need to transform the library into a library/media center. There are currently unutilized areas. Tom thinks a committee needs to be formed and the space should be looked at by an architect.
David said he thinks this is an outstanding idea and is within reach.
Tom would like someone from the board to get involved in the committee. Dr. Bont and Alison volunteered to serve.
Policy
Curriculum Management
Geralyn said the WSWSU executive committee adopted the Curriculum Management Policy on Tuesday. There were many conversations regarding this policy. She recommends the Green Mountain board adopt the policy. She said the policy completely outlines individual’s roles.
Geralyn recommends this policy be put on the January agenda for a first read.
Optimum Class Size – First Read
Geralyn reported GMUHS currently does not have a policy for this and the deadline is January 15 which is a requirement of Act 153; Geralyn said the policy does not restrict the number of students taking online courses. David said the policy committee took this policy on to help the individual schools comply with the law. Geralyn asked that reference footnotes be added to the policy. This will go on the next agenda for adoption.
Public Comments
None
Executive Session
None
Other Business
Alison said the finance reports are being reviewed by Meredith and she wanted to thank Meredith for her budget oversight.
Adjournment
Alison made a motion to adjourn. Meeting adjourned at 6:56 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Virginia M. Walsh Mack
Recording Secretary
Green Mountain Union High School Board Meeting
Unapproved Minutes
Thursday November 11, 2010 - 5:00 p.m.
GMUHS Conference Room
Present
Board: Bill Bourque-Chair, Alison DesLauriers, Geralyn Donahue, Dr. Bont, Arne Jonynas, Ginger Roper, Mark Huntley
Administration: David P. Adams-Superintendent, Tom Ferenc-Principal, Meredith Austin-Business Manager, Pam O’Neil-Guidance Director, Mike Ripley-Associate Principal
Public: SAPA TV, Virginia Walsh Mack-Recording Secretary, Ally Oswald, Allen Garven, Norm Merrill, Keith Hill, Claire Schroeder, Gary Baker
Call to Order
Bill called the meeting to order at 5:04 p.m.
Bill said last nights soccer game was one of the most exciting games he has been to. He thanked the girls and coaches for their hard work.
Approval of Minutes of October 14, 2010
Alison made a motion to approve the minutes of October 14, 2010 as presented.
Corrections: Under Technology: the statement was too vague, Geralyn asked if “technology integration” was contained in the middle school.
Under Superintendent Report: Committee reports was not on the agenda, Bill then asked for a committee report. These items should be separated.
Motion Approved with corrections.
Executive Session: Alison made a motion to go into executive session at 6:20 p.m. to discuss negotiations and invited David, Tom, Mike, Pam and Meredith to attend. Motion approved. The board came out of executive session at 6:50 p.m. No action taken.
Collective Bargaining Agreement – Ratification
Alison made a motion to approve the agreement between the WSWSU Education association and the Green Mountain Union High School Board of Directors as bargained. Dr. Bont seconded. Bill explained that if this agreement is approved there will be one contract for FBUS, CAES and GMUHS.
Highlights of the agreement: there is a budget freeze for the current year; a 1.25% salary increase with no step for next year; an alternative health plan is offered. Alison said the process was long. She said the teachers ratified this afternoon and wanted to thank them. Discussion ensued. Motion approved.
School Climate Presentation – Mike Ripley, Ally Oswald, Claire Schroeder and Thomas Ferenc
This agenda item was changed to the second item of the agenda at Bill’s request. Tom congratulated the girls’ soccer team on their hard work; he said the girls brought the school and community together.
Tom introduced Ally Oswald, Guidance Counselor. Ally went over the climate changes GM would like to make; she talked about the 40 developmental assets that keep children off alcohol and drugs. She talked about Best Practice Collaborative For Academic, Social and Emotional Learning and the Systematic ways that GM is improving school climate; There is a schedule of activities the students take part in; Ally is teaching a class in social skills; the students are working together in groups.
Geralyn asked what they do with the 40 development assets. Ally said she shows the assets to some of her students but can’t produce too much without paying the research company that developed it. Ally read from some of the students’ journals. Geralyn asked if all 7th grade students will take the course. Ally said yes.
Ally introduced Claire Schroeder- Claire gave an overview of the Advisory and Boost Goals.
Roots of advisories: Claire said to get a read of the students she developed a survey with student government.
She gave curriculum examples: Team building, social skills and being kind to one another; current events; Diversity and Equity; School –Wide activities;
Students participate in Restorative Justice-student facilitated mediation panels; Geralyn asked how many students are on the panel. 18 students were trained.
Ally said the Academic Mentor, Karli King, is also an approach to help students.
Ally introduced Mr. Ripley: Mike spoke about Discipline. He gave a presentation of a New System and Classroom Process: The four steps before going to the office. Step 1 is a warning reminder that their behavior is unacceptable, Step 2 is a private conference with the teacher, Step 3 a student is told that they have detention and/or their parents are going to be notified, Step 4 the student is sent to the office.
Office procedures that may happen: Talk about why; get to the root of the problem, call parents, assign an office detention, send to planning room, and assign suspension.
Data: Mike tracks Who, How often, days of the week, time of the day, teacher referrals, or self referrals. He uses this data to limit the problem areas.
Geralyn asked how often the students are seen: Mike said he usually never sees the students more than three times.
Tom F. said the students are learning to recognize the situation and removing themselves gracefully. Geralyn asked how the teachers are responding; Tom said the response is multiple and varied. Bill and Geralyn thanked the presenters for the presentation.
Nomination – Special Education Team Leader
David recommended the board hire Rachel Root as the Special Education Team Leader for $3,000.00. Alison made a motion to hire Rachel Root as presented. Motion approved.
David recommended the board approve the winter sports coaches as per the collective bargaining agreement; Robert Gillam-Boy’s Varsity Basketball, Terry Farrell-Girl’s Varsity Basketball, Mike Hyjek-Boy’s JV Basketball, Gary Pelton-Girl’s JV Basketball, Scott Renfro-MS Girl’s Basketball, Ashley Newton-MS Boy’s Basketball, Betsy Verillo-Snowboarding. Arne made a motion to approve the coaches as presented. Motion approved.
Authorization to Dispose of School Asset
David reported Green Mountain owns a 1999 International School Bus and he believes the value of the bus is between $2,400.00 and 3,400.00. David said there is a market for used busses. He is asking for board approval to dispose of the asset.
Geralyn made a motion to authorize the disposal of the 1999 International School Bus asset. Motion approved.
FY 12 Budget
Alison said she and Bill will meet with the budget committee.
She said before the process is over they will discuss condensing the budget for the annual report and have the complete budget on the web site.
Line 494 is the line that will be voted on.
The budget is down 2.75%. Unless the board wants to see the 2.2% reduction in education spending this is the budget. This budget is level funded in education spending and is not meeting the “Challenge for Change” reduction. The finance committee felt they could not make any other reductions. “Challenges for Change” is a voluntary reduction. Discussion ensued. Alison recommended the local legislators be contacted.
Tom said the administration honestly believes a 2.75% reduction is big.
Tom spoke about the process of developing this budget: Non instructional reductions; electricity, fuel, and the department heads pitched in with supplies and equipment.
Instructional: SPED was the biggest savings with the reductions in the Opportunities Program. Science is reduced by one section. Geralyn asked what is driving the science reduction. Tom said class size.
Tom said they are applying for all kinds of grants to maintain the school’s integrity. He said Green Mountain is going to a co teaching model with regular educators and special educators. They will continue to work on social/emotional programming.
He said the vision is with technology opportunities for the students; Project Based Learning.
Geralyn asked about the Middle School. Are they seeing better grades with the 7th grade students? Pam said they haven’t looked at the numbers as of yet. Tom said the 7th graders struggle. Geralyn asked if children would do better with less transition. Pam said they will be able to look at this with this budget. David said deeper cuts will change the delivery of instruction at GM.
Health insurance has a 3% increase. The salary lines have a 1.25% increase unless someone moved to a higher degree.
David said the reduction in the budget is very appropriate. Bill thanked Meredith for her hard work and for coming to the meeting. The budget committee will meet with the finance committee Tuesday. Discussion ensued regarding the deficit; AARA revenue and spending; Meredith said they had to show the dollars coming in and the dollars going out so the schools used it for the assessment.
Line 497, Tech Center: The number should go down, they have fewer students.
Alison said they are hoping to approve this budget at the December meeting.
Principal Report
Tom said everyone enjoyed the Commissioner of Education’s visit to Green Mountain Union High School, he passed around the “thank you” card for the commissioner, and the commissioner will also be given a GM Sweatshirt.
Green Mountain’s Parent Teacher Conferences will be held on November 18th and 19th.
Tom said Green Mountain students are participating in Peter Dresser’s real world design challenge.
Superintendent Report
David congratulated the Girl’s soccer team.
He has been working on governance options.
He and Alison attended the VT School Boards Association conference; David presented the curriculum management audit at the conference.
He said Dr. Robert Brooks presented at the in-service today.
Alison said the governance issue needs to be addressed after the budget process.
Committee Reports
SU policy committee meets tomorrow.
The facilities committee meets tomorrow.
Public Comment
None
Other Business
Arne made a motion to go into executive session at 7:20 p.m. to discuss Personnel. David, Tom, and Pam were invited to stay. Motion approved.
The board came out of executive session at 7:28 p.m. Geralyn made a motion to reduce Bruce McEnaney’s special education paraprofessional position due to a change in enrollment. Motion approved. Ginger made a motion to approve George Haines’ resignation with both sadness and regret. Motion approved.
Adjournment
Alison made a motion to adjourn. Meeting adjourned at 7:29 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Virginia M. Walsh Mack
Recording Secretary
Green Mountain Union High School Board Meeting
Unapproved Minutes
Thursday, October 14, 2010, 5:00 p.m.
GMUHS Conference Room
Present
Board: Bill Bourque-Chair, Alison DesLauriers-Vice Chair, Geralyn Donohue, Arne Jonynas, Mark Huntley, Ginger Roper
Administration: Tom Ferenc-Principal, David Adams-Superintendent, Mike Ripley-Assoc Principal, Meredith Austin-Business Manager, Pam O’Neil-Director of Guidance
Public: Virginia Walsh Mack-Recording Secretary, Karen Surma, Sheila McDonald, Allan Garvin, Kelley Brennan, Norm Merrill, Jon Rice, Ashley Newton, Mr. and Mrs. Bishop
Call to Order
Bill called the meeting to order at 5:05 p.m.
Consent agenda
Approval of Minutes of September 23, 2010
Alison made a motion to approve the minutes of September 23, 2010 as presented. Motion approved.
Nomination-Middle School Student Government Advisor
David recommended the board hire Mary Pelkey as the Middle School Government Advisor for a salary of $345.00
Alison made a motion to hire Mary Pelkey as the Middle School Student Government Advisor for FY’11 as presented. Motion approved.
Technology Presentation-Susan Renard and Tom Ferenc
The focus is to infuse technology in the classroom.
Tom developed goal setting for the staff: He received goals from the staff regarding technology and the progress monitoring of the teachers’ goals will be done by Tom. Teachers will receive a planning sheet with standards and objectives.
Students are becoming engaged that may not have been in the past.
Students need to be fluent in what they are looking at on the computer.
Standards and objectives were discussed.
Susan talked about the Open Source Software; she wants the students to be able to move between different formats and access web sites.
Lauren was unable to be at the meeting so she gave background of the new technology department by video. She talked about access, currency, and support.
Teachers used I Movie to describe how they use technology in their classrooms. It showed all of the different websites that are used.
Communication collaboration with project based learning was discussed.
Discussion ensued regarding what grades are using this technology. Susan said it is being used across the grades; students being able to use the sites at home; video classrooms.
This is a new initiative and it is going well; the presentation was done very well. The board thanked Tom, Susan and the Staff.
FY’11 Budget
The discussion will be on the FY’12 budget. Alison said at the last meeting the board went over Challenges for Change and Act 153. She said the finance committee will come back November 11th with a preliminary draft budget. She said Green Mountain has been fiscally responsible over the years. The committee is continuing to look at non instructional items. The next meetings will be October 21st at 9:00 a.m. and November 4th at 8:00 a.m.
The committee has looked at transportation, fuel, maintenance, and food service.
Principal Report
Tom said the staff is looking at the school action plan. At the last staff meeting the staff broke into departments and looked at goals departmentally and individually. They are looking at ways to move forward.
Superintendent Report
David thanked Tom, Susan and the Staff for their efforts in technology.
The S.U. is reviewing a goal for a timeline for a committee of administration and teaching staff for evaluations.
Voluntary school merger conversation has been going on. The RWSU voted to join in a combined governance study and the WSWSU board will vote on the study at the October 26th meeting.
Policy: Geralyn said the policy committee met today and she gave the board a draft of the Curriculum Management Policy. It’s about having a comprehensive management system. The committee wants the local boards to have a good understanding of the policy. They also worked on a Family Medical Leave policy and Geralyn will be bringing that policy to the board for review. They also talked about “policy on policy”. Bill thanked the committee for their hard work.
Facilities: Arne said the lighting project is moving along. Next Thursday and Friday they will be working on the doors. There have been some leaks in the roof.
The state Fire Marshal is being contacted regarding the auditorium fence.
The only bus owned by Green Mountain needs work. David said this will be discussed during the budget process.
Public Comment
None
Executive Session
Mark made a motion to go into executive session at 6:00 p.m. to discuss a student issue. The administration and Melissa and Tom Bishop were invited. Motion approved.
The Board came out of executive session at 7:00 p.m.
Arne made a motion to deny a parent request for tuition payment as requested with understanding. Motion passed 4 affirmative, 1 abstained.
Executive Session
Alison made a motion to go into executive session at 7:02 p.m. to discuss negotiations. The administration was invited. Motion approved. The board came out of executive session at 7:23 p.m. No action taken.
Other Business
None
Adjournment
Mark made a motion to adjourn. Meeting adjourned at 7:23 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Virginia M. Walsh Mack
Recording Secretary
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