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The regular meeting of the South Kingstown School Committee was held on July 13, 2010 at the South Kingstown High School Library at 7:00 PM following an Executive Session at 6:00 PM.
MEMBERS PRESENT: Anthony Mega (Chair), Richard Angeli, Maureen Cotter, Scott Mueller, Fred Frostic, and Elizabeth Morris.
MEMBERS ABSENT: Kevin Jackson
ADMINISTRATORS PRESENT: Kristen Stringfellow, Superintendent.
I. Call to Order:
Dr. Mega called the July 13, 2010 School Committee Meeting to order at 6:15 PM.
MSV (1) move to recess to Executive Session under Title 42, Ch. 46, Section 5 of the General Laws of Rhode Island for Personnel at 6:15 PM. Mueller, Frostic (6-0-0).
MEMBERS PRESENT: Anthony Mega (Chair), Maureen Cotter, Scott Mueller, Richard Angeli, Fred Frostic, and Elizabeth Morris.
MEMBERS ABSENT: Kevin Jackson.
ADMINISTRATORS PRESENT: Kristen Stringfellow, Superintendent; Mary Kelley, Assistant Superintendent; John Ritchotte, Director of Administrative Services; Judith Saccardo, Director of Pupil Personnel Services; Teresa Eagan, Assistant Director of Pupil Personnel Services; Sheila Sullivan, Broad Rock Middle School Principal; Jennifer Enck, Broad Rock Middle School Assistant Principal; and
Rory Marty, Maintenance Director.
- Call to Order:
Dr. Mega called the July 13, 2010 School Committee Meeting back to order at 7:13 PM.
Dr. Mega advised that the School Committee was returning from Executive Session where two personnel issues were addressed: one involved a termination hearing; and a motion was made by Scott Mueller, seconded by Fred Frostic to accept the Superintendent’s recommendation. He advised that the motion was approved 6-0-0 with all present School Committee members. Dr. Mega also advised that the second item was to recall 1.0 FTE position at the High School. The motion was made by Scott Mueller and seconded by Liz Morris. He advised that the motion was approved 6-0-0.
MSV (4) move to seal the minutes from the July 13, 2010 Executive Session. Angeli, Mueller
(6-0-0).
II. Delegations (Spotlights):
- Air Force Association Teacher of the Year:
Dr. Stringfellow advised that the Air Force Association Teacher of the Year was recommended by
Mr. Frostic. Mr. Kevin Poirier, CCMS Science Teacher was awarded this honor. She explained that this award is given to a teacher who makes the most significant contribution in the areas of science, technology, engineering and math. Mr. Poirier’s work with the students at Curtis Corner, in particular the Aviation Club, is a very impressive accomplishment. Dr. Stringfellow, Fred Frostic, and Michele Humbyrd presented Mr. Poirier with the award as he was unable to attend this evening.
Mr. Frostic stated that the work Mr. Poirier has done with the Aviation Club, teaching kids to fly, is quite impressive. Mr. Frostic and Dr. Mega encouraged people to visit Mr. Poirier’s classroom.
- Special Education Update – Judith Saccardo:
Dr. Saccardo provided an Special Education update via a PowerPoint Presentation, which
included information regarding: Meet our Students; How Many are There; IEP Students – District vs. State – Ages 3 – 21; Students Exited from Special Education; Assumptions; What are the disabilities?; District – Disability Category – Ages 3 – 21; Students by Disability Category – December 2009 – Ages 3 -21; Where are the students?; Percentage of Time in General Education; Other Lenses to consider….; Free & Reduced Lunch Students; Disproportionality in Special Education; Criteria for Determining Significant Disproportionality in Special Education; All Disabilities - National Risk 9.15%; All Disabilities Risk by Race/Ethnicity; LD National Risk 4.14%; LD Risk by Race/Ethnicity; OHI National Risk 0.85%; OHI Risk by Race/Ethnicity; LRE/Placement by Race/Ethnicity ages 6-21; What does Parent Engagement Look Like?; The Special Education Statewide Parent Survey; and 2008 Results & 2009 Results.
Teresa Eagan shared information (via PowerPoint) regarding: Students with Disabilities in the NCLB Spotlight; NECAP Reading Scores – Percentage Achieving Proficiency; NECAP Math Scores – Percentage Achieving Proficiency; IEP Results Across Three Grades – Percentage Achieving Proficiency; and Post Secondary Outcomes.
Dr. Saccardo concluded the presentation with information about Progress, Challenges and Forging Ahead.
Dr. Saccardo and Ms. Eagan responded to various questions from Committee members.
Mr. Mueller stated that it would be helpful to disaggregate data of students in out-of-district placements, where the district has a role vs. where someone else is making the decision to place students out-of-district. He also asked for disaggregated information regarding the performance of Hispanic students in the schools in the state, noting that it would be helpful to get a sense of whether the children are performing substantially different that other districts. Mr. Mueller also asked about the policy with special education regarding parental visits in the classroom. Dr. Stringfellow advised that it would be possible to obtain the data requested. Dr. Saccardo advised that the policy regarding school visitations was designed due to the conflict in encouraging parents to visit a classroom yet balancing the confidentiality rights of children with special needs. She noted that the confidentially agreement is broad enough to address a number of situations.
Ms. Cotter asked for clarifying information regarding the results of professional development, how we are doing with NWEA and Aimsweb, and an overview of specific learning disability.
Dr. Saccardo explained the process of identifying a student with a learning disability; and she will forward the current definitions for all disability categories to Ms. Cotter.
Mr. Frostic noted that special education students do well in math through middle school; however, when they get to the high school they seem to “fall off the cliff.” He questioned if there were reasons why Native Americans are disproportionately identified in special education.
Liz Morris stated that the statewide survey numbers are dismal and questioned if there was anything that “jumped out” as to why the numbers were so low. Judy Saccardo advised that there are plans to use our All-Call System (which was used this year), to put information out on the listserv, and to encourage teachers to make a personal contact to advise that the survey is being mailed. Dr. Saccardo
advised that we will do a more intensive job at IEP meetings. She stated that the survey comes out in March or April; and it would be helpful to have campaigns at buildings.
Ms. Morris noted that RTI is vital for those children who are in the pipeline.
Dr. Mega stated that he would be interested in trying to get a better grasp of the depth of the problem regarding the NECAP scores. He stated that he would be interested in finding out about other sources of evaluations to see that what we are doing, instruction-wise, is helping.
Ella Whaley asked various questions and made comments which included: what the percentage is of students on alternate assessments in our district; she stated that it was her understanding that South Kingstown applied for a waiver to put off implementing RTI in the district for one year; she asked if we had any progress monitoring program/tools at the High School; she asked if all the schools would have the workshop model for English/Language Arts; do we have active SIT teams in out schools to help bridge the gap between special education and schools; is the district looking at the goal strands to improve the NECAP scores; will the MS increase to taking the NEWA three times; how many kids at the High School are on IEPs specifically for math, as she thinks the numbers are very few. Ms. Whaley asked how someone would apply for professional development with the lack of Article 32 monies. She asked if professional development was whole district or do teachers have an opportunity to request funds for professional development. Dr. Stringfellow advised that we prioritize job embedded professional development so we are certain we are training teachers. Dr. Stringfellow advised that we have professional development and make sure teachers are utilizing strategies with the youngsters; and that we are seeing outcomes improve as a result of the professional development.
Ella Whaley advised that a subcommittee from SELAC and parents in the district will be coming to the School Committee; advising that it is a subcommittee based on kids with language-based learning disabilities. Ms. Whaley asked for a copy of the handout regarding parents observing in the classrooms, as it was not part of the packet. Ms. Whaley shared concern that nothing was done with the comments parents took the time to write on the surveys. She stated that it contained fabulous information for the district and should have been forwarded from RIDE to the district.
Raissa Mosher asked about the roles of the math coaches and wondered if math coaches are at the high school. Mary Kelley advised that we have full-time math coaches for grades K-6; and we are beginning to use math coaches in grades 7/8. Ms. Kelley advised that at the high school, the Department Chairs have one period to work in a coaching capacity with their colleagues. Ms. Mosher recommended using the math coaches to provide support with advanced level students, noting that it may be time to change their roles and use them in a different way.
Martha Spiewak, Math Department Chair, advised that they have been talking about the 0% NECAP math scores (percentage achieving proficiency at the high school). She advised that gains have been made with free & reduced lunch students. She advised that they have numeracy and have addressed curriculum issues. There are more collaborative classrooms, and we have had a lot of professional development. Ms. Spiewak commented that it is a real concern with the kids that are in the pipeline.
Mr. Mueller requested that the RTI waiver be part of the Superintendent’s Report.
Keith Vorhaben, parent, asked if there is further data to advise how far away we are from the goal in math achievement in NECAP. Dr. Stringfellow advised that it is possible to drill down the data and see the individual student level.
Mr. Vorhaben asked if any support group was available for parents for students on IEPs.
Dr. Stringfellow advised that we have a Special Education Local Advisory Committee, where parents meet monthly with the Director, Assistant Director, and other parents of students on IEPs. She also noted that special education students also have the same supports that are given to regular education students.
Mr. Vorhaben stated that he assumes there are mechanisms in place for students whose parent is not meeting the needs of the child. Dr. Stringfellow stated that we do not have a formal mechanism to identify if a parent is engaging with the child; however, she advised that we have lots of support for the home (mental health staff).
Dr. Saccardo advised that we do have SELAC and it is on the district website under special education, which meets the second Wednesday of each month. She advised that if a parent has any concern, their first interaction is with the teachers, noting that we have very responsive teachers and principals. Dr. Saccardo is also available and she welcomes any calls from parents with concerns.
III. Superintendent‘s Report:
1) Meeting Calendar:
Dr. Stringfellow reviewed the meeting calendar.
Dr. Mega asked about the availability of Committee members the week of July 26, 2010 to call a special meeting regarding personnel. Dr. Mueller advised that he is not available on Fridays.
Dr. Mega also advised that the Retreat may need to be rescheduled and was are looking at rescheduling it during the week of August 9th to get all Committee members present. Mr. Mueller advised that he is available on August 9th, 10th, and 11th.
a. School Committee Meeting – August 17, 2010, 7:00 PM, South Kingstown High School
Library.
b. School Opens – September 7, 2010.
c. School Committee Meeting – September 7, 2010, 7:00 PM, South Kingstown High School
Cafeteria.
d. School Committee Meeting – September 21, 2010, 7:00 PM, South Kingstown High School
Cafeteria.
e. Wellness Sub-Committee Meeting – September 23, 2010, 4:00 PM, Administration Building
Conference Room.
f. School Committee Meeting – October 12, 2010, 7:00 PM, South Kingstown High School
Cafeteria.
g. School Committee Meeting – October 26, 2010, 7:00 PM, South Kingstown High School
Cafeteria.
h. School Committee Meeting – November 9, 2010, 7:00 PM, South Kingstown High School
Cafeteria.
i. School Committee Meeting – November 23, 2010, 7:00 PM, South Kingstown High School
Cafeteria.
1) Bullying Report—Jennifer Enck:
Dr. Stringfellow advised that Jennifer Enck is the PBIS Coordinator and she has been asked to
give a sampling of some of the data we collect now regarding bullying. This will be a “jumping off” point where we can look to round out the information we have about the amount of bullying that is happening in South Kingstown.
Jennifer Enck advised that South Kingstown is the only district in the state that is currently
implementing PBIS with fidelity. She stated that SWIS tracks the data of minor and major infractions. She advised that in order for a district to continue with PBIS they have to be implementing PBIS 70% or more and our district is implementing it at 80%. Colleen Boisclair and Jennifer Enck provide district support. Ms. Enck advised that in looking at bullying, she and Colleen looked at the district policies, PBIS websites; and as they looked at the whole policy they looked at how to define bullying vs. harassment. She explained that bullying establishes a pattern over time, whereas harassment could be done in isolation. The questions are how are we reporting that, how does harassment turn into a pattern, and how is our district documenting those things? Ms. Enck shared the incident report form she devised that everyone will be using and trained to use. Ms. Enck provided Committee members with copies of reports on problem behavior data and reviewed them with the Committee members. She noted that there is the possibility to drill down the SWIS data to see the offense and the time of the offense. Discussion followed.
Mr. Mueller stated that he would like to get feedback based on the work Jennifer Enck has already done so that the Committee can look at our policy in depth. He advised that he provided Committee members with some suggestions of how we might structure the conversation over time. Mr. Mueller stated that this is a good first step.
Dr. Stringfellow advised that the challenge has been cyber-bullying --- how can we draw a line
between bullying at school and bullying at home because it seems to spill over during the school day.
Dr. Stringfellow asked Ms. Enck if she believes that this harassment data encompasses cyber-bullying. Jen Enck stated that it depends on how the staff fills out the infractions. Ms. Enck stated that the more professional development we have for staff and faculty, the more understanding on defining the infraction.
Ms. Cotter stated that the issue is whether our policy is adequate. She stated that she appreciates the data shared. She stated that she has a curiosity about PBIS aligning with our policy.
2) Grade 5 Relocation to Broad Rock School Update—Memo from Sheila Sullivan:
Ms. Sullivan provided a synopsis of what has occurred over the past few weeks with the relocation
of grade 5 students to Broad Rock School which included: readying the school for arrival of the 5th / 6th graders; incoming faculty have packed their items to be moved; some teachers have begun to arrange their classroom; plans for our ramp up session have been completed (Coyote Camp) – August 3rd and 4th for grade 5 students, August 10th and 11th for grade 6 students. Ms. Sullivan explained that Coyote Camp is a two hour session for incoming students which allows them to see familiar faces of classmates, meet new students, have an additional tour of the school, review of the planner and protocols, meet administrators, ask questions, and practice opening lockers. Ms. Sullivan also advised that new registrations have continued to come in from other schools/relocations: a total of 11 for grade 5 and a total of 21 for grade 6 (additional 7 registration packets are to be returned). She advised that the plan is to send out postcards to grade 5 parents, noting their assigned classroom teacher. They have also firmed up pick up and drop off arrangements at Broad Rock School with the transportation company. She advised that first class will begin at 7:45 AM and school will end at 1:57 PM; however, she noted that after school activities are available.
IV. Comments from the Community:
None
V. Consent Agenda Items:
Dr. Mega reviewed the Consent Agenda.
1) Approval of minutes meeting of: June 22, 2010
Executive Session Minutes of: June 22, 2010
2) Personnel Action(s)
3) Bid Award(s) – #2266 On-Call, Periodic and Emergency Services
4) Invoice(s) – School Attorney(s)
Mr. Ritchotte summarized the Bid Award #2266 On-Call, noting that it includes a variety of work that may be needed. Anything above $5,000 would go to bid; however, if the work is below $5,000, there would be a rapid response.
Dr. Stringfellow acknowledged the retirement of Barbara Ambrosia, Account Clerk II in the Central Office who has worked in the school district with the sick pool, daily tally of attendance, and accounts payable, since 2/22/83. She will be sorely missed.
MSV (5) move to approve the Consent Agenda. Frostic, Morris (6-0-0).
MSV (6) move to approve and place on file the Superintendent’s Report. Cotter, Frostic (6-0-0).
VI. School Committee Business:
1) Expenditure(s) over $10,000: Pulled from the Agenda
2) Report of Professional Development Sub-Committee:
Dr. Mega gave a brief report of the Professional Development Subcommittee meeting, as it
pertains to the School Committee goal setting retreat, tentatively set for August 13, 2010. Dr. Mega advised that the subcommittee spoke about four components to build the retreat from. He shared the information via a PowerPoint Presentation, which included information about: Text Reading; Discussion of Data/Survey; After Action Review; and Setting Goals/Defining the Process.
Mr. Mueller stated that he believes this is a good starting point for looking at the design of the retreat; though it is important to talk about constituents that might be participants of the conversation.
Dr. Mega stated that the Committee would have to ponder how it pertains to other stakeholders and how their participation will enhance the discussion.
VII. Comments from Committee Members:
Dr. Mega expressed gratitude to the six individuals who have opted to seek election to the School Committee, as it is a wonderful, on-going community service. He noted that the members should be commended by offering themselves to this work.
VIII. Executive Session: Personnel
MSV (7) move to recess to Executive Session under Title 42, Ch. 46, Section 5 of the General Laws of Rhode Island for Personnel at 9:45 PM. Cotter, Mueller (6-0-0).
Dr. Mega advised that the individual involved was informed and does not wish to have discussion in Open Session.
The Committee recessed to executive session.
The Committee returned to open session at 10:45 PM.
IX. Adjournment:
MSV (8) move to seal the minutes of the executive session and adjourn at 10:45 PM. Mueller, Morris (6-0-0).
Respectfully submitted,
Kristen E. Stringfellow, Clerk
South Kingstown School Committee
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