The regular meeting of the South Kingstown School Committee was held on May 25, 2010 at the South Kingstown High School Cafeteria at 7:00 PM, following an Executive Session at 5:30 PM.
MEMBERS PRESENT: Anthony Mega (Chair), Kevin Jackson (Co-Chair), Maureen Cotter, Scott Mueller, Richard Angeli, Frederick Frostic, and Elizabeth Morris.
ADMINISTRATORS PRESENT: Kristen Stringfellow, Superintendent; Robert McCarthy, High School Principal.
Dr. Mega called the May 25, 2010 School Committee Meeting to order at 5:30 PM.
MSV (1) move to recess to Executive Session under Title 42, Ch. 46, Section 5 of the General Laws of Rhode Island for the purpose of a Grievance Hearing pertaining to the Collective Bargaining Agreement at 5:30 PM. Mueller, Frostic (7-0-0).
MEMBERS PRESENT: Anthony Mega (Chair), Kevin Jackson (Co-Chair), Maureen Cotter, Scott Mueller, Richard Angeli, Frederick Frostic, and Elizabeth Morris.
ADMINISTRATORS PRESENT: Kristen Stringfellow, Superintendent; Mary Kelley, Assistant Superintendent; John Ritchotte, Director of Administrative Services; Sheila Sullivan, Broad Rock Middle School Principal; and Robert McCarthy, High School Principal.
Dr. Mega called the May 25, 2010 School Committee Meeting to order at 7:14 PM.
Dr. Mega reported that the Committee had been in Executive Session over the last 90 minutes. They went into Executive Session under Title 42, Ch. 46, Section 5 of the General Laws of Rhode Island for the purpose of a Grievance Hearing pertaining to the Collective Bargaining Agreement. He noted that a vote was taken during Executive Session to approve the Superintendent’s recommendation to deny the grievance. The vote was 6-0-0 with one member (Liz Morris) recused. Members Cotter, Mueller, Jackson, Angeli, Frostic, and Mega voting to approve the Superintendent’s recommendation.
MSV (3) move to seal the minutes of the May 25, 2010 Executive Session. Mueller, Jackson (7-0-0).
Dr. Mega announced that the Air Force delegation will be move to a later date to allow for full participation.
MSV (4) move to School Committee Business. Jackson, Mueller (7-0-0).
1) Expenditure(s) over $10,000: Pulled from the Agenda.
2) Resolution(s):
Dr. Stringfellow advised that she was asked at an earlier meeting to provide space on this
agenda to allow for a conversation about resolutions. She noted that this line item is at the pleasure of the School Committee.
Ms. Cotter offered that this conversation be postponed so that the Committee can take it
up at another time. She noted that the Committee was reacting to resolutions that the Superintendent shared that had come from other districts.
Dr. Mega agreed that this item could be put on the agenda for the next Committee meeting.
a. Budget line item changes
b. School Consolidation
c. Elimination of full day kindergarten
d. Reduction of Fund Balance
e. Adjustments in the timeline
f. Other options
Dr. Stringfellow stated that thankfully there is no longer a worry about a referendum
that would threaten programs, staff, and services to the students of South Kingstown. She advised that two revenue reduction risks still exist today: $460,000 from either the Governor’s supplemental and/or the Governor’s 2010-2011 budget. The other risk is approximately $944,000 if a funding formula is enacted and implemented this year. As she did on May 20th, the Superintendent urged the Committee to focus on $460,000, as she feels that is a very real exposure. She further explained that our legislators have given us some firm indication that the funding formula may not be implemented this year. We need to keep pressure on our local legislators to ensure that does not happen. Dr. Stringfellow recommends that we create a budget reduction plan of $460,000: taking $260,000 from the fund balance (which represents 38% being used as revenue); and the following budget line items reductions take place: Family Community Engagement Office FCE line item in the amount of $40,000 (to be paid not out of the local budget but out of Title I funds); reduction of the Contracted Therapy Services line item in the amount of $16,000 (which would not mean any less services for youngsters); a reduction of an additional Central Office Support person in her office in the amount of $40,000; a reduction in the ESY line item in the amount of $11,000 (which would not mean the loss of any services to students); a Custodian Reduction in the amount of $101,000, representing 2 FTEs.
Dr. Stringfellow clarified that she is not recommending the reduction of a School Nurse Teacher, Elementary Orchestra, Intramural or Middle School Sports, Student Assistance Counselor, High School Librarian, Administrator, Consolidation of a School, or Elimination of All Day Kindergarten. Dr. Stringfellow further recommended that should the actual loss be less than $460,000 that the Committee honor the handshake agreement by taking $200,000 in program reductions first and then taking from the undesignated fund balance. She also advised that if this is the wish of the School Committee that the Committee send correspondence to the Town Council advising them of the planned use of additional undesignated fund balance and request their endorsement of that action at their next scheduled meeting.
MSV (5) move as outlined by the Superintendent to initiate the cuts. Mueller, Jackson (7-0-0).
Mr. Jackson expressed concern that the custodians have been hit hard and he does not want the schools to get run down. He requested that if revenues become available that the custodians be put back in.
g. Budget line item changes
h. School Consolidation
i. Elimination of full day kindergarten
j. Reduction of Fund Balance
k. Adjustments in the timeline
l. Other options
After discussion, Dr. Stringfellow clarified that if the funds needed are less than that
which is represented by the motion, then we would first replace funds to the undesignated funds rather than to the line items. John Ritchotte advised that we currently have $1,937,290; we would be utilizing a total of $744,322 which would leave us with $1,192,968. We briefly discussed last week that we are currently a little over $900,000 under-budget this year, but we reserved that for any supplemental cuts that we might see; should there be a balance then that should shift to the fund balance. Dr. Stringfellow stated that the undesignated fund balance was created by design (budget reduction plan this year where we froze all “P” accounts, froze assignment of substitute teachers for non-contractual items, and froze professional development) to be sure that we did not go into a deficit. Mr. Ritchotte advised that the original amount that we were planning to take was $484,322 which represented 25%; however, the new amount is $744,322 which represents 38.4%.
Dr. Mega asked if we take no further money out of the undesignated fund balance beyond
the $260,000, and with the assumption that we had to use $900,00 this year to cover possible losses from the state, that next year’s fund balance could then be approximately $1.1 million. Mr. Ritchotte stated that it would be $1,193,000. Dr. Mega clarified that that this year, prior to the $260,000, we utilized $484,322; and he stated that it is important to note what the operational deficit is. Dr. Stringfellow stated that we plan to use 25% to 1/3rd every year as revenue; and you strive to have a fund balance for emergencies. She advised that when you get into a pattern of using it as revenue, you will have to continue to do that or you will force yourself into a structural deficit for the ensuing year. We cannot lower that amount by too much or we look to not replenishing it this year, but we are used to replenishing it by at least a small amount every year.
Dr. Mega stated that he agreed with Ms. Cotter that we would need a separate motion to
use further undesignated funds; however, he will come back to that point. Dr. Mega suggested moving to School Committee Business #4 because he wanted to get those questions and issues on the table, move back to community comments for a period of time, vote on the two items, and then discuss whether to approve using further undesignated funds.
3) Vote to move Grade 5 to Broad Rock Middle School:
Dr. Mega advised that due to his absence, he watched the DVD recording of the last meeting. He listened to the conversation about moving grade 5 to BRMS and to the lengthy discussion. He asked if the School Committee members had any further discussion points.
MSV (6) move grade 5 to Broad Rock Middle School. Jackson, Angeli (4-3-0; Mueller,
Frostic, Morris, nay).
Dr. Mega advised that he would allow for the community to offer comments on items #3 and #4 of School Committee Business. He stated that after reviewing the tape, the comments really need to address new discussion points. Dr. Mega stated that his plan is to be adherent to the bylaws and limit comments to approximately 30 minutes. He requested that people coming up make comments briefly; and if they agree with the previous speaker, just acknowledge that they do. He advised that at the point we are approaching 30 minutes, he would give fair warning; then we will bring the discussion back to the motions on the table.
A group of 5th grade teachers, representing Matunuck, West Kingston, Wakefield, and Peace Dale Elementary School, came to the microphone and Robin Wildman, Wakefield teacher, stated that they felt it was time for the community to hear from the educators. She stated that they are united and asked that the Committee not vote to send 5th graders to BRMS. Ms. Wildman expressed the first concern in that placing nine and ten year olds at the middle school is that they will believe that they are middle schoolers. Along with that are behaviors that they are not emotionally able to handle. She stated that 6th graders have pubescent behaviors, which we do not want our 5th graders exposed to. Ms. Wildman stated that they teachers have discussed and noted that nine and ten year old students still play tag at recess, love to play on the playground, they play with dolls and toys, and the innocence is something we should be fostering. She stated that the students will be pressured to act like the rest of the crowd and go along with the behaviors that are far too advanced for them to handle emotionally.
Ms. Wildman asked if the Committee has thought about the fact that many of the 9 or 10 year olds will arrive home one hour earlier then they do from the elementary schools. This will force parents to leave children home alone longer until they get home from work.
Donny Waterous, Peace Dale teacher, spoke about the community of our elementary schools (K-5). He stated that the loss of 5th grade will not devastate the communities of the elementary school, but it will take an elementary grade and take it out of its community.
Mr. Waterous stated that there will not be an elementary band, noting that their first experience will be at Broad Rock if the 5th graders move out of the elementary school. He stated that if the 5th graders move to Broad Rock, it will not be a community of elementary kids, it will be a community of 5th graders.
Ms. Wildman stated that they were still not clear about recess and they wondered how the 5th grade teachers would be included in a recess committee; where would the children play since there is no outside area at Broad Rock that could handle 259 students; how many teacher assistants are available to supervise that many students; would you have to hire extra teacher assistants to supervise; where would the money come from to purchase recess equipment; and would you plan in the future to build a playground. Ms. Wildman stated that recess is a much needed part of a nine and ten year olds’ day.
Helen Pernicone, Peace Dale teacher, shared her concern about the physical environment. She shared her experience in looking at the room at Broad Rock where a workshop was held,
noting that the room was small. It does not seem that the classrooms are conducive to the learning of an elementary school child. Ms. Pernicone shared the learning environment needed
for elementary students. She asked if the Committee considered the learning environment. She invited the Committee to visit her classroom so that they can see what the needs are for the elementary child.
Ms. Wildman stated that the teachers are questioning if money has been set aside to buy extra materials that they have been sharing with K-4 colleagues (picture books, special tables and head sets for listening library, and other materials). She stated that at last week’s meeting,
Mrs. Sullivan spoke about the 6th grade program at Broad Rock; however, they have not yet heard anything about what the 5th grade program will look like. No one has talked to the 5th grade teachers about what a proposed 5th grade program would look like. Ms. Wildman stated that they would like an opportunity to continue to nurture and protect our 5th grade students at the elementary school. They request that the Committee vote to do what is best educationally for our students; leaving 5th graders in the elementary school to produce the most well rounded children, which is want we all want.
Dr. Stringfellow advised that she called Rory Marty and they talked about the fact that classroom sizes among the grade levels are not standardized throughout the elementary schools in the district. She stated that she hoped that the 5th grade teachers would continue to use the workshop model, which is utilized by the 6th grade teachers. She agreed that gathering spaces are very important. Regarding recess, she advised that there is a contractual agreement to form a recess committee. Dr. Stringfellow stated that there would be some sort of a job fair and she would need to find out which teachers would elect to go to Broad Rock. She also noted that
Mrs. Sullivan would make herself available to work out all of the issues that are of concern.
Michael Mutschler, parent, stated that he is not in favor of moving 5th graders to Broad Rock. He stated that our elementary schools are excellent. Mr. Mutschler stated that he has a child on an IEP and he is aware of how important consistency is for his child’s education. He stated that it is not right to give the kids only a four-week notice.
Kurt, resident, asked what the teaching model would be if kids go to Broad Rock.
Dr. Stringfellow advised that it would be an elementary school model for the 5th graders. Kurt asked if there would be teaming or not. Dr. Stringfellow advised that there have been discussions; however, she had not made a determination of whether there would be teaming. Discussion followed. Kurt stated that a lot depends on the model that is chosen, the opportunity to bring 5th grade teachers together in a building, which would provide new opportunity for alignment of the curriculum. He suggested that the Committee wait to see what we will do with the opportunity. It may be too premature to pick the children up and move them before there is a conversation about a vision you may want
Steve Cooper, parent, referred to a Duke University study (mentioned at the April 13th meeting) and the contact he made with authors of the study. He stated that there could be serious ramifications with electronic bullying that 5th graders would be exposed to if they are moved.
Lisa, parent, shared concern about the early start times for bus rides. She referred to information gleaned from WebMD, which indicates that 7 to 10 year olds need 10-11 hours of sleep per night. She questioned whether we want to compound the problem by having our 10 year old to have sleep deprivation. Lisa referred to a 2006 survey which stated that Finland had the best education out of 56 countries. She noted that the Finns keep 7 year olds and 16 year olds together in the same school and then move them for two years.
Keith Vorhaben, parent, asked where the savings come if the move is budget neutral and $60,000 has to be spent by adding a bus. Dr. Stringfellow explained that it would come from the elimination of 4/5 splits and from efficiencies. Mr. Vorhaben asked about the educational benefit if we are pushing to spend $63,000 on a bus rather than keeping the money in the classroom.
Mr. Vorhaben stated that he believes in the power of language and expressed that he is disappointed that it is being phrased as we are moving 5th graders, noting that he would rather have it phrased as we are taking the 5th graders out of the elementary school. He believes that messing with the foundation will have long-term ramifications for the children.
Cheryl Foster, parent, stated that she would like to hear more about the plan for harnessing parent support for 5th graders at Broad Rock, noting that it drops off at the middle school level. Ms. Foster stated that her concern is not for the educational quality but for the
“at risk” students. She stated that she would like to see a plan in place for how parent involvement in the 5th grade will be sustained in the middle school for the sake of socially and economically “at risk” children.
Bob Hackey, parent, stated that the biggest issue is the equity issue among the teaching staff. He asked which model will prevail in terms of Common Planning Time. Mr. Hackey stated that there should be one level playing field. Dr. Stringfellow advised that she was confident that she would work with Sheila Sullivan and union leadership to map out what the inequities would be and to work together to make sure that there would be equity.
Jane Bouchard asked for clarification on the first motion. Dr. Mega advised that he would review the motion later but noted that school consolidation was not recommended.
Ms. Bouchard acknowledged the Superintendent, noting that the recommendation demonstrated a lot of courage in reorganizing her thoughts and it acknowledging that hearing community comment as important. Ms. Bouchard stated that as she has reflected on all of the dialogue through the budget season, she requests that the Committee consider stabilizing the community just for a short term longer.
Mark Levitt, community member, stated that if the schools in South Kingstown are doing a good job why would we change them? Is the solution going to make the problems of the community worse or better? Mr. Levitt stated that South Kingstown is one of the most sought after communities in the state. He asked why rock the boat or fix something that is not broken. If it is a question of utilization of resources, if it is a question of finances then let’s deal with it at that level. Let’s talk about what we need to do in order to take full advantage of the facilities that have been built by our community. Let’s look at what the financial issues are and let’s
collectively come to terms with that issue without sacrificing the quality of education that the Committee, teachers, and parents have put together laboriously over many years.
Mr. Follett, grandparent, stated that he thinks it is ridiculous to put 9 and 10 year olds earlier and on a longer ride on the bus. He also stated that it is ridiculous to pull children out of their community and force them to build a new identity at a school they will be at for two years.
Mr. Follett also expressed concern about bullying, noting that the bus is a prime environment for bullying.
Deb Masciarelli, Wakefield teacher, stated that one of her biggest concerns about moving the current 4th graders is the lack of time to allow for transition for the students. She stated that they deserve adequate time for positive outcomes.
Barry Alofsin, parent, asked what special services currently available at the elementary level will not be available at Broad Rock. Dr. Stringfellow advised that services are based on the needs of the children. Dr. Mega noted that we need to meet IEP and 504 Plans. Mr. Alofsin stated that several teachers have stated that OG will not be available at Broad Rock.
Stephanie Warcup, parent, expressed that she does not feel that her 4th grade child is ready to go to the middle school. Ms. Warcup stated that she feels we are rushing our children to grow up. She stated that the elementary school is the foundation of every child’s education, where they learn to read, basic math, and writing. She does not believe that extra transitions do not help at all. Ms. Warcup stated that there is something special about our elementary education; let’s not take that away from our children.
Stacy Bodziony, parent, advised that she was reading through the district strategic plan to figure out how we got here. It is the shared responsibility of family, students, school personnel and elected officials to work together to provide a positive educational environment.
Ms. Bodziony stated that she hopes that the Committee has worked as hard for us as well.
m. Budget line item changes
n. School Consolidation
o. Elimination of full day kindergarten
p. Reduction of Fund Balance
q. Adjustments in the timeline
r. Other options
Dr. Mega returned to School Committee Business Item #3 – Budget Reductions, noting that the motion was to accept the Superintendent’s recommendation of a reduction plan that equals $460,000: $260,000 from the fund balance; $40,000 from Family Community Engagement; $16,000 from Contracted Therapy Services; $40,000 from the Central Office Staff; $11,000 from ESY; and $101,000 representing two FTEs from Custodial Services. He noted that the motion was made by Scott Mueller and seconded by Kevin Jackson.
Mr. Jackson stated that this is a reaction to state funding reductions passed after we passed the budget. He stated that closing an elementary school was never recommended by the Superintendent, it was an option based on the necessary reductions.
Dr. Mega stated that he believes that this was a clear example of working with the community. He stated that he has trepidation of using this much of the fund balance. Dr. Mega stated that what we are doing here creates a structural deficit; however, he feels it is a worthwhile risk to take based on what has been spoken by the community.
Vote taken.
Ms. Cotter stated that she was in support of the reconfiguring Broad Rock Middle School
to include grade 5. She believes that it is an opportunity and a prudent move to bring out 5th grade teaching talent and our students to enhance facilities in a district-based 5/6 grade school. As discussed at several meetings, the move allows for many improvements at the elementary program level including the elimination of split classes. Based on information included in the NESDEC report as well as the Superintendent’s presentations on BRMS reorganization, we achieved the related goals of efficiencies and equity. In addition, the projected annual savings cannot be overlooked as a factor in this decision, the trickle effect of the financials impacts programs at all levels in the district. She stated that she believes parents will judge the effectiveness of this move relative to their child’s academic success and general well-being. I am confident that the educational programming will continue to be of exceptional quality regardless
of whether it is in an elementary school or at Broad Rock Middle School. She stated that she is confident that Dr. Stringfellow, Mary Kelley, Sheila Sullivan and the elementary principals will provide the leadership to make this transition successful for both students and teachers.
Ms. Cotter stated that she understands that some may see things differently with this decision; however, she is confident in her assessment of this issue. She has heard concerns about bullying, transition, educational support to special education students; it is her expectation that the Superintendent has heard the concerns and will be preparing a plan to manage those situations.
Ms. Cotter concluded by stating that she is in favor of Broad Rock to include grade 5.
Mr. Mueller advised that his position does not change. He stated that he looked at the question of grade configurations, the research, and the experience nationally. He has thought deeply about 5th graders in South Kingstown and he believes that wherever they are placed they will receive a good education, which reflects the standards of this community. Mr. Mueller stated that he cannot find a consistent theme of enhanced student achievement as a result of placing 5th graders with 6th graders or in middle schools. The Superintendent has identified that
this is an educational initiative, not financial. Mr. Mueller stated that community engagement, joining with the community, is a core element for success identified by Keyworks. Mr. Mueller stated that he believes 5th graders belong in the elementary school. He stated that we should continue the conversation because the questions have just begun. He noted that we have extraordinary issues facing this community in public education in the next few years.
Mr. Mueller stated that he will not support the motion.
Mr. Jackson stated that we have work in front of us the next couple of years; and there will be a lot of tough choices in front of us. Mr. Jackson stated that we need to continue to have conversations and keep the community involved. He stated that we have great educational leaders (principals, assistant principals, to custodians) and it encourages him to have such great people. Mr. Jackson stated that he will rely on the professional educators. He noted that he agrees with the comments made by Maureen Cotter.
Mr. Angeli stated that this has been a lengthy process, which started in February. He stated that he thinks that our leadership, both on the Committee and Administration, has provided valuable information to do the due diligence that we have had to do to arrive at a decision.
Mr. Angeli stated that it is important to point out is that we don’t always agree on the Committee but we respect differences of opinion. Mr. Angeli stated that we have never shied away from community input. He stated that there are pros and cons on either side of this argument.
Mr. Angeli stated that he is not convinced that the reasons that have come before the Committee are driven by the issue of moving the 5th grader but is driven more by the issue of consolidating an elementary school. He stated that he believes this is a great educational move, great familiarity for 4th and 5th graders to move together, and he believes that we have a wonderful educational staff that will help with transition and will continue to deliver the quality of education that the people in South Kingstown have come to expect. Mr. Angeli stated that it is positive to bring all staff on a district-wide basis, to have the children be together with their classmates district-wide from grades 5-12. He believes that the questions have been adequately answered regarding transportation and logistical issues. Mr. Angeli stated that he does not change his position.
Mr. Frostic stated that he has looked at this from different lenses. He stated that we are working on two different problems: financial difficulties this year and for us to put together as a Committee and community a five year plan for the school district. Mr. Frostic stated that
he will continue to vote no on the condition that we continue to engage in a serious community effort to put together a plan for our schools..
Liz Morris stated that she fully respects our educational leaders and their recommendations; and she understands their thinking. She stated that she has heard a lot from the community on both sides. She stated that she has not seen a strong educational reason for this move. Ms. Morris expressed that she believes that this is budget neutral and that there is no cost factor here. Ms. Morris stated that she believes the important thing is the teacher and the community of the school. She stated that moving 4th and 5th graders this year is not the best practice for the community. Ms. Morris stated that we have heard that narrow grade span configurations are not good. She believes that 4th graders moving to 5th will think of themselves as middle schoolers. Ms. Morris advised that one educational piece that we will lose if 5th graders move to Broad Rock is the mentoring program where 5th graders mentor 2nd graders.
Dr. Mega acknowledged the high standards of the members of the School Committee. He stated that when he reviewed the tape of the last meeting, he understands that people could have taken a vote and it would have been legitimate, but it would have been doing the wrong thing.
Dr. Mega expressed appreciation to have the opportunity to weigh in on the matter. He stated that everyone who has spoken on the issue cares about education in South Kingstown. Dr. Mega advised that he is going to vote to move 5th graders to BRMS. He stated that he feels that the middle schools in this district have been extraordinarily successful; and that will continue in the context of the structure of a 5/6 and a 7/8 school. I understand that the 5th graders represent an elementary school, but the grouping together acts more of a context of a middle school. He stated that he has always been impressed by Mary Kelley and John Ritchotte’s care to detail; they are the hardest working people he has ever been engaged with, and that the Superintendent will take care of details in a very careful manner. He advised that he has spoken with teachers, most recently last night, and the teachers have always been professional and have always done the right thing to benefit children. From a teacher’s point of view, he understands the displacement from a place that you have been engaged with is a difficult transition to make. He believes that the 5th graders have the potential for educational benefit. He also felt that the time walking through each elementary school was a very important step, as each principal stated that there was need for more space. He expressed appreciation for community comment; and he hopes that this process engages people to become School Committee members. Dr. Mega noted that he has a 4th grader and the decision he makes will affect his child.
Vote taken.
1) Meeting Calendar:
Dr. Stringfellow reviewed the meeting calendar. The Committee members identified which end of the year functions they would attend.
a. School Committee Wellness Subcommittee Meeting – May 27, 2010, 4:00 PM,
Administration Building.
b. School Committee Meeting – June 8, 2010, 7:00 PM, South Kingstown High School
Cafeteria.
c. SELAC Meeting – June 9, 2010, 7:00 PM, Administration Building.
d. Senior Honors Night – June 10, 2010, 6:30 PM, South Kingstown High School.
e. Athletic Banquet – June 13, 2010, 5:00 PM, Quonset O Club.
f. Senior Prom – June 14, 2010, 7:00 PM, Officer’s Club-Newport.
g. Graduation – June 18, 2010, 6:00 PM, Ryan Center.
h. School Committee Meeting – June 22, 2010, 7:00 PM, South Kingstown High School
Cafeteria.
i. School Committee Wellness Subcommittee Meeting – June 24, 2010, 4:00 PM,
Administration Building.
j. School Committee Meeting – July 13, 2010, 7:00 PM, South Kingstown High School
Cafeteria.
2) SORICO Update:
Dr. Stringfellow advised that she and Maureen Cotter attended a session at SORICO that
she thought was worthy to bring to the Committee’s attention. She advised that she emailed the Committee something she received from SORICO Executive Director, Mike McKee, which she read: On April 9, 2010 the SORICO Collaborative Council was provided news that the Collaboration was in financial difficulty. One way to balance the budget was to enter into a professional development agreement with East Bay Collaborative. The Council asked Director McKee to continue the discussions with Easy Bay and report back on May 10th. At the May 10th meeting (at which Dr. Stringfellow and Ms. Cotter were in attendance) the Council decided that the proposed professional agreement was not in the best interest of the districts. In facing a 2010-2011 shortfall, Director McKee recommended that SORICO close because of the shortage of funds, including the net assets. The Collaborative Council then created a task force (Ms. Cotter agreed to sit on that task force to represent South Kingstown) to study the future of the Collaborative and to meet with Associate Commissioner David Abbott about the issue. As a result of the task force discussions on May 24th, Director McKee will be making the following recommendations to the Collaborative Council at its June 10th meeting: 1) Raise the per student fee to $5.00 with a total amount equaling prepaid dollars for the district’s use of SORICO programs and services (currently the fee is $2.00 per student but the fees buy into no program or services); 2) move forward with the plan even if 7 out of the 9 districts so choose.
Dr. Stringfellow advised that as of the writing today, the task force had not met with the Associate Commissioner. Dr. Stringfellow stated that what Mr. McKee is referencing in the 7 out of 9 districts is the fact that at the meeting two of the districts seemed to be in support of closing the Collaborative. Mr. McKee feels that the two districts, which happen to be larger districts, may still pull out of the Collaborative and he wants the Committee to be aware of that fact. She advised that the vote will come on June 10th. Dr. Stringfellow advised that she is struggling to attend on June 10th as it is her daughter’s senior honors night. She is seeking thoughts from the Committee. She advised that she is checking to see if she can send a proxy and she is trying to work on the timing issue.
Ms. Cotter advised that the task force met with David Abbott today about the future of SORICO. She advised that Mr. McKee spoke about the status. The task force has a recommendation to propose to the Collaborative Council. She noted that the reason the Collaborative Council went to see Mr. Abbott was because there is an opportunity for SORICO and they had ideas to propose, which she shared. Ms. Cotter stated that Dave Abbott was very interested and stated that most likely the Commissioner would be very interested. She also noted that following the vote at the June 10th meeting, there will be some next steps. Ms. Cotter stated that she found it to be encouraging news. Discussion followed.
Dr. Mega stated that this item should be on School Committee Business.
Dr. Stringfellow stated that she will bring a full report at that time.
3) Budget Reduction Matrix: Addressed Previously
4) 2010-2011 Budget:
MSV (7) move to accept and place on file the Superintendent’s Report. Mueller,
Jackson (7-0-0).
Mr. Angeli stated that the budget is on the House Finance’s agenda Thursday. He asked what options we have if the things do not go the way we anticipate they go. Dr. Stringfellow advised that in her opinion we have already dealt with what she assumes is the worst case scenario for the Governor’s supplemental and the 2010-2011 budget. Dr. Stringfellow stated that the other potential risk is the funding formula. Mr. Angeli asked about the funding formula and what our contingencies are if it were to change. Dr. Mega stated that he would like to see more information from the state.
Dr. Mega asked the Committee members to confirm their vote in moving grade 5 to Broad Rock Middle School: In favor to move: Maureen Cotter, Kevin Jackson, Richard Angeli, and Andrew Mega. Opposed: Scott Mueller, Fred Frostic, and Liz Morris. A vote of 4-3-0.
Dr. Mega reviewed the Consent Agenda.
2) Bid Award(s)
a. #2265 Boiler, BRMS
3) Invoice(s) – School Attorney(s)
4) 2011 Curtis Corner Field Trip to Washington, DC
Dr. Stringfellow acknowledged the resignation of Vincent Mattera, High School Band
Director. She advised that he will be sadly retiring; because of his length of stay in our district, it is considered a resignation. Dr. Stringfellow shared information about Vincent Mattera: He received his Bachelor and Masters of Music from the University of Rhode Island. His career as a music educator began in 1972 when he became the Director of Music at Nantucket Junior/Senior High School, a position he held for three years. From 1975-1978 he served as Assistant Band Director and Assistant Conductor of the Orchestra at the University of Rhode Island.
Mr. Mattera also served as Assistant Director of the Rhode Island Music Educators Association Wind Ensemble and the Young People’s Symphony of Rhode Island. Mr. Mattera served as the Conductor of the Rhode Island Philharmonic Repertory Youth Orchestra from 1987-2000. He taught for 26 years at East Greenwich High School, where he was the Director of Band, Orchestra, String Ensemble, and Jazz Ensemble. Vince Mattera has been the Band and Orchestra Director at South Kingstown High School since July, 2004. Besides his teaching duties, Vince Mattera has been Past President of Rhode Island Music Educators Association. He will be sorely missed.
Mr. Mueller recalled a time when the Committee had exit interviews with retirees; and he
asked that the Superintendent bring back a recommendation on how we can best capture the wisdom of the teachers who have been with us for such a long time. He stated that we should honor them and hear what they have learned from us. Dr. Mega and Mr. Frostic agreed with
Mr. Mueller’s comments and request.
MSV (8) move to accept the Consent Agenda. Angeli, Jackson (7-0-0).
Mr. Jackson stated that over the last three years, we have seen the worst recession since the 1930’s. He stated that the economy will get better but our situation will get worse.
Mr. Jackson stated that he sees the teachers and teacher assistants as part of the solution, not part of the problem.
Mr. Angeli stated that he still does not know what we do with $4 million less than what we have now. He stated that he does not believe that over an extended period of time, what we have as far as education and how we deliver it is not what we will have. Mr. Angeli stated that the community needs to stay engaged.
Mr. Frostic stated that we should take the task of formally engaging the community in a plan, using the NESDEC report.
Ms. Morris stated that we need to take a look at where we want to be, noting that we have tremendous financial difficulties. She stated that she is glad that we were able to put off the school consolidation. Ms. Morris stated that she is glad that we have another year to look at what we should do and where we want to go.
Mr. Mueller stated that the strength of a School Committee is its ability to have people disagree on issues and then come together because there is no one at this table that is not about public education. He stated that no one at this table is doing anything but what they believe is best for children. Today, we are joined in our view of being committed to public education and what is best for children.
Dr. Mega read Vincent Mattera’s letter of resignation, where he stated that he has received nothing but support, encouragement, and appreciation. He stated that he will miss the students and the entire South Kingstown School Committee.
Dr. Mega stated that he appreciates the comments made. He stated that he cannot help but think about how much more work the Committee has in front of them. Dr. Mega stated that the Committee is committed to reviewing policies to see how they need to be revised, they have talked a lot about where we were with substance abuse, and there is so much more to do. He stated that he hopes to keep the community engaged, which represents a well-functioning community.
MSV (9) move to adjourn at 9:50 PM. Angeli, Frostic (7-0-0).
Respectfully submitted,
Kristen E. Stringfellow, Clerk
South Kingstown School Committee
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