June 15, 2006 Minutes

STATE OF NEW HAMPSHIRE

SCHOOL ADMINISTRATIVE UNIT #51

BARNSTEAD – PITTSFIELD PITTSFIELD SCHOOL BOARD

MINUTES

Pittsfield School Board

June 15, 2006

Pittsfield Middle High School

I. CALL TO ORDER

Members Present: Scott Brown, Chairman

Gary Colby

Leslie Vogt

Christopher Ward

Others Present: Owen Conway, Superintendent of Schools

Donna Clairmont, Business Administrator

Karen Erlandson, Principal, PMHS

Mark Jarvis, Director of Student Services, PMHS

Jeff DeLois, Administrator, PMHS

Tobi Gray Chassie, Director of Student Services, PES

Chairman Brown called the meeting to order at 6:19 p.m. .

II. AGENDA REVIEW

Ms. Erlandson added volleyball, coaching nominations, mathematics, and post-secondary statistics. Ms. Chassie added teacher nominations and resignations and support staff nominations and resignations. Mr. Jarvis added support staff nominations. Ms. Clairmont added extension of insurance for liability and workman’s compensation.

III. APPROVAL OF PREVIOUS MEETING MINUTES

On a motion made by Ms. Vogt and seconded by Mr. Colby, the Board voted unanimously to approve the minutes of the June 1, 2006 meeting as submitted.

IV. PUBLIC INPUT – None

V. PES ADMINISTRATION

A. Introductions

Ms. Chassie introduced Ms. Amy Fanning and Ms. Kathy Lemay. Ms. Fanning and Ms. Lemay were hired by the Board at the last meeting to fill special education teaching positions. Mr. Brown welcomed Ms. Fanning and Ms. Lemay to the District.

B. Resignations

Ms. Chassie recommended that the Board accept the resignation of Kristie Napolitano from her position as first grade teacher. On a motion made by Mr. Colby and seconded by Mr. Ward, the Board voted unanimously to accept the resignation of Ms. Napolitano and thanked her for her dedicated service.

Ms. Chassie recommended that the Board accept the resignation of Gail Vincent from the position of part-time educational assistant. On a motion made by Mr. Ward and seconded by Ms. Vogt, the Board voted unanimously to accept the resignation of Ms. Vincent.

C. Nominations

Ms. Chassie recommended that the Board consider the nomination of Shaunna Trudelle as a sixth grade teacher. On a motion made by Mr. Colby and seconded by Mr. Ward, the Board voted unanimously to hire Ms. Trudelle.

Ms. Chassie recommended that the Board consider the nomination of Jennifer Golia as first grade teacher. On a motion made by Mr. Colby and seconded by Mr. Ward, the Board voted unanimously to hire Ms. Golia.

D. Employment Up-date

Ms. Chassie informed the Board that Gary Noyes, a certified teacher who has been employed as an educational assistant, would be transferred to the position of permanent substitute teacher. Ms. Chassie called the Board’s attention to the chart that Dr. Freeman provided to explain the movement of Paula Cote to first grade teacher and Tiffany Pease to special education. The music teacher position currently remains vacant.

E. 21st Century Community Learning Center Grant

Ms. Chassie informed the Board that the Department of Education had awarded the 21st Century Community Learning Center Grant to PES. The Advisory Council, consisting of Tobi Chassie, Paula Cote, John Freeman, Michelle Giordano, Stephanie Lamere, Margie Lank, Maria Rekelhoff, Andrea Riel, Chris Teague, Cindy Thompson, and Leslie Vogt, organized in January to assist in the preparation of the grant. The Advisory Council will work with program partner, Concord YMCA, to continue the preparation for the start up of the project in September.

F. Sgt. Rick Walter

Ms. Chassie informed the Board that Sgt. Rick Walter was awarded the statewide honor of “D.A.R.E. Officer of the Year”. Sgt. Walter was selected out of almost 200 D.A.R.E. officers who serve in New Hampshire. Mr. Colby will send a note of congratulations to Sgt. Walter.

G. Nomination

Dr. Conway re-nominated Sheila Bartlett for the position of special education teacher. Ms. Chassie explained that there had been a delay in her certification being received from the Department of Education but all was now in order. On a motion made by Mr. Colby and seconded by Mr. Ward, the Board voted unanimously to hire Ms. Bartlett.

VI. PMHS ADMINISTRATION

A. Alumni Association

Ms. Chassie reported that the first meeting of the Pittsfield High School Alumni Association had been held on May 23, 2006. At that meeting the Executive Officers were elected and included: President, Tobi Chassie; Vice President, Carole Richardson; Secretary, Andrea Riel; Treasurer, Louie Houle; Membership Secretary, Ian Pollard; Historian, Sandy Bucknam; Members-at-Large, Chris Ward and Ted Mitchell. The next meeting of the Alumni Association is scheduled for September 5, 2006. The Association has adopted a mission statement, core beliefs, and by-laws. The Association will work on fund raising for the purpose of awarding scholarships and assisting the effort to replace the gymnasium floor at PMHS.

B. Resignation

Mr. Jarvis recommended that the Board accept the resignation of Paula Driscoll from her position as educational assistant. On a motion made by Mr. Colby and seconded by Mr. Ward, the Board voted unanimously to accept the resignation of Ms. Driscoll with thanks for her work.

C. Nominations

Mr. Jarvis recommended that the Board consider the nomination of Toni Biswurm as an educational assistant. On a motion made by Mr. Ward and seconded by Mr. Colby, the Board voted unanimously to hire Ms. Biswurm.

Mr. Jarvis nominated Terry Azotea for the position of educational assistant. On a motion made by Ms. Vogt and seconded by Mr. Ward, the Board voted unanimously to hire Ms. Azotea.

Mr. Jarvis nominated Annette Bachelder for the position of educational assistant. On a motion made by Mr. Ward and seconded by Ms. Vogt, the Board voted unanimously to hire Ms. Bachelor for continued employment.

Ms. Erlandson nominated Derek Hamilton for the position of high school social studies teacher. On a motion made by Mr. Ward and seconded by Ms. Vogt, the Board voted unanimously to hire Mr. Hamilton.

D. Coaching Nominations

Ms. Erlandson presented a list of fall coaching nominations that included: Rick Anthony, Boys Varsity Soccer; Alyssa Heppler, Girls Varsity Soccer; Paul Strickhart, Varsity Volleyball; Christine Hinckley, Varsity Cross Country; Derek Hamilton, Boys Junior Varsity Soccer; Peter Tuttle, Girls Junior Varsity Soccer; Paul Strickhart, Junior Varsity Volleyball; Ian Pollard, Boys Middle School Soccer; Kathy Corliss, Girls Middle School Soccer; and Katie Batchelder, Middle School Volleyball. On a motion made by Mr. Colby and seconded by Ms. Vogt, the Board voted unanimously to hire the entire slate of coaches.

E. Varsity Volleyball

Ms. Erlandson reported that Paul Strickhart and the varsity volleyball team have been invited to participate in the KSA 2006 Fall Classic Volleyball Tournament to be held at the Sports Complex at Disneyland in Orland, Florida. The Tournament will run from August 31 to September 2, 2006 and will consist of six to eight games over the four days of the tournament. Details of the trip were presented. On a motion made by Mr. Colby and seconded by Mr. Ward, the Board unanimously approved the trip as presented.

F. Mathematics

Ms. Erlandson proposed changes in the math program to allow this year’s accelerated 8th grade students to complete Algebra I and to allow accelerated 8th grade students to earn Algebra I credit by the end of the 8th grade beginning in the school year 2006-07 without separating them from their peer group. Ms. Erlandson pointed out that according to Ed 306.26 (e), the local school board may develop a policy that grants credits to students taking coursework in the seventh and eighth grade toward high school graduation, if the course demonstrates content requirements consistent with related high school course(s) and the student achieves satisfactory standards of performance. Dr. Conway distributed a model policy on Alternative Credit Option for High School Graduation. He encouraged the Board to consider this policy so that they have the option of offering credit for this math proposal, as well as others as they are recommended in the future.

G. Post-Secondary Statistics

Ms. Erlandson reviewed a summary of post-secondary educational plans of high school seniors from 2002 to 2006.

H. Other

Mr. Brown commented on the success of the awards ceremony, baccalaureate, and graduation. He thanked Ms. Erlandson and the staff responsible for the success of the events. It was noted that the 8th grade promotional ceremony was scheduled for June 19, 2006 at 6:00 PM.

VII. SAU ADMINISTRATION

Painting Bid
Ms. Clairmont presented a bid for painting to be done at PES and PMHS. She explained that there was a balance of $10,218 from work already completed. That balance, along with $12,564 realized from savings in workman compensation insurance, she suggested using for painting projects at both buildings. On a motion made by Mr. Colby and seconded by Mr. Ward, the Board voted unanimously to hire M&L Maintenance for painting/staining at PES and PMHS.

Primex
Ms. Clairmont presented a proposal from Primex NH Public Risk Management Exchange to extend the District’s participation in the Primex Multi-Year Discount Program and receive a 5% discount. On a motion made by Mr. Colby and seconded by Mr. Ward, the Board voted unanimously to have Ms. Clairmont sign the extension with Primex.

Expenditure Authorization
Ms. Clairmont stated that a letter was received from Commissioner Tracey authorizing expenditure in excess of its appropriation.

Policy FFA
Dr. Conway presented Policy FFA on Memorials for a first reading. The Board accepted Policy FFA as a first reading.

Policies Required for School Approval
Dr. Conway explained that under the new Standards for School Approval, the District is required to have a policy permitting interdisciplinary study as well as a policy encouraging activities during the summer. Amended Policy IKF and Policy IHCA meet those requirements. Dr. Conway recommended that the Board waive its customary first and second reading procedures and adopt both of these policies. On a motion made by Mr. Colby and seconded by Mr. Ward, the Board voted unanimously to waive the standard practice of a first and second reading and approve Policy IKF on graduation requirements and IHCA on summer activities.

Other
Mr. Brown thanked the people who coordinated the gathering in honor of Dr. Conway and Ms. Clairmont. He thanked them for their service of six and seven years, respectively. Dr. Conway expressed his appreciation for the Board’s work and support.

Mr. Brown explained that an interim superintendent will be hired for the summer and will work part time (13 days in July and 17 days in August). If hiring occurs during this interim, administrators are to call Chairman Brown for instructions. The Board will consider authorizing the Interim Superintendent to hire on a case-by-case basis.

VIII. COMMITTEES

A. Drake Field & Facilities

Mr. Colby explained that Team Design would work on Tuesday, June 20, 2006 at Drake Field to provide input so that plans can move forward on the renovations under the grand stand.

Selectmen Liaison
Mr. Brown reported that Chief Wharem has gathered a committee to plan for a pandemic and requested that a member of the School Board participate. Mr. Brown will notify the Chief that the Board is available as a resource for information the committee may need.

SAU Planning
Ms. Paradise was requested to contact Mrs. Pellegri to see if she would fill a vacancy on the SAU Planning Committee. A meeting will be scheduled for late August.

IX. NEXT MEETINGS

Dr. Conway suggested that meetings be held on July 20, 2006 and August 17, 2006. There is an SAU Board meeting scheduled for June 27, 2006 at 5:30 PM in Barnstead.

X. PUBLIC INPUT (Second Session) – None

XI. ADJOURNMENT

On a motion made by Mr. Ward and seconded by Mr. Colby, the Board voted unanimously to adjourn the meeting at 7:50 p.m.

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MINUTES

Pittsfield School Board

June 1, 2006

Pittsfield Middle High School

I. CALL TO ORDER

Members Present: Scott Brown, Chairman

Mary Paradise, Vice Chairman

Gary Colby

Leslie Vogt

Christopher Ward

Others Present: Donna Clairmont, Business Administrator

Karen Erlandson, Principal, PMHS

Mark Jarvis, Director of Student Services, PMHS

Lois Stevens, Administrative Intern

Tobi Gray Chassie, Director of Student Services, PES

Chairman Brown called the meeting to order at 6:00 PM.

II. AGENDA REVIEW

Ms. Erlandson added an invitation for members of the Board to make graduation presentations. Mr. Jarvis added nominations. Ms. Chassie added a resignation and request for non-residence attendance.

Mr. Ward introduced Boy Scouts, Joshua Gourley and Ben Lamere, attending the meeting to meet the requirements for a Communication & Citizenship Merit Badge. Mr. Brown welcomed the two gentlemen to the meeting.

III. APPROVAL OF PREVIOUS MEETING MINUTES

On a motion made by Mr. Colby and seconded by Mr. Ward, the Board voted unanimously to approve the minutes of the May 18, 2006 meeting as written.

IV. PUBLIC INPUT – None

V. PES ADMINISTRATION

A. Resignation

Ms. Chassie presented a letter of resignation from Christopher Hamel from his position as music teacher. On a motion made by Mr. Colby and seconded by Mr. Ward, the Board voted unanimously to accept the resignation.

B. Nominations

Ms. Chassie presented Dr. Conway’s nomination to hire Amy Fanning to the position of special education teacher. The Board deferred further discussion to the Non-Public Session.

Ms. Chassie presented Dr. Conway’s nomination to hire Kathy Lemay to the position of special education teacher. On a motion made by Mr. Colby and seconded by Mr. Ward, the Board voted unanimously to hire Ms. Lemay.

C. Request from Non-Resident Student

Ms. Chassie read a letter from a parent requesting that his son be allowed to complete the school year at PES while the family was residing in Northwood. On a motion made by Ms. Paradise and seconded by Mr. Ward, the Board voted unanimously to allow the continuation of attendance at PES until the end of the year.

D. Summer Staff Nominations

Ms. Chassie presented Dr. Conway’s nomination to hire Joan Goddu, Holly Hinkley, Jessica Jones, Susan L. Murray, Susan D. Murray, Paulette Rouse, and Kristen Nazer as summer school staff. On a motion made by Ms. Paradise and seconded by Ms. Vogt, the Board voted unanimously to hire the individuals.

E. Assessment & Adequate Yearly Progress Report

Ms. Chassie reported that Dr. Freeman’s report on Assessment and Adequate Yearly Progress would be scheduled for a future meeting.

F. 21st Century Community Learning Grant

Ms. Chassie explained that Dr. Freeman had been contacted a second time by the DOE regarding the 21 Century Community Learning Grant. They have requested additional information that includes more specific information about the proposed budget. It seems that his application is still under consideration.

VI. PMHS ADMINISTRATION

A. Teacher Nomination

Mr. Jarvis presented Dr. Conway’s nomination of Sheila Ward for the position of special education teacher. On a motion made by Ms. Paradise and seconded by Mr. Colby, the Board voted to hire Ms. Ward. Mr. Ward abstained from the vote.

B. Resignations

Ms. Erlandson presented the resignation of Bonnie Potter from her position as educational assistant. On a motion made by Mr. Colby and seconded by Mr. Ward, the Board voted unanimously to accept the resignation of Ms. Potter.

Ms. Erlandson presented the resignation of Joy Gustin from her position as library assistant. On a motion made by Ms. Paradise and seconded by Ms. Vogt, the Board voted unanimously to accept the resignation of Ms. Gustin.

C. Grade Six Parent Night

Ms. Erlandson reported that the second annual parent night for the parents of sixth grade students would be held on the evening of the PES Sixth Grade Celebration. The Celebration is scheduled for June 15, 2006 from 5:00 to 6:30 PM. The parents will meet at PMHS from 5:15 to 6:15 PM. Mr. Ward and Mr. Colby volunteered to help at PES. Ms. Vogt and Mr. Brown volunteered to help at PMHS.

D. Graduation

Ms. Erlandson reported that Baccalaureate would be held at the Park Street Baptist Church on June 8, 2006 at 7:00 PM. Awards Night is scheduled for June 9, 2006 at 7:00 PM at PMHS. Mr. Brown will make the presentation of Valedictorian and Ms. Paradise will make the presentation of Salutatorian.

Graduation will be held at Drake Field on June 10, 2006 at 10:00 AM. In the event of inclement weather, the ceremony will be held at PMHS. According to Ms. Erlandson, Graduation has been well planned; parking has been planned and chairs will be rented.

Discussion ensued regarding alternate plans in the event that teachers do not participate in the Awards Night and/or Graduation. The Board volunteered to assist in any way possible.

VII. SAU ADMINISTRATION

A. Oil Bid

Ms. Clairmont advised the Board that four bids were received for oil. She recommended that the Board accept the bid of Fred Fuller at $2.395 per gallon. She explained that this represents $.14 per gallon more than budgeted. On a motion made by Ms. Paradise and seconded by Mr. Ward, the Board voted unanimously to accept the recommended bid from Fred Fuller Oil Company.

B. 2006-2007 Proposed Budget Cuts

Ms. Clairmont explained that the administration had worked to make recommendations for budget cuts. Mr. Brown acknowledged that the budget would continue to change but that it is necessary to make the cuts at this time. Ms. Clairmont presented the list of proposed budget cuts. On a motion made by Ms. Paradise and seconded by Mr. Ward, the Board voted unanimously to accept the recommended budget cuts.

Ms. Clairmont explained that she is awaiting final approval of the request to over expend up to $50,000 in the current budget.

C. Memorial Policy

Ms. Clairmont called attention to the draft of Policy FFA that was provided by Dr. Conway dealing with memorials in acknowledgement of losses in the school community. Mr. Brown requested that Dr. Conway develop a similar policy for consideration of the Board. Mr. Jarvis explained that the research is clear regarding the potential detrimental effect of memorials when a student has taken his/her own life and asked that this be considered as they continue the process of accepting a new policy.

VIII. COMMITTEES

A. Drake Field & Facilities

Mr. Ward offered his assistance in installing signage that has been completed for Drake Field. Ms. Clairmont agreed to check on the status of the installation.

B. SAU Planning

Mr. Brown explained that the Committee will be meeting soon and that a new member will need to be added.

IX. NEXT MEETING

The next meeting is scheduled for June 15, 2006 at 6:00 PM at PMHS. Agenda items will include Adequate Yearly Progress, painting bids, introduction of candidates, and a report regarding the PMHS Alumni Association by request of Mr. Ward.

X. PUBLIC INPUT (Second Session)

Ben Lamere and Joshua Gourley thanked the Board for welcoming them to attend the meeting.

XI. NON-PUBLIC SESSION

On a motion made by Ms. Paradise and seconded by Mr. Ward, the Board was polled and voted unanimously to enter into Non-Public Session under the provisions of RSA 91-A:3 II (c), Personnel, Student, and Legal Matters. The Board entered the Non-Public Session at 7:04 PM.

The Board discussed a personnel issue.

On a motion made by Ms. Paradise and seconded by Mr. Ward, the Board voted unanimously to exit Non-Public Session at 7:20 PM.

XII. Teacher Nomination

On a motion made by Ms. Paradise and seconded by Mr. Ward, the Board voted unanimously to hire Amy Fanning as special education teacher at PES.

XIII. ADJOURNMENT

On a motion made by Ms. Paradise and seconded by Mr. Colby, the Board voted unanimously to adjourn the meeting at 7:21 PM.