September 12, 2013 Minutes

APPROVED BY THE PITTSFIELD SCHOOL BOARD

STATE OF NEW HAMPSHIRE
SCHOOL ADMINISTRATIVE UNIT #51
PITTSFIELD SCHOOL BOARD

MINUTES

Pittsfield School Board Meeting
5:30 p.m.; Thursday, September 12, 2013
Pittsfield Middle High School

I. CALL TO ORDER

Members Present: Michael Wolfe, chairperson
Bea Douglas
Gary Mullen
Ray Ramsey

Others Present: John Freeman, Superintendent
Tobi Gray Chassie, District Administrator
Susan Graham, Dean of Instruction
Paul Newell, Dean of Operations
Sarah Rollins, Director of College & Career Readiness
Members of the faculty
Members of the public

Chairperson Wolfe called the meeting to order at 5:31 p.m.

II. AGENDA REVIEW

The following items were added to the agenda:
• School Calendar (Dr. Freeman)
• Communications from Citizens (Dr. Freeman)
• Second Start Program (Dr. Freeman)
• Math Course (Ms. Graham)
• Comments from Citizens (Mr. Mullen)
• Senior Release (Mr. Newell)

III. ACTION ON AGENDA

On a motion made by Mr. Mullen and seconded by Mr. Ramsey, the Board voted unanimously to approve the agenda as amended.

IV. MINUTES

A motion was made by Mr. Mullen and seconded by Mr. Ramsey to approve the minutes of the July 30, 2013, and August 22, 2013, meetings. On page 2, paragraph 6, change to “continue to research the cost.” The motion passed unanimously to approve the minutes as amended.

V. PUBLIC INPUT

Ms. Leah Adams asked if the Board could provide additional information about the proposed changes being made to policies to include a public notice of the specific changes.

Ms. Adams asked who is responsible for Senior Release. Mr. Newell stated that he is responsible and has been working on organizing this year’s program. Senior Release will begin on Monday.

Ms. Adams read concerns regarding the Common Core State Standards as they relate to algebra.

Mrs. Kathy Corliss stated a concern about a decision to provide advanced math and calculus as a shared class. She also stated a concern about the schedule which may not allow core classes to be held more than three days per week.

Ms. Graham explained that a plan to separate the advanced math and calculus is in motion. She explained the plan to the Board; Dr. Freeman stated that he felt appropriate arrangements can be made. Work will continue to execute the plan.

Mr. Ross Morse stated that the year’s first meeting of the Foss Foundation Scholarship Program will be Thursday, September 19, 2013, at 8:00 a.m. at the Town Hall. He asked that the School Board’s representative be reminded of the meeting. Dr. Freeman will remind Ms. Manteau.

Discussion ensued regarding the School Board’s email addresses. There have been some issues, but corrections are in the process of being made. Website links should be up and running soon.

VI. SUPERINTENDENT OF SCHOOLS

A. SECOND START PROGRAM

Second Start Program Representatives Kim Haley and Amber Violette were introduced to the Board. Ms. Haley explained a proposed expansion of the Student Assistance Program at PMHS. She explained that Counselors Ms. Violette and Sean Young are prepared to provide services to students. New funding has become available and will be used to provide preventive programs, such as Project Success. The program provides services for students already involved in substance abuse patterns and students who are affected by substance abuse by someone in their immediate family, as well as prevention education.

VII. DEAN OF INSTRUCTION

A. LEARNING STUDIOS

PMHS Teachers Mr. Chris Davitt, Mr. Brian Pinto, and Mr. Derek Hamilton were introduced to the Board. Mr. Davitt explained the middle school Learning Studios initiative. Examples of student experiences within the first day of Learning Studios were communicated.

Mr. Hamilton presented a Learning Studios Selection Guide and explained that credit may be awarded for work, once approved by the Dean of Instruction. He explained that a Learning Studio Fair was organized so students could talk to teachers before deciding the studio for which they would register. Students have offered feedback about the process, which has been very positive.

Mr. Hamilton presented a Content Focus Availability Calendar. He explained that students can take advantage of support or enrichment opportunities. Support prior to the summative assessments will decrease the chances of students requiring competency recovery after the summative assessment.

Ms. Douglas stated her appreciation for the response teachers made to the concerns of the Board members expressed at a previous meeting. She acknowledged the work teachers have accomplished to make the program work.

B. PES HEALTH CURRICULUM

Ms. Graham explained that Mr. Michael Curtin and Ms. Melissa Miller are developing the curriculum for mental health, nutrition, personal and consumer health. The curriculum is almost complete and will be brought to the Board for approval.

C. CLASSROOM OBSERVATIONS

Ms. Graham stated she has been able to visit every classroom multiple times.

D. CURRICULUM: HONORS

Ms. Graham reported work is being undertaken to offer honors level courses by extending the requirements and expectations of the regular classes.

E. PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Ms. Graham summarized the professional development occurring on the first two professional days for teachers, late start Wednesdays, and work at PES with Consultant Susan Villani.

F. INVESTING IN INNOVATION GRANT TEAM

The Investing in Innovation (i3) Team have established meeting dates and an action plan to continue the work of inquiry-based learning.

G. COMMUNICATION

A second PMHS communique to parents and community is being prepared by Ms. Graham.

H. NEW HIRE

Ms. Graham reported that Colleen Steinbeiser has been chosen as the candidate for the Family and Consumer Science / Health position at PMHS.

VIII. DEAN OF OPERATIONS

A. STUDENT/FAMILY HANDBOOKS

Mr. Newell stated that work continues on the student/family handbook. Two phases of work will be conducted – immediate and long-term. On a motion made by Ms. Douglas and seconded by Mr. Ramsey to approve the current handbooks, with the understanding that changes will be made as online access and the development process ensues.

B. SENIOR PRIVILEGES

Mr. Newell distributed a handout explaining Senior Privileges. The handout explained the qualifications required as well as rules. Mr. Newell asked for the Board’s approval of changing the qualifications. On a motion made by Ms. Douglas and seconded by Mr. Ramsey, the Board decided unanimously to remove one requirement: “Proficient or better on NECAP (and/or NWEA) testing junior year (starting with the class of 2012).”

C. PES FACILITIES

Mr. Newell reported construction is going well at PES. Disruption to the school has been minimal. He reported the issues that have arisen as the work progresses, but are being addressed.

According to Mr. Mullen, he has heard from the community that there are issues with construction workers using inappropriate language and smoking on school property. Discussion ensued regarding egresses being available in an emergency. Mr. Mullen also called a traffic flow issue to Mr. Newell’s attention; Mr. Newell will investigate and address concerns.

D. PMHS FACILITIES

The PMHS kitchen was cleaned and prepared for opening on Wednesday, August 28, 2013.

E. INSPECTION

Mr. Newell reported a health inspection walk-through was scheduled for Friday, September 6, 2013.

F. RESTORATIVE JUSTICE

The Restorative Justice Team continues to work on how the program interfaces with the student management system. An assembly was held to help students understand the PMHS norms and the rules in the handbook. A group of stakeholders will convene to map out a comprehensive and strategic plan for addressing behavior management.

G. WEBSITE

Mr. Newell reported that a group of people, which includes both school representatives and community members, are reviewing the district and school websites while planning for upgrades.

H. ATHLETIC

Damage to the soccer field caused by the Balloon Rally required some work. Coaches gave up time on a Saturday to work on the field.

I. NEW HIRES

Mr. Newell informed the Board that two positions are yet to be filled: Student Support Center Assistant and PMHS School Nurse. When the junior varsity soccer coach resigned, due to personal reasons, Varsity Coach Derek Hamilton has assumed the additional responsibilities.

IX. DIRECTOR OF COLLEGE & CAREER READINESS

A. ADVISORY PROGRAM

Ms. Rollins explained that the Advisory Council worked this summer to create a framework for the Advisory Program. She mentioned the inclusion of work regarding developing executive function skills in students.

B. WEBSITE

Work has begun on the webpages to reflect the new focus on college and career readiness. Information and forms will be easily accessible.

C. PITTSFIELD PARENT CONNECTION

Ms. Rollins informed the Board of the great start the PPC has made. They are recruiting new parents to become involved.

D. COLLEGE & CAREER READINESS

Ms. Rollins explained the developing plans to “Cultivate a Culture of a College-Minded Community,” otherwise known as the C4. Students will be supported academically and emotionally while building comprehensive plans for their futures.

E. ELO AND DUAL ENROLLMENT

Ms. Rollins reviewed the work of Sheila Ward (Extended Learning Opportunities Coordinator) and Sarah Carri (Dual Enrollment and On-Line Coordinator) are doing to enhance programs and develop opportunities for students.

F. DUAL ENROLLMENT AND CAREER READINESS COURSE

Sheila Ward and Sarah Carri are in the process of developing a course with Southern New Hampshire University designed to prepare students for life after high school. The hope is to have this course ready for second semester.

G. VERMONT ADVISORY VISIT

In collaboration with Mr. Ross Morse, Community Liaison, PMHS will be hosting a visit from educators from Burlington, Vermont. Teachers are interested in observing the Advisory and Site Council meetings as well as participating in discussions regarding these programs.

X. DISTRICT ADMINISTRATOR / PROJECT MANAGER

A. POSITION ANALYSES

Ms. Chassie requested the approval of the College and Career Readiness Position Analysis. On a motion made by Ms. Douglas and seconded by Mr. Ramsey, the Board unanimously approved the College and Career Readiness position description.

Ms. Chassie distributed position descriptions for PES School Counselor, PMHS School Counselor, and Project Manager. Action will be requested on October 10, 2013.

B. EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT PLAN

Ms. Chassie explained that the revised emergency plan has been written in accordance with the Incident Command System, which is new for the district. The plan has been separated into two sections: Emergency Response and Behavioral Response. On a motion made by Mr. Mullen and seconded by Ms. Douglas, the Board unanimously approved the Emergency Management Plan.

C. PROFESSIONAL GROWTH AND EVALUATION PLAN

Ms. Chassie requested approval for the 2013-2014 Professional Growth and Evaluation Plan. The Plan had previously been approved by vote of the Education Association of Pittsfield (EAP). On a motion made by Ms. Douglas and seconded by Mr. Ramsey, the Board voted unanimously to approve the plan.

D. YOUTH LEADERSHIP INSTITUTE

The Nellie Mae Education Foundation is sponsoring a Youth Leadership Institute on October 4 and 5, 2013. Eight students have been selected to represent the district. The conference will be held in Manchester and will provide accommodations for the students and their two chaperones, Mr. Derek Hamilton, and Ms. Jenny Wellington. On a motion made by Mr. Mullen and seconded by Ms. Douglas, the Board voted unanimously to approve the overnight excursion.

E. COMMUNICATION TEAM

Ms. Chassie reported that the 2013-2014 District Communications Plan is being finalized. Also, a sub-group is working on updating the website. The Team’s first of six videotapes reflecting student centered learning practices will be premiered on October 3, 2013, at 6:00 p.m. in the PMHS Lecture Hall.

F. GOOD TO GREAT TEAM

The first meeting of the year of the Good to Great Team will be held on Tuesday, September 17, 2013, at 5:30 p.m.

G. NELLIE MAE EDUCATION FOUNDATION

The 18-month progress report was submitted to the Foundation, along with a document responding to specific questions posed, and a budget summary.

H. LEAGUE OF INNOVATIVE SCHOOLS

Ms. Chassie reported that the district will continue participating in the League of Innovative Schools. Membership will connect educators, spread good ideas, and accelerate improvement with student centered learning best practices.

I. CONCORD HOSPITAL RESIDENT PROGRAM

According to Ms. Chassie, the Concord Hospital will continue utilizing the Pittsfield School District as a practicum site for the nine doctors in their third year of residency.

J. PRIORITY AND FOCUS SCHOOLS

Ms. Chassie reported that Pittsfield Elementary School has been designated as a Focus School and Pittsfield Middle and High School have been designated as Priority Schools. She provided information explaining the support that is expected from the New Hampshire Department of Education.

XI. SUPERINTENDENT OF SCHOOLS (Continued)

A. CALENDAR

Dr. Freeman described a change made to the Concord School District calendar and recommended a change in the district’s calendar to mirror Concord’s to allow Pittsfield students participating in programs at the regional career center full participation. On a motion made by Mr. Wolfe and seconded by Mr. Ramsey, the Board unanimously approved a change to the master calendar: the teacher workshop day will be October 11, instead of October 4.

B. BUDGET

Dr. Freeman stated the work on the FY 2015 budget will soon begin. He will be meeting with the Budget Committee on Wednesday, September 25, 2013. Dr. Freeman asked the Board members to give some thought to any direction that they might want to provide at this early stage.

Dr. Freeman explained the challenges presented by the low salary scale for teachers and paraeducators. He provided statistics relative to retention of experienced teachers and explained the difficulty in hiring paraeducators.

Dr. Freeman offered the Board a timeline for budget preparation.

C. HVAC PLANNING

According to Dr. Freeman, the next major facilities investment on the horizon is the HVAC system. He recommended that a team be assembled to consider options and develop a timeline.

D. POLICY JICI

Dr. Freeman promised more information would be coming soon.

E. PITTSFIELD FACULTY SUMMER PROJECTS

Dr. Freeman shared an article that will be posted on the website regarding our faculty’s work during the summer months.

F. COMMUNITY CORRESPONDENCE

Dr. Freeman shared correspondence from Leah Adams and Dan Schroth Piermarocchi. (Ms. Adams’s email and Mr. Schroth Piermarocchi’s letter are attached to these mintues as addenda.)

XII. SCHOOL BOARD

A. SCHEDULING

Mr. Ramsey offered accolades for the quick response of the administrators on the math schedule changes.

Ms. Rollins stated that the administrators have already started talking about changes in the plan for next year’s scheduling process.

XIII. COMMITTEES

A. DRAKE FIELD & FACILITIES

Mr. Wolfe stated that he has received negative comments about the grandstand being painted after an Eagle Scout project that included painting the grandstand. The School Board did not decide to cover the work of the Boy Scout and would want the young man to know that. Mr. Newell will develop a plan to repaint the grandstand.
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B. NEGOTIATIONS

Dr. Freeman will be offering possible dates for meetings to the Board shortly.

C. BUDGET COMMITTEE

Mr. Ramsey stated the first meeting would be on September 25, 2013, at 6:00 p.m. at the Town Hall. He asked the members of the Board for assistance as it will be his first year representing the Board.

D. FOSS FOUNDATION

Dr. Freeman will remind Ms. Manteau of the meeting of the Foss Foundation.

XIV. PUBLIC INPUT

Ms. Adams asked when the next Pittsfield Parent Connection meeting would occur. Ms. Rollins stated Wednesday, October 9, 2013, at 6:00 p.m.

Ms. Corliss asked about the details for the SAT testing opportunity being provided on October 16, 2013. Ms. Rollins stated the testing would be free to all participating students.

Ms. Corliss offered accolades to the French teacher who was selected to continue the on-line work.

Ms. Corliss thanked the administration for the hiring a strong school staff. She stated that she is of the opinion that this is the strongest faculty the schools have had in ten years.

XV. NEXT MEETING

The next School Board meeting is scheduled for Thursday, September 26, 2013, at 5:30 p.m. in the PMHS Media Center.

XVI. ADJOURNMENT

On a motion made by Mr. Mullen and seconded by Ms. Douglas, the Board voted unanimously to adjourn the meeting at 7:31 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Tobi Gray Chassie
Recording Secretary