The School Board of Escambia County, Florida, convened in Public Forum at 6:00 p.m., in Room 160, at the J.E. Hall Educational Services Center, 30 East Texar Drive, Pensacola, Florida, with the following present:

Chairman:   Dr. John DeWitt          

Vice Chairman:   Ms. Linda Finkelstein

Board Members:    Mr. Gary L. Bergosh

Mrs. Cary Stidham

Dr. Elmer Jenkins

School Board Attorney:   Mr. Francisco M. Negron, Jr.

Superintendent of Schools:    Mr. Jim Paul

Dr. DeWitt called the Public Forum to order at 6:00 p.m.

INVOCATION AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

 Prior to the invocation and pledge of allegiance, Dr. DeWitt (on behalf of the Board) congratulated Mr. and Mrs. Bergosh, who had recently finalized the adoption of a child from Russia.  Mr. Wayne Odom gave the invocation and Mr. Bergosh led the pledge of allegiance.  Dr. DeWitt announced that a Special Meeting would be held March 4, 2002 to review proposed budget cuts, discuss the one-half cent sales tax and review the charter school application by A.A. Dixon Elementary.

PUBLIC FORUM

The Board recognized the following speakers who addressed various subjects:

(Supplementary Minute Book, Exhibit “A”)

Name                          Issue

Byron Parker             Renaming N.B. Cook Elementary after Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.            

Gail Husbands            Education Funding Issues

Madonna Jackson-Williams     “Read Across America”

Bob Husbands             “Read Across America”/Education Funding Issues

I.     CALL TO ORDER

Dr. DeWitt called the Regular Meeting to order at 6:15 p.m.

II.   ADOPTION OF AGENDA

 The Superintendent listed the additions, deletions and amendments to the agenda. (see margin notes) Ms. Finkelstein added Item VII.B.9 “Request Placement of Half-Days into the School District Calendar for the 2002-2003 School Year.”  Dr. DeWitt deleted Item VII.B.2 “Lease Purchase Program” and noted that he would continue to work with staff on a proposal regarding the lease/purchase of technology for the March Regular Meeting agenda.  Dr. DeWitt explained that Item V.E.1.B.2 “Snoezelan Project/Westgate Agreement between Escambia County and Escambia County School Board” had been deleted from the agenda due to legal issues within the contract that needed to be corrected.  He stated that the item would be on the agenda for the March Regular Meeting.  On motion made by Dr. Jenkins and seconded by Ms. Finkelstein, adoption of the agenda as amended, was unanimously approved.

III.   APPROVAL OF MINUTES

1.  01-08-02 SPECIAL MEETING [Proposed Changes in School Attendance Zones]

2.   01-10-02 SPECIAL MEETING [Executive Session (Collaborative Bargaining)]

3.  01-11-02 REGULAR WORKSHOP

4.  01-15-02 REGULAR MEETING

5.  01-29-02 SPECIAL RECOGNITION MEETING

6.  01-31-02 SPECIAL MEETING [Refunding Certificates of Participation, Series 2002]

7.  01-31-02 SPECIAL MEETING [Executive Session (Pending Litigation)]

Motion made by Ms. Finkelstein, seconded by Dr. Jenkins, to approve the minutes as listed (Items 1-7), was unanimous.

IV.  COMMITTEE REPORTS

1.  Stellar Employee Recognition

 The Superintendent announced that Mrs. Joyce Gunn, Bookeeper/Secretary at Northview High School, was the Stellar Employee for the month of January.  Mrs. Gunn was given a plaque and pin from the School District and a check in the amount of $100 donated by Members First Credit Union.

2.  PTA Presentation

 Ms. Karen Pope, President, Escambia County Council PTA (ECCPTA), gave a brief update of the recent and upcoming activities of the PTA and expressed her appreciation to the Board for their support.

3.   Citizens Advisory Committee (CAC) for Human Resources and Minority Recruitment/Retention – Elmer Jenkins

 Dr. Jenkins stated that the committee had discussed items relating to human resource services that were pending for this meeting, issues related to recruitment and retention of employees and additional employee training.  The committee also discussed security issues for administrative offices and school campuses as well as the charter application by A.A. Dixon Elementary (which will be presented at the March 4, 2002 Special Meeting).

4.  Citizens Advisory Committee (CAC) for Technology and Curriculum – John DeWitt and Linda Finkelstein

 Dr. DeWitt stated that the committee had discussed items relating to technology that were pending for this meeting.  He noted that the committee had reviewed and unanimously recommends approval of Item V.D.22 “Agreements for a Fiber Optic Metropolitan Wide Network.”  Ms. Finkelstein stated that the committee had discussed items relating to curriculum that were pending for this meeting, issues regarding Title I (i.e., changes in laws, use of funds, etc.) and the district’s pursuit of the “one textbook” concept.  She stated that some members expressed their opposition to the “one textbook” concept and noted that the committee will continue to review that issue in the future.

5.  Quarterly Report from the One-Half Cent Sales Tax Watchdog Committee

(Supplementary Minute Book, Exhibit “B”)

 Admiral Pete Booth, Chairman of the One-Half Cent Sales Tax Watchdog Committee, gave a brief review of the committee’s Quarterly Report.

V.  CONSENT AGENDA

Board Members pulled the following items from the Consent Agenda for separate vote:  Item V.A.4 by Dr. DeWitt and Item V.D.22 by Mrs. Stidham.  On motion by Ms. Finkelstein and second by Dr. Jenkins, the Consent Agenda, except for items pulled was unanimously approved.

A.  Curriculum and Instruction

(Supplementary Minute Book, Exhibit “C”)

Approved:

DELETED    1. Item Pulled After Number Issued

2.  School Advisory Council Additions/Deletions

3.  School Improvement Plan Revision

AMENDED  4.  License Agreement between Sacred Heart Hospital and Escambia County School Board

 Dr. DeWitt moved to approve the License Agreement between Sacred Heart Hospital and Escambia County School Board, with a change to item ten (10) in the contract to read “this agreement shall be from February 20, 2002 and ending on June 30, 2002” rather than “this agreement shall be for a one-year term commencing on February 20, 2002 and ending on June 20, 2002.”  Motion was seconded by Dr. Jenkins and unanimously approved.

AMENDED  5. Agreement between the School Board of Escambia County and Children’s Services Center and the Escambia County School Readiness Coalition

B.  Finance

(Supplementary Minute Book, Exhibit “D”)

Approved:

1.  Authorization for payrolls and vouchers for the month of March 2002

2.  Check Register for the month of January 2002

3.  Financial Statement for the month of January 2002

4.  Legal Services:

Summary of all legal fees

5.   Legal Services:

General Fund

a)  Hammons & Whittaker, P.A.        $1,331.80

b)  Hammons & Whittaker, P.A.        $175.50

c)  Hammons & Whittaker, P.A.         $54.00

d)  Hammons & Whittaker, P.A.     $121.50

e)  Foley & Lardner                    $5,000.00

f)  Robert N. Heath            $101.25

g) Robert N. Heath              $197.50

h) Gregory Farrar, P.A.      $ 650.00

6.  Legal Services:

Risk Management Fund

a)  Hammons & Whittaker, P.A.           $6,307.49

b)  Hammons & Whittaker, P.A.           $4,122.40

7.  Budget Amendments

a)  Resolution 5:  General Operating Fund

b)  Resolution 5:  Other Special Revenue Fund

c)  Resolution 5:  Capital Projects Fund

8.  Disposal of Capitalized and Non-Capitalized Assets:

a) Auction Lists I, II, III & IV for February 2002

b) Scrap Lists I, II & III for February 2002

c) Disposal and Demolition of One (1) Portable Classroom at Navy Point Elementary

9.  Impact Aid Resolution

10.  Financial Status Report

C.  HUMAN RESOURCE SERVICES

(Supplementary Minute Book, Exhibit “E”)

Approved:

1.  Instructional/Professional

a.  Appointments

NAME           POSITION      DATE      WORK LOCATION

Bicasan, Alvin  law enf ins   01/03/02  George Stone (part-time)

Garman, Kimberly   teacher    01/25/02      Escambia Westgate

Henry-Slater, Michel    teacher    01/17/02    Special Education

Thrower, Tina      teacher          01/28/02      Byrneville

b.   Reappointments

1.   Annual

-none

2.  Professional

-none

3.   4^th Year Annual

-none

c.  Transfers

NAME      FROM            TO                  DATE

Bonner, Sarah   Washington      Beulah      01/28/02

Orlich, Shelley   Byrneville   Ferry Pass Mid  01/07/02

d.   Out-of-Field

1.   Appointments

-none

2.     Reappointments

-none

3.  Transfers

-none

4.  Other

-none

e.  Resignations/Retirements

NAME      POSITION      WORK LOCATION      DATE

Baines, Eris      teacher      Escambia          01/10/02 (Dis Ret)

Chester, Sharon      teacher      Hallmark        01/25/02

Garvey, Angela      teacher     Beggs             02/04/02

Gibbs, Gregory   coordinator    Risk Management    02/15/02

Hedin, Blythe   teacher on LOA   West Pensacola   01/04/02 (Dis Ret)

Johnson, Susan   teacher    Brentwood Elem        12/18/01

Schwartz, Pamela    teacher    Ferry Pass Elem   02/15/02 (Ret)

Smith, Pamela      teacher on LOA      Beulah      01/09/02 (Ret)

f.   Special Requests

1.   Request approval for leave of absence without pay for the following personnel:

*Chimiak, Rita       teacher/Beggs           11/19/01-02/28/02

*Eby, Catherine     teacher/Escambia       02/06/02-05/28/02

*Kennedy, Linda      teacher/Washington     01/25/02-04/18/02

*Parker, Daniel      Maintenance                  01/08/02-04/04/02

*Petersen, Melissa    teacher/Warrington Elem  02/04/02-04/05/02

*Pulford, Carolyn      teacher/Tate        02/13/02-05/28/02

*Rembert, Cheryl      teacher/Tate      02/04/02-05/28/02

*Webb, Kimberly      teacher/Special Ed   01/14/02-05/28/02

*FMLA

2.   Correct resignation date for Berna Milton, teacher at Escambia Westgate Center to read

January 4, 2002 (Resignation was originally approved at January 15, 2002 Regular Meeting)

2.   Educational Support Personnel

a.   Appointments

-No items submitted

b.  Resignations/Retirements

NAME     JOB TITLE      EFF DATE      LOCATION

Evans, Tavares      Teacher Asst      01/18/02      Edgewater

Hall, Brooks (Ret)  Custodial Wkr I  01/31/02  Ferry Pass Midle

Hawkins, Jason (Ret)  Custodial Wkr I   01/24/02  Woodham

Henderson, Lorraine (Ret)    Food Serv Asst I    01/31/02      Escambia

Huff, Cynthia   Food Serv Asst I   01/22/02  Pensacola High

Ice, Dorothy  Food Serv Asst I   01/18/02  Warrington Elem

Johnson, Elizabet  School Bus Operator   01/25/02  Transportation

Lindt, Lois   School Bus Operator   08/14/01      Transportation

ADD      Sims, Craig    Custodial Wkr I   02/19/02      Warrington Elem

Thompson, Sandra      Admin Clerk II      01/10/02      Montclair

Williams, Annie (Ret)      Custodial Wkr I      01/10/02      Pine Forest

Young, Kennedy (Ret)      Storekpr/Warehs Tech II      01/23/02     Central Warehouse

Young-Howell, Celia      School Bus Operator      01/04/02     Transportation

Zaben, Viola (Ret)      Benefits Specialist      01/31/02      Risk Management

c.   Terminations

NAME      JOB TITLE      EFF DATE      LOCATION

Allbritton, Dianna     Custodial Wkr I      01/04/02      Brownsville

Bronson, Edna   Custodial Wkr I      01/15/02      Myrtle Grove

Cunningham, T (Deceased)    School Bus Operator      12/20/01      Transportation

Westmoreland, Cynthia   Custodial Wkr I   1/25/02   Ransom

d.   Suspensions

ADD     -Employee #5501-0031-1, Custodial Worker I at Jim Allen Elementary, suspended without pay for five (5) working days effective February 20, 2002 for misconduct

e.   Dismissals

DELETED   -Employee #5501-0551-5, Custodial Worker I at Warrington Elementary, suspended without pay effective February 20, 2002 and terminated effective March 21, 2002 for misconduct

ADD   -Employee #5221-9620-18, Heavy Equipment Mechanic at Transportation Garage, suspended without pay effective February 20, 2002 and terminated effective March 21, 2002 for misconduct and violation of the district’s drug-free workplace policy

f.   Leave of Absence

Adams, Helen   Tea Asst Spec/Dixon  02/08/02-04/19/02      Professional

Brooks, Myrtice (Ext)  Tea Asst Spec/Transp    02/01/02-05/23/02    Medical

Campbell, Pamela (Ext)      Sch Bus Op/Transp    01/08/02-02/28/02      Personal*

Clemons, Charlotte (Ext)      Tea Asst/Bailey      01/05/02-05/23/02     Personal

Doren, Christine      Tea Asst Spec/Sherwood      01/14/02-05/23/02     Personal

Gordon, Gloria (Ext)    Food Serv Asst I/PHS     01/11/02-01/31/02      Medical*

Harrison, Sharon (Ext)    Food Serv Asst I/Brent Mid    01/05/02-03/01/02      Medical

Hayes, Karen (Ext)      Tea Asst/Jim Allen     01/02/02-05/23/02 Professional

Hill, Roosevelt      Custodial Wkr I/PHS     12/10/01-02/11/02     Medical*

Johnson, Judith    Tea Asst/Lincoln Park      02/01/02-04/19/02      Professional

Lewis, Arda (Ext)      Tea Asst Spec/Brn-Barge      11/17/01-05/23/02     Personal

Schninker, Patricia    Adm Clerk II/Longleaf      01/10/02-05/28/02      Personal

Smiley, Inez      Custodial Wkr I/Navy Pt      01/22/02-03/29/02      Medical

St. Clair, Elizabeth     Tea Asst Spec/Petree      01/08/02-04/19/02     Professional

Watson, Peggy (Ext)     Tea Asst/Navy Point      01/08/02-05/23/02      Personal

*FMLA

g. Special Requests

-No items submitted

3.   Risk Management

a.   Trailer Resident – Security at Washington High School

4.  Employee Services

-No items submitted

5.   Affirmative Action

-No items submitted

D.   Purchasing

(Supplementary Minute Book, Exhibit “F”)

Approved:

1.   Bid Award:  Insurance Brokerage and Consulting Services, RFP #021101

2.   Bid Award:  Maintenance Vehicles, Bid #021403

3.   Bid Award:  Classroom and Office Supplies, Bid #021203

4.   Bid Award: Exterior Door Replacement, Bid #021502

5.   Annual Agreement Extension:  Teacher Applicant/Certification System Software Maintenance and Support

6.   Buckstaff Media Center Furniture for Montclair Elementary School

7.   ITI Microcomputers for School Technology Classrooms

8.  Dell Microcomputer Servers for Various Sites

9.  Change Notice #1 to Purchase Order #229642 (Buckstaff Company)

10.  Unauthorized Purchase of Repair Services

11.  Unauthorized Purchase of Videos

12.  Bid Award:  Phase II Renovations at Longleaf Elementary and McArthur Elementary Schools

13.  Bid Award:  General Renovations and Additions at Ferry Pass Middle School

14.   Bid Award:  Installation of VAV Ductwork at the J.E. Hall Educational Center

15.   Architectural Services:  West Florida High School Roof Replacement

16.   Engineering/Surveying Services:  Parking and Bus Loading Improvements at Sherwood Elementary School

17.  Asbestos Abatement:  Removal and Disposal of Floor Tile at Semmes Elementary School

18.  Computer Network Retrofit for McArthur Elementary School

AMENDED        

19.  Floor Covering at Longleaf and McArthur Elementary Schools

20.    Change Notice #1 to Purchase Order #230102 (R.D. Ward Construction, Inc.)

21.  Change Notice #1 to Purchase Order #226610 (All South Subcontractors, Inc.)

ADD     22.   Agreements for a Fiber Optic Metropolitan Wide Network

 Motion was made by Mrs. Stidham “not to approve the Agreements for a Fiber Optic Metropolitan Wide Network.” Mr. Bergosh seconded the motion for purposes of discussion.

Mrs. Stidham stated that while she believed this project would save the District money in the “long-run”, she had concerns that the District did not have the financial ability to implement this now.  Dr. DeWitt stated that the Citizens Advisory Committee (CAC) for Curriculum and Technology unanimously recommended approval of this item.  He believed that this was a great opportunity for the District to “move forward" with technology and stated that he would support approval of the item rather than the motion on the floor.  Upon inquiry by Mr. Bergosh, Dr. DeWitt stated that the agreement would be funded by federal “E-Rate” funds.  Mr. Bergosh stated that although he had concerns regarding the funding, he would support the approval of the item rather than the motion on the floor.  Upon inquiry by Dr. Jenkins, Mrs. Barbara Linker, Assistant Superintendent for Finance and Business Affairs, explained that while the provision to “opt-out” does exist, choosing that option was similar to “defaulting on a loan” which would have negative impact on the District’s credit rating.  Mrs. Linker stated that while she is not opposed to approval of this item, she did want to advise the Board that if “E-Rate” funding ceased to exist, they would be “looking to” the General Fund for payment.  Ms. Finkelstein believed that this item would provide the District with the ability to “do more, technology-wise” and therefore, she would support approval of the item rather than the motion on the floor.  Motion “not to approve the Agreements for a Fiber Optic Metropolitan Wide Network” failed 4 to 1, with Mr. Bergosh, Dr. DeWitt, Ms. Finkelstein and Dr. Jenkins voting “No.”   Motion to approve the Agreements for a Fiber Optic Metropolitan Wide Network, was made by Dr. Jenkins and seconded by Ms. Finkelstein.  Dr. DeWitt offered a “friendly amendment” that approval be subject to review and approval by General Counsel. Dr. Jenkins and Ms. Finkelstein accepted the “friendly amendment.”  Amended motion was approved 4 to 1, with Mrs. Stidham voting “No.”

ADD     

23.   Emergency Purchase:  Variable Frequency Drives – Purchase Order #233511

E.   Operations

(Supplementary Minute Book, Exhibit “G”)

Approved:

1.  Facilities Planning

A.  Final Payments

1.   Additions and Renovations at Tate High School

2.  Fire Alarm Replacement and Expansion at Pleasant Grove Elementary School

3.  Electrical Distribution Improvements at Oakcrest Elementary School

4.  Site Work and Bus Loop at Edgewater Elementary School

B.   Miscellaneous

1.  Sale of Navy Boulevard Property to Patwill Company, Inc.

DELETED  2.  Snoezelan ProjectWestgate Agreement between Escambia County and Escambia County School Board

3.  McDavid Resource Center Lease Agreement

2.  Transportation

A.   Miscellaneous

1.  Donation of School Bus to Beulah Academy

3.   Maintenance

-No items submitted

4.  School Food Services

-No items submitted

F.  Student Transfers

(Supplementary Minute Book, Exhibit “H”)

G.  Internal Auditing

(Supplementary Minute Book, Exhibit “I”)

Approved:     

1.  Internal Funds

-No items submitted

2.  Inventory Adjustment Reports

3.  Other

-No items submitted

VI.   UNFINISHED BUSINESS (PREVIOUSLY TABLED ITEMS OR ITEMS POSTPONED UNTIL CURRENT MEETING)

VII.  NEW BUSINESS

A.  PROPOSED ADDITIONS OR REVISIONS TO SCHOOL DISTRICT RULES

(Supplementary Minute Book, Exhibit “J”)

a.  Permission to Advertise

1.  School Board Rule 6Gx17-2.17(4) – SICK LEAVE

Motion was made by Dr. Jenkins, seconded by Ms. Finkelstein, to approve for advertising, School Board Rule 6Gx17-2.17(4) – Sick Leave.  Motion to approve for advertising was unanimous.

b.  Permission to Adopt

1.   School Board Rule 6Gx17-3.02(4) – ATTENDANCE ZONE GRANDPARENTING PROVISIONS

Motion was made by Ms. Finkelstein, seconded by Dr. Jenkins, to adopt School Board Rule 6Gx17-3.02(4) – Attendance Zone Grandparenting Provisions.

Dr. DeWitt called for public hearing regarding the adoption of School Board Rule 6Gx17-3.02(4) – Attendance Zone Grandparenting Provisions however, there were no speakers.  Motion to adopt was unanimous.

B.   ITEMS FROM THE BOARD

(Supplementary Minute Book, Exhibit “K”)

1.  Request to Appoint Dr. Elmer Jenkins to the Board of Directors for the Community Action Program Committee, Inc.

Motion made by Ms. Finkelstein, seconded by Mr. Bergosh, to appoint Dr. Elmer Jenkins to the Board of Directors for the Community Action Program Committee, Inc., was unanimous.

DELETED   2.   Lease Purchase Program – John DeWitt

DELETED   3.  Reconsideration of New K-8 School – Linda Finkelstein

4.   Board Direction to Staff Regarding the One-Half Cent Sales Tax Resolution – Cary Stidham

Mrs. Stidham moved “that the Board direct the Superintendent, to develop for the Board’s consideration, a list of potential projects to be funded by the One-Half Cent Sales Tax.  The list of potential projects shall be limited only to fixed capital expenditures/costs associated with the construction, reconstruction or improvement of school facilities and campuses, which have a useful life expectancy of five (5) or more years and retro-fitting and technology implementation and any land acquisition land improvement design and engineering costs related thereto.”  Motion was seconded by Dr. Jenkins.  Mrs. Stidham stated that the language outlined in her motion was the same language contained in the One-Half Cent Sales Tax Resolution previously approved by voters.  She clarified that her motion was simply a direction to the Superintendent to limit the list of potential projects to be funded by the One-Half Cent Sales Tax to only those related to school facilities and campuses.  Dr. DeWitt wanted assurance that the motion as outlined, would allow “wireless connections” between schools, as that technology would affect education at school facilities and campuses.  Mr. Bergosh believed that the Board had been “good stewards” with the One-Half Cent Sales Tax funds and because he did not want the Board to be “limited” on how the money could be spent,  he would not support the motion.  Ms. Finkelstein believed that having a very distinct list, from which the Board could not vary would give voters confidence and assurance needed to extend the One-Half Cent Sales Tax.  Dr. Jenkins believed that the Board should not be limited to the point where no modification could be made, but rather have some “wiggle room in case something comes up” as it relates to the benefit of students.  Dr. DeWitt offered a “friendly amendment” that the motion include the establishment of “wireless connections” between schools as an interpretation under technology.  Mrs. Stidham and Dr. Jenkins accepted the “friendly amendment.”  Mr. Negron noted that State Statute (Section 212) “limits spending to capital expenditures and capital costs related to school facilities and school campuses” and also contains a portion that permits “the improvement of technology processes and so forth.”  In his opinion, the Board would not be able to use any funds for administrative facilities in any event.  Amended motion was approved 3 to 2, with Dr. Jenkins and Mr. Bergosh voting “No.”

DELETED      5.   Board Direction to Staff Regarding Providing for Teacher Training as Part of Recruitment/Retention of Beginning Teachers – Cary Stidham (discussed at February 15, 2002 Regular Workshop)

6. Resolution for Navy League Civic Awards Recognition

Resolution

WHEREAS, the first Navy volunteer program was established between NAS Pensacola and the Escambia County School District in 1983; and

WHEREAS, over 20 military commands have established partnerships with local schools in the Escambia County School District; and

WHEREAS, the men and women who serve in the military forces provide countless hours of volunteer service each year to students and teachers; and

WHEREAS, 50 military personnel from the Army, Navy, Air Force and Marines stationed at Corry Field participate as tutors with fourth and fifth grade students in the Saturday Scholars Program; and

WHEREAS, over 100 military volunteers serve as Youth Motivator Mentors and are matched one-on-one with students who spend one hour a week at the schools; and

WHEREAS, military men and women who volunteer in our schools are an integral part of the education of the schools;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the School Board of Escambia County does hereby proclaim Thursday, February 22, 2002 as

MILITARY RECOGNITION DAY

in Escambia County Schools.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that a copy of this resolution be spread upon the minutes of the regular meeting of said Board.

Motion by Ms. Finkelstein, seconded by Dr. Jenkins, to adopt the Resolution for Navy League Civic Awards Recognition, was unanimous.

ADD      7.    Request Approval of Addendum to Agreement with United Group Programs, Inc. – Linda Finkelstein

Ms. Finkelstein moved that the agreement made between United Group Programs, Inc. and the Escambia County School District that was effective January 1, 2002 be amended with the “Administrative Services Agreement Addendum 1.”  Motion was seconded by Dr. Jenkins.  Ms. Finkelstein explained that the addendum would allow employees to use a “promissory note” in lieu of payment for dental services.  Motion was unanimously approved.

ADD       8.   Reaffirm Board Action Regarding “Selection Criteria for Brown Barge Middle School” (as of  October 16, 2001 Regular Meeting) – Linda Finkelstein

Ms. Finkelstein moved “that the Board direct the Superintendent effective immediately to fill all available student slots at Brown Barge Middle School for a total student enrollment at 518 by offering students who have been wait-listed the opportunity to fill any student vacancies.”  Dr. DeWitt seconded the motion for purposes of discussion.  Ms. Finkelstein explained that the intent of her motion was to reaffirm Board Action (as of October 16, 2001 Regular Meeting) that had not been set forth by staff.  She stated that Dr. Alan Scott, Director of Secondary Education, had advised her that students must be in their “seats” for FTE count during the months of October and February, otherwise their FCAT scores will not count towards a “school grade.”  She had concerns that many “student transfers” to other schools had been approved between November 2001 and January 2002, which would mean that those students’ FCAT scores also would not count towards a “school grade.”  She noted that not all parents of students’ on the “waiting-list” for Brown Barge may be interested in transferring at this point, but believed that the decision should be placed with the parents rather than administration.  Dr. Jenkins expressed his concern that even if a student is transferred from one school to another, his or her grade should still count towards a “school grade.”  The Superintendent believed that administrators should have a “say” regarding the timing of student transfers, noting that “mid-semester transfers” could be difficult for students. He also believed that the issue of “mid-semester” transfers needed to be thoroughly reviewed.  He noted that of the “many student transfers” that Ms. Finkelstein mentioned, a vast majority was due to hardship.  He believed that the issue at hand, regarding the FCAT was a very important issue that could have a significant impact on “school grades.”  Mrs. Stidham stated that while she believed in the concept of  “parental choice,” in reality that was not always possible.  She believed that with the FCAT only a few weeks away, the students on the “waiting-list” for Brown Barge needed to stay in their “home” school to take the FCAT and afterwards, allow parents to transfer their students, if they so choose.  Mr. Bergosh stated that although the agreement with staff (in October) was not implemented, he believed that with the current FCAT situation students should not be transferred and therefore, he would not support the motion.

The Board recognized Mrs. Gail Husbands, who expressed her concerns regarding FCAT testing as it relates to “school grades.”

Dr. DeWitt agreed with the Superintendent that the issue of “student transfers” needed to be reviewed thoroughly and hoped that the Superintendent would recommend a clear policy in the future, for dealing with that issue.  He believed that the parents of the students on the “waiting-list” should be informed of the issues regarding the FCAT, however the choice to transfer to Brown Barge should be decided by the parent.  He stated that he would support the motion based on his belief in parental “choice.”  Motion was approved 3 to 2, with Mr. Bergosh and Mrs. Stidham voting “No.”

ADD     9.   Request Placement of In-Service Half-Days into the School District Calendar for the 2002-2003 school year  – Linda Finkelstein

Ms. Finkelstein moved “that the Board request the Superintendent to direct staff to insert the six (6) half-days into the school calendar for the 2002-2003 school year.”  Motion was seconded by Mrs. Stidham.  Ms. Finkelstein stated that she had added this item based upon concerns expressed by staff and teachers regarding this issue.  Dr. DeWitt stated that the School District Calendar for the 2002-2003 school year, with the insertion of the six (6) half-days, should be placed on the agenda for the March Regular Meeting for final approval.  Mr. Bergosh stated that he had received some requests that half-days be eliminated due to the current budget situation, in an effort to save money.  He believed however, that eliminating half-days would actually cause the District to lose money (due to FTE days) and because he believed there was great support for the half-days amongst the teachers and the administration, he would support the motion.  Mrs. Stidham stated that she would like to be able to have full-days but noted that the District is not financially capable of doing so at this time.  Ms. Finkelstein and Dr. DeWitt believed that the issue of full-days rather than half-days should be reviewed through collaborative bargaining.  Motion was unanimously approved.

C.   ITEMS FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT

(Supplementary Minute Book, Exhibit “L”)

1.  Administrative Appointments

The Superintendent presented his recommendations to the Board, for Administrative Appointments.

NAME                     FROM                                        TO                                DATE

Riddle, Janet        Curriculum Coord/Beulah       Asst Elem Principal/McArthur           2/04/02

Ziemba, Mary     Child Find Spec/FDLRS      Coord/FL Inclusion Network/ESE     2/25/02

Ms. Finkelstein moved to accept the Superintendent’s recommendations for Administrative Appointments, as presented.  Motion was seconded by Dr. Jenkins and unanimously approved. At the request of the Superintendent, those individuals came forward to be recognized by the Board.

2.    Student Recommendations

Motion by Dr. Jenkins, second by Ms. Finkelstein, to approve the Superintendent’s recommendations for student expulsions, Items 1 through 18, was unanimous.

1. Recommend that the Superintendent’s recommendation for expulsion for student number

02-29-521 for the remainder of the 2001-2002 school year be withdrawn.

2. Recommend that, consistent with the decision of the due process committee, student number 02-60-951 be expelled from all public schools of Escambia County for the remainder of the 2001-2002 school year and all of the 2002-2003 school year.  It is further recommended that the student be given the option to enroll, if qualified and if space is available, in an alternative educational program exclusive of regular school placement.  Placement to be at the discretion of the Superintendent and to be available as an alternative during the full expulsion time frame.

3. Recommend that, consistent with the decision of the due process committee, student number 02-82-061 be expelled from all public schools of Escambia County for the remainder of the 2001-2002 school year and all of the 2002-2003 school year.  It is further recommended that the student be given the option to enroll, if qualified and if space is available, in an alternative educational program exclusive of regular school placement.  Placement to be at the discretion of the Superintendent and to be available as an alternative during the full expulsion time frame.

4.  Recommend that, consistent with the decision of the due process committee, student number 02-83-411 be expelled from all public schools of Escambia County for the remainder of the 2001-2002 school year and all of the 2002-2003 school year.  It is further recommended that the student be given the option to enroll, if qualified and if space is available, in an alternative educational program exclusive of regular school placement.  Placement to be at the discretion of the Superintendent and to be available as an alternative during the full expulsion time frame.

5.   Recommend that, consistent with the decision of the due process committee, student number 02-84-281 be expelled from all public schools of Escambia County for the remainder of the 2001-2002 school year.  It is further recommended that the student be given the option to enroll, if qualified and if space is available, in an alternative educational program exclusive of regular school placement.  Placement to be at the discretion of the Superintendent and to be available as an alternative during the full expulsion time frame.

6.   Recommend that, consistent with the decision of the due process committee, student number 02-88-121 be expelled from all public schools of Escambia County for the remainder of the 2001-2002 school year and all of the 2002-2003 school year.  It is further recommended that the student be given the option to enroll, if qualified and if space is available, in an alternative educational program exclusive of regular school placement.  Placement to be at the discretion of the Superintendent and to be available as an alternative during the full expulsion time frame.

7.  Recommend that, consistent with the decision of the due process committee, student number 02-89-951 be expelled from all public schools of Escambia County for the remainder of the 2001-2002 school year and all of the 2002-2003 school year.  It is further recommended that the student be given the option to enroll, if qualified and if space is available, in an alternative educational program exclusive of regular school placement.  Placement to be at the discretion of the Superintendent and to be available as an alternative during the full expulsion time frame.

8.  Recommend that, consistent with the decision of the due process committee, student number 02-90-951 be expelled from all public schools of Escambia County for the remainder of the 2001-2002 school year and all of the 2002-2003 school year.  It is further recommended that the student be given the option to enroll, if qualified and if space is available, in an alternative educational program exclusive of regular school placement.  Placement to be at the discretion of the Superintendent and to be available as an alternative during the full expulsion time frame.

9.  Recommend that, consistent with the decision of the due process committee, student number 02-91-061 be expelled from all public schools of Escambia County for the remainder of the 2001-2002 school year.  It is further recommended that the student be given the option to enroll, if qualified and if space is available, in an alternative educational program exclusive of regular school placement.  Placement to be at the discretion of the Superintendent and to be available as an alternative during the full expulsion time frame.

10.  Recommend that, consistent with the decision of the due process committee, student number 02-92-791 be expelled from all public schools of Escambia County for the remainder of the 2001-2002 school year.  It is further recommended that the student be given the option to enroll, if qualified and if space is available, in an alternative educational program exclusive of regular school placement.  Placement to be at the discretion of the Superintendent and to be available as an alternative during the full expulsion time frame.

11.   Recommend that, consistent with the decision of the due process committee, student number 02-93-601 be expelled from all public schools of Escambia County for the remainder of the 2001-2002 school year and all of the 2002-2003 school year.  It is further recommended that the student be given the option to enroll, if qualified and if space is available, in an alternative educational program exclusive of regular school placement.  Placement to be at the discretion of the Superintendent and to be available as an alternative during the full expulsion time frame.

12.  Recommend that, consistent with the decision of the due process committee, student number 02-95-181 be expelled from all public schools of Escambia County for the remainder of the 2001-2002 school year and all of the 2002-2003 school year.  It is further recommended that the student be given the option to enroll, if qualified and if space is available, in an alternative educational program exclusive of regular school placement.  Placement to be at the discretion of the Superintendent and to be available as an alternative during the full expulsion time frame.

13.  Recommend that, consistent with the decision of the due process committee, student number 02-97-171 be expelled from all public schools of Escambia County for the remainder of the 2001-2002 school year and all of the 2002-2003 school year.  It is further recommended that the student be given the option to enroll, if qualified and if space is available, in an alternative educational program exclusive of regular school placement.  Placement to be at the discretion of the Superintendent and to be available as an alternative during the full expulsion time frame.

14.  Recommend that, consistent with the decision of the due process committee, student number 02-98-591 be expelled from all public schools of Escambia County for the remainder of the 2001-2002 school year.  It is further recommended that the student be given the option to enroll, if qualified and if space is available, in an alternative educational program exclusive of regular school placement.  Placement to be at the discretion of the Superintendent and to be available as an alternative during the full expulsion time frame.

15.  Recommend that, consistent with the decision of the due process committee, student number 02-99-521 be expelled from all public schools of Escambia County for the remainder of the 2001-2002 school year and all of the 2002-2003 school year.  It is further recommended that the student be given the option to enroll, if qualified and if space is available, in an alternative educational program exclusive of regular school placement.  Placement to be at the discretion of the Superintendent and to be available as an alternative during the full expulsion time frame.

16.   Recommend that, consistent with the decision of the due process committee, student number 02-109-862 be expelled from all public schools of Escambia County for the remainder of the 2001-2002 school year.  It is further recommended that the student be given the option to enroll, if qualified and if space is available, in an alternative educational program exclusive of regular school placement.  Placement to be at the discretion of the Superintendent and to be available as an alternative during the full expulsion time frame.

17.  Recommend that, consistent with the decision of the due process committee, student number 02-110-862 be expelled from all public schools of Escambia County for the remainder of the 2001-2002 school year and all of the 2002-2003 school year.  It is further recommended that the student be given the option to enroll, if qualified and if space is available, in an alternative educational program exclusive of regular school placement.  Placement to be at the discretion of the Superintendent and to be available as an alternative during the full expulsion time frame.

18.   Recommend that, consistent with the decision of the due process committee, student number 02-111-862 be expelled from all public schools of Escambia County for the remainder of the 2001-2002 school year and all of the 2002-2003 school year.  It is further recommended that the student be given the option to enroll, if qualified and if space is available, in an alternative educational program exclusive of regular school placement.  Placement to be at the discretion of the Superintendent and to be available as an alternative during the full expulsion time frame.

ADD       3.  Recommend that employee number 863970 be suspended without pay pending the outcome of a criminal investigation and the district investigation into allegations of misconduct as more specifically noticed to the employee.

Motion by Ms. Finkelstein, second by Mr. Bergosh, to approve the Superintendent’s recommendation that employee number 863970 be suspended without pay pending the outcome of a criminal investigation and the district investigation into allegations of misconduct as more specifically noticed to the employee, was unanimous.

D. ITEMS FROM THE GENERAL COUNSEL

-No items submitted

VIII.  ADJOURNMENT

There being no further business, the meeting adjourned at 7:32 p.m.

Attest:           

Approved:

________________________________

________________________________

Superintendent          Chairman