ESCAMBIA COUNTY, FLORIDA
MINUTES, JANUARY 21, 2003
The School Board of Escambia County, Florida, convened in Public Forum at 5:30 p.m., in Room 160, at the J.E. Hall Educational Services Center, 30 East Texar Drive, Pensacola, Florida, with the following present:
Chair: Ms. Linda Finkelstein
Vice Chair: Mr. Gary L. Bergosh
Board Members: Mrs. Cary Stidham
Mr. Ronnie L. Clark
Dr. John DeWitt
School Board Attorney: Mr. Francisco M. Negron, Jr.
Superintendent of Schools: Mr. Jim Paul
Ms. Finkelstein called the Public Forum to order at 5:30 p.m.
INVOCATION AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Mrs. Peggy Pilcher gave the invocation and Mr. Bergosh led the pledge of allegiance.
Mr. Bergosh took the opportunity to announce his recent “call to active duty” as a Marine Corps Reserve officer. He noted that he was working with the Governor’s office and Superintendent to “ensure as little disruption to the District as possible from these events.” He also expressed appreciation for the community’s support.
PUBLIC FORUM
Ms. Finkelstein made the following statement regarding the role of the community during public forum:
“As we all know, the purpose of the School Board meeting is to transact the business of the public school system. Because this Board, and this Superintendent believe in the value of community input in our public discourse, the School Board has, for many years, included a public forum at the beginning of every meeting – to provide an opportunity for the public to express its views about education and the public school system to the entire Board and the Superintendent in one setting. This Board and this Superintendent value our citizen’s concerns; we value your insight, your recommendations and your opinions about public education. We want to know how you feel about proposals we are to consider, we want to hear your views about how we are doing and how we can do it better. You are an important part of this representative government. In fulfilling your part in representative government, you the public, must also share in the responsibility that comes with all democratic discourse – the obligation to be truthful, to be clear and to be a person of integrity. To that end, I encourage you to speak candidly, passionately and firmly about your views. I encourage you to feel free to disagree with us, but I also encourage you to speak to us with information, logic and reason. I think I speak for my colleagues, when I say that like many of you, we listen best when discourse is free from acrimony and personal attacks. I pledge to you as Chair, that this Board and this Superintendent will strive diligently to ensure that your concerns are heard and that we will extend to you the courtesy and respect to which you are entitled as a vital player in the democratic process. We ask that you join with us in this pledge to ensure that the dialogue is open, frank and most importantly productive for all. Again, let me thank the public and all the speakers tonight in advance, for your gracious cooperation and your assistance in making us all proud of the high quality of our democratic discourse. Remember that we are all here because we value public education, we are all here because we care about the future of our children’s lives, and we are all here for the students. This Board, the Superintendent and I, look forward to hearing from the public not only tonight, but in future meetings to come, as we continue to work together to safeguard the integrity and quality of our democratic process.” The Superintendent noted that he agreed with and appreciated the statement made by Ms. Finkelstein, noting that “every word of it expresses how I feel on this issue also.”
The Board recognized the following speakers who addressed various subjects:
(Supplementary Minute Book, Exhibit “A”)
Name Issue
Roy Crutchfield Student Dress Code (Item VII.A.a.1)
Bob Bell Student Dress Code (Item VII.A.a.1)
Allen Lee Student Dress Code (Item VII.A.a.1)
Sheree Domine Student Dress Code (Item VII.A.a.1)
I. CALL TO ORDER
Ms. Finkelstein called the Regular Meeting to order at 5:50 p.m.
II. ADOPTION OF AGENDA
The Superintendent listed the additions, deletions, amendments and corrections to the agenda. (see margin notes) On motion made by Mrs. Stidham and seconded by Dr. DeWitt, adoption of the agenda as amended, was unanimously approved.
III. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
1. 12-12-02 SPECIAL MEETING
2. 12-12-02 SPECIAL WORKSHOP
DELETED
3. 12-12-02 REGULAR WORKSHOP
4. 12-12-02 IMPASSE
DELETED 5. 12-17-02
REGULAR MEETING
Motion made by Dr. DeWitt, seconded by Mr. Clark, to approve the minutes for the December 12, 2002 Special Meeting (Item 1), December 12, 2002 Special Workshop (Item 2), and the December 12, 2002 Impasse (Item 4), was unanimous.
IV. COMMITTEE/DEPARTMENTAL REPORTS
1. Stellar Employee Recognition
The Superintendent announced that Ms. Trish Antonelli, Administrative Clerk II, Exceptional Student Education Department (at Washington High School), was the Stellar Employee for the month of January. Ms. Antonelli received 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. Debbie King, Vice 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 and the Superintendent for their support.
3. Citizens Advisory Committee (CAC) for Finance – Gary Bergosh
Mr. Bergosh stated that the committee had discussed items relating to “finance” and “purchasing” that were pending for this meeting.
4. Citizens Advisory Committee (CAC) for Facilities – Cary Stidham
Mrs. Stidham stated that the committee met at Ensley Elementary School to take a look at the newly constructed media center that was made possible by funds from the ‘One-Half Cent Sales Tax’. The committee discussed the potential projects to be funded by the “One-Half Cent Sales Tax Extension” funds, in addition to “facilities” items that were pending for this meeting.
V. CONSENT AGENDA
Ms. Finkelstein requested that Item V.C.3.b be pulled from the Consent Agenda for separate vote. On motion by Dr. DeWitt and second by Mrs. Stidham, the Consent Agenda, except for items pulled, was unanimously approved.
A. Curriculum and Instruction
(Supplementary Minute Book, Exhibit “B”)
Approved:
1. School Advisory Council Additions/Deletions
2. Agreement Between the School Board of Escambia County, Florida, and Literacy Volunteers of America, Inc., ESCAROSA
DELETED 3. Agreement
between Jay Cormier, Independent Contractor, and the School
Board of Escambia County, Florida
B. FINANCE
(Supplementary Minute Book, Exhibit “C”)
Approved:
1. Authorization for payrolls and vouchers for the month of February 2003
2. Check Register for the month of December 2002
3. Financial Statement for the month of December 2002
4. Legal Services:
Summary of all legal expenses
5. Legal Services:
General Fund
a) Hammons, Longoria & Whittaker, P.A. $ 1,247.00
b) Kievit, Kelly & Odom $558.25
c) Kievit, Kelly & Odom $157.50
d) Gregory P. Farrar $550.00
6. Legal Services:
a) Hammons, Longoria & Whittaker, P.A. $15,946.22
b) Hammons, Longoria & Whittaker P.A. $526.50
7. Budget Amendments
a) Resolution 3: General Operating Fund
b) Resolution 3: Other Special Revenue Fund
AMENDED c) Resolution 4: Capital Projects Fund
8. Disposal of Capitalized and Non-Capitalized Assets:
a) Auction Lists I, II, III and IV for January 2003
b) Scrap Lists I and II for January 2003
9. 2002-2003 Miscellaneous Salary Schedule
10. Amendment to Education Lottery Revenue Bond Resolution adopted by the Board on January 27, 1998 (Classrooms First Program)
C. HUMAN RESOURCE SERVICES
(Supplementary Minute Book, Exhibit “D”)
Approved:
1. Instructional/Professional
a. Appointments
NAME POSITION DATE WORK LOCATION
Brown, Charleen teacher 12/16/02 Brownsville
Crawford, Jean RN 12/16/02 Westgate Ctr
Harrison, Ginger Speech Lang Pathologist 12/06/02 Warrington Elem
Hurst, Theodore teacher 01/08/03 George Stone (part-time)
McKinnon, Angelina teacher 12/16/02 Blue Angels
Shugart, Marilyn teacher 01/07/03 Brentwood Mid (part-time)
b. Reappointments
1. Annual
-None
2. Professional
-None
3. 4th Year Annual
-None
c. Transfers
NAME FROM TO DATE
Andrews, Linda Ernest Ward Northview 01/08/03 (part-time)
King, Alfred Clubbs McMillan 01/08/03
Kyle, David Westgate Ctr Semmes 12/12/02
d. Out-of-Field
1. Appointments
Childress, Nichole teacher Ernest Ward 01/13/03
2. Reappointments
-None
3. Transfers
FROM TO DATE
Covington, Gail Pensacola High Lincoln Park 01/07/03
ADD Queen, Diane Bailey Escambia 01/06/03
4. Other
ADD Britt, Marietta Bailey Middle
ADD Putnam, Leslie Wedgewood Middle
e. Resignations/Retirements
Boyd, Arthur Resource Coord George Stone 12/31/02(Ret)
Donnelly, Raymond Mgr/Bus Affairs Admin Bldg 01/31/03 (Ret)
Fairbanks, Stephanie teacher Brentwood Mid 01/07/03
Fulford, Linda teacher Bellview Elem 12/20/02
MacNeil, Wanda Assistant Elem Prin Ferry Pass Elem 12/31/02(Ret)
Madison, Sandra BCE Coord Pine Forest 01/31/03(Ret)
Maines, Susan teacher on LOA Jim Allen 01/06/03
Mason, Sarah Teacher Montclair 12/20/02
Reynolds, Kathy teacher Escambia 12/20/02
Savage, Alton teacher Brownsville 12/09/02
Silverthorne, Claudia RN Westgate Ctr 01/13/03 (Ret)
Sluka, Annmarie teacher Semmes 01/07/03
Tourney, Julie teacher Tate 12/20/02
Underwood, Patricia teacher Hellen Caro 12/20/02(Ret)
Wells, Tonia teacher Warrington Elem 12/20/02
Williams, Marion Comm Sch Coord Woodham 01/31/03 (Ret)
f. Special Requests
1. Request approval for leave of absence without pay for the following personnel:
Crosby, Patricia teacher/Lincoln Park 01/06/03-05/28/03
*Padgett, Dynita teacher/Weis 12/17/02-01/10/03
*Romano, Nancy speech therapist/Holm 01/06/03-01/17/03
*FMLA
2. The following instructional personnel are returning from leave of absence:
Fowler, Monica Bellview Elem 01/06/03
Johnson, Kathryn Wedgewood 01/06/03
3. Request approval for Brenda Glasser to be a Community Involvement Assistant at Yniestra and Oakcrest Elementary Schools from January 6, 2003 through May 28, 2003. She will be paid $9.00 per hour, 20 hours per week, from the Governor’s Mentoring Initiative Grant.
4. Request approval for Debbie King, Carol Stevenson, and Linda Bishop to continue in their position as Community Involvement Assistants from January 6, 2003 through May 28, 2003, and to be paid from the Governor’s Mentoring Initiative Grant.
5. Request approval for the following instructional personnel who have received military orders for mobilization for Enduring Freedom:
Frankel, Allan teacher/Escambia 02/21/03-05/28/03
Fuehler, Kevin teacher/Bellview Mid 12/19/02-05/28/03
Medeiros, Carol teacher/Holm 01/31/03-05/28/03
6. Correct FMLA on Julia Beverly, teacher with Title I, to read October 23, 2002 through
December 20, 2002. Ms. Beverly returned to her teaching position effective January 6, 2003 as a part-time teacher.
7. Request approval for the following instructional personnel to work in the Beyond the School Day Program beginning November 2002 through May 2003. They are to be paid at their regular hourly rate of pay from Title I funds:
Roby, Deborah Franklin, Bakari
Edwards, Lynnette Gibson, Linda
Eichelberger, Abigail Keating, Pamala
Priest, Katina Timms, Jim
Kerr, Judith Gahlenbeck, Rose
Warren, Glenda
ADD 8. Request approval to adopt the 2003-2004 student calendar
2. Educational Support Personnel
a. Appointments
NAME JOB TITLE EFF DATE LOCATION
Andrews, Kelvin Custodial Worker I 12/17/2002 Washington
Barnett, Cynthia K Tch Asst Spec 12/06/2002 Bellview Mid
Culliver, Lana Z Tch Asst Spec 12/09/2002 Bellview Mid
Evers, Linda Ann Custodial Worker I 12/17/2002 Washington
McGruder, Carolyn L Tch Asst Spec 01/08/2003 Transportation
Rashied, Tuneshia D Custodial Worker I 12/17/2002 Washington
(NOTE: All positions were advertised prior to the hiring freeze and approved to be filled.)
b. Resignations/Retirements
NAME JOB TITLE EFF DATE LOCATION
Adams, Angela S Tch Asst Spec 12/06/2002 Workman
Benjamin, Georgia (Ret) Fd Srvc Asst I 12/31/2002 Brentwood El
Boykins, Wanda Sch Bus Oper 01/07/2003 Transportation
Fanella, Marilyn Tch Assistant 01/03/2003 Navy Point
Fields, Dreama Sch Bus Oper 12/11/2002 Transportation
Gaines, Cynthia (Ret) Fd Srvc Asst II 12/05/2002 Wedgewood
Hassebrock, Terry Hvy Equip Mech 12/11/2002 Transportation
McArthur, Janet Cust Wrkr I 12/09/2002 Barrineau Park
McCullough, Tonia Sch Bus Oper 01/08/2003 Transportation
McQueen Jr, Elias (Ret) Cust Wrkr II 12/31/2002 McArthur
Stromas, Carolyn Cust Wrkr I 12/09/2002 Montclair
Watson, Peggy Tch Assistant 01/06/2003 Molino
c. Terminations
Phillips, Daphine Tch Asst Spec 01/07/2003 Bailey
Portis, Monica Cust Wrkr I 12/10/2002 Northview
d. Suspensions
-None
e. Dismissals
-None
f. Leave of Absence
Fountain, Lula (Ext) Tch Asst/W P’cola 01/01/03-05/22/03 Personal
Gordon, Maria (Ext) CWI/Cordova Park 01/01/03-12/31/03 Personal
Hardy, Sherryle E Sch Bus Oper/Trans 12/02/02-05/22/03 Medical
Morris, Yvonne ECA/McMillan 01/06/03-01/06/04 Professional
Nettles, Jessica Sch Bus Oper/Trans 01/29/03-02/25/03 Medical *
Rudolph, Angela CWI/Pensacola Hi 01/06/03-02/28/03 Maternity *
Travis, Catherine (Ext) CWI/Wedgewood 12/31/02-01/20/03 Maternity
Winslow, Retta (Ext) Sch Bus Oper/Trans 01/01/03-12/31/03 Personal
*FMLA
g. Special Requests
- Reinstate Rhonda Brown, School Bus Operator, Transportation Department, to satisfy return to work agreement effective January 8, 2003.
3. Risk Management
a. Trailer Resident Lease – Oakcrest Elementary
b. Fringe Benefit Management Company – Electronic Enrollment
Motion was made by Ms. Finkelstein, seconded by Mr. Clark, not to approve the “Fringe Benefit Management Company – Electronic Enrollment.” Ms. Finkelstein believed that there was potential for a significant increase in current employee participation (in Flexible Spending Account (FSA) plans), by providing these services in-house. She stated that she was not comfortable approving this item without an analysis of what the District could potentially accrue in FICA savings (from employee participation) for return to general revenue funds if this function remained in-house versus outsourcing. Dr. Doug Garber, Assistant Superintendent for Human Resource Services, explained that “electronic enrollment” services would provide employees with the opportunity to meet individually, with an Fringe Benefit Management Company (FBMC) enrollment counselor, for a complete review of their current coverage, discussion regarding coverage options and the opportunity to make any changes that the employee desires. Dr. DeWitt stated that he initially had concerns regarding this item, however, after discussions with staff, he now believed that the services provided by FBMC would be beneficial to employees and therefore, he would not support the motion on the floor. Upon inquiry by Mrs. Stidham, Mrs. Barbara Linker, Assistant Superintendent for Finance and Business Affairs, clarified that there would be “no net cost to the District” with the approval of this item. She explained that FBMC would receive compensation for one hundred percent (100%) of the FICA savings to the District, arising from the implementation of FSA plans. She noted however, that the District had identified several eligible benefits (i.e., AFLAC) that could be included in the District’s Section 125 Pre-Tax Plan, which would result in savings that would “offset the loss in the current FICA savings.” She explained that in the past, the District had “tried several ways to increase the participation” in FSA plans (i.e., contracted services, in-house) and yet the participation “just has not increased.” She in fact, did not believe that participation would increase “unless there were enough people to sit down one-on-one with employees and explain those benefits (which would be provided by FBMC),” and noted that there was “no way the District could have the staff to do that.” Motion not to approve the “Fringe Benefit Management Company – Electronic Enrollment,” failed 4 to 1, with Mrs. Stidham, Dr. DeWitt, Mr. Bergosh and Mr. Clark voting “No.” Motion by Dr. DeWitt, seconded by Mr. Bergosh, to approve the “Fringe Benefit Management Company – Electronic Enrollment,” was approved 4 to 1, with Ms. Finkelstein voting “No.”
DELETED
c. 457(b) Deferred Compensation Plan
4. Employee Services
a. JOB STUDY FOR EDUCATION SUPPORT PERSONNEL - Memorandum of Understanding between Escambia District School Board, Escambia Education Clerical Classroom Association, Escambia Education Support Personnel Association, and Escambia Association of Supervisor Employees, FEA, NEA-AFT
5. Affirmative Action
-No items submitted
D. Purchasing
(Supplementary Minute Book, Exhibit “E”)
Approved:
1. Bid Award: Consulting Services for Custodial Department, RFP #030902
2. Bid Award: Diesel Truck Purchase, Bid #031503
AMENDED 3. Bid Award: Art Supplies, Bid #031104
4. Bid Extension/Renewal: Annual Agreement for Microfiche Processing, Bid #011103
5. Apple Computers for Brown Barge Middle School
6. Dell Computers for Beggs Educational Center
7. Motorola 2-Way Radios for Transportation Department
8. Change Notice #1 to Purchase Order #239040 (Deaf Communications Specialists and Business Accounting Services)
9. Change Notice #1 to Purchase Order #242463 (Florida Transportation Systems)
10. Change Notice #3 to Purchase Order #231992 (David Volkert & Associates)
11. Bid Award: Bellview Middle School Re-Roofing
12. Annual Contract - District-wide Roof Maintenance & Repair
13. Change Notice #4 to Purchase Order #231996 (Sam Marshall Architects)
14. Change Notice #3 to Purchase Order #232520 (Reynolds Construction Co.)
15. Change Notice #1 to Purchase Order #239245 (A.E. New Jr., Inc.)
16. Change Notice #2 to Purchase Order #238319 (All-South Contractors, Inc.)
17. Land Surveying Services for Phase III Design at West Florida H.S.
18. Five-Year Educational Plant Survey
E. Operations
(Supplementary Minute Book, Exhibit “F”)
Approved:
1. Facilities Planning
A. Final Payments
1. Washington High School Site Lighting
2. Jim Allen Elementary School Classroom Additions and Sherwood Elementary School Additions and site work
3. Longleaf and McArthur Elementary Schools Renovations, Phase II
4. Tate High School General Renovations
5. Ransom Middle School HVAC Renovations
6. Warrington Elementary School General Renovations
B. Miscellaneous
1. Escambia High School Building #3, Phase II Renovations
2. Myrtle Grove Annex located at 5402 Lillian Highway, Pensacola, Florida
3. Pre-Qualification of Contractors
2. Maintenance
-No items submitted
3. Transportation
-No items submitted
4. School Food Services
-No items submitted
F. Student Transfers
(Supplementary Minute Book, Exhibit “G”)
G. Internal Auditing
(Supplementary Minute Book, Exhibit “H”)
Approved:
1. internal Funds
a. Jim Allen Elementary School for fiscal year 2001-02
b. Barrineau Park Elementary School for fiscal year 2001-02
c. Spencer Bibbs Elementary School for fiscal year 2001-02
d. Cordova Park Elementary School for fiscal year 2001-02
e. Escambia High School for fiscal year 2001-02
f. Lincoln Park Elementary School for fiscal year 2001-02
g. McArthur Elementary School for fiscal year 2001-02
h. Pine Forest High School for fiscal year 2001-02
i. Pine Meadow Elementary School for fiscal year 2001-02
j. Suter Elementary School for fiscal year 2001-02
k. Washington High School for fiscal year 2001-02
l. Wedgewood Middle School for fiscal year 2001-02
m. West Pensacola Elementary School for fiscal year 2001-02
Inventory Adjustment Reports
3. Other
-No items submitted
VI. UNFINISHED BUSINESS
-No items submitted
VII. NEW BUSINESS
A. PROPOSED ADDITIONS OR REVISIONS TO SCHOOL DISTRICT RULES
a. Permission to Advertise
1. Notice of Intent to Advertise Amendment to School District Rule 6Gx17-7.02 – Student Dress
[NOTE: This rule requires schools to adopt a district-wide dress code and to establish a school uniform no later than March 31, 2003. School uniforms will be worn by all students beginning with the first day of school in the 2003-2004 school year. School administrators have final authority to decide if clothing complies with district rules. (The issue of “student dress” was previously discussed at the December 17, 2002 Regular Meeting and January 17, 2003 Regular Workshop.)] Motion was made by Dr. DeWitt, seconded by Mr. Clark, to approve for advertising, School District Rule 6Gx17-7.02 – Student Dress. Dr. DeWitt briefly reviewed the proposed rule amendment, which he had prepared in response to input received at the December 17, 2002 Regular Meeting. He explained that if approved for advertisement, there would still be ample time for “fine tuning,” in response to any additional input from stakeholders prior to presentation for final adoption at the February Regular Meeting. He noted that the issue of “student dress” had been discussed for several months and believed that it was “time to begin to make a decision.” Mr. Clark expressed his support of uniforms and stated that a majority of his constituents also favored uniforms. Mr. Bergosh stated that while he and a majority of his constituents favored uniforms, he would not support the motion on the floor, as he believed that additional input from all stakeholders was needed. Mrs. Stidham noted that if approved for advertising, there would be ample time for additional input prior to final adoption at the February Regular Meeting, noting that the proposed rule amendment was “still a fluid document.” The Superintendent stated that while he was not opposed to uniforms, he was concerned with the “timeline” regarding this issue and believed that additional time was needed for further input from all stakeholders.
The Board recognized the following speakers, who expressed their concerns regarding various aspects of this issue: Leslie Cowan, Carolyn Kulb, Judson Searcy, Jon Searcy, Mallory Farrigia, Linda Holt, Sandy Santos, Clinton Powell, Brandi Puryear, Ashley Pearson, Tamieakie Graham, Marcia McCrary, Susan Watson, Doris Hayes, Kathy Breakall, Tami Busbee, Nettie Eaton, Tracey Johnson, John Jerralds, Angel Endicott and Allen Lee.
Ms. Finkelstein stated that she was “not ready to make a decision,” on this “difficult” issue. She was concerned that the Board had not received a recommendation from the Superintendent and concerned that the Superintendent had requested additional time with regard to this issue. Motion by Ms. Finkelstein, seconded by Mr. Bergosh, to table this item (Notice of Intent to Advertise Amendment to School District Rule 6Gx17-7.02 – Student Dress) until the February Regular Meeting, failed 3 to 2, with Mrs. Stidham, Dr. DeWitt and Mr. Clark voting “No.” The original motion, to approve School District Rule 6Gx17 – 7.02 – Student Dress, was approved 3 to 2, with Ms. Finkelstein and Mr. Bergosh voting “No.”
DELETED
2. Notice of Intent to Advertise Amendment to
School District Rule 6Gx17-7.01(4) - Student Transfer
Policy
b. Permission to Adopt
1. Notice of Intent to Adopt Amendment to School District Rule 6Gx17 – 1.07(2) - Audit Committee
(NOTE: This rule incorporates, by reference, the Charter for the Audit Planning and Review Committee. Changes recommended to the rule amend the Charter to clarify several administrative issues and to reflect current trends within the field of Internal Auditing.) Motion was made by Mrs. Stidham, seconded by Mr. Bergosh, to adopt School District Rule 6Gx17-1.07(2) – Audit Committee. Ms. Finkelstein called for public hearing.
The Board recognized Frankie Van Horn, who stated that the concerns she had expressed at the December 17, 2002 Regular Meeting regarding this particular rule amendment, had been rectified through conversations with Mr. Negron. Motion was unanimously approved.
2. Notice of Intent to Adopt “Dixon Educational Center” as the new name for the former A.A. Dixon Elementary School
Motion was made by Mrs. Stidham, seconded by Mr. Bergosh, to adopt “Dixon Educational Center” as the new name for the former A.A. Dixon Elementary School. Ms. Finkelstein called for public hearing, however there were no speakers. Motion was unanimously approved.
3. Notice of Intent to Adopt “Emmitt Smith Field at McArthur Stadium” as the name of the Escambia High School football field
Motion was made by Mrs. Stidham, seconded by Dr. DeWitt, to adopt “Emmitt Smith Field at McArthur Stadium,” as the name of the Escambia High School football field. Ms. Finkelstein called for public hearing, however there were no speakers. Motion was unanimously approved.
AMENDED/ADD 4. Notice of Intent to Adopt Amendment to School District Rule 6Gx17 – 5.05(10) – N.B. Cook Auditorium and Cafeteria Rental
[NOTE: This rule defines the terms and sets the fees for use of the N.B. Cook Elementary School Auditorium and Cafeteria for non-school functions. (This issue was previously discussed at the December 17, 2002 Regular Meeting.)] Motion was made by Mrs. Stidham, seconded by Mr. Clark, to adopt School District Rule 6Gx17 – 5.05(10) – N.B. Cook Auditorium and Cafeteria Rental. Motion was made by Dr. DeWitt to table this item, however, the motion failed for lack of second. Dr. DeWitt explained the rationale for his proposed motion to table this item. He stated that he had not had the opportunity to thoroughly review the amended version of this item, due to lateness of receiving the information. He stated that while he was not necessarily opposed to the item, he would need additional time for further review and therefore, would not support the motion on the floor. Ms. Finkelstein stated that she had not had an opportunity to thoroughly review the amended version of this item, due to the lateness of receiving the information, and therefore, would not support the motion on the floor. Mrs. Barbara Linker, Assistant Superintendent for Finance and Business Affairs, stated that she had researched this issue, as a result of concerns expressed at the December 17, 2002 Regular Meeting, and discovered a “special fiscal accounting procedure” included in similar policies regarding rental of the Katherine Monroe Auditorium (Pensacola High School) and the Aquatic Center (Washington High School). She advised that the same “special fiscal accounting procedure” had been added to this proposed rule amendment for N.B. Cook Elementary, whereby funds (collected from fees charged for rental) would be retained at the school in internal fund accounts from which all costs would be paid. She noted that any significant balance of that fund could be used for improvements and upkeep of the auditorium and cafeteria. Mrs. Stidham stated that while she believed that a portion of the funds collected should be retained at the school, a portion should also revert to the District’s general fund. She believed that the issue “should also be analyzed from the District’s standpoint,” noting that the District “foots the total bill for the electrical costs which could be fairly significant.” In addition, she had concerns with the lateness of receiving the amended version of this item and therefore, would not support the motion on the floor. Motion to adopt School District Rule 6Gx17 – 5.05(10) – N.B. Cook Auditorium and Cafeteria Rental, failed unanimously.
B. ITEMS FROM THE BOARD
-No items submitted
C. ITEMS FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT
1. Student Recommendations
Motion by Dr. DeWitt, seconded by Mr. Bergosh, to approve the Superintendent’s recommendations for student expulsions, Items 1 through 4, Items 6 through 12 and Items 14 though 20, with Item 5 and Item 13 requesting formal hearings, was unanimous.
NOTE: ITEM NUMBER 5 (Student Number 03-78-1231), Requests Formal Hearing
ITEM NUMBER 13 (Student Number 03-87-866), Requests Formal Hearing
(1) Recommend that the previous recommendation for expulsion of student number 02-135-281 for the remainder of the 2001-2002 school year and all of the 2002-2003 school year be amended and that the student be allowed to return to regular school enrollment for the second semester of the 2002-2003 school year.
(2) Recommend that, consistent with the decision of the formal hearing officer, student number 03-48-521, be adopted as the order of the Escambia County School Board and that student be expelled from the public schools of Escambia County for the remainder of the 2002-2003 school year and remain in alternative education placement.
(3) Recommend that, consistent with the decision of the due process committee, student number 03-76-951 be expelled from all public schools of Escambia County for the remainder of the 2002-2003 school year and all of the 2003-2004 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 03-77-121 be expelled from all public schools of Escambia County for the remainder 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.
REQUESTS FORMAL HEARING (5) Recommend that, consistent with the decision of the due process committee, student number 03-78-1231 be expelled from all public schools of Escambia County for the remainder 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.
(6) Recommend that, consistent with the decision of the due process committee, student number 03-80-281 be expelled from all public schools of Escambia County for the remainder 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 03-81-281 be expelled from all public schools of Escambia County for the remainder 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 03-82-851 be expelled from all public schools of Escambia County for the remainder of the 2002-2003 school year and all of the 2003-2004 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 03-83-862 be expelled from all public schools of Escambia County for the remainder of the 2002-2003 school year and all of the 2003-2004 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 03-84-601 be expelled from all public schools of Escambia County for the remainder of the 2002-2003 school year and all of the 2003-2004 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 03-85-1231 be expelled from all public schools of Escambia County for the remainder of the 2002-2003 school year and all of the 2003-2004 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 03-86-951 be expelled from all public schools of Escambia County for the remainder of the 2002-2003 school year and all of the 2003-2004 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.
REQUESTS FORMAL HEARING (13) Recommend that, consistent with the decision of the due process committee, student number 03-87-866 be expelled from all public schools of Escambia County for the remainder of the 2002-2003 school year and all of the 2003-2004 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 03-88-866 be expelled from all public schools of Escambia County for the remainder of the 2002-2003 school year and all of the 2003-2004 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 03-89-951 be expelled from all public schools of Escambia County for the remainder of the 2002-2003 school year and all of the 2003-2004 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 03-90-411 be expelled from all public schools of Escambia County for the remainder of the 2002-2003 school year and all of the 2003-2004 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 03-91-851 be expelled from all public schools of Escambia County for the remainder 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 03-94-851 be expelled from all public schools of Escambia County for the remainder of the 2002-2003 school year and all of the 2003-2004 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.
(19) Recommend that, consistent with the decision of the due process committee, student number 03-95-521 be expelled from all public schools of Escambia County for the remainder of the 2002-2003 school year and all of the 2003-2004 school year. I will 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.
(20) Recommend that, consistent with the decision of the due process committee, student number 03-96-851 be expelled from all public schools of Escambia County for the remainder 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.
2. Recommend that employee number 499317 be suspended without pay for ten (10) working days commencing Wednesday, January 22, 2003 and ending at the completion of the workday on Tuesday, February 4, 2003. The disciplinary action is for misconduct and neglect of duty as more specifically identified in notice letter to the employee of December 4, 2002.
Motion by Dr. DeWitt, seconded by Mrs. Stidham, to approve the Superintendent’s recommendation that employee number 499317 be suspended without pay for ten (10) working days commencing Wednesday, January 22, 2003 and ending at the completion of the workday on Tuesday, February 4, 2003, was unanimously approved.
ADD 3. Recommend that employee number 603773 be suspended without pay in accordance with the Return-to-Work Agreement dated November 26, 2002, until the employee fully complies with the return to work program and is approved to return to work.
Motion was made by Dr. DeWitt, seconded by Mrs. Stidham, to approve the Superintendent’s recommendation that employee number 603773 be suspended without pay in accordance with the Return-to-Work Agreement dated November 26, 2002, until the employee fully complies with the return to work program and is approved to return to work. Motion was unanimously approved.
ADD 4. Recommend that employee number 725068 be suspended with pay effective Wednesday, January 22, 2003, until the next School Board Meeting. This recommendation is based on allegations of misconduct. The approval by the Board of this recommendation for suspension is subject to any right of review the employee may have under the applicable Collective Bargaining Agreement and Chapter 120, Florida Statutes.
Motion by Mrs. Stidham, seconded by Dr. DeWitt, to approve the Superintendent’s recommendation that employee number 725068 be suspended with pay effective Wednesday, January 22, 2003, until the next School Board Meeting, was unanimously approved.
D. ITEMS FROM THE GENERAL COUNSEL
-No items submitted
VIII. ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business, the Regular Meeting adjourned at 7:37 p.m.
Attest: Approved:
Superintendent Chair