November 6, 2006 Board meeting minutes

GOSHEN CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT
BOARD OF EDUCATION

(Back)

An Executive Session of the Members of the Board of Education of the Goshen Central School District, Orange County, New York, was held in the Conference Room at the Main Street School, on Monday, November 6, 2006, at 6:30 p.m. for the purpose of work history of particular employees.

Present Mrs. Judy Green, President
Mr. Michael Stroka, Vice President
Mrs. Martha Bogart
Mr. Robert Kish
Mr. Steve Esposito
Mr. Alvin Watson
Superintendent of Schools Mr. Roy Reese
Assistant Superintendent for Business Mr. Joseph Abbondanza
Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum Mrs. Jane Unhjem

A regular meeting of the Members of the Board of Education of the Goshen Central School District, Orange County, New York was held in the Board of Education Room at the Main Street School on Monday, November 6, 2006 at 7:30 p.m.

Present Mrs. Judy Green, President
Mr. Michael Stroka, Vice President
Mrs. Martha Bogart
Mr. Robert Kish
Mr. Steve Esposito
Absent Mr. Alvin Watson

Superintendent of Schools Mr. Roy Reese
Assistant Superintendent for Business Mr. Joseph Abbondanza
Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum Mrs. Jane Unhjem
Principals:
Mr. Robert Litz, Mr. Kent Maslin, and Mrs. Mary Ann Knight, and Mrs. Daria Murphy
Assistant Principals: Mrs. Patricia Lercara, Mr. John Piscitella, and Ms. Colleen Kane
Director of Buildings & Grounds Mr. James Riley
Director of Athletics Mr. Robert Siracuse
Director of PPS Ms. Barbara Butler
Members of the Faculty, Press and Citizens of the District

The regular meeting was called to order by President, Mrs. Green at 7:40 p.m. Mrs. Green led the Pledge of Allegiance followed by a moment of silent meditation.
On a motion by Robert Kish and seconded by Martha Bogart the Board of Education accepted the draft of minutes of September 18, 2006, October 3, 2006, and October 16, 2006. AYES 6 NAYS 0 Motion carried.

The Treasurer’s Report for August 2006 was acknowledged under Financial Update.

The Board received the following correspondence: New York State Law Book 31st Edition, 2006/07 Staff Directory, Correspondence from Shaw & Perelson on 2004 Reauthorized IDEA, KidsCount Grant Award letter from Senator Larkin, Correspondence from Albany-Colonie Regional Chamber of Commerce, Letter from a Middle School parent complementing Mr. Maslin, Flyer from MHSSC on upcoming Fiscal Responsibility training, Letter from Michael Zaccheo to Board members, NYSSBA Negotiation Impasses Workshop, Memo from Jane Unhjem – SMART Board In-Service Course, New York Blood Center Annual Chairpersons Recognition Luncheon,
District Policy Updates, Mid Hudson School Study Council Newsletter, and various newspaper articles.

Mrs. Green opened Privilege of the Floor.

A community member addressed the Board on a recent environmental grant that the Warwick Central School District won on energy conservation and asked if the District has pursued this type of grant.

A community member addressed the Board on the loss of the Science Olympiad Coach. She had concerns on the after school Language Club she had begun and that some children are left out. She also agreed with the community member who addressed the energy conservation issue.

A suggestion was made that a member of the Board should consider attending Town, Village of Planning Board meetings.

Mrs. Green reported on a recent Autism Conference/Workshop she had attended with Mr. Reese and Barbara Butler. Mrs. Green commented on how well done and informative this workshop was.

Mr. Reese complimented the “kids” and staff on the recent Drama Club production he had attended.

Mr. Reese reported that the architect has begun his meetings with the Focus Groups of the buildings and departments. The November meeting will be held on Monday, November 13th, due to the National Honor Society Inductions on Tuesday. The committee is continuing to meet to fact find and look at costs, different possibilities, etc. Mr. Reese again emphasized this is just the preliminary phase.

Mr. Reese introduced Mrs. Mary LePore, High School Nurse, recognizing Nancy Nowak and Peg Kolman. Mrs. LePore reported on the Platinum Award the High School received for their hard work with the Blood Drive. Peg Kolman began the Blood Drive almost almost 30 years ago. Mrs. LePore mentioned a brief history of the Blood Drive along with the fact that Goshen High School was the first school to host a blood drive.

The Board congratulated them on their fine work with the community.

Mr. Reese asked Mr. Siracuse to update the Board with a brief summary of Fall Sports. Mr. Siracuse briefly summarized the Fall Sports with Cross Country winning New York State Championship with two team members, Girls Volley Ball second place in Class A, Girls Varsity Soccer OCIAA Champions placing second in Section IX, Boys Varsity Soccer team OCIAA Division and will be playing in Regional Game on Wednesday.

Mr. Abbondanza updated the Board on the Audit Committee. The auditors have completed their 2005/06 Audit Report and will meet with the Audit Committee. The final report will be received in the Business Office and the ST-3 will be filed with the State.

Mrs. Unhjem introduced Mr. Kent Maslin, Mrs. Daria Murphy, and Mrs. Mary Sharoff who joined the Board at the table and presented the Annual Professional Performance Review (APPR) that the District has implemented for observing, evaluating and setting goals for tenured and non-tenured teachers. A committee was formed with district administrators and teachers to meet the State Education Department’s requirements for a formal evaluation process for teaching staff, both tenured and non-tenured. The Board thanked the committee for sharing their process.

PERSONNEL

On a motion by Al Watson and seconded by Steve Esposito, upon the recommendation of the Superintendent of Schools, the Board of Education accepts the retirement of Patricia Sherman, Earth Science teacher, effective November 10, 2006. Miss Sherman has been with the District for the past 22 years. AYES 6 NAYS 0

On a motion by Michael Stroka and seconded by Al Watson, upon the recommendation of the Superintendent of Schools, the Board of Education approves the remainder of the Consent Agenda as presented. AYES 6 NAYS 0

Mr. Watson spoke highly of Patricia Sherman’s dedication to the children and community over her 22 years with the District. Ms. Sherman has been a consummate professional, an unselfish, highly dedicated individual. Ms. Sherman organized the Science Olympiad Team as well as the Math Team. Mr. Watson congratulated Miss Sherman on her work over the years and wished her much luck in her retirement.

Accepts retirement of Patricia Sherman middle school science teacher effective November 10, 2006. Ms. Sherman has been with the District for the past 22 years.

Approve termination of Jennifer Lempka special education teacher aide effective October 12, 2006.

Accept resignation of Elsie Priester bus monitor effective October 25, 2006.

Accept resignation of Debra Quackenbush senior food service helper effective October 30, 2006.

Approve extension of leave of absence of Marguerite Bullaro bus driver is requesting to extend her medical leave effective October 23, 2006 through November 24, 2006.

Approve extended child care leave of Debra Gonzales fifth grade teacher is requesting to extend her child care leave under the Family Medical Leave Act effective March 6, 2007 through June 30, 2007.

Approve amended child care leave of Lyn Taber health teacher change in child care leave return date ending on or about November 13, 2006.

Approve amended child care leave of Deborah Moneymaker Speech Therapist change in effective day of child care leave to October 25, 2006 from November 16, 2006.

Approve child care leave of Alyssa Boice elementary teacher is requesting child care leave under the Family Medical Leave Act effective approximately December 21, 2006 through June 30, 2007.

Approve child care leave of Kerry Larney elementary teacher is requesting child care leave under the Family Medical Leave Act effective February 15, 2007 through June 30, 2007.

Approve child care leave of Katherine Loftus elementary teacher is requesting child care leave under the Family Medical Leave Act effective approximately January 26, 2007 through March 26, 2007.

Approve child care leave of Jessica Parker elementary teacher is requesting child care leave under the Family Medical Leave Act effective approximately march 5, 2007 through June 30, 2007.

Approve extension of leave replacement of Mary Ditalia as 5th grade leave replacement teacher effective January 13, 2007 through June 30, 2007. Ms. Datalia is filling the child care leave of Anna Maria Slicker.

Approve medical leave of absence of Patricia Kutler elementary teacher is requesting a leave of absence under the Family Medical Leave Act effective October 31, 2006 through November 9, 2006.

Approve appointment of Elizabeth Golubinski AIS leave replacement teacher at a salary of $46,229 (MA-1) effective November 6, 2006 through March 26, 2007. Ms. Golubinski has N-6/Special Education permanent certification. Ms. Golubinski is filling the child care leave of Michele Pacciarelli. Ms. Golubinski is being appointed substitute teacher at a salary of $75/diem effective November 2 and 3, 2006.

Approve appointment of Linda Shute elementary leave replacement teacher at a salary of $49,279 (MA-3) effective approximately December 21, 2006 through June 30, 2007. Mrs. Shute is replacing Alyssa Boice. Mrs. Shute has permanent N-6 certification and a substitute teacher for the District.

Approve appointment of Cristal Berkeley food service helper at a salary of $9.95/hr. (CSEA contract currently under negotiations) for 3 hours per day effective November 7, 2006. Ms. Berkeley is replacing Ann Marie Nelson.

Approve appointment of Michele Lattimer senior food service helper at a salary of $16,114 (Step A-CSEA contract currently under negotiation) effective November 7, 2006. Ms. Lattimer is replacing Sharon Zeszutck.

Approve appointment of Jose Rodriguez custodial worker at a salary of $25,853 (Step A- CSEA contract currently under negotiation) effective November 7, 2006. Mr. Rodriguez is replacing Gayle Scott.

Approve appointment of Theresa Vandenburg bus monitor at a salary of $9.95/hr. (CSEA contract currently under negotiation) for 5 hours per day, effective November 13, 2006. Ms. Vandenburg is replacing Elsie Priester.

Approve appointment of Ilene Egyud teacher aide at a salary of $9.95/hr. (CSEA contract currently under negotiation) for 2.25/hrs. per day, effective November 7, 2006. Ms. Egyud is filling the newly created position at the October 3, 2006 Board meeting.

Approve appointment of Bernadette McKiernan teacher aide at a salary of $9.95/hr. (CSEA contract currently under negotiation) for 2.25/hrs. per day, effective October 30, 2007. Ms. McKiernan is filling the newly created position at the October 3, 2006 Board meeting.

Approve appointment of Kathy Kurek teacher aide at a salary of $9.95/hr. for 2.25 hours per day, effective November 8, 2006. Ms. Kurek is filling the newly created position at the October 3, 2006 Board meeting.

Approve appointment of Jesyca Greene as substitute teacher at a salary of $75/diem effective November 8, 2006.

Approve appointment of Jesyca Greene leave replacement social studies teacher at a salary of $49,279 (MA-3) effective approximately November 13, 2006 through on or around March 5, 2007. Ms. Green has permanent 7-12 social studies certification. Ms. Greene is filling the child care leave of Janine Robinson.

Approve appointment of Jeremy Eherts substitute custodial worker at a salary of $8.50/hr., as needed, effective November 7, 2006.

Approve appointment of Carol Vila substitute bus driver at a salary of $14.71/hr., as needed, effective November 7, 2006.

Approve reassignment/Change in Hours of Jane Hastings teacher aide decrease in hours from 5.75 to 5 hours per day effective October 16, 2006. Ms. Hastings is being reassigned from a special education teacher aide to a general teacher aide.

Reassignment/change in hours of Carleen Schaumburg special education teacher aide increase in hours from 5 to 5.75 hours per day, effective October 16, 2006. Ms. Schaumburg is being reassigned from a general teacher aide to a special education teacher aide.

Accept resignation of Richard Wiley varsity wrestling coach effective October 19, 2006.
Appointment: Richard Wiley JV wrestling coach at a stipend of $3,754 (Step B & D) effective November 6, 2006.

Approve appointment of Steve Camposeo varsity wrestling coach at a stipend of $4,692 (B & D) effective November 13, 2006. Mr. Camposeo is replacing Richard Wiley.

Approve appointment of Matthew Carcaterra varsity girls indoor track coach at a stipend of $2,590 (B & A) effective November 6, 2006. Mr. Carcaterra is replacing Matthew Quick.

Approve appointment of Melissa Clark teacher aide at Scotchtown Avenue, is being appointed a “restricted teacher aide” to cover a classroom when the teacher is out of the room.

Approve appointment of Kendra Parchinski teacher aide at Scotchtown Avenue, is being appointed a “restricted teacher aide” to cover a classroom when the teacher is out of the room.

Approve appointment of Laura Reynolds teacher aide at Scotchtown Avenue, is being appointed a “restricted teacher aide” to cover a classroom when the teacher is out of the room.

Approve appointment of Mary Ann Rudy teacher aide at Scotchtown Avenue, is being appointed a “restricted teacher aide” to cover a classroom when the teacher is out of the room.

Approve create new position of 1:1 teacher aide at a salary of $9.95/hr. (CSEA contract currently under negotiation) for 5.75 hours per day, effective November 7, 2006. Position being created for student’s (#115094) IEP.

Approve create new position of 1:1 teacher aide at a salary of $9.95/hr. (CSEA contract currently under negotiation) for 5.75 hours per day, effective November 7, 2006. Position being created for student’s (#110896) IEP.

Approve appointment of Paul Bennis tutor at a salary of $29.02/hr., as needed, effective October 23, 2006.

Approve appointment of Kristin Green tutor at a salary of $29.02/hr., as needed, effective October 26, 2006.

Approve appointment of Anna LaRegina tutor at a salary of $29.02/hr., as needed, effective October 23, 2006.

Approve appointment of Charles Nuara tutor at a salary of $29.02/hr., as needed, effective October 23, 2006.

Approve appointment of Sharon Woelfel tutor at salary of $29.02/hr., as needed, effective October 23, 2006.

Approve appointment of Rosemary Beach as Evening High School math teacher at a salary of $28/hr., 3.5 hours per evening, one evening per week, effective November 2, 2006. Ms. Beach is replacing Heidi Lawrence who currently is teaching OCCC Math.

Approve reduction in hours of Diane Petit technical support assistant reduction in hours to 4.5 hours per day, effective November 6, 2006.

Approve appointment of Pamela Graver special education teacher aide at a salary of $9.95/hr. (CSEA currently under negotiations) for 5.75 hours per day, effective November 15, 2006. Ms. Graver is replacing Jennifer Lempka.

Approve appointment of Debora Scheetz teacher aide at a salary of $9.95/hr. (CSEA currently under negotiations) for 2.25 hours per day, effective November 7, 2006. Ms. Scheetz is filling the newly created position at the October 3, 2006 Board meeting.

Approve increase in hours of Annette Penny food service helper increase in hours to 5 hours per day, effective November 7, 2006. Ms. Penney is replacing Michele Lattimer.

Approve appointment of Mentors for 2006/07 (see official minutes).

Disposal of Obsolete Equipment

Revised Extension of Contract for Transportation of Special Needs Students with
Tri-State Transportation Corp.

Disposal of 1988 GMC Pick-Up Truck and 1980 International Tractor 2500 Series B

CSE/CPSE

Committee on Special Education 09/13/06;111133/GIS/OHI
09/25/06;115136/CJH/MD
09/25/06;114991/CJH/LD
Subcommittee on Special Education 09/27/06;111545/CJH/LD
09/28/06;110493/GHS/OHI
10/03/06;113489/CJH/LD
10/03/06;108157/BOCES/LD
10/04/06;109849/GHS/MD
10/04/06;113840/BOCES/MD
Committee on Special Education 10/06/06;115103/GIS/OHI
Subcommittee on Special Education 10/16/06/113841/BOCES/MD
10/20/06;114799/BOCES/MD
10/20/06;114797/BOCES/A
Committee on Preschool Special Ed 10/25/06;115185/Preschool Learning/Student w/disability
10/31/06;114047/Preschool w/disability
Subcommittee on Special Education 09/12/06;112358/GIS/A
09/18/06;113924/GHS/OHI
09/20/06;113983/GHS/LD
09/26/06;107617/GHS/LD
09/28/06;106938/BOCES/OHI
Committee on Special Education 09/29/06;115122/BOCES/MD
Subcommittee on Special Education 09/29/06;113168/GHS/OHI
10/05/06;107603/GHS/LD
10/10/06;112247/GIS/LD
Committee on Special Education 10/12/06;110913/Ineligible
Committee on Preschool Special Ed 10/13/06;115166/Preschool/ w disability
Subcommittee Special Education 10/16/06;114838/BOCES/MD
10/16/06;114810/BOCES/MD
10/17/06;107601/GHS/MD
10/17/06;110733/GIS/OHI
10/17/06;111223/GIS/SLI
10/20/06;114772/BOCES/A
10/23/06;114509/BOCES/OHI
10/23/06;112566/BOCES/ED

On a motion by Robert Kish and seconded by Steve Esposito, upon the recommendation of the Superintendent, the Board of Education appoints, whereas, the following employees have been fingerprinted, the fingerprints have been submitted to the New York State Education Department (SED) for processing and the District has not received clearance for such employees as of the date of this meeting. Therefore be it resolved, that, upon the recommendation of the Superintendent of Schools, the Board hereby appoints the following instructional and non-instructional employees on an emergency basis:

Elizabeth Golubinski Cristal Berkeley Jose Rodriguez
Ilene Egyud Matthew Carcaterra Pamela Graver
Debora Scheetz Jesyca Greene

Be it further resolved, that such emergency conditional appointments shall become conditional appointments upon receipt of State clearance from SED. AYES 6 NAYS 0 Motion carried.

Mr. Reese asked if the Board had any comments after reviewing the Growth Task Force presentation at last meeting. Mr. Reese informed the Board that updates will be presented at future meetings. Eventually the Growth Task Force will make their recommendations to the Board of Education and turn over their work to the Board of Education.

Martha Bogart asked if advertising could be done to get community input.

Mr. Watson asked if cost was being looked at. Mr. Reese explained that the committee has been evaluating cost and the process is similar to the development of the budget.

Mr. Stroka asked to develop an avenue to communicate with community members prior to final decision-making as the committee proceeds with process.

On a motion by Martha Bogart and seconded by Michael Stroka upon the recommendation of the Superintendent of Schools, the Board of Educati0n approves the adoption of the 2007/08 budget development and calendar as presented. AYES 6 NAYS 0 Motion carried.

On a motion by Michael Stroka and seconded by Al Watson upon the recommendation of the Superintendent of Schools, the Board of Education schedules an additional Board Meeting from Monday, April 16, 2007 with Executive Session at 6:30 p.m. followed by the regular meeting at 7:30 p.m. AYES 6 NAYS 0 Motion carried.

On a motion by Steve Esposito and seconded by Al Watson, upon the recommendation of the Superintendent of Schools, the Board of Education enters into an Agreement with Flerida Meza-Bravo to provide Spanish Translation Services for special education students for the 2006/2007 school year in the amount not to exceed $15.00 per hour, as needed. (see official contract in minutes) AYES 6 NAYS 0 Motion carried.

On a motion by Michael Stroka and seconded by Steve Esposito, upon the recommendation of the Superintendent of Schools, the Board of Education enters into an Agreement with Louis Baerga to provide Spanish Translation Services for special education students for the 2006/2007 school year in the amount not to exceed $15.00 per hour, as needed. (see official contract in minutes) AYES 6 NAYS 0 Motion carried.

On a motion by Al Watson and seconded by Robert Kish, upon the recommendation of the Superintendent of Schools, the Board of Education enters into a partnership with the Village of Goshen to apply for a Shared Municipal Services Incentive Program awarded through the New York State Department of State. The Goshen Central School District will be the Lead Agency. AYES 6 NAYS 0 Motion carried.

On a motion by Martha Bogart and seconded by Michael Stroka, that the Board of Education hereby increases the 2006-07 Budget in the amount of $12,000.00, in Budget Code A2110456 as a result of the receipt of grant money from New York State, to be recorded in Revenue Account Code A3289. AYES 6 NAYS 0 Motion carried.

Mr. Reese publicly acknowledged the gift from the Class of 2006 of a reception desk for the High School. Mr. Reese and the Board thanked the Class of 2006 for their generous donation.

Mr. Reese acknowledged the donation of two DVD’s by Mrs. Mary Hagerdan for the High School Library. Mr. Reese and the Board thanked Mrs. Hagerdan for her generous donation.

A community member addressed the Board on the status of a replacement for Miss Sherman.

A community member addressed the Board with his concerns for not receiving results from the State on the mandated tests. Mrs. Unhjem explained they have been delayed because this was the first year that grades 3 through 8 were tested on ELA and Math with State assessments. The process should have a faster turnaround time for reported results in the future.

A community member also addressed the Board with her concerns over the future of Science Olympiad and Earth Science at the Middle School level with Miss Sherman’s retirement. Mr. Reese assured her the District is working to make sure this will not affect the children.

Mr. Watson reported on the New York State School Board Associations Annual Conference he attended on behalf of the District. Guest speaker was Debbie Norville.

Mr. Watson reported that Carl Onken was re-elected President of NYSSBA.

Fundamental change in the school aid formula is being considered to simplify the process.

Mr. Watson attended the NYSPRA Luncheon where the District was presented with a Merit Award for Mrs. Christina Damiano’s work on the February District Newsletter. Mr. Watson and Board congratulated Mrs. Damiano on her work for the District.

Forty Resolutions were introduced, 13 were recommended and adopted, 10 failed and 4 were not moved, thereby not passed.

Immunization of students was amended and passed. Pine Bush School Resolution for mandated state test scoring failed, Cornwall School District had a tax amendment which was presented and passed on the floor. Information and results will be published in the next On Board.

Mr. Stroka reported that the Orange County School Boards is currently reviewing their dues structure and will be amending their Constitution and By-Laws.

Mr. Reese mentioned the Tax Warrant Certification is ready for Board member signature.

The meeting was adjourned at 9:06 p.m. on a motion by Steve Esposito and seconded by Robert Kish.

Respectfully submitted,
Cynthia B. Brown
District Clerk