February 5, 2007 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, February 5, 2007, 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. Alvin Watson
Absent Mr. Steve Esposito
Superintendent of Schools Mr. Roy Reese
Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum Mrs. Jane Unhjem
Interim Business Official Mr. Ron Musson

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, February 5, 2007 at 7:30 p.m.

Present: Mrs. Judy Green, President
Mr. Michael Stroka, Vice President
Mrs. Martha Bogart
Mr. Robert Kish
Mr. Alvin Watson
Absent: Mr. Steve Esposito
Superintendent of Schools Mr. Roy Reese
Interim Business Official Mr. Ron Musson
Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum Mrs. Jane Unhjem
Principals: Mr. Robert Litz, Mr. Kent Maslin, Mrs. Mary Ann Knight, and Mrs. Daria Murphy
Assistant Principals: Mrs. Patricia Lercara and Ms. Colleen Kane
Director of Buildings & Grounds Mr. James Riley
Director of Athletics Mr. Robert Siracuse
Director of PPS Ms. Barbara Butler
Director of Transportation Mrs. Donna Weyant
Student Senate Representative Ms. Katrina Lord
Members of the Faculty, Press and Citizens of the District

The regular meeting was called to order by President, Mrs. Green at 7:33 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 Al Watson the Board of Education accepted the draft of minutes of January 2, 2007 and January 16, 2007. AYES 5 NAYS 0 Motion carried.

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

In the absence of Mr. Esposito, Mr. Stroka updated the public on the Audit Committee. The firm of Cooper & Niemann have started preliminary work for the District and have submitted work to the State. Mr. Stroka also mentioned that surveys were sent to Board members from the firm that were to be back by January 12th. The Audit Committee plans on meeting next week to discuss Cooper & Niemann’s reports and findings and will have a full report for the public at the first meeting in March.

The Board received the following correspondence: Correspondence from Coach Joe Guarneiri on fundraiser “Coaches –vs- Cancer” that boys’ basketball team participated in collecting $200; correspondence from Michael Stroka on State Issues and Federal Issues on education; correspondence from Mary Luciana asking for the Board to nominate her running for the O/U BOCES Board; correspondence on upcoming Science Olympiad Competition; NYSSBA SLN Issues Conference; Mid-Hudson School Study Council 5 Hour Fiscal Responsibilities of School Board Members being offered June 16, 2007; letter from Mary Ann Garcia thanking members of the National Honor Society; NYSSBA correspondence regarding Leader to Leader A Partnership for Change, OCSBA Flyer; correspondence from KG & D on recent election of Russell Davidson to serve as President of the AIA New York State, Inc. for 2007; Youth Ending Hunger Club newsletter; correspondence regarding 8th Grade Class Trip; correspondence from NYSSBA on upcoming 88th Annual Convention, and various newspaper articles

Mrs. Green opened Privilege of the Floor.

Mrs. Green had the opportunity to attend one of the 2nd Grade Concerts.

Mrs. Green also reported she attended the Focus Group meetings with Mr. Reese. Mrs. Green suggested that a time be scheduled for the Board to meet with members of the Growth Task Force. A tentative date of February 26th was agreed to by the Board.

Mrs. Bogart updated the Board on the new governor’s budget proposal which could bring the District a small increase of 1.13% more in state aid, the change in the STAR program, some relief in the WICKS law, and the Universal Pre-K plan. Mrs. Bogart also mentioned NYSSBA’s is not happy with the proposed cap increase for Charter Schools.

Mrs. Bogart mentioned the upcoming SLN Conference in Albany.

Mrs. Green mentioned the upcoming Legislative Brunch on February 10th.

Mr. Reese publicly introduced Mr. Ron Musson, who is being appointed the Interim Business Official this evening. Mr. Musson is a graduate of Marshall University and Penn State University and is a retired school business official. He brings to our District twenty-five years of experience in the school business environment. Mr. Musson was a school business official for many years in upstate communities and also served on a team of administrators dispatched to a number of Long Island school districts when they were deemed by the State Education Department as being financially distressed. He will handle the day-to-day activities in the school business office and help us to finalize the 2007/08 school budget.

Mr. Reese mentioned the plan in the event the District should have to give back unused snow days. The first give back day will be May 25th, second will be March 30, third will be April 10th and the fourth will be April 11th. This plan will be followed by all districts is the County to insure unified days off for the County.

Mr. Reese reported the Citizens’ Budget Advisory Committee will hold its first meeting on Thursday evening. The committee has 13 members this year.

Mr. Reese reported that Orange/Ulster BOCES will not be using any classrooms during the 2007/08 school year at Scotchtown. This will result in a loss of revenue of approximately $40,000.

Mr. Reese reported the Young Republicans Club at the High School will host a forum with Senator Larkin on Thursday from 11:15 –1:00. All Board members are invited.

The Junior and Senior Science Olympiad teams will be competing February 10th at Monroe Woodbury and Ulster County Community College respectively. Mr. Reese wished the students good luck.

Mr. Musson reported briefly on the state aid figures that the local papers reported on earlier in the week. The figures combined state aid and STAR. The STAR program does not bring money to school districts, the money goes to the property owner.

Mrs. Unhjem introduced Kent Maslin and Colleen Kane, who joined the table to present the Middle School Student Leadership and Social Skills program. This program is designed as a communication tool for students to have someone to go to and talk. It also provides a sense of belonging as well as a forum for conversation. All staff members work toward these goals by offering clubs, sports and daily interventions, mediations and conversation opportunities. These programs are designed to make every child feel special and provide support.

The Board thanked Mr. Maslin and Miss Kane for their hard work in making the Middle School a kid centered environment.

Katrina Lord mentioned she fully supports the efforts that the Middle School is offering students.

Mrs. Bogart mentioned this is a wonderful program.

Mrs. Green mentioned she is very impressed with the plans for the 8th grade trip.

PERSONNEL

On a motion by Robert Kish and seconded by Al Watson, upon the recommendation of the Superintendent of Schools, the Board of Education accepts the retirement of Emil Rembisz, mechanic, effective March 1, 2007. Mr. Rembisz has been with the District for over 16 years. AYES 5 NAYS 0 Motion carried.

On a motion by Robert Kish 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 5 NAYS 0 Motion carried.

Accept retirement of Emil Rembisz mechanic effective March 1, 2007. Mr. Rembisz has been with the District for over 16 years.

Accept resignation of Stacy Marks elementary teacher effective June 30, 2007.

Accept resignation of James Boylan elementary leave replacement teacher effective January 22, 2007. Mr. Boylan was filling the child care leave of Jessica Parker.

Approve extended Child Care Leave of Michele Pacciarelli AIS teacher is requesting an extension to her child care leave under the Family Medical Leave Act effective March 26, 2007 through June 22, 2007.

Approve extension of appointment of Jeanne Bouchard long-term substitute teacher aide from January 25, 2007 through February 7, 2007. Ms. Bouchard is filling the medical leave of Kerry Rourke.

Approve extended medical leave of Kerry Rourke teacher aide is requesting an extension to her medical leave of absence under the Family Medical Leave Act effective January 25, 2007 through February 7, 2007.

Approve medical leave of Joan Pisacane clerk typist is requesting medical leave under the Family Medical Leave Act effective January 2, 2007 through on or about January 15, 2007.

Approve adjusted return date of Elan Caruso adjustment in return date from child care leave effective February 12, 2007.

Approve appointment of Danielle Bray elementary leave replacement teacher at a salary of $41,789 (BA-1) effective January 29, 2007. Ms. Bray has pending initial 1-6 certification. Ms. Bray is filling the child care position of Jessica Parker (James Boylan)

Approve appointment of Claudia Donohue substitute teacher at a salary of $75/diem effective February 6, 2007. Ms. Donohue has Initial Birth-2nd grade/Initial 1-6 Certifications.

Approve appointment of Barbara France substitute teacher at a salary of $70/diem effective February 6, 2007. Ms. France is not certified.

Approve increase in hours of Emily Shields 1:1 teacher aide increase in hours to 5.25 hours per day. Ms. Shields will continue her 2.25 hours per day recess aide position in addition to filling the 3 hours per day position vacated by Erica Walsh.

Approve appointment of Paul Bennis Evening High School Social Studies teacher at a salary of $28/hr. for 3.5 hours per evening for 1 evening per week, effective February 6, 2007. Mr. Bennis is replacing Michael Hanrahan.

Approve appointment of Glenn Clark Evening High School Math teacher at a salary of $28/hr. for 3.5 hours per evening for one evening per week, effective January 29, 2007. Mr. Clark is filling a new position.

Approve appointment of Anna LaRegina substitute Evening High School teacher at a salary of $28/hr. for 3.5 hours per evening, as needed, effective February 6, 2007. Ms. LaRegina is a teacher at the High School.

Approve increase in stipend for Celine Bach CJH Newspaper Club Advisor for the 2006/07 school year amend stipend amount to $2,125.00.

Approve appointment of 2007 Spring Coach Stipends (see official minutes)

CSE/CPSE
Committee on Special Education 11/15/06;115201/BOCES/ED
11/20/06’11208/GHS/ED
01/03/07;112815/GIS/LD
Subcommittee on Special Education 01/05/07’110736/GIS/A
01/08/07;114050/GIS/LD
01/08/07;112413/GIS/A
01/09/07;114798/BOCES/ED
01/09/07;114544/SAS/SLI
01/11/07;114405/BOCES/ED
01/11/07;112080/BOCES/MR
01/11/07;113447/BOCES/A
Committee on Special Education 01/11/07;106403/GHS/Inelgible
Committee on Preschool Special Ed 01/17/07;115155/Preschool w/disability
Subcommittee on Special Ed 01/18/07;114109/GHS/LD
Committee on Preschool Special Ed 01/23/08;115249/Ineligible
Committee on Special Education 12/15/06;108227/GHS/LD
Subcommittee on Special Education 01/11/07;109173/GHS/LD
Subcommittee on Special Education 01/12/07;106444/GHS/OHI
Committee on Special Education 01/12/07;111223/GIS/OHI
Subcommittee on Special Education 01/12/07’112363/GHS/LD
Committee on Special Education 01/16/07;108483/GHS/HI
Subcommittee on Special Education 01/16/07;108971/CJH/LD
Committee on Preschool Special Ed 01/22/07;113694/Preschool Learning/Preschool w/disability
01/23/07;114316/Preschool w/disability
Section 504 01/24/07;112283/GIS/LMLA

Mr. Reese and Mrs. Unhjem highlighted and presented an overview of the mid-year status of the remaining Board Goals for 2006/07.

Goal #1 To work collaboratively with the community to support the district budget

Citizens’ Budget Advisory Committee
Weekly column in The Independent
Willingness to sit and answer any and all questions
Budget presentations at Board of Education meetings
Working closely with PTO Executive Council
Communicate with the community through the GCSD website, newsletters, and press releases

Goal #2 To develop a budget process that focuses resources on student achievement

Reduction in administration expenses
New teaching positions at SAS, GIS, CJH, GHS
Lit-Life staff development in grades K through 8
College courses in the high school
More AP offerings are under development (Environmental Science, European History, Physics)
Scoring of state exams by Educational Vistas
In-service course: Meeting the Needs of the Highly Able Learner with Dr. Fran Spielhagen

Goals #3 To support efforts to create a safe and more positive and effective learning environment

SAS: Responsive Classroom
GIS & GHS: Positive Behavioral Intervention Strategies
SAS: volunteer greeters–requesting 2 security aides in the 2007-08 budget
SAS & CJH: secure entrances
GIS: re-design of GIS entrance
GHS: student supervisors and security desk
Security cameras at SAS and GHS
New handheld radio system district-wide
GHS: additional assistant principal, social worker, guidance counselor
SAS: requesting assistant principal in 2007-08 budget
School Resource Officer (SRO)

Goal #8 To examine and support the athletic program and identify areas of need.

Programs – hoping to increase modified teams
Facilities (The Growth Task Force has included Athletic needs in upcoming capital
project)
Staffing

Mrs. Bogart thanked Mr. Reese for his dedication to the community and community minded thoughts.

On a motion by Robert Kish and seconded by Al Watson WHEREAS, the Board of Education, in accordance with Article 5-A of the General Municipal Law, invited sealed bids for: (1) Telephone System, Auto Attendant/Voice Mail and SMDR and (2) District

Rejection of Bids for Telephone Project/Video Security Project
Wide Video/Security Observation System, which bids were opened publicly on January 3, 2007; and

WHEREAS, due to procedural deficiencies in the process, the Board of Education must reject all bids;

THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board of Education, hereby rejects all bids for (1) Telephone System, Auto Attendant/Voice Mail and SMDR and (2) District Wide Video/Security Observation System; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Board of Education hereby authorizes the Superintendent to refund the required payment for bid specifications to all bidders on both of the above bid packages. AYES 5 NAYS 0 Motion carried.

On a motion by Michael Stroka and seconded by Robert Kish the Board of Education, WHEREAS, smoking is the number cause of preventable death in the United States; and

WHEREAS, Each day more than 4,000 youth try smoking for the first time, and another 2,000 youth become regular daily smokers; and

WHEREAS, the Surgeon General has concluded that tobacco advertising contributes to youth smoking rates; and

WHEREAS, an estimated 1/3 of adolescent experimentation with smoking can be directly attributed to tobacco advertising and promotional activities; and

WHEREAS, in 2002 tobacco companies spent $12.5 billion to market cigarettes in the United States, including $830 million in New York; and

Whereas, These marketing expenditures tend to overwhelm and counteract efforts by school systems, government, and the medical community to decrease smoking rates, particularly when advertisements are displayed in educational and health care settings; an

WHEREAS, In the fall of 2003, the National Association of Attorneys General (NAAG) and four tobacco companies (Philip Morris, RJ Reynolds (Reynolds America), US Smokeless Tobacco Company and Santa Fe Tobacco Company) reached an agreement to eliminate tobacco advertising in the classroom program versions of Times, Newsweek and US News and World Report to; and

WHEREAS, Between October and December of 2004, Reality Check surveyed 233 school libraries across New York State (at least one in each county) to assess what magazines were carried in those libraries and of those magazines which ones carried tobacco ads thus encouraging youth to begin smoking; and

WHEREAS, nearly three of four (75%) school libraries carry Time, Newsweek and/or US News and World Report; and

WHEREAS, 70% of school libraries carries Sports Illustrated and/or People; and

WHEREAS, all five of these magazines accept tobacco advertising, and

WHEREAS, Less than 24% of the schools surveyed participated in the classroom magazine programs of Time, Newsweek and/or US News and World Report; and

WHEREAS, school is a place where children and teenagers can learn and grow in a safe and secure environment; and

WHEREAS, schools and school libraries should not be an outlet for the tobacco industry to target youth and find replacement smokers.

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that Board of Education of the Goshen Central School District hereby expresses its opposition to tobacco advertisements in magazines in the school setting including school libraries and enthusiastically supports the extension of the 2003 selective binding agreement between NAAG and four tobacco companies to include versions of Times, Newsweek, US News and World Report and to expand the agreement to include Sports Illustrated, People and Rolling Stone, to the entire school setting, including school libraries.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED because, there are still many magazines in school libraries that contain tobacco advertisements, the Board of Education of the Goshen Central School District will support future efforts of Reality Check and the Attorney

General to reduce and eliminate tobacco advertising in schools and limit tobacco company access to youth. AYES 5 NAYS 0 Motion carried.

On a motion by Martha Bogart and seconded by Al Watson upon the recommendation of the Superintendent of Schools, the Board of Education approves the appointment of Ronald Musson as Interim Business Official at $650.00 per day effective January 29, 2007 to the maximum period ending June 30, 2007. (see official contract in minutes) AYES 5 NAYS 0 Motion carried.

On a motion by Robert Kish and seconded by Michael Stroka upon the recommendation of the Superintendent of Schools, the Board of Education approves the appointment of Ronald Musson, Interim Business Official, as Purchasing Agent, Deputy Treasurer, and Bid Designee to open bids effective February 6, 2007. AYES 5 NAYS 0 Motion carried.

Samples of the new regulations on student privacy and student records access were briefly discussed. The Board will review and discuss revising and adopting these new regulations at a future meeting.

Donna Weyant joined the Board table and presented the proposed budget for the Transportation Department. Currently looking to replace two full size buses, 1 wheelchair bus, and two mid-size buses for a total of $345,500. The department is proposing an increase of one bus driver to the staff. Mrs. Weyant is requesting to replace two garage doors, which will complete the two-year project. Some of the fuel costs are offset by St. Dominic’s. Fuel costs were projected at a higher rate last year. Overall 40,000 gallons of fuel and 95,0000 gallons of diesel per year have been used. A three year comparison of equipment, material/supplies, contractual and transportation contracts were reviewed.

The Board thanked Mrs. Weyant.

Mr. Riley joined the table and presented the proposed 2007/08 Buildings & Grounds Budget.

Mr. Riley heads a department of 23 custodial workers, 9 maintenance/ground workers, 1 courier and 1 clerical staff member. The District has four school buildings, one annex, one maintenance building, transportation building and various storage/utility buildings.
Mr. Riley highlighted upcoming 2007/08 projects for the District. They include reconfiguration of space at Scotchtown Avenue School with conversion of BOCES space, athletic field improvements, continuing the implementation of the energy conservation program, continue to accomplish the recommendations of the 2005 Building Conditions Survey – 5 year plan, and projections for the new Village of Goshen wastewater treatment plant and proposed water usage and assessment bills. This is a new formula from the Village that will effect how the district is billed. Mr. Riley is requesting an additional .5 custodial worker.

Mr. Riley presented a summary of Mr. Riley’s budget included a 15.1% increase for the operation and maintenance of the plant, which includes improvements to the athletic fields.

Mrs. Green opened the second Privilege of the Floor.

A community member asked about the new clubs being offered at the Middle School and if they will be listed on the webpage. She was advised that all clubs are currently listed on the Middle School Webpage.

Mrs. Bogart requested that the Superintendent contact the library to obtain copies of the borrowing contract, copy of official notes with role call vote for the $600,000 borrowing, and a copy of the borrowing agreement from the bank.

The meeting was adjourned at 9:36 p.m. on a motion by Michael Stroka and seconded by Martha Bogart.

Respectfully submitted,
Cynthia B. Brown
District Clerk