TENTATIVE MINUTES
The Board of Education of Baltimore County, Maryland, met in open session at 4:12 p.m. at Greenwood. President Donald L. Arnold and the following Board members were present: Mr. H. J. Jack Barnhart, Ms. Erica A. Cohn, Ms. Phyllis E. Ettinger, Mr. Michael P. Kennedy, Mr. James R. Sasiadek, and Mr. James E. Walker. In addition, Dr. Joe A. Hairston, Superintendent of Schools, was present.
At 4:12 p.m., a motion was made to meet in closed session in accordance with the Annotated Code of Maryland, State Government Article, §10-508(a)(1)(i) for the purpose of conducting an employment hearing. The motion was seconded and unanimously approved by polling each individual Board member present for the hearing.
In addition to the above listed Board members, the following people were also in attendance for the hearing: Ms. Christine Johns, Deputy Superintendent; Margaret-Ann F. Howie, Legal Counsel to the Superintendent; J. Robert Haines, Legal Counsel to the Board; the appellants; and their attorney.
The proceedings of the hearing were recorded by a court reporter. The hearing concluded at 5:12 p.m.
At the close of the hearing, the parties were excused and the Board deliberated on Case #00-12.
Dr. Hayman entered the room at 5:21 p.m.
At 5:50 p.m., a motion was made and seconded to return to open session. Board members Mr. Hayden, Ms. Ross-Holmes, and Mr. Teplitzky entered the room at 5:50 p.m.
Mr. Barnhart immediately moved the Board go into closed session to discuss personnel matters pursuant to the Annotated Code of Maryland, State Government Article, §10-508(a)(1). The motion was seconded by Mr. Sasiadek and unanimously approved by the Board.
Dr. Hairston and Ms. Johns briefed the Board on two personnel issues.
At 6:45 p.m., Mr. Kennedy moved to end the closed session for a brief dinner recess. The motion was seconded by Ms. Cohn and approved by the Board.
The Board of Education of Baltimore County, Maryland, reconvened in open session at 7:40 p.m. at Greenwood. President Donald L. Arnold and the following Board members were present: Mr. H. J. Jack Barnhart, Ms. Erica A. Cohn, Ms. Phyllis E. Ettinger, Mr. John A. Hayden, III, Dr. Warren C. Hayman, Mr. Michael P. Kennedy, Ms. Carolyn Ross-Holmes, Mr. James R. Sasiadek, Mr. Sanford V. Teplitzky, and Mr. James E. Walker. In addition, Dr. Joe A. Hairston, Superintendent of Schools; staff members; members of various civic, employee, and community organizations were present as was the press.
The open session commenced with the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag, which was led by Mr. Dave Parlett, an employee of AAI Corporation, and a period of silent meditation for those who have served education in the Baltimore County Public Schools.
Hearing no additions or corrections to the Report of the Public Hearing, January 31, 2001; the Report of the Work Session, February 8, 2001; and the open and closed session minutes of February 13, 2001, Mr. Arnold declared the minutes approved as presented.
Employees of AAI Corporation were presented a plaque in recognition of their 33 years of service to the Baltimore County community. Representing AAI employees were Mr. James Sherman, Activities Committee Chair; Ms. Michelle Campbell, Administrative Assistant for Human Services; and Mr. Dave Parlett of the Photography Department.
On motion of Mr. Barnhart, seconded by Ms. Ettinger, the Board voted to endorse the recognition of AAI Corporation employees.
Dr. Hairston informed Board members and the audience of his attendance at a recent Central Area Educational Advisory Council meeting at Loch Raven Academy.
Dr. Hairston announced that earlier in the day he had met with the County Council, the Chief of Staff, and the Deputy. Yesterday, Mr. Arnold and Dr. Hairston met with the County Executive to reaffirm their commitment and spirit of cooperation.
The Superintendent visited Reisterstown Elementary School recently where he was the keynote speaker and observed the students' work with the Reading Around the World program.
Dr. Hairston reiterated that the proposed budget proposal is contingent upon availability of funds. He noted the County Executive has been extremely supportive and complimentary of this administration.
Ms. Ettinger moved that the Board approve Erica A. Cohn as a voting member of the Board of Education for consideration of the Proposed Operating Budget -- Fiscal Year 2002 - in accordance with the Annotated Code of Maryland, Education Article, §3-109(b)(3)(iii). The
motion was seconded by Dr. Hayman and approved by the Board. Mr. Hayden cast an opposing vote.
Dr. Hairston restated the budget was developed in a way to reflect what is necessary to operate the school system. It is aligned to the performance of the organization, and it is a process. He noted that we are not operating in an adversarial fashion. The proposed budget identifies the needs necessary to educate the children. Dr. Hairston reminded everyone that we do not have fiscal autonomy and must work collaboratively with other agencies. The Superintendent noted the strong relationship with the County Executive and County Council and stated the budget recommendation is contingent upon availability of funds.
Mr. Barnhart moved approval of the Proposed Operating Budget for fiscal year 2002. The motion was seconded by Ms. Ettinger and unanimously approved by the Board.
Mr. Arnold stated this is the start and continuation of a process where we will work together with the County Executive and County Council to stay within affordable spending and to utilize the availability of funds to the maximum degree. By working together with the County Executive and the County Council, Mr. Arnold shared the Board's hope to achieve what is best for Baltimore County students.
Mr. Kennedy clarified a statement he made which appeared in a recent Sun article. He said the second part of his statement&emdash;recognizing the County Executive has other budgets to consider--did not appear in the article. His printed comment was not meant to be confrontational.
Mr. Teplitzky commended the Superintendent and staff for the process used in developing the budget. He stated the budget reflected the priorities established by the Board. Mr. Teplitzky also stated the budget was more easily understood by the public, therefore, making it easier to advocate for the budget. He recognized the Board will work together with the County fiscal authorities to fund the needs of our students and feels this budget is a true picture of our students' needs and what is necessary to operate the school system.
Mr. Walker shared that while attending a conference this week, a colleague from another county saw the budget on our website and was impressed by how it is closely aligned with the Blueprint for Progress.
Ms. Ettinger thanked the Superintendent and staff for developing a well thought out budget that is closely aligned to the school system's goals. She also thanked the community for its input in this process and noted the importance of the community in the budget process.
Dr. Hayman thanked the community for its follow-up support of the budget and the budget process. He stated we must recognize this is a process, it has not been completed, and we must continue to persevere.
Dr. Hayman and Mr. Kennedy left the room at 8:00 p.m.
The Board received the following report:
A. Report on the Proposed New Town Elementary School Boundaries&emdash;Ms. Flynn provided Board members with the history of the New Town Boundary Change Committee and shared the committee's charge. She shared key points related to the process and the committee's recommendation. Ms. Flynn announced the public hearing for the proposed boundaries will be held on Monday, March 12, at 7 p.m. at Randallstown High School, and action on the proposal will take place on March 29th.
Ms. Cohn asked if the Milbrook community had been informed of possible future adjustments. Ms. Flynn responded they have, and they are looking forward to participating in a similar process next year.
Ms. Ettinger asked if any of the schools involved in the New Town process would be involved in a possible process for Milbrook next year. Ms. Flynn stated that process would be predicated on the September 30, 2001, enrollment and the most likely candidate to be involved in that process is Owings Mills Elementary School.
Mr. Sasiadek and Mr. Hayden urged staff to look at construction of another elementary school in this area as soon as possible. Mr. Hayden noted that within four (4) years, Deer Park, Hernwood, and Milbrook Elementary Schools will be at 100+ over capacity. Mr. Barnhart agreed that we should be planning or at least studying where the next school in this area should be placed.
Mr. Teplitzky noted that the community would probably suggest we consider a middle school for the area before another elementary school. He stated there is a great shortage of middle school seats in this area. Mr. Teplitzky complimented the committee on the Community Forum. Having attended the forum, Mr. Teplitzky stated it was well run and orderly.
Ms. Ross-Holmes, who served as an ex-officio member of the Boundary Committee, thanked all of the committee members and staff who participated in this process. She stated the process was an opportunity for the public to share its concerns about the boundary decision.
Mr. Walker asked if thought was given in the planning stages to making New Town a K-8 school. Ms. Flynn responded early in the process
consideration was given to a K-8 school for New Town. However, in recent times the need for elementary seats made us look at an elementary
school as a necessity. Ms. Flynn stated the school is constructed with some flexibility, such as a middle school sized gym. She stated the school could be converted into a middle school without a great deal of difficulty.
Mr. Barnhart moved approval of the personnel matters. The motion was seconded by Mr. Walker. Mr. Hayden asked if a way could be found to monitor the number of retirees returning to the school system. The Board approved the personnel matters as presented on Exhibits D, E, and F. (Copies of the exhibits are attached to the formal minutes.)
Ms. Ross Holmes pulled item 5 for further discussion. On motion of Mr. Teplitzky, seconded by Mr. Barnhart, the Board approved items 1-4, 6, and 7.
1. Class School Rings: Division II
2. Dental Managed Care (Dental HMO)
3. Editing Suite (Education Channel)
4. Elementary Education Equipment (Pre-K through Grade 5)
6. General School and Office Furniture and Equipment
7. Grounds Equipment: Hydroseeder
Board of Education February 27, 2001
Open and Closed Session Minutes Page 6
Item 5
Ms. Ross-Holmes stated she was pleased to see this contract recommendation brought forward particularly since its funding was in question a few months ago.
On motion of Ms. Ross-Holmes, seconded by Ms. Cohn, the Board approved a contract award for Extended Summer Learning Program (Title 1 Students).
The Building Committee, represented by Mr. Barnhart, recommended approval of items 1-5. Ms. Cohn pulled item 4 for further discussion. The Board approved recommendations 1-3 and 5.
1. Reroofing Project-- Shady Spring Elementary School
2. Reroofing Project -- Southwest Area Office
3. Fee Acceptance -- Inspection Services for Reroofing Project --
Shady Spring Elementary School
5. Transfer of Property -- Maiden Choice Center
Ms. Cohn asked if this project was determined as a priority by the evaluation done of science labs at all high schools, to which Mr. Krempel responded it was.
As recommended by the Building Committee, the Board approved item 4.
4. Change Order -- Design Services for Science Room Renovations --
Patapsco High School
On motion of Mr. Sasiadek, seconded by Mr. Barnhart, the Board voted to support HB 799 and 803 -- Mentoring Programs.
On motion of Mr. Barnhart, seconded by Ms. Ettinger, the Board voted to support HB 935 - Public School Library Funding.
On motion of Ms. Ettinger, seconded by Mr. Barnhart, the Board voted to support HB 950 (SB 719) -- Education Finance, Equity, and Excellence Act of 2001.
On motion of Mr. Teplitzky, seconded by Mr. Barnhart, the Board voted to oppose HB 999 -- Baltimore County Board of Education Membership.
Ms. Ettinger moved approval of HB 1218 -- Teacher Contract Salary Signing Bonus. The motion was seconded by Ms. Cohn.
Mr. Teplitzky asked Dr. Poff to discuss with the bill's sponsor the possibility of amending the bill to include other incentives previously discussed which require legislation.
The Board voted to support HB 1218.
Dr. Poff requested that SB 435 -- Captive Audience/Stop Commercialism in Schools Act of 2001 - be held until further dialogue among the executive cabinet takes place. This bill will be brought back at the next Board meeting.
On motion of Mr. Teplitzky, seconded by Mr. Barnhart, the Board voted to support SB 469 -- School Resource Officers.
Ms. Ross-Holmes left the room at 8:35 p.m.
Mr. Arnold informed the audience of the various sessions in which Board members had participated earlier that afternoon.
Mr. Arnold made the following announcements:
ÿ On Tuesday, March 6, 2001, the Southeast Area Educational Advisory Council will meet at Edgemere Elementary School at 7:30 p.m.
ÿ On Monday, March 12, 2001, the Board will conduct a public hearing on the proposed boundary for New Town Elementary School at Randallstown High School at 7:00 p.m. Speaker sign-in will start at 6:15 p.m.
ÿ Also on Monday, March 12, 2001, the Citizens Advisory Committee for Special Education will meet at 7:00 p.m. in the Greenwood ESS Building.
ÿ The next regularly scheduled meeting of the Board of Education of Baltimore County will be held on Tuesday, March 13, 2001, at Greenwood. The meeting will begin with an open session at 5:00 p.m. After the Board adjourns to meet in closed session, followed by a brief dinner recess, the open meeting will reconvene at 7:30 p.m. The public is welcome at all open sessions.
Ms. Meghan Kotula, President of the Baltimore County Student Councils, reiterated students' feelings that a before Labor Day start is preferred over the after Labor Day start. Ms. Kotula also voiced BCSC's support for full voting rights for the student member of the Board of Education. She indicated that BCSC would continue to campaign in support of this issue.
Ms. Kelli Nelson, a representative of the Citizens Advisory Committee for Special Education, asked that any recommendations for reducing the budget be shared with stakeholder groups during the process, not after. She also requested that rationale for the cuts be included.
Ms. Nelson noted that the committee has started a writing campaign to the Governor and County
Executive. Also, last week two members of the committee attended hearings in Annapolis. Ms. Nelson stated that during one of the hearings, Dr. Thornton and Senator Hoffman commented on the effect of public comment on the decision-making process. The advisory committee will be looking into opportunities to receive federal money for special education. Ms. Nelson thanked Board members for their support of the Thornton Commission recommendations.
Ms. Meg O'Hare, Chair of the Northeast Area Educational Advisory Council, discussed the Algebra I initiative in the Northeast Area, which was the focus of the council's last meeting.
Ms. Ann McNell, a representative of the Central Area Educational Advisory Council, thanked the Board for its support of the operating budget. Some of the concerns expressed to the council by parents are: communications with parents and the public, student/teacher ratio, teacher recruitment and retention, and the Baltimore County Public Schools' web site.
Mr. Boyd Crouse, Chair of the Southeast Area Educational Advisory Council, noted that at the most recent meeting of the council, Ms. Norman presented information about the Parent Involvement Survey. He was pleased to see the school system is focusing on attempts to make parents a bigger player in their children's education. Another agenda item that evening was the budget. Parents in attendance were impressed with how easily the budget could be understood. The group was also pleased to see items tied to goals. Mr. Crouse offered the assistance of the Southeast Area Educational Advisory Council in achieving full funding of the budget.
Ms. Jan Thomas, a representative of the PTA Council of Baltimore County, stated the Board's passage of the proposed budget demonstrates its support to public school students of Baltimore County. The PTA Council pledged its continued support of the budget.
Ms. Mary Pat Kahle, a representative of the PTA Council of Baltimore County, noted a positive exchange between council members and legislators at a meeting last night in Annapolis. The PTA Council is focusing on two issues&emdash;funding for non-public schools and SB 719 (HB 950) that speaks to the Thornton Commission recommendations. Ms. Kahle thanked the Board for its support on both issues.
Ms. Laura Nossel, President of the PTA Council of Baltimore County, spoke about the Council's upcoming meeting with the County Executive. She stated local PTA units have been encouraged to support the budget request. Ms. Nossel stressed the need for parent inclusion at the beginning of a process, not just at the end.
Mr. Mark Beytin, President of the Teachers Association of Baltimore County, congratulated Board members on the passing of the operating budget and voiced TABCO's support. With respect to the problem of teacher retention, Mr. Beytin noted the large number of teachers leaving the system thus far this school year. He noted that last year over 1,000 teachers retired, resigned, or went out on unpaid leave. Teachers continue to voice concerns over workload. He shared information from exit surveys that indicate 51% of those who left after a
year or less indicate an easing of job responsibilities would have encouraged them to remain in the job. Those who remained for the 2nd year stated the positive support from administrators and colleagues was the most influential factor in their decision to stay. Mr. Beytin stated that non-support from administration is the primary leaving for leaving. Mr. Beytin shared with Board members a few comments from this year's Teacher Perception Survey.
The following person addressed the Board with respect to the proposed calendar changes for 2001-2002:
Ms. Laura Nossel, President of the PTA Council of Baltimore County, voiced her support of the concept of having staff development on non-instructional days. She shared that parents seem to be receptive of the addition of staff development days in November and January. She asked that student absences for "Take Your Child to Work Day" in April be monitored actively and suggested documentation be required for that day.
Mr. Rodger Janssen expressed disappointment that the Board limits the number of speakers at the end of the business meeting. Mr. Janssen noted that in a recent legislative presentation, the position of the PTA Council was not included in all educational bills being considered. Mr. Janssen speculated Dr. Poff stated the PTA's position to suit his needs. He suggested all bills being considered by the Board include the PTA Council's position so the Board will have all the information needed to make its decision.
Ms. Charisse Mallory Grier, President of the Woodlawn Middle School PTSA, thanked the Board for its attention to the needs of Woodlawn Middle School. She stated parents want input in this process and are looking forward to the coming months. Ms. Grier asked the Board not to neglect Woodlawn Middle's feeder schools.
Ms. Judy Edgar, Principal of the Catonsville Center for Alternative Studies, thanked the Board for its past support. She noted this year her school received a reading specialist and that last year Catonsville Center received a special educator who can offer services to students in a self-contained classroom.
Ms. Norbrta Winborne and her son, Byron who attended Catonsville Center for five months, shared how the school has made a difference in Byron's life. Byron is now back at his
home school. Byron stated the staff at Catonsville showed him how to deal with his anger. The school also maintained his educational program so that when he returned to his home school, he was not behind his peers.
Ms. Catherine Petrich-Benser, a parent of a former Catonsville Center student, spoke of the importance of the alternative schools and the supportive environment found in these schools. She asked the Board to support all day and evening alternative programs.
Mr. George Chiles, President of the Parkville Middle School PTSA, spoke of a proposed change in the curriculum at Parkville. The initiative would place a reading program at the school and would negatively impact the foreign language program. Mr. Chiles stated the perception of a reading problem comes from the elementary level where feeder schools' MSPAP scores are low. He asked that input from teachers and parents on this proposal be considered.
Ms. Karen Claggett, a Deer Park Elementary School parent, spoke to the recommended boundaries for New Town Elementary School. She stated the proposed boundaries do not provided optimum relief for all the schools. Specifically, Deer Park Elementary will be opening near capacity this fall. The parents and community are grateful for the new addition, but there is no room for growth. Another concern shared by Ms. Claggett is how the boundaries were drawn. In Ms. Claggett's opinion, the recommended boundaries send a message of socio-economic disparity.
At 9:38 p.m., Mr. Barnhart moved the Board adjourn the open session. The motion was seconded by Mr. Teplitzky and approved by the Board.
Respectfully submitted,
___________________
Joe A. Hairston
Secretary-Treasurer
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