BOARD OF EDUCATION OF BALTIMORE COUNTY, MARYLAND
Tuesday, September 25, 2001
The Board of Education of Baltimore County,
Maryland, met in open session at 4:18 p.m. at
Greenwood. In absence of the Board president
and vice president, Board member Phyllis Ettinger
called the hearing to order. In addition to
Ms. Ettinger, the following Board members were
present: Ms. Maria R. Cirincione, Mr. Thomas
G. Grzymski, III, Dr. Warren C. Hayman, Ms.
Jean M. H. Jung, Mr. Michael P. Kennedy, Ms.
Carolyn Ross-Holmes, and Mr. James E. Walker.
In Hearing Examiner's Case # 01-09, the Board entertained oral argument. The matter was heard in closed session.
In addition to the above listed Board members, also in attendance were the appellant; Dr. Joe A. Hairston, Superintendent of Schools; J. Robert Haines, Esquire, Deputy Superintendent of Schools for Business Services; Ms. Margaret-Ann F. Howie, Legal Counsel to the Superintendent; Ms. Carol Saffran-Brinks, Legal Counsel to the Board of Education; and Ms. Denise Zepp, Administrative Assistant to the Board of Education.
The proceedings of the hearing were recorded by a court reporter.
Ms. Christine Johns, Deputy Superintendent
for Curriculum and Instruction, entered the
room at 4:29 p.m.
The hearing was concluded at 4:39 p.m.
Board members deliberated on the case.
The Board reconvened in open session at 5:08 p.m. at Greenwood. Board member Phyllis Ettinger and the following Board members were present: Ms. Maria R. Cirincione, Mr. Thomas G. Grzymski, Mr. John A. Hayden, III, Dr. Warren C. Hayman, Ms. Jean M. H. Jung, Mr. Michael P. Kennedy, Ms. Carolyn Ross-Holmes, Mr. James R. Sasiadek, and Mr. James E. Walker. In addition, Dr. Joe A. Hairston, Superintendent of Schools, and staff members were present.
Mr. Kennedy immediately moved the Board go into closed session to consult with counsel to obtain legal advice pursuant to the Annotated Code of Maryland, State Government Article, §10-508(a)(7). The motion was seconded by Mr. Walker and approved by the Board.
CLOSED SESSION MINUTES
Mr. Hayden left the room at 5:09 p.m.; Mr. Arnold entered the room at 5:09 p.m.
Ms. Saffran-Brinks consulted with the Board
regarding a contract that has been terminated.
Board of Education September 25, 2001
At 5:25 p.m., Ms. Jung moved to adjourn the closed session. The motion was seconded by Mr. Walker and approved by the Board.
Mr. Hayden re-entered the room at 5:26 p.m.
OPEN SESSION MINUTES
Dates for Board member computer training were scheduled.
Dr. Hairston informed the Board that revisions to Rule 4118.1 had been withdrawn from the agenda.
Dr. Hayman expressed concern over the delay in Board action on the UMBC partnership. Dr. Hairston replied the agreement is currently being reviewed by UMBC's legal staff.
At 5:38 p.m., Mr. Walker moved to adjourn the open session for a brief dinner recess. The motion was seconded by Mr. Kennedy and approved by the Board.
OPEN SESSION MINUTES
The Board of Education of Baltimore County, Maryland, reconvened in open session at 7:30 p.m. at Greenwood. President Donald L. Arnold and the following Board members were present: Ms. Maria R. Cirincione, Ms. Phyllis E. Ettinger, Mr. Thomas G. Grzymski, Mr. John A. Hayden, III, Dr. Warren C. Hayman, Ms. Jean M. H. Jung, Mr. Michael P. Kennedy, Mr. James R. Sasiadek, and Mr. James E. Walker. In addition, Dr. Joe A. Hairston, Superintendent of Schools; staff members; and members of various civic, employee, and community organizations were present as was the media.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
The open session commenced with the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag, which was led by Ms. Carolyn Ross-Holmes, and a period of silent meditation for those who have served education in the Baltimore County Public Schools and for those who lost their lives in the recent terrorist attacks on New York and Washington.
Mr. Arnold informed the audience of the various sessions in which Board members had participated earlier in the afternoon.
MINUTES
Hearing no additions or corrections to the Report of the Board of Education Retreat, August 26, 2001, Mr. Arnold declared the minutes approved as presented.
SUPERINTENDENT'S REPORT
Dr. Hairston noted that on September 19, Oliver Beach Elementary School was recognized by the Maryland Center for Character Education for its outstanding character education program for 2001-02. He congratulated the principal and staff on this outstanding accomplishment.
Dr. Hairston reported that in response to a request by the Board, contact has been made with the County Executive's office with regard to discussing future school sites in Baltimore County. A meeting will be held in the near future. He noted the discussion with the County Executive would focus on the system's September 30th enrollment figures as well as ten-year enrollment projections.
Ms. Johns reminded Board members that last year it was decided to review the middle school programs based on achievement issues and community concerns. Ms. Szymaszek shared highlights of the framework for the Middle School Task Force and reviewed the task force's charge. Membership of the task force was also reviewed. The following components, as base requirements for a middle school program, will be explored:
o Indicators
o Results
o Structure
o Resources.
Ms. Jung noted that at some point in the future, the school system will need to build a middle school and suggested looking into the question of the ideal size of a middle school in the context of the task force.
Ms. Ettinger recommended that when looking at indicators, she hopes the task force will go beyond test scores, looking at issues such as parent and student involvement, sizes and types of middle schools to see the variations that occur, and looking at the school system's ability to meet the needs of various subgroups of students in various types of settings.
Mr. Teplitzky entered the room at 7:40 p.m.
Dr. Hayman urged the task force to include Ms. Ettinger's suggestions in the report so the thrust of achievement won't be determined by test performance and will become one of the goals of the task force. He also expressed his hope that a way could be found to provide released time for task force members, as well as finding resources to support the work of the task force. Dr. Hayman noted that we have various middle schools with various programs and various populations. He asked the group be sensitive to the populations being served.
With respect to the composition of the task force, Dr. Hayman questioned why students were not included. He also suggested separate categories for parents and community
representation, rather than putting them together. He encouraged the inclusion of representatives from the higher education community on the task force.
Building on Dr. Hayman's comments, Mr. Sasiadek encouraged the task force to include research on a K-8 configuration as a possibility. He also voiced his support of Ms. Szymaszek as the task force's chair.
Ms. Ross-Holmes asked the group not to lose sight of the achievement gap.
Dr. Hairston announced the upcoming groundbreaking ceremony for New Town High School, Baltimore County's newest high school in 25 years.
Ms. Glazer and Dr. Milbourne provided a status report with respect to the Title I Public School Transfer Options for Sussex Elementary School and Woodlawn Middle School. Both principals have conducted faculty meetings to apprise their staffs of the options. Letters have been sent to parents explaining the program. Sussex has held its Back-To-School Night, and Woodlawn's program is scheduled for this evening. Both schools will hold community meetings the first part of October.
Dr. Hayman shared his concern about the slow pace of implementing the transfer procedures. He noted that in other affected counties, the process has been completed. Dr. Hayman asked that information about schools eligible to receive children be provided to Board members as soon as it is available. He and Ms. Jung also inquired about the climate in the school communities that will receive any transferring students.
Ms. Jung also expressed concern about the pace of implementing this transfer process. She suggested that the timeframe be adjusted to allow for earlier implementation, should the legislation that mandated this transfer option, Public Law 106-554, be extended. Ms. Ettinger and Mr. Kennedy concurred.
Dr. Milbourne informed Board members of a
visit to Woodlawn Middle School by Baltimore
Ravens player Qadry Ismail. Mr. Ismail has made
a commitment to Woodlawn Middle School of his
time and resources. He talked with students
about the importance of academics and achievement.
Students will sign a contract promising to uphold
the expectations described during today's visit.
The Ravens player will spend seven Tuesdays
at the school.
REPORTS
The Board received the following reports:
A. Report on Proposed Revisions to Boundary Change Practices-Ms. Flynn noted that the proposed changes reflect organizational changes. The Practices have also been assigned a number for inclusion in the school system's policy manual. The Board will hear public comment on the proposed revisions on October 11 and will be asked to vote on the proposed changes October 23.
At the request of Mr. Hayden, the term "Executive Leadership Team" will be defined.
B. Report on Computer Repair Technical Career
Completer Program -
Chesapeake High School-Ms. Bailey introduced
the report and acknowledged the stakeholders,
Mr. Barlow in Technology, and the school staff
for their input in the proposal. She also acknowledged
the staff of the Career and Technology Office.
Ms. Bonham, Manager of the Office of Career and Technology Education, explained the program will open in September 2002. It is designed to expand the Career & Technology Education program at Chesapeake. Ms. Bonham reviewed the history behind this proposal. She noted that upon successful completion of this program, students may immediately enter employment, attend college, or technical school. Ms. Bonham described the skills students enrolled in the program will learn. There is a teacher candidate. She noted the room for this program will need some electrical and lighting upgrades.
Mr. Grzymski inquired about working together with area colleges so that students who wish to do so, may go on and earn a degree. Ms. Bonham stated that the school system maintains close ties with the Community College of Baltimore. Dual enrollment has also been discussed.
Ms. Ettinger suggested a follow-up of students completing this program to understand what happens to these students beyond high school and to gain their input regarding their preparation. She stated that counselors will need to be sensitive to the options for these students and encourage students to explore those options. Ms. Ettinger also suggested the creation of a document for students and parents that will show, in detail, all the options that are available for this program at various levels of education.
In response to a question from Ms. Ettinger, Mr. Linkins, Principal of Chesapeake High School, stated that this is not intended to be a magnet program to draw students from the Southeast Area, but to be offered to Chesapeake students only.
PERSONNEL MATTERS
On motion of Mr. Teplitzky, seconded by Mr. Kennedy, the Board approved the personnel matters as presented on Exhibits D, E, F, and G. (Copies of the exhibits are attached to the formal minutes.)
CONTRACT AWARDS
Ms. Ettinger pulled item 3 for further discussion. On motion of Mr. Hayden, seconded by Mr. Kennedy, the Board approved items 1, 2, and 4-8.
1. Auctioneering Services
2. CISCO Products
4. Flexible Benefits Administrator (Second One-Year Extension)
5. Gasoline, Fuel Oil, Diesel Fuel (Second Year of Contract)
6. Parts Washer (One-Year Extension)
7. Prefabricated Traffic Signs
8. Tractors, Grounds Equipment, and Accessories
Item 3
Ms. Ettinger inquired as to the need to hire an outside vendor to provide these services. Dr. Milbourne explained this is an intervention program funded by the state. Woodlawn selected this program because they felt it would meet their diagnostic and prescriptive needs. Ms. Ettinger voiced her hope that we could learn from the vendor and take over the function they are performing, if it is determined it is worthwhile. Ms. Ross-Holmes and Mr. Kennedy echoed Ms. Ettinger's concern. Mr. Kennedy stated he believes our teachers can perform the same job as the recommended vendor and do it better.
Mr. Teplitzky and Mr. Hayden both emphasized the program is being funded by state funds.
On motion of Dr. Hayman, seconded by Mr. Hayden, the Board approved item 3.
3. Contracted Services: Sylvan Learning
Mr. Kennedy asked Mr. Gay to review the school-based reproduction equipment report.
BUILDING COMMITTEE
The Building Committee, represented by Mr. Kennedy, recommended approval of items 1-10. Ms. Ross-Holmes pulled items 4 and 5. The Board approved recommendations 1-3 and 6-10.
1. Science Room Renovations - Dulaney High School
2. Science Room Renovations - Owings Mills High School
3. Construction Contracts - New Town High School
6. Change Order - Consultant Design Services
for Major Maintenance
Renovation Project - Riderwood Elementary School
7. Change Order - Construction Administration
Services for IT Cabling -
Various Schools
8. Change Order - Major Maintenance Renovation
Project - Glenmar
Elementary School
9. Change Order - Major Maintenance Renovation
Project - Johnnycake
Elementary School
10. Change Order - Major Maintenance Renovation
Project - Owings Mills
Elementary School
Items 4 and 5
As recommended by the Building Committee,
the Board approved items 4 and 5. Ms. Ross-Holmes
abstained from discussion and voting on these
items.
4. Fee Acceptance - Construction Administration
Services for
Science Room Renovations - Dulaney High School
5. Fee Acceptance - Construction Administration
Services for
Science Room Renovations - Owings Mills High
School
INFORMATION
The Board received the following as information:
Revised Rule 6130 - Magnet Schools Admission.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Mr. Arnold made the following announcements:
Ø The Board will hold a hearing and work session on the proposed state capital budget request on Monday, October 1, 2001, at 7:00 p.m. at Greenwood.
Ø Schools and offices will be closed on Thursday, September 27, 2001, in observance of Yom Kippur.
Ø On Monday, October 8, 2001, the Citizens Advisory Committee for Special Education will meet at Greenwood at 7:00 p.m.
Ø On Wednesday, October 10, 2001, the Northeast Area Educational Advisory Council will hold its pre-budget hearing at Eastern Technical High School at 7:00 p.m.
Ø On Monday, October 15, 2001, the Central Area Educational Advisory Council will hold its pre-budget hearing at Dumbarton Middle School at 7:30 p.m.
Ø On Tuesday, October 16, 2001, the Southeast Area Educational Advisory Council will hold its pre-budget hearing at Sollers Point/Southeastern Technical High School at 7:00 p.m.
Ø On Wednesday, October 17, 2001, the Southwest Area Educational Advisory Council will hold its pre-budget hearing at Woodlawn Middle School at 7:00 p.m.
Ø On Thursday, October 18, 2001, the Northwest Area Educational Advisory Council will hold its pre-budget hearing at Owings Mills High School at 7:00 p.m.
Ø The next regularly scheduled meeting of the Board of Education of Baltimore County will be held on Thursday, October 11, 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.
PUBLIC COMMENT
Mr. Arnold reminded audience members who signed the speakers list to refrain from discussion of any personnel or other matters that may come before the Board as an appeal.
Mr. Ron Dapkunis, Chair of the Citizens Advisory Committee for Alternative Education, shared several needs of alternative education:
1. Transition counselors;
2. Improved salaries for alternative education teachers;
3. Support services for Evening High School and home teaching-There is a need for resource teachers to monitor the implementation of curriculum.
4. Early intervention program for elementary students who have been expelled; and
5. An alternative high school for students unable to transition back to their home school effectively.
Ms. Teresa LaMaster, Chair of the Citizens Advisory Committee for Special Education, reviewed meeting highlights from September 10th. The focus of the meeting was on the new organization structure. Parents are excited about the focus on instruction. She shared one main concern of parents-Within the focus on instruction, there is still a distinction between children who aren't diploma bound and those who are. There is concern that all instructional support resources are going to those students who are diploma bound, and students who are not diploma bound, aren't getting as much academic support, especially in the core areas of reading and math. Ms. LaMaster noted in the Board Retreat minutes an item with regard to special education policy. Her group offered five (5) key areas on which the Board could focus:
1. Improving the IEP process within the confines of the law;
2. Improving communication with parents;
3. Developing a systemwide model of inclusion;
4. Defining student achievement in special education; and
5. Looking at effective curriculum in special education, especially in the areas of reading and math.
Ms. Meg O'Hare, Chair of the Northeast Area Educational Advisory Council, noted her attendance at a reading update this month. She asked for confirmation of a statement that one-quarter of the Baltimore County schools are not achieving as well as they should. Ms. O'Hare stated her belief that early CTBS testing and diagnosing of students' needs will serve us well in the future, in that we will not need to hire outside contractors for our 6th graders who cannot read. She noted Mr. Lawrence's presentation regarding the new organization at the last council meeting. Board members were encouraged to attend the Northeast Area pre-budget meeting, if possible.
Ms. Laura Nossel, President of the PTA Council of Baltimore County, was encouraged to hear Board members' dialogue and questions this evening. She noted parents and guardians are appreciative of local school staffs for their handling of the situation that occurred on September 11th. She reminded Board members of her comments from a previous meeting where she asked for an evaluation of the school system's emergency plans and how the system communicates with parents.
Mr. Michael Franklin, Vice President of the PTA Council of Baltimore County, invited Board members to the Fall Workshop to be held on October 25th and 6 p.m. at Cockeysville Middle School. He thanked Ms. Norman and school system staff for their assistance in putting together the workshop. Finally, Mr. Franklin noted the PTA Council's new web site would be launched in about a week.
Mr. Rodger Janssen thanked Board members for
their time and effort on behalf of children
in Baltimore County. He mentioned he has not
had a response from the Board with respect to
the situation at Riverview Elementary School.
With respect to the earlier discussion about
student/teacher ratios, Mr. Janssen noted 38
students in an Algebra II class. Finally, Mr.
Janssen thanked staff for correcting a typographical
error in the Boundary Change policy.
At 9:55 p.m., Mr. Walker moved to adjourn the
open session. The motion was seconded by Mr.
Kennedy and approved by the Board.
Respectfully submitted,
___________________
Joe A. Hairston
Secretary-Treasurer
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