ROSE TREE MEDIA SCHOOL DISTRICT
BOARD OF SCHOOL DIRECTORS
Legislative Agenda
March 22, 2012
7:30 p.m.
I.
Call to Order
II.
Approval of Minutes
A.
III.
Penncrest High School Indoor Boys Track 4 x 800 Relay Team
Penncrest High School State Wrestling Championship
2011 Teacher As Hero Award – Nancy Gheysens
Excellence in Teaching Award – Jayne Walker
Rose Tree Elementary School Rumble
Reports
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
F.
G.
VI.
Legislative Meeting Minutes of February 23, 2012
Educational Presentation
A.
V.
Roll Call
Presentations and Awards
A.
B.
C.
D.
IV.
Pledge of Allegiance
Student Liaison Reports
Board Liaison Reports
Committee Highlights and Reports
School Reports
Superintendent’s Report
Solicitor’s Report
President’s Report
Scheduled Presentations (Limited to Five Minutes Each)
A.
Agenda
RTMEA – Sue Williamson
1
March 22, 2012
VII.
Unscheduled Presentations (Limited to Three Minutes Each)
A.
VIII.
Old Business
A.
IX.
None
New Business
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
X.
Rose Tree Media Residents
Personnel
1.
Terminations
a.
Professional
b.
Non-Instructional
2.
Nominations
a.
Professional
b.
Non-Instructional
3.
General
a.
Supplemental Contracts
b.
Salary Change
c.
Elimination of Position
d.
Create New Position
Overnight Trips
1.
Springton Lake Science Olympiad – Juniata College, Huntingdon, PA
2.
Penncrest Science Olympiad – Juniata College, Huntingdon, PA
3.
Penncrest Men’s Outdoor Leadership Club – Phoenicia, NY
4.
Penncrest Women’s Outdoor Leadership Club – Shawankunks, NY
2012-13 School Year Calendar - Draft – See Attachment A
Expulsion of Student #60394
Addendum – Personnel
1.
Terminations
a. Professional
2.
Resignation
a.
Professional
Finance
A.
B.
Agenda
Purchasing
1.
Bus Bids
2.
Shredding Proposal
General
1.
Budgetary Transfers
2.
2007 Del-Val Bonds – See Attachment B
3.
Springfield Psychological
4.
Contract with Elwyn
5.
Contract with Easter Seals
2
March 22, 2012
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
C.
D.
XI.
Subscription Renewals
Textbooks and Software
Chartwells Dining Services
Safe Schools Targeted Grant
Increased State Funding for K-12 Public Education – Attachment C
Financials for February 2012
Bill Lists for February 2012
Adjournment
ANNOUNCEMENT
There will be an executive session of the School Board for matters of personnel at
6:30 p.m. prior to the Legislative Meeting of April 26, 2012, at Penncrest High School.
The Legislative Meetings are recorded on tape.
Agenda
3
March 22, 2012
EXCELLENCE
TODAY
FOR TOMORROW
Rose Tree Media School District
308 North Olive Street
Media, Pennsylvania 19063-2493
Telephone: 610-627-.6000
Fax: 610-891-0959
www.rtmsd.org
Mr. James M. Wigo, Sr.
Superintendent of Schools
To:
From:
Date:
Subject:
I.
Grace A. Eves, Board Secretary
Director of Management Services
Members of the Board of School Directors
James Wigo, Superintendent
Grace A. Eves, Board Secretary
February 23, 2012
Minutes of the February 23, 2012 Legislative Meeting Minutes
Call to Order
Pledge of Allegiance
Board Members in Attendance:
Students:
Linda Kinsler-Fox, President
John Hanna -Vice President
Peter Barry
Nancy Fronduti
Chris Guilday
Elizabeth Schneider
Absent:
Roll Call
Jaclyn Turet
Sara Fitzpatrick
Zachary Shauerman
Sivan Alouf
Absent:
Nancy Mackrides
William Montgomery
William O’Donnell
Also in Attendance:
Ron Baldino, Supervisor of Maintenance
Pat Barta, Supervisor Special Education
William Bennett, Principal, Indian Lane Elem.
Linda Bluebello, Director of Pupil Services
Eric Bucci, PHS Assistant Principal
Anne Callahan, Human Resource Director
Bernadette Dacanay, Home & School Visitor
Karen Daugherty, Principal, Rose Tree Elem.
Grace Eves, Dir. Management Services
Angela Gilbert, Dir Teach. & Learn. Elem.
Ron Harris, Network Specialist
Ralph Harrison, Ass’t. Principal, PHS
II. Legislative Minutes of February 23, 2012
Anthony Jackowski, PHS Assistant Principal
Heather Hogan, Accountant
Joyce Jeuell, Principal, SLMS
Mack Johnson, Mgmt. Spec. for SMS and FMS
Thomas Kelly, Solicitor
Patti Linden, Dir.Tech. & Info. Sci.
Kim McCann-Roller, Info. Tech. Spec.
Chip Olinger, Athletic Director
Roxanne Schupp, Supervisor Business Operations
Sharon Sweeney, Ass’t. Principal, PCHS
Steve Taylor, Dir. Teach. & Learn. Sec.
Katherine White, Ass’t. Principal SLMS
James Wigo, Superintendent of Schools
1
March 22, 2012
II.
Approval of Minutes
A.
Legislative Meeting of January 26, 2012
B.
Bid Opening Minutes of February 1, 2012 - Buses
C.
Bid Opening Minutes – February 8, 2012, Media Elementary School
Large Group Room and Library Air Conditioner Replacement
Mr. Hanna moved and Mrs. Fronduti seconded a motion to adopt
the following resolution:
RESOLUTION: 2011 - 2012 – 73
Resolve, that the Board approve the Legislative Meeting Minutes of
January 26, 2012, Bid Opening Minutes of February 1, 2012,
and the Bid Opening Minutes of February 8, 2012.
The aforementioned resolution was declared adopted by the
Chair, the vote being:
AYES:
John Hanna, Peter Barry, Linda Kinsler-Fox,
Nancy Fronduti, Chris Guilday, Elizabeth Schneider
NAYS:
None
ABSENT: Nancy Mackrides, William Montgomery, William O’Donnell
III.
Presentations and Awards
A.
IV.
None
Educational Presentation - Dr. Joyce Jeuell
Rolling in the Notes at SLMS - Kayla Allen, Robert Bacheler,
Renee Bilbrough, Alex Boleto, Melissa Callahan, Michaela Carn, Callista
Chartier, Louis Croquette, Jessica Davis, Allison D'Ignazio, Francesca
D'Ignazio-Pascal, Emily Ditzel, Nicolas Doris, Emily Egan, Kristian Emmons,
Isabella Evangelista, Shallyn Fanjoy, Gabbie Fonseca, Liam Forsythe,
Nicole Foster, Maura Gaffney, Dennis Harrsch, Kaitlyn Herron, Cali Holber,
Kirsten Huebner, Rachel Hughes, Aliya Kalman, Tami Katz, Beth Katz, Jack
Kirchhoff, Maddie Kreitzberg, Katie Lane, McKenzie Lewis, Matt Lomas,
Wayne Matsinger, Claire McGlinchey, Annalise McLarnon, Cassidy Moretti,
Joliet Nicholson, Tamara Orens, Marina Parsons, Mrunalini Patil, Katie
Phillips, Paige Purnell,Jackie Ranieri, Gabrielle Rubin, Natalia San Antonio,
Olivia Stallings, Chingching Taing,Maddie Thompson and Willa Thompson
II. Legislative Minutes of February 23, 2012
2
March 22, 2012
V.
Reports
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
F.
Student Liaison Reports
Board Liaison Reports - None
Committee Highlights and Reports – In Official Legislative
Minutes of February 23, 2012
School Reports – In Official Legislative Minutes of
February 23, 2012
Superintendent’s Report – In Official Legislative Minutes of
February 23, 2012
Solicitor’s Report - In Official Legislative Minutes of
February 23, 2012.
Mr. Hanna moved and Mrs. Fronduti seconded a motion to adopt the
following resolution:
RESOLUTION: 2011 - 2012 – 74
A.
Real Estate Tax Assessment Appeal – Susan Whiteside
Year 2010
Resolve, that the Board approve the Solicitor’s request to
authorize to settle the tax appeal filed by the Rose Tree Media
School District in accordance with the Attachment in the Solicitor’s
report in the Official Legislative Minutes of February 23, 2012.
The aforementioned resolution was declared adopted by the
Chair, the vote being:
AYES:
G.
VI.
Scheduled Presentations (Limited to Five Minutes Each)
A.
VII.
RTMEA – Sue Williamson
Unscheduled Presentations (Limited to Three Minutes Each)
A.
VIII.
John Hanna, Peter Barry, Linda Kinsler-Fox,
Nancy Fronduti, Chris Guilday, Elizabeth Schneider
NAYS:
None
ABSENT: Nancy Mackrides, William Montgomery,
William O’Donnell
President’s Report - In Official Legislative Minutes of
February 23, 2012
Rose Tree Media Residents
Old Business
A.
None
II. Legislative Minutes of February 23, 2012
3
March 22, 2012
IX.
New Business
A.
Personnel
1.
Terminations
a.
Professional
b.
Non-Instructional
2.
Nominations
a.
Professional
b.
Non-Instructional
3.
General
a.
Unpaid Leave of Absence
b.
Rescind Supplemental Contracts
Mrs. Fronduti moved and Mr. Hanna seconded a motion to
adopt the following resolution:
RESOLUTION: 2011-2012 - 75
Resolve, that the School Board approve the following :
1.
Terminations
a.
Professional
1.
2.
Kathleen Osgood, ESL Teacher, Springton
Lake Middle School, resignation, effective
March 2, 2012.
Nominations
a.
Professional
1.
Lorraine Bury, Homebound Instructor for
the 2011-2012 school year at the rate of
$46.00 per hour.
2.
II. Legislative Minutes of February 23, 2012
Judy Raichek, (.2) LTS Gifted Teacher.
This is an extension of her LTS contract
from .8 Gifted Teacher to 1.0 Gifted
Teacher, effective August 29, 2011 at the
annual salary of $53,056, Master’s/Step 6
(.2) of this position will be a Long Term
Substitute for the first semester of the
2011-2012 school year. Ms. Raichek is
assigned to Springton Lake Middle School.
4
March 22, 2012
IX.
New Business
A.
Personnel
2.
Nominations
a.
b.
Professional
3.
Christy Thompson, Long Term Substitute
Elementary Teacher, effective January 30, 2012
at the annual salary of $45,289, Bachelor’s
Degree/Step 1 pro-rated for the 2ndsemester.
Ms. Thomson received her Bachelor’s Degree
from West Chester University. She served as a
Long Term Substitute in Rose Tree Media
School District during the 2010-2011 school year.
Ms. Thompson is assigned to Media Elementary
replacing Laura Mandia.
4.
Renee DiPietro, Long Term Substitute Language
Arts teacher, effective March 1, 2012 at the
annual salary of $52,309, Master’s Degree/Step 1
pro-rated to the end of the 2nd semester. Ms.
DiPietro received her Bachelor and Master’s
Degrees from Cabrini College. She is assigned to
Springton Lake Middle School replacing John
Dixon who resigned. NOTE: Ms. DiPietro is being
hired pending completion of her pre-employment
paperwork.
Non-Instructional
1.
Andrea Worley, Substitute Bus Driver, effective
February 10, 2012 at the rate of $21.53 per hour.
Ms. Worley is assigned to the Transportation
Department. NOTE: Ms. Worley is being hired
pending completion of her pre-employment
paperwork.
2.
Ruth Wigfield, Part Time Bus Aide effective
November 12, 2011 at the rate of $14.15 per
hour. Ms. Wigfield is assigned to the
Transportation Department.
II. Legislative Minutes of February 23, 2012
5
March 22, 2012
IX.
New Business
A.
Personnel
2.
Nominations
a.
3.
Non- Instructional
3.
Debra Saylor-Brown, Support Staff I, effective
March 1, 2012 at the rate of $12.66 per hour. Ms.
Saylor-Brown
is
assigned
to
Glenwood
Elementary School replacing Alice Linden who
retired. NOTE: Ms. Saylor-Brown is being hired
pending completion of her pre-employment
paperwork.
4.
Melonie Kaczynski, Support Staff II, Personal
Instructional Assistant, effective February 24,
2012 at the rate of $16.01 per hour. Ms.
Kaczynski is assigned to Penncrest High School
replacing Joy Keith who resigned. NOTE: Ms.
Kaczynski is being hired pending completion of
her pre-employment paperwork.
General
a.
Unpaid Leave of Absence
1.
b.
Amanda Sessa, change of date for unpaid leave
of absence, effective January 30, 2012 through
March 30, 2012.
Rescind Supplemental Contracts
1.
Rescind appointment of Margie Gilroy to (.5)
Student Council Advisor, Springton Lake Middle
School.
The aforementioned resolution was declared adopted by
the Chair, the vote being:
AYES:
NAYS:
ABSENT:
II. Legislative Minutes of February 23, 2012
John Hanna, Peter Barry, Linda Kinsler-Fox,
Nancy Fronduti, Chris Guilday, Elizabeth Schneider
None
Nancy Mackrides, William Montgomery,
William O’Donnell
6
March 22, 2012
IX.
New Business
A.
Personnel
3.
General
c.
Supplemental Contracts – See Attachments A and B
Mrs. Fronduti moved and Mr. Hanna seconded a motion
to adopt the following resolution:
RESOLUTION: 2011-2012 - 76
Resolve, that the Board approve the following:
1.
Aaron Goldfarb, Title I Summer School Director
effective July 2, 2012 through July 31, 2012 at the
annual salary of $3,500.
2.
Maureen Shields, Field Hockey Club Sponsor at
the annual salary of $290.00. Ms. Shields is
assigned to Media Elementary.
3.
Claire McGeehan, Garden Club Sponsor at the
annual salary of $145.00. Ms. McGeehan is
assigned to Media Elementary.
4.
Recommend Board approval of the Springton
Lake Middle School Spring Athletic Supplemental
Contracts for the 2011-2012 school year. See
Attachment A in Official Legislative Minutes of
February 23, 2012.
5.
Recommend Board approval of the Penncrest
High School Spring Athletic Supplemental
Contracts for the 2011-2012 school year. See
Attachment B in Official Legislative Minutes of
February 23, 2012.
II. Legislative Minutes of February 23, 2012
7
March 22, 2012
IX.
New Business
A.
Personnel
3.
General
c.
Supplemental Contracts
6.
Recommend approval for the following Glenwood
Elementary Personnel to serve as Club Sponsors
for the 2011-2012 school year:
Rachael Pinsley
Angel Barry
Anthony Grisillo
Julie Denton
Kathyrn Hong
Kathryn Hong
Charles Keeler
Anthony Grisillo
Reading Olympics
Reading Olympics
EnviroChallenge
EnviroChallenge
Rhythm in Motion
Chorus
Lego/Robotics
Lego/Robotics
$ 870.00
$ 870.00
$ 580.00
$ 580.00
$ 580.00
$1,160.00
$ 580.00
$ 580.00
The aforementioned resolution was declared adopted by
the Chair, the vote being:
AYES:
NAYS:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:
II. Legislative Minutes of February 23, 2012
John Hanna, Linda Kinsler-Fox,
Nancy Fronduti, Chris Guilday
Elizabeth Schneider
None
Peter Barry
Nancy Mackrides, William Montgomery,
William O’Donnell
8
March 22, 2012
IX.
New Business
A.
Personnel
4.
Employee Grievances
1.
2.
Paul Griglione
Tonya Melchior
Mr. Hanna moved Mrs. Fronduti seconded a motion to
Adopt the following resolution:
RESOLUTION: 2011-2012 - 77
1.
Paul Griglione
Resolve, that the Report Containing Findings of
Fact, Discussion, Conclusions of Law and
Recommendation issued by the Committee of the
Board of School Directors of the Rose Tree Media
School District pertaining to the step 4 grievance
filed by grievant, Paul Griglione, is hereby
accepted and adopted and said grievance is
denied. Be it further resolved, that Paul Griglione
is removed and dismissed from his employment
with Rose Tree Media School District, effective
immediately.
2.
Tonya Melchior
Further resolve, that the Level 3 Grievance
Hearing
Recommended
Decisions
and
Dispositions issued by the Committee of the
Board of School Directors of the Rose Tree Media
School District be accepted and adopted thereby
denying Grievance Nos. 2012-1 and 2012-2
submitted by Grievant, Tonya Melchior.
The aforementioned resolution was declared
adopted by the Chair, the vote being:
AYES:
NAYS:
ABSENT:
II. Legislative Minutes of February 23, 2012
9
John Hanna, Peter Barry,
Linda Kinsler-Fox,
Nancy Fronduti, Chris Guilday,
Elizabeth Schneider
None
Nancy Mackrides, William Montgomery,
William O’Donnell
March 22, 2012
IX.
New Business
B.
Overnight Trips
1.
Penncrest High School Band – Washington, DC.
2.
Penncrest Envirothon – University of Pittsburgh-Johnstown
3.
Penncrest Girls’ Track and Field – State College, PA
4.
Penncrest High School Wrestling Team – Bloomsburg, PA
5.
Penncrest High School Latin Class – Rome and Florence, Italy
6.
Penncrest High School French Cultural Exchange – Paris and
Avignon, France
Mr. Hanna moved and Mrs. Fronduti seconded a
motion to adopt the following resolution:
RESOLUTION: 2011-2012 - 78
1.
Penncrest High School Band – Washington, DC.
Resolve, that the Board approve the overnight trip for
the Penncrest Band to Washington, DC, 5/4/12 – 5/6/12.
2.
Penncrest Envirothon – University of PittsburghJohnstown
Further resolve, that the Board approve the overnight
trip for the Penncrest Envirothon to the University of
Pittsburgh- Johnstown, 5/22/12 – 5/24/12.
3.
Penncrest Girls’ Track and Field – State College, PA
Further resolve, that the Board approve the overnight
trip for the Penncrest Girls Track & Field team to State
College, PA, 5/25/12 – 5/26/12.
4.
Penncrest High School Wrestling Team – Bloomsburg,
PA
Further resolve, that the Board approve the overnight
trip for the Penncrest Wrestling Team to Bloomsburg,
PA, 7/8/12 – 7/12/12.
5.
Penncrest High School Latin Class – Rome and
Florence, Italy
Further resolve, that the Board approve the overnight
trip for the Penncrest Latin Class to Rome & Florence,
Italy, 6/25/13 – 7/4/13.
II. Legislative Minutes of February 23, 2012
10
March 22, 2012
IX.
New Business
B.
Overnight Trips
6.
Penncrest High School French Cultural Exchange –
Paris and Avignon, France
Further resolve, that the Board approve the overnight trip
for Penncrest French students to Paris & Avignon, France,
3/14/13 – 3/28/13.
The aforementioned resolution was declared adopted by
the Chair, the vote being:
AYES:
NAYS:
ABSENT:
C.
John Hanna, Peter Barry, Linda Kinsler-Fox,
Nancy Fronduti, Chris Guilday,
Elizabeth Schneider
None
Nancy Mackrides, William Montgomery,
William O’Donnell
Expulsion of Student #50685
Mrs. Fronduti moved and Mr. Guilday seconded a motion to
adopt the following resolution:
RESOLUTION: 2011-2012 - 79
Resolve, that, pursuant to the waiver of the Due Process
Hearing signed by students’ parents, student #50685 shall be
immediately removed from the School District and placed at an
alternate school placement at the parent’s sole expense for the
duration of the 2011-2012 school year and the first semester of
the 2012-2013 school year.
Subject to the student’s
performance at the alternate school, the student may be
eligible to apply for re-admittance to the school district for the
second semester of the2012-2013 school year, subject to
School District approval.
The aforementioned resolution was declared adopted by the
Chair, the vote being:
AYES:
NAYS:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:
II. Legislative Minutes of February 23, 2012
John Hanna, Peter Barry, Nancy Fronduti, Chris
Guilday, Elizabeth Schneider
None
Linda Kinsler-Fox
Nancy Mackrides, William Montgomery,
William O’Donnell
11
March 22, 2012
X.
Finance
A.
B.
Purchasing
1.
Bid Awards
General
1.
Budgetary Transfers
2.
Donation – Penncrest
Mr. Hanna moved and Mrs. Fronduti seconded a motion to
adopt the following resolution:
RESOLUTION: 80
A.
Purchasing
1.
Bid Awards
Resolve, that the following bids be awarded:
a.
Masonry Restoration (cafeteria) at Indian Lane
Elementary School
Contractor
P & S Incorporated
b.
Large Group Room & Library A/C Replacement at
Media Elementary School
Contractor
Base Bid
Electrical
AJM Electric, Inc. $ 28,900
Mechanical
Gaudelli Bros., Inc. $274,200
II. Legislative Minutes of February 23, 2012
Base Bid
$19,950
12
Alternate Bid
$ 3,900
$24,800
March 22, 2012
X.
Finance
B.
General
1.
Budgetary Transfers
Further resolve, that the Board approve the following
Budgetary Transfers:
FY 12-9 Fund 10 General Fund
FROM:
AMOUNT:
Instruction – Books
$7,456.20
TO:
AMOUNT:
Instruction – New Equipment
$7,456.20
RATIONALE: Transfer needed to purchase musical
instruments and accessories for our Elementary music
program.
FY 12-10 Fund 10 General Fund
FROM:
AMOUNT:
Instruction – New Equipment
$2,102.00
TO:
AMOUNT:
Technology – New Equipment
$2,102.00
RATIONALE: Transfer needed for netbook purchase for
Career Center.
II. Legislative Minutes of February 23, 2012
13
March 22, 2012
X.
Finance
B.
General
1.
Budgetary Transfers (continued)
FY 12-11 Fund 10 General Fund
FROM:
AMOUNT:
Curriculum Development - Supplies
$1,640.00
TO:
AMOUNT:
Office of the Principal - Supplies
$1,640.00
RATIONALE: Transfer needed to purchase administrative
and building yearbooks.
2.
Donation-Penncrest
Further resolve, that the School Board accept the donation
of weight room equipment by the football boosters.
The aforementioned resolution was declared adopted by the
Chair, the vote being:
AYES:
NAYS:
ABSENT:
II. Legislative Minutes of February 23, 2012
John Hanna, Peter Barry, Linda Kinsler-Fox
Nancy Fronduti, Chris Guilday, Elizabeth Schneider
None
Nancy Mackrides, William Montgomery
William O’Donnell
14
March 22, 2012
X.
Finance
B.
General
3.
Chester County IU Joint Purchasing Agreement
Mrs. Hanna moved and Mrs. Fronduti seconded a motion to
adopt the following resolution:
RESOLUTION: 2011-2012 - 81
3.
Chester County IU Joint Purchasing Agreement
Resolve, that the School Board approve the joint
purchasing agreement with the Chester County IU for
the opportunity to expand the District’s purchasing
power.
The aforementioned resolution was declared adopted by
the Chair, the vote being:
AYES:
NAYS:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:
II. Legislative Minutes of February 23, 2012
John Hanna, Peter Barry, Nancy Fronduti,
Chris Guilday, Elizabeth Schneider
None
Linda Kinsler-Fox
Nancy Mackrides, William Montgomery
William O’Donnell
15
March 22, 2012
X.
Finance
B.
General
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
Bonnett Associates Architectural and Engineering Professional
Roofing Resources Professional Services Fee for Penncrest
Roofing Resources Professional Services Fee for Glenwood
Elementary School
G. D. Houtman & Son Professional Services fee for Penncrest
High School, Glenwood and Indian Lane Elementary Schools
G. D. Houtman & Son Professional Services fee for Springton
Lake Middle School
Provident Energy Proposal
Fantasy World Entertainment Contract
Contract with the Wilson Language Training Corporation
Level 3 Services Renewal – See Attachment C
Widener University Internet Access Service Agreement – See
Attachment D
Addendum to Side Area Network License Agreement – See
Attachment E
Mrs. Fronduti moved and Mr. Hanna seconded a motion to
adopt the following resolution:
RESOLUTION: 2011-2012 - 82
4.
Bonnett Associates Architectural and Engineering
Professional Services
Resolve, that the School Board approve Bonnett
Associates Architectural and Engineering Professional
Services Fees for 2012 – 2013 Capital Projects as
follows:
Replace various sets of exterior doors and frames at
Penncrest High School, Media Elementary, and Rose
Tree Elementary – Fixed Fee $5,100 plus reimbursables
at direct cost.
Glenwood – Stage Curtain (back) – Fixed Fee $4,800
plus reimbursables at direct cost
Elementary Schools – Phase I Painting of Classrooms –
Fixed Fee $7,400 plus reimbursables at direct cost
II. Legislative Minutes of February 23, 2012
16
March 22, 2012
X.
Finance
B.
General
5.
Roofing Resources Professional Services Fee for
Penncrest
Further resolve, that the School Board approve Roofing
Resources Professional Services Fee for Penncrest
Phase II Masonry Restoration (Auditorium & Boiler
Room Chimney) – not to exceed fee of $42,221.
6.
Roofing Resources Professional Services Fee for Glenwood
Elementary School
Further resolve, that the School Board approve Roofing
Resources Professional Services Fee for Glenwood
Elementary School Waterproofing Exterior Envelope Roofing
Resources Professional Services Fee for Glenwood
Elementary School Waterproofing Exterior Envelope – not to
exceed fee of $5,800.
7.
G. D. Houtman & Son Professional Services fee for
Penncrest High School, Glenwood and Indian Lane
Elementary Schools
Further resolve, that the School Board approve G. D. Houtman
& Son Professional Services fee for Penncrest High School,
Glenwood and Indian Lane Elementary Schools Repaving and
Indian Lane Storm Sewer Improvements - not to exceed fee of
$10,970.
8.
G. D. Houtman & Son Professional Services fee for
Springton Lake Middle School
Further resolve, that the School Board approve G. D. Houtman
& Son Professional Services fee for Springton Lake Middle
School G. D. Houtman & Son Professional Services fee for
Springton Lake Middle School Stream Bank Stabilization
Project – not to exceed fee of $9,090.
II. Legislative Minutes of February 23, 2012
17
March 22, 2012
X.
Finance
B.
General
9.
Provident Energy Proposal
Further resolve, that the School Board approve a proposal from
Provident Energy to provide energy savings consulting
services.
10.
Fantasy World Entertainment Contract
Further resolve, that the School Board approve a contract in
the amount of $2,500 with Fantasy World Entertainment to
provide equipment for Penncrest Pride Day events. Funding is
from the Penncrest student body account.
11.
Contract with the Wilson Language Training Corporation
Resolve, that the Board approve an agreement with the Wilson
Language Training Corporation for the provision of a series of
training events on the Wilson Reading System (WRS) and
Wilson Language Training (WLT) to occur during the 20112012 school year. Professional development will be
implemented over the course of the year beginning with a start
up session in November and five onsite coaching sessions for
each participant. Eleven teachers will be enrolled. The total for
the training is $23,306.25. See Attachment B in Official
Legislative Minutes of February 23, 2012.
12.
Level 3 Services Renewal
Further resolve, that the Board approve the Level 3
Communications Renewal of the Master Service Agreement for
Voice Services for the Rose Tree Media School District. The
renewal of the agreement will be in effect for a period of three
(3) years commencing on July 1, 2012 and ending June 30,
2015. See Attachment C in Official Legislative Minutes of
February 23, 2012.
II. Legislative Minutes of February 23, 2012
18
March 22, 2012
X.
Finance
B.
General
13.
Widener University Internet Access Service Agreement
Further resolve, that the Board approve the Internet Access
Service Agreement between Widener University and the Rose
Tree Media School District for a yearly fee of Twenty two
thousand one hundred thirty five dollars ($22,135.00). The
renewal of the agreement will be in effect for a period of three
(3) years commencing on July 1, 2012 and ending June 30,
2015. See Attachment D in Official Legislative Minutes of
February 23, 2012.
14.
Addendum to Wide Area Network License Agreement
Further resolve, that the Board approve the Addendum No.
2011-01 to Wide Area Network License Agreement between
Sunesys, LLC and the Rose Tree Media School District for the
managed fiber connection between Rose Tree Media School
District and Widener University. The renewal of the agreement
will be in effect for a period of three (3) years commencing on
July 1, 2012 and ending June 30, 2015, for a renewal fee of
one thousand dollars ($1000.00) per month. See Attachment E
in Official Legislative Minutes of February 23, 2012.
The aforementioned resolution was declared adopted by the
Chair, the vote being:
AYES:
John Hanna, Peter Barry, Linda Kinsler-Fox,
Nancy Fronduti, Chris Guilday, Elizabeth Schneider
NAYS:
None
ABSENT: Nancy Mackrides, William Montgomery
William O’Donnell
II. Legislative Minutes of February 23, 2012
19
March 22, 2012
X.
Finance
C.
D.
Financials for January 2012
Bill Lists for January 2012
Mr. Hanna moved and Mrs. Fronduti seconded a motion to adopt the
following resolution:
RESOLUTION: 2011-2012 – 83
Resolve, that the Board approve the following:
C.
Financial Reports
January
January
January
January
D.
2012
2012
2012
2012
Treasurers Reports
Investment Reports
Summary Expenditure Status Report
Revenue Status Report
Bill Lists
January
2012 General Fund Bill List
$ 2,126,161.29
January
2012 Imprest Fund Bill List
$
7,039.25
January
2012 Capital Fund Bill List
$
202,719.66
January
2012 Bond Series 2004 Bill List
$
32,422.00
January
2012 Bond Series 2010 A & 2012
$ 1,504,028.73
January
2012 Activities/Special Revenue Fund
$
57,504.74
$ 3,929,875.62
The aforementioned resolution was declared adopted by the Chair, the vote
being:
AYES:
NAYS:
ABSENT:
John Hanna, Peter Barry, Linda Kinsler-Fox,
Nancy Fronduti, Chris Guilday, Elizabeth Schneider
None
Nancy Mackrides, William Montgomery, William O’Donnell
II. Legislative Minutes of February 23, 2012
20
March 22, 2012
XI.
Adjournment
Mr. Hanna moved and Mr. Barry seconded a motion to adopt the following
resolution:
RESOLUTION: 2011-2012 – 84
Resolve, that there being no further business to come before the Board, the
meeting was adjourned.
The aforementioned resolution was declared adopted by the Chair, the vote
being:
AYES:
NAYS:
ABSENT:
John Hanna, Peter Barry, Linda Kinsler-Fox,
Nancy Fronduti, Chris Guilday, Elizabeth Schneider
None
Nancy Mackrides, William Montgomery, William O’Donnell
______________________
Grace A. Eves
School Board Secretary
II. Legislative Minutes of February 23, 2012
21
March 22, 2012
III.
Presentations and Awards
A.
Penncrest High School Indoor Boys Track 4 x 800 Relay Team
Resolve, the Board present the Rose Tree Media Award to the
Penncrest High School State 4 x 800 Relay Silver Medalists: Ali
Dastagirzada, Nathan Emanuel, Zack Kline and Patrick Miller.
These young men participated in the Penn State Indoor Track and
Field Championships. They ran the 4 x 800 in 7 minutes and 55
seconds. Coaches for the Indoor Track team are George Munro
and Rob Brown.
B.
Penncrest High School State Wrestling Championship
Resolve, that the Board present the Rose Tree Media Award to
Penncrest High School Junior, Joe Gartland. Joe reached the third
round status in the State Wrestling Championships held in Hershey,
PA. He is the only wrestler from Delaware County to win one
match. Joe is 1st Team All Delco. Coaches for the Wrestling team
include Patrick Carney, William Harmon, Greg Jacobs and Bill
Mowbray.
C.
2011 Teacher As Hero Award
Resolve, that the Board present the Rose Tree Media Award to
Nancy Gheysens, Rose Tree Elementary School Teacher for being
chosen as the recipient of the 2011 Teacher As Hero Award. This
yearly recognition program, sponsored by State Farm, honors
outstanding educations in the Delaware Valley. The qualifications
to receive this award are: the teacher has provided many years of
service in the field of education, volunteers in her community
outside of school, demonstrates exceptional creativity in the
classroom, defuses violence and bullying among students,
perseveres despite increasing challenges and serves as a role
model to other teachers. The award was presented to Mrs.
Gheysens at a special ceremony at the National Liberty Museum.
D.
Excellence in Teaching Award
Resolve, that the Board present the Rose Tree Media Award to
Mrs. Jayne Walker, a grade two teacher at Media Elementary
School. Mrs. Walker was recently selected to be honored with an
Excellence in Teaching Award from The Franklin Mint Credit Union.
Mrs. Walker is a thirty two year veteran in RTMSD. She holds
certification and has taught in both elementary and special
education. Mrs. Walker was nominated by her professional
colleagues.
III. Presentations and Awards
1
March 22, 2012
EXCELLENCE
TODAY
FOR TOMORROW
Rose Tree Media School District
308 North Olive Street
Media, Pennsylvania 19063-2493
Telephone: 610-627-.6000
Fax: 610-891-0959
www.rtmsd.org
Grace A. Eves
Director of Management Service
Mr. James M Wigo, Sr.
Superintendent of Schools
To:
Members of the Board of School Directors
James M. Wigo, Superintendent
From:
Grace A. Eves, Director of Management Services
Date:
March 16, 2012
Subject:
March 13, 2012 Finance Committee Minutes
Chairperson: William O’Donnell
______________________________________________________________________
In Attendance: William O’Donnell, Peter Barry, John Hanna, Nancy Mackrides,
William Montgomery, Elizabeth Schneider, Nancy Fronduti
Absent: Linda Kinsler-Fox, Chris Guilday
Also in Attendance: Ken Phillips and Jim Gray - RBC Capital, Linda Bluebello, Patti
Linden, Kim McCann-Roller, Anne Callahan, Jim Wigo and Grace Eves.
______________________________________________________________________
Ken Phillips Presentation
Ken Phillips from RBC Capital presented options for borrowing funds for capital
projects. The savings from the project can be used to offset the debt. An option for
borrowing $8 million was also presented. The additional $4 million could be used to fund
other capital projects. By using the savings from the energy project and extending the
District’s debt service for one additional year, borrowing $8 million becomes
revenue/expenditure neutral because the mills are already built into the budget. Mr.
Phillips also indicated that interest rates are at 55 year lows. Mr. Phillips also reviewed
the 2007 Del-Val bond. The District has saved over $1.8 million over the past 5 years
due to the low interest rate on this variable rate debt. However, the rate could increase.
He presented the option of adopting a resolution that will allow the District to lock into a
fixed rate when the rate reaches 2%. The resolution will be in effect for as long as the
District desires for it to be active. The Board agreed to adopt the resolution at the March
Legislative Meeting. The option for an advanced refunding for the 2004A bonds was
presented. The District has the one time opportunity to advance refund for the term of
the bonds. The call date for the bonds is August of 2014. However, the District might
have the opportunity to achieve a savings if that savings is 2% and we are currently at
4%. He will continue to monitor the market and report back to the committee.
Action: The resolution for the 2007 bond will be moved to the March 22, Legislative
Agenda for approval.
Bids and Proposals
•
Bus bids
The Administration recommended the award of four 72 passenger buses to
Wolfington for $314,464 and two 48 passenger buses to M.A. Brightbill for
$155,150. The results of the bid were reviewed by the District’s solicitor. The bid
came in $69,614 over budget, but the bids were under budget over the past 2
years. One of the 48 passenger buses is a replacement from an accident from
earlier this year. The District received insurance proceeds of $37,650, which will
offset some of the costs.
Action: This item will be moved to the March 22, Legislative Agenda for
approval.
•
Shredding Proposal
The current contract for shredding services will expire in May. The District
currently pays $75 per console. The new proposal from Priority Shred is $15 per
console. Priority Shred is a local company.
Action: This item will be moved to the March 22, Legislative Agenda for
approval.
•
PSBA Program Proposal for 2012
The Superintendent, Rick Gregg, Maria Kotch and Karen Daugherty are
interested in submitting a proposal.
Action: Discussion
•
Springfield Psychological
Contract ratification for psychological services was presented. One of the
District’s psychologist resigned in February and a replacement has not been
found. The District has 30 days to perform a student psychological evaluation
from the date of the request. Springfield Psychological will provide these
services on an as need basis until a replacement can be found. Their rates are
$350 to $450 per hour for testing and reporting.
Action: This contract will be ratified at the March 22, Legislative Agenda for
approval.
Budget Comparison
The District received 93% of its revenue and expensed 82% of its expenditures. Other
Objects and Other Uses of Funds have increased due to the final borrowing for the
Springton Lake project.
Action: Discussion
Budgetary Transfer
FY 12-12 Fund 10 General Fund
FROM:
AMOUNT:
Instruction – Supplies
$4,000.00
TO:
AMOUNT:
Care & Upkeep of Equipment Services – Replacement Equipment
$4,000.00
RATIONALE: Transfer needed to purchase three cafeteria tables with benches.
FY 12-13 Fund 10 General Fund
FROM:
AMOUNT:
Instruction & Curriculum Development – Supplies
$3,100.00
TO:
AMOUNT:
Office of the Principal - Discretionary
$2,600.00
TO:
AMOUNT:
Instruction - Travel
$ 500.00
RATIONALE: Transfer needed for “Artist in Residence” and Media PTG to help defray
the cost of the 5th grade recognition breakfast. Transfer is also needed for
Itinerant Teacher’s monthly expense reports.
FY 12-15 Fund 10 General Fund
FROM:
AMOUNT:
School Sponsored Athletics – Dues and Fees
$1,500.00
TO:
AMOUNT:
School Sponsored Athletics – Travel
$1,500.00
RATIONALE: Transfer needed to fund Spring Travel.
FY 12-16 Fund 10 General Fund
FROM:
AMOUNT:
Technology Support Services – New Equipment
$1,200.00
TO:
AMOUNT:
Instruction - Travel
$1,200.00
RATIONALE: Transfer needed for additional teachers to attend conferences to help
support curriculum at Glenwood Elementary School
Action: This item will be moved to the March 22, Legislative Agenda for approval.
2012/2013 Instructional Programs Budget Review
The 2012/2013 Instructional programs budget was reviewed. Expenditures for
Instructional Programs will increase by 3.18%. The majority of the increase is related to
the retirement rate increasing from 8.65% to 12.36%, which is a 52% increase and
increases in health care rates. Health care rates will be reduced and presented at the
April Finance committee meeting. Additions and deletions for the 2012/2013 budget will
be presented at April’s Finance Committee Meeting. A Special Legislative Meeting will
be held on April 10, 2012, to approve the Proposed Final budget in compliance with the
ACT 1 time line from PDE. The District is required to adopt a proposed final budget at
least 30 days prior to adopting the final budget on May 24. The Administration will
continue to work on the budget until the adoption date of May 24, 2012.
Action: Discussion
Public Comment: Four members from the public were in attendance.
The next Finance Committee Meeting will be held on April 10, 2012.
EXCELLENCE
TODAY
FOR TOMORROW
Rose Tree Media School District
308 North Olive Street
Media, Pennsylvania 19063-2493
Telephone: 610-627-.6000
Fax: 610-891-0959
www.rtmsd.org
Grace A. Eves
Director of Management Services
Mr. James M. Wigo, Sr.
Superintendent of Schools
___
To:
Members of the Board of School Directors
Mr. James M. Wigo, Superintendent
From:
Grace A. Eves, Director of Management Services
Date:
March 16, 2012
Subject:
March 13, 2012 Operations Committee Minutes
Nancy Mackrides
___________________________________________________________________
In Attendance: William O’Donnell, Peter Barry, John Hanna, Nancy Mackrides,
William Montgomery, Elizabeth Schneider, Nancy Fronduti
Absent:
Linda Kinsler-Fox, Chris Guilday
Also in Attendance: Dennis Cini, Ron Baldino, Anne Callahan, Jim Wigo and
Grace Eves
______________________________________________________________________
Indian Lane Elementary School Sign Update
The approval of the sign is on Middletown Township’s agenda for their March 26
Council Meeting. Once approval is given, the PTG will be notified and can move
forward with the purchase and installation of the sign.
Action: Discussion
St. Mary Magdalene’s Football Team Lights
St. Mary Magdalene’s football team has submitted a facility use form for the usage of
the football field at the Springton Lake Middle School for the fall of 2012. They are also
requesting the use of portable lights during night practices. The committee
recommended St. Mary Madgalene contact Upper Province Township to ensure all local
lighting requirements are met.
Action: Discussion
Springton Lake Middle School Project Update
• Pool Management
o A meeting will be held shortly to review the District’s requirements for
hiring a pool management company to coincide with completion of the
project in September. The pool should be available later in the fall to the
public.
•
Furniture
o Three samples of desks and chairs were reviewed by the students and
staff of the Springton Lake Middle School. The students chose a desk and
chair that was comfortable and functional. The Administration is seeking
the use of $300,000 from the contingency fund to purchase desks and
chairs for the students and desks and chairs for the teachers as well as a
filing cabinet for each classroom. The contingency fund is approximately
$1.5 million and with the near completion of the project, it is not projected
to be fully used. The sample furniture is a product of KI and can be
purchased through a state contract. The administration will continue to
negotiate with KI.
Action: Discussion
2012/2013 Capital Projects Update
Dennis Cini and Ron Baldino are meeting with our consultants to formulate bid specs for
various capital projects throughout the District.
Action: Discussion
Capital Funds Summary
The District has approximately $2.3 million dollars in capital and construction funds,
exclusive of the Springton Lake Middle School project, to continue capital projects
throughout the next two years.
Action: Discussion
Equipment
The Administration was granted permission to dispose of obsolete vehicles and
equipment.
Action: Discussion
Public Comment
One member of the public was present.
The next Operations Committee meeting will be on April 10, 2012
EXCELLENCE
TODAY
FOR TOMORROW
James M. Wigo, Sr.
Superintendent of Schools
Rose Tree Media School District
308 North Olive Street
Media, Pennsylvania 19063-2493
Telephone: 610.627.6000
Fax: 610-891-0959
www.rtmsd.org
Anne D. Callahan
Director of Human Resources
To:
Members of the Board of School Directors
James M. Wigo, Sr., Superintendent
From:
Anne D. Callahan, Director of Human Resources
Date:
March 16, 2012
Subject:
Minutes of the Personnel Committee Meeting
Personnel Committee
March 13, 2012
In Attendance: W. O'Donnell, W. Montgomery, E. Schneider, P. Barry, N. Fronduti,
L. Fox, N. Mackrides, J. Hanna, Chair
Also in Attendance: J. Wigo, G. Eves, A. Callahan, L. Bluebello, P.Lindn, K.
McCann
I.
Legislative Items:
The committee reviewed the items to be presented for a vote at the Legislative
Meeting of the Board of School Directors on March 22, 2012.
All items will be moved to the agenda of the Legislative Meeting for a vote of the
full Board.
II.
Non-Athletic Supplemental Contracts - Springton Lake Middle School
The committee reviewed a request from Springton Lake Middle School to add a
number of non-athletic supplemental contracts, most of which are related to the
completion of the new auditorium and music complex at Springton Lake and the
desire to take full advantage of the new facility.
Also presented were a number of current non-athletic supplemental contracts
which are no longer functioning and can be eliminated. The net cost of the new
supplemental positions after the offset from the deleted supplemental positions
will be approximately $5,200.
The committee agreed to have creation of these new positions and the deletion
of the defunct positions placed on the agenda of the Legislative Meeting of March
22, 2012, for a vote of the full board.
III.
Executive Session
There was an executive session held to discuss matters of Personnel.
The next session of the Personnel Committee will be held on Tuesday, April 10,
2012.
Rose Tree Media School District
308 North Olive Street
Media, Pennsylvania 19063-2493
Telephone 610.627.6028
Fax 610.565.5317
www.rtmsd.org
James M. Wigo, Sr.
Superintendent of Schools
Linda Bluebello, Ed.D.
Director of Pupil Services
To:
Members of the Board of School Directors
James M. Wigo, Sr., Superintendent
From:
Linda Bluebello, Ed.D.
Date:
March 16, 2012
Subject:
March 13, 2012 Pupil Services Committee Meeting Minutes
Chairperson: Mrs. Nancy Fronduti
Board Members in Attendance: Linda Kinsler-Fox, John Hanna, Nancy Fronduti,
Peter Barry, Nancy Mackrides, Elizabeth Schneider, Bill Montgomery, Bill O’Donnell
Others in Attendance: Mr. Wigo, Dr. Bluebello, Skip Daino, Lisa Taddei, Anne
Callahan, Grace Eves, Patti Linden, Community members
Chartwells Dining Services
Dr. Bluebello presented to the Board the draft proposals for the Chartwells Dining
Services Renewal contract for the 2012-13 school year. The Board also received
additional information from Chartwells’ District Manager, Skip Daino, concerning
proposed changes in federal and state food regulations and potential pricing
ramifications. Mrs. Eves and Dr. Bluebello provided a year-to-date accounting of
revenue and expenditures for the food services fund. The Board also reviewed current
lunch prices in the county. Given an analysis of all financial information, the BSD
determined that a $.15 increase in school lunch prices for next school year would offset
some of the increased costs.
Action: Resolve that the Board approve the renewal contract with Chartwells
Dining Services for the 2012-2013 school year pending contract review by the
district solicitor and PDE.
OVERNIGHT TRIPS
Dr. Bluebello presented the following overnight trips for review:
The Springton Lake Middle School Science Olympiad team will compete in the state
competition at Juniata College, Huntingdon, PA ,4/26/12 – 4/27/12. The approximate
cost to the district is $2,421, which covers substitute teacher fees, transportation and
hotel/meals.
Action: Approval will be on the March 2012 Legislative Agenda.
Penncrest High School Science Olympiad team will compete in the state competition at
Juniata College, Huntingdon, PA ,4/26/12 – 4/28/12. The approximate cost to the
district is $4,544, which covers substitute teacher fees, transportation and hotel/meals.
Action: Approval will be on the March 2012 Legislative Agenda.
The Penncrest Men’s Outdoor Leadership Club will take a camping trip to Phoenicia,
NY (Catskills) on 5/4/12 – 5/6/12. The approximate cost to the district is $480, which
covers transportation fees.
Action: Approval will be on the March 2012 Legislative Agenda.
The Penncrest Women’s Outdoor Leadership Club will take a camping trip to The
Shawangunks, NY, on 5/4/12 – 5/6/12. There is no cost to the district for this trip.
Action: Approval will be on the March 2012 Legislative Agenda.
Safe Schools Targeted Grant
Dr. Bluebello shared that he RTMSD has been awarded a grant from the PA Dept. of
Education, Safe Schools Office, Safe Schools Targeted Grant Program in the amount of
$13,696. The grant will be used to implement The Responsive Classroom program in all
four of our elementary schools. The grant money will be spent on materials and staff
training.
Action: Approval will be on the March 2012 Legislative Agenda.
The next meeting of the Pupil Services committee will be April 10, 2012, at the
Education Center.
OFFICE OF TEACHING AND LEARNING
TO:
Members of the Board of School Directors
Mr. James M. Wigo, Superintendent of Schools
FROM:
Dr. Angela Gilbert, Director of Teaching and Learning - Elementary
Dr. Steve Taylor, Director of Teaching and Learning - Secondary
DATE:
March 13, 2012
RE:
March 13, 2012 Teaching & Learning Committee Meeting Minutes
Chairperson: Mr. Peter Barry
Board Members in Attendance: Peter Barry, Nancy Fronduti, John Hanna, Linda KinslerFox, Nancy Mackrides, William Montgomery, Liz Schneider
RTMSD Personnel in Attendance: Anne Callahan, Grace Eves, Angela Gilbert, Steve
Taylor, James Wigo
Special Education Contracts
Contracts from Elwyn and Easter Seals were presented to the Board, with a request that
they appear on the March Legislative Agenda for approval. One was submitted by Elwyn
for the Davidson School to provide one-to-one services for a student with special needs.
The cost is $160.34 per day. The student already attends Davidson and is in need of this
additional service to meet the goals in the IEP. The Davidson School is an approved private
school; therefore, a 4010 application will be filed. The Easter Seals contract is for the
provision of an Extended School Year (ESY) Program for a student with special needs. The
cost is $1,350.00 for four weeks. The aforementioned educational service is needed to
meet the needs of a student with significant disabilities. The student will receive these
services as indicated in the current IEP. The Board gave approval for both to appear on the
March Legislative Agenda as resolutions.
Preview of Extended School Year (ESY)
An overview of the Extended School Year (ESY) Programs for students with special needs
was presented to the Board. This summer, twenty four RTM students will receive tutoring
services, sixty four RTM students will participate in classroom settings within the District,
and forty six out-of-district students will attend programs in eighteen different facilities in the
surrounding area. In nine out of the eighteen out-of-district programs, the costs reflect very
small increases over last year or remained the same. Numerous ESY contracts arrive
during this time of the year. There was a discussion about the process used last year to
ensure that all contracts were approved in a timely fashion. It was decided that ESY
contracts will be submitted for approval at Legislative meetings as they are received. The
Board will be notified, prior to the Legislative meeting, of any ESY contracts pending
Rose Tree Media School District
308 North Olive Street
Media, Pennsylvania 19063-2493
Telephone 610.627.6000
Fax 610.891.0959
www.rtmsd.org
James M. Wigo, Sr.
Superintendent of Schools
To:
From:
Date:
Subject:
Patti Linden
Director of Technology
and Information Science
Members of the Board of School Directors
James, M. Wigo, Sr., Superintendent
Patti Linden
March 14, 2012
Technology Committee Meeting Minutes for March 13, 2012
Chairperson: Mr. Christopher Guilday
Board Members in attendance: Pete Barry, Nancy Fronduti, John Hanna, Nancy
Mackrides, Elizabeth Schneider, Bill Montgomery, Linda Fox
Also in attendance: Jim Wigo, Patti Linden, Steve Taylor, Kim McCann-Roller, Mack
Johnson, Ron Harris, Angela Gilbert, Anne Callahan, Grace Eves, several members of
the community
The goal of Enhancing Teaching and Learning in the Technology Report of the district
Strategic Plan has two strategies that we are addressing: 1.) Optimize Access to
Technology by increasing the student to computer ratio and negotiating leasing options,
and 2.) Reduce Power and Print Costs by expanding the use of online options and
reducing desktop print services. To address this goal, we are investigating the costs for
a one-to-one solution at Penncrest High School for the 2012-2013 school year using
iPads for all students. Dr. Steve Taylor presented the instructional goals and Patti
Linden and Jim Wigo presented other aspects of this solution. The iPad offers an
“instant on” feature that will eliminate lost classroom minutes from logon times on
laptops. It offers every student readiness for assistive technology in the form of visual
adjustments and language changes for ESL students. This solution will also involve
efficiencies in overall cost savings for technology equipment in the classrooms.
Additional information on leasing and costs will follow at future meetings.
Next meeting: Tuesday, April 10, 2012, at 6:30 p.m. in the Education Center Board
Room
approval. The details of each will also be provided in advance for a full review by Board
members.
Recommended Textbooks and Online Subscription Renewals for 2012-2013
Recommended textbooks and online subscription renewals for 2012-2013 were presented
to the Board, with a request that they appear on the March Legislative Agenda for approval.
The Board approves all instructional materials, as per Policy #108. The online subscription
renewals are contracts which must be approved by the Board. Permission was granted by
the Board to allow these recommendations to appear on the March Legislative Agenda,
with the caveat that the actual purchases are pending final approval of the budget.
Preview of the 2012-2013 District Calendar
The Board took a first look at a draft calendar for 2012-2013. Because the number of
teacher days is a matter of ongoing negotiations, the draft contains only the first and last
days for teachers and students, along with major holidays. It will appear on the March
Legislative Agenda for a first reading.
EXCELLENCE
TODAY
FOR TOMORROW
SCHOOL REPORT’S – March 22, 2012
GLENWOOD ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Kindergarten
The kindergarten students celebrated Dr. Seuss’ birthday along with Read Across
America Day. We celebrated with a pajama party and we shared our favorite books with
our classmates. Then, we listened to some Springton Lake students read to us and lead
us in a reading pledge. We also practiced our rhyming words as we read Hop on Pop
and sorted and made patterns with our colored goldfish after reading One Fish, Two Fish
Red Fish Blue Fish. We also used our five senses to guess what was in our green eggs
after reading Green Eggs and Ham. Much to our surprise our green eggs were filled with
Skittles. We sorted and graphed our Skittles according to color. Then we used our sense
of taste as we ate our special treat! Finally we created a class graph of our favorite Dr.
Seuss books.
First Grade
The first graders were busy learning facts about the life of Dr. Seuss. The students
celebrated Read Across America Day by having a Dr. Seuss/ reading slumber party. The
children wore their pajamas to school, brought in blankets to lay on, brought their favorite
stuffed animals to school, and their favorite Dr. Seuss story (which was shared with
reading partners during reading workshop). The children did many fun activities
throughout the day, such as…Watching a Dr. Seuss video…listening for silly rhymes and
sharing them with the class, having a story read by the Springton Lake students, had a
snack of milk and cookies, and the first graders traveled to each first grade teacher to
hear a different Dr. Seuss story followed by a fun “hands on” reading activity.
Second Grade
Second graders are learning what it takes to become members of The Giraffe Club.
Through a series of REACH lessons, the students are learning the characteristics of
leaders. Leaders are people who notice problems around them and try to solve them
even if others say they can’t. The students have studied Caesar Chavez, Susan B
Anthony, Harriet Tubman, and many others.
Third Grade
Third Graders are busy collecting clues, looking for suspects, and solving crimes as they
read mysteries during Reading Workshop. The students are in book clubs of 3-4 students
School Reports
1
March 22, 2012
reading the same mystery and working together to complete their Detective Case Files.
Students are using their detective dictionaries, suspect lists, detective notes, detective
case reports, and timelines to assist them in solving the mysteries with The Hardy Boys,
The Boxcar Children, Nancy Drew, and our friends from A to Z Mysteries.
Fourth Grade
Fourth Grade integrated the reading workshop with the writing workshop by writing
essays about their areas of interest. The students have been learning reading strategies
for nonfiction texts in the Navigating Non-fiction unit. They read several books in an area
of interest to them, and became an expert on the topic. They also have been learning
about strategies to use for writing essays. They combined these strategies with their
reading strategies and made informational and creative essays.
Fifth Grade
Fifth grade celebrated the end of their informational writing unit with a publishing parting.
The students enjoyed writing and sharing their informational pieces with each other. In
Reading the students have continued to work in their historical fiction book clubs.
Reading as a part of a club has created many life-long reading skills and literature
conversations. In Science we have started our earthquake unit with an exciting
experiment about the different waves experienced during an earthquake. In Social
Studies we embarked on an adventure back in time to examine what life was like in
historical Williamsburg.
To celebrate Read Across America Day on Dr. Seuss’ birthday, students from Springton
Lake visited the elementary schools to read to students in grades K-2. Former
GLENWOOD students Katie Phillips and Eliza Zimmerman returned to their elementary
school to share books with Mrs. Lutz’s second grade during their library time. Katie and
Eliza also led the students in The Read Across America “Reader’s Oath”—“I promise to
read each day and each night. I know it’s the key to growing up right.” The second
graders enjoyed the special guest readers and the books they read aloud to them.
Physical Education
The fifth grade students were thrilled to welcome two special guest speakers from
IceWorks in Aston. They enjoyed a marvelous presentation on the sport of Curling given
by Kevin and Cody, interns from the University of Delaware and Neumann University
respectively. Their objective was to reach out to elementary school children to introduce
them to the sport in the hopes that they might take an interest either as future participants
or as spectators at the Curling Nationals hosted by IceWorks. The students loved the
presentation as it was interactive. They got an opportunity to play a modified version of
the game, using curling stones on wheels. Kevin and Cody were very personable,
making the experience both informative and fun for the students. The next time the
Winter Olympics roll around, perhaps they will have an opportunity to show off a bit by
explaining some of the rules to their family members.
AGP
Mr. G’s first grade enrichment classes will be brainstorming ideas about how to build an
invention to keep Humpty Dumpty on the wall through blogging on VoiceThread. They
will then design, build and test an invention to keep him on the wall. Mr. G’s second
School Reports
2
March 22, 2012
grade enrichment classes will be designing and building houses to hold little pigs while
keeping the big bad wolf out and withstanding huffing and puffing.
INDIAN LANE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Another successful marking period down and Indian Lane is gearing up for a magnificent
spring and the ever-anticipated PSSA testing period. Preparations are underway to
encourage our students to “Do Your Best, On the Test”. Mr. Bennett spoke to our
students at our Pride Assembly about the importance of being prepared and to put their
best effort into this test taking period. He encouraged them to get a good night’s sleep
and eat a nourishing breakfast on each day of the test. The Indian Lane Student Council
has challenged the staff to a Student vs. Staff floor hockey game on March 16 as a
“stress buster” for students and staff to end the PSSA week.
Our PTG sponsored a Movie Night for our families. This fun and relaxing event happens
twice a year. Our movie was selected, by student popular vote, and was a featured
Disney selection. Popcorn and snacks were available for those who attended and a good
time was had by all.
Our Parent/Teacher conferences and our Kindergarten registration for next year were
held. A preliminary count for Kindergarten is currently at 57 with the majority of the
parents requesting morning placement.
Kindergarten
Kindergarten students at ILES celebrated Dr. Seuss Day this month! They wore
their pajamas to school, shared Dr. Seuss books, and made rhyming hats! They graphed
and wrote about their favorite Dr. Seuss book as well. Students also enjoyed a trip to the
Granite Run movie theater to see The Lorax!
First Grade
This month we began looking at different “text features” that readers find in a non-fiction
book. Some types of text features we looked at are: glossary, headings, bold print,
index, bullets, etc. We talked about where to find each of these text features as well as
how they can help us as we read. Learning to navigate a non-fiction is a huge life skill
that our students will build on each year. Did you know that over 85% of the reading we
do as an adult is non-fiction? We began a math unit on measurement. We focused on
using non-standard unit of measurement (ie, paperclips, blocks, our feet). We read, “How
Big is a Foot?” and talked about the queen’s bed in the book. We also introduced using
the ruler as a standard tool for measuring. The students are also learning about
repeating patterns. They are breaking cube trains into repeating units and they are
extending patterns. We spent our writing time this month continuing to work on our How
To nonfiction pieces. We looked at samples of How To books and How To articles online.
Students did a really good job coming up with topics to write about. It is a different kind of
writing but again an important kind! We are reading about famous women in history. We
have covered Wilma Rudolf, Helen Keller and Betsy Ross so far. We traveled to see the
Theater Works production of Nate the Great. We read several of the books to prepare the
students for this experience.
School Reports
3
March 22, 2012
Second Grade
In both Reading and Writing Workshops, we are in either our fairytale unit or nonfiction
unit. (In order to share our resources, two classes are studying each genre at a time. We
then switch so that all children will receive instruction on both genres.) We are learning to
identify the literary elements found in fairytales and to distinguish fairytales from other
genres. In nonfiction, we are identifying its characteristics, and are practicing the skills
and strategies which allow us to read nonfiction with more success. Once we have
developed our understanding of fairytales or nonfiction, we will begin to write our own.
Most recently in Word Study, we identified, read, and spelled contractions, nouns, and
pronouns. We are now focusing on reading and spelling –le schwa words. What is a
schwa sound? The schwa sound is very similar the short /u/sound, but it is softer or
weaker. The schwa phonics sound is the /uh/ sound of a vowel in an unstressed syllable.
In Math, we are focusing on place value. We are also regrouping in addition, first with
rods and units, then with the algorithm. In Science, we have recently completed our
Solids and Liquids unit. The children experimented with such concepts as viscosity and
conservation. In Social Studies, we learned about such famous African-Americans as
Ruby Bridges and Harriet Tubman.
Mr. John Hanna came in to read to Mrs.
Ford’s second grade class. He read Dr.
Seuss’ Wacky Wednesday book and made it
very interactive and fun for the class. They
had to pick out various wacky things in the
book and the students were thrilled with his
presentation. Thank you Mr. Hanna!
Third Grade
Third grade spent most of the month of February studying famous black Americans. The
class was divided into groups and each group became an expert about a famous person.
They researched important facts about the person as well as why they left a mark in
history. Then, they wrote a group diamante poem. The group presented all of their
information to the class including the poem. Third grade has been working hard learning
their multiplication tables. We have been finding fun ways to master them by rotating
through centers such as memory matching, mystery pictures, factor toss, and flashcard
drill. They are proud of their accomplishments. During writing workshop, third grade is
working on their first fiction piece. We began by creating a creature. They gave the
creature both internal and external character traits. Now, we are working on taking this
creature on an adventure. The story must include dialogue, a feeling, and words that
cause the reader to visualize what is happening in the story.
Fourth Grade
Fourth grade students had Healthy Heart day. A special lesson from the Red Cross on
Basic First Aid and what are the signs of a heart attack started out our day of learning.
School Reports
4
March 22, 2012
Other activities were: added fitness, heart structure and healthy eating for the heart
lessons, writing poems using repetition with a heart theme, and concluding with healthy
snacks of yogurt, fruit, granola, and vegetables.
Fifth Grade
Indian Lane fifth-graders have begun preparing for their Science Fair to be presented
during the week during school hours. Students will present the results of weeks of
experimental research to peers and parents in afternoon sessions spread out over the
week. We are also anticipating the emergence and blooming of the tulips we planted in
late fall. They are part of an international scientific research program called Journey North
which follows the gradual appearance of spring as temperatures warm from south to
north. We are anxious to see if the remarkably mild winter will prompt an earlier
blossoming than in previous years.
AGP
Third Grade AGP: The students are working on their Alternative Energy Unit. They are
currently researching solar energy and preparing for a Q &A session with an expert in the
field who will be visiting our class from Russell Roofing, (www.russellroofing.com).
Fourth Grade AGP: The students are currently working on their Immigration Unit. They
recently interviewed relates and discussed their immigration story. We also have taken a
virtual field trip of Ellis Island. Fifth Grade AGP: The students have just finished creating
a travel brochure for one of the New 7 Wonders of the World. Now they are going to
create persuasive commercials on why we should visit their Wonder.
DELCO Band Fest
One of our students, Brendan Egan, was selected to participate in this year’s District
Wide Band Fest which was held this month.
MEDIA ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Jayne Walker Recognized
Mrs. Jayne Walker, a grade two teacher at Media Elementary School, was recently
notified that she was selected to be honored with an Excellence in Teaching Award.
Each year The Franklin Mint Credit Union selects a group of Delaware County teachers
for this prestigious award. Mrs. Walker is a thirty two year veteran in RTMSD. She holds
certification and has taught in both elementary and special education. Mrs. Walker was
nominated by her professional colleagues. She was also featured recently on
Media.Patch.Com. Congratulations to Jayne Walker- well deserved!
Data Dynamics
We recently received a copy of Data Dynamics: Aligning Teacher Teams, School, and
District Efforts, a new book by Edie L. Holcomb. Authentic notes from a Media School
teacher team meeting were referenced in a section on “using data in classrooms and
teacher teams.” The purpose was to “provide a taste of how it sounds when teachers
discuss data.”
School Reports
5
March 22, 2012
NAACP Poster Contest
Media Elementary submitted 66 entries to the annual Black History Poster Contest
sponsored by the NAACP. They are currently on display in the school atrium. Eighteen
students were recognized at the awards ceremony, held at The Unitarian Universalist
Church. Senator Pileggi was the guest speaker. Principal, Maria Kotch and teachers
Aaron Goldfarb and Cathy Poulos attended the event.
Loveland-Smith Nominated
Fifth Grade teacher, Mrs. Tina Loveland-Smith, has been nominated for Pennsylvania
Teacher of the Year. She was recognized previously as a Keystone Technology
Integrator.
Title 1 Audit
Title 1 teachers Christine Seeley and Julie Fetsch worked extremely hard to prepare for
the recent Title 1 audit. By all accounts, the auditor was impressed with our hard working
and competent staff. We are anxiously awaiting the written report.
Kindergarten Registration
The turn-out at our Kindergarten Registration was excellent. Sixty (60) new students
were registered for the 2012-2013 and we are sure that there will be more to come.
Maturation Preview
Physical education teacher Carol Shapero gave a preview of the maturation program for
fourth grade parents. The program will be delivered in single sex groups later this month.
Book Fair
Our PTG sponsors a Book Fair each year. This year’s Book Fair was a great success.
Both the selections and the level of participation were excellent.
Parent -Teacher Conferences
A highlight of our second parent-teacher conferences is that fourth graders take
responsibility for leading their own conferences. They spend time preparing and
practicing. This is presented as an option, but parents who opt for it are very impressed
with how well their children are able to describe and discuss their learning.
Happy Valentine’s Day
Media students celebrated Valentine’s Day with small parties and class celebrations.
Parents have been very conscientious about honoring Wellness Policy guidelines with
respect to classroom celebrations.
Pajama Day and PSSA Prep Rally
Every year Media School kicks back and has a little fun right before PSSA testing begins.
The entire school has a Pajama Day, the message being that it good to relax a bit before
PSSA begins. The Prep Rally featured student performers this year. Zayid Buckley-Bolds
tap danced, Dorothy Li performed an interpretative Chinese Dance, and Sarah and
Elizabeth Hughes and Bailey Haraburda Irish danced. AGP teacher Denny Smyth found
a you-tube video that was a real hit. Shakira’s “WAKA” was adapted with Media-specific
School Reports
6
March 22, 2012
PSSA lyrics. WAKAK means “try your hardest, never give up, and do your best.” It is our
new PSSA motto.
First Grade Fun
First grade teachers at Media co-taught lessons on the Read Across America Express.
Students rotated to different classrooms and enjoyed a range of learning activities geared
toward a variety of learning styles. At one stop on the reading express, students created
Tic-Tac-Toe, Green Eggs in a Row game boards. Problem solving strategies were
incorporated to play the game with opponents. On the next stop, Cat in the Hat Glyphs
created by students required active listening and direction following. Glyphs had different
appearances based on individuals’ characteristics and preferences. Students learned a
lot about their classmates upon sharing. A lesson in opposites and antonyms occurred
on the next stop following a reading of The Foot Book. Finally students reached the last
stop learning an important lesson of respecting diversity with The Sneetches. Personal
stars that demonstrated students’ individuality were created and displayed in celebration
and respect of diversity. A successful trip was had by all on the First Grade Reading
Express.
Second Grade Update
Second grade participated in another wonderful field trip to Tyler Arboretum. The theme
of this trip was “Animals in Winter.” The children learned that animals will migrate, adapt
or die during the winter months. During our trip, the students looked for signs of animals
which remain in our area for the winter months. The children also learned how trees
survive the winter, a good time for tapping trees in order to collect sweet sap and how to
identify various types of tree bark. We have been extremely pleased with our experiences
at Tyler Arboretum. Working on an assembly line was, once again, one of the highlights
of our second grade economics unit. This year, our “hot dog assembly line” ran efficiently.
Each individual assembly line worker performed his/her job to their best ability; yes we did
have problems with that milk! Our quality control managers did not have to return any
lunches to the line and all students enjoyed a hot and pleasant lunch. We are pleased
with our group of hard-working WCU students. They are helpful and eager to learn. The
WCU students are enjoying the opportunity to work with the children and the students are
receiving the benefit of more individualized of attention.
Street Smarts
Health educator, Lauren Amway, gave a presentation to our primary grade students on
bike and street safety. Our PTG is planning a Bike Rally in May, so this program was the
perfect introduction. Ms. Amway’s “Street Smart” presentation is posted on our web site.
Read Across America Day
Media always enjoys the celebration of “Read Across America Day.” This year we
welcomed guest readers from Springton Lake Middle School. Primary grades did many
Dr. Seuss activities (Read Across America is usually on Dr. Seuss’/Theodore Geisell’s
birthday). Classrooms planned special activities. For example, third grade teacher Sue
Williamson invited parents in for “Bagels and Books.”
Traditions of India
Our annual theme is “What a wonderful world…What a wonderful school.” We are
learning about other cultures. We welcomed “Ramya Ramnarayan…Traditions of India.”
School Reports
7
March 22, 2012
Indian dance combines movement, mime and music in equal measure. It originated in
Hindu temples more than 2000 years ago. The program included audience participation
and dancers adorned with beautiful costumes, jewelry, and make-up. It was magical.
ROSE TREE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Rose Tree is on a roll! Lily Henry, one of our fifth grade students has been named the
Grand Prize Winner in the Pennsylvania Race to Literacy sponsored by Achieve 3000,
better known as Kid Biz. Lily received an iPod Shuffle and an iTunes gift card. Her class
has been awarded a $250 Amazon gift card. We also had three winners in the recent
county-wide black history poster contest. First place went to Sophia Welch, second prize
to Michael Gobran and third place was awarded to Shannon Tonetta. Congratulations to
all of our Husky winners!
Academically Gifted Program
Mr. G’s first grade enrichment classes will be brainstorming ideas about how to build an
invention to keep Humpty Dumpty on the wall through blogging on VoiceThread. They
will then design, build and test an invention to keep him on the wall. Mr. G’s second
grade enrichment classes have been designing and building houses to hold little pigs
while keeping the big bad wolf out and withstanding huffing and puffing.
Reading
March was a great month for reading! We celebrated Read Across America Day with
guest readers from Springton Lake to honor the birthday of Dr. Seuss. Students in first
grade worked hard on their decoding strategies and sight words. Second graders read
non-fiction texts and learned to write informational reports. In grades three through five,
students put their comprehension strategies to use and refined their written responses to
text.
First Grade
First grade has created their own version of March Madness, timed addition and
subtraction tests! We are graphing our results and looking to beat our personal best! It
has been exciting to see our growth. We completed our small moments unit in Writer's
Workshop and had a class celebration, sharing our stories and enjoying being published
authors.
Third Grade
In the month of March, the third grade team embarked upon a science unit about the
Human Body and How to Stay Healthy. Students created a Human Body Book and
studied the different organs and systems of the body and their functions. They also
learned how germs and disease affect the body. The culminating activity was a field trip
to Lankenau Hospital where they saw a presentation that included a life-sized transparent
model of the human body named Pandora.
Fifth Grade
The Rose Tree fifth graders have been studying the characteristics of volcanoes in our
Catastrophic Events unit this month. We started by diagramming the layers of the earth to
determine how volcanoes formed. We have also compared and contrasted the
School Reports
8
March 22, 2012
characteristics of stratovolcanoes, cinder cones, and shield volcanoes. Ms. Judy Michel,
an adult education teacher from Widener University, was invited to each of our
classrooms to present her expertise on the subject. Ms. Michel has traveled extensively to
various volcanic sites and has studied with renowned volcanologists. Ms. Michel
presented a power point presentation of volcanic activity around the world to our fifth
graders. She also brought in many samples of volcanic rock for the students to handle.
The students were able to ask questions and experience the study in a more personal
manner.
SPRINGTON LAKE MIDDLE SCHOOL
The following Students of the Month were honored at the March 15 PTG meeting:
February students were Anna Biordi and Maxwell Rowley and March students were
Conor Barr and Olivia Falcone.
Art
Mrs. Going's Eighth Grades continue their study of Medieval and Renaissance art. A very
generous SLMS parent gave us Guinea Fowl feathers so the students were able to
experience writing with a make shift feather quill like the Monks during Middle ages. Quite
exciting! The ceramic sculptures continue and students are experiencing the difficulty first
hand of proportioning the figure. Michelangelo made it seem so do-a-ble!! Seventh
grades are in the process of completing their ceramic units. They are now challenged with
the final writing piece explaining what has made their sculpture successful! Sixth grades
continue to prove to the views how the artist creates depth and distance using color and
water color wash technique for the landscape portion of their Chinese Zodiac painting.
Printing of the character letters in Chinese will begin soon. After having looked at art
work including sculpture from Medieval and Renaissance time periods, Ms. Sycz's grade
eight students have begun sculpting their clay human figures. Observing the difference
between work two dimensionally and three dimensionally, students are relying upon
problem solving skills and past experience using clay material. Grade seven students
have begun their sculpture unit by understanding their need to prepare their ideas for their
sculpture first. Students have read an introduction to hats and any other head coverings
that have been used by individuals and societies. Students have viewed samples of these
hats and head coverings noting the variety. Students have begun now to problem solve
as they are now creating out of clay a simple human form from the head to the shoulders
to showcase their hat that also will be made out of clay. Grade seven students are also
composing an abstract drawing showcasing balance, pattern and variety. Students at the
same time are exploring how working slowly and thoughtfully can be seen in the final
outcome. Grade six students have completed their miniature animal painting and print. In
preparation of the six grade clay unit, student have begun making drawings using simple
shapes and will compare these simple shapes to the form that they are about to sculpt.
Mrs. Prior's sixth grade students have read about subject, theme, and style and
completed a comparison and contrast activity to learn about various styles such as
Realism, Expressionism, Abstract, and Fantasy. In preparation for their own paintings,
students are planning their compositions by choosing a suitable subject, theme, and style.
Seventh grade students are drawing and shading mechanical objects to create still life
drawings in pencil. The sketches of Leonardo da Vinci’s inventions highlighted in The
School Reports
9
March 22, 2012
Museum of Science in Boston were used as inspiration. Renaissance artist,
Michelangelo, was the featured artist shown to eighth grade students to kick off their clay
unit. Students have sketched various characters of their own creation in preparation for
their sculptures. They have begun their sculptures, and their knowledge of the vocabulary
and techniques has been impressive!
Guidance
The guidance department has completed eighth to ninth grade course selection and all
course cards have been returned to the high school. Eighteen students were selected for
the second marking period guidance awards. These awards are given to students who
exhibit academic effort, respect, and strong classroom citizenship. Students were given a
certificate and five dollar coupon for use at the school store. The guidance counselors
have been giving tours and informational sessions to prospective new students and
parents. The peer tutoring club had thirty-four participants during the second marking
period. During REP, those students who need help in a particular subject are paired with
a student tutor. The fifth annual DVD-A-Thon took place on Friday, March 2. Eighteen
student teams and two faculty teams participated in the round-robin dodge ball- volleyball
tournament. The event raised $1,500.00 which will go to organizations who support
families dealing with cancer.
Language Arts
Preparation for PSSA testing was a major focus in many of Springton Lake’s language
arts classes as March started. Through the use of games, mini-lessons, and activities,
students reviewed terms and practiced important tested skills. What are the differences
between personal essays and research articles? How about between biographies and
autobiographies? Editorials and advertisements? Sixth grade students in Carin
Newsome’s classes can tell you! During the months of February and March, students
studied various non-fiction genres, learning and analyzing their defining characteristics,
such as point of view and personal experiences, use of facts and research, and the
inclusion and effects of opinion and persuasion. As part of their study, students read
biographies of abolitionist and civil rights activist Frederick Douglass and JapaneseAmerican violinist Midori; as well as excerpts from autobiographies and memoirs of
authors Eloise Greenfield and Gary Soto, and a student favorite, Helen Keller. The boys
and girls read several opposing editorials about school cafeterias and evaluated the
authors’ techniques and effectiveness. “The Winter that Wasn’t” was the topic of both
current feature and news articles read by and analyzed by the students. As a culminating
activity, boys and girls chose a non-fiction text to read independently and then created an
informational report to share their knowledge.
Seventh graders in Mrs. Williams' classes are learning about propaganda and the
different techniques advertisers use to persuade people to buy their products. Students
researched the various types of propaganda and found examples of commercials that
supported their research. Students were also required to write a script using stage
directions for a commercial of their own for an assigned form of propaganda. They
were then given video cameras to record their commercials. Finally, they played their
commercials in class and defended why it was an example of their assigned form of
propaganda. Mr. Harp's seventh classes finished a unit on propaganda, PSSA test
strategies, and the novels Hatchet and The Call of the Wild. Students will begin a reading
that is interdisciplinary with social studies. The novel Soldiers Heart is aligned with the
School Reports
10
March 22, 2012
Civil War unit in social studies. In eighth grade language arts, Jerry Diaz has been
working with students of all levels on an in-depth study of two of Shakespeare’s plays,
King Lear and Henry V. The students have been reading and enacting scenes of the
play, narrating the action and connecting scenes and plot events with the larger issues
addressed in each play. Students of all ability levels have been enjoying acting out the
plays, and have come to understand that Shakespeare’s plays address common human
emotions and issues that are still very relevant today. Also in eighth grade language arts,
Renee DiPietro has been reading The Contender with her students, and has used this
novel as a bridge into a brief study into several orbital topics, which included the Civil
Rights movement and poetry, which tied into the novel through the Civil Rights
connection. The students related these topics back into the novel, as well did a brief
investigative research activity into the history, training methods, and famous names and
places (focusing on Philadelphia) related to boxing. At the conclusion of this unit, the
students took an assessment that tied directly into the PSSA and assessment anchors
that the test will be addressing in a couple of days.
Library
Many of the Eighth Grade Social Studies classes have begun their research project on
Ancient Rome. To help focus and guide their research, students have been using the
Ancient Rome LibGuide created by Mrs. Brashers. The LibGuide is a website that
includes databases, websites, book titles, videos, and more to help guide the students
through the research process. The LibGuides are being introduced now in the middle
school so that the students may be prepared to use them at the high school and when
they move on to college level research.
The library computers, including the laptop cart, have been in constant use by classes of
all grade levels and subjects. Mr. Krugler’s, Miss Morris’, and Mrs. McCarthy’s Social
Studies classes have been visiting the library on a daily basis to work on their research
project on Ancient Rome. Mr. Henderson and Mrs. Heckman also continue to bring their
classes to use the library computers and resources.
During REP, Mrs. Brashers continues to host a Read-Aloud period during which she
reads to sixth grade students who requested to attend the event. The students visit the
library daily to listen to Neil Gaiman’s The Graveyard Book, winner of the 2009 ALA John
Newbery Medal. The sixth grade students who have been attending the Read-Aloud
were reluctant readers; however, in the past few weeks, the students have been
volunteering to read aloud for the whole group! Each day, a student reads from The
Graveyard Book for the rest of the group. Students have been taking turns in
volunteering on which days to read. Mrs. Brashers has also been reading to Mrs.
Hemenway’s students in her life skills class on a weekly basis. The students selected to
be read Jeanne DuPrau’s The City of Ember, an ALA Notable Book.
Math
In Eighth Grade Geometry we will begin Chapter 8 in early March. Students will find
angle measures in polygons. They will investigate properties of parallelograms and learn
what information they can use to conclude that a quadrilateral is a parallelogram.
Students will also study special quadrilaterals such as rhombuses, rectangles, squares,
trapezoids, and kites. We continue to review for the PSSA. The students are review
numbers and operations, measurement, algebraic concepts, and data analysis and
School Reports
11
March 22, 2012
probability. Both our eighth grade Algebra I students and CMP2 students are working on
rules for exponents. They practiced applying rules such as same-base products and
quotients, exponents to exponents, and products to an exponent. Scientific notation was
introduced –a shortened way of writing very large and very small numbers. We’ve also
been finishing up on our preparation for PSSA—standardized tests that take place during
the next two weeks. Our next unit involves the introduction and study of quadratic
relationships—chapter 9 in Algebra I and Frogs, Fleas, and Painted Cubes.
The seventh grade math students have finished the “Comparing and Scaling” unit of the
Connected Math Program. During this unit, the students learned how to calculate
proportions and ratios. The students completed a group unit project that required them to
choose two similar companies or products and survey their classmates on their
preferences. Then, the students analyzed their data to create ratios, differences, and
fractions that displayed their results. The third step of their project was to create a
commercial to advertise one of the products. The students were able to merge the skills
we learned in the classroom with exciting information and results. The project enabled
students to collaborate with one another and to be creative. After the PSSA testing, the
seventh grade students will be studying the “Accentuate the Negative” unit of the
Connected Math Program. This unit focuses on the integers and the relationship between
positive and negative numbers. Students will be making connections between the
activities being completed in the classroom and how we use positive and negative
numbers in the real world (temperature, game scores, sports, etc.). As a project for the
Bits And Pieces/Fractions Unit, sixth grade math students surveyed their classmates on
preferences for two similar products (Ex: Florida’s Natural vs. Tropicana Orange Juice,
Home Depot vs. Lowes, Kellogg’s Raisin Bran vs. Post Raisin Bran, Gap vs. Old Navy,
etc.). Students created a poster complete with a catchy slogan, advertising the most
popular product that would best convince or persuade merchants to place the ad on
television. The results of the survey were used to write four comparison statements: one
statement using differences, one statement using a ratio, one statement using a fraction,
and one statement using a percentage. Advertisements were created using computer
images and/or hand drawn illustrations. The sixth graders used a rubric/checklist on this
project for self assessment purposes. Students presented posters to the class as a
culminating activity. The students’ work was hung on the classroom walls and displayed
in the hallway.
Music
Sixth grade general music classes continue “hands on” experiences as they study
musical instruments such as the drum set and guitar. Students in seventh and eighth
grade general music combined computer skills with musical downloads, MP3 players, and
iPods to present projects concerning “Songs That Communicate.” They also continued
their study of the Classical Period with the works of Franz Joseph Haydn. This year’s
Elementary Band Fest was hosted at Radnor Middle School. Sixth graders Tyler
Chabitnoy, Matt Dougherty, Bryn Kolmansberger, Patrick Lawrence, Dora McCafferty,
Erica Westcott, and Alexander Wynn represented Springton Lake in the concert.
Physical Education
At the start of February, all students completed the cooperative games unit where team
work, communication and problem solving were of major emphasis. Students participated
in various activities that worked on cooperation and had the opportunity to rotate and be
School Reports
12
March 22, 2012
taught be the entire physical education staff. Sixth grade classes had the opportunity to
experience a variety of activities including a weight room and hockey and activities. In the
weight room the students continued to learn about the different machines that were
available for them to use. In addition, they were given instructions on safe weight training
practices and how simple weight training exercises at their ages can be beneficial. In
hockey, students were instructed on proper stick handling techniques and safety
instruction. In addition, basic strategic components using the space provided were
introduced to the students. In the second half of February, half of the students were
exposed to climbing and the other half worked on hockey and weight room activities.
Sixth grade students were exposed to the adventure climbing for the first time, learning
how to do prussik climbing, a way of using ropes with a harness that involves a process of
knot tying and a movement that resembles “inch worming” their way up.
The seventh and eighth grade students worked on adventure education, with the
emphasis on “challenge by choice.” In these activities, students learned the values of
teamwork and self-challenge. Seventh and eighth grade classes work on team building
while learning how to do the skill of belaying which is a three person way of supporting a
climber. Great responsibility was given to the students as they were taught how to belay,
a technique that involves a team of at least three people, supporting a climber as they
climb the rock wall or any of the other climbing elements that the school has. Many of
the students who have had a fear of heights have been able to succeed as they were able
to go at their own pace up the wall or the climbing ropes. As classes rotated out of the
climbing unit, they participated in hockey, learning basic rules as well as strategy using
the spaces provided as well as did weight training in the weight room. We were excited to
see how seventh and eighth grade students who were proficient in belaying volunteered
during their lunch time to help with belaying sixth graders.
Science
The sixth grade continues their study of DNA and genetics. Students are reading articles
about genetics and using the UNRAAVEL strategy to help prepare students for the
upcoming LA PSSAs. Students are using the textbook to investigate genetic disorders
and are using Punnett squares to determine the probability of sex-linked traits being
passed to offspring. The seventh grade science program changes gears from electrical
investigations to the universal laws that dictate forces and energy. The forces are
introduced when the teachers perform several spectacular demonstrations including
student participation. Once a basic understand of forces and motion is established, vector
diagrams are used to represent direction and magnitude of forces working in cooperation
or opposition. In eighth grade, we continue to prepare for the PSSA Science exam which
will be on April 5th. Specifically, we have focused on reviewing content on environmental
science. In addition, students have been working on the processes of balancing
equations as necessitated by the law of conservation of matter, as well as learning the
different types of equations that are found in chemistry. Finally, we have begun learning
about acids and bases, how they are found in nature, and the unique properties of water
as it relates to these substances.
Social Studies
Sixth grade students have studied the colonization of Africa by the European powers.
Students have compared the current map of Africa created by the Europeans to the tribal
map of Africa. Countries such as Nigeria and Rwanda are used as examples of the
School Reports
13
March 22, 2012
modern consequences resulting from the mistreatment of the African people during the
colonial period. In addition, some students have studied and created graphs for the
Human Development Index to compare the well-being of people in African countries to
those in the U.S. Seventh grade students have examined the causes of the Civil War.
The students will view a Prezi presentation about the causes and then be responsible for
using the Prezi software for their own presentations. Eighth grade students learned about
the Roman Empire by examining images of 2,000 year old coins from the imperial period.
Students conducted research in the library and analyzed their coins for elements of state
issued propaganda. Students gave oral presentations on their topic to their peers. Enoch
Stevenson (Latin Teacher at PHS) was a guest speaker on the topic and brought over
30 coins (artifacts and replicas) for students to examine in-person. Mr. Stevenson gave
the students a chance to share their knowledge on the subject, and he taught them even
more by drawing on the Latin phrases commonly found on the coins.
World Language
The SLMS French classes cerebrated Mardi Gras with chocolate fondue and French club
celebrated Chandeleur which is a holiday when French families make crepes for dinner.
PENNCREST HIGH SCHOOL
Teacher of the Year
Faculty member DeAnn Scherer has been named as Penncrest’s Teacher of the Year.
Mrs. Scherer, a veteran teacher in our mathematics department, was selected for this
honor by the staff of PHS. Mrs. Scherer will now represent Penncrest in the Pennsylvania
State Teacher of the Year program.
Boys’ Indoor Track
Congratulations to our boys’ indoor track 4x800 relay team for capturing the silver medal
at states with a time of seven minutes, 55 seconds. The team of Patrick Miller, Ali
Dastagirzada, Zack Kline, and Nathan Emanuel is coached by faculty member George
Munro.
Hi-Q News
The Penncrest Hi-Q team took second place at the 2012 Hi-Q championship match held
at Penncrest in March. Congratulations to the team and coach Michael Ludwig for
another outstanding season!
National Honor Society News
The National Honor Society would like to thank PHS staff, students, and community
members for their support of the annual American Red Cross blood drive at Penncrest.
Over 275 blood donations were made during the one-day event. The Red Cross
commended our NHS volunteers for organizing and running one of the best student
drives in the area.
Prom Dress Collection
Penncrest High School senior Haley Altus, under the guidance of Mrs. Jessica Anderson,
orchestrated the collection of 88 prom dresses to donate to the Philadelphia Police
Athletic League. The dresses will be given to students in the Philadelphia area who are
School Reports
14
March 22, 2012
unable to afford the purchase of a gown for prom. Gino Benedetti, RTMSD resident and
PAL supporter expressed, "what a blessing Penncrest, you, and the girls who did this are
to our PAL kids. Thanks!"
PSSA’s
During the month of March, 342 Penncrest juniors participated in the PSSA's for Math
and Reading. Testing for Science and Writing will be administered in April.
Science Department News
Penncrest Science Olympiad Team placed second at the Regional Championship
Tournament held at Cabrini College in March. Five gold, three silver, and four bronze
medals were earned by the team. The team thanks Mr. Wigo and Mr. Gregg for their
support and attendance at this year’s award ceremony. The Science Olympiad team now
advances to the State Championship Tournament in April at Juniata College.
English Department News
Senior Samantha Dugan recently represented Penncrest High School at the 2012 Poetry
Out Loud Regional Finals held at the University of the Arts. Ms. Dugan, along with
students from sixteen other area high schools, recited in two rounds of competition hosted
by The Philadelphia Arts in Education Partnership and sponsored by the National
Endowment for the Arts. This is the second year Penncrest has participated in Poetry
Out Loud, a program designed to encourage high school students to learn about great
poetry through memorization and recitation.
Health and PE News
This month, juniors and seniors participated in a pilot program called "components of
fitness." Students rotated through classes showing how they can work on fitness for life
using cardiovascular fitness, muscular strength and endurance, flexibility, and body
composition activities.
Music Department News
Senior soprano, Cassie Brod, represented Penncrest at the Pennsylvania Music
Educator's (PMEA) Regional Choir Concert this month. Her re-audition at this prestigious
event will determine her eligibility for All-State Choir.
Choir Director Sherre Gaertner invites all members of our Board of School Directors to
attend any upcoming choir concerts. Events are posted on Penncrest’s web calendar. If
you plan to attend, please let Mrs. Gaertner know so she can recognize you at the
concert. The students will love to see you!
World Language Department News
Twenty-seven Spanish students from Spanish IV and AP Spanish V are currently in Spain
through April 4. Chaperons for the trip are Anna Wiegner, Angela Beaudry and Laura
Nemec-Osborne. The group is visiting Madrid, Valencia, Tavernes de la Valldigna, and
Barcelona.
Forty-three students are traveling with French department faculty chaperons to Montréal
and Québec City. The group returns on Sunday, March 25.
School Reports
15
March 22, 2012
This month selected students will participate in the National French Exam, National Latin
Exam, and National Spanish Exam. Results are expected in late April. Annually, RTMSD
World Language contests are administered to every World Language student, grades 612, who compete against their peers enrolled in the same language/level. The top three
students for each language/level, and honorable mentions (H/M), are invited to receive
their awards at the annual World Language Fête held in May. This year’s award winners
are as follows: 1French1: Ryan Gramlick. 2French I: 1st - Sthefany Lamegos, 2nd Brianna Davies, 3rd - Julia Fitzgerald and H/M - Mike Roberts. French 2: 1st - Kimberly
Seddon, 2nd - Melissa Roller, 3rd - Danielle Lillie and H/M - Susanna Koethe. French II:
1st - Riley George, 2nd - Antonella DeCicci, 3rd - Michael Yee and Lucy Hall, H/M - Emily
Evenden and Francesca Krivitsky and Special Category - Alison Neumann. French III:
1st - Alicia Schapire* and Kira Panzer, 2nd - Zoé LeLan and Emily Bunting*, 3rd - Sara
Fitzpatrick and Kimi Kreider and H/M -Talia Kaplan and Luca DiFranco*. French IV: 1st Ryen Radcliff, 2nd - Margaret King*, 3rd - Hope Morrison and H/M - Amanda Prokop. AP
French V: 1st - Andy Kaiden, 2nd - Kenna Bryan, 3rd - Brendan Morgan and H/M Corinne
LeLan. German II: 1st - Serena Bacheler, 2nd - Clancy Michael, 3rd - Maher Amanda and
H/M - Huebner Caitlyn. Latin I: 1st - Soham Kamat, Emily Bunting* and Abigail Pearse,
2nd - Emily Evenden, 3rd - Nina Shah and H/M - Tom Higgins and Michael Ann Henne.
Latin II: 1st - Marshall Pupo, 2nd - Dean Ward*, 3rd - Aimee Whalen and H/M -Michael
Clancy and Cheyenne Davis. Latin III: 1st - Maggie King*, 2nd - Michael DiFelice, Megan
Ardekani and Kyle Wright, and 3rd - Maddie Malone and Evan Hanna. Latin IV: 1st Brittney Johnson, 2nd - Ryan Strong and 3rd - Rebecca Duross. Mandarin I: 1st - Glori
Seufert*, 2nd - Emma Sniegowski, 2nd - Samantha Muncer, 3rd -Jade Phillip, Annie Kernen
and Nick Boleta and H/M - Craig Whitney and Mya Yee. Mandarin II: 1st - Jeany
Cheung, 2nd - Lisa Laffend, 3rd - Rebecca Nolan and H/M - Rebecca Ritter. 1 Spanish I:
Rachel Muetterties, 2 Spanish I: 1st - Evgeniya Shmygaleva, 2nd - Alyssa Schlecht, 3rd Kyle Walker and H/M - Leah Halper. Spanish 2: 1st - Connor Smalls, 2nd - Meghan
Berardinelli, 3rd - Jonathan McNally, H/M - Hannah Lombardo and Special Category Joseph Bronstein. Spanish II: 1st - Abigail Pearse, 2nd - Luca DiFranco*, 2nd - Michael
Chang, 3rd - Samuel Messer and H/M - Alicia Schapire*, Nina Shah and Charles Frindt.
Spanish III: 1st - Ethan Fein, 2nd Marshall Pupo, Dean Ward* and JoAnna Koveal, 3rd Alaina Clune and Nick Caggiano and H/M - Gabriela Faux. Spanish IV: 1st - Glori
Seufert*, 2nd - Grace Chang, Samantha Muncer and Justin Schumacher, 3rd - Jeremy
Gonzales and Danielle Wolf and H/M - Samantha Dyer. AP Spanish V: 1st - Abby Dunn,
2nd - Daniel Buttery, 3rd - Torrie Buchanan and H/M - Cole Dougherty. * Denotes a double
language winner.
School Reports
16
March 22, 2012
ROSE TREE MEDIA SCHOOL DISTRICT
PRESIDENTIAL ANNOUNCEMENTS – EXECUTIVE SESSION
“In accordance with the Pennsylvania Sunshine Act, executive sessions of the
School Board were held on the following dates to review and discuss matters
permitted under Section 8 of the Act.”
February 23, 2012
March 13, 2012
March 22, 2012
There will be an executive session of the School Board for matters of personnel
at 6:30 p.m. prior to the Legislative Session of April 26, 2012, at Penncrest High
School. The Legislative meetings are recorded on tape.
Presidential Announcement
1
March 22, 2012
IX.
New Business
A.
Personnel
1.
Terminations
a.
Professional
1.
b.
2.
Non-Instructional
1.
Alisha Moreland, Food Service Worker, termination
effective March 22, 2012.
2.
Anita Garber, .5 Secretary I, Springton Lake Middle
School, resignation effective March 16, 2012.
Nominations
a.
IX. New Business
Rebekah Grover, Elementary Teacher, Media
Elementary, resignation effective July 1, 2012.
Professional
1.
Renee DiPietro, Long Term Substitute Language Arts
Teacher effective February 29, 2012 at the annual
salary of $52,309.00, Master’s/Step 1 to be pro-rated.
Ms. DiPietro received her Bachelor’s and Master’s
Degrees from Cabrini College. She is assigned to
Springton Lake Middle School replacing John Dixon.
2.
Alicia Dougherty, Long Term Substitute Guidance
Counselor, effective February 27, 2012 at the annual
salary of $52,309.00, Master’s/Step 1 to be pro-rated.
Ms. Dougherty received her Bachelor’s Degree from
Cabrini College and her Master’s Degree from
Widener University. Ms. Dougherty is assigned to
Springton Lake Middle School replacing Margie Gilroy
who is on leave.
3.
Walter Read, Long Term Substitute Science Teacher
effective April 2, 2012 at the annual salary of
$52,309.00, Master’s/Step 1 pro-rated. Mr. Read is
assigned to Penncrest High School replacing Robert
Malkovsky who is on leave.
4.
Dorothee Diaz, Homebound Instructor for the 20112012 school year at the rate of $46.00 per hour.
1
March 22, 2012
IX.
New Business
A.
Personnel
2.
Nominations
b.
Non-Instructional
1.
Paul Stankiewicz, Substitute Bus Driver, effective
March 16, 2012 at the rate of $21.53 per hour. Mr.
Stankiewicz is assigned to the Transportation
Department.
2.
Debra Saylor-Brown, Support Staff I, Glenwood
Elementary School. Change of effective date to
February 23, 2012.
3.
Recommend Board approval for the following to serve
as Summer Maintenance Workers at the rate of
$12.00 per hour:
Theresa Allen
Joshua Bloom
Brian Cook
Dylan DeAngelis
Samantha Finsterbusch
Matthew Giardinelli
Brian Kenney
Thomas Linnen
Brett Macaulay
Marqus McKie
William McMenamin
Ronald Tyson
3.
General
a.
IX. New Business
Effective June 18, 2012
Effective May 14.2012
Effective May 14, 2012
Effective May 28, 2012
Effective May 21, 2012
Effective May 1, 2012
Effective May 28, 2012
Effective May 7, 2012
Effective May 14, 2012
Effective April 30, 2012
Effective June 18, 2012
Effective May 29, 2012
Supplemental Contracts
1.
Amanda Meltz, (.75) Boys Tennis Coach, at the
annual salary of $2,718.75. Ms. Meltz is assigned to
Penncrest High School.
2.
Andrea Rachubinski, (.25) Boys Tennis Coach, at the
annual salary of $906.25. Ms. Rachubinski is
assigned to Penncrest High School.
2
March 22, 2012
IX.
New Business
A.
Personnel
3.
General
a.
Supplemental Contracts
3.
Alison Harrison, New Teacher Mentor, effective
February 27, 2012, at the annual salary of $471.20.
Ms. Harrison is assigned to Springton Lake Middle
School.
4.
Elizabeth Coulter, (.5) New Teacher Mentor, effective
January 30, 2012, at the annual salary of $580.00.
Ms. Coulter is assigned to Media Elementary.
Ashlyn Crilly, Event Chaperone at the rate of $18.33
per hour. Ms. Crilly is assigned to Penncrest High
School.
5.
6.
b.
Salary Change
1.
c.
Jerry Diaz, New Teacher Mentor, effective February
29, 2012 at the annual salary of $437.34. Mr. Diaz is
assigned to Springton Lake Middle School.
Recommend Board approval to Increase the
Substitute Nurse rate from $100.00 per day to
$140.00 per day effective March 23, 2012.
Elimination of Position
1.
Recommend Board approval to eliminate the following
Springton Lake Middle School supplemental positions
effective March 23, 2012:
Chess Club
Chinese Club
Computer Club
Geography Club
Spanish Club
IX. New Business
3
6 Units
6 Units
6 Units
6 Units
6 Units
March 22, 2012
IX.
New Business
A.
Personnel
3.
General
d.
Create New Position
1.
Recommend Board approval to create the following
new supplemental positions at Springton Lake Middle
School effective March 23, 2012. These positions
were discussed at Personnel Committee March 12,
2012.
Stage Manager/Tech Crew
Drama/Theater Director
Musical Theater Director
Dance Club Manager
B.
10 Units
17 Units
26 Units
8 Units
Overnight Trips
1.
Springton Lake Science Olympiad – Juniata College, Huntingdon,
PA
Resolve, that the Board approve the overnight trip for the Springton
Lake Middle School Science Olympiad to Juniata College,
Huntingdon, PA 4/26/12 – 4/27/12.
Background
The Springton Lake Science Olympiad will compete in the
competition at Juniata College. The approximate cost to the district
is $2,421, which covers substitute teacher fees, transportation and
hotel/meals.
2.
Penncrest Science Olympiad – Juniata College, Huntingdon, PA
Resolve, that the Board approve the overnight trip for the Penncrest
Science Olympiad to Juniata College, Huntingdon, PA 4/26/12 –
4/28/12.
Background
The Penncrest Science Olympiad will compete in the state
competition at Juniata College. The approximate cost to the district
is $4,544, which covers substitute teacher fees, transportation and
hotel.
IX. New Business
4
March 22, 2012
IX.
New Business
B.
Overnight Trips (continued)
3.
Penncrest Men’s Outdoor Leadership Club – Phoenicia, NY
Resolve, that the Board approve the overnight trip for the Penncrest
Men’s Outdoor Leadership Club to Phoenicia, NY, 5/4/12 – 5/6/12.
Background
The Penncrest Men’s Outdoor Leadership Club will take a camping
trip to Phoenicia, NY (Catskills). The approximate cost to the
district is $480, which covers transportation fees.
4.
Penncrest Women’s Outdoor Leadership Club – Shawankunks, NY
Resolve, that the Board approve the overnight trip for the Penncrest
Women’s Outdoor Leadership Club to The Shawangunks, NY,
5/4/12 – 5/6/12.
Background
The Penncrest Women’s Outdoor Leadership Club will visit The
Shawangunks, NY. There is no cost to the district for this trip.
C.
2012-2013 School Year Calendar – Draft
Resolve, the Board review the 2012-2013 School Year Calendar.
See Attachment A.
D.
Expulsion of Student #60394
Resolve, that, pursuant to the waiver of the Due Process Hearing
signed by students’ parents, student #60394 shall be placed at
Buxmont Academy for the duration of the 2011-2012 school year.
IX. New Business
5
March 22, 2012
ADDENDUM
IX.
New Business
E.
Addendum – Personnel
1.
Terminations
a.
Professional
1.
Stephen Chicano
Be It Resolved, that the Report Containing
Findings of Fact, Discussion, Conclusions of
Law and Recommendation issued by the
Committee of the Board of School Directors of
the Rose Tree Media School District pertaining
to the Level 3 grievance filed by grievant,
Stephen Chicano, is hereby accepted and
adopted and said grievance is denied.
Be It Further Resolved, that Stephen Chicano
is removed and dismissed from his
employment with Rose Tree Media School
District, effective immediately.
2.
Resignations
a.
Professional
1.
Michael LoBiondo
Resolve, the Board approve the resignation of
Michael LoBiondo, English teacher, effective
March 22, 2012.
IX. New Business – Addendum
1
March 22, 2012
X.
Finance
A.
Purchasing
1.
Bid Awards
Recommend the following bids be awarded in the categories
listed, such recommendation being the lowest bid received
from a responsible bidder, kind, quality and materials having
been considered.
1.
Bus Bids
Resolve, that the Board approve four (4) 72
passenger buses to Wolfington for $314,464 and two
(2) 48 passenger buses to M.A. Brightbill for
$155,150.
Background
This was discussed at the March 13, 2012 Finance
Committee Meeting.
2.
Shredding Proposal
Resolve, that the Board approve the shredding
proposal to Priority Shred, a local company. The new
proposal is $15 per console.
Background
This was discussed at the March 13, 2012 Finance
Committee Meeting.
X. Finance
1
March 22, 2012
X.
Finance
B.
General
1.
Budgetary Transfers
Rose Tree Media School District Policy #612…(Public
School code section 609) when funds are not available for a
proposed appropriation, a legal transfer from one class of
expenditure to another may be made in the last nine (9)
months of the fiscal year by the board.
Resolve, that the Board approve the following Budgetary
Transfers:
FY 12-12 Fund 10 General Fund
FROM:
Instruction – Supplies
AMOUNT: $4,000.00
TO:
AMOUNT:
Care & Upkeep of Equipment Services –
Replacement Equipment
$4,000.00
RATIONALE: Transfer needed to purchase three cafeteria
tables with benches.
FY 12-13 Fund 10 General Fund
FROM:
Instruction & Curriculum Development –
Supplies
AMOUNT: $3,100.00
TO:
AMOUNT:
Office of the Principal - Discretionary
$2,600.00
TO:
AMOUNT:
Instruction - Travel
$ 500.00
RATIONALE: Transfer needed for “Artist in Residence” and
Media PTG to help defray the cost of the 5th grade
recognition breakfast. Transfer is also needed for Itinerant
Teacher’s monthly expense reports.
X. Finance
2
March 22, 2012
X.
Finance
B.
General
1.
Budgetary Transfers (continued)
FY 12-14 Fund 10 General Fund
FROM:
Instruction & Curriculum Development –
Supplies
AMOUNT: $2,290.00
TO:
AMOUNT:
Technology Support Services – New
Equipment
$2,290.00
RATIONALE: Transfer needed to purchase a MacBook Pro
for administrative use.
FY 12-15 Fund 10 General Fund
FROM:
School Sponsored Athletics – Dues and Fees
AMOUNT: $1,500.00
TO:
AMOUNT:
School Sponsored Athletics – Travel
$1,500.00
RATIONALE: Transfer needed to fund Spring Travel.
PSBA Program Proposal for 2012 Springfield Psychological
FY 12-16 Fund 10 General Fund
FROM:
AMOUNT:
Technology Support Services – New Equipment
$1,200.00
TO:
AMOUNT:
Instruction - Travel
$1,200.00
RATIONALE: Transfer needed for additional teachers to
attend conferences to help support curriculum.
Background
This was discussed at the March 13, 2012 Finance
Committee Meeting.
X. Finance
3
March 22, 2012
X.
Finance
B.
General
2.
2007 Del-Val Bonds
Resolve, that the Board approve a parameters resolution to
convert the variable interest rate on the 2007 Del-Val bonds
to a fixed rate when the rates reach 2%.
Background
This was discussed at the March 13, 2012 Finance
Committee Meeting. See Attachment B
3.
Springfield Psychological
Resolve, that the Board ratify a contract with Springfield
Psychological to provide psychological services on an as
need basis. The cost will be $350 to $450 per hour for
testing and reporting.
Background
This was discussed at the March 13, 2012 Finance
Committee Meeting.
4.
Contract with Elwyn
Resolve, that the Board approve a contract with Elwyn for
the Davidson School to provide one-to-one services for a
student with special needs. The cost is $160.34 per day.
Background
This contract was presented at the Teaching and Learning
Committee meeting on March 13, 2012. The student already
attends Davidson and is in need of this additional service to
meet the goals in the IEP. The Davidson School is an
approved private school; therefore, a 4010 application will be
filed.
X. Finance
4
March 22, 2012
X.
Finance
B.
General
5.
Contract with Easter Seals
Resolve, that the Board approve a contract with Easter
Seals to provide an Extended School Year (ESY) Program
for a student with special needs. The cost is $1,350.00 for
four weeks.
Background
This contract was presented at the Teaching and Learning
Committee meeting on March 13, 2012. The program runs
from July 9th through July 20th and July 30th through August
10th from 9:00 to 3:00 each day. The aforementioned
educational service is needed to meet the needs of a student
with significant disabilities. The student will receive these
services as indicated in the current IEP.
X. Finance
5
March 22, 2012
X.
Finance
B.
General
6.
Subscription Renewals
Resolve, the Board of School Directors approve the list of
online subscription renewals for use in the 2012-2013 school
year.
Online
Program Use Grades
Affected Gizmos (Science) Instructional 6‐8 KidBiz/TeenBiz (Reading) Instructional 1‐10 Odyssey (Compass Learning Math) Instructional 3‐8 Rand‐McNally Classroom (Social Studies) Instructional 1‐8 Reading A‐Z (Reading) Instructional K‐5 Rosetta Stone (various languages for ESL) Instructional 6‐12 Study Island (Math) Instructional 9‐11 WebAssign (Science and Math) Instructional 11‐12 Better Chinese (World Language) Instructional 9‐12 Choice Literacy (Language Arts) Instructional K‐5 Access PA Membership Library K‐12 Culturegrams by Proquest Library K‐12 Databases for History by ABC‐CLIO Library K‐12 Databases for Literature, History, Health, and General Library 6‐12 Reference by Gale/Cengage Learning Follett Software (Library System Management) Library K‐12 InfoBase – Facts on File Database Library 9‐12 Newsbank Database for Current Events Library 9‐12 Noodle Tools Library 9‐12 World Book Encyclopedia Library K‐12 Background
Under Policy 109, the Board of School Directors approves resource materials for
use in Rose Tree Media schools. The renewals listed above represent contracts
which must be approved by the Board. They provide a variety of resources, but
fall in two general categories: resource materials used in the district’s libraries,
such as the Follett library operating system or the Facts on File database, and
programs used explicitly for instruction, such as KidBiz/TeenBiz. Purchases for
2012-2013 are proposed at a total of $164,934. Renewals are dependent on
final approval of the 2012-2013 budget.
X. Finance
6
March 22, 2012
X.
Finance
B.
General
7.
Textbooks and Software
Resolve, the Board of School Directors approve the list of
textbooks and software for use beginning in the 2012-2013
school year.
Subject Area Level Title (Publisher) Art High School Business Education High School ESL Middle School High School Math High School Music High School Science Technology Education High School High School World Languages Middle School High School Artforms (Pearson) Complete Metalsmith (Davis) Art in Focus (McGraw‐Hill) Introduction To Accounting‐An Integrated Approach (McGraw‐Hill) Introduction to Business (McGraw‐Hill/Glencoe) Personal Finance (McGraw‐Hill/Glencoe) National Geographic (Hampton‐Brown) Grammar & Writing Book (Hampton‐
Brown) Practice Books (Hampton‐Brown) Inside Reading & Language (Hampton‐Brown) Writing Book (Hampton‐Brown) Practice Books (Hampton‐Brown) PreCalculus With Limits: A Graphing Approach (Holt‐Houghton Mifflin) 66 Festive and Famous Chorales – Band Method (Alfred Publishing Co.) Essential Musicianship, Books 2 & 3 (Hal Leonard Co.) Smartmusic (software) Chemistry: Matter and Change (McGraw‐Hill) Graphics Design Portfolio CS4: Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop & InDesign (Against the Clock Publishing) Adobe CS 5.5/6 Design (software) Bien Dit, Level 1 (Holt McDougal) Realidades, Level 1 (Prentice Hall) Deutsch Aktuel, Level 1 (EMC Publishing) Cambridge Latin, Unit 3 (Cambridge Univ. Press) Better Chinese III (Better Chinese) X. Finance
7
March 22, 2012
X.
Finance
B.
General
7.
Textbooks and Software (continued)
Background
In compliance with Policy 108, the Board of School Directors
approves textbooks and software for use in Rose Tree
Media schools. Purchases for 2012-2013 are proposed at a
total of $87,000, which is down from $97,000 in 2011-2012.
Purchases are dependent on final approval of the 2012-2013
budget.
8.
Chartwells Dining Services
Resolve, that the Board approve the renewal contract with
Chartwells Dining Services for the 2012-2013 school year
pending contract review by the district solicitor and PDE.
Background
The current Chartwells Food Service contract expires June
30, 2012. The contract allows the school district to renew for
the 2012-2013 school year pending successful completion of
all PDE Department of Food and Nutrition documents. The
renewal contract is effective for one school year.
9.
Safe Schools Targeted Grant
Resolve, that the Board approve the PDE Safe Schools
Targeted Grant in the amount of $13,696.
Background
The RTMSD has been awarded a grant from the PA Dept. of
Education, Safe Schools Office, Safe Schools Targeted
Grant Program in the amount of $13,696. The grant will be
used to implement The Responsive Classroom program in
all four of our elementary schools. The grant money will be
spent on materials and staff training.
X. Finance
8
March 22, 2012
X.
Finance
B.
General
10.
Increased State Funding for K-12 Public Education
Resolve, that the Rose Tree Media Board of School
Directors approve a resolution to support increased State
Funding for K-12 Public Education. See Attachment C
Background
This item was discussed at the Teaching and Learning
Committee on March 13, 2012.
X. Finance
9
March 22, 2012
ROSE TREE MEDIA SCHOOL DISTRICT
2012-2013 SCHOOL CALENDAR
S
5
12
19
26
M
1
8
15
22
29
2
9
16
23
30
F
3
10
17
24
31
S
4
11
18
25
6
13
20
27
7
14
21
28
S
M
November 2012
T
W
T
F
4
11
18
25
5
12
19
26
6
13
20
27
S
M
February 2013
T
W
T
F
S
3
10
17
24
4
11
18
25
5
12
19
26
1
8
15
22
2
9
16
23
S
5
12
19
26
Key:
August 2012
T
W
T
7
14
21
28
6
13
20
27
1
2
8
9
15 16
22 23
29 30
7
14
21
28
May 2013
T
W
T
1
2
7
8
9
14
15 16
21
22 23
28
29 30
M
6
13
20
27
F
3
10
17
24
31
S
3
10
17
24
S
4
11
18
25
S
2
9
16
23
30
M
September 2012
T
W T
F
7
14
21
28
S
M
October 2012
T
W T
F
1
8
15
22
29
7
14
21
28
1
8
15
22
29
2
9
16
23
30
3
10
17
24
31
4
11
18
25
S
5
12
19
26
6
13
20
27
F
S
4
11
18
25
5
12
19
26
April 2013
W T
F
S
3
10
17
24
4
11
18
25
S
M
December 2012
T
W T
F
S
S
M
January 2013
T
W
T
2
9
16
23
30
3
10
17
24
31
4
11
18
25
6
13
20
27
7
14
21
28
1
8
15
22
29
S
3
10
17
24
31
2
9
16
23
30
6
13
20
27
S
3
10
17
24
S
5
12
19
26
Attachment A
6
13
20
27
7
14
21
28
1
8
15
22
29
M
March 2013
T
W
T
F
S
S
M
T
4
11
18
25
5
12
19
26
1
8
15
22
29
2
9
16
23
30
7
14
21
28
1
8
15
22
29
2
9
16
23
30
4
11
18
25
5
12
19
26
6
13
20
27
M
June 2013
T
W T
M
1
8
15
22
29
July 2013
T
W T
2
3
4
9
10 11
16
17 18
23
24 25
30
31
F
5
12
19
26
S
6
13
20
27
3
10
17
24
4
11
18
25
5
12
19
26
6
13
20
27
5
12
19
26
7
14
21
28
6
13
20
27
F
S
S
7
14
21
28
1
8
15
22
29
7
14
21
28
2
9
16
23
30
3
10
17
24
31
No School - Holiday
Full Inservice Day
Half Day for Students
August 21
September 3
September 4
September 17
September 26
First Day for Teachers
Holiday,All Buildings Closed
First Day of School K-12
Holiday, All Buildings Closed
Holiday, All Building s Closed
November 22, 23 Holiday, All Buildings Closed
December 24-31 Student/Teacher Holiday
December 24-26 Holiday, All Buildings Closed
January 1
January 21
February 18
March 25-29
March 28-29
May 27
June 18
June 20
Holiday, All Buildings Closed
Holiday, All Buildings Closed
Holiday, All Buildings Closed
Student/Teacher Holiday
Holiday, All Buildings Closed
Holiday, All Buildings Closed
Last Day for Students, Early
Dismissal: PHD - 10:15
SLMS - 11:00 - Elem. - 12:00
Last Day for Teachers
July 4
Holiday, All Buildings Closed
*These year-end dates allow for four emergency
school closings during the 2012-2013 school year. If
fewer than four emergency school closings are
needed, these days will be deducted from the end of
the year for students. If more than 3 snow days are
used, days in spring break may be utilized to meet
our necessary requirements for attendance.
RESOLUTION ___
OF THE BOARD OF SCHOOL DIRECTORS
OF THE ROSE TREE MEDIA SCHOOL DISTRICT,
DELAWARE COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
A
RESOLUTION
AUTHORIZING
AND
DIRECTING
THE
CONVERSION OF ALL OR A PORTION OF THE GENERAL OBLIGATION
BONDS,
SERIES
A
AND
B
OF
2007
(COLLECTIVELY,
THE
“PARTICIPANT NOTE”) ISSUED BY THE ROSE TREE MEDIA SCHOOL
DISTRICT (THE “SCHOOL DISTRICT” OR THE “PARTICIPANT”) TO A
LOAN FIXED RATE AND REPEALING INCONSISTENT RESOLUTIONS.
WITNESSETH:
WHEREAS, the School District issued the Participant Note in the aggregate principal
amount of $15,000,000 to the Delaware Valley Regional Finance Authority (“DelVal”) on
December 17, 2007; and
WHEREAS, all of the principal outstanding of the Participant Note currently bears
interest at the Loan Weekly Rate; and
WHEREAS, under the terms of the Loan Agreement of the Participant Note, all or a
portion of the principal outstanding may be converted to a Loan Fixed Rate for any period of
time up to the maturity date of the Participant Note; and
WHEREAS, converting all or a portion of the Participant Note to a Loan Fixed Rate may
benefit the management of the School District’s debt obligations.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ADOPTED BY THE BOARD OF SCHOOL DIRECTORS
OF
THE
ROSE
TREE
MEDIA
SCHOOL
DISTRICT,
DELAWARE
COUNTY,
PENNSYLVANIA, AND IT IS HEREBY RESOLVED AND ADOPTED BY THE
AUTHORITY OF SAID BOARD OF SCHOOL DIRECTORS THAT:
SECTION 1.
AUTHORIZATION TO EXECUTE THE CONVERSION DOCUMENTS
The Board of School Directors hereby authorize the President or Vice-President to
convert all or a portion of the Participant Note to a Loan Fixed Rate and hereby approves the
forms of the documents required to convert all or a portion of the Participant Note to a Loan
Fixed Rate (collectively, the “Conversion Documents”), attached hereto. The President or Vice
President and the Secretary are hereby authorized to execute and deliver the Conversion
Documents, but with such alterations, deletions and additions as they may approve (such
approval to be conclusively established by the execution of the Conversion Documents by the
President or Vice President).
SECTION 2.
CONFLICTING RESOLUTIONS
All resolutions or parts of resolutions not in accord with this Resolution are hereby
repealed insofar as they conflict herewith.
2
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, we, the undersigned authorized officers, have hereunto set
our signatures and affixed hereto the Seal of the ROSE TREE MEDIA SCHOOL DISTRICT,
Delaware County, Pennsylvania.
Dated: March 22, 2012
__________________________________
LINDA KINSLER-FOX
President, Board of School Directors
[Seal]
ATTEST:
_____________________________
GRACE A. EVES
Secretary
3
ROSE TREE MEDIA SCHOOL DISTRICT
DELAWARE COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
GENERAL OBLIGATION BONDS, SERIES A AND B OF 2007
FIXED RATE CONVERSION REQUEST
Pursuant to Section 4.01 of the Loan Agreement, the ROSE TREE MEDIA SCHOOL
DISTRICT, Delaware County, Pennsylvania (the “Participant”), hereby requests the
DELAWARE VALLEY REGIONAL FINANCE AUTHORITY (“DelVal”) to convert the
principal amounts of the General Obligation Bonds, Series A and B of 2007 (the “Participant
Note”) from the Loan Weekly Rate to the Loan Fixed Rate, as set forth on the schedule attached
hereto.
The Participant acknowledges, pursuant to Section 6.01 of the Loan Agreement, that the
Participant may prepay all or a portion of the Participant Note that is subject to the Loan Fixed
Rate or may terminate the Loan Fixed Rate by giving at least thirty days of written notice to
DelVal. THE PARTICIPANT SHALL PAY THE COSTS, IF ANY, INCURRED BY DELVAL
TO TERMINATE THE FIXED RATE SWAP TRANSACTION USED BY DELVAL TO
PROVIDE THE LOAN FIXED RATE TO THE PARTICIPANT.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, we, the undersigned authorized officers, have hereunto set
our signatures and affixed hereto the Seal of the ROSE TREE MEDIA SCHOOL DISTRICT,
Delaware County, Pennsylvania.
Dated:
__________________________________
LINDA KINSLER-FOX
President, Board of School Directors
[Seal]
ATTEST:
_____________________________
GRACE A. EVES
Secretary
2
ROSE TREE MEDIA SCHOOL DISTRICT
GENERAL OBLIGATION BONDS, SERIES A AND B OF 2007
PRINCIPAL TO BE CONVERTED TO A LOAN FIXED RATE
3
ROSE TREE MEDIA SCHOOL DISTRICT
DELAWARE COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
GENERAL OBLIGATION BONDS, SERIES A AND B OF 2007
NOTICE OF FIXED RATE CONVERSION
Pursuant to Section 4.01 of the Loan Agreement, the DELAWARE VALLEY
REGIONAL FINANCE AUTHORITY (“DelVal”) hereby submits the Loan Fixed Rate that
would apply to the Fixed Rate Conversion Request (the “Request”) submitted by the ROSE
TREE MEDIA SCHOOL DISTRICT, Delaware County (the “Participant”), for its General
Obligation Bonds, Series A and B of 2007 (the “Participant Note”). Pursuant to the Request, the
terms of the Loan Fixed Rate are set forth on the schedule attached hereto.
The Participant acknowledges, pursuant to Section 6.01 of the Loan Agreement, that the
Participant may prepay all or a portion of the Participant Note that is subject to the Loan Fixed
Rate or may terminate the Loan Fixed Rate by giving at least thirty days of written notice to
DelVal. THE PARTICIPANT SHALL PAY THE COSTS, IF ANY, INCURRED BY DELVAL
TO TERMINATE THE FIXED RATE SWAP TRANSACTION USED BY DELVAL TO
PROVIDE THE LOAN FIXED RATE TO THE PARTICIPANT.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the undersigned authorized officer of the Program
Administrator of the DELAWARE VALLEY REGIONAL FINANCE AUTHORITY hereby
accepts the terms of the Notice of Fixed Rate Conversion.
Dated:
LUCIEN B. CALHOUN
President, Calhoun, Baker Inc.
Program Administrator
2
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, we, the undersigned authorized officers, have hereunto set
our signatures and affixed hereto the Seal of the ROSE TREE MEDIA SCHOOL DISTRICT,
Delaware County, Pennsylvania.
Dated:
__________________________________
LINDA KINSLER-FOX
President, Board of School Directors
[Seal]
ATTEST:
_____________________________
GRACE A. EVES
Secretary
3
ROSE TREE MEDIA SCHOOL DISTRICT
GENERAL OBLIGATION BONDS, SERIES A AND B OF 2007
LOAN FIXED RATE CONVERSION
ESTIMATED DEBT SERVICE PAYMENTS
4
Attachment C
Resolution Supporting
Increased State Funding for K-12 Public Education
By the Board of Directors
of the Rose Tree Media School District
WHEREAS, Pennsylvania’s more than 1.8 million public school students deserve the highest
quality education; and maintaining and supporting a ‘thorough and efficient system’ of public
education is a constitutional obligation of the commonwealth; and
WHEREAS, it is the responsibility of the Board of Directors of the Rose Tree Media School
District to provide for the education of its students in a manner that enables them to be college
and career-ready upon graduation; and
WHEREAS, increases in recent years in state investment in K-12 education has resulted in
sustained improvement in academic performance for students, as evidenced by these facts that
show that Pennsylvania’s public schools are succeeding:
• Pennsylvania currently ranks 7th among the 50 states for K-12 student achievement and
13th overall in a national report released in January 2012; and
• Pennsylvania’s 2011 PSSA scores show that 94% of public school districts reached
targets for Adequate Yearly Progress as required under the federal No Child Left Behind
Act;
• The number of Pennsylvania public high school students taking and testing in an
Advanced Placement course continues to increase each year, and the numbers of
Pennsylvania students scoring a 3+ on AP exams continues to grow each year. In
November 2011, Pennsylvania was awarded by The College Board as the state with the
most public school districts named to its “AP Honor Roll” for expanding participation in
Advanced Placement courses from 2009 to 2011, while increasing or maintaining the test
results; and
WHEREAS, evidence of academic achievement in the Rose Tree Media School District has
been demonstrated by:
•
•
•
•
•
•
The national and state rankings of the District schools as measured by PSSA proficiency
scores
The national recognition of the Rose Tree Elementary School as a Blue Ribbon School
The college and career readiness of the graduates of Penncrest High School as
demonstrated by post high school placements
The extraordinary number of students completing Advanced Placement courses
The increasing number of students competing for National Merit Scholarships
The service projects completed by students at all levels that benefit the community atlarge; and
WHEREAS, it is critical for Pennsylvania to continue to make smart investments that improve
the ability of our students to compete in the high-skills global economy without shifting the
burden to the local property taxpayers; and
WHEREAS, the 2012-2013 state budget maintains basic education funding at 2008-09 levels,
maintains level funding for special education for the fourth consecutive year although the costs
for providing such mandated services continues to rise, and eliminates the Accountability Block
Grant program; and
WHEREAS, the 2012-13 proposed state budget for K-12 education does not restore funds
eliminated in the 2011-12 budget for charter school reimbursement, school improvement grants;
education assistance programs, elementary science programs, and dual enrollment programs; and
WHEREAS, expectations and requirements for students do not diminish in times of economic
difficulty, as exemplified by the need for school districts to meet rising targets in 2012 for
proficiency on PSSA assessments, implement curriculum aligned with new Common Core
standards, increase graduation requirements and administer Keystone Exams; and
WHEREAS, no increases in K-12 education funding actually is a net loss for public education
considering increases in costs out of the control of school boards, including pensions, prevailing
wage requirements, unreimbursed charter school costs, rising healthcare and energy costs, and
more; and
WHEREAS, the continued reduction of state funding for basic education further shifts the
burden to the local property taxpayers and provide no mandate relief to school districts as a way
of controlling costs; and
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Rose Tree Media School District strongly urges
the General Assembly to take legislative action in the 2012-13 state budget to increase funding
for K-12 education. Such increases include, at a minimum, additional funding for the basic
education and special education subsidies, and restoration of funding for charter school
reimbursement and Accountability Block Grants.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that this district also urges the General Assembly to take
action on meaningful mandate reform by the time the new 2012-13 state budget is enacted and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that a copy of this resolution be posted on the district’s
website and submitted to the elected state senators and representatives of the Rose Tree Media
School District in the General Assembly, and to the Governor of Pennsylvania.
Adopted this _____________ day of_________________, 2012.
Signed,
____________________________
School Board President
___________________________________
Board Secretary
(seal)