ROSE TREE MEDIA SCHOOL DISTRICT
BOARD OF SCHOOL DIRECTORS
Legislative Agenda
December 17, 2009
7:30 p.m.
I.
Call to Order
II.
Approval of Minutes
A.
B.
III.
Penncrest High School Girls’ Volleyball Team
Keystone Achievement Awards
Music by the Penncrest High School Chamber Ensemble and Springton
Lake Middle School Honors Strings, under the direction of Toni Lyons
Reports
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
F.
G.
VI.
Legislative Meeting Minutes of November 19, 2009
Reorganization Meeting Minutes of December 8, 2009
Educational Presentation
A.
V.
Roll Call
Presentations and Awards
A.
B.
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.
B.
Agenda
RTMEA
Healthy Communities Initiative
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12/17/2009
VII.
Unscheduled Presentations (Limited to Three Minutes Each)
A.
VIII.
Old Business
A.
IX.
None
New Business
A.
B.
X.
Rose Tree Media Residents
Personnel
1.
Terminations
a.
Professional
b.
Non-Instructional
2.
Nominations
a.
Professional
b.
Non-Instructional
3.
General
a.
Unpaid Leave of Absence
b.
Salary Change
c.
Supplemental Contracts
d.
Other
e.
Student Expulsions
Overnight Trips
1.
Penncrest High School Chorus – Pittsburgh, PA
Finance
A.
B.
Agenda
Purchasing
1.
Bid Awards – None
General
1.
Budgetary Transfer
2.
DCIU – Disruptive Youth Grant
3.
G. D. Houtman & Son Proposal
4.
Change Orders
5.
DCCC – Allied Heath
6.
Summer School
7.
Contract with Alternative Unlimited, Inc.
8.
Villanova University
9.
Speech Pathology Consultants, Inc.
10.
Speech & Language Therapy Agreement
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12/17/2009
C.
D.
XI.
Financials for November 2009
Bill lists for November 2009
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 January 28, 2010, at Penncrest High
School. The Legislative meetings are recorded on tape.
Agenda
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12/17/2009
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
Denise C. Kerr, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools
To:
From:
Date:
Subject:
I.
Grace A. Eves, Board Secretary,
Director of Management Services
Members of the Board of School Directors
Denise C. Kerr, Ed.D., Superintendent
Grace A. Eves, Board Secretary
November 19, 2009
Minutes of the November 19, 2009 Legislative Meeting
Call to Order
Pledge of Allegiance
Board Members in Attendance:
Roll Call
Students:
Linda Kinsler-Fox, President
Veronica Barbato
Peter Barry
Nancy Fronduti
John Hanna
Nancy Mackrides
William Montgomery
Jeffrey Pettit
Also in Attendance:
Ron Baldino, Director of Maintenance & Oper.
William Bennett, Principal, Indian Lane
Linda Bluebello, Director of Pupil Services
Eric Bucci, Asst. Principal, PHS
Anne Callahan, Dir. Human Resources
Karen Daugherty, Principal, RTE
Bill Dougherty, Principal, GWE
Susan Evans, Ass’t. Principal, PHS
Grace Eves, Dir. Management Services
Angela Gilbert, Dir. Elem. Teaching & Learning
Rick Gregg, Principal PHS
Ron Harris, Network Specialist
Ralph Harrison, Ass’t Principal PHS
Heather Henise, Accountant
Joanne Horan, Reading Supervisor
Anthony Jackowski, Ass’t. Principal SLMS
Mack Johnson, Management Specialist for
SMS and FMS
Nicalia ThompSon
Michele Schapire
Christine Sowa
Daniel Belk
Thomas Kelly, Solicitor
Denise Kerr, Superintendent of Schools
Bonnie Kinsler, Transportation Director
Maria Kotch, Principal, MES
Patti Linden, Dir.Tech. & Info. Sciences
Kim McCann-Roller, Info. Tech. Spec.
Chip Olinger, Athletic Director, PHS
Roxanne Schupp, Supv. Business Oper.
Steve Taylor, Dir. Sec. Teaching & Learning
Katherine White, Principal, MES
II.
Approval of Minutes
A.
Legislative Meeting Minutes of October 22, 2009
Mrs. Fronduti moved and Mr. Hanna seconded a motion to adopt
the following resolution:
RESOLUTION: 2009 -10 – 34
Resolved, that the Board approve the Legislative Meeting Minutes of
October 22, 2009.
The aforementioned resolution was declared adopted by the Chair, the
vote being:
AYES:
NAYS:
III.
Linda Kinsler-Fox, Veronica Barbato, Peter Barry,
Nancy Fronduti, John Hanna, Nancy Mackrides,
William Montgomery, Jeffrey Pettit
None
Presentations and Awards
A.
Eagle Scouts of America – Brian J. Craft and Nicholas J. Frigiola
Mr. Hanna moved and Mrs. Fronduti seconded a motion to adopt the
following resolution:
RESOLUTION: 2009 -10 – 35
Resolved, that the Board present Brian J. Craft and Nicholas J. Frigiola
the Rose Tree Media Award for achieving Eagle Scout Rank.
The aforementioned resolution was declared adopted by the Chair, the
vote being:
AYES:
NAYS:
Linda Kinsler-Fox, Veronica Barbato, Peter Barry,
Nancy Fronduti, John Hanna, Nancy Mackrides,
William Montgomery, Jeffrey Pettit
None
2
11/19/09
III.
Presentations and Awards (cont’d)
B.
Springton Lake Middle School - Eighth Grade Girls Soccer, Seventh
Grade Boys Soccer, and Seventh Grade Girls Soccer Teams –
Undefeated Season
Mr. Hanna moved and Mr. Pettit seconded a motion to adopt the
following resolution:
RESOLUTION: 2009 -10 – 36
Resolved, the Board recognize Springton Lake Middle School Soccer
teams for their 2009 undefeated season.
Seventh Grade Boys Soccer: 10-0 and 1 tie. Team Members: Nick
Anastasi, Ryan Blessington, James Bullitt, Will Deserafino, Christian
DiTomo, Brendan Hanna, Drew Hanna, Corey Hansen, Mark Hull, Kevin
Korthaus, Nick Ladd, Sam Messer, Jude Morgan, Grey Nelson, Brendan
O‘Boyle, Nathan Reagle, George Tahopoulos, Mark Teamerson, Chris
Urffer, Seth Van Horn, Rick Vogler, and Nicky Whalen. Coach: Doug
Krugler Sharpless, Emily Smith, Nicole Stahl, and Christina Weathers.
Coach: Mike DeLeo.
The aforementioned resolution was declared adopted by the Chair, the
vote being:
AYES:
NAYS:
Linda Kinsler-Fox, Veronica Barbato, Peter Barry,
Nancy Fronduti, John Hanna, Nancy Mackrides,
William Montgomery, Jeffrey Pettit
None
3
11/19/09
III.
Presentations and Awards (cont’d)
C.
Professional Registration – Heather R. Henise
Mrs. Fronduti moved and Mrs. Mackrides seconded a motion to adopt
the following resolution:
RESOLUTION: 2009 -10 – 37
Resolved, that the Board recognize Heather R. Henise, Accountant, who
has recently been granted status as a Pennsylvania Registered School
Business Official by the Pennsylvania Association of School Business
Officials.
The aforementioned resolution was declared adopted by the Chair, the
vote being:
AYES:
NAYS:
IV.
Educational Presentation
A.
V.
F.
G.
Student Liaison Reports
Board Liaison Reports
Committee Highlights and Reports
School Reports -In Official Legislative Minutes of November 19, 2009.
Superintendent’s Report –In Official Legislative Minutes of
November 19, 2009.
Solicitor’s Report – In Official Legislative Minutes of November 19, 2009.
President’s Report – In Official Legislative Minutes of November 19,
2009.
Scheduled Presentations
A.
B.
VII.
College Artist and Children’s Book Author, Stephen Parlato –
Mr. William Dougherty, Glenwood Elementary School Principal
Reports
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
VI.
Linda Kinsler-Fox, Veronica Barbato, Peter Barry,
Nancy Fronduti, John Hanna, Nancy Mackrides,
William Montgomery, Jeffrey Pettit
None
RTMEA – Sue Wiliamson
Healthy Communities Initiative – Nicalia ThompSon
Unscheduled Presentations
A.
Rose Tree Media Residents – None
4
11/19/09
VIII.
Old Business
A.
Policy #217 Graduation Requirements – Second Reading and Approval
Mrs. Mackrides moved and Mr. Hanna seconded a motion to adopt the
following resolution:
RESOLUTION: 2009 -10 – 38
Resolved, that the Board approve Policy #217 Graduation
Requirements. See Attachment A in Official Legislative Minutes of
November 19, 2009.
The aforementioned resolution was declared adopted by the Chair, the
vote being:
AYES:
NAYS:
Linda Kinsler-Fox, Veronica Barbato, Peter Barry,
Nancy Fronduti, John Hanna, Nancy Mackrides,
William Montgomery, Jeffrey Pettit
None
5
11/19/09
IX.
New Business
A.
Personnel
1.
2.
3.
Terminations
a.
Professional - None
b.
Non-Instructional
Nominations
a.
Professional
b.
Non-Instructional
General
a.
Classification Change
b.
Unpaid Leave of Absence
c.
Supplemental Contracts – See Attachments B and C
d.
Other
1.
Terminations
b.
Non-Instructional
Mrs. Fronduti moved and Mr. Hanna seconded a
motion to adopt the following resolution:
RESOLUTION: 2009 -10 – 39
Resolved, that the Board approve the following:
1.
Benjamin Shedlock, Support Staff II,
Penncrest High School, resignation, effective
October 26, 2009.
2.
Emily Malone, Support Staff II, Media
Elementary, resignation effective October 29,
2009.
3.
Barbara Tindall, Cafeteria Worker, Springton
Lake Middle School, resignation effective
November 2, 2009.
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11/19/09
IX.
New Business
A.
Personnel
2.
Nominations
a.
b.
Professional
1.
Shari Krause, Long Term Substitute Guidance
Counselor, effective November 3, 2009 at the
annual salary of $49,182, Master’s/Step 1. Ms.
Krause is assigned to Penncrest High School
replacing Sarah Graham who is on leave. NOTE:
Ms. Krause is being hired pending completion of her
pre-employment paperwork.
2.
Katherine White, Assistant Principal, effective
November 20, 2009, at the annual salary of
$108,600. Ms. White is assigned to Springton Lake
Middle School replacing Stephen Quinn who
resigned.
Non-Instructional
1.
Trenae Bowers, Cafeteria Trainee, effective
November 10, 2009 at the rate of $10.55 per hour.
Ms. Bowers is assigned to Media Elementary
replacing Cathy Lejman who resigned. NOTE: Ms.
Bowers is being hired pending completion of her
pre-employment paperwork.
2.
John Barbosa, Substitute Bus Driver, effective
November 2, 2009 at the rate of $20.29 per hour.
Mr. Barbosa is assigned to the Transportation
Department.
3.
John Pisano, Substitute
November 20, 2009 at the
Mr. Pisano is assigned
Department. NOTE: Mr.
pending completion of
paperwork.
4.
Arlene Douge, Substitute Bus Driver, effective
November 13, 2009 at the rate of $20.29 per hour.
Ms. Douge is assigned to the Transportation
Department.
7
Bus Driver, effective
rate of $20.29 per hour.
to the Transportation
Pisano is being hired
his pre-employment
11/19/09
IX.
New Business
A.
Personnel
3.
General
a.
b.
Classification Change
1.
Amber Gibson from Food Service Worker to
Custodian effective November 2, 2009 at the rate of
$15.97 per hour. Ms. Gibson is assigned to
Penncrest
High
School
replacing
Trevor
Chamberlain who resigned.
2.
Ralph Santelli, from Substitute Cafeteria Worker to
Cafeteria Trainee, effective October 1, 2009 at the
rate of $10.55 per hour. Mr. Santelli is assigned to
Penncrest High School.
3.
Stuart Race, from (.5) to (1.0) Personal Instructional
Assistant, Support Staff II effective October 22,
2009. Mr. Race is assigned to Penncrest High
School replacing Ben Shedlock who resigned.
4.
Edward Rheinstader from 1.0 Bus Aide to .5 Bus
Aide effective October 16, 2009.
5.
Diane Swantek, from Part-time Cafeteria Worker to
Full-time Cafeteria Worker effective November 2,
2009. Ms. Swantek is assigned to Penncrest High
School replacing Amber Gibson who was
reassigned.
6.
Paul Waller, from Part Time Driver to Full-time
Driver, effective November 12, 2009.
Unpaid Leave of Absence
1.
Sarah Graham requests an unpaid leave of absence
commencing on February 1, 2010 through June 30,
2010 for purposes of child rearing.
8
11/19/09
IX.
New Business
A.
Personnel
3.
General
c.
Supplemental Contracts
1.
Patrick Carney, (.5) Assistant Varsity Wrestling
Coach, effective November 9, 2009 at the annual
salary of $2,154.00. NOTE: Mr. Carney is being
hired pending completion of his pre-employment
paperwork.
2.
Jana Maxwell, Art Club Sponsor for the 2009-2010
school year, Media Elementary, at the annual salary
of $450.00.
3.
Recommend Board approval for the following
personnel to serve as Event Chaperones at the rate
of $55.00 per event:
Amy Tricome
Svitlana Duffy
Elise Ettien
Michele Frisoli
Diane Swantek
Melvin Crouse
4.
Sharon Williams, New Teacher Mentor for the 20092010 school year at the annual salary of $1,050.00.
5.
Steve Adams, Fall Intramural Instructor, Springton
Lake Middle School at the rate of $27.00 per hour.
6.
Paul Norris Fall Intramural Instructor, Springton
Lake Middle School at the rate of $27.00 per hour.
7.
Recommend Board approval for the Penncrest High
School Winter Athletic Supplemental Contracts for
the 2009-2010 school year. See Attachment B in
Official Legislative Minutes of November 19, 2009.
8.
Recommend Board approval for the Springton Lake
Middle School Winter Athletic Supplemental
Contracts for the 2009-2010 school year. See
Attachment C in Official Legislative Minutes of
November 19, 2009.
9
11/19/09
IX.
New Business
A.
Personnel
4.
General
d.
Other
1.
Recommend Board approval of the 2009-2010
salary for Dr. Denise Kerr, Superintendent at
$178,468, effective July 1, 2009.
The aforementioned resolution was declared
adopted by the Chair, the vote being:
AYES:
NAYS:
B.
Linda Kinsler-Fox, Veronica Barbato,
Peter Barry, Nancy Fronduti,
John Hanna, Nancy Mackrides,
William Montgomery, Jeffrey Pettit
None
Overnight Trips
1.
2.
3.
4.
Penncrest High School Ice Hockey Team – Toronto, Ontario,
Canada
Penncrest High School Wresting Team – Solanco High School,
Quarryville, PA
Penncrest High School Wrestling Team – University of Delaware,
Newark, DE
Penncrest High School Boys and Girls Track Team – Penn State
University, State College, PA
Mrs. Fronduti moved and Mr. Hanna seconded a motion to
adopt the following resolution:
RESOLUTION: 2009 -10 – 40
1.
Penncrest High School Ice Hockey Team – Toronto,
Ontario, Canada.
Resolved, that the Board approve the overnight trip to
Toronto, Ontario, Canada, for the Penncrest High School
Ice Hockey team on December 2 – 5, 2009.
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11/19/09
IX.
New Business
B.
Overnight Trips (cont’d)
2.
Penncrest High School Wrestling Team – Solanco High
School, Quarryville, PA
Further resolved, that the Board approve the overnight trip
to Solanco High School, Quarryville, PA, for the Penncrest
High School Wrestling team on December 11 – 12, 2009.
3.
Penncrest High School Wrestling Team – University of
Delaware, Newark, DE
Further resolved, that the Board approve the overnight trip
to the University of Delaware for the Penncrest High
School Wrestling team on December 18 – 19, 2009.
4.
Penncrest High School Boys and Girls Track Team – Penn
State University, State College, PA
Further resolved, that the Board approve the overnight trip
to Penn State University, State College, PA, for the
Penncrest High School Boys and Girls Track team on
January 22 – 23, 2010.
The aforementioned resolution was declared adopted by
the Chair, the vote being:
AYES:
NAYS:
Linda Kinsler-Fox, Veronica Barbato,
Peter Barry, Nancy Fronduti, John Hanna,
Nancy Mackrides, William Montgomery,
Jeffrey Pettit
None
11
11/19/09
IX.
New Business
C.
Penncrest Course Selection Guide for 2010-2011
Mrs. Mackrides moved and Mrs. Fronduti seconded a motion to
adopt the following resolution:
RESOLUTION: 2009 -10 – 41
Resolved, that the Board approve the Penncrest Course Selection Guide
for 2010-2011, along with the accompanying program proposals, as
follows:
The creation of a strand of courses at rank level 1 in 11th and 12th
grade English to align the English Department’s offerings with
similar offerings in other departments and to create a bridge
between rank level 2 courses and Advanced Placement courses
The creation of a new elective course in Critical Reading within
the English Department
The creation of an Advanced Placement (AP) Macroeconomics
course to round out the offerings for AP Economics students
The creation of a Mandarin Chinese Language program within the
World Language Department, beginning with a course in
Mandarin Chinese I and a course in Chinese culture in 20102011.
The aforementioned resolution was declared adopted by the Chair, the
vote being:
AYES:
NAYS:
Linda Kinsler-Fox, Veronica Barbato, Peter Barry,
Nancy Fronduti, John Hanna, Nancy Mackrides,
William Montgomery, Jeffrey Pettit
None
12
11/19/09
ADDENDUM
IX.
New Business
D.
Addendum - Personnel
1.
Terminations – None
2.
Nominations – None
3.
General
a.
Classification Change
Mr. Pettit moved and Mrs. Mackrides seconded a motion to
adopt the following resolution:
RESOLUTION: 2009 -10 – 42
Resolved, that the Board approve the following:
1.
Charron Verica from Special Education Secretary I,
to Secretary IV, Principal’s Secretary, effective
November 30, 2009 at the annual salary of
$35,781.88. Ms Verica is assigned to Penncrest
High School replacing Dolores Duffy who retired.
The aforementioned resolution was declared
adopted by the Chair, the vote being:
AYES:
NAYS:
13
Linda Kinsler-Fox, Veronica Barbato,
Peter Barry, Nancy Fronduti,
John Hanna, Nancy Mackrides,
William Montgomery, Jeffrey Pettit
None
11/19/09
ADDENDUM
IX.
New Business
D.
Addendum - Personnel
3.
General
b.
Other
1.
Creation of a .2 FTE Middle Level English/Middle Level
Mathematics Teaching Position
Mr. Pettit moved and Mrs. Mackrides seconded a motion to
adopt the following resolution:
RESOLUTION: 2009 -10 – 43
Resolved, that the Board approve the following:
1.
Creation of a .2 FTE Middle Level English/Middle
Level Mathematics Teaching Position
Recommend the creation of an additional .2 FTE
Middle Level English/Middle Level Mathematics
teaching position at Springton Lake Middle School.
This .2 FTE will be combined with the existing .3
FTE Studies Skills teaching position to create a new
.5 FTE teacher to staff the GATE (Guided Actions
and Team Excellence) Program at Springton Lake.
This position is being funded by Title I Stimulus
Funds and will run through January 2011 when it
will be re-evaluated.
The aforementioned resolution was declared
adopted by the Chair, the roll call vote being:
AYES:
NAYS:
14
Veronica Barbato, Peter Barry,
John Hanna, Nancy Mackrides,
William Montgomery, Jeffrey Pettit
Linda Kinsler-Fox, Nancy Fronduti
11/19/09
X.
Finance
A.
B.
Purchasing
1.
None
General
1.
Budgetary Transfers
2.
DCIU IDEA ARRA Pass-Through Funds – See Attachment D
3.
Sunday Use of Facilities – Penncrest High School
4.
PlanCon Part F – Springton Lake Middle School Project – See
Attachment E
5.
Springton Lake Middle School Project Bid Advertising Schedule
6.
Contract with the Davidson School
7.
Contract with the Devereux Foundation Education Program
8.
Contract with the Devereux Kanner Center
9.
Contract with the Marple Newtown School District
10.
Contract with Katie Hartley Opher
11.
Contract with the Institute of Teaching and Learning
12.
Contract with Club Z! Tutoring Services
13.
Settlement Agreement with the Parents of GC
14.
Stericycle
Mrs. Fronduti moved and Mr. Hanna seconded a motion to
adopt the following resolution:
RESOLUTION: 2009 -10 – 44
Resolved, that the Board approve the following Budgetary
transfers:
FY 10 – 01
FROM:
AMOUNT:
Fund 10 General Fund
Debt Service – Authority Obligations
$172,067.00
TO:
AMOUNT:
Community College – Tuition
$172,067.00
RATIONALE: Transfer needed to correct account code.
FY 10 – 02
FROM:
AMOUNT:
Fund 10 General Fund
Special Education – Professional Services
$7,250.00
TO:
Special Education – Books and Supplies
AMOUNT:
$7,250.00
RATIONALE: Transfer needed to cover cost of materials
for students who present significant, specialized needs.
15
11/19/09
X.
Finance
B.
General
1.
Budgetary Transfers
FY 10 – 03
FROM:
AMOUNT:
Fund 10 General Fund
Regular Instruction – Supplies
$2,500.00
TO:
Technology Support Services - Equipment
AMOUNT:
$2,500.00
RATIONALE: Transfer needed to cover the purchase of
smart boards for classrooms.
FY 10 – 04 Fund 10 General Fund
FROM:
Alternative Education – Professional Services
AMOUNT: $2,000.00
TO:
AMOUNT:
Alternative Education – Supplies
$2,000.00
RATIONALE: Transfer needed to cover expenses under
the Alternative Education Grant.
FY 10 – 05
FROM:
AMOUNT:
Fund 10 General Fund
Professional Development Services – Travel
$1,060.00
TO:
AMOUNT:
Regular Education – Books and supplies
$1,060.00
RATIONALE: Transfer needed to cover Math
Investigations teacher curriculum materials for new
teachers.
FY 10 – 06
FROM:
AMOUNT:
Fund 10 General Fund
Regular Instruction – Supplies
$1,000.00
TO:
AMOUNT:
Technology Support Services – Supplies
$1,000.00
16
11/19/09
X.
Finance
B.
General
1.
Budgetary Transfers (cont’d)
RATIONALE: Transfer needed to purchase replacement
bulbs for classroom projectors.
FY 10– 07 Fund 10 General Fund
FROM:
Regular Instruction – Books and
Subscriptions
AMOUNT: $1,000.00
TO:
AMOUNT:
Regular Instruction – Travel
$1,000.00
RATIONALE: Transfer needed to pay for national
conference held at the local level.
2.
DCIU IDEA ARRA Pass –Through Funds
Further resolved, that the Board accept the Special
Education American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of
2009 (ARRA) IDEA Pass-Through Monies Agreement for
2009-2010 funds in the amount of $730,534. See
Attachment D in Official Legislative Minutes of
November 19, 2009.
3.
Sunday Use of Facilities – Penncrest High School
Further resolved, that the Board approve the use of
Penncrest High School on Sundays thru the end of the
current fiscal year June 30, 2010, pending the availability
of a custodian. Use of the facility by community groups will
be subject to all of the terms of School Board Policy No.
707, Use of School Facilities.
17
11/19/09
X.
Finance
B.
General
4.
PlanCon Part F (SLMS Project)
Further resolved, that the Board will not enter into
construction contracts until it has received written approval
for PlanCon Part F, Construction Documents, from the
Department of Education.
Further resolved, that the Board of School Directors has
obtained, or will obtain, all necessary approvals from local,
regional, and state agencies relating to health, safety,
design, planning highway access, and freedom from
flooding and subsidence, prior to entering into construction
contracts.
Further resolved, that the Board acknowledges that failure
to obtain the requisite approvals prior to entering into
construction contracts may be sufficient cause for the
Department of Education to revoke its approval for this
project. If approval is revoked, the project will not be
reimbursed by the Commonwealth. See Attachment E in
Official Legislative Minutes of November 19, 2009.
5.
SLMS Project Bid Advertising Schedule
Further resolved, that the Board approve the advertising of
bids for the SLMS Project on December 4, 2009,
December 7, 2009 and December 14, 2009.
6.
Contract with the Davidson School
Further resolved, that the Board approve a contract for
student JB to receive educational services at The Davidson
School for the 2009-2010 school year. The student is in
need of a one to one aide, as per the student’s IEP. The
cost is $154.64 per day.
18
11/19/09
X.
Finance
B.
General
7.
Contract with the Devereux Foundation Education Program
Further resolved, that the Board approve a contract for
student SM to receive educational services at the
Devereux Foundation Education Program for the 20092010 school year. Services include basic psychiatric
intervention, psychological services, room and board and
related services. The student is in need of this intensive
programming as indicated on the IEP. The cost is
$170.00/day.
8.
Contract with the Devereux Kanner Center
Further resolved, that the Board approve a contract for
student TD to receive educational services at the Devereux
Kanner Center for a specified period of time during the
2009-2010 school year. The student is in need of a one to
one aide to support his transition activities in assigned work
sites. The cost is approximately $75.00 per day.
9.
Contract with the Marple Newtown School District
Further resolved, that the Board approve a contract for
student TA to receive educational services in the Marple
Newtown School District for the 2009-2010 school year.
The student has significant disabilities and is in need of
specially designed instruction to address educational
needs, as per the IEP. The cost is $28,817.29 for a 180day school year.
10.
Contract with Katie Hartley Opher
Further resolved, that the Board approve a contract from
Katie Hartley Opher to provide educational services to
students enrolled in the developmental kindergarten and
primary classes at Indian Lane for the 2009-2010 school
year. Services include music therapy and art therapy. The
budget is as follows: 40 weeks of 2 hours weekly at $90 per
hour totaling $7200 for the year.
19
11/19/09
X.
Finance
B.
General
11.
Contract with the Institute of Teaching and Learning
Further resolved, that the Board approve a contract from
the Institute of Teaching and Learning for training and
consultation services for the 2009-2010 school year. The
following schedule has been proposed: Elementary Special
Education - 4 days, Secondary Special Education - 3 days,
Elementary buildings - 11 days. The cost of services is
$1530 per day plus mileage.
12.
Contract with Club Z! Tutoring Services
Further resolved, that the Board approve a contract from
Club Z! Tutoring Services to provide supplemental
educational services to students utilizing Title I funds, as per
specific set asides for identified students in need. The rate
for services is $50 per student per hour. Club Z! may
receive up to $3000.00 for the 2009-2010 SY.
.
13.
Settlement Agreement with the Parents of GC
Further resolved, that the Board approve the settlement
agreement with the parents of a student with significant
disabilities. The settlement calls for funding up to
$45,000.00 for the 2009-2010 SY. The agreement states
that the district shall pay into the current special needs
trust established under the law by the ARC Community
Trust of PA, the sum of $30,000.00 for the payment or
reimbursement of legitimate educational expenses. It
further states that should these monies be exhausted
during the period of the agreement, the district shall further
fund the trust in the amount of $15,000.00.
20
11/19/09
X.
Finance
B.
General
14.
Stericycle
Further resolved, that the Board approve the contract
between Stericycle and the Rose Tree Media School
District.
The aforementioned resolution was declared adopted by
the Chair, the vote being:
AYES:
NAYS:
15.
Linda Kinsler-Fox, Veronica Barbato,
Peter Barry, Nancy Fronduti, John Hanna,
Nancy Mackrides, William Montgomery,
Jeffrey Pettit
None
G.A.T.E. Program
Mr. Pettit moved and Mrs. Mackrides seconded a motion to
adopt the following resolution:
RESOLUTION: 2009 -10 – 45
Resolved, that the Board approve the SLMS Pilot G.A.T.E.
(Guided Actions and Team Excellence) Program for one
year from January 2010 to January 2011 at which time the
pilot program will be re-evaluated.
The aforementioned resolution was declared adopted by
the Chair, the roll call vote being:
AYES:
NAYS:
Veronica Barbato, Peter Barry, John Hanna,
Nancy Mackrides, William Montgomery,
Jeffrey Pettit.
Linda Kinsler-Fox, Nancy Fronduti
21
11/19/09
C.
D.
Financials for September and October 2009
Bill Lists for September and October 2009
Mr. Hanna moved and Mrs. Fronduti seconded a motion to adopt the
following resolution:
RESOLUTION: 2009-2010 - 46
Resolved, that the Board approve the following:
Financial Reports
September/October 2009
September/October 2009
September/October 2009
September/October 2009
Treasurers Reports
Investment Reports
Summary Expenditure Status Report
Revenue Status Report
Bill Lists
September 2009
September 2009
September 2009
September 2009
September 2009
September 2009
General Fund Bill List
Capital Reserve Fund
Bond Series 2004 Bill List
Construction Fund Bill List
Imprest Fund Bill List
Activities/Special Revenue Fund
$ 3,752,066.74
$
73,998.50
$ 303,456.16
$
8,625.74
$
8,021.50
$
15,096.98
$ 4,161,265.62
Bill Lists
October 2009
October 2009
October 2009
October 2009
October 2009
October 2009
October 2009
General Fund Bill List
Capital Reserve Fund
Bond Series 2004 Bill List
Construction Fund Bill List
GOB Series 2007 A & B
Imprest Fund Bill List
Activities/Special Revenue Fund
$ 2,309,020.41
$
30,407.84
$ 429,886.80
$
8,662.26
$
66,964.40
$
9,160.00
$
27,352.65
$ 2,881,454.36
The aforementioned resolution was declared adopted by the Chair, the vote being:
AYES:
NAYS:
Linda Kinsler-Fox, Veronica Barbato, Peter Barry, Nancy Fronduti,
John Hanna, Nancy Mackrides, William Montgomery, Jeffrey Pettit
None
22
11/19/09
XI.
Adjournment
Mrs. Fronduti moved and Mrs. Mackrides seconded a motion to adopt the
following resolution:
RESOLUTION: 2009-2010 - 47
Resolved, 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:
Linda Kinsler-Fox, Veronica Barbato, Peter Barry, Nancy Fronduti,
John Hanna, Nancy Mackrides, William Montgomery,
Jeffrey Pettit
None
______________________
Grace A. Eves
Board of School Directors Secretary
23
11/19/09
Rose Tree Media School District
308 North Olive Street
Media, Pennsylvania 19063-2493
Telephone 610-627-6136
Fax 610-480-7541
www.rtmsd.org
Denise C. Kerr, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools
Grace A. Eves
Director of Management Services
TO:
Members of the Board of School directors
Denise C. Kerr, Ed.D., Superintendent
FROM:
Grace A. Eves, Board Secretary
DATE:
December 8, 2009
Subject:
December 8, 2009 Reorganization Meeting Minutes
I.
Call to Order
Pledge of Allegiance
Roll Call
Board Members in Attendance: Veronica Barbato, Peter Barry, Linda Kinsler-Fox,
Nancy Fronduti, John Hanna, Nancy Mackrides, William Montgomery, William O’Donnell
Also in Attendance: Anne Callahan, Linda Bluebello, Patti Linden, Steve Taylor, Denise Kerr,
Grace Eves, Tom Kelly and Judge Lippincott
____________________________________________________________________________
II. Reorganization under the appropriate sections of Article IV of the School Laws of
Pennsylvania
The School Board met this day for the purpose of reorganization under the
Appropriate sections of Article IV of the School Laws of Pennsylvania.
III. Oath of Office for Newly Elected School Board Members:
At this time, Judge Lippincott administered the Oath of Office to the newly
elected School Board members.
Veronica T. Barbato
Linda Fox
Nancy R. Mackrides
William Montgomery
Peter P. Barry
IV.
School Board Members and the expirations of their terms:
At this time, School Board President read the list of legally elected and qualified
School Board members and the expirations of their terms:
Veronica Barbato
Linda Kinsler-Fox
Nancy Fronduti
John Hanna
Nancy Mackrides
William Montgomery
William O’Donnell
Jeffrey Pettit
Peter Barry
V.
December 2011
December 2013
December 2011
December 2011
December 2013
December 2013
December 2011
December 2011
December 2013
Nominations for Temporary President
Mrs. Fronduti moved and Mr. Montgomery seconded a motion to adopt the
following resolution:
RESOLUTION: 2009-10 - 48
Resolved, that Nancy Mackrides be nominated as temporary President.
The aforementioned resolution was declared adopted by the Chair, the vote
being:
AYES:
NAYS:
VI.
Veronica Barbato, Peter Barry, Linda Kinsler-Fox, Nancy Fronduti
John Hanna, Nancy Mackrides, William Montgomery, William O’Donnell
None
Nominations for President
Mrs. Fronduti moved and Mrs. Barbato seconded a motion to adopt the
following resolution:
RESOLUTION: 2009-10 - 49
The temporary President opened the nominations for President for the ensuing year.
Resolved, that John Hanna be nominated as President for the ensuing year.
The aforementioned resolution was declared adopted by the Chair, the vote
being:
AYES:
NAYS:
Veronica Barbato, Peter Barry, Linda Kinsler-Fox, Nancy Fronduti
John Hanna, Nancy Mackrides, William Montgomery, William O’Donnell
None
VII.
Nominations for Vice President
Mr. O’Donnell moved and Mr. Barry seconded a motion to adopt the
following resolution:
RESOLUTION: 2009-10 - 50
The newly elected President opened the nominations for Vice President for the
ensuing year.
Resolved, that Nancy Fronduti be nominated as Vice President for the ensuing year.
The aforementioned resolution was declared adopted by the Chair, the vote
being:
AYES:
NAYS:
VIII.
Veronica Barbato, Peter Barry, Linda Kinsler-Fox, Nancy Fronduti
John Hanna, Nancy Mackrides, William Montgomery, William O’Donnell
None
Appointment of Solicitor
Mrs. Barbato moved and Mrs. Fronduti seconded a motion to adopt the
following resolution:
RESOLUTION: 2009-10 - 51
Resolved, that the Board approve Thomas L. Kelly, from the firm of Kelly, Grimes,
Pietrangelo and Vakil, as the District Solicitor for the ensuing year. As in previous years,
the solicitor’s retainer fee will be $7,200 and the hourly fee will be $140.00.
The aforementioned resolution was declared adopted by the Chair, the vote being:
AYES:
NAYS:
IX.
Veronica Barbato, Peter Barry, Linda Kinsler-Fox, Nancy Fronduti
John Hanna, Nancy Mackrides, William Montgomery, William O’Donnell
None
Committee Chairman and Liaison Assignments
The following Committee Chairman and Liaison assignments are as follows:
Committee
Teaching and Learning
Technology
Pupil Services
Personnel
Operations
Finance
DCCC
DCIU
DCIU Legislative
Chairman/Liaison
Jeffrey Pettit
Peter Barry
Nancy Fronduti
Nancy Mackrides
William Montgomery
William O’Donnell
Peter Barry
William Montgomery
Veronica Barbato
All Committees are a committee of the entire Board
X.
Other Business
XI.
Adjournment
Mrs. Kinsler-Fox moved and Mr. Montgomery seconded a motion to adopt the
following resolution:
RESOLUTION: 2009-10 - 52
Resolved, that there being no further business to come before the Board, the meeting
adjourned.
The aforementioned resolution was declared adopted by the Chair, the vote
being:
AYES:
NAYS:
Veronica Barbato, Peter Barry, Linda Kinsler-Fox, Nancy Fronduti
John Hanna, Nancy Mackrides, William Montgomery, William O’Donnell
None
____________________________
Grace A. Eves
Board of School Directors Secretary
III.
Presentations and Awards
A.
Penncrest High School Girls’ Varsity Volleyball Team
Resolve, the Board present the Girls’ Varsity Volleyball Team the
Rose Tree Media Award for finishing the 2009 season as
Undefeated Central League Champions.
Background
The Girls Volleyball Team players are: Sabrina Barbieri, Mattie,
Casanova, Caitlin Evans, Deanna Gardner, Kristen Hartman, Anna
Kassab, Judy Kim, Ashley Merton, Brigid Shehan, Nicole
Sokolovich, and Sophia Sokolovich.
Sophia Sokolovich was
named Delaware County Daily Times Volleyball Player of the Year.
Coaches: Mark Clark and Brian Lynch.
B.
Keystone Achievement Awards
Resolve, the Board recognize the following principals for achieving
Adequate Yearly Progress for two consecutive years. Bill Bennett,
Indian Lane Elementary School, Bill Dougherty, Glenwood
Elementary School, Maria Kotch, Media Elementary School, Karen
Daugherty, Rose Tree Elementary School and Joyce Jeuell,
Springton Lake Middle School.
Background
The Pennsylvania Department of Education recognized our district
schools for earning a Keystone Achievement Award for meeting our
Adequate Yearly Progress targets for two consecutive years. The
Keystone Achievement Award is a public recognition of the fine
work and commitment of Pennsylvania educators and students.
The Award will be displayed at our schools. This award is PDE’s
way of appreciation of our efforts and as a promise of their
continued support, encouragement and service to our school
district.
III. Presentations and Awards
1
12/17/2009
EXCELLENCE
TODAY
FOR TOMORROW
SCHOOL REPORT’S – December 2009
GLENWOOD ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Library
PTG parent, Carla Payne and library technician, Kathy Cook, arranged a visit from
acclaimed collage artist and children's book author Stephen Parlato. In Mr. Parlato’s
collages, intricately cut out pictures and photos form a larger, sometimes humorous,
figure (a horse outline filled with sea life pictures is entitled "Fintastic"). Two of his books
are in the Glenwood library, The World That Loved Books and Dragons Love. Mrs. Cook
shared these with students before his visit, and let them know they’d be making art with
the author. Students in grades 1-5 reported to the gym where foamcore boards with
drawn outlines awaited their creative efforts. By grade level, students worked in groups of
8 or 9 using cut-out pictures that parents and staff members have been collecting since
the summer (kindergarteners were invited to walk through and observe the process).
Forty large collages were created and framed under plexiglas. Some of the artwork will
be kept for our school; most will be auctioned off by the PTG to fund future assemblies.
This was a “fantastic” way for students to work collaboratively and create some
meaningful artwork for Glenwood.
Library technician, Kathy Cook, attended the county-wide librarians’ inservice held at
Ridley High School. Anita Silvey, author of 100 Best Books for Children and a recent
School Library Journal article, “Has the Newbery Lost Its Way?” was the featured
presenter. In the morning session, “Like a Rolling Stone,” Ms. Silvey discussed
characteristics of books that stand the test of time, from Wanda Gag’s Millions of Cats (in
print for 81 years!) and Charlotte’s Web (which debuted to bad reviews) to the Harry
Potter series. In the afternoon session, “Everything I Need to Know I Learned from a
Children’s Book,” Ms. Silvey talked about her own book of the same name, which features
interviews with notable people in the arts & sciences discussing the books that meant the
most to them in their formative years, and sometimes even changed their lives. She also
walked us through the process of getting her own titles published: the original idea,
research, rewriting (and rewriting!), editing, and final publication. It was a very interesting
and informative inservice program.
School Reports
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12/17/2009
Art
Glenwood students brought Holiday cheer to Lima Estates. Some fourth and fifth grade
students from Glenwood Elementary; along with teachers, Betsy Hennessey and Keith
Sharp; and aide, Anne Austin, recently visited Lima Estates Retirement Center. The
students, residents, and staff worked together to create some Holiday table centerpieces.
Guidance
This month in guidance we are working on the expression of gratitude. Research shows
that expressing gratitude in different avenues throughout your day and lifetime increases
a person's life satisfaction. Students are working on developmentally appropriate ways to
learn to best express gratitude.
Kindergarten
The kindergarten students welcomed their parents into their classrooms and entertained
them with turkey songs while they wore their turkey hats. Then the parents played some
literacy games with them and shared a special snack. What a fun day!
Second Grade
Second grade has just finished a unit on Communities and Local Government. Each
student chose an occupation for the simulated town in their classroom. They built
miniature houses and put together a 3D model of their respective towns. They elected a
student mayor, and learned songs and a poem for Community Day. Families were invited
to hear student speakers tell what they have learned about communities, and hear all the
children sing a geography song, a community song, and a poem about choosing an
occupation. Mrs. Grace-Green and Mrs. Martin's second grade went to see "The
Nutcracker", where their classmate Olivia Biordi was performing. To prepare, their
classes read the "Nutcracker," and completed character analysis, and watched key
scenes on You Tube. They thoroughly enjoyed the performance, and then summarized
the story.
Third Grade
In December, teachers spent time in the leveled book room. Since new titles have been
purchased and new teachers have come, it was helpful to look through the books and
align them with curricular goals. Teachers found books that helped teach reading
strategies as well as content area material. They also found books to help them teach
similar concepts and different skill levels.
Fourth Grade
The students in fourth grade have been learning about the various regions of the United
States and will be learning more about Pennsylvania, including the history and natural
resources of the state. Students also continue to work in small guided reading groups
and literature circles to explore new stories and genres of literature. The students
designed and built gingerbread houses using graham crackers, cake icing, and assorted
candy. Parent volunteers helped with the construction of these tasty creations.
School Reports
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12/17/2009
INDIAN LANE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Indian Lane Celebrates Educational Support Professionals Day, 2009!
The teaching staff banded together and provided sandwiches, salads, drinks, and finished
with chocolate & raspberry cakes to some very appreciative support staff. Even the
beautiful orchid & lime colored tableware added to the ambiance of the occasion. Each
support personnel was given a Wawa gift card, as well as a beautiful yellow rose to
complete the day's delicious ending. It is very easy to support such an incredible group
as the Indian Lane teachers!! Education Support Professionals (ESP) Day was first
celebrated in 1987 after NEA's Representative Assembly called for the creation of a way
to honor contributions of school support staff. There is a glowing pride in the valuable
role ESP's play throughout America's public schools. Today's support professionals
provide invaluable services that enable students to learn in positive, supportive
environments. ESP's are equal & essential partners in the education process. Indian
Lane teachers sure do know how to say thank you to their supportive partners in
education.
Library
Guys Read! That was the theme of this year’s fourth and fifth grade boys’ read-in at IL.
Twenty five boys and their dads enjoyed a yummy breakfast and some quality time
reading together to promote 100 Book Challenge. They read from Jon Scieska’s new
biography, Knuckleheads and checked out his website which encourages boys to make
reading a life long activity. The fourth and fifth grade girls also had fun at a pajama readin. The girls read, made their own sundaes and played a book series trivia game. Second
graders are getting a chance to incorporate art and library again this year. In art students
are drawing and learning about Australian animals. In library, they are listening to stories
by Australia’s one and only Mem Fox. Books like Possum Magic and Koala Lou make it
easy to see why they love this Australian author and why she is on the New York Times
bestseller list. First graders are completing an illustrator/author study on Caldecott
winning artist Steve Jenkins. Jenkins’ science background along with his cut paper
artwork make his nonfiction works about animals come to life on the page. We do a good
amount of prediction based on previous knowledge to explore books like, What do you do
with a tail like this? and Prehistoric Actual Size.
American Education Week
In celebration of American Education week, parents were invited to visit the classroom
during student instruction to view their children in action. Each grade level had their
visitation on a different day which gave parents of multiple children ample time to visit
each child. Parents of first graders were encouraged to visit in the classroom and then
attend gym, library, music or art with their child. This gave them an opportunity to
experience a portion of the daily activities of their child.
Kindergarten
Kindergarten students are celebrating the holiday season together. They made
Thanksgiving cards for their pen pals at Templeton Elementary School in November. In
December, they will create ice castles together to welcome winter. Happy Holidays!
First Grade
School Reports
3
12/17/2009
First grade, along with second grade, participated in a Friendship Feast. In addition to
enjoying some goodies on handmade placemats, the children recited a poem about the
importance of friendship. The children have been learning about what school was like
long ago. They found it quite surprising that computers and Smart Boards were not a part
of these classrooms! They had a chance to discuss the differences with their parents as
they completed an activity with their parents to discover both the similarities and
differences between schools of today and schools of long ago. The first grade children
participated in American Education Week by inviting their parents in to spend the morning
seeing what their children's day was all about! November is also when the teachers have
the opportunity to sit down with parents to discuss the children's progress. This is a
special time for both parents and teachers.
Fifth Grade
For parent visitation day, Mrs. Venuto and Mrs. Hendrixson's classes did research on
explorers, wrote reports in first person, made life size replicas of the explorer, and
presented themselves to their classmates and parents. Each year in connection with our
anti-drug and alcohol curriculum, teachers arrange to send fifth graders to City Team with
supplies collected in the lobby of the school. City Team is an organization that houses
homeless men in the city of Chester. In addition, there is an alcohol and drug
rehabilitation program associated with City Team. Each day homeless families in Chester
are fed using the donations that have been contributed. Indian Lane has contributed to
this charity since it opened in 1992. The classes deliver the supplies and in turn have a
tour of the facility. This is great opportunity for the children. Parents are invited to
chaperone the trip, so that they are aware of what the children are learning. Indian Lane
has been very generous with contributions and City Team is extremely appreciative for
our donations.
Music
The Winter Fantasy Chorus, a select group of fifth graders from Indian Lane and Media
Elementary Schools performed their holiday concert at the Media Courthouse this month.
The night performance was a wonderful chance to entertain our community with some
seasonal cheer.
Second Grade
Second grade students took a walking tour of Media. With clipboards and maps, they
found their way to their destinations: Trader Joe’s, the Media Police Station, 10,000
Villages, and The Keystone Bank. All of our hosts were so generous and kind as they
taught students about their business. Second graders learned about what “fair trade” is
and how fortunate we are to be part of the community that honors this concept and
process.
Third Grade
During this holiday season, we are reminded that it is not only nice to receive gifts, but it
also feels good to give. The students in third grade each came up with an unselfish
holiday wish for someone less fortunate. Students wrote their unselfish wish on a star
that will be hung on our "hand" tree display in the third grade hall.
Learning Support
School Reports
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12/17/2009
In the fourth and fifth grade learning support classroom, the fifth graders are reading
Maniac Magee. This book is such a great example of the use of figurative language that
we are marking each example of figurative language using colored coded sticky notes.
Blue notes are for similes, green notes mark metaphors, pink notes are for alliteration,
yellow notes mark personification, orange notes are for idioms, and red notes mark
onomatopoeia. The students are excited about finding the figurative language and having
"flappy" books! In the next two weeks we will use multi-cultural crayons, sing and dance
to the YMCA song, eat butterscotch Krimpets and instant chicken noodle soup, and visit
the Elmwood Zoo in Norristown using pictures, all to enhance comprehension! Also, in
students are working on writing by learning about the parts of a sentence. They are using
a program called Framing Your Thoughts. This week the students cut out a bee on
yellow card stock, sticking two fingers through holes for the legs. The students "flew"
their bees around the room, working on the predicate expanders for where. Then they
wrote five sentences about Mr. Bee in their writing journals, using prepositions as
predicate expanders telling where.
MEDIA ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Parent Connections Forum: Inclusion Dinner
Media School’s Arcadia Inclusion Team hosted a “Parent Connections Forum/ Dinner.” It
was an opportunity for the families of children with special needs to network with each
other and with our team and to have input into our vision for a more inclusive school. Our
Arcadia Team spent the 2008-2009 school year reviewing our inclusive practices. We
planned an event where parents could meet with us, hear about our inclusion initiative,
share their experiences, and help us plan for the future. After a delicious dinner, the
children spent an hour socializing and learning through playing with LEGOS. Ginger
Rowan, who directs a non-profit “Let’s Go Play” and her associate’s directed the
children’s activities. They raffled off two LEGO kits too. Families and staff spent the time
in small groups discussing structured questions. Parents were offered copies of our allschool read, The Elephant in the Playroom, and other resource materials. Our team
debriefed about the event. We felt that we gained some very valuable insight from the
discussions. One parent mentioned that her child does not mind leaving the classroom to
go to the resources room, but that when he returns to his regular education classroom, he
sometimes feels some awkwardness or lack of connection. We shared this with staff for
their consideration.
UNICEF and Candy Drives Exceed Expectations
Media School collected $1,683.18 for UNICEF (our goal was $1000). More than 460
pounds of candy was sent to four different active duty military units in Afghanistan and
Iran. Check out our web site for some photos of our soldiers opening the boxes of candy.
Title 1 Family Night: The Reading and Math Roundup
Children benefit when home and school share responsibility for children’s learning. Rose
Tree Media supports active parent involvement through the Title 1 funded academic
program. The district commits to the following:
• Involving parents through meetings, questionnaires, programs, and parent
compacts
• Holding an annual meeting for parents/guardians
School Reports
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12/17/2009
•
•
Providing workshops/materials for parents
Encouraging communication between home and school by providing assessment
results, progress reports, etc.
• Annual evaluation of the effectiveness of our program
• Clear communication with parents
Our Reading and Math Roundup was an excellent opportunity for our Title 1 families to
learn strategies and take home materials to support learning. After a brief presentation by
Mrs. Kotch and Dr. Gilbert about our Title 1 program, each family received a “Tool Kit” At
each session, parents collected materials for the “Tool Kit,” things that can be used at
home to support learning. Dictionaries, games, flash cards, calculators, rulers, game
boards, and dice for math games are just some of the items that were offered. Mrs.
Echeverria and Miss Mitchell (reading support) and Miss Seeley (math) offered two
sessions (one for primary grades and one for intermediate grades). In between sessions,
we all took a break for a dessert buffet. Ice cream sundaes with all the “extras” were a big
hit. Mrs. Verdeur (music), Mrs. Shapero (phys.ed.), and Mrs. Walker (grade 2) supervised
the children. During the first parent session, the children enjoyed lots of fun activities in an
“open gym” format and during the second session, they enjoyed some musical fun and a
video. It was a productive night with excellent participation.
Veteran’ Day Parade in Media
We did not allow the inclement weather to dampen our spirits or inhibit our participation in
Media’s annual Veteran’s Day Parade. Our fifth graders marched as our representatives.
They joined Penncrest students to unfurl the American flag in front of the courthouse.
Mrs. Kotch greatly enjoyed joining other school district officials on the viewing stand.
Penncrest, Springton and Media all represented themselves very well.
PTG Events
Our PTG was especially busy this month. They sponsored a very successful Scholastic
Book Fair, had a “KIDSTUFF Coupon Book” fund raiser and a “Dining Out Night” at Zac’s
Hamburgers, provided lunch for the staff during Parent-Teacher Conferences, and kicked
off the holiday season with an Arts and Crafts Night.
American Education Week
Each year during the third week in November, we welcome parents to our school for
American Education Week. Our classrooms were filled with enthusiastic parents who
were anxious to see their children’s classrooms. Parents returned the following week for
Parent-Teacher Conferences. They also received progress reports (first trimester) which
had a slightly different format this year.
Holiday Giving
Through the generosity of our school community we were able to provide full
Thanksgiving dinners to more than a dozen of our families. We were also able to provide
a generous number of canned goods to the Penncrest canned food drive and more than a
dozen large turkeys to The Community Action Agency.
Grade Level News
Kindergarten children are using Compass Learning (computer) which assists with
differentiating instruction.
School Reports
6
12/17/2009
Grade 1 had a Friendly Feast .They all joined together for some social skill practice,
fellowship, and food prior to the Thanksgiving holiday.
Grade 2 students observed the environmental changes that autumn brings during a trip to
The Tyler Arboretum. They related to the lifestyle of the Native Americans and reflected
on how seasonal changes would have affected them. Second grade teachers are also
very happy to have new SMARTBOARDS. They are working hard to develop lessons
using the SMARTBOARDS to stimulate student interest and engagement.
Third grade students are preparing individual research reports on an aspect of the solar
system. A field trip to The West Chester University Planetarium was planned as part of
the unit. SMARTBOARDS will be installed in our third grade classes next week.
Fourth grade had a cultures celebration during American Education Week. Families were
invited to share aspects of their heritage which includes lots of delicious homemade food.
Fourth grade also visited the Tyler Arboretum as part of the grant, that Tyler included us
in, from The Forestry Service.
Fifth graders completed a study of the cultural regions of North America and the American
Indian tribes. They created Power Point presentations on their research.
Students in fourth and fifth grade AGP have begun using Voicethread. Voicethread is an
online media album that allows a group of people to make comments on images, videos,
and documents. You can participate five different ways: using your voice (with a
microphone or telephone), text, audio file, or video (with a web cam). It is easy to control
who can access and comment on a voice thread which makes it a secure place to have a
group conversation. The students have been using voicethread to discuss images related
to their studies of Lewis and Clark and Immigration.
New Staff Welcomed
We were very happy to welcome several new staff members this week: Amanda Sessa
(instructional assistant), Mary Grasty and Trenae Bowers (cafeteria), Christy Thompson
(daily sub), Lisa Cassidy (ESL), and Anthony Grisillo (AGP).
Delaware Valley Minority Student Achievement Consortium
Kindergarten teachers Lisa Hooven and Kristin Connell attended a December session of
The Delaware Valley Minority Student Achievement Consortium. The session, “But I’m
Not the Reading teacher, Leadership for Literacy,” was given by Dr. Kimberly Bates.
Memorial Stained Glass Installed
A stained glass panel, created by artists Susan and Bill Schroeder, was installed at Media
School. The piece, in memory of our beloved colleague, Robin Smith, was a faculty gift. It
depicts a Robin feeding the chicks in her nest. It is a perfect tangible reminder of Mrs.
Smith’s presence and influence on our school. She is greatly missed.
ROSE TREE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
This has been a month of holiday happenings. We have had so many wonderful
concerts, performances and holiday experiences! Our fourth grade classes saw a
performance of The Nutcracker, our band and strings elementary concert was held at
School Reports
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12/17/2009
Penncrest High School, our chorus performed at the holiday Festival, our artists displayed
their masterpieces at O’Malley’s Ice Cream Shop and had a reception there, and our
holiday concert assembly was followed by an evening performance for the community. In
all of these events our students were exemplary in their performance and behavior.
Kindergarten
Kindergarten students completed Theme 4: Friends Together from the Houghton Mifflin
Reading Curriculum. Their daily use of the “My Little Alphabet Book,” created by the
district, has increased their letter and sound recognition to help us prepare for the MidYear DIBELS assessment. In Math, students went on an observation walk around the
school to look for patterns and shapes. In Social Studies, students studied “Holidays
Around the World” and they invited parent volunteers to come and share about their
holiday traditions.
Second Grade
Second graders at Rose Tree participated in a mini-unit on "gingerbread" this holiday
season.
Activities included literature pieces, gingerbread centers focusing on
performance, graphing and area/perimeter and an activity with the Smartboard. The
children enjoyed a gingerbread treat to wrap up this fun and educational experience.
Fourth Grade
Fourth graders at Rose Tree Elementary School continued their various service projects.
In October, the children collected money for UNICEF. In November, they collected
canned goods for the Media Presbyterian Church. In December, the children collected old
blankets, chew toys and special treats for their furry friends at the SPCA. The fourth
grade teachers have been teaching the children to think more globally. They learned the
age-old lesson that “giving is better than receiving.” The fourth grade classes will
continue their monthly service projects throughout the year.
Library Happenings
Students have been learning location and access strategies in the library. Students have
been demonstrating mental connection strategies during reading. The Rose Tree
Elementary Reading Olympics team includes 12 hard working and motivated fifth grade
students. Students have been meeting for 50 minutes on days 1 and 7 to discuss
Reading Olympic Books, summaries and strategies for the competition which takes place
on May 5, 2010, at the Garnet Valley High School.
Guidance
In our on going effort to help our children appreciate the spirit of giving, Rose Tree School
again decided to share our good fortune with those who are less fortunate. During this
winter holiday season, the children were again encouraged to look outward by giving to
others. During the month of December the whole school worked together for our Winter
Holiday Project donating items for needy children in Chester, PA. All grade levels were
assigned a different item to bring to school. Each class was assigned a specific age
range to help target their purchases. Items included crayons, coloring/activity books,
socks, mittens/gloves, books and small inexpensive toys. It was a smashing success! We
were able to provide gift bags for almost 60 children! Fifth grade service club members,
K.I.D.S., traveled to the Wesley House Shelter and Kidz First Daycare in Chester to
personally deliver the gifts to the children. Both of these sites are part of the Community
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Action Agency of Delaware County. The joy on everyone’s faces was a sight to behold!
This generous outpouring came on the heels of another successful Trick or Treat for
UNICEF campaign in which the school raised $966.38! That is $42.32 more than was
raised last year. In spite of a poor economy and finances continuing to be tight, Rose
Tree Elementary still found a way to reach out to those less fortunate than ourselves!
SPRINGTON LAKE MIDDLE SCHOOL
Art
Ms. Sycz’s eighth grade students have begun a new lesson which focuses on the art of
lettering which correlates to their study in social studies to the art of the Middle Ages,
including illuminated manuscripts. In addition to integrating the principles of design that
were studied in their last unit, students are focusing on balance, proportion and color
theory. Students will be reading about the art in the Middle Ages to reinforce their
appreciation of the achievements at that time period. Also students will investigate the
role art plays according the needs of the culture. Eighth grade students will have the
opportunity to incorporate resource images obtained off of the internet in their lettering
project related to illuminated letters. Grade seven students will end their portrait project
by reading about different subjects artists use for their art work. Students will then move
into an exploration of the principles and elements of art in an abstract watercolor painting
inspired by the artist Kandinsky. Grade six students are learning about the basics of
ceramic pottery and learning to create a container using slab construction. Students will
incorporate the principles of art studied in the last project and will explore the role of
texture in an art work.
Mrs. Going's eighth grades have moved into one of their favorite units, the art of the
Illuminated Manuscript and the Middle Ages! After reviewing the history of the time and
the lengthy process of making a book during this period, students have begun the journey
of preparing their own manuscript page. They will be thinking about the differences
between now and then, compiling notes and writing on this subject at the conclusion of
the unit! Seventh grades are actively working on their sculptures for this year's ceramic
unit. Finishing details should be added in the next week or so and students will get ready
to Glaze their pieces. Sixth grades are moving nicely into the "color” stage for their
Chinese Zodiac study. They have learned to develop a landscape using foreground,
middle and background for depth perception and the element of "Space' and are now
learning the element of Value and how to create a scale in color and pencil. On to bigger
and better things!!!
Eighth graders in Mrs. Prior's art classes have been exploring the Romanesque and
Gothic styles of the Middle Ages through our texts and classroom instruction. Students
will create manuscript pages influenced by Medieval colors, designs, and lettering
styles that are combined with contemporary quotes, designs, and imagery. Seventh
graders have switched gears from the difficulty and tightness of their one point
linear perspective projects to more spontaneous abstract pastel drawings. Both projects
encompass the use of the elements and principles of design to create well planned
and successful compositions. Sixth graders continue to hone their drawing skills by
practicing to draw human portraits in pencil.
Library
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LaVerne Motley and the district librarians attended the annual workshop sponsored jointly
by the IU and the Delaware County Library System. The featured speaker was Anita
Silvey, previously children’s book editor at Houghton Mifflin, editor of the Horn Book
magazine and author of numerous books including 100 Best Books for Children,
Everything I Need to know I Learned from a Children’s Book, and 500 Great Books for
Teens. The fall Book Fair was held in the Library. All students received a flyer describing
the books to be delivered. Language arts classes were scheduled to attend during the
day and two evening sessions provided the opportunity for students to bring their parents
and siblings back to enjoy the selection of books and shop as a family.
Students from Mrs. Hemenway’s life skills class come weekly for a story and book
selection. Mrs. Motley was reading The Wizard of Oz by Frank Baum in preparation for a
trip to the Media Theater to see the play. Mrs. Cooper’s language arts classes
participated in a library lesson to broaden their understanding of plagiarism. Students
listened to the story of Blair Hornstine who plagiarized several sources in newspaper
articles that she wrote during the summer. After being accused of plagiarizing and
admitting that she had failed to properly cite sources, Harvard University withdrew her
acceptance. Students brainstormed acts that constituted plagiarism and then, guided by
Mrs. Motley, developed strategies to avoid it. They applied these six strategies when
rewriting excerpts from Undaunted Courage.
Mrs. Mc McCarthy’s eighth grade social studies classes partnered to research people and
practices from ancient Egypt. Having completed their searches, they created thoughtfully
planned and laid out PowerPoint slides to communicate their findings to their classmates.
Seventh graders from Mr. Nixon’s social studies classes researched the early
development of the two-party political system in the U.S. Students focused on the
Jefferson-Hamilton Presidential election as they discovered how the Federalists and
Democratic-Republicans first squared off. Students used their research to write
persuasive essays and speeches and to engage in debates. Sixth grade science
students from Mrs. Schied and Mrs. Maguire’s classes researched infectious bacterial
and viral diseases. Students used their knowledge to create a song, a pamphlet, a TV
script, or a billboard to share their knowledge with the rest of the class. Five groups of
science students from each of Ms. Dizon’s and Mr. Henderson’s classes researched
protists, fungi, bacteria, plants, or animals – one of the five kingdoms of life. Each group
then created a PowerPoint to teach the rest of the class about their kingdom. Following
the presentations, the groups used interactive games such as Jeopardy or Memory on the
Smart Board to review the important aspects of their presentation.
Math
Sixth grade accelerated math students have been studying the concept of similarity.
Students enjoyed using coordinate graphs to create computer game figures called Mug
Wumps, to better understand when two figures are similar. As a follow up to this activity,
students created their own computer figures, and then used coordinate rules to create a
figure that was similar to their computer figure and a figure that was considered an
imposter because it was not similar to the computer figure. Sixth grade math students are
learning when and how to find the GCF and LCM in the context of a real world problem.
Students are getting ready to learn about prime factorization and how to use prime
factorization to find the GCF and LCM.
Grade 7 Connected Math 8 classes are
concluding their study of the “Thinking With Mathematical Models” unit. In the unit
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students have compared equations, graphs, and tables of linear and inverse variation
relationships. Real-life connections included construction costs, bridge strength, and
time, speed, and distance relationships. Connected Math 7 classes are concluding their
study of the “Variables and Patterns” unit, which concentrates on linear relationships. The
bicycle tour business connection in the unit focused on writing and graphing linear
equations by recognizing patterns in tables of values and graphs. Grade 8 Connected
Math Program classes recently completed a unit on surface area and volume of
rectangular prisms and cubes. They altered the dimensions of prisms to see what shapes
will yield the least surface area because this often creates a cost-savings for companies
that package many items per day. These classes are currently working on algebra
functions that have linear and inverse relationships. In order to build these concepts we
are analyzing patterns in bridge strength when either A) its length is changed or B) its
thickness is changed. After learning to solve and graph linear equations, Algebra classes
are learning how to write linear equations. The students now know how to write
equations when given the bare minimum of information. No matter what information they
start with, finding the slope and the y-intercept are the most important pieces to solve for!
Music
Sixth grade general music students build musical “sandwiches” as they explore melody
and rhythm and create original compositions. In seventh grade general music, pupils
performed “Chester” on their keyboards as they correlated social studies with the life of
William Billings, America’s first composer. They are celebrating the holiday season with a
study of “The Nutcracker.” Continuing a study on the history of music, eighth graders
completed the Renaissance era by soloing on “Scarborough Faire” and ringing a chime
ensemble to “Greensleeves.” The Sixth Grade Band, Sixth Grade Orchestra, and
Handbell Ensemble entertained their audience with a variety of seasonal songs on
Wednesday, December 2. Mr. Alan Reno, Mrs. Toni Lyons, and Mrs. Susan Knipel
directed an excellent concert. The Seventh Grade and Select Choruses performed their
holiday concert under the direction of Mr. Joseph Fisher. More holiday music will be
presented by the Eighth Grade and Select Choruses. This group is also under the
direction of Mr. Joseph Fisher. String students from grades seven and eight will combine
for a holiday concert under the direction of Mrs. Antoinette Lyons. SLMS Honor Strings
will also perform. Over 131 students will participate in the Sixth Grade Winter Concert,
“December Nights,” under the direction of Mrs. Susan Knipel.
Physical Education
All grade levels and Physical Education classes 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 taught by the entire physical education staff. Sixth grade
classes have had the opportunity to experience a variety of activities including a weight
room introduction, hockey, and basketball. In the weight room the students learned about
the different machines that are 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 basketball, the students had the opportunity to learn
basic fundamentals of basketball, and apply them to game-like situations. Boys: The
seventh and eighth grade boys have been participating in a basketball unit where they
have been working on a variety of skills. They have had the opportunity to use there skills
School Reports
11
12/17/2009
in a 4 on 4 half court tournament. In addition to playing in this tournament, the students
had to complete a team assignment. Within this assignment each team member was
responsible to complete a specific job that connects with another school subject.
Students had their choice of completing a social studies, artistic, musical, language arts
or mathematical job. Girls: The seventh grade girls have been working on a self defense
unit. The students have worked on understanding potential harmful situations and how to
handle them. The class will have a special guess speaker from the state police to discuss
ways on protecting themselves and what to do during certain situations. The eighth grade
girls have been working on the weight room and aerobics. In the weight room unit, the
girls have been learning about identifying muscle groups and how caloric expenditure
works in regards to how diet and exercise can affect one another. The aerobics classes
have focused on different training methods that have aerobic-type themes such as Taebo
and Latin influenced Zumba aerobic/dance training.
Science
Sixth grade science students are researching diseases caused by bacteria, viruses and
fungi. In addition to learning about their chosen topics, they are learning research,
organizational and time management skills. They will use the information on their topic to
create a pamphlet, poster, music video or medical report to share with the class. This
month eighth grade students are working on phase changes and states of matter.
Students have looked at a non-Newtonian fluid (corn starch and water) and explored how
and why it behaves like a solid and a liquid. We have also measured temperature to
observe what happens when ice melts and water boils. Students will be creating ice
cream, in order to demonstrate freezing point depression, the use of rock salt in the
winter, and the phase changes of melting, freezing, and deposition. Finally, we are using
the program, Explore Learning-Gizmos, to study the molecular movement associated with
phase changes, and to graph and explain this information. Gizmos are online simulations
that allow student to manipulate lab activities that normally would not be available in the
classroom, and encourages students to apply high-level critical thinking skills when
discussing new concepts. We will be working on using Gizmos more frequently as
the year goes on.
Social Studies
Sixth grade students are currently finishing up their study of China, Japan, and the
Korean Peninsula. Next week, they will start a new Geography Alive unit on India which
focuses on India’s role in the information technology industry. The seventh grade
students are also piloting a new Nystrom historical map program this month. They are
currently studying the Federalists and the Democratic-Republicans. They are learning
about the differences between the first two political parties during the presidencies of
Washington and Adams. In eighth grade, social studies students are creating PowerPoint
presentations based on various topics from Ancient Egypt. Topics include specific
pharaohs (Tutankamen, Ramses II, female Pharaoh Hatshepsut), Queen Nefertiti,
pyramid building, Ancient Hebrews and the Kingdoms of Kush and Axum. Each student
will be expected to present their reports to their respective classes. All sixth, seventh,
and eighth grade students viewed the Unicef video through their social studies classes.
Springton Lake students raised over $1500.
Special Education
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12/17/2009
As always, there is much activity in our department. This year’s first issue of our
newsletter “Connections Courier” was mailed to parents shortly before Thanksgiving.
Information about technology resources, the ACCESS program, our new decoding and
fluency classes, and literacy was included in the first issue. In addition, we included short
biographies of new staff members, as well as an article on how parents can monitor their
children’s technology use. Curricular initiatives are proceeding well. The math teachers
continue to report success with our new curriculum, Connected Math Program-2 (CMP-2).
The decoding and fluency classes are providing targeted instruction to students needing
reinforcement in those areas. And of course, we continue to offer and adapted Spanish
class to seventh and eighth graders who have been recommended by their teachers and
families.
Though it’s hard to believe, the time for course registration is fast approaching. The
teachers and the administrative team are already making plans to facilitate fifth-to-sixth
grade and eighth-to-ninth grade transitions. In addition, the department is beginning to
prepare the budget for the 2010-2011 school year. On the technology front, Read Out
Loud software has been installed on all special education teachers’ computers. This textto-speech software will help support some of our struggling readers and will interface with
many of the newer textbook series.
PENNCREST HIGH SCHOOL
Students in the News
Senior Jonathan Friestedt and Junior Patrice Coleman were selected as the Media Rotary
Club Students of the Month for November. They were honored at a luncheon on
Thursday, November 19, at the Towne House in Media. Congratulations to Jonathan and
Patrice!
Temple University Tour
Thirty-one students proudly represented Penncrest during a tour of Temple University.
Organized by Cindy Garvin, Nick Bell, and Lori Rice-spring, the tour included a campus
walk-through and a Q/A session with a Temple Owl representative. The afternoon
concluded in the university’s cafeteria with an all-you-can-eat buffet.
Financial Literacy Workshop at Widener
Eleven Penncrest students attended a Financial Literacy Workshop at Widener
University. Accompanied by faculty Cindy Garvin and Dave Matthews, students
participated in various interactive discussions related to the fundamentals of financial
management for young adults.
National French Week at Penncrest High School
The PHS French department hosted several activities to promote French and Frenchspeaking countries during National French Week. Penncrest students were invited to
watch the film, Bienvenue chez les Ch’tis. Also, students took buses to SLMS for a
pétanque tournament (the French version of bocce ball). The French music group, Coco
Soleil performed at the school; concert proceeds benefited the Phyllis Kavanaugh
scholarship for study abroad. Over 60 staff and students dined at Casablanca restaurant
on City Line Avenue and experienced a traditional, six-course Moroccan meal. Students
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12/17/2009
and staff celebrated by wearing their favorite French t-shirt. Throughout the week a
French scavenger hunt contest took place with contest winners receiving gift certificates
to area French restaurants. Additionally, a French quote and word-of-the-day were
played on the morning announcement. Eleven students were interviewed for the 20092010 Phyllis Kavanaugh Scholarship for study abroad. German students will visit the
Christmas Village in Philadelphia at Dilworth Plaza. Students will learn about German
Christmas traditions and enjoy a traditional German lunch.
Technology Department News
Penncrest Technology Education teachers Carl Kriebel, Steve Mescanti, and Jody Ruckle
attended the Technology Education Association of PA annual conference in Camp Hill,
PA. They viewed a variety of programs on topics such as: Digital Infrared Photography,
3D Modeling and Animation, and Moving to the New PA Standards for Technology
Education. Carl and Steve participated in a "Think Tank" at the Council for Leadership
Forum on pressing issues in Technology Education and the implementation of "green"
technologies and initiatives in schools. General session speaker, Dr. Yvonne Spicer,
Vice-President of Advocacy & Educational Partnerships at the National Center
for Technological Literacy in Boston, spoke on Technology Education's role as a core
discipline in the new STEM Initiatives. Dr. Mark Sanders, of Virginia Tech, shared his
thoughts on STEM and its role in the ever-changing educational landscape in America.
Renaissance
The Renaissance Induction Ceremony was held in the Penncrest Auditorium. Tenth
graders who made honor roll at least once last year were inducted. Mike LoBiondo was
the guest speaker.
Choir News
The Penncrest Choirs presented their annual Winter Holiday Concert. Three choirs
performed a varied selection of classical and classic holiday tunes incorporating
Hanukkah and Christmas. In addition to the traditional school concert, the Ambassador
Choir, UpScale Singers, and the newly formed a cappella club have all been out in the
community throughout this month representing Penncrest High School and the Rose Tree
Media School District in concert.
The Choral Department congratulates five students who successfully navigated the
PMEA District Competition and will represent Penncrest at the District 12 Choral Festival
on January 28-30, 2010, at Great Valley High School. The successful students are
seniors - William Murphy, Jonathan Friestedt, Kathy Teal and Juniors - Shea Gaffney and
Ryan Moore.
Powder Puff Football Game
The Powder Puff football game for the cure took place with over 100 Junior and Senior
Girls participating in the event. The Senior class won the game in overtime. Allison
Fitzgerald (Senior) and Kara Anderson (Junior) organized the entire event. The event
raised $1,278 for the Linda Creed Breast Cancer Awareness Foundation which supports
women in Delaware County.
School Reports
14
12/17/2009
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
Denise C. Kerr, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools
To:
Members of the Board of School Directors
Denise C. Kerr, Ed.D. Superintendent
From:
Grace A. Eves, Director of Management Services
Date:
December 8, 2009
Subject:
December 8, 2009 – 8:15 PM Finance Committee Minutes
Chairperson: Bill O’Donnell
_____________________________________________________________________
In Attendance:
Veronica Barbato, Peter Barry, Nancy Fronduti, Nancy
Mackrides. Bill Montgomery, William O’Donnell and Jeffrey Pettit
Also In Attendance: Denise Kerr and Grace Eves
___________________________________________________________________
1. DCIU - Disruptive Youth Grant – Delaware County Detention Center
The district is required to provide educational services for students at the detention
center, which is located in the district. The district is invoiced by the IU, which provides
the educational services. The district then invoices the sending districts. There is a
$75,000 shortfall for the IU due to the loss of the alternative education grant from the
state. The sending schools will be invoiced directly by the IU for this shortage.
Action: This item will be moved to the December 17th Legislative Agenda for approval.
2.
Budgetary Transfers
There are three budgetary transfers.
FY 10-08 Fund 10 General Fund
FROM:
AMOUNT:
Instructional Staff Development - Professional Education Services
$2,500.00
TO:
AMOUNT:
Instructional Staff Development – Supplies
$2,500.00
RATIONALE: Transfer needed to pay for Induction program.
FY 10-09 Fund 10 General Fund
FROM:
AMOUNT:
School Sponsored Student Activities- Supplies
$1,560.00
TO:
AMOUNT:
School Sponsored Student Activities – Rentals
$1,560.00
RATIONALE: Transfer needed for table and chair rental for 6th grade Thanksgiving
Luncheon and 8th grade recognition ceremony.
FY 10-10 Fund 10 General Fund
FROM:
AMOUNT:
Regular Instruction- Supplies
$2,100.00
TO:
AMOUNT:
Regular Instruction – Replacement Equipment
$2,100.00
RATIONALE: Transfer needed to purchase replacement gym mats.
Action: This item will be moved to the December 17th Legislative Agenda for
approval.
3.
Budgetary Comparison
Action: Discussion
4.
2010-11 Revenue
2009-10 millage rates were reviewed for 14 of the 15 Delaware County school
districts. The district has the third lowest tax increase and millage rate for
2009-10. The district had a 2.5% tax increase for 2009-10 for a millage rate of
21.6251. The Act 1 Index for 2010-11 is 2.9%. Ten years of assessment
and tax levy history were reviewed. The district had over 100 tax appeals, which
will impact the 2010-11 fiscal year. The new assessment value is comparable to
the 2007-08 fiscal year. There is a reduction in assessment of $47,630,715. The
tax increase for 2010-11 will not directly correlate to revenue due to the reduction
in assessment. A 2.9% tax increase will generate approximately $758,415 in
revenue. The 2.5% tax increase for 2009-10 generated $1,880,479.
Action: Discussion
The next Finance Committee meeting will be held on January 5, 2010 at 7:00 p.m.
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
Denise C. Kerr, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools
___
To:
Members of the Board of School Directors
Denise C. Kerr, Ed.D. Superintendent
From:
Grace A. Eves, Director of Management Services
Date:
December 8, 2009
Subject:
December 8, 2009 - 7:15 PM - Operations Committee Minutes
Chairperson: Bill Montgomery
___________________________________________________________________
In Attendance:
Veronica Barbato, Peter Barry, Nancy Fronduti, Nancy
Mackrides. Bill Montgomery, William O’Donnell and Jeffrey Pettit
Also In Attendance: Denise Kerr, Grace Eves, Ron Baldino and Dennis Cini
1. Springton Lake Middle School Update
A presentation was held at Springton Lake Middle School on December 3rd.
Bonnett Associates and D’Huy Engineering presented the project and phasing
plan to the public. Additional meetings will be held. There will be a temporary
library to provide access to library books during the project. Planning for moving
the current contents of the library will take place. The pool will tentatively be
available in the fall of 2011 for students and opened to the public in the fall of
2012. The bids have been advertised. The bid opening is scheduled for February
16th.
Action: Discussion
2. Proposal from G.D. Houtman & Son., Inc. not to exceed $6,695
for Slope Stabilization of Penn Field #3
The erosion at the hillside of Penn Field #3 has continued.
Action: This item will be moved to the December 17th Legislative Agenda for
approval.
3.
2010 – 2011 Capital Projects Proposal for Approval
The 2010-2011 capital projects were reviewed. Bids will be prepared for the
following projects:
Penncrest:
• Gym bleacher replacement
• Replace master clock/intercom system
• Library rooftop HVAC unit
• Gym ventilation fans
• Roof valley replacement
Indian Lane Elementary School:
• Replace Music area AC unit
• Replace stairwell/stairs flooring
• Exterior window/façade sealing and caulking
• Wrap gym duct work
Media Elementary School District
• Replace master clock/intercom system
Rose Tree Elementary School District
• Roofing at stairwell
Education Center
• Elevator upgrade
• Replace HVAC in HR Department
• HVAC in server room
Glenwood Elementary
• Replace master clock/intercom system
• Gym siding replacement
• Roof Replacements
Action: Discussion
4.
Change Orders
a. Glenwood Phase II – L J Paolella Change Order #002 in the amount of
$550.00 for the supply and installation of new door hardware for ADA
entrance door.
b. Glenwood Phase II – Nickle Electrical Change Order #1 in the amount of
$1,244.00 for providing electric power to ADA entrance door.
Action: This item will be moved to the December 17th Legislative Agenda for
approval.
Public Comment:
A resident of Park Place presented photos of the storage shed at Springton Lake Middle
School, which is located next to his property. The roof is in need of repair. Dennis
Cinni will get three quotes for the repair.
Action: Discussion
The next Operations Committee meeting will be on January 12, 2010, at 8:00 PM.
EXCELLENCE
TODAY
FOR TOMORROW
Denise C. Kerr, Ed.D.
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
Denise C. Kerr, Ed.D., Superintendent
From:
Anne D. Callahan, Director of Human Resources
Date:
December 8, 2009
Subject:
Minutes of the Personnel Committee Meeting – December 1, 2009
Board Members in attendance: W. O’Donnell, J. Pettit, P. Barry, J. Hanna, N.
Fronduti, V. Barbato, N. Mackrides, Chair.
Also in attendance: A. Callahan
I.
Items for Legislative Meeting – Anne Callahan
The committee reviewed the items to be considered for placement on the
agenda of the Legislative Meeting of the Board of School Directors on
December 17, 2009. There were some additions pointed out that had not
been included on the original agenda posted on the website on November
25th. The committee requested that the revised list of items be placed on the
website on Wednesday, December 2nd.
Action: All items will be placed on the agenda of the Legislative Meeting of
the Board of School Directors on December 17, 2009, for a vote of the full
board.
II.
Policy #126, Class Size/Faculty Staffing
The committee reviewed the policy which was approved on August 22, 2002.
The administration explained that they have not been adhering strictly to the
guidelines because the Board had decided to try to reduce class sizes over
the last several years if it could be done without increasing current staff. As a
result, our current class sizes are somewhat lower than called for in the
guidelines. The administration was directed to prepare information for the
committee that would reflect staffing numbers if the policy were to be strictly
adhered to.
Action: The administration will prepare numbers and gather additional
information for presentation to the committee at the Personnel Committee
Meeting in January.
III.
Contract for Speech Therapist
Mrs. Callahan informed the committee that we have been unable to find a
certified speech therapist to fill an interim substitute position created by a
maternity leave. As a result we will be contracting out for these services,
three days a week with a private practitioner and one day a week through an
agency. Both therapists are PA certified. Solicitor Tom Kelly is preparing a
contract for the private practitioner and will review the contract from the
agency.
Action: Both contracts will be brought before the full board for a vote at the
legislative meeting on December 17, 2009.
IV.
Executive Session
An executive session was held to discuss matters of personnel.
The next meeting of the Personnel Committee will be held on January 5, 2010, at
7:00 PM in the Education Center Board Room.
Rose Tree Media School District
308 North Olive Street
Media, Pennsylvania 19063-2493
Telephone 610.627.6028
Fax 610.565-5317
www.rtmsd.org
Denise C. Kerr, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools
Linda Bluebello, Ed.D.
Director of Pupil Services
To:
Members of the Board of School Directors
Denise C. Kerr, Ed.D., Superintendent
From:
Linda Bluebello, Ed.D.
Date:
December 4, 2009
Subject:
December 1, 2009 Pupil Services Committee Meeting Minutes
Chairperson: Mrs. Nancy Fronduti
Board Members in Attendance: Bill O’Donnell, Jeff Pettit, Pete Barry, Nancy
Mackrides, Nancy Fronduti, John Hanna, Veronica Barbato
Others in Attendance: Dr. Linda Bluebello
CONTRACTS
Dr. Bluebello reviewed the Villanova University commencement ceremony contract.
The commencement ceremony will take place on Thursday, June 10, 2010, at 7:00 pm.
The estimated expense for use of the facility is $10,525, which does not include the use
of the handicapped lift. Dr. Bluebello will check with the Penncrest High School
administration to determine whether or not a lift is needed this year and what the rental
fee will be.
Action: Approval will be on the December 2009 Legislative Agenda.
Dr. Bluebello also shared information regarding the two substitutes needed for the
Speech & Language position at Rose Tree Elementary School and Springton Lake
Middle School. The District solicitor is currently reviewing contracts with outside
vendors for these services.
Action: Approval will be on the December 2009 Legislative Agenda.
OVERNIGHT TRIPS
Dr. Bluebello presented one overnight trip for review.
The Penncrest High School Choral trip to Pittsburgh, PA, will take place on February 20
– 23, 2010. The approximate cost to the district is $408, which covers substitute
teacher fees for 2 days.
Action: Approval will be on the December 2009 Legislative Agenda.
FACILITIES USE
A request was made to the Board to use Penncrest High School for H1N1 vaccine
distribution on Sunday, December 20, 2009. This vaccine distribution date is tentative
based on final confirmation from the County.
Action: Approval will be on the December 2009 Legislative Agenda.
POLICY
Dr. Bluebello discussed proposed revisions to the Student Records Policy and Plan.
The current Student Records Policy was reviewed and a sample Comprehensive
Student Records Plan was presented. Dr. Bluebello will seek advice from the District
solicitor on specific wording in the current Student Records Policy. Both documents will
be presented to the Board at the January 2010 Pupil Services Committee Meeting with
all language clarified.
The next meeting of the Pupil Services committee will be January 5, 2010, at 8:00 p.m.
at the Education Center.
OFFICE OF TEACHING AND LEARNING
TO:
Members of the Board of School Directors
Dr. Denise Kerr, Superintendent
FROM:
Dr. Angela Gilbert, Director of Teaching and Learning - Elementary
Dr. Steve Taylor, Director of Teaching and Learning - Secondary
DATE:
December 1, 2009
RE:
December 1, 2009, Teaching & Learning Committee Meeting Minutes
Chairperson: Mr. Jeff Pettit
Board Members in Attendance: Veronica Barbato, Peter Barry, Nancy Fronduti, John
Hanna, Nancy Mackrides, Bill O’Donnell, Jeff Pettit
RTMSD Personnel in Attendance:
Horan, Steve Taylor
Jo Dizon, Tracy Fritch, Angela Gilbert, Joanne
Parent: Maria Wanenchak
Contract for Allied Health Course at Penncrest
Dr. Taylor presented the annual renewal of the contract with DCCC to provide a course
in Allied Health entitled “Orientation to Health Care” at Penncrest High School during the
Spring 2010 semester. Under this contract, DCCC provides instruction to students, at
Penncrest, two times a week for two periods each and provides shadowing experiences
at Riddle Hospital two times a week. The contract sets an upper limit of 16 students, and
16 students are enrolled for this year’s program. Funds have been set aside from the
Penncrest building budget to cover the amount of the contract, $5,490. The Board gave
permission for the contract to appear on the December Legislative agenda for approval.
Update on Literacy Initiatives
Elementary Literacy Coach Tracy Fritch and Secondary Reading Supervisor Joanne
Horan updated the Board on literacy initiatives in progress at the elementary and
secondary levels. Mrs. Fritch’s presentation focused on two elementary literacy
initiatives, Literacy Lab Classrooms and Pilot of Revised Writing Curriculum. Literacy Lab
Classrooms are a “real-time” staff development experience for teachers, which will allow
them to share and learn from the strong teaching of reading that is happening in their
colleagues’ classrooms. Structured, focused visitations are arranged monthly in these
“lab classrooms,” allowing each teacher-observer to zero in on the implementation of a
particular reading “best practice” that he/she would like to see in action. This year, five
teachers are participating as Lab Teachers.
1
Eighteen (18) teachers formed the RTM Writing Curriculum Study Group and have been
working together since last fall. These teachers redefined our RTM Philosophy of
Teaching Writing and crafted revised writing units of study that adhere to this philosophy.
They have read and discussed the professional book, Study Driven, by Katie Wood Ray
and devised a Writer’s Bill of Rights consisting of the non-negotiables that will take place
in every RTM writing workshop, in grades one through five.
Mrs. Horan’s presentation highlighted several literacy initiatives underway at the
secondary level. At the middle school this year, new courses in decoding and fluency
have been added for students with significant reading difficulties. In the past, students
received instruction in decoding and fluency during their adapted language arts classes,
but instruction in these areas was leaving little time for other important skill development
in the adapted classes. A similar design will be adopted by the high school beginning in
the 2010-2011 school year. Mrs. Horan also praised the new Plugged Into Reading
series in use by the adapted language arts classes at Penncrest. This program uses
high-interest authentic fiction and nonfiction with audio support to engage teenage
readers. Finally, Mrs. Horan shared a chart that has been developed to show the
continuum of reading services available at Penncrest. This chart will be used by
administrators, counselors, teachers, and case managers for informational purposes and
for making decisions about placements for students with reading needs.
Proposal for Summer School Program at Springton Lake Middle School
Dr. Taylor and Ms. Dizon, who is working on a supervisory internship, presented a
proposal for the creation of a new Summer School pilot program for Springton Lake
students. The program supports the goal of promoting rigor at the middle school and the
goal of better implementing the existing Board policy (#215) on Promotion and Retention,
which requires students to complete course requirements, achieve standards, and
demonstrate proficiency in order to move ahead to the next grade. The practice at the
middle school has been not to require students to make up courses they fail, and the
creation of the pilot Summer School signals a change in that practice. Under the
proposed new program, students in grades 6 and 7 who fail one or more core subjects—
Language Arts, Math, Science, or Social Studies—for the year will be required to make
up these courses, either through attending Summer School or through giving up special
area subjects and/or World Language study in the next year so that the failed courses
can be retaken. Students in 8th grade who are at risk of failing will be assigned to the
alternative GATE program in order to help them achieve at higher levels before they
move on to high school. Summer School itself will consist of two 14-day sessions,
during each of which students may make up one course and receive help with study
skills, such as time management, test-taking, and organization. The 30 hours of
instruction parallel the amount of time required of high school students who make up
failed work during Summer School. In their presentation, Dr. Taylor and Ms. Dizon
touched on other aspects of the proposed program, including the curriculum, budget,
possible locations, absence policy, and communication plan. Funding for the summers
of 2010 and 2011 would come from Title I Stimulus funds. In subsequent years, funding
could come from either tuition paid by students or the regular Title I budget. The
program will be re-evaluated each year. After the presentation, the Board gave
permission for the proposal to appear as a resolution on the December Legislative
agenda.
2
Special Education Contract
Dr. Gilbert presented an agreement from Alternatives Unlimited, Inc. to provide an
alternative education program for students who present a clear threat to the safety and
welfare of other students and the school staff, who create an unsafe school environment,
or whose behavior materially interferes with the learning of other students. Dr. Gilbert
answered questions about student placements at such a facility. She explained that
there are a number of placements for students who need restrictive, specialized
educational programming. The school run by Alternatives Unlimited is designed to
address challenging behaviors that can not be addressed in a regular school setting.
Placement of a RTM student is usually precipitated by some action by the student that
interferes with learning and/or safety (i.e. a level four offense). When asked about Glenn
Mills, another placement option for troubled students, Dr. Gilbert explained that it is
specifically for court placed young men. Dr. Gilbert was able to find invoices for
Alternatives Unlimited dating back to the 2004 – 2005 school year, indicating that this
placement has been used over the years to address the needs of students with
significant behavioral issues. Currently, one special education student is attending
Delaware County Learning Academy, an Alternatives Unlimited facility. After the
presentation and discussion, the Board gave permission for the contract to appear as a
resolution on the December Legislative agenda.
ACTION: A resolution for a contract with Alternatives Unlimited, Inc. will be on the
December 17, 2009 Legislative Agenda.
Dr. Gilbert presented a contract for identified students’ educational services at an
Alternatives Unlimited facility during the 2009-2010 school year. Currently, one special
education student (BV) attends the Delaware County Learning Academy, an Alternatives
Unlimited facility. Services are assigned in accordance to students’ approved academic
plan or IEP. The cost is $125.00 per special education student per day and $105.00 per
alternative student per day. The district will be responsible for transportation and if
applicable, text books that will allow the contractor to follow the district’s curriculum.
3
IX.
New Business
A.
Personnel
1.
Terminations
a.
Professional - None
b.
Non-Instructional
1.
2.
John Pisano, Substitute Bus Driver, resignation
effective November 17, 2009.
Nominations
a.
Professional
1.
Recommend Board approval for the following
personnel to serve as Homebound Instructors for the
2009-2010 school year at the rate of $44.00 per hour:
Samantha Abelson
Elizabeth Battista
Tiffany Bendistis
Marie Castellan
Julie Denton
Josephine Dizon
Thomas Durant
Vince Eppolito
Crystal Grace Green
Sean Hobdell
Jason Lazarow
Theresa Long
Michael Ludwig
Elizabeth Thompson
2.
IX. New Business
Bridget Mason
Donna Montich
Mark Paikoff
Heather Reed
Debbie Schnaars
Robert Simpson
Jeremy Smith
Ronni Sowers
Jodi Strevig
Sharon Sweeney
Mark Williams
Michele Woodward
Amanda Morris
Mark Nixon, Social Studies Teacher, effective
February 1, 2010 at the annual salary of $44,202*,
Bachelor’s Degree/Step 1, to be pro-rated for the
second semester. Mr. Nixon has been serving as a
Long Term Substitute during the first semester.
He received his Bachelor’s Degree from Messiah
College. Mr. Nixon is assigned to Springton Lake
Middle School replacing Maureen Auerbach who
has resigned.
1
12/17/09
IX.
New Business
A.
Personnel
2.
Nominations
a.
Professional
3.
Laura Gray, Long Term Substitute Spanish
Teacher, effective December 9, 2009 at the annual
salary of $44,202*, Bachelor’s Degree/Step 1 to be
pro-rated. Ms. Gray received her Bachelor’s
Degree from Luther College in Iowa. She comes to
us from Chichester School District where she
served as a Spanish Teacher last school year and
West DeMoines School District where she served
as a Spanish Teacher for two years. She is
assigned to Penncrest High School replacing
Christina Penning who will be on leave.
*Salary is reported at the 2008-2009 rate and is subject to
change with the completion of RTMEA negotiations.
4.
Elizabeth Battista, Co-Director Summer School
2010, at the annual salary of $5,000.00.
5.
Josephine Dizon, Co-Director Summer School
2010, at the annual salary of $5,000.00.
6.
Recommend Board approval for the following
Penncrest Personnel to serve as Night School
Teachers for the 2009-2010 school year at the rate
of $40 per hour:
Amy Tricome
b.
IX. New Business
Mark Williams
Non-Instructional
1.
Dawn McMenamin, Substitute Bus Aide, effective
October 21, 2009, at the rate of $13.34 per hour.
2.
Amanda Sessa, Personal Instructional Assistant,
Support Staff II, effective December 2, 2009 at the
rate of $14.49 per hour. Ms. Sessa is assigned to
Media Elementary replacing Emily Malone who
resigned. NOTE: Ms. Sessa is being hired pending
completion of her pre-employment paperwork.
2
12/17/09
IX.
New Business
A.
Personnel
2.
Nominations
b.
IX. New Business
Non-Instructional
3.
Amy McKernan, Substitute Cafeteria Worker, effective
December 18, 2009 at the rate of $10.04. NOTE: Ms.
McKernan is being hired pending completion of her
pre-employment paperwork.
4.
Jade Fortune, Cafeteria Trainee, effective December
18, 2009 at the rate of $10.55 per hour. Ms. Fortune
is assigned to Penncrest High School replacing
Amber Gibson who was reassigned. NOTE: Ms.
Fortune is being hired pending completion of her preemployment paperwork.
5.
Ramona Walsh, Substitute Cafeteria Worker, effective
December 18, 2009 at the rate of $10.04 per hour.
NOTE: Ms. Walsh is being hired pending completion
of her pre-employment paperwork.
6.
Peter Fitzsimmons, Substitute Bus Driver, effective
December 4, 2009 at the rate of $20.29 per hour.
NOTE: Mr. Fitzsimmons is being hired pending
completion of his pre-employment paperwork.
7.
Jane Battaglia, Technology Assistant I, effective
January 4, 2010 at the annual salary of $32,418.66.
Ms. Battaglia is assigned to Media Elementary
replacing Candy Dougherty who resigned. NOTE:
Ms. Battaglia is being hired pending completion of
her pre-employment paperwork.
8.
Leigh Raup, Substitute Receptionist, effective
December 17, 2009 at the rate of $15.85 per hour.
Ms. Raup is assigned to the Education Center.
NOTE: Ms. Raup is being hired pending
completion of her pre-employment paperwork.
3
12/17/09
IX.
New Business
A.
Personnel
3.
General
a.
b.
Unpaid Leave of Absence
1.
Amy Zeigler, Support Staff II, Springton Lake Middle
School, requests an unpaid leave of absence
commencing January 11, 2010 and terminating April
23, 2010.
2.
Laura Mandia, Glenwood Elementary, requests an
unpaid leave of absence commencing November
30, 2009 and terminating June 30, 2010.
3.
Deanna Dachiu, Penncrest High School, requests
an unpaid leave of absence commencing
November 30, 2009 and terminating June 30, 2010.
Salary Change
1.
Recommend Board approval of the following cafeteria
pay rates, effective July 1, 2009, which were
incorrectly reported on the June Board:
Dawn Alonso
Maureen Dooner
Jacqueline Grossi
Louise Lorenz
Alisha Moreland
Carol Neill
Sherry Voorhees
c.
Supplemental Contracts
1.
IX. New Business
$11.85 per hour
$11.85 per hour
$11.85 per hour
$19.97 per hour
$11.85 per hour
$11.85 per hour
$11.85 per hour
Megan Snyder, Springton Lake Middle School, New
Teacher Mentor for the 2009-2010 school year at the
annual salary of $1,050.00.
4
12/17/09
IX.
New Business
A.
Personnel
3.
General
c.
Supplemental Contracts
2.
Recommend approval of the following Penncrest
personnel to serve as Event Chaperones for the
2009-2010 school year at the rate of $55.00 per
event:
James Beatty
Robert Simpson
IX. New Business
William Harmon
Kristen Maze
3.
Lovinda Weaver, New Teacher Mentor for the
2009-2010 school year, effective November 30,
2009 at the annual salary of $726.30.
4.
Diane McElhenney, (.5) New Teacher Mentor for
the first semester of the 2009-2010 school year at
the annual salary of $525.00.
5.
Paul Norris, Head Boys Varsity Soccer Coach for
the 2010-2011 school year at the annual salary of
$6,435.00.
6.
Jennifer Blythe, Middle School Cheerleading
Coach for the 2009-2010 school year, at the rate of
$20.83 per hour.
7.
Debbie Tyson, Event Chaperone, Penncrest High
School at the rate of $18.33 per hour.
5
12/17/09
IX.
New Business
A.
Personnel
3.
General
d.
Other
1.
Recommend Board approve the following net
share amounts to be distributed among food
service workers for the 2008-2009 school year:
ALONSO, DAWN
BEVERLY, JAYNE
BOUDAZIN, ISABELLE
CASEY, LISA
CLEMENTS, JENNIFER
DAWSON, NICOLE
DOONER, MAUREEN
DUNCAN,CHRISTINE
ETTIEN, ELISA
FRISOLI, MICHELE
GIDUCK, JUDITH
GRASTY, MARY
GROSSI, JACKY
JONES, JENNIFER
LOMAS, CHRISTINA
e.
$1,169
$1,140
$414
$777
$1,440
$917
$1,115
$1,117
$2,095
$1,040
$937
$1,118
$1,150
$1,048
$1,164
LORENZ, LOUISE
MCHUGH, NANCY
MORELAND, ALISHA
NEIL, CAROL
NETWALL, LAURA
OTTOLENGHI, ANNA
PEDRICK, ANDREA
PHIPPS, CYNTHIA
SIMPSON,KATHLEEN
SWANTEK, DIANE
TYSON, DEBRA
VAN LEER,
Q
VENTURA,
STEPHANIE
VOORHEES, SHERRY
YACHETTI, LOIS
$2,106
$1,293
$1,093
$1,109
$2,073
$1,130
$1,310
$1,294
$1,251
$1,380
$2,107
$1,247
$1,099
$1,117
$1,247
Student Expulsion
1.
Student #21746
Resolve, that student #21730 be removed to an
alternative school placement for the remainder of the
2009-2010 school year and the 2010-2011 school
year. Subject to the student’s performance at the
alternative school of placement, the student may be
eligible to apply for re-admittance to the school district
for the start of the 2011-2012 school year, subject to
School District approval, pursuant to the waiver of the
Due Process Hearing singed by student’s parents.
IX. New Business
6
12/17/09
IX.
New Business
A.
Personnel
3.
General
e.
Student Expulsion
2.
Student #50981
Resolve, that student #50981 be removed to an
alternative school placement for the duration of the
2009-2010 school year and the first semester of the
2010-2011 school year. Subject to the student’s
performance at the alternative school of placement,
the student may be eligible to apply for re-admittance
to the school district for the start of the 2010-2011
school year, subject to School District approval,
pursuant to the waiver of the Due Process Hearing
signed by student’s parents.
B.
Overnight Trips
1.
Penncrest High School Chorus – Pittsburgh, PA
Resolve, that the Board approve the overnight trip to Pittsburgh,
PA, for the Penncrest High School Chorus on February 20 – 23,
2010.
Background
The trip presents the opportunity for the Penncrest Choirs to share
their gift of music outside of our community, thereby also furthering
their reputation as a nationally recognized performing organization.
The approximate cost to the district is $408, which covers substitute
teacher fees for 2 days.
IX. New Business
7
12/17/09
APPENDIX X
X.
Finance
A.
Purchasing
1.
B.
Bid Awards – None
.
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 10-08 Fund 10 General Fund
FROM:
AMOUNT:
Instructional Staff Development - Professional
Education Services
$2,500.00
TO:
AMOUNT:
Instructional Staff Development – Supplies
$2,500.00
RATIONALE: Transfer needed to pay for Induction program.
X. Finance
1
12/17/09
APPENDIX X
X.
Finance
B.
General
1.
Budgetary Transfers (cont’d)
FY 10-09 Fund 10 General Fund
FROM:
AMOUNT:
TO:
AMOUNT:
School Sponsored Student ActivitiesSupplies
$1,560.00
School Sponsored Student Activities –
Rentals
$1,560.00
RATIONALE: Transfer needed for table and chair
rental for 6th grade Thanksgiving
Luncheon and 8th grade recognition ceremony.
FY 10-10 Fund 10 General Fund
FROM:
AMOUNT:
Regular Instruction- Supplies
$2,100.00
TO:
Regular Instruction – Replacement
Equipment
$2,100.00
AMOUNT:
RATIONALE: Transfer needed to purchase
replacement gym mats.
Background
This was discussed at the December 8, 2009 Finance
Committee Meeting.
X. Finance
2
12/17/09
APPENDIX X
X.
Finance
B.
General
2.
DCIU - Disruptive Youth Grant –
Delaware County Detention Center (Attachment)
Resolve, that the Board approve the addendum to the
agreement between the Rose Tree Media School District
and the Delaware County IU for education services at the
Delaware County Juvenile Detention center for the 20092010 school year.
Background
This was discussed at the December 8, 2009 Finance
Committee Meeting.
3.
G. D. Houtman & Son Proposal
Resolve, that the Board accept the proposal from G.D.
Houtman & Son., Inc. not to exceed $6,695 for Slope
Stabilization of Penn Field #3.
Background
This was discussed at the December 8, 2009 Operations
Committee Meeting.
X. Finance
3
12/17/09
APPENDIX X
X.
Finance
B.
General
4.
Change Orders
Change Orders are acted upon in accordance with
Resolution 1997-98 – 124, as approved by the School Board
of Directors on April 23, 1998.
Resolve, the School Board approve the following change
orders:
a.
Glenwood Phase II – L J Paolella Change Order #002
in the amount of $550.00 for the supply and
installation of new door hardware for ADA entrance
door.
b.
Glenwood Phase II – Nickle Electrical Change Order
#1 in the amount of $1,244.00 for providing electric
power to ADA entrance door.
Background
This was discussed at the December 8, 2009
Operations Committee Meeting.
X. Finance
4
12/17/09
APPENDIX X
X.
Finance
B.
General
5.
DCCC – Allied Health
Resolve, that the Board approve a contract with Delaware
County Community College to conduct one three-credit
course in Allied Health entitled “Orientation to Health Care”
at Penncrest High School for the period January 11, 2010
through May 9, 2010. The course is designed for between
10 and 16 Penncrest High School students at a maximum
cost of $5,490, with textbooks being billed separately, if
needed.
Background
This course, which operates in conjunction with Riddle
Memorial Hospital, provides students an opportunity to
investigate the health care field. It was discussed at the
December 1, 2009 Teaching & Learning Committee meeting.
6.
Summer School
Resolve, that the Board approve the creation of a Summer
School program for Springton Lake students who fail one or
more core subjects for the year. Under the new program,
students in grades 6 and 7 who fail one or more core
subjects—Language Arts, Math, Science, or Social
Studies—for the year will be required to make up these
courses, either through attending Summer School or through
giving up special area subjects and/or World Language
study in the next year so that the failed courses can be
retaken. Students in 8th grade who are at risk of failing will
be assigned to the alternative GATE program in order to
help them achieve at higher levels before they move on to
high school.
X. Finance
5
12/17/09
APPENDIX X
X.
Finance
B.
General
6.
Summer School (cont’d)
Background
The creation of a Summer School program for students who
fail one or more courses for the year supports the goal of
increased rigor at the middle school and better implements
Board Policy #215 on Promotion and Retention. The practice
at the middle school has been not to require students to
make up courses they fail. Funding for the summers of 2010
and 2011 will derive from Title I Stimulus funds; no district
funds will be expended. This program was discussed at the
December 1, 2009 Teaching & Learning Committee meeting.
7.
Contract with Alternatives Unlimited, Inc.
Resolve, that the Board approve a contract for identified
students to receive educational services through Alternatives
Unlimited, Inc. during the 2009- 2010 school year. The cost is
$125.00 per special education student per day and $105.00 per
alternative student per day. The district will be responsible for
transportation and if applicable, text books that will allow the
contractor to follow the district’s curriculum.
Background
Dr. Gilbert presented this contract at the Teaching and Learning
Committee meeting on December 1, 2009. The aforementioned
educational services are required to meet the needs of students
who need an alternative placement. Alternatives Unlimited, Inc.
provides an educational program for students who present a clear
threat to the safety and
welfare of other students and the
school staff, who create an unsafe school environment, or whose
behavior materially interferes with the learning of other students.
Since 1997, Alternatives Unlimited (AU) has partnered with urban
and suburban school districts throughout the United States to
provide high quality, cost-effective educational opportunities to the
most challenging students. Schools now serve diverse
populations in ten states. The Pennsylvania site is called the
Delaware County Learning Academy.
X. Finance
6
12/17/09
APPENDIX X
X.
Finance
B.
General
8.
Villanova University
Resolve, that the Board approve the contract between
Villanova University and the Rose Tree Media School
District.
Background
The commencement ceremony will take place at Villanova
University on Thursday, June 10, 2010, at 7:00 p.m. The
estimated expense for use of the facility is $10,525. The
approximate cost of the handicapped lift rental will be $1,500
additional.
9.
Speech Pathology Consultants, Inc.
Resolve, that the Board approve the contract between
Speech Pathology Consultants, Inc., and the Rose Tree
Media School District.
Background
Speech Pathology Consultants, Inc., will provide the services
of a certified Speech & Language therapist to provide
services one day per week at Rose Tree Elementary and
Springton Lake Middle Schools. The therapist is replacing
one of our current Speech & Language therapists who will
be on medical leave. The cost to the district is $74 per hour
for speech & language therapy.
10.
Speech & Language Therapy Agreement
Resolve, that the Board approve the agreement between
Stephanie Gauzza and the Rose Tree Media School District.
Background
Stephanie Gauzza will provide three days of Speech &
Language therapy to Rose Tree Elementary and Springton
Lake Middle School students. Ms. Gauzza is replacing one
of our current Speech & Language therapists who will be on
medical leave. The cost to the district is $65 per hour for
speech & language therapy.
X. Finance
7
12/17/09