ROSE TREE MEDIA SCHOOL DISTRICT
BOARD OF SCHOOL DIRECTORS
Informational Session
November 29, 2007
AGENDA
I.
Committee Highlights & Liason Reports
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
F.
G.
H.
Student Liaison Reports
Teaching & Learning
Finance
Operations
Personnel
Pupil Services
Technology
Liaison Reports
II.
Building Update - Principals
III.
Adjournment
7:30 p.m.
ROSE TREE MEDIA SCHOOL DISTRICT
BOARD OF SCHOOL DIRECTORS
Legislative Meeting
November 29, 2007
8:00 p.m.
AGENDA
I.
Call to Order
II.
Approval of Minutes
A.
III.
C.
D.
Eagle Scout Awards: David Mayer and Matthew Pesce
PSBA – Certificate of Appreciation – Veronica Barbato, William Campbell,
Nancy Mackrides, and Jeffrey Pettit,
Stacey Benson
William Campbell
Technology Tools: Infusing the InterWrite Pad in Instruction
Reports
A.
B.
C.
D.
VI.
Legislative Meeting of October 25, 2007
Educational Presentation
A.
V.
Pledge of Allegiance
Presentations and Awards
A.
B.
IV.
Roll Call
School Reports
Superintendent’s Report
Solicitor’s Report
President’s Report
Scheduled Presentations (Limited to Five Minutes Each)
A.
B.
RTMEA
Healthy Communities Initiative
VII.
Unscheduled Presentations (Limited to Three Minutes Each)
A.
VIII.
Rose Tree Media Residents
Old Business
A.
Policies
1.
IX.
New Business
A.
B.
C.
X.
Investment of District Funds – Policy #609 – Second Reading and
Approval – See Attachment A
Personnel
1.
Terminations
a.
Professional
b.
Non-Instructional
2.
Nominations
a.
Professional
b.
Non-Instructional
3.
General
a.
Unpaid Leave of Absence
b.
Degree Advancement
c.
Rescind Supplemental Contracts
d.
Supplemental Contracts – See Attachment B & C
e.
Salary Change
f.
Other – See Attachment D
Overnight Trips
1.
Penncrest High School Cheerleaders to Orlando, Florida
2.
Penncrest Concert Choir to Lake George and Queensbury, New
York
3.
Penncrest Students to Washington, DC
4.
Penncrest High School Student Leadership to Stroudsburg, PA
Policies
1.
Policy #918 Sponsorships and Partnerships – First Read
See Attachment E
Finance
A.
B.
Purchasing
1.
None
General
1.
Capital Projects – SLMS Project Debt Issuance –
See Attachment F
2.
Architerra Proposal – Smedley Tract – See Attachment G
3.
Media Youth Wrestling Program – Sunday Building Use
4.
Change Orders
5.
Kate Phelan Williams – Dental Hygienist
C.
D.
XI.
Financials for October 2007
Bill lists for October 2007
Adjournment
ANNOUNCEMENT
There will be an executive session of the School Board for matters of personnel
at 6:30 p.m. prior to the Informational Session of December 20, 2007, at
Springton Lake Middle School. The Legislative meetings are recorded on tape.
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
Sharon A. Learn
Board Secretary
Denise C. Kerr, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools
To:
From:
Date:
Subject:
Members of the Board of School Directors
Denise C. Kerr, Ed.D., Superintendent
Sharon A. Learn, Board Secretary
October 26, 2007
Minutes of the October 25, 2007 Legislative Meeting
I. Call to Order
Roll Call
Board Members in Attendance:
Nancy Mackrides, Board President
Veronica Barbato
Nancy Fronduti
Stacey Benson
Linda Fox
Jeffrey Pettit
William Campbell
William Montgomery
Absent: Willliam O’Donnell
Pledge of Allegiance
Student Board Members:
Rachel Davis
Jerry Thompson
Mike Pesce
Also in attendance:
Denise Kerr, Super. of Schools
Meg Barney, R&D Specialist
Baldino, Ron, Sup. Maint & Oper.
Bill Bennett, Principal, ILE
Eric Bucci, Ass’t. Principal, PCHS
Valerie Burnett, Director Pupil Services
Anne Callahan, Dir. of Human Resources
Bernadette Dacanay, Home & School Visit.
Karen Daugherty, Principal, RTE
Joe DiAntonio, Phys Ed. Supervisor
William Dougherty, Principal, GWE
Susan Evans, Ass’t Principal, PCHS
Angela Gilbert, Teaching & Learning Elem.
Ron Harris, Network Specialist
Ralph Harrison, Asst. Principal PHS
Joanne Horan, Asst. Principal SLMS
1
Anthony Jackowski, Ass’t. Principal SLMS
Judy Jalbert, Psychologist
Mack Johnson, Management Sys. Admin
Bonnie Kinsler, Acting Transp. Dir.
Maria Kotch, Principal, Rose Tree Elem.
Sharon Learn, Board Secretary
Patti Linden, Dir. of Tech. & Infor.
Kim McCann, Info. Tech. Spec.
Danielle Penza, Accountant
Gregg Richard, Principal, PCHS
Roxanne Schupp, Supev. Business Operations
Sandra Shacklady White, Supv. Spec.
Educ. Pupil Services
Steve Taylor, Dir. Teaching & Learning
Secondary Educ.
Thomas Kelly, Solicitor
10/25/07
The Legislative Meeting of the Board of School Directors of the Rose Tree Media School
District was held on Thursday, October 25, 2007, at Springton Lake Middle School. The
meeting was called to order at 8:00 p.m. by President Mackrides.
II.
Approval of Minutes
A.
Legislative Meeting Minutes of September 27, 2007
Mrs. Fox moved and Mrs. Fronduti seconded a motion to adopt the following
resolution:
RESOLUTION: 2007-2008 - 17
Resolve, that the Board approve the Legislative Meeting Minutes of
September 27, 2007.
The aforementioned resolution was declared adopted by the Chair, the vote
being:
AYES:
NAYS:
III.
Nancy Mackrides, Veronica Barbato, Nancy Fronduti,
Linda Fox, Jeffrey Pettit, William Campbell,
William Montgomery, Stacey Benson
None
Presentations and Awards
A.
Professional Registration – Danielle Penza
Mrs. Fronduti moved and Mr. Campbell seconded a motion to adopt the
following resolution:
RESOLUTION: 2007-2008 – 18
Resolve, that the Board recognize Danielle Penza, Treasurer of the Rose
Tree Media School District, who has recently been granted status as a
Pennsylvania Registered School Business Official by the Pennsylvania
Association of School Business Officials. Requirements for initial registration
were met and a professional commitment was made to keep management
and technical skills updated.
The aforementioned resolution was declared adopted by the Chair, the vote
being:
AYES:
NAYS:
Nancy Mackrides, Veronica Barbato, Nancy Fronduti,
Linda Fox, Jeffrey Pettit, William Campbell,
William Montgomery, Stacey Benson
None
2
10/25/07
III.
Presentations and Awards
B.
Sharon Learn – Resignation
Mrs. Barbato moved and Mrs. Fox seconded a motion to adopt the
following resolution:
RESOLUTION: 2007-2008 – 19
Resolve, that the Board recognize Sharon Learn for her dedicated service
to the Rose Tree Media School District. Sharon is resigning from Rose
Tree Media after serving for 19 years as the Chief Operations Officer. We
wish Sharon much success in her future endeavors.
The aforementioned resolution was declared adopted by the Chair, the
vote being:
AYES:
NAYS:
IV.
Educational Presentation
A.
V.
C.
D.
School Reports – In Official Legislative Minutes of October 25, 2007
Superintendent’s Report - In Official Legislative Minutes of
October 25, 2007
Solicitor’s Report - In Official Legislative Minutes of October 25, 2007
President’s Report - In Official Legislative Minutes of October 25, 2007
Scheduled Presentations (Limited to Five Minutes Each)
A.
B.
VII.
Fourth and Fifth Grade Accelerated Math Program – Media Elementary
School
Reports
A.
B.
VI.
Nancy Mackrides, Veronica Barbato, Nancy Fronduti,
Linda Fox, Jeffrey Pettit, William Campbell,
William Montgomery, Stacey Benson
None
RTMEA – Sandy Steiger, President RTMEA
Healthy Communities Initiative – Dana Riker
Unscheduled Presentations (Limited to three minutes each)
A.
Rose Tree Media Residents
3
10/25/07
VIII.
Old Business
A.
Procurement Card Policy #625
Mr. Pettit moved and Mrs. Barbato seconded a motion to adopt the following
resolution:
RESOLUTION: 2007-2008 – 20
Resolve, that the Board adopt Policy #625 Procurement Card. This
is the second reading of The Procurement Card Policy #625.
(See Attachment A in Official Legislative Minutes of October 25, 2007.
The aforementioned resolution was declared adopted by the Chair, the vote
being:
AYES:
NAYS:
Nancy Mackrides, Veronica Barbato, Nancy Fronduti,
Linda Fox, Jeffrey Pettit, William Campbell,
William Montgomery, Stacey Benson
None
4
10/25/07
IX.
New Business
A.
Personnel
Mrs. Barbato moved and Mrs. Fronduti seconded a motion to adopt the
following resolution:
RESOLUTION: 2007-2008 – 21
Resolve, that the Board approve the following Personnel section:
1.
2.
Terminations
a.
Professional
b.
Non-Instructional
1.
Carol Hoyt, Bus Driver, resignation effective October 31,
2007.
2.
Judy Parent, Bus Aide, resignation effective September
24, 2007.
3.
Kathy Archer, Cafeteria Worker, resignation effective
October 1, 2007.
4.
Tawana Reason, Cafeteria Worker, termination, effective
October 1, 2007.
Nominations
a.
Professional
1.
b.
Karen Kraycik, Long Term Substitute Teacher, effective
October 22, 2007 at an annual salary of $42,998 to be
pro-rated for the first semester. She received her
Bachelor’s Degree from Temple University. Ms. Kraycik
is assigned to Media Elementary replacing Santina
Loveland-Smith who is on leave for the first semester.
Non-Instructional
1.
Amber Gibson, Substitute Cafeteria Worker, effective
October 26, 2007 at the rate of $9.50 per hour. Ms.
Gibson is assigned to Penncrest High School. NOTE:
Ms. Gibson is being hired pending completion of her preemployment paperwork.
5
10/25/07
A.
Personnel
2.
Nominations
b.
Non-Instructional
2.
William Harmon II, Support Staff II, effective October 4,
2007 at the rate of $13.06 per hour. Mr. Harmon currently
serves as a (.3) Math Teacher. He is assigned to
Springton Lake Middle School.
3.
Brian Roberson, Substitute Custodian, effective October
8, 2007 at the rate of $12.00 per hour. Mr. Roberson is
assigned to Penncrest High School.
4.
Colleen Knowles, Substitute Cafeteria Worker, effective
October 26, 2007 at the rate of $9.50 per hour. NOTE:
Ms. Knowles is being hired pending completion of her
pre-employment paperwork.
5.
Janice Treen, Custodian, effective October 26, 2007 at
the rate of $13.14 per hour. Ms. Treen is assigned to
Glenwood Elementary replacing Diane Burgess who
resigned. NOTE: Ms. Treen is being hired pending
completion of her pre-employment paperwork.
7.
Evan O’Neill, Support Staff I, Computer Lab Aide,
effective September 26, 2007 at the rate of $11.64 per
hour. Mr. O’Neill is assigned to Penncrest High School
replacing Charron Verica who has been reassigned.
8.
Tammy Baillis, Cafeteria Worker, effective October 11,
2007 at the rate of $10.00 per hour. Ms. Baillis is
assigned to Springton Lake Middle School. NOTE: Ms.
Baillis is being hire pending completion of her preemployment paperwork.
6
10/25/07
A.
Personnel
3.
General
a.
b.
Classification Change
1.
Bethany Zeleznick, from Cafeteria Worker to Support
Staff I, effective October 1, 2007 at the rate of $11.64 per
hour. Ms. Zeleznick is assigned to Penncrest High
School replacing Rita Tyson who resigned.
2.
Linda Rowley, from Medical Arts Liason to Support Staff I
effective October 8, 2007 at the rate of $11.64 per hour.
Ms. Rowley is assigned to Penncrest High School
replacing Margaret Sprout who resigned.
3.
Kelli Trusty from Substitute Cafeteria Aide to Part-Time
Cafeteria Aide effective October 8, 2007 at the rate of
$10.00 per hour. Ms. Trusty is assigned to Indian Lane
Elementary.
4.
Sheila Hollinger from Substitute Bus Driver to Regular
Full Time Driver effective October 15, 2007.
Sabbatical Leave
1.
c.
Jana Maxwell, Elementary Teacher, Media Elementary
requests Sabbatical Leave for the second semester
effective January 28, 2008 and terminating June 30,
2008.
Unpaid Leave of Absence
1.
Jennifer Simmons requests an unpaid leave of absence
for the purpose of child rearing commencing August 27,
2007 and terminating January 25, 2008.
2.
Kristine Acker requests an unpaid leave of absence for
the purpose of child rearing commencing April 16, 2008
and terminating June 30, 2008.
3.
Santina Loveland-Smith requests an unpaid leave of
absence for the purpose of child rearing commencing
November 20, 2007 and terminating January 28, 2008.
7
10/25/07
A.
Personnel
3.
General
d.
Degree Advancement
1.
Recommend the Board approve the following personnel
for Degree Advancement and adjust their salaries
accordingly effective August 27, 2007:
Gemma Deady
Paul Norris
Bridget Mason
Elizabeth McKelvey
Maureen Naylor
Kate Robinson
e.
Rescind Supplemental Contracts
1.
f.
Master’s/Step 4
MEQ/Step 9
Master’s+40/Step 6
Master’s+60/Step 15
Master’s+40/Step 8
Master’s/Step 5
Rescind appoint of Shawna Cliff as (.5) Homework Club
Sponsor for the 2007-2008 school year.
Supplemental Contracts
1.
Santina Loveland-Smith, Media Elementary (.5)
Technology Building Coordinator for the second
semester 2007-2008, at the annual salary of $1,350.00.
2.
Sue Williamson, Media Elementary (.5) Technology
Building Coordinator for the first semester 2007-2008, at
the annual salary of $1,350.00.
3.
Recommend Board approval for the following personnel
to serve as PSAT Review Session Teachers at the rate
of $75.00 per session:
Deanna Dachiu
Beth Matlock
4.
Christine Price
Sharon Smith
Recommend Board approval for the following personal to
serve as Event Chaperones at Penncrest High School at
the rate of $55.00 per event:
Lisa Blake
Kristen Maze
8
Amy Recupero
10/25/07
A.
Personnel
3.
General
f.
Supplemental Contracts
5.
Katherine White, 6th Grade Homework Club Sponsor for
the 2007-2008 school year at the annual salary of
$670.00.
6.
Ray Lavoie, Assistant Football Coach, Springton Lake
Middle School, at the annual salary of $2,278.00.
7.
Patricia Kinard, (.5) Drama Club Sponsor for the 20072008 school year at the annual salary of $402.00.
8.
Suzanne Yanchek, New Teacher Mentor for the 20072008 school year at the annual salary of $1,015.
9.
Jana Maxwell, Art Club Sponsor for the 2007-2008
school year at the annual salary of $450.00.
10.
Maureen Keeney, Cookie Club Sponsor for the first
semester of the 2007-2008 school year at the annual
salary of $402.00.
11.
Carin Newsome, 6th Grade Homework Sponsor for the
2007-2008 school year at the annual salary of $670.00
12.
Kevin Reilley, (.5) Saturday Detention Supervisor, at the
annual salary of $469.00.
13.
William Harmon, (.5) Saturday Detention Supervisor, at
the annual salary of $469.00.
14.
Jennifer Blythe, Girls 8th Grade Field Hockey Coach, at
the annual salary of $2,814.00.
9
10/25/07
A.
Personnel
3.
General
f.
Supplemental Contracts
15.
Recommend Board approval for the following personnel
to serve as Homebound Instructors for the 2007-2008
school year at the rate of $42.50 per hour:
S. Abelson
T. Durant
T. Long
D. Montich
S. Sweeney
K. Waler
M.Edelman
C. Koontz
K. Warren
g.
T. Bendistis
M. Hart
B. Mason
D. Schnaars
C. Taddeo
S. Wilson
M. Fisher
C. Lund
E. Coulter
A. Johnson
C. McGeehan
D. Storey
J. Wade
M. Woodward
C. Grassano
J. Williamson
Create New Position
1.
Recommend Board approve the creation of two new
positions, Chinese Club Sponsor at Springton Lake
Middle School and Penncrest High School with a
supplemental pay to be determined through a meet and
discuss with RTMEA and consistent with other similar
clubs.
10
10/25/07
A.
Personnel
3.
General
h.
Other
1.
Recommend Board approval of the Cafeteria Workers
pay rates for the 2007-2008 school year.
(See
Attachment B in Official Legislative Minutes of October
25, 2007.)
2.
Recommend Board approval of the Rose Tree Media
Secretaries and Educational Support Personnel
Association Sick Leave Bank. See Attachment C.
3.
Correction of hire date: Deana Storey, Long Term
Substitute Special Education Teacher, effective August
27, 2007 through September 11, 2007. Contract effective
September 12, 2007. Ms Storey is assigned to Springton
Lake Middle School.
The aforementioned resolution was declared adopted by the Chair, the
vote being:
AYES:
NAYS:
Nancy Mackrides, Veronica Barbato, Nancy Fronduti,
Linda Fox, Jeffrey Pettit, William Campbell,
William Montgomery, Stacey Benson
None
11
10/25/07
IX.
New Business
B.
Overnight Trips
1.
Ice Hockey Team – Toronto, Canada
Mr. Pettit moved and Mrs. Fronduti seconded a motion to adopt the
following resolution:
RESOLUTION: 2007-2008 – 22
Resolve, that the Board approve the Ice Hockey team overnight trip to
Toronto, Canada on December 5-7, 2007, for a tournament. The
student costs for the trip is $400 for travel and lodging.
The aforementioned resolution was declared adopted by the Chair, the
vote being:
AYES:
NAYS:
2.
3.
4.
Nancy Mackrides, Veronica Barbato, Nancy Fronduti,
Linda Fox, Jeffrey Pettit, William Montgomery,
Stacey Benson
William Campbell
Penncrest Wrestling Team – Solanco School District
Penncrest Wrestling Team – Easton, PA
Penncrest Future Business Leaders of America – State College, PA
Mrs. Fronduti moved and Mr. Pettit seconded a motion to adopt
the following resolution:
RESOLUTION: 2007-2008 – 23
2. Penncrest Wrestling Team – Solanco County School District
Resolve, that the Board approve the overnight trip to the Solanco
County School District on December 7-8, 2007.
3. Penncrest Wrestling Team – Easton, PA
Further resolve, that the Board approve the overnight trip to the Easton
Invitational Wrestling Tournament in Easton, PA. on January 4-5,
2008.
12
10/25/07
IX.
New Business
B.
Overnight Trips (continued)
4. Penncrest Future Business Leaders of America – State College, PA
Further resolve, that the Board approve the overnight trip to the Future
Business Leaders of America (FBLA) State Leadership Workshop in
State College, PA on October 21-22, 2007.
The aforementioned resolution was declared adopted by the Chair, the
vote being:
AYES:
NAYS:
C.
Nancy Mackrides, Veronica Barbato, Nancy Fronduti,
Linda Fox, Jeffrey Pettit, William Campbell,
William Montgomery, Stacey Benson
None
Policies
1.
Investment of District Funds – Policy #609 - First Reading
This is a first reading of the Investment of District Funds Policy
#609 and does not require a vote.
(See Attachment D in Official Legislative Minutes of October 25, 2007.)
13
10/25/07
D.
Addendum – Personnel
Mrs. Fronduti moved and Mrs. Barbato seconded a motion to adopt the
following resolution:
RESOLUTION: 2007-2008 – 24
Resolve, that the Board approve the following Personnel Addendum:
1.
Nominations
a.
Non-Instructional
1.
2.
Gail Boettcher, Board Secretary, effective November 1,
2007, at the rate of $27.05 per hour. This is in addition to
Mrs. Boettcher’s current position as Administrative
Assistant to the Superintendent.
General
a.
Classification Change
1.
b.
Maureen Reuther, .3 Physical Education Teacher to .4
Physical Education Teacher, effective October 29,2007.
Ms. Reuther is assigned to Penncrest High School.
Degree Advance
1.
Recommend the Board approve Robert Simpson for
Degree Advancement to Master’s Degree +40/Step 14
and adjust his salary accordingly effective August 27,
2007:
The aforementioned resolution was declared adopted by the Chair, the
vote being:
AYES:
NAYS:
Nancy Mackrides, Veronica Barbato, Nancy Fronduti,
Linda Fox, Jeffrey Pettit, William Campbell,
William Montgomery, Stacey Benson
None
14
10/25/07
X.
Finance
A.
B.
Purchasing - None
General
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
Capital Projects 2008 – Owner’s Representative – Attachment E
Business Office Transition Procedures
Change Orders
Dr. Robert F. Sing – Medical Services Agreement 2007-2008
Dr. Peter N. Christie – Medical Services Agreement 2007-2008
Kate Phelan Williams – Agreement Dental Hygiene 2007-2008
Ann Haslanger – Agreement Assistant Team Coordinator 2007-2008
Pathway School Contract – 2007-2008
Vanguard School Contract – 2007-2008
KenCrest Consultants Contract 2007-2008
Mrs. Fronduti moved and Mrs. Fox seconded a motion to adopt the
following resolution:
RESOLUTION: 2007-2008 – 25
1. Capital Projects 2008 – Owner’s Representative
Resolve, that the Board accept the Owner’s Representative
proposal dated September 24, 2007, prepared by Dennis Cini.
The scope of work is detailed in the attached document. The
cost is based on a time-spent fee not to exceed $95,652.
See Attachment E in Official Legislative Minutes of
October 25, 2007.
2. Business Office Transition Procedures
Further resolve, that the Board authorize Danielle Penza, Treasurer, as
a signatory along with the School Board President on all bank checks
and vouchers.
Further resolve, that the Board authorize Roxanne Schupp,
Supervisor of Business Operations, to review, approve and/or reject
school district requisitions and purchase orders in accordance with
school board policies. Requisitions and purchase orders in excess of
$500,000 will require a dual signature on the requisition by the
Superintendent of Schools.
.
15
10/25/07
.
X.
Finance
B.
General
3. Change Orders
Further resolve, that the Board approve the following change orders:
CO #001 – McGoldrick Electric Inc.
Penncrest High School Chemical Storage Room
Deduct for reinstallation of existing smoke
Detector in lieu of purchase of a new detector
CO #P1-G. Antonini Construction, Inc.
Rose Tree Elementary School Paving
Additional milling, stone base repair, and
asphalt binder.
G. Antonini Construction, Inc.
Indian Lane Elementary School
Deduct for school paving
($145.00)
$39,160.00
($5,000.00)
4. Dr. Robert F. Sing – Medical Services Agreement 2007-08
Further resolve, that the Board approve an agreement with
Dr. Robert F. Sing of Springfield Sports Emergency Medical
Corporation for medical services for $25,578.
5. Dr. Peter N. Christie – Medical Services Agreement 2007-08
Further resolve, that the Board approve an agreement with
Dr. Peter N. Christie for medical services of $9,366.82, $55 per bus
driver physical, and $20 for biannual Mantoux.
6. Kate Phelan Williams – Agreement Dental Hygiene 2007-08
Further resolve, that the Board approve an agreement with
Kate Phelan Williams for dental hygiene services for $2,000.
7. Ann Haslanger – Agreement Assistant Team Coordinator 2007-08
Further resolve, that the Board approve an agreement with
Ann Haslanger for Student Assistance Team Coordinator
for $37,193.
16
10/25/07
X.
Finance
B.
General
8. Pathway School Contract – 2007-08
Further resolve, that the Board approve a contract with the Pathway
School for the 2007-2008 school year for $28,379.
9. Vanguard School Contract – 2007-08
Further resolve, that the Board approve two contracts with the
Vanguard School for the 2007-2008 school year for $38,400 each.
10. KenCrest Consultants Contract 2007-08
Resolve, that the Board approve a contract with KenCrest
Consultants for the 2007-2008 school year for $92.00/ hour.
The aforementioned resolution was declared adopted by the Chair, the vote
being:
AYES:
NAYS:
Nancy Mackrides, Veronica Barbato, Nancy Fronduti,
Linda Fox, Jeffrey Pettit, William Campbell,
William Montgomery, Stacey Benson
None
17
10/25/07
C.
D.
Financials for September2007
Bill Lists for September 2007
Mrs. Fox moved and Mrs. Fronduti seconded a motion to adopt the following
resolution:
RESOLUTION: 2007-2008 – 26
Resolve, that the Board approve the following:
Financial Reports
September
September
September
September
2007
2007
2007
2007
Treasurers Reports
Investment Reports
Summary Expenditure Status Report
Revenue Status Report
Bill Lists
September
2007 General Fund Bill List
$ 1,906,250.92
September
2007 Imprest Fund Bill List
$
8,529.00
September
2007 Capital Fund Bill List
$
165,440.13
September
2007 1992 Construction Fund Bill List
$
3,060.00
September
2007 Future Funding 1993 Issue Bill List
$
4,153.25
September
2007 Bond Series 2003 Bill list
$
722.50
September
2007 Bond Series 2004 Bill List
$
63,289.25
September
2007 Activities/Special Revenue Fund
$
18,246.68
$ 2,169,691.73
The aforementioned resolution was declared adopted by the Chair, the
vote being:
AYES:
NAYS:
Nancy Mackrides, Veronica Barbato, Nancy Fronduti,
Linda Fox, Jeffrey Pettit, William Campbell, William Montgomery,
Stacey Benson
None
18
10/25/07
XI.
Adjournment
Mrs. Fronduti moved and Mrs. Fox seconded a motion to adopt the following
resolution:
RESOLUTION: 2007-2008 - 27
Resolve, 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:
Nancy Mackrides, Veronica Barbato, Nancy Fronduti,
Linda Fox, Jeffrey Pettit, William Campbell,
William Montgomery, Stacey Benson
None
__________________
Sharon A. Learn
Board Secretary
19
10/25/07
III.
Presentations and Awards
A.
Eagle Scouts: David Mayer and Matthew Pesce
Resolve, the Board present David Mayer and Matthew Pesce, the
Rose Tree Media Award for achieving Eagle Scout Rank
Background
David Mayer and Matthew Pesce, Penncrest High School students,
have completed the necessary requirements to achieve Eagle
Scout Rank.
B.
PSBA Recognition for Veronica Barbato, William Campbell, Nancy
Mackrides and Jeffrey Pettit
Resolve, the Board recognize Veronica Barbato and Nancy
Mackrides for 8 years of service, Jeffrey Pettit for 16 years of
service, and William Campbell for 20 years of service as School
Director.
Background
The Executive Board of the Pennsylvania School Boards
Association presents the Certificate of Appreciation in recognition of
the unique role of school board service and the long-term
contributions of individuals who bring their energy, talent and
values to the guidance of youth and public education in the
Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
C.
Stacey Benson – Former School Board Member
Resolve, the Board recognize Stacey Benson for her 4 years of
dedicated service as a Board of School Director for the Rose Tree
Media School District.
Background
Mrs. Benson served on the Act 1 Tax Study Committee and was
the Chairperson of the Personnel Committee.
III.
Presentations and Awards
D.
William Campbell – Former School Board Member
Resolve, the Board recognize William Campbell for his 20 years of
dedicated service as a Board of School Director for the Rose Tree
Media School District.
Background
Mr. Campbell was appointed to the Board in 1987. During his
tenure, Mr. Campbell served as President, Vice-President,
Chairman of the Personnel Committee and Chairman of the
Finance Committee.
EXCELLENCE
TODAY
FOR TOMORROW
SCHOOL REPORT’S – October 2007
GLENWOOD ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Library technician, Kathy Cook, participated in the Delaware County Book Review
Program held at Upper Darby High School. Publishers provide copies of brand new titles,
and librarians may keep those books they review. Mrs. Cook obtained nineteen recentlypublished titles for the Glenwood library, including non-fiction, novels, and picture books
valued at over $250.00! Kathy, along with other members of the RTM library staff,
attended the Access Pennsylvania annual fall training session held in Exton. The Access
PA database encompasses catalog holdings of over 3,000 school, public, and academic
libraries throughout the state, serving over 12 million residents. Our Access PA
membership includes POWER Library resources such as SIRS Discoverer, an awardwinning general reference resource for young researchers, and EBSCOHost, a
comprehensive periodicals and reference database. New this year is AccuNet/AP
Multimedia Archives which contains tens of thousands of historical images. As part of
the district-wide inservice, library technician Kathy Cook, along with the other RTM library
staff members, attended the workshop “Using Comics and Graphic Novels in Libraries
and Classrooms.” This program was provided by the Delaware County Library System
and featured presenter Stephen Weiner, a library director and pioneering advocate for the
inclusion of graphic (illustrated) novels in libraries and other educational settings.
, graphics and editorial photos for patrons to download for educational research use.
Early in November, the first graders in Mrs. Cocola’s class were treated to a special
presentation about fossils. Mr. Gordon, the parent of a first grader in Mrs. Cocola’s class,
is a geologist with a passion for paleontology. He brought many fossils to the classroom
for the students to examine, and answered wonderful questions about where they were
found and what clues they can give about the earth’s past. Interest ran high because the
first graders had recently taken a field trip to the Delaware Museum of Natural History
where they dug for fossil clues and learned about dinosaurs. Everyone in Mrs. Cocola’s
class is most grateful to Mr. Gordon for helping young students appreciate the fascinating
information that can be gleaned by studying fossils, rocks, and minerals.
Mr. G’s first grade classes will be discussing how clouds are formed and create an actual
cloud in a jar while his second grade classes will be identifying the three major types of
rocks and how they are formed. Mr. G’s fourth grade AGP classes will be researching and
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planning a family trip to the seven regions of Pennsylvania. They will be using Excel to
create a budget sheet and online resources to plan out their schedule while his fifth grade
AGP classes will be listening to a guest speaker, Tom Reeves, about ornithology and
different bird species.
Mr. Davies’s class was busy publishing stories during writing workshop. They are
creating the second of their classroom anthologies filled with stories by the students. The
class is also enjoying the use of our online program KidBiz. We read our headline of the
day every morning, and for one article each week the students read it and respond to it
online. They’ve discovered the feature that allows them to send Mr. Davies email, so we
are sending great comments and questions through cyberspace.
Fourth graders in Mr. Sharp’s art class have made an interdisciplinary connection with
their study of Pennsylvania in their social studies curriculum. In art class, students
learned about the Pennsylvania Germans, their simple and traditional lifestyle, and about
the art that they make. Students learned that frakturs are birth, death, and marriage
certificates that incorporate calligraphy or illuminated writing as well as motifs of flowers
and birds. For our project, student focused on the season in which their birthdays were
celebrated. We made a list of flowers, plants, fruits, vegetables, trees, weather, and
possibly holidays found in that season. Then, we folded a sheet of paper in half and
created a design that was symmetrical. We stained the sheet of paper with light brown
and yellow paint and colored in traditional colors found in PA German work – dark red,
green, ochre or gold, as well as navy blue.
In the morning session Mr. Weiner entertainly discussed the history of comic books and
offered practical ways to use comics and graphic novels with reluctant readers. In the
afternoon, participants formed breakout groups and discussed the objectives and
challenges of purchasing graphic novels for libraries and possible uses for them in the
classroom. Participants left with lists of recommended titles suited to their needs and
fresh ideas to energize school and public libraries.
This month in guidance we are working on cultivating our respect for everyone, including
ourselves! We each traced our hand on a piece of paper, cut it out, and wrote why we
are a “No Place For Hate” school. These hands are hung proudly around the school
reminding everyone of the importance of the choices we make, the path we follow, and
the decisions we come to. Glenwood is committed to being full of respectful and great
people – both young and old!
Teachers were trained in how to use the leveled book room. They were also given time
to peruse all the new titles and were excited by seeing so many new books that they can
use to differentiate instruction.
In addition, the fourth and fifth grade teachers continued to pilot the two word study
programs. One program has kids using multiple modalities to divide words by their
patterns and, thus, learn spelling and vocabulary rules. Because of the success of the
word sorting, teachers who are not piloting the program which incorporates them, made
sorts to go with the program they are using.
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Our district nurses joined school nurses from other Delaware and Chester County school
districts at an in-service sponsored by the PA Department of Health and the Chester
County I.U. We received an update on proposed changes in school immunization
requirements which will most likely be in effect by the school year 2008/2009. These
proposed changes include additional vaccines for 7th grade students--a meningitis
vaccine and Tdap, a booster for tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis. We also had an
update from a physician from the Department of Health about MRSA in schools, and the
effect that the media hype has had on people's perceptions of this staph infection. The
main message of the MRSA presentation was to practice good hand washing and keep
open wounds covered. We received a review on clinical and legal issues for mandated
reporters of suspected child abuse. A physician who deals with child abuse cases at
DuPont Hospital presented clinical case reviews and slides to show various types of
lesions one might be likely to see in child abuse cases. In the afternoon we had a very
interesting presentation entitled, "Hate Groups: A National and Regional Perspective."
The speaker was from the Center for Safe Schools. Her presentation included information
about the activities and prevalence of hate groups in Pennsylvania, and about various
tattoos, symbols, and clothing members of hate groups use to identify themselves as part
of those groups. The topic of the final session was "Accessing Mental Health Services for
Children and Adolescents," another topic which is very pertinent to our practice. We came
away from this in-service day with a lot of helpful information and practical ideas for
dealing with some of the challenges we face as school nurses.
The fifth grade class at Glenwood Elementary had a special visitor. Quiet Thunder, a
Leni Lenape Native American, spent the day sharing stories of his heritage and history.
The students learned the Leni Lenape origin story about “Turtle Island” and where
(geographically) the tribe was located. Quiet Thunder also explained the many ways his
people used the natural resources available to them. They also learned about the daily
life of a Leni Lenape tribe member, including various responsibilities from the
perspectives of a man, child, and woman. The students were able to view many handmade artifacts including tools, instruments, and clothing. One of the student’s favorite
parts of the assembly was dressing in animal skins and acting out a hunting ritual.
INDIAN LANE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Indian Lane was thoroughly cleaned and disinfected following the MRSA diagnosis of a
student. Although the student showed no visible signs of this drug-resistant staph
infection, precautions were taken to ensure the safety and welfare of our entire student
body as well as the staff. The staff reported to the Penncrest High library where teachers
adapted to the unforeseen circumstances. Laptop computers were available to all staff
members and many took the opportunity to update their websites and meet with other
grade-level teachers on curriculum goals.
Students in first grade were charged with estimating the circumference, height, weight
and seed count of 4 various sized pumpkins. They recorded these
predictions on an estimating sheet. They read fiction and nonfiction
pumpkin themed books, did various pumpkin themed crafts, and
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focused on the life cycle of the pumpkin. The children then measured and weighed the
pumpkins in cooperative groups. They worked in teams to scoop and count the seeds.
The children counted by tens to make the task and record keeping easier. The activities
focused on math and language arts skills. The children enjoyed the week very much.
Second grade has just finished their unit on the music of Native American Indians.
Through singing, games and dance they have visited the tribes of the Navajo, Muskogean
and Seminole Indians. They have transformed coffee cans into tom toms by using
pictographs to create an original story and by using feathers for decoration. The unit
culminated with a pow pow lead by the rain priestess in which the Song of the Rain Chant
was performed. It has been known to work! Second grade students were invited to our
second 100 book challenge Read-In of the year. Second graders will read for two steps,
have a snack and play a reading related game during the Read-In. Kids are encouraged
to wear their jammies and bring a sleeping bag as they read with friends and enjoy a
Thanksgiving tale read by Ms. Marzano. First graders, who enjoyed their Read-In in
October, had a great time listening to our guest reader Mr. Bennett and sharing their
favorite stories with friends.
The fifth grade AGP classes will be listening to a guest speaker, Tom Reeves, about
ornithology and different bird species. The fourth grade AGP classes will be researching
and planning a family trip to the seven regions of Pennsylvania. They will be using Excel
to create a budget sheet and online resources to plan out their schedule. The second
grade classes will be identifying the three major types of rocks and how they are formed
and the first grade AGP classes will be discussing how clouds are formed and create an
actual cloud in a jar.
To celebrate American Education Week, parents were invited to observe in their child’s
classroom. Each grade level had their own special day for their visit which allowed the
parents to relax and enjoy their morning. First grade parents were invited to stay for their
special area activity, since this is the first year our first grade students experience our
outstanding special area teachers.
Mr. Bennett hosted an informal gathering of parents, guardians and community members.
This gathering had an open agenda so that anyone could come to ask a question, voice a
concern, or just come to get to know the Principal and have some dessert. Participants
had a chance to meet our new counselor, Jessica Hilden, and Mr. Bennett presented a
brief overview on the PSSA results.
Our ever-popular Halloween parade went off without
witch…I mean
hitch. Our little ghosts and goblins enjoyed the beautiful afternoon by
parading outside on the soccer field to the ghostly tunes provided by Mr.
Boyle and company. Parents enjoyed the variety of costumes and each
class enjoyed refreshments and games afterwards.
Approximately 90 vendors displayed their wares at Indian Lane’s 12th Annual Holiday
Craft Fair. This annual fund raiser, sponsored by the PTG, included a bake sale and
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book fair. Shoppers were able to get a jump-start on their holiday shopping and seemed
to enjoy the homemade crafts.
Dr. Jeffrey Bernstein, PhD., a licensed psychologist specializing in family therapy, made a
presentation to parents on Raising Self Esteem in Children. Dr. Bernstein, a well known
relationship expert and the author of Why Can’t You Read My Mind?, has been quoted in
publications such as Cosmopolitan Magazine, Ladies Home Journal, The Chicago
Tribune and Men’s health magazine. Dr. Bernstein has appeared on several radio
stations and on the Today Show and Court TV, among other venues.
1First Grade Read-In. Fun was
had by all at the first ever READ-IN! About 30 first graders and their parents attended a
night of reading in the library in order to promote the 100 book challenge. Nights for other
grade levels are planned for the future.
MEDIA ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
A Salute to Veterans
Media’s grade 5 students had the privilege of marching in Media’s 48th Annual Veteran’s
Day Parade. They carried our school banner wearing t-shirts designed by our art teacher,
Jana Maxwell: NO PLACE FOR HATE IN THE CLASS OF ’08. Our students joined
Penncrest students to unfurl the large American flag that normally resides at Rose Tree
Park. The entire school went out to support the participants and enjoy the parade. To be
sure, everyone loves a parade!
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Professional Development
Patrick Murphy (guidance) and Susan Howe (IST) attended KidPeace Institutes’ National
Conference “The Journey of Transformation.” They attended several workshops including
“Kids and their Families” and “Kids Dealing with Aggression and Bulllying.” The keynote
speaker was Dr. David Elkind, author of several books including The Hurried Child. He
shared insights about the importance of play as a way for a child to learn about himself
and others.
Librarian Jacqueline Matusow attended a workshop, “Using Comics and Graphic Novels
in Libraries and Classrooms.” In recent years, schools and libraries have increased
student interest by including comics and graphic novels in curricula and library collections.
The workshop gave participants practical ways to use comics and graphic novels with
reluctant readers. Mrs. Matusow also attended a day long workshop on poetry held at
West Chester University.
Rebecca Harrison and Brenda Millette attended The Dyslexia Conference. Isabel Beck
was the keynote speaker. Her work on comprehension strategies is leading edge.
Mrs. Kotch is participating in a series of workshops at The DCIU, “Having Difficult
Conversations with Teachers.” The facilitator, Dr. Mary Helen Spiri, is the Executive
Director of Chesapeake CES.
Robin Smith, Maria Kotch, and Dr. Angela Gilbert attended a presentation by children’s
author, Faith Ringold, held at The Delaware County Community College. Faith Ringold,
an award winning children’s book writer and illustrator, uses both paint and fabric for her
story quilts. Her politically charged paintings hang in the Studio Museum in Harlem, New
York’s metropolitan Museum of Art, and other museums. Her first book, Tar Beach, was a
Caldecott Honor Book and a winner of the Coretta Scott King Award.
November 6 was a staff development day where each building developed its own
programs. At Media, we had differentiated choices that were all facilitated by staff
members. Offerings included A Phonics Primer for Intermediate Grade Teachers, Guided
reading, I’ve Dibeled, Now What?, Differentiated Math Activities that Support Small group
Instruction, Websites: Your and Others, Using Your LCD Projector, Running records, and
Extending Reading through Websites. We also had a presentation by Dr. Burnett and
Amy Somerville on elementary gifted program procedures.
No Place for Hate Pledge Renewed
At our November all-school assembly, Media Elementary renewed its commitment to the
No Place for Hate initiative. Fifth graders Jake Branyan, Jonah Jackson and Jaron TegenCase quizzed the students about bullying behavior. At the end of the quiz, we all took “the
pledge.” Students further noted their commitment by signing a pledge next to their school
photo. The school-wide display was organized by our IST, Susan Howe. The students
also participated in a No Place for Hate activity, “I am Unique.” They stamped their
thumbprint and signed their names. Every one is different and unique.
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Fall Masquerade
Circus was the theme of our annual Halloween Parade (Fall Masquerade). Mrs. Kotch
was the Ringmaster, Mr. Murphy appeared as the bearded lady, Ms. Howe was the
strongman, and most of the teachers dressed as clowns. Our physical education teacher,
Carol Shapero, organized a terrific parade. Parents helped with the parties that capped
off a fun-filled day. Our students collected $1295 for UNICEF.
Music News: Focus on Grade 5
Fifth graders just completed a study of songs from the Middle East, two of which will be
featured in the Winter Concert. One focus point in this unit was the different modes used
in non-western music. The students studied the Hajiz mode which was paired with a folk
song from Egypt titled Zane from Aberdeen.
The musical comedy unit is aligned with the Media Theatre production of Joseph and the
Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. The students are exploring all aspects of the musical
genre, viewing scenes on DVD and from the web, acting, singing and learning what goes
on behind the scenes. They each have a Playbill that allows them to take notes and follow
along.
Community Day
Grade 2 has an annual presentation called Community Day. The students practiced for
many weeks for their grand performance. The children celebrated everything that they
learned about communities by dressing as community workers. Every job from police
officer to farmer was represented. The students each chose a profession and built a
model building of the place where they would work. The buildings were combined to
create a model town. Each town elected a mayor. The children also practiced their map
skills as they toured Media by foot. So much is gained in this unit. Our second graders are
now better prepared to be good citizens and community member. This concept of the
strength of community is very important to us at Media School.
Field Trips
Kindergarten had a fine time at Linvilla Orchards. It was part of their “fall” study. They
were able to see apple cider in production. Grade 2 took a walking trip around Media
(see Community Day). Grade 4 visited The Minshall House, also walking. They got a
stamp for their “Passports to History” and learned about colonial life in Media. They also
visited the Providence meeting where they saw an aspect of the Underground Railroad.
Fifth grade visited The Stroud Water Research Center to conduct a stream study.
Students observed and tested the quality of the water in the stream and collected and
observed under microscopes stream organisms.
Student Leadership Forum
Thank you to Penncrest High School for hosting our first Student Leadership Forum.
Students from high school, middle school and our four elementary schools met to discuss
issues. Media was represented by Jonah Jackson, Riley George, Seth Fein, and Lauren
Boyer represented Media School.
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Harvest Fair
The biggest PTG event of the year is The Harvest Fair. This year’s Harvest Fair was
bigger and better than ever. We had food, games, raffles, vendors, a “Spooky Trail,” an
apple pie contest, a Chili cook-off, face painting, pumpkin decorating, and great seasonal
décor. Thanks to our PTG for hosting this family event.
Food Tasting
Thank you to our food service for making monthly food tastings possible. This month’s
choice of goat cheese and sharp cheddar was popular. None of the kids realized that the
goat cheese was not cream cheese or something else. Next month we will be inviting
parents to have lunch at school.
ROSE TREE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
At the November PTG meeting Ms. Daugherty presented a program on AYP and Rose
Tree Elementary. Grandparents Day was observed during American Education Week.
During the month 34 students participated in the Rock and Read with the Principal
program. Four students attended the Leadership Conference hosted at Penncrest.
Music Happenings
All music classes are learning patriotic songs and celebrating their birthdays with a
special birthday song. Also music classes welcomed the Rose Valley Chorus &
Orchestra at an Assembly for the production of the operetta entitled "The Pirates of
Penzance. All children enjoyed learning and singing a song to accompany the cast. The
Choraliers (a special chorus) are learning the songs for a winter musical entitled
"December Around the World"
Physical Education
First and second graders focused on locomotor movements, rolling, underhand and
overhand throwing, and catching. Third and fourth graders finished up ball skills such as
dribbling, passing, trapping, kicking and shooting. They practiced skills for maintaining
possession of the ball and strategies for offense and defense. Fifth grade finished up
working on ball skills such as carrying, running, dodging, throwing, catching, passing and
snapping. They also practiced skills for maintaining possession of the ball and strategies
for offense and defense. Later in the month, third graders focused on throwing and
catching, and fourth and fifth graders focused on activities with long handled implements.
Art
Student artists in grade one created mixed media seasonal landscapes while second
grade traveled to Australia to create Dreamtime stories in the style of Aboriginal artists.
Third grade artists journeyed back in time to learn how ancient Greek artists created their
painted vases before designing their own version in 2D. Pennsylvania Germans artists
inspired fourth grade to illustrate a birth certificate fraktur , while fifth grade students
enhanced their social studies unit on southwest Native Americans by weaving small
blankets to adorn their pueblo paintings in the style of Georgia O’Keefe.
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First Grade Happenings
We had a busy November, the children learned about the First Thanksgiving and we
hosted our own Thanksgiving Feast. The classes worked cooperatively and enjoyed
many of the same foods that were at the first Thanksgiving, popcorn, cranberries and
homemade butter on muffins.
Second Grade Happenings
Second graders at Rose Tree experienced a “soft and cuddly” history lesson this month.
The children rotated in mixed groups among the teachers to complete literature, math and
history activities to celebrate Teddy Roosevelt’s birthday and the creation of the teddy
bear in his honor.
Fourth Grade Happenings
This month in fourth grade we have been writing letters to students in the UNK. Each
student has written to a year 5 student at Milby Primary School in Nuneaton, England.
Mrs. Podlaski and Mrs. West will be getting their classes to write back to each student
individually and we will then be continuing to write throughout the year as pen pals. They
will be able to continue this after they leave fourth grade if they wish to do so.
SPRINGTON LAKE MIDDLE SCHOOL
Staff
Faculty was treated to a pancake breakfast cooked to perfection by Dr. Jeuell, Mrs. Horan
and Mr. Jackowski prior to the November 6 In-service. Parent-Teacher conferences were
held on November 20 and 21st. Our senior citizens were treated to a wonderful luncheon
on November 8. Entertainment was provided by the Steppers, Choice Voices, Jazz
Band, Select Chorus and Honors Strings. All attendees received a bag clip/magnet that
indicated Springton Lake Middle School Cares About You.
Art
Ms. Sycz's eighth grade students have begun a new lesson which focuses on the art of
lettering as well 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 proportion, shape and quality of
line 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 examine and
write their viewpoint about art in relationship to themselves and to society. Students will
then read material about the value and purpose of art to the individual and society
completing a worksheet to reinforcing the reading material. The reading material will
include material about pre-Columbian folk art. This will transition into a clay unit which
requires students to create a vessel in the form of an animal being inspired by preColumbian folk art. Students will use creative thinking skills to construct a functional work
of art. Clay skills acquired during the 6th grade year will be strengthened in this 7th grade
clay project. Grade six students have begun a painting lesson which continues to explore
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composition including the following principles of design: balance, pattern, movement,
rhythm, emphasis and unity. The elements of design that students will be exploring are
line, shape, value and color. Students will look at the work on Henri Rousseau analyzing
his use of simple shapes to form images, strong composition and use of color. In addition
to looking at Rousseau, students will read about the artist and also read about the
elements of art that they will be using. Students will carefully plan a composition with
preliminary sketches using plants as a subject. Choices for the plants can range from a
jungle to a home garden depending upon the student’s interests. Resource images
brought in to class will help students draw these plants as well as the animals that would
occupy the same space. Students will explore color theory mixing different values and
custom colors. Painting skills will be strengthened.
Mrs. Prior is hosting student teacher Ms. Kate Kaliner from The University of the Arts.
During Ms. Kaliner's placement here, students in the 8th grade will be creating multiple
portraits transformed from digital photographs to stenciled prints. Seventh graders will be
creating papier-mâché sculptures of skulls based on those made in the Mexican
celebration of El Dia de los Muertos that is studied in Spanish class. Sixth graders will
learn about and create mud cloths using geometric designs like those found in Mali, Africa
to correlate with the study of Africa in the sixth grade curriculum. In most of Mrs. Going's
classes, the conclusion of color theory as the theme is coming to a close. eighth grades
will be completing their study of Ancient China. Chinese water Dragons, the revered Tiger
of China and The Masu Box should be on display soon! Eighth grades will move forward
in history and begin their study of the Middle Ages and the art of the Illuminated
manuscripts. An art trip to the Philadelphia Museum of Art is scheduled for late April
which will reinforce historical information from 8th grade social studies as well as the arts
of the Medieval and Renaissance period. Seventh grades are rapping up a study of
Georgia O'Keeffe and the art of Abstraction and Color. A trip is scheduled to New Mexico
to her museum via the computer as a culminating activity! Seventh grade will transition
into the Element of Form and move to their ceramics unit soon. Sixth grades are
immersed in the art of French Impressionist, Henri Rousseau, and anxiously awaiting the
demonstration of materials to use on their outstanding pencil studies! More to come next
marking period.
Guidance
6th grade students are adjusting nicely to Springton Lake. Mr. Bortnicker has begun
meeting each student individually in order to establish a relationship with them and to
help students become familiar with guidance services available to them. He has also
begun a guidance group called "Kids to Kids" which focuses on peer relationships. The
group will meet weekly for 6 weeks in hopes that students will learn more about
relationship skills and to discuss common issues related to making friends and keeping
them. Mr. Bortnicker taught a friendship lesson to all sixth grade students. They shared
information about themselves and discussed skills used to meet new people and maintain
relationships.
Seventh grade students participated in a guidance lesson focused on self-esteem. In the
lesson, students were asked to make an advertisement about them, focusing on their
positive attributes. Interested seventh graders will be participating in two guidance
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groups this semester. "Kids to Kids" is a group that will focus on peer relationships and
"Family Issues" will focus on the issues that students face in today's changing society.
Eighth grade students enthusiastically participated in a diversity lesson taught by Mrs.
Griffin and Miss Bergan (guidance intern). There were many interesting discussions
about stereotypes, flash judgments we make about people, and valuing the contributions
that all people make to society. Mrs. Griffin has been meeting with students who are new
to the RTM school district to assist with their academic and social adjustment to Springton
Lake. She will be meeting regularly throughout the year to help them achieve their
academic goals.
All Springton Lake students participated in the kick-off for the NO PLACE FOR HATE
Program. The kick-off took place in World Language, Resource Room, and Reading
classes. Students were divided in to groups and given a "Resolution of Respect" puzzle.
Students put the puzzle together and then recited the "Resolution of Respect".
Afterwards, discussion took place about the meaning of the Resolution and the ideas
behind the NO PLACE FOR HATE Program.
Language Arts
Sixth grade students in Mr. Tolomeo’s enhanced language arts class are reading the
novel, Flags of Our Fathers, which is the inspirational true story of the World War II
soldiers who raised the flag on Iwo Jima. Many of the students also met the author,
James Bradley, when he visited Delaware County on Saturday, October 20th. Based on a
"One Book, One Community" model, all county residents are encouraged to read the
same book and attend events based on its topics. Copies of the adapted middle school
version of the book were provided to Mr. Tolomeo through the county intermediate unit.
Math
Mr. Best's math classes went outside this week to "walk off" addition, subtraction,
multiplication, and division problems with integers on number lines with a unit of one
pace. The kinesthetic activity helps students understand the rules for performing
operations on integers. Pre-Algebra is getting into the fundamentals of algebra in order to
solve higher level equations.
Geometry has just completed a research project on a mathematician of their choice.
They will also continue to build their bank of theorems continuing on with triangles and
then quadrilaterals.
Algebra students have been discovering methods of graphing linear equations as well as
their properties by using the TI-83 graphing calculators. These advanced calculators
enable the students to create multiple graphs in minimal amounts of time, analyze, and
make inferences based on the data. Geometry students are busy learning the concept of
proofs. They are interpreting different mathematical arguments using these proofs. Such
concepts also help the students build on the idea of an argumentative thesis (a topic
currently being taught in some LA classes). Pre-Algebra students are discovering some
of the core properties in algebra such as the distributive, associative, commutative, and
combining like terms. The students will use these properties as they next explore the
world of integers.
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Sixth grade is working on fraction, decimal and percent concepts in the context of a
school fund-raising event (in textbook only). Students are currently working on creating
their own fraction strips and will then use their fraction strips to solve problems throughout
the unit.
Special Education
Our literacy consultant, Joy Mackenzie has visited our building to teach demonstration
lessons and to work with teachers on the implementation of our literacy initiatives.
Students in our new special education Spanish class continue to make progress in their
language learning. The students participated in activities to help them learn about the
Mexican holiday “The Day of the Dead.”
The Life Skills students—as well as some Emotional Support students—will attend a
Phantoms school game on November 14.
All our staff continues to work on transition plans for all students in special education. All
students have transition folders and have begun to complete interest surveys and selfassessments.
Our new secretary, Juanita Strowbridge, has become an invaluable resource in
supporting our teachers. We are very grateful to the Board and to the Superintendent for
approving her position.
World Language
Mr. McKay's sixth grade Spanish classes were treated to a guest speaker from Chile who
shared much information about his culture and background. The Chilean, Fernando
Alcayaga, currently serves as an Editor for the Philadelphia Newspaper, Impacto, geared
toward the Latino population. His visit was aimed toward the goal of cultural competence
and meeting the World Language Connections and Community standards.
The World Language Department has subscribed to Quia, and will hold workshops to
learn how to use it.
Mrs. Hensley attended the PSMLA conference and will talk about her experience at the
faculty in-service.
Ms. Gault eighth grade Spanish students and Ms. Kutney and Mr. Brown’s eighth grade
Introductory to Spanish classes created tombstones for el Dia de Muertos celebrated on
November 2nd in Mexico.
PENNCREST HIGH SCHOOL
Staff
Several Penncrest faculty members attended the Delaware Valley Minority Student
Achievement Consortium conference entitled: "Creating a College-Going School Culture
for Minority Students.
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Penncrest hosted the 30th Annual Meeting of Area School Superintendents sponsored by
the Jewish Community Relations Council of Philadelphia. Approximately 100 school
administrators, counselors, and faculty representatives from schools throughout our
region attended the presentation by the featured speaker: Thom Stecher who addressed
the topic "Alienation: Precursor to School Violence."
Health and physical education teacher, Theresa Long, made a presentation on MRSA to
interested staff members. PHS nurse, Judy Stingle joined her as the medical expert.
Math teacher, Mrs. Sandy Carter, was selected as an Everyday Hero for going above and
beyond in her everyday life. She was recognized for this honor at the Riddle Memorial
Hospital’s Annual Women’s Health Mart.
Homecoming Dance
The Homecoming Dance had a record number of student attendees. Everybody seemed
to thoroughly enjoy the evening. Congratulations to Allie McCausland and Bill Defulvio our
2007 Homecoming Queen and King.
JV Show
The Penncrest Junior Class JV Show was held. Approximately one hundred students
participated in the show. It was an enjoyable and successful event.
Music
The Penncrest Roaring Lions Marching Band wrapped up their fall season with four
performances. The band honored the twenty five graduating members of the band at the
Senior Recognition football game. The band honored those who have served in the
armed forces in the annual Veteran's Day Parade on State Stree. The Fall Concert that
same evening celebrated the marching season with performances of their field show,
parade, and stands music. Finally, the annual Holiday Craft show took place on
November 17 featuring live music and over seventy five crafters to kick off the holiday
shopping.
The band was recognized as "Superior," the highest rating possible, at Marple Newtown's
Bandarama Festival. This is the third time the Roaring Lions have received this award.
Penncrest High School hosted a clinic/performance by internationally known sitar and
tabla player Sandip Burman. Mr. Burman, who has recorded with the likes of George
Harrison, Bela Fleck and the Flecktones, and Ravi Shankar, performed for a group of
sixty students as part of his current tour of the east coast. Our students experienced the
instruments, melodies, and rhythms of the classical music of India known as Raja through
active participation, listening, and a lively question and answer session at the end. The
differences as well as the commonalities between the music of the East and the West
were highlighted, and inspirational to the student musicians in the audience.
National Honor Society
The National Honor Society held its yearly induction ceremony. Fifty three new juniors
and seniors were inducted. Next year we will schedule the induction on an evening when
13
the school board does not meet so that board members will have a chance to attend our
ceremony. The NHS has three major service projects for the year. The Blood Drive and
Kuts for Kids are both handled entirely by the NHS. The NHS will also play a major role
in the Relay for Life in May, 2008.
Rotary Students
The Rotary Students of the Month for October were Terri Mercer, grade 12 and
Katie Davis, grade 11. They were honored at the Rotary luncheon at the Towne House
Restaurant.
American Cancer Society Relay for Life
The Relay for Life held its kick off meeting in the Penncrest cafeteria. This was an
informational meeting where those interested in participating in the event could learn how
to become a team captain, recruit and organize a team or just volunteer to help and raise
money for cancer research. This is an important school and community event.
Culture Fair
The Social Studies Department with the assistance of the entire school community
sponsored a Culture Fair in the Kauffman Gym. The Culture Fair is held every other
year. Booths are set up representing various cultures and experts present facts about
their areas of interest. Outside performers are invited to dramatize their specialties. This
year over twenty different cultures were represented and various student groups
explained the richness of their diverse backgrounds.
Student Council
Penncrest Student Council hosted the first all Rose Tree Media district student council
meeting. Over fifty students attended the session in the Penncrest Library.
Veteran’s Day
Over seventy-two Penncrest students marched in the annual Veteran's Day Parade in
Media. The Penncrest students practiced and unfurled the American flag with the Media
Elementary School fifth grade near the end of the parade.
International Club
The International Club held its Fall Festival. The Club will celebrate a variety of fall
holidays, including Halloween and Los Dias de los Muertos.
National French Week
During National French Week, the French department hosted several activities to promote
French and French-speaking counties. The first event was the annual dinner trip to a
Moroccan restaurant with the International Club. On Monday night over ninety staff
members and students dined at Casablanca restaurant on City Line Avenue and
experienced a traditional, six-course Moroccan meal. Students were invited to watch the
sub-titled, French comedy film, Les Visiteurs and students took buses to SLMS for a
pétanque tournament (the French version of bocce ball.) Friday was French t-shirt day.
Throughout the week various teachers presented French trivia questions for the annual
14
contest on the morning announcements.
certificates to area French restaurants.
Student contest winners received gift
World Language Concert
The Alligator Zydeco Band performed at Springton Lake Middle School.
proceeds benefit the Phyllis Kavanaugh scholarship for study abroad.
Concert
Physics Olympics
The first of three Physics Olympics tournaments was held at the new Bayard Rusting
High School in West Chester, PA. Penncrest won the meet with a total of 750 out of a
possible 800 points. This is a 40 point lead over there nearest competitor, Phoenixville.
Radnor and Harriton are third and fourth respectively. The League also includes
Cinnaminson and Shawnee from NJ, and Pennsbury, Rustin, West Chester East, and
Henderson from PA. Penncrest’s team was led by senior captains Shawn Antonelli,
Brandon Young, and Neil Patel. Individual medal winners were Taylor McManus and
Corbin Muetterties winning gold medals in the Mousetrap Car Event, and Mike Still
winning a bronze medal in the Pumpkin Drop Event. Over one-hundred Penncrest
students and over thirty-five of their parents attended the meet. The next competition will
be December 15, 2007 at Radnor H. S.
Future Business Leaders of America
Twenty two Penncrest students participated in the Regional Leadership Workshop at
Widener University which was attended by 270 students from 9 area high schools. Also,
four Penncrest FBLA officers attended the State Leadership Workshop held at the Penn
State Conference Center in State College, PA. Officers from ninety three other chapters
in the state represented their schools at the General Session where they were introduced
to their state officers and humored by motivational speaker Amy Gallimore. From there
the delegates had a choice of over thirty seminars to attend led by respected business
figures and leaders. These 45 minute sessions were both engaging and informative with
titles such as “Leadership Lessons from The Price is Right,” and “The Look of
Leadership.” They attended a session entitled, “How to Wow your Boss!” where the
students learned leadership secrets from a executive at the Schwan’s Food Company.
This year’s theme was “Leadership in Action!” and with the quality the presenters, it was
hard not to learn from the best. Monday’s sessions emphasized the competitive nature of
FBLA briefing the officers on this year’s topics and rules. As officers, PHS students can
now successfully educate and motivate members to participate in the competitive events
and move on to the state competition this spring in Hershey, PA. In the workshop’s
closing session each chapter made a pledge to the American Trauma Society, the
Penncrest chapter pledged $500 as part of a state effort to raise over $60,000 in funds.
The delegates also took a guided tour of the main campus of Penn State University and
had a chance to network with fellow business students from all over the state.
Athletics
October was a month of recognition for the Athletic teams at Penncrest High School.
Boy’s and girl’s soccer, field hockey, volleyball, and football teams all took time to
recognize their senior athletes and parents for their commitment to the program.
Coaches and players contributed to the ceremonies with touching speeches and
decorated locker rooms.
15
Jerry Thompson, A Penncrest Senior, was honored this year by the Media Old Timers
Association as the Lewis “Jumbo” Johnson Memorial award winner for his outstanding
contributions/performance in the sports of indoor and outdoor track.
The Penncrest volleyball team hosted the Springton Lake Middle School’s seventh and
eighth grade volleyball teams for a combined practice. The girls worked on team strategy
and practiced new skills. The volleyball booster organization purchased pizza and drinks
for the teams to enjoy. The Penncrest field hockey team hosted the Springton Lake
Middle school eighth grade team for a night game at Louis W. Scott Field. The team
members were recognized during a halftime presentation.
The varsity volleyball team earned the 16th seed in the PIAA District I Volleyball
Tournament.
The team defeated Sun Valley High School to advance to the second
round. In the second round, the team lost 3-0 to top seeded Bishop Shanahan High
School. Congratulations on a great season.
The varsity boys’ soccer team earned the 20th seed in the PIAA District I Soccer
Tournament.
The Lions traveled to Abington High School to play the 11th seeded
Knights.
Despite a wonderful played game, the team suffered a 1-0 setback.
Congratulations on a wonderful season.
The Penncrest High School boys’ and girls’ cross country teams both competed in the
PIAA District I Championships at Lehigh University. Nick Bonaventure, a junior, and AJ
Bull, a senior, both qualified to take part at the PIAA State Championship meet in
Hershey, Pennsylvania. Nick finished in 55th place while AJ finished in 107th place.
Congratulations on these outstanding accomplishments.
16
Rose Tree Media School District
308 North Olive Street
Media, Pennsylvania 19063-2493
Telephone 610.627.6000
Fax 610.891.0959
www.rtmsd.org
To:
Members of the Board of School Directors
Denise C. Kerr, Ed.D. Superintendent
From:
Danielle Penza, Accountant
Date:
November 20, 2007
Subject:
November 20, 2007 – 8:00 PM Finance Committee Agenda
Chairman: Bill O’Donnell
_____________________________________________________________________
In attendance:
Veronica Barbato
Jeff Pettit
Linda Fox
John Hanna
Bill Campbell
Also in attendance: Denise Kerr
Meg Barney
Danielle Penza
Dennis Cini
Sharon Learn
Roxanne Schupp
Ron Baldino
Bill Dougherty
1. Requests for Proposals Audit - Barbacane Thornton & Company
The three year agreement with Barbacane Thornton expires at the conclusion of
the 2006 – 2007 audit. At the October committee meeting, the consensus was to
ask Barbacane Thorton to “sharpen their pencils” and come back with a new
proposal.
Current Agreement
2007 $24,100
Previously Proposed Agreement (5.25%)
2008 $25,400
2009 $26,700
2010 $28,100
New Proposed Agreement
2008
2009
2010
2011
(5.0%)
$25,300
$26,600
$27,900
$29,300
Follow up: Following a discussion the committee agreed to prepare a Request for
Proposals.
1
2. Corporate Sponsorship Program Policy #918
A second draft of the policy was presented to the committee.
Action: This will be on the November 29, 2007 Legislative Agenda as a first
reading.
3. 2008 – 2009 General Fund Budget
The school district’s adjusted index for fiscal year 2008 – 2009, in accordance
with Special Session Act 1 of 2006 is 4.4%. The index represents the allowed
percentage increase in the millage rate.
Follow up: The School Board must take the following actions:
January 3, 2008 - the Proposed Preliminary Budget for 2008-2009 must be
made available for public inspection using the PDE-2028 form.
January 13, 2008 - the School Board must give public notice of its intent to adopt
the Proposed Preliminary Budget for 2008-2009.
January 28, 2008 - the School Board must adopt the Proposed Preliminary
Budget for 2008-2009.
The next finance committee meeting will be on December 11, 2007 at 8:00 PM
2
Rose Tree Media School
District
308 North Olive Street
Media, Pennsylvania 190632493
Telephone 610.627.6000
Fax 610.891.0959
www.rtmsd.org
Denise C. Kerr, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools
___
To:
Members of the Board of School Directors
Denise C. Kerr, Ed.D. Superintendent
From:
Roxanne Schupp, Supervisor of Business Operations
Date:
November 20, 2007
Subject:
November 20, 2007 - 9:00 PM - Operations Committee Minutes
Chairperson: Bill Montgomery
__________________________________________________________________
In attendance:
Veronica Barbato
Linda Fox
Bill Campbell
Jeff Pettit
John Hanna
Also in attendance: Denise Kerr
Meg Barney
Danielle Penza
Dennis Cini
Sharon Learn
Roxanne Schupp
Ron Baldino
Bill Dougherty
1. Capital Projects 2007 – 2008
a.
Dennis Cini presented the recommended budgets for capital projects.
Action: The capital fund budgets will appear on the November 29, 2007
Legislative Agenda. (Attachment)
b.
Architerra Proposal
Architerra, p.c. submitted a proposal for Professional Services for
PCHS - Smedley Tract Athletic Field Development, Constructional Bid
Packaging and Construction Observation. (Attachment)
Action: This item will be on the November 29, 2007 Legislative Agenda.
1
2.
Change Orders
CO# E1 - Burkey Construction Co.
Springton Lake Elevator Replacement Project
Add three (3) fluorescent lay-in light fixtures
in elevator lobbies per new code requirements
$ 674.00
Add one (1) wall mounted light fixture in elevator
shaft per new shaft lighting code requirement
$ 250.00
Delete rewiring of telephone panel – work
performed by RTMSD contractor
($ 3,500.00)
Delete fire alarm system panel tie-in – work
performed by RTMSD contractor
Total Change Order Decrease
($ 800.00)
($ 3,403.00)
CO #1 - Five Star, Inc.
Springton Lake Chilled Water Piping &Equipment Phase II
Relocate existing gymnasium exit signs
$
Install 6 code compliant duct detectors to three
Existing air handling units
$ 8,941.28
Additional wiring, parts & labor to complete duct
Detector installation
$ 1,332.89
Wall patching requested by owner
$ 1,020.97
Total Change Order Increase
982.97
$ 12,278.11
Action: This item will be on the November 29, 2007 Legislative Agenda.
3.
Media Youth Wrestling Program – Sunday Building Use
Media Youth Wrestling Program is requesting the use of the Penncrest High
School Gym and Auxiliary Gym, on Sunday, February 3, 2008 from 6:00 a.m. –
4:00 p.m.
Action: This item will be on the November 29, 2007 Legislative Agenda.
The next operations committee meeting will be on December 11, 2007 9:00 PM
2
ROSE TREE MEDIA SCHOOL DISTRICT
PROPOSED 2008 CAPITAL PROJECTS
School
Priority
Budget
PENNCREST HIGH SCHOOL
Athletic Fields-Smedley Tract
Roof Replacements
Replace Kitchen Flooring-New seamless Epoxy Flooring
Ventilation in Gym - provide HVAC system
Repair Asphalt surface @ Tennis courts
Replace Storm Drainage piping at JV baseball field
Provide HC ramp, additional seating, new steps for football field
Install Ventilation system in Rms. C-111, 123,124, Ceramic Art
TOTAL
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
$2,700,000 Authorize Professional Services Contract w/Architerra
$150,000 Based on Roofing Resources updated survey, 11/9/07
$50,000
$350,000
$40,000
$50,000
$220,000 Insurance Co. recomendation
$150,000
$3,710,000
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
2
2
2
$600,000
$210,000
$65,000
$250,000
$70,000
$20,000
$165,000
$200,000
$8,000
$85,000
$25,000
$1,698,000
GLENWOOD ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Renovations to Existing Locker rooms for Educational Space
Provide ventilation/humidity control in K classrooms
Replace Aluminum storefront at entrance/controlled access system
Upgrade Toilet Room Fixtures,Toilet partitions, piping,finishes
Repave Faculty Parking lot.
Replace Library carpet
Remove folding partitions/install permanent partitions
Replace ceiling tiles and grid in classrooms
Repair Brick retaining wall
Replace exterior doors
Re-key entire building
TOTAL
SPRINGTON LAKE MIDDLE SCHOOL
Roofing @ Greenhouse
$15,000 Based on Roofing Resources updated survey,11/9/07
1
$15,000
TOTAL
INDIAN LANE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Replace Rooftop units @ Library, Computer Rm., Main/Nurse Office
Replace sidewalks and curbing
Notes & Comments
1
1
$
$185,000
50,000
$235,000
TOTAL
11/21/2007
Page 1
ROSE TREE MEDIA SCHOOL DISTRICT
PROPOSED 2008 CAPITAL PROJECTS
School
Priority
Budget
Notes & Comments
MEDIA ELEMENTARY
Complete Roof replacements
Masonry Restoration/pointing Phase II
$425,000 Based on Roofing Resources updated survey,11/9/07
$200,000
1
1
$625,000
TOTAL
ROSE TREE ELEMENTARY
Repair damaged exterior EIFS wall at rear
$35,000
1
$35,000
TOTAL
TOTAL ALL SCHOOLS
$6,318,000
NOTE: Capital Projects budget estimated to be approx. $8,000,000 from Funds No. 32,34,35,36,37
11/21/2007
Page 2
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:
November 21, 2007
Subject:
Minutes of the Personnel Committee Meeting – November 20, 2007
Board Members in attendance: S. Benson, Chair, V. Barbato, W. Campbell, J.
Pettit, L. Fox
Also in attendance: A. Callahan, D. Kerr, John Hanna
I.
Items for Legislative Meeting – Anne Callahan
Anne Callahan reviewed items to be included on the agenda of the legislative
meeting of November 29, 2007.
Action: All items will be placed on the agenda of the legislative meeting of
November 29, 2007, for a vote of the Board.
II.
Executive Session
An executive session was held to discuss matters of personnel.
The next meeting of the Personnel Committee will be held on Tuesday, December
11, 2007, at 7 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
To:
Members of the Board of School Directors
Denise C. Kerr, Ed.D. Superintendent
From:
Valerie Burnett
Date:
November 14, 2007
Subject:
November 13, 2007 Pupil Services Minutes
Chairperson: Mrs. Veronica Barbato
Valerie L. Burnett
Director of Pupil Services
Board members in attendance: Veronica Barbato, Bill Campbell, Linda Fox, Nancy
Fronduti, Stacy Jackson Benson, Nancy Mackrides, Jeff Pettit
Others in attendance: Denise Kerr, Valerie Burnett, Pat Barta, Sandy Shacklady-White,
John Hanna
Special Education Update
Dr. Burnett reviewed sources of offsetting revenue from Elwyn reconciliation,
contingency funds received from PDE, reimbursement for wards of state, and
accumulated ACCESS funding. Data was also shared regarding anticipated numbers of
children with disabilities entering from early intervention for the next three years as well
as current trends in the identification of special education students across all schools
over the 2006-2007 school year. Trends in assessment and identification are being
monitored to identify potential sources of over-identification as our special education
population exceeds the state average, and our rate of exiting students from special
education is well below the state average.
Request for 1:1 assistant at Rose Tree Elementary
Dr. Barta presented a request for a one on one aide for a student with significant
behavioral concerns at Rose Tree Elementary. The position will be filled by transferring
a one on one aide from Springton Lake as the student she was assigned to no longer
attends an in-district program.
Action: The request will be forwarded to Human Resources for approval.
Overnight Trips
Cheerleading National Championship in Orlando, Florida 2/7/08 - 2/11/08
The Penncrest High School Cheerleaders are anticipating qualifying for the National
Championship. The student cost is $650.00 the cost to the district is $1,450 for flights
and substitutes.
Action: Request for approval will be on the November 29, 2007 legislative agenda.
Concert Choir to Lake George New York 2/7/08 – 2/10/08
The concert choir will perform a concert and participate in workshop with a professor of
music from a local university. The student cost is $500.00 the cost to the district is
$75.00 for one day of substitute coverage.
Action: Request for approval will be on the November 29, 2007 legislative agenda.
Close Up to Washington D.C. 1/27/08 – 1/31/08
Students tour Washington D.C. neighborhoods and participate in workshops around the
capital city. Student cost is $1,346.00. The potential cost to district for the teacher is
$1,346.00 based on student registration and $300.00 for substitute coverage for a total
district cost of $1646.00.
Action: Request for approval will be on the November 29, 2007 legislative agenda.
Student Leadership Training Retreat Stroudsburg, PA 12/1/07 – 12/3/07
Rick Gregg will lead a group of 125 students through leadership development activities.
The students will be selected to represent grades 9-12 and members of diverse groups
of students. The trip will be funded through an existing student activity fund. Student
cost will be approximately $30.00. The cost to the district is $675.00 for substitute
coverage.
Action: Request for approval will be on the November 29, 2007 legislative
agenda.
Contracts
Dental Hygienist- rescind contract for with Kat Williams. Our Dental Hygienist is not able
to fulfill the contract based on additional work commitments.
Action: Request for approval will be on the November 29, 2007 legislative
agenda.
The next meeting of the Pupil Services Committee will be December 4, 2007, at 8:00
PM.
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:
November 14, 2007
RE:
November 13, 2007, Teaching & Learning Committee Meeting Minutes
Chairperson: Mr. Jeff Pettit
Board Members in Attendance: Veronica Barbato, Stacy Benson, Bill Campbell, Linda
Fox, Nancy Fronduti, Nancy Mackrides, Jeff Pettit
Also in Attendance: John Hanna, Jason Marmon, Meg Barney, Angela Gilbert, Denise
Kerr, Steve Taylor
Veterans’ History Project
Meg Barney and Jason Harmon, a representative from Congressman Sestak’s office,
informed the Board about the Veterans History Project, an effort by the Library of
Congress to compile the stories of American war veterans. Congressman Sestak’s
office is promoting the project in conjunction with the World War II Veteran’s Museum in
Media. Penncrest High School students, under the direction of John Pauley, and
accompanied by Meg Barney, will interview up to 80 veterans at Fair Acres and forward
these interviews to the Library of Congress. Other retirement communities in the area
may also take part in the project.
Overview of 2007-2008 Literacy Initiatives
Dr. Gilbert and Dr. Taylor presented an overview of literacy efforts underway at both the
elementary and secondary levels. Dr. Gilbert first described the comprehensive literacy
approach being implemented in the elementary schools. The director explained that a
comprehensive structure for reading and writing includes the best elements of phonics
instruction, with a whole language philosophy. To this end, four major areas – whole and
small group instruction, word study/phonology, writing and independent reading –
comprise the components of our reading/language arts block. Dr. Gilbert shared a
description of each instructional practice as well as the resources utilized to deliver the
literacy curriculum. Materials include anthologies, trade books, big books, magazines,
KidBiz and other websites. In addition, each elementary school has been equipped with
a leveled book room. Data from standardized and ongoing assessments are used to
drive instruction in ways that meet the needs of specific students and address
achievement gaps. Dr. Taylor then shared the schoolwide literacy efforts underway at
the secondary buildings, efforts conducted across the curriculum to support ongoing
literacy skill development in Language Arts. Data analysis continues for teachers across
all subject areas at the secondary schools, with a focus on PSSA and MAP scores at the
high school and PSSA, PVAAS, and MAP at the middle school. One unique project this
year at Springton Lake is a reading incentive program entitled “The 5,000,000-Minute
Challenge,” through which middle school students and teachers are attempting to read
for five million minutes this year, beginning with their Reading Enrichment Period at the
end of the day and continuing at home. At both buildings, the administrations are
promoting cross-curricular reading strategies, such as previewing a text, setting a
purpose for reading, rereading, notetaking, questioning, and creating graphic organizers.
A consultant from the Pennsylvania Writing and Literature Project will also work with
some content-area teachers at the middle school. Administrators will also use the
supervisory system to promote instruction in strategic reading. Any teacher in Cycle I,
which requires clinical observations, must teach reading comprehension strategies
during at least one of the observed lessons. More than 20 teachers in Cycles II & III
have also selected a reading focus for their options. Technology is also playing an
important role in the promotion of good reading. At both the middle school and high
school, the use of the powerful online reading program TeenBiz has greatly expanded
this year through the purchase of many more subscriptions. Springton Lake is also
piloting a reading blog this year through which students may review the books they are
reading, make recommendations, and catch up on the titles their friends have enjoyed.
At both the elementary and secondary levels, a number of metrics, including high-stakes
tests, walk throughs, clinical observation reports, surveys, and usage logs, will help the
Directors evaluate the effectiveness of these initiatives by year’s end.
Reflections on Rockville Centre Trip
Mr. Pettit, Dr. Gilbert, Dr. Kerr and Dr. Taylor, along with a group of teachers and
administrators, traveled to Rockville Centre School District in New York in October. This
district, which has similar demographics to those in RTM, has been successful in closing
achievement gaps and providing high level instruction for all of its students. In sharing
experiences from the visit with the Board, all who participated expressed enthusiasm and
excitement over the possibilities for students when a district moves in the direction of
high expectations and high level curriculum and instruction for all students. It was
agreed that the students, teachers, assets, technology resources and facilities of
Rockville Centre are no more extraordinary than those in RTM. The difference is in the
practiced belief system that all students can learn and achieve at high levels. Students
with special needs are included in the regular program and low level classes have been
eliminated. Accelerated, gifted, honors, AP and IB courses are available to all students,
grades K through 12 - with support given to those who need it. The superintendent, Dr.
Bill Johnson, is the visionary behind this critical initiative and he operates with board
support.
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:
Members of the Board of School Directors
Denise C. Kerr, Ed.D., Superintendent
From:
Patti Linden
Date:
November 16, 2007
Subject:
Technology Committee Meeting Minutes for November 13, 2007
Chairperson: Mrs. Linda Fox
Patti Linden
Director of Technology
and Information Science
Board Members in attendance: Linda Fox, Veronica Barbato, Nancy Mackrides, Jeff Pettit,
Nancy Fronduti, Stacey Benson, Bill Campbell
Also in attendance: John Hanna , Denise Kerr, Patti Linden, Mack Johnson, Kim McCann,
Meg Barney
Net Day Speak Up
Plans for RTM’s participation in this national research project were presented. The purpose of
the online survey is to gather viewpoints from all constituents about science, math, technology,
and 21st Century skills in education. The survey will be completed by administrators, teachers,
students, and parents. The aggregated data that is collected is available to RTM free of charge
and can be used for district reports and grant writing information. The project is sponsored by
Project Tomorrow, SMART Technologies, CDW-G, and other national sponsors. Parents will be
notified via e-alerts on the website, and students will be taking the survey during the school day
with their teachers. The Board of School Directors are also invited to participate in the survey.
Mr. Campbell suggested that we gather predictions about the results from school leaders as a
measure of what we need to do if there are major differences.
Classrooms for the Future Plan
An update of this grant initiative was presented to highlight the participating teachers, their
participation in the online course and other professional development, and the procedures
involved in the delivery of the equipment. Of the eighteen participating teachers, twelve will
have fully equipped classrooms which include the student laptops, and six will have partially
equipped classrooms with all but the student laptops. There is an evaluation and data collection
component for pre equipment delivery and post professional development and equipment use.
Next meeting: Tuesday, December 4, at 7:15 p.m. in the Education Center Board Room
ROSE TREE MEDIA SCHOOL DISTRICT
PRESIDENTIAL ANNOUNCEMENTS – EXECUTIVE SESSION
“In accordance with the Pennsylvania Sunshine Act, executive sessions of the
School Board were held on the following dates to review and discuss matters
permitted under Section 8 of the Act.”
October 25, 2007
November 13, 2007
November 20, 2007
There will be an executive session of the School Board for matters of personnel
at 6:30 p.m. prior to the Informational Session of December 20, 2007, at
Springton Lake Middle School. The Legislative meetings are recorded on tape.
VIII.
Old Business
A.
Policies
1.
Investment of District Funds – Policy #609 - Second Reading
and Approval
Background
Resolve, the Board approve the Investment of District Funds
Policy 609. This was discussed at the September & October
Finance Meetings. Attachment A
IX.
New Business
A.
Personnel
1.
2.
Terminations
a.
Professional
b.
Non-Instructional
1.
Janice Treen, Custodian,
October 30, 2007.
resignation,
effective
2.
Tina Stevenson, Cafeteria
effective September 4, 2007.
Worker,
termination,
3.
Jeanette Ligget, Cafeteria
effective September 4, 2007.
Worker,
termination,
Nominations
a.
b.
Professional
1.
Dmytro Terleckyj, (.2) Long Term Substitute Music
Teacher effective November 15, 2007 at the annual
salary of $9,416.20, Master’s/Step 1 pro-rated. Mr.
Terleckyj received his Bachelor’s Degree from West
Chester University and his Master’s Degree from
Duquesne University. He is assigned to Penncrest
High School replacing Craig Snyder who was
temporarily reassigned. NOTE: Mr. Terleckyj is being
hired pending completion of his pre-employment
paperwork.
2.
Cheryl Lund, Homebound Instructor for the 20072008 school year at the rate of $42.50 per hour.
Non-Instructional
1.
Robert Cecchine, Substitute Bus Driver, effective
November 2, 2007 at the rate of $18.55 per hour. Mr.
Cecchine is assigned to the Transportation
Department replacing Richard Taylor who was
reassigned. NOTE: Mr. Cecchine is being hired
pending
completion
of
his
pre-employment
paperwork.
IX.
New Business
A.
Personnel
2.
Nominations
b.
Non-Instructional
2.
Thomas Ellison, Substitute Bus Aide, effective
October 25, 2007 at the rate of $10.98 per hour. Mr.
Ellison is assigned to the Transportation Department
replacing Judy Parent who resigned. NOTE: Mr.
Ellison is being hired pending completion of his preemployment paperwork.
3.
Gayle Logue, Cafeteria Worker, effective November
30, 2007 at the rate of $10.00 per hour. Ms. Logue is
assigned to Penncrest High School. NOTE: Ms.
Logue is being hired pending completion of her preemployment paperwork.
4.
Heather Mitchell, Theme Reader, effective November
19, 2007 at the rate of $265.00 per month. NOTE: Ms.
Mitchell is being hired pending completion of her preemployment paperwork.
5.
Jill Goldman, Theme Reader, effective November 30,
2007 at the rate of $265.00 per month. NOTE: Ms.
Goldman is being hired pending completion of her
pre-employment paperwork.
6.
Janet Lloyd Murphy, Theme Reader, effective
November 19, 2007 at the rate of $265.00 per month.
NOTE: Ms. Murphy is being hired pending completion
of her pre-employment paperwork.
7.
Anthony DiScala, Custodian, will serve as Night
Supervisor until further notice, at the rate of $83.33
per month. Mr. DiScala is assigned to Indian Lane
Elementary.
IX.
New Business
A.
Personnel
2.
Nominations
b.
Non-Instructional
8.
Recommend the Board approval for the following
personnel to administer the PSAT’s:
Proctor @ $75.00/session
Susan Coates
Enoch Stevenson
Karen Walker
Elaine Jay
Deanna Dachiu
Laura Diksa
Donna Montich
Debra Schnaars
Relief Proctor @ $70.00/session
Mary Rached
Cynthia Miller
Ext.Time Proctor @ $150/session
Nancy Peters
9.
David Leonard will serve as a Substitute Custodian at
the rate of $12.00 per hour in addition to his
responsibilities as a Maintenance Worker.
10.
John Dunne will serve as a Substitute custodian at
the rate of $12.00 per hour in addition to his
responsibilities as a Maintenance Worker/Grounds
Keeper.
11.
Robert Mayer, Cafeteria Worker, effective November
12, 2007 at the rate of $10.00 per hour. NOTE: Mr.
Mayer is being hired pending completion of his preemployment paperwork.
12.
Colleen Knowles, Substitute Cafeteria Worker,
effective November 12, 2007 at the rate of $9.50 per
hour. NOTE: Ms. Knowles is being hired pending
completion of her pre-employment paperwork.
13.
Cynthia Phipps will serve as a Substitute Custodian at
the rate of $12.00 per hour in addition to her
responsibilities as a Cafeteria Worker.
IX.
New Business
A.
Personnel
3.
General
a.
Unpaid Leave of Absence
1.
b.
Sara Vaccaro requests an extension of her unpaid
leave of absence terminating June 30, 2007.
Degree Advancement
1.
Recommend the Board approve the following
personnel for Degree Advancement and adjust
their salaries accordingly effective August 27,
2007:
Dora Mead
Douglas Gramo
c.
d.
MEQ/Step 11
MEQ/Step 8
Rescind Supplemental Contracts
1.
Rescind appointment of Carol Shapero as New
Teacher Mentor, Ms. Shapero will not be serving as a
Mentor for the 2007-2008 school year.
2.
Rescind appointment of Michelle Kirk as New
Teacher Mentor, Ms. Kirk will not be serving as a
Mentor for the 2007-2008 school year.
Supplemental Contracts
1.
Recommend Board approval of the Penncrest High
School Winter Athletic Supplemental contracts for the
2007-2008 school year. See Attachment B
2.
Recommend Board approval of the Springton Lake
Middle School Winter Athletic Supplemental contracts
for the 2007-2008 school year. See attachment C
3.
Recommend Board approval for the following
Penncrest High School personnel to serve as Event
Chaperones for the 2007-2008 school year at the rate
of $55.00 per event:
Mary Rached
Larry Powell
Diane Steward
IX.
New Business
A.
Personnel
3.
General
d.
Supplemental Contracts
4.
Recommend Board approval for the following
Penncrest High School personnel to serve as Night
School Teachers at the rate of $40.00 per hour:
Samantha Abelson
Dora Mead
Kathleen Rauch
Mark Samilenko
5.
Jean McPheeters, KIDS Club Sponsor, Rose Tree
Elementary for the 2007-2008 school year at the
annual salary of $402.00.
6.
Kathleen Dooner, HOME Club Sponsor, Media
Elementary for the 2007-2008 school year at the
annual salary of $402.00.
7.
Jeanette
Verdeur,
Chorus
Sponsor,
Media
Elementary for the 2007-2008 school year at the
annual salary of $1,072.
8.
Christiana Kuntz, New Teacher Mentor for the 20072008 school year at the annual salary of $1,015.
9.
Michael Bury, Chess Club Sponsor, Glenwood
Elementary for the 2007-2008 school year at the
annual salary of $134.
10.
Matthew Moore, Chess Club Sponsor, Rose Tree
Elementary for the 2007-2008 school year at the
annual salary of $134.
11.
Enoch Stevenson, Saturday Detention, Penncrest
High School for the 2007-2008 school year at the rate
of $25.45 per hour.
12.
Heather Reed, (.5) New Teacher Mentor for the 20072008 school year at the annual salary of $507.50.
IX.
New Business
A.
Personnel
3.
General
d.
Supplemental Contracts
13.
e.
f.
Michele Woodward, (.5) New Teacher Mentor for the
2007-2008 school year at the annual salary of
$507.50.
Salary Change
1.
Harry Protzmann, salary correction form $94,240 to
$108,938 effective July 1, 2007 through July 18,
2007.
2.
Lisa Casey, Cafeteria Worker, from $10.50 per hour
to $11.00 per hour effective September 4, 2007.
Other
1.
Recommend Board approval of the Agreement
Between Rose Tree Media School District and the
Bus Drivers/Custodial Maintenance Association July
1, 2007 through June 30, 2010. See Attachment D
2.
Recommend Board approve the following net
share amounts to be distributed among food
service workers for the 2006-2007 school year:
Alonso, Dawn
Bendak, Linda
Anderson, Aimee
Berner, Carl
Cartwright, Dolores
Casey, Lisa
Clements, Jennifer
Connell, Amy
Duncan, Christine
Eckerd, Joyce
Ettien, Elisa
Gildea, Patricia
Grant, Jeanette
Hoppus, Suzanne
Iannucci, Catherine
King, Deborah
$1,117
$1,358
$1,113
$1,002
$1,413
$1,020
$1,215
$1,067
$1,106
$1,674
$1,762
$2,336
$1,346
$1,138
$602
$1,015
Krynski, Elaine
Lejman, Cathy
Lomas, Christina
Lorenz, Louise
Netwall, Laura
Pedrick, Andrea
Phipps, Cynthia
Powers, Stephanie
Schoenberger, Sandra
Simpson, Kathleen
Steward, Diane
Swantek, Diane
Tyson, Debra
Van Leer, Marquerite
Yachetti, Lois
$891
$520
$1,097
$2,126
$1,636
$1,201
$1,034
$1,238
$1,221
$899
$1,200
$1,211
$1,106
$1,150
$1,185
IX.
New Business
B. Overnight Trips
1.
Penncrest High School Cheerleaders to Orlando, Florida
Resolve, that the Board approve the UCA Cheerleading National
Championship overnight trip to Orlando, Florida.
Background
The Penncrest High School Cheerleaders are anticipating
qualifying for the National Championship in Orlando, Florida 2/7/08
- 2/11/08. The student cost is $650 per student. The cost to the
district is $1,450 for flights and substitutes. This item was discussed
at the November 2007 Pupil Services Committee Meeting.
2.
Penncrest Concert Choir to Lake George and Queensbury, New
York
Resolve, that the Board approve the Concert Choir overnight trip to
Lake George, New York and Queensbury, New York.
Background
The concert choir will perform a concert and participate in a
workshop with a professor of music from a local university in Lake
George and Queensbury, New York on 2/7/08 – 2/10/08. The
student cost is $500. The cost to the district is $75 for one day of
substitute coverage. This item was discussed at the November
2007 Pupil Services Committee Meeting.
3.
Penncrest Students to Washington, D.C.
Resolve, that the Board approve the Close Up overnight trip to
Washington D.C.
Background
Students tour Washington D.C. neighborhoods and participate in
workshops around the capital city from 1/27/08-1/31/08. Student
cost is $1,346.00. The potential cost to district for the teacher is
$1,346 based on student registration and $300 for substitute
coverage for a total district cost of $1,646. This item was discussed
at the November 2007 Pupil Services Committee Meeting.
IX.
New Business
B.
Overnight Trips
4.
Penncrest High School Student Leadership to Stroudsburg, PA
Resolve, that the Board approve the Student Leadership Training
Retreat to Stroudsburg, PA.
Background
Rick Gregg will lead a group of 125 students through leadership
development activities in Stroudsburg, PA on 12/1/07 – 12/3/07.
The students will be selected to represent grades 9-12 and
members of diverse groups of students. The trip will be funded
through an existing student activity fund. Student cost will be
approximately $30.00. The cost to the district is $675.00 for
substitute coverage. This item was discussed at the November
2007 Pupil Services Committee Meeting.
C.
Policies
1.
Policy #918 Sponsorships and Partnerships – First Read
This is the first reading of Policy #918 Sponsorships and
Partnerships and does not require a vote.
Background
This policy was discussed at the November Committee Meeting.
See Attachment E
APPENDIX X
X.
Finance
A.
Purchasing - None
B.
General
1.
Capital Projects – SLMS Project Debt Issuance
Resolve, that the Board approve the issuance of $15 million
General Obligation Debt to be issued through the Delaware
Valley Regional Finance Authority in conjunction with the
forward bond agreement that was put into place on April 17,
2006. See Attachment F
Background
The Finance Committee has been working with Kenneth Phillips,
Managing Director, RBC Capital Markets, for more than a year to
advance the Springton Lake School additions and renovations project.
2.
Architerra Proposal – Smedley Tract
Resolve, that the Board approve the proposal from Architerra, p.c.
Professional Services for PCHS - Smedley Tract Athletic Field
Development, Constructional Bid Packaging and Construction
Observation in an amount not to exceed $45,000. See Attachment G.
Background
This was discussed at the November 20, 2007 Operations
Meeting.
3.
Media Youth Wrestling Program – Sunday Building Use
Media Youth Wrestling Program is requesting the use of the
Penncrest High School Gym and Auxiliary Gym, on Sunday,
February 3, 2008 from 6:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Background
This was discussed at the November 20, 2007 Operations
Committee Meeting.
1
11/29/07
APPENDIX X
IX.
Finance
B.
General
4.
Change Orders
Change orders are acted upon in accordance with
Resolution 1997-98 - 124, approved by the School Board of
Directors on April 23, 1998:
Resolve, that the Board approve the following change orders
CO# E1 - Burkey Construction Co.
Springton Lake Elevator Replacement Project
Add three (3) fluorescent lay-in light fixtures
in elevator lobbies per new code requirements
$ 674.00
Add one (1) wall mounted light fixture in elevator
shaft per new shaft lighting code requirement
$ 250.00
Delete rewiring of telephone panel – work
performed by RTMSD contractor
($ 3,500.00)
Delete fire alarm system panel tie-in – work
performed by RTMSD contractor
Total Change Order Decrease
($ 800.00)
($ 3,403.00)
CO #1 - Five Star, Inc.
Springton Lake Chilled Water Piping &Equipment Phase II
Relocate existing gymnasium exit signs
$
982.97
Install 6 code compliant duct detectors to three
Existing air handling units
$ 8,941.28
Additional wiring, parts & labor to complete duct
Detector installation
$ 1,332.89
Wall patching requested by owner
Total Change Order Increase
$ 1,020.97
$ 12,278.11
Background
These change orders were discussed at the November 20, 2007
Operations Committee Meeting.
2
11/29/07
APPENDIX X
IX.
Finance
B.
General
5.
Kate Phelan Williams – Dental Hygienist
Resolve, that the Board rescind the agreement with Kate
Phelan Williams for dental hygiene services for $2,000.
Background
Our Dental Hygienist is not able to fulfill the contract based
on additional work commitments. This item was discussed
at the November 2007 Pupil Services Committee Meeting.
3
11/29/07
No. 609
Attachment A
SECTION:
FINANCES
TITLE:
INVESTMENT OF
DISTRICT FUNDS
ADOPTED:
REVISED:
609. INVESTMENT OF DISTRICT FUNDS
1. Purpose
It shall be the policy of the Board to optimize its return through investment of cash
balances in such a way as to minimize noninvested balances and to maximize return
on investments.
The primary objectives of investment activities, in priority order, shall be:
Legality - All investments shall be made in accordance with applicable laws of
Pennsylvania.
Safety - Safety of principal shall be of highest priority. Preservation of capital in
the portfolio of investments shall be ensured through the mitigation of credit
risk and interest rate risk.
Liquidity - Investments shall remain sufficiently liquid to meet all operating
requirements that are reasonably anticipated. A fiscal year operations
anticipated cash flow shall be developed so that investments can be made as
early as possible, with maturities concurrent with anticipated cash demands.
Yield - Investments shall be made with the objective of attaining a marketaverage rate of return throughout the budgetary and economic cycles, taking
into account the investment risk constraints and liquidity needs.
2. Authority
SC 440.1, 621,
622, 623
All investments of the school district made by an officer and/or employee of the
district shall be made in accordance with this policy and a Board-approved
investment program.
3. Definitions
Short-term - any period thirteen (13) months or less.
Long-term - any period exceeding forty-eight (48) months' duration.
Mid-range - any period between short-term and long-term.
Page 1 of 6
609. INVESTMENT OF DISTRICT FUNDS - Pg. 2
Concentration of credit risk - the risk associated with the consolidation of
investments in a single pool, institution, or instrument.
Credit risk - the risk of loss of principal due to the failure of the security issue or
backer of the issue.
Custodial credit risk - the risk of loss associated with consolidation of investments
with a single institution where the district may rely on the institution to hold
investments on behalf of the district or through collateral action when the
instruments are not in the district name.
Foreign currency risk - the risk associated with investment in foreign currency that
is subject to market fluctuation and associated currency conversion.
Interest rate risk - the risk that the market value of securities will fall due to
changes in general interest rates.
Investment program - the specifically enumerated and Board-approved investment
strategy.
4. Delegation of
Responsibility
SC 440.1
The Board shall delegate to a designated individual the responsibility to manage the
district's investment program, in accordance with written, Board-approved
procedures for operation of the investment program.
An annual review of the investment program shall be prepared by the designated
individual, based upon the anticipated cash flow of all district funds, i.e. general,
capital reserve, bond, etc. The investment program shall be submitted to the Board
{ } during the month of _____________.
{ } no later than thirty (30) days after adoption of the annual budget.
{ } no later than sixty (60) days after adoption of the annual budget.
SC 440.1
The designated individual responsible for investments shall report monthly to the
Board the following:
1.
Amount of funds invested.
2.
Interest earned and received to date.
3.
Types and amounts of each investment and the interest rate on each.
Page 2 of 6
609. INVESTMENT OF DISTRICT FUNDS - Pg. 3
4.
Names of the institutions where investments are placed.
5.
Current market value of the funds invested.
{ } Other information required by the Board.
The Board directs the Superintendent to have developed written procedures that will
ensure compliance with this policy. Such procedures shall include a disclosure form
for designated individuals involved in the investment process and/or required written
statements for advisors and bidders.
5. Guidelines
SC 440.1
Investments permitted by this policy are those defined in Section 440.1 of the School
Code, as amended, which are collateralized in accordance with applicable laws.
All securities shall be purchased in the name of the school district, and custody of
the securities shall be specified within the district's investment program.
17 CFR
Part 270
An exception to purchases in the name of the school district is permitted for the
purchase of shares of an investment company that is or conducts business voluntarily
in compliance with SEC section 2a7.
SC 440.1
All investment advisors or bidders shall verify in writing that they have received a
copy of this policy. Such written statement shall indicate that they have read and
understand this policy and all applicable statutes related to school district
investments, along with their intent to comply fully with these requirements.
The district shall require all investment advisors/bidders to submit annually any or
all of the following, as appropriate:
{ } Audited financial statements.
{ } Proof of National Association of Securities Dealers (NASD) certification.
{ } Proof of state registration.
{ } Provide annually the rating from a recognized rating agency.
{ } Other (specify) ______________________.
Page 3 of 6
609. INVESTMENT OF DISTRICT FUNDS - Pg. 4
Disclosure
65 Pa. C.S.A.
Sec. 1101 et seq
Designated officers and employees involved in the district's investment process shall
disclose any personal business activity that could conflict with the proper execution
and management of the investment program or could impair their ability to make
impartial decisions.
Audit
The Board directs that all investment records be subject to annual audit by the
district's independent auditors.
The audit shall include but not be limited to independent verification of amounts and
records of all transactions, as deemed necessary by the independent auditors.
It shall be the responsibility of the investment advisor and/or bidder to maintain
necessary documents to permit independent audit of the district's investments.
Bond Proceeds
53 Pa. C.S.A.
Sec. 8001 et seq,
8224
Bond proceeds shall be invested in accordance with the Local Government Unit
Debt Act and applicable federal and state laws, subject to approval by the solicitor
and/or bond counsel and the School Board.
Investment transactions arising from bond proceeds shall be reported monthly to the
Board, in accordance with this policy.
Compliance With GAAP
SC 218
GASB Stmt 40
The following is intended to guide district investments as limited by Section 440.1
of the School Code:
1. District funds shall not be invested in foreign currency and shall not have any
related risk that would require disclosure pursuant to GASB Statement 40.
2. District investments shall limit the exposure to loss of principal due to market
changes in interest rates. To accomplish this, investments of this nature shall be
limited to not more than
{ } ___ percent of district funds available for investment on any single
maturity date.
Page 4 of 6
609. INVESTMENT OF DISTRICT FUNDS - Pg. 5
3. District investments in authorized instruments that are not backed by the “full
faith and credit” of the federal or state government shall be limited to those with
{ } the highest credit rating available for such instruments issued by a
recognized organization.
{ } the highest two (2) credit ratings available for such instruments issued
by a recognized organization.
{ } Other (specify) _______________________________.
If, after purchase, the rating of any instrument is reduced and is no longer in
compliance with this policy, the individual responsible for district investments
shall
{ } advise the Board at the earliest opportunity of such action and make
recommendations for altering investments.
{ } replace the investment immediately upon receipt of notice of the rating
change and notify the Board of the rating change, action taken and replacement
investment.
{ } Other (specify)___________________________________________.
4. When district funds are invested in any one (1) issuer other than designated
depository accounts (which includes external investment pools), and securities
issued or explicitly guaranteed by the U.S. Government (owned directly by the
district), the amount of the investment shall be
{ } unlimited, but the Board shall be notified of such investment
{ } monthly.
{ } quarterly.
{ } only at time of investment.
{ } limited to _____ percent of total funds available for investment.
5. For purposes of interest rate disclosure in the annual financial report, the method
of determining interest rate risk shall be based on weighted average maturity.
Page 5 of 6
609. INVESTMENT OF DISTRICT FUNDS - Pg. 6
References:
School Code – 24 P.S. Sec. 218, 440.1, 621, 622, 623
Public Officials and Employee Ethics Act – 65 Pa. C.S.A. Sec. 1101 et seq
Local Government Unit Debt Act – 53 Pa. C.S.A. Sec. 8001 et seq, 8224
Investment Companies, Title 17, Code of Federal Regulations – 17 CFR Part 270
Governmental Accounting Standards Board, Statement No. 40
PSBA Revision 3/06
Page 6 of 6
11/20/2007
Attachment B
PENNCREST ATHLETIC SUPPLEMENTALS - WINTER
2007-08
EXPERIENCE STEP
UNIT
RATE
UNITS
SUPPLEMENTAL
SALARY
BASKETBALL BOYS VARSITY COACH
BASKETBALL BOYS ASST COACH
BASKETBALL BOYS ASST COACH
BASKETBALL HEAD FRESH COACH
M. DOYLE
C. GOUSSEAUX
J. RITTER
S. CHICANO
5
5
3
2
2
2
1
1
141
141
134
134
44
31
31
25
$6,204.00
$4,371.00
$4,154.00
$3,350.00
BASKETBALL HEAD GIRLS COACH
BASKETBALL ASST GIRLS COACH
BASKETBALL ASST GIRLS COACH
BASKETBALL FRESH GIRLS COACH
K. NATH*
K. MAZE
L. MOSLEY
S. DASHKIWSKY
1
1
2
1
1
1
1
1
134
134
134
134
44
31
31
25
$5,896.00
$4,154.00
$4,154.00
$3,350.00
INDOOR TRACK BOYS HEAD COACH
INDOOR TRACK BOYS ASSISTANT
INDOOR TRACK GIRLS HEAD COACH
INDOOR TRACK GIRLS ASST COACH
G MUNRO
R. BROWN
J. SMITH
C. RUMMEL
10+
2
1
3
4
1
1
1
159
134
134
134
34
26
34
26
$5,406.00
$3,484.00
$4,556.00
$3,484.00
SWIMMING GIRLS HEAD COACH
SWIMMING BOYS HEADCOACH
DIVING COACH
T. WOOLERY
A. IKELER
M. SCHLAGEL
10+
3
10+
4
1
4
159
134
159
31
31
20
$4,929.00
$4,154.00
$3,180.00
WRESTLING HEAD COACH
WRESTLING ASST COACH
WRESTLING ASST COACH
G. JACOBS
W. KENT
J. BOHL* (.5)
1
2
1
1
1
1
134
134
134
44
15.5
15.5
$5,896.00
$2,077.00
$2,077.00
CHEERLEADING HEAD WINTER COACH
CHEERLEADING ASST WINTER COACH
CHEERLEADING FRESH WINTER COACH
CHEERLEADING FRESH WINTER
J ANDERSON
S. KRAUSE
A. HOFFMAN (.5)
M. LIEBER (.5)
10+
7
3
1
4
3
1
1
159
150
134
134
23
19
9.5
9.5
$3,657.00
$2,850.00
$1,273.00
$1,273.00
* BEING HIRED PENDING COMPLETION OF PREEMPLOYMENT PAPERWORK
11/20/2007
Attachment C
SPRINGTON LAKE WINTER ATHLETIC SUPPLEMENTALS
2007-08
EXPERIENCE
STEP
UNIT
RATE
UNITS
SUPPLEMENTAL
SALARY
BASKETBALL BOYS - 7TH GRADE
BASKETBALL BOYS - 8TH GRADE
B. REILLY
A. VIRTUE
9
5
3
2
150
141
21
21
$3,150.00
$2,961.00
BASKETBALL GIRLS - 7TH GRADE
BASKETBALL GIRLS - 8TH GRADE
J. DIAZ
P. NORRIS
4
7
2
3
141
150
21
21
$2,961.00
$3,150.00
WRESTLING HEAD COACH
WRESTLING ASST COACH
D. PUCKETT
R. LAVOIE
9
7
3
3
150
150
21
17
$3,150.00
$2,550.00
CHEERLEADING COACH WINTER
ASSISTANT CHEERLEADING COACH
H. YOUNG
Vacant
1
1
134
18
$2,412.00
Attachment D
October 31, 2007
ROSE TREE MEDIA SCHOOL DISTRICT/
ROSE TREE MEDIA BUS DRIVER/CUSTODIAL MAINTENANCE ASSOCIATION
OUTLINE OF NEW/REVISED TERMS OF
COLLECTIVE BARGAINING AGREEMENT
(JULY 1, 2007 - JUNE 30, 2010)
A.
Titles
1.
2.
B.
Change Director of Transportation to Supervisor of Transportation
Change Director of Maintenance and Operations to Supervisor of
Maintenance and Operations
Working Conditions
Article III.
Section P. - Vacancies
No. 5. - Bus Route Bidding - Page 9
(b)
Every bus driver and bus aide who
attends the regular annual bid meeting shall be required to attend
the School District’s transportation business meeting for which
each bus driver and bus aide shall receiver two (2) hours
compensation at the bus driver’s regular hourly pay rate. Every
bus driver who completes the practice run of that bus driver’s bus
route obtained as the result of the bid meeting shall receive two (2)
hours of compensation at the bus driver’s regular hourly pay rate.
Article IV.
Leaves
Section C.
(2)
Doctor’s excuse - page 17
A doctor’s excuse will not be requested for less than three (3) days
of consecutive sick leave. However, when an employee is
absent due to sickness after the employee has used up all
available sick days, the employee will be required to produce a
doctor’s excuse regardless of the length of the absence.
(4)
Sick Leave Buy Back - page 17
Upon termination from employment a full
time employee with a minimum of ten (10) years services with the
School District shall be paid in the following manner for unused
accumulated sick leave:
(a)
1-100 days - $30 per day.
(b)
101-150 days - $35 per day.
(c)
Over 150 days - $40 per day.
The maximum number of days for entitlement to
compensation for unused sick leave shall be 200 days.
Upon termination from employment a part-time employee with a
minimum of ten (10) years service with the School District shall be
paid at the rate of fifty (50%) percent of a full-time employee in
the following manner for unused accumulated sick leave:
(a)
1-100 days - $15.00 per day.
(b)
101-150 days - $17.50 per day.
(c)
Over 150 days - $20.00 per day.
The maximum number of days for entitlement to
compensation for unused sick leave shall be 200 days.
G.
Holidays (new) (p.20)
3.
Article VI.
Starting in the second year of the Agreement, bus
drivers and bus aides shall receive one (1) holiday
designated as Christmas Day. In the third year of the
Agreement, bus drivers and bus aides shall receive two
(2) holidays designated as Christmas Day and New
Year’s Day. Each bus driver and bus aide shall be
compensated at straight time for each holiday based on
each bus driver’s and bus aide’s base hours for that
school year.
Economic Benefits
A.
Wages - page 23
1.
Starting Salaries
(b)
Starting salaries for tradesmen, master
tradesmen, bus mechanics, master bus
mechanics, maintenance employees, custodians
and bus aides shall be at the full rate of pay for
those positions in the School District.
year 2
year 3
2.
(a)
Salary Increases - year 1
3%
3%
3%
4.
Payroll deductions - Delete
Paycheck
direct deposit BD/BA/C-M
Effective January 1, 2008, the School District
shall make a direct deposit of the employee’s biweekly paycheck into the employee’s designated
bank account(s). The employee shall be
responsible to provide the necessary account(s)
information to the School District.
B.
Fringe Benefits - page 25
1.
Health and Hospitalization - “me too”
(a)
Contributions - “me too”
School Year
Percentage
of
Premium
2007-2008
2008-2009
2009-2010
(b)
8%
9%
“Me too”
Medical Coverage
1.a
Plan 1 - Independence Blue Cross Personal
Choice 10/20/70 or equivalent
1.b.
Plan 2 - Independence Blue Cross Personal
Choice 10 or equivalent
1.c.
Plan 3 - Keystone HMO or equivalent
2.
Dental
(a)
Contributions
Employees shall contribute five dollars fifty-five
cents ($5.55) per month toward the premium cost
which shall be paid through payroll deduction.
6.
Disability Income Protection Insurance
Second Paragraph - 12 month employees, during
their first two (2) years of employment, shall be
eligible to receive approximately sixty (60%)
percent of monthly salary to a maximum of $1,000.
This monthly payment shall be for a period up to
one (1) year. Ten month employees will be eligible
to receive this benefit for ten months per contract
year.
9.
Uniforms
The School District shall provide and maintain
uniforms as it current practice for the bus mechanic,
maintenance staff, tradesmen and courier. The
School District shall also provide uniform shirts
for all custodians.
Summer Work Assignment Memorandum
3
- Regular Bus Routes
Summer bus routes known by the Transportation Department shall
be posted on or about the third (3rd) Friday of June each year. Bus
routes will be awarded to bus drivers on the basis of seniority from
among those who sign up and the bus routes they select. Once a
bus route is selected, that bus route may not be dropped in
exchange for a subsequently posted bus route. If additional bus
routes occur, those bus routes will be assigned by seniority from
the remaining bus drivers who have signed up buy have not yet
been assigned a bus route. If a bus driver or bus aide has signed
up for a bus route but has exceeded the use of that driver’s or
aide’s earned sick leave during the regular school year, the
Transportation Department reserves the right not to assign a
summer bus route to that bus driver or bus aide. Bus aides will be
assigned to summer bus routes in the same manner as is done
during the regular school year.
Work in Maintenance
When the Maintenance Department has summer positions
available, the Department will post the positions with the
description of the job duties and responsibilities, the necessary
skills and experience required and the hours and wages for those
positions. The School District reserves the right to fill these
positions through an interview process, not based on seniority.
No bargaining unit members who are 12 month employees in the
School District will be considered for summer positions.
Bus Maintenance and Cleaning
When the Transportation Department has summer work available
for cleaning and maintaining the School District’s school buses,
the Department will post the positions with the description of the
job duties and responsibilities, the necessary skills and experience
required and the hours and wages for those positions. The School
District reserves the right to fill these positions through an
interview process, not based on seniority. No bargaining unit
members who are 12 month employees in the School District will
be considered for summer positions.
4
No. 918
ROSE TREE MEDIA
SCHOOL DISTRICT
Attachment E
SECTION:
COMMUNITY
TITLE:
SPONSORSHIPS
AND PARTNERSHIPS
ADOPTED:
REVISED:
#918 SPONSORSHIPS AND PARTNERSHIPS
Purpose:
The Board of School Directors recognizes that public school districts may
find it to be in their best interest to enter into relationships with business
and non-profit organizations, agencies, or individuals to support academic
programs, in-school events, out of school activities, facility needs, cocurricular programs, facilities, and equipment.
Definitions:
Partnership: A partnership is an agreement between a school or the
School District and a private business or non-profit organization, agency
or individual that fulfills one of the purposes of this policy, wherein the
basis and terms of the relationship are set forth in a written agreement.
Sponsorship: Sponsorship is any payment of money or other economic
benefit to a school or the School District that fulfills one of the purposes of
this policy in exchange for recognition. A written agreement with a school
or the School District specifies the amount of the payment or benefit and
the parameters for the recognition.
Guidelines:
The Board of School Directors encourages partners and sponsors to help
support School District programs and services. A partner or sponsor may
be acknowledged in School District publications which must be approved
by the School District. The acknowledgement must be tasteful and not
minimize or take away from the School District’s role or responsibility for
the activity or service.
All partnerships and sponsorships shall be formalized in a written contract
with terms and duration which are acceptable to and recommended by the
Superintendent and approved by the Board of School Directors.
The Board of School Directors shall consider the approval of a contract if
it will result in substantial benefit to the School District, its schools and
their respective students, and is not inconsistent with the School District’s
mission, policies and goals.
No. 918
No partnership/sponsorship shall provide direct financial gain to School
District employees, students, parents/guardians or School Board members.
All partnership/sponsorship agreements entered into by the School District
must be consistent with all labor contracts, competitive bid requirements
and all applicable federal, state and School District laws, rules, regulations
and policies.
Delegation
of Responsibility:
The Superintendent and/or her/his designee shall establish procedures for
establishing partnerships and sponsorships in the School District, subject
to approval of the Board of School Directors approval which consider the
following factor’s:
1. Educational value to the district or school program.
2. Benefit to students.
3. Equity among the schools of the School District.
4. Benefit to the residents.
5. Past practices.
6. Appropriateness for the entire community.
No. 918
Procedures: Establishing Sponsorships and Partnerships
Authorization
The Superintendent shall recommend to the School Board, in writing, the
proposed partnership or sponsorship giving reasons for entering into the
sponsorship or partnership.
Conditions for
Partnership or
Sponsorship:
Conditions for partnership or sponsorship or shall be detailed in the
agreement. The agreement must include the following:
1.
Description of partnership or sponsorship
2. Benefits to School District, school or community –
Monetary or non-monetary
3. Duration – Clear defined time limit (one time donation or
long-term arrangement)
4.
Right of termination – School Board right to unilaterally
terminate agreement without penalty if partnership or
sponsorship is found to adversely affect students and
educational process
5. Definition of roles – Clearly defined roles, expectations,
rights and responsibilities of School District and partner or
sponsor
6. Expectation of revenue – Specific amounts shall be stated
where possible, or at a minimum, specific projections
7. Exclusive rights – Define limits for partner or sponsor and
School Board
8. Approval of marketing materials – School Board has
right to approve or disapprove following review by
Superintendent or her/her designee
9.
Statement of relationships – Disclose any relationships to
staff, School Board Members or students to sponsor
10.
Compliance with all laws – All sponsorships must
comply with all local, state and federal laws,
ordinances, policies and regulations
11.
Voluntary participation of staff and students –
Agreement must specifically state that participation
of staff and students is voluntary
12.
Consent required for staff and student information –
Agreement must include this
13.
No collection of personal information – State
specifically what categories of personal information
cannot be collected
14.
Curriculum materials approval – School Board has the right
to approve or disapprove in conjunction with the
Superintendent or her/her designee
RESOLUTION
OF THE BOARD OF SCHOOL DIRECTORS
OF THE ROSE TREE MEDIA SCHOOL DISTRICT,
DELAWARE COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
A RESOLUTION THAT AUTHORIZES THE ROSE TREE MEDIA SCHOOL
DISTRICT TO ISSUE THE GENERAL OBLIGATION NOTE, SERIES A OF
2007 IN THE AGGREGATE PAR AMOUNT OF $6,000,000 AND THE
GENERAL OBLIGATION NOTE, SERIES B OF 2007 IN THE AGGREGATE
PAR AMOUNT OF $9,000,000 (COLLECTIVELY THE “NOTES”) AND
APPROVES THE SUBSTANTIAL FORMS OF THE LOAN DOCUMENTS TO
THE DELAWARE VALLEY REGIONAL FINANCE AUTHORITY AND
AUTHORIZES EXECUTION AND DELIVERY OF ALL NECESSARY
DOCUMENTS;
STATES
THE
AMORTIZATION
SCHEDULE
AND
MAXIMUM ANNUAL DEBT SERVICE PAYMENTS; AUTHORIZES AND
AWARDS A TRANSACTION UNDER A QUALIFIED INTEREST RATE
MANAGEMENT AGREEMENT AND AUTHORIZES AND DIRECTS A
FILING TO THE DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNITY AND ECONOMIC
DEVELOPMENT; PLEDGES THE FULL FAITH, CREDIT, AND TAXING
POWER OF THE PARTICIPANT FOR THE TIMELY REPAYMENT OF THE
NOTES, INCLUDING THE REGULARLY SCHEDULED PAYMENTS DUE
UNDER
THE
QUALIFIED
INTEREST
RATE
MANAGEMENT
AGREEMENT; COVENANTS TO PAY ANY TERMINATION PAYMENTS;
CREATES AND APPOINTS A SINKING FUND DEPOSITORY.
670871.1
WHEREAS, the Board of School Directors (the “Board”) of this School District (the
“School District”) by resolution (the “2006 Resolution”), duly adopted on April 17, 2006
heretofore authorized the issuance and delivery of proposed General Obligation Bonds, Capital
Project Series (the “Bonds”), in the aggregate principal amount of Thirty Million Dollars
($30,000,000) to provide funds for and toward capital projects which are defined in the 2006
Resolution; and
WHEREAS, the Department of Community and Economic Development of the
Commonwealth of Pennsylvania heretofore approved the issuance of the Bonds and the
incurrence of the indebtedness, Approval No. GOB-16332 on July 13, 2007; and
WHEREAS, terms and phrases as used in this Resolution and not defined herein shall
have the meaning as set forth in the 2006 Resolution and the Bond Agreement, hereinafter
defined; and
WHEREAS, the 2006 Resolution authorized and approved the substantial form of a
Bond Agreement (the “Bond Agreement”) between this School District and Manufacturers and
Traders Trust Company; and
WHEREAS, in accordance with the Bond Agreement the Board of this School District
desires to enter into a Supplemental Agreement thereto in the form of a Loan Agreement, dated
as of December 17, 2007 (the “Loan Agreement”) between the Delaware Valley Regional
Finance Authority (Bucks, Chester, Delaware and Montgomery Counties, Pennsylvania)
(“DVRFA”) and this School District; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to the Loan Agreement, this School District will issue its General
Obligation Note, Series A of 2007 in the aggregate par amount of $6,000,000 and its General
2
Obligation Note, Series B of 2007 in the aggregate par amount of $9,000,000 (collectively the
“Notes”); and
WHEREAS, RBC Dain Rauscher, Inc., doing business as RBC Capital Markets (the
“Purchaser”) of the Bonds has or will consent to the issuance of the Notes as a part of their
purchase of the Bonds; and
WHEREAS, the 2006 Resolution provides that the Notes are to be secured by the pledge
of the full faith, credit and taxing power of this School District as required by the DVRFA’s loan
program (the “Loan Program”); and
WHEREAS, the DVRFA entered into an “Interest Rate Management Agreement”, as
such term is defined in the Local Government Unit Debt Act, 53 Pa. C.S.A. §8001, et seq (the
“Debt Act”), with respect to the DVRFA Bonds (the “DVRFA Swap Agreement”) in order to
provide a more cost effective Loan Program and to allow participants in the Loan Program to
manage interest rate risk more efficiently; and
WHEREAS, Calhoun, Baker Inc. (the “Financial Advisor”) is an “Independent Financial
Advisor,” as such term is defined in the Debt Act, to the DVRFA, and the Financial Advisor has
prepared an “Interest Rate Management Plan” (the “DVRFA Plan”), as such term is defined in
the Debt Act, that has been adopted by the Board of DVRFA; and
WHEREAS, the DVRFA established minimum criteria of long term, senior, unsecured
debt ratings of “Aa3” or higher by Moody’s Investors Service or “AA-” or higher by Standard &
Poor’s for the provider of the DVRFA Swap Agreement, and the Board of the DVRFA found
that the award of the DVRFA Swap Agreement by negotiation in a private sale was in the best
financial interests of DVRFA and the participants in the Loan Program, and the Financial
3
Advisor concluded that the financial terms and conditions of the DVRFA Swap Agreement were
fair and reasonable as of the date of award; and
WHEREAS, this School District wishes to utilize the DVRFA Loan Program by issuing
the Notes, to the DVRFA and, under the terms of the Loan Agreement, this School District will
be obligated to make certain payments under the DVRFA Swap Agreement; and
WHEREAS, The Board of this School District intends to approve and adopt the DVRFA
Swap Agreement as a “Qualified Interest Rate Management Agreement”, as such term is defined
in the Debt Act, with respect to the Notes, and the DVRFA Plan as the Interest Rate Management
Plan required by the Debt Act.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT resolved and adopted BY THE BOARD OF SCHOOL
DIRECTORS OF THE ROSE TREE MEDIA SCHOOL DISTRICT, DELAWARE COUNTY,
PENNSYLVANIA, AND IT IS HEREBY resolved and adopted BY THE AUTHORITY OF
SAID BOARD OF SCHOOL DIRECTORS THAT:
Section 1.
Authorization to Issue the Notes
Pursuant to §8142(a)(2)(ii) of the Debt Act, the weighted average useful life of the
Project exceeds the terms of the Notes. The principal of the Notes shall be amortized to provide
more level, overall annual debt service, pursuant to §8142(b)(2) of the Debt Act. The
amortization of the principal amounts of the Notes shall begin within two years of the date of
issue in accordance with §8142(c) of the Debt Act.
Section 2.
Approval of the Loan Commitment
4
The Board of School Directors, after due deliberation and investigation, hereby
determines that a private sale by negotiation of the Notes to the DVRFA is in the best financial
interests of the School District. The Board of School Directors hereby accepts the Loan
Commitment from the DVRFA, attached hereto, to purchase the Notes at an aggregate price of
$6,000,000 with respect to the Series A Note and $9,000,000 with respect to the Series B from
the proceeds of DVRFA bonds. The School District shall be responsible for paying the DVRFA’s
costs of origination in an amount not to exceed $_________, as directed by the DVRFA’s
Program Administrator upon the issuance of the Notes. The Notes shall be purchased by the
DVRFA on or about December 17, 2007 or in such installments and/or at such other times as the
President or Vice President of the Board of School Directors and the DVRFA’s Program
Administrator shall determine.
Section 3.
Approval of the Forms of the Loan Documents and Authorization to Execute
and Deliver All Necessary Documents
The substantial forms of the Notes, Loan Agreement, Continuing Disclosure Agreement,
and Tax Compliance Agreement (collectively, the “Loan Documents”) attached to the Loan
Commitment are hereby approved. The President or Vice President, and the Secretary are hereby
authorized and directed to execute, attest and deliver the Loan Documents, in the substantial
forms attached to the Loan Commitment, but with such alterations, deletions and additions as the
President or Vice President may approve (such approval to be conclusively established by the
execution of the Loan Documents by the President or Vice President and the attestation thereof
by the Secretary). The President or Vice President and the Secretary also are hereby authorized
and directed (i) to execute, attest and deliver such other certificates, instruments, and agreements
5
(including those required by any institution issuing any financial guaranty insurance policy,
municipal bond insurance policy, letter of credit, or similar instrument) and (ii) to take all actions
that may be necessary or beneficial to issue the Notes.
Section 4.
Amortization Schedule and Maximum Annual Debt Service Payments
The indebtedness of the Notes shall be evidenced by the Notes which shall be in the
denomination of the aggregate par amount of SIX MILLION DOLLARS ($6,000,000) with
respect to the Series A Note and $9,000,000 with respect to the Series B Note. The Notes shall
bear interest (“Interest”) at the rate specified in the Loan Agreement and Notes, the substantial
forms of which are attached to the Loan Commitment. The principal amortization schedule and
maximum annual debt service payments as defined in the Notes and Loan Agreement for
periodic scheduled payments under the Notes (based upon the maximum Interest rate of 15%) are
as shown on Exhibit A attached hereto and made a part hereof.
Section 5.
Authorization and Award of a Qualified Interest Rate Management
Agreement
The School District has incurred indebtedness under the Debt Act which will be issued to
the DVRFA, a public authority, and the School District, by execution of the Loan Documents,
will become obligated for a portion of the DVRFA Swap Agreement equal to the outstanding
principal amount of the Notes. The Board of School Directors hereby accepts and adopts the
DVRFA Plan as the Interest Rate Management Plan fulfilling the requirements of §8281(b)(2) of
the Debt Act. The Board of School Directors hereby accepts and ratifies the minimum criteria
used by DVRFA to select the provider of the DVRFA Swap Agreement and hereby accepts and
ratifies the award of the DVRFA Swap Agreement in a private sale by negotiation. The Board of
6
School Directors hereby authorizes and awards the DVRFA Swap Agreement as the Qualified
Interest Rate Management Agreement with respect to the Notes, pursuant to §8281(a)(2) of the
Debt Act. The Board of School Directors hereby authorizes and directs the filing, to the
Department of Community and Economic Development (“DCED”) within fifteen days of
adoption, of a certified copy of this Resolution and the following documents, attached hereto, in
accordance with §8284(a)(1) of the Debt Act:
(a)
Form of the Loan Agreement to be executed by the School District and DVRFA,
(b)
DVRFA Swap Agreement, the Qualified Interest Rate Management Agreement
pursuant to §8281(b)(1) of the Debt Act,
(c)
DVRFA Plan, the Interest Rate Management Plan pursuant to §8281(b)(2)(ii) of
the Debt Act, and
(d)
Finding of the Financial Advisor that the financial terms and conditions of the
DVRFA Swap Agreement were fair and reasonable as of the date of the award by
DVRFA, pursuant to §8281(e)(5) of the Debt Act.
Section 6.
Obligations of the School District Related to the Qualified Interest Rate
Management Agreement
The School District’s obligations related to the DVRFA Swap Agreement are set forth in
the Loan Agreement. In accordance with §8281(c) of the Debt Act:
1) The School District pledges its full faith, credit, and taxing power to make any
scheduled payments related to the DVRFA Swap Agreement and covenants to budget,
7
appropriate, and pay any termination payment (the “Termination Payment”) that may
be due under the DVRFA Swap Agreement.
2) The notional amount of the DVRFA Swap Agreement related to the Notes is equal to
the outstanding principal amount of each of the Notes.
3) The scheduled term of the School District’s obligations related to the DVRFA Swap
Agreement ends on February 25, 2023.
4) The School District’s obligations under the DVRFA Swap Agreement end when the
School District repays or prepays the amounts outstanding under each of the Notes
and the Loan Agreement.
5) The maximum interest rate under the DVRFA Swap Agreement is 15%.
6) The maximum annual net, scheduled payments, not including any Termination
Payment, related to the DVRFA Swap Agreement shall not exceed the maximum
annual debt service payments authorized for each of the Notes.
7) The School District has pledged general revenues for the payment of any obligations
due under the DVRFA Swap Agreement.
8) The DVRFA Swap Agreement requires collateralization if the ratings of the provider
drop below “Aa3” by Moody’s Investor Service and “AA-” by Standard & Poor’s.
9) The School District’s obligations to make payments due on each of the Notes and
scheduled payments related to the DVRFA Swap Agreement are senior to any
obligation for a Termination Payment.
8
Section 7.
Pledge of the Full Faith, Credit, and Taxing Power
The School District hereby covenants, subject to statutory restriction:
(i)
to include all periodic scheduled payments of Interest (the payments allocable to
each of the Notes for the regularly scheduled interest payments on the DVRFA’s
bonds, the regularly scheduled payments due under the DVRFA Swap Agreement,
and Administrative Expenses) and Loan Principal payable under each of the Notes
in the budget of the fiscal year in which such amounts are due and payable,
(ii)
to appropriate such amounts from its taxes and other general revenues, and
(iii)
to pay, or cause to be paid, punctually and duly, such amounts that are due and
payable under each of the Notes and the Loan Agreement at the dates and places
and in the manner stated in the Notes and the Loan Agreement.
For such budgeting, appropriation, and payment, the School District, subject to statutory
restriction, irrevocably pledges its full faith, credit, and taxing power. As provided by the Debt
Act, this covenant shall be specifically enforceable.
Section 8.
Covenants for Termination Payments
The School District hereby covenants, subject to statutory restriction:
(i)
to include the amounts for Termination Payments due under the DVRFA Swap
Agreement for each fiscal year in which such Termination Payments are payable in its
budget for that year,
9
(ii)
to appropriate such amounts from its general revenues for the payment of such
Termination Payments, and
(iii)
to duly and punctually pay or cause to be paid from its sinking fund or any other of its
revenues or funds the Termination Payments at the dates and places and in the manner
stated in the Participant Note and the Loan Agreement.
Pursuant to §8129 of the Debt Act, in the event of a payment default by the School District, the
Termination Payments shall constitute “unfunded debt.”
Section 9.
Sinking Fund Depository
The Board of School Directors hereby amends the 2006 Resolution for purposes of
issuing the Notes and finds and acknowledges that under the terms of the Loan Agreement,
Commerce Bank, N.A. (the “Bank”), or its successors, shall serve and is hereby appointed as the
Sinking Fund Depository, shall maintain separate accounts, subaccounts and subfunds for
Repayments (as defined in the Loan Agreement) to be made by the School District until each of
the Notes is paid in full. These accounts, subaccounts and subfunds shall, collectively, constitute
the “Sinking Fund” required by the Debt Act for the Notes. The Board of School Directors hereby
authorizes, empowers, and directs the President or Vice President and the Secretary to contract
with the Bank by the execution of the Loan Agreement to serve as Sinking Fund Depository for
the Notes.
Section 10.
Legal Advertisements
The Board of School Directors hereby ratifies and directs the advertisement of a summary
of this Resolution as finally adopted.
10
Section 11.
Conflicting Resolutions
All resolutions or parts of resolutions not in accord with this Resolution are hereby
repealed insofar as they conflict herewith.
11
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, we, the undersigned authorized officials of the Rose Tree
Media School District have hereunto set our signatures and affixed hereto the Seal.
ROSE TREE MEDIA SCHOOL
Delaware County, Pennsylvania
DISTRICT
____________________________________
President of the Board of School Directors
[SEAL]
ATTEST:
_______________________
Secretary