ROSE TREE MEDIA SCHOOL DISTRICT
BOARD OF SCHOOL DIRECTORS
Informational Session
December 21, 2006
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
December 21, 2006
8:00 p.m.
AGENDA
I.
Call to Order
II.
Approval of Minutes
A.
B.
C.
III.
Kortne Mazzella and Christine Hamilton – Breast Cancer Fundraiser
Lorraine Bradshaw – Architect for Mall School
Nancy Fronduti – Former School Board President
"Choice Voices" - 6th Grade Select Choir under the direction of Sue
Knipel
Reports
A.
B.
C.
D.
VI.
Legislative Meeting of November 30, 2006
Board Reorganization – December 5, 2006
Bid Opening Springton Lake Elevator Replacement – December 5, 2006
Educational Presentation
A.
V.
Pledge of Allegiance
Presentations and Awards
A.
B.
C.
IV.
Roll Call
School Reports
Superintendent’s Report
Solicitor’s Report
President’s Report
Scheduled Presentations (Limited to Five Minutes Each)
A.
B.
C.
D.
RTMEA
RTM Education Foundation
Healthy Communities Initiative
Tax Study Commission Presentation and Recommendation
VII.
Unscheduled Presentations (Limited to Three Minutes Each)
A.
VIII.
Old Business
A.
IX.
Policy #815 – Acceptable Use of RTM Network Resources – See
Attachment A
New Business
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
X.
Rose Tree Media Residents
Personnel
1.
Terminations
a.
Professional
b.
Non-Instructional
2.
Nominations
a.
Professional
b.
Non-Instructional
3.
General
a.
Classification Change
b.
Unpaid Leave of Absence
c.
Supplemental Contracts
d.
Salary Change
e.
Create New Position
f.
Other
Overnight Trips
1.
Penncrest Close Up – Washington DC
Policy Revisions
1.
Policy #118 – Independent Study - First Read – Attachment B
2.
Policy #911 – News Media Relations – First Read – Attachment C
New Program
1.
Educational Resource Center
Insurance
1.
National Insurance Services of Wisconsin, Inc.
Finance
A.
B.
Purchasing
1.
Bid Awards
a.
Springton Lake Middle School – Sewer Connection
b.
Springton Lake Middle School – Elevator Replacement
c.
Transportation Department – New Construction – Bus Yard
Lights
d.
Access Control Systems
General
1.
Change Orders
a.
Media Elementary School - Wall Restoration
b.
Transportation Department – New Construction
2.
Vanguard School Contract
C.
D.
XI.
3.
American Association for Physical Activity and Recreation (AAPAR)
Financials for November 2006
Bill lists for November 2006
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 January 25, 2006, 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
December 1, 2006
Minutes of the November 30, 2006 Legislative Meeting
I. Call to Order
Roll Call
Board Members in Attendance:
Nancy Fronduti, Board President
Stacey Benson,Vice President
William Campbell
Linda Fox
Nancy Mackrides
Jeffrey Pettit
Veronica Barbato
William Montgomery
William O’Donnell
Pledge of Allegiance
Student Board Members:
Mike Peche
Courtney O’Conner
Sara Sunshine
Lepsi Jha
Also in attendance:
Denise Kerr, Super. of Schools
Ken Batchelor, Principal, PCHS
Meg Barney, R&D Specialist
Pat Barta, Supv. Spec. Ed. Elem.
Pete Barry, Ass’t. Principal, SLMS
Bill Bennett, Principal, ILE
Valerie Burnett, Dir.of Pupil Serivces
Anne Callahan, Dir. of Human Resources
Ken Curran, Psychologist
Ben Danson, PCHS RTMEA Pres.
Bernadette Dacanay, Home & School Vis.
Joe Diantonio, Athletic Director
William Dougherty, Principal, GWE
Susan Evans, Ass’t Principal, PCHS
Angela Gilbert, Teaching & Learning Elem.
Ron Harris, Network Specialist
Ralph Harrison, Assist. Princ. PCHS
Joanne Horan, Assist. Princ. SLMS
Mack Johnson, Management Sys. Admin.
1
Judy Jalbert, Psychologist
Bonnie Kinsler, Acting Transp. Dir.
Maria Kotch, Princ. Media Elem.
Patti Linden, Dir. of Tech. & Infor.
John Lohn, Ass’t Principal, PCHS
Anthony Lombardo, Assess. Info. Sci.
Sharon Learn, Board Secretary
Kim McCann, Info. Tech. Specialist
Danielle Penza, Accountant
Harry Protzmann, District Engineer
Roxanne Schupp, Super. Business Oper
Learning/Second. Educ.
Sandra Shacklady White, Second.
Super.of Spec. Educ.
Ellen Sosangelis, Principal, RTE
Steve Taylor, Dir. Teaching & Learning
Secondary
Thomas Kelly, Solicitor
11/30/06
The Legislative Meeting of the Board of School Directors of the Rose Tree Media School
District was held on Thursday, November 30 2006, at Springton Lake Middle School. The
meeting was called to order at 8:00 p.m. by President Fronduti.
II.
Approval of Minutes
A.
B.
Legislative Meeting Minutes of October 26, 2006
Special Meeting – November 14, 2006
Mrs. Mackrides moved and Mrs. Fox seconded a motion to adopt the
following resolution:
RESOLUTION: 2006-2007 - 42
Resolve, that the Board approve the Legislative Meeting Minutes of
October 26, 2006.
Further resolve, that the Board approve the Special Meeting Minutes of
November 14, 2006.
The aforegoing resolution was declared adopted by the Chair, the vote being:
AYES:
NAYS:
III.
Presentations & Awards
A.
IV.
Nancy Fronduti, Linda Fox, Nancy Mackrides,
Stacey Benson, Jeffrey Pettit, William Campbell,
William Montgomery, Veronica Barbato, William O’Donnell
None
None
Indian Lane Ink – School Newspaper showcase
Mr. Bill Bennett – Introduction. The presenters are Mrs. Rosemary Angelina,
Mrs. Denise Clair, Mrs. Liz Tumolo, Margaret Howe-Consiglio, Dyanna Cramer,
Nate Fleming, Alex Tumolo, Julia Kline, Lauren Angelina and Teddy Clair
V.
Reports
A.
B.
C.
D.
School Reports – In official Legislative Minutes of November 30, 2006
Superintendent’s Report - In official Legislative Minutes of
November 30, 2006
Solicitor’s Report - In official Legislative Minutes of November 30, 2006
President’s Report - In official Legislative Minutes of November 30, 2006
2
11/30/06
VI.
Scheduled Presentations (Limited to Five Minutes Each)
A.
B.
C.
RTMEA – Ben Danson, President
RTM Education Foundation – Dr. Meg Barney, Exec. Director
Healthy Communities Initiative – Dana Riker, Director
VII.
Unscheduled Presentations (Limited to three minutes each)
VIII.
Old Business
A.
B.
Policy Review
Energy Policy
Mrs. Barbato moved and Mrs. Mackrides seconded a motion to adopt
The following resolution:
RESOLUTION: 2006-2007 - 43
1.
Policy #108 Adoption of Textbooks
Resolve that the Board approve the revised Policy #108 Adoption of
Textbooks. See Attachment A in Official Legislative Minutes of
November 30, 2006.
2.
Energy Policy – Third Draft
Further resolve, that the Board approve the third draft of the Energy
Policy . (See Attachment E in Official Legislative Minutes of
November 30, 2006.)
The aforegoing resolution was declared adopted by the Chair, the vote
being:
AYES:
NAYS:
Nancy Fronduti, Linda Fox, Nancy Mackrides,
Stacey Benson, Jeffrey Pettit, William Campbell,
William Montgomery, Veronica Barbato,
William O’Donnell
None
3
11/30/06
IX.
New Business
A.
Personnel
1.
Terminations
a.
Professional
b.
Non-Instructional
2.
Nominations
a.
Professional
b.
Non-Instructional
3.
General
a.
Classification Change
b.
Unpaid Leave of Absence
c.
Degree Advancement
d.
Rescind Supplemental Contract
e.
Supplementals – See Attachments B & C
f.
Salary Corrections
g.
Create New Position
h.
Other
Mr. Montgomery moved and Mrs. Mackrides seconded a motion
to adopt the following resolution:
RESOLUTION: 2006-2007– 44
Resolve, that the Board approve the following Personnel
section:
1.
Terminations
a.
Professional
1.
b.
Marlin Stevens, Elementary Guidance Counselor,
resignation, effective November 3, 2006.
Non-Instructional
1.
Robert Young, Personal Instructional Assistant,
Support Staff II, termination, effective November 3,
2006. Mr. Young will not be continued beyond his
probationary period.
2.
Charlotte Schenkel, Support Staff II, Rose Tree
Elementary, resignation effective November 2,
2006.
3.
Joyce Galdo, Support Staff II, Penncrest High
School, retirement effective November 17, 2006.
4.
Scott, James, Custodian, Penncrest High School,
resignation effective November 17, 2006.
4
11/30/06
2.
Nominations
a.
b.
Professional
1.
Lovinda Weaver, ESL Teacher, effective November 20,
2006, at the annual salary $42,762, Bachelor’s/Step 5.
Ms. Weaver received her Bachelor’s Degree from Point
Park University in Pittsburg. She is assigned to Media
and Glenwood Elementary Schools. This is a new
position. NOTE: Ms. Weaver is being hired pending
completion of her pre-employment paperwork.
2.
Jeanette Verdeur, Long Term Substitute Music Teacher,
effective October 30, 2006, at the annual salary of
$41,794, Bachelor’s/Step 1. Ms. Verdeur received her
Bachelor’s Degree from West Chester University. She is
assigned to Media Elementary School replacing Sara
Vaccaro who is on leave. NOTE: Ms. Verdeur is being
hired pending completion of her pre-employment
paperwork.
3.
Jessica Hilden, Elementary Counselor, effective
November 29, 2006, at the annual salary of $45,294,
Master’s/Step 1. Ms. Hilden received her Bachelor’s
Degree from Dickinson College and her Master’s Degree
from Villanova University. She is assigned to Rose Tree
Elementary replacing Marlin Stevens who resigned.
NOTE: Ms. Hilden is being hired pending completion of
her pre-employment paperwork.
Non-Instructional
1.
Kathleen Archer, Regular Part-Time Cafeteria Worker,
effective October 27, 2006, at the rate of $9.77 per hour.
Ms. Archer is assigned to Springton Lake Middle School.
NOTE: Ms. Archer is being hired pending completion of
her pre-employment paperwork.
2.
Jason Keeley, Substitute Bus Driver, effective November
20, 2006 at the rate of $18.55 per hour. Mr. Keeley is
assigned to the Transportation Department. NOTE: Mr.
Keeley is being hired pending completion of his preemployment paperwork.
5
11/30/06
3.
2.
Sheila Hollinger, Substitute Bus Driver, effective
November 20, 2006, at the rate of $18.55 per hour. Ms.
Hollinger is assigned to the Transportation Department.
NOTE: Ms. Hollinger is being hired pending completion of
her pre-employment paperwork.
General
a.
b.
Classification Change
1.
Charles Hall, from Substitute Bus Driver to New Bus
Driver, effective September 20, 2006.
2.
Nicholas Polidori, from Substitute Bus Driver to New Bus
Driver, effective October 17, 2006.
Unpaid Leave of Absence
1.
c.
Alexandra Perilli has requested an extension of her
Unpaid Leave of Absence through June 30, 2007.
Degree Advance
1.
Recommend Board recognize the following personnel for
degree advancement and adjust their salaries
accordingly effective August 28, 2006:
Suzanne Yanchek
Laura Feliciani
Jeffrey Davies
d.
Permanent Cert.
Permanent Cert
Permanent Cert
Rescind Supplemental Contracts
1.
Megan Ostien, (.5) Newspaper Sponsor, will not be
taking the position.
2.
Suzanne Yanchek, (.5) Newspaper Sponsor, will not be
taking the position.
6
11/30/06
A.
Personnel
3.
General
e.
Supplementals (continued)
1.
Recommend Board approval for the following personnel
to serve as Homebound Instructors for the 2006-2007
school year at the rate of $41.00 per hour:
E. Battista
T. Bendistis
T. Brown
D. Dachiu
D. Diaz
M. Fisher
M. Goebel
C. Grassano
M. Hart
E. Petrucci
T. Long
M. Edelman
2.
C. Koontz
M. Ludwig
A. Moran
M. Naylor
C. Nietz
M. Paikoff
E. Powell
P. Proetto
D. Schnaars
J. Goldman
K. Maguire
S. Hindenach
L. Sitkowski
D. Storey
S. Sweeney
C. Taddeo
J. Tareila
J. Wade
K. Warren
J. Williamson
M. Woodward
J. Hampel
J. Gillespie
Recommend Board approval for the following to serve as
Event Chaperones for the 2006-2007 school year at
Penncrest High School at the rate of $55.00 per event:
C. Casner
M. Crouse
E. Ettien
P. Gildea
E. McLaughlin
R. Walls
R. Heckman
J. Smith
S. Dotts
L. Maroldo
C. Miller
L. Blake
L. Cardwell
E. Ettien
D. Matthews
M. Rached
3.
Recommend Board approval of the Penncrest High
School Winter Athletic Supplemental contracts. See
Attachment B in Official Legislative Minutes of
November 30, 2006.
4.
Recommend Board approval of the Springton Lake
Middle School Winter Athletic Supplemental contracts.
See Attachment C in Official Legislative Minutes of
November 30, 2006.
5.
Robert Simpson, ECO Club Sponsor, for the 2006-2007
school year, at the annual salary of $1,032.
7
11/30/06
3.
General
e.
f.
Supplementals (continued)
6.
Judith Ricketts, Communications Coordinator, Springton
Lake Middle School, for the 2006-2007 school year, at
the annual salary of $2,600.
7.
Deana Storey, Newspaper Sponsor, Springton Lake
Middle School, at the annual salary of $2,064.
Salary Corrections
1.
g.
Kathleen Osgood salary correction to $71,553,
Master’s/Step 13. Ms. Osgood’s salary was reported
incorrectly on the June Board.
Create New Position
1.
Personal Instructional Assistant – Support Staff II
Recommend the Board approve the creation of an
additional Support Staff II – Personal Instructional
Assistant position to serve the needs of a student who is
attending Media Elementary School.
2.
Personal Instructional Assistant – Support Staff II
Recommend the Board approve the creation of an
additional Support Staff II – Personal Instructional
Assistant position to serve the needs of a student who is
attending Glenwood Elementary School.
8
11/30/06
h.
Other
1.
Mabel Deldeo, Temporary Secretary I, effective October
11, 2006, at the rate of $14.35 per hour. She is assigned
to the Education replacing Nancy Owen who is
temporarily assigned to the Registration Office.
2.
Medina Heller, Temporary Clerk I, effective October 23,
2006, at the rate of $13.56 per hour. Ms.Heller is
temporarily replacing Fran Kelly who is on leave.
The aforegoing resolution was declared adopted by the Chair,
the vote being:
AYES:
NAYS:
Nancy Fronduti, Linda Fox, Nancy Mackrides,
Stacey Benson, Jeffrey Pettit, William Campbell,
William Montgomery, Veronica Barbato,
William O’Donnell
None
9
11/30/06
B.
Overnight Trips
1
2.
3.
4.
Springton Lake Middle School - Jack Frost Mountain
Penncrest High School Wrestling Team – Solanco High
School
Penncrest High School Wrestling Team – Easton High School
Penncrest High School Wrestling Team – Cumberland Valley High
School
Penncrest High School Wrestling Team – Cumberland Valley High
School
Mr. Pettit moved and Mr. Montgomery seconded a motion to adopt the
following resolution:
RESOLUTION: 2006-2007 - 45
1.
Springton Lake Middle School - Jack Frost Mountain
Resolve, that the Board approve three overnight trips to Jack
Frost Mountain.
2.
Penncrest High School Wrestling Team – Solanco High
School
Further resolve, that the Board approve an overnight trip to
Solanco High School for a wrestling tournament.
3.
Penncrest High School Wresting team – Easton High School
Further resolve, that the Board approve an overnight trip to
Easton High School for wrestling tournaments.
4.
Penncrest High School Wrestling Team – Cumberland Valley
High School
Further resolve, that the Board approve an overnight trip to
Cumberland Valley High School for wrestling tournaments.
The aforegoing resolution was declared adopted by the Chair,
the vote being:
AYES:
NAYS:
Nancy Fronduti, Linda Fox, Nancy Mackrides,
Stacey Benson, Jeffrey Pettit, William Montgomery,
Veronica Barbato, William O’Donnell
William Campbell
10
11/30/06
C.
Policy Revisions
1.
Policy #815 – Acceptable Use of RTM Network Resources –
First Read
Resolve, that the Board review the Acceptable Use of RTM
Network Resources Policy. This policy was discussed at the
November Technology Committee Meeting. (See Attachment D
In Official Legislative Minutes of November 30, 2006.)
11
11/30/06
X.
Finance
A.
B.
C.
D.
Purchasing
1.
None
General
1.
Change Orders
2.
Budgetary Transfers
3.
Futuristics Research
4.
Chester County Intermediate Unit Middle College High School
5.
Penncrest High School – Stadium – Sound System
6.
Glenwood Elementary School – Kindergarten Playground
7.
Penncrest High School – Proposal for Professional ServicesAthletic Facility Feasibility Study, Soil Trafficking Consultation
8.
Penncrest High School – Sunday Building Use
Financials for October, 2006
Bill lists for October, 2006
Mr. Montgomery moved and Mr. Pettit seconded a motion to adopt the
following resolution:
RESOLUTION: 2006-2007 - 46
A.
Purchasing – None
B.
General
1.
Change Orders
Resolve, that the board approve the following change orders:
Fayette Group, Inc. GC-021
Extra cost for portable bathroom facilities
Extra cost for office /storage trailer
Extra cost for security fencing
Extra supervision accrued due to delay
8% for Overhead & Profit
12
$ 603.50
$1,353.18
$ 203.52
$6,500.00
$ 692.82
11/30/06
X.
Finance
B.
General
2.
Budgetary Transfers
Further resolve, that the Board approve the following budgetary
transfers:
FY 07 - 01
FROM:
AMOUNT:
Fund 10 General Fund
Regular Instruction - Supplies
$1,850
TO:
AMOUNT:
Regular Instruction - Equipment
$1,850
RATIONALE: Transfer needed to purchase generators for
SLMS Science Department.
FY 07 - 03
FROM:
AMOUNT:
Fund 10 General Fund
Guidance Service - Supplies
$1,475
TO:
AMOUNT:
Guidance Services - Travel
$1,475
RATIONALE: Transfer needed for 5 staff members to attend
SAP Training.
FY 07 - 04
FROM:
AMOUNT:
Fund 10 General Fund
Debt Service - Interest on Bonds
$16,762
Building Improvements - Interest on Capital Leases
AMOUNT: $16,762
RATIONALE: Transfer needed for our Capital Lease interest
payments to be allocated properly.
FY 07 - 05 Fund 10 General Fund
FROM:
Debt Service - Principal Pay on Bonds
AMOUNT: $98,788
Building Improvements - Principal on Capital Leases
AMOUNT: $98,788
RATIONALE: Transfer needed for our Capital Lease
principal payments to be allocated properly.
13
11/30/06
X.
Finance
B.
General
2.
Change Orders (cont’d)
FY 07 - 10
FROM:
AMOUNT:
Fund 10 General Fund
Instructional Technology - Equipment
$13,745
Instructional Technology - Supplies
AMOUNT: $13,745
RATIONALE: Transfer needed due to the e-mail archiving
solution originally budgeted in the Capital Fund as a
hardware appliance, however the product needed was a
software solution.
3.
Futuristics Research
Further resolve, that the Board approve a contract with Futuristics
Research to design, pilot, conduct, tabulate, analyze, and
report on a survey of two recently graduated classes of
Penncrest alumni, with a return rate of at least 40%, at a
cost of $11,500.
4.
Chester County Intermediate Unit Middle College High
School
Further resolve, that the Board approve two contracts with the
Chester County Intermediate Unit Middle College High
School for the 2006-2007 school year in the amount of
$14,404 each.
5.
Penncrest High School – Stadium - Sound System
Further resolve, that the Board approve the purchase of a public
address sound system available at a state contract price of
$19,033 from Visual Sound. The district will provide a
trench for the direct burial of loudspeaker cable and a single
dedicated 20amp/120 vac circuit equipped with a double
duplex receptacle.
6.
Glenwood Elementary School - Kindergarten Playground
Further resolve, that the Board approve the Glenwood Elementary
School’s Parent Teacher request to replace the kindergarten
playground with an age appropriate playground at an
approximate cost of $36,000.
14
11/30/06
X. Finance
B.
General
7.
Penncrest High School – Proposal for Professional ServicesAthletic Facility Feasibility Study, Soil Trafficking
Consultation
Further resolve, that the Board approve the proposal form
Architerra for athletic facility feasibility study and soil
trafficking consultation. The proposed fee arrangement is as
follows:
Task One:Soil Trafficking Plan – $ 8,460.00
Task Two:Athletic Facility Construction Documentation
$ 3,210.00
Task Three: Miscellaneous Land Architecture Components
$ 2,380.00
Task Four: Construction Observation Hourly, As Needed
Fees do not include typical reimbursable expenses such as
printing, travel, copying, and photographic costs. The
following hourly rates will apply to this project for Task Four
and any additional services:
Principal Time:
Technical Staff:
Clerical Staff:
8.
$ 100.00 per Hour
$ 35.00 to $ 90.00 per Hour
$ 30.00 to $ 40.00 per Hour
Penncrest High School – Sunday Building Use
Further resolve, that the Board approve the use of the Penncrest High
School wrestling room, small and large gymnasium for the
annual Youth Wrestling tournament on Sunday, February 4, 2006
from 6:00 AM until 4:00 PM.
15
11/30/06
C.
D.
Financials October 2006
Bill Lists October 2006
Further resolve, that the Board approve the following:
Financial Reports
October
October
October
October
2006
2006
2006
2006
Treasurers Reports
Investment Reports
Summary Expenditure Status Report
Revenue Status Report
Bill Lists
October
2006
General Fund Bill List
$1,743,345.97
October
2006
imprest Fund Bill List
$
October
2006
Capital Fund Bill List
$ 216,194.07
October
2006
Future Refunding 1993 Bill List
$
October
2006
Bond Series 2003 Bill List
$ 155,886.73
October
2006
Bond Series 2004 Bill List
$
10,944.02
October
2006
Activities/Special Revenue Fund
$
9,797.25
8,484.00
21,842.18
$2,166,494.22
The aforegoing resolution was declared adopted by the Chair, the vote being:
AYES:
NAYS:
Nancy Fronduti, Linda Fox, Nancy Mackrides,
Stacey Benson, Jeffrey Pettit, William Campbell,
William Montgomery, Veronica Barbato, William O’Donnell
None
16
11/30/06
XI.
Adjournment
Mr. Montgomery moved and Mr. Pettit seconded a motion to adopt the following
resolution:
RESOLUTION: 2006-2007 - 47
There being no further business to come before the Board, the meeting adjourned.
The aforegoing resolution was declared adopted by the Chair, the vote being:
AYES:
NAYS:
Nancy Fronduti, Linda Fox, Nancy Mackrides,
Stacey Benson, Jeffrey Pettit, William Campbell,
William Montgomery, Veronica Barbato, William O’Donnell
None
__________________
Sharon A. Learn
Board Secretary
17
11/30/06
ROSE TREE MEDIA SCHOOL DISTRICT
BOARD OF SCHOOL DIRECTORS
Board Reorganization
I.
Call to Order
December 5, 2006
Roll Call
7:00 P.M.
The Pledge of Allegiance
In Attendance: Veronica Barbato, William Campbell, Linda Fox, Nancy Fronduti,
Nancy Mackrides, William Montgomery, Jeffrey Pettit
Others in Attendance: Denise Kerr, Superintendent, Anne Callahan, Human Resource
Director, Sharon Learn, Board Secretary, Thomas Kelly, Solicitor
II.
The Board is meeting this day for the purpose of reorganization under the
appropriate sections of Article IV of the school Laws of Pennsylvania as amended.
III.
The Board Secretary read the list of legally elected and qualified School Board
Members and the expirations of their terms.
Veronica Barbato
Stacey Benson
William Campbell
Linda Fox
Nancy Fronduti
Nancy Mackrides
William Montgomery
William O’Donnell
Jeffrey Pettit
IV.
December 2009
December 2007
December 2007
December 2009
December 2007
December 2009
December 2009
December 2007
December 2007
Nominations for Temporary President
Mr. Campbell moved and Mrs. Mackrides seconded a motion to adopt the following
resolution:
RESOLUTION: 2006-2007 - 48
Resolve, that Mr. Montgomery is nominated as temporary President.
The aforegoing resolution was declared adopted by the Chair, the vote being:
AYES:
NAYS:
Veronica Barbato, William Campbell, Linda Fox, Nancy Fronduti,
Nancy Mackrides, William Montgomery, Jeffrey Pettit
None
VI.
Nominations for President
Mr. Campbell moved and Mrs. Fronduti seconded a motion to adopt the following
resolution:
RESOLUTION: 2006-2007 – 49
Resolve, that Mrs. Mackrides be nominated as President for the ensuing year.
The aforegoing resolution was declared adopted by the Chair, the vote being:
AYES:
NAYS:
VII.
Veronica Barbato, William Campbell, Linda Fox, Nancy Fronduti,
Nancy Mackrides, William Montgomery, Jeffrey Pettit
None
Nominations for Vice President
Mrs. Fronduti moved and Mrs. Barbato seconded a motion to adopt the following
resolution:
RESOLUTION: 2006-2007 - 50
Revolve, that Linda Fox is nominated as Vice President for the ensuing year.
The aforegoing resolution was declared adopted by the Chair, the vote being:
AYES:
NAYS:
Veronica Barbato, William Campbell, Linda Fox, Nancy Fronduti,
Nancy Mackrides, William Montgomery, Jeffrey Pettit
None
VIII.
Appointment of Solicitor
Mr. Campbell moved and Mrs. Fronduti seconded a motion to adopt the following
resolution:
RESOLUTION: 2006-2007 - 51
Resolve, that Thomas L. Kelly, from the firm of Kelly, Grimes, Pietrangelo & Vakil,
be approved as the District Solicitor for the ensuring year. The solicitor’s retainer
fee will be $7,200 and the hourly fee will be $140.00.
The aforegoing resolution was declared adopted by the Chair, the vote being:
AYES:
NAYS:
IX.
Veronica Barbato, William Campbell, Linda Fox, Nancy Fronduti,
Nancy Mackrides, William Montgomery, Jeffrey Pettit
None
Committee Chairman and Liaison Assignments
The following Committee Chairman and liaison assignments are as follows:
Committee
Chairman/Liaison
Teaching and Learning
Technology
Pupil Services
Personnel
Operations
Finance
DCCC
DCIU
DCIU Legislative
Jeffery Pettit
Linda Fox
Veronica Barbato
Stacey Benson
William Montgomery
William Campbell
Linda Fox
William Montgomery
William Campbell
All Committees are a committee of the entire Board
X.
No other business came before the School Board.
XI.
Motion to Adjourn
Mr. Campbell moved and Mrs. Fox seconded a motion to adopt the following
resolution:
RESOLUTION: 2006-2007 - 52
There being no further business to come before the Board, the meeting was
adjourned.
The aforegoing resolution was declared adopted by the Chair, the vote being:
AYES:
NAYS:
Veronica Barbato, William Campbell, Linda Fox, Nancy Fronduti,
Nancy Mackrides, William Montgomery, Jeffrey Pettit
None
______________________
Sharon A. Learn
Board Secretary
ROSE TREE MEDIA SCHOOL DISTRICT
EDUCATION CENTER
A bid opening was held on December 5, 2006, at 2:00 p.m. in the Education
Center, 308 N. Olive Street, Media, PA 19063.
Present were: Sharon Learn, Chief Operations Officer, Roxanne Schupp,
Supervisor of Business Operations, Harry Protzmann, Engineer, and a
Consolidated Engineer Representative.
Three Bids in the following category were opened and read by Sharon Learn:
Springton Lake Middle School Elevator Replacement
Burkey Construction Company
C. H. Schwertner & Son, Inc.
The Fayette Group, Inc.
Bids will be tabulated and presented to the Board of School Directors.
Sharon A. Learn
Board Secretary
III.
Presentations and Awards
A.
Kortne Mazzella and Christine Hamilton – Breast Cancer
Fundraiser
Resolve, that the Board recognize Kortne and Christine who
served as the student coordinators for the Junior-Senior Powder
Puff Football game.
Background
Kortne and Christine collected permission slips, organized a Tshirt sale, and promoted the event within the school. A total of
$1,800 was raised to benefit the Breast Cancer Research fund.
Over eighty junior and senior girls played in the game which
was heavily attended by the Penncrest student body as well as
the community. The seniors beat the juniors by a score of 8-6.
The Board would also like to thank Ron Baldino, Dave Dages,
Jack Dunne, Mike Jones, and Bruce Otto for their extra efforts in
making this fundraiser such a success.
B.
Lorraine Bradshaw – Architect
Resolve, that the Board recognize Lorraine Bradshaw for her
contribution of architectural services for the Education Resource
Center.
Background
Lorraine generously donated her time, expertise, and
architectural services to support our planning process for the
RTM Educational Resource Center to be housed at Granite Run
Mall. Mrs. Bradshaw met with a number of folks and several
students to gather input regarding their ideas for the design.
She then utilized the current floor plans to redesign the
appropriated space for our alternative school use. We estimate
that these "pro bono" services for this project would cost
between $15,000 and $20,000.
C.
Nancy Fronduti – Former School Board President
Resolve, that the Board recognize Nancy Fronduti for her
dedicated service as President of the Rose Tree Media School
Board.
Background
Mrs. Nancy Fronduti served for three years as our School Board
President. Being a Board Member is tough enough, but serving
as President brings many added responsibilities and pressures,
all of which Mrs. Fronduti assumed with grace, intelligence,
organization, and skill. Nancy gave many extra hours of time
and energy to this position. Her genuine commitment to serving
our students and to being very fiscally responsible has and will
continue to have positive impact for years to come.
EXCELLENCE
TODAY
FOR TOMORROW
SCHOOL REPORT’S – December 2006
GLENWOOD ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Events
Children celebrated Read for 2007 on Friday, December 6. Classrooms throughout the
building chose different ways to celebrate, but the one thing they all had in common was
reading for 2007 seconds!
Teachers utilized the data they received from the MAP testing, DIBELS, and other
classroom tests to determine the needs of each student in their classes. They also
worked in collaborative groups to analyze the materials and methods they have to best
meet the language arts needs of each student.
Glenwood Art Teacher, Keith Sharp; Aide, Adele Winn; Learning Support Teacher, Cathy
Bennett, and students from her class traveled to Lima Estates Retirement Center. The
students and the residents worked together on an intergenerational project to create
holiday themed door ornaments for the retirement center. When finished, students and
residents enjoyed a snack of cookies and juice.
In the spirit of giving Mrs. Imburgia, Mrs. Maher and Mrs. Taylor’ s classes have again
adopted two less fortunate families this holiday season. The teachers have expressed
that although they always appreciate the thoughtfulness and generosity of the holiday
gifts the children bring to them, they ask that the children bring in a gift for a member of
their adopted families in lieu of a gift for the teacher. This project is always well received
and appreciated by everyone. Above all it helps the students learn that sometimes it is
better to give than to receive.
1st Grade
The first grade team will be focusing on Christmas Around the World and Hanukkah for
our study of December holidays. Christmas in Germany, Holland, and the United States
will be discussed, as well as Las Posada in Mexico and St. Lucia Day in Sweden. These
lessons are planned throughout December, beginning Tuesday, December 5, and ending
Thursday, December 21. Some projects we have to look forward to are leaving our
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wooden shoes out for Christmas in Holland, making a menorah and wreath from our
handprints, and learning about the first Advent calendar and Christmas tree.
2nd Grade
The second grade saw a performance of the Elves and the Shoemaker at Media Theater
on December 1, 2006. The students enjoyed the wonderful theatrical experience, and
especially the performances of Glenwood student Tammy Katz and fellow second graders
Bethany Katz and Sarah Hedley.
Various classes used the play as a launching pad to discuss story elements and plots.
Some students played “The Elves and the Shoemaker Jeopardy” on the computer.
Others used a Venn diagram or other graphic organizers to analyze favorite characters.
Students wrote about their enriching experience during Writer’s Workshop. Overall, the
theater was an enjoyable and engaging learning experience for our classes.
3rd Grade
In December, the third grade classes enjoyed hatching chicks through the 4-H
embryology program. Through careful care of the eggs, including routine turning of those
eggs and monitoring of the incubators’ temperatures, all classes enjoyed a successful
hatch. While waiting for the eggs to hatch, the students enjoyed learning about the
development of the embryos inside the egg. Most fun was the two days of excitement as
the chicks made their way into our world. We also got to spend three days with the active
chicks as we watched them get better at walking, eating, and peeping. We were sad to
see them go back to the farm, but we’ll always remember them.
The Winter Solstice is a great book for reading to students this month. It contains facts
and folklore about the shortest day of the year. Students can calculate the amount of
daylight each day during the month. This information can be recorded on a line graph to
show how many minutes of daylight will be lost daily leading up to the shortest day.
4th Grade
Glenwood's fourth grade students will be using KidBiz, a web-based program that is
designed to enhance students' reading comprehension in nonfiction. The program will be
used to instruct students at their instructional level, while widening students' awareness of
current events. Each student is presented daily with an Associated Press article that has
been modified, depending on the students reading level. Students complete the article
and are provided with engaging activities designed to heighten their enthusiasm for
reading.
5th Grade
In language arts, fifth graders at Glenwood are reading a variety of books which tie into
the theme of racism. Books include Maniac Magee and Shoeshine Girl. Students will
focus on making character inferences, comparing and contrasting settings, and
persuasive writing.
The fifth graders will visit the historic Physick and Powel Houses in Old City, Philadelphia
in conjunction with our unit on the early American settlers. In preparation for the field trip,
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students will learn various architectural terms, famous Americans associated with this
period in history as well as make silhouette portraits. During the field trip, students will
explore colonial homes and the daily lives of early Philadelphians. Students will learn
about urban colonial architecture, medicinal practices, clothing, and entertainment.
Reading
Once again I wish to thank the board for their recent continuation of the KidBiz initiative
which was piloted by the elementary Reading Support and Instructional Support teachers
during the school year 2005-2006. My 3rd to 5th grade reading support students enjoyed
the online opportunities offered by the program, and as a reading teacher I became aware
of the resources offered by the program in support of student’s reading in the content
areas along with the program’s focus on important current news events. Additionally, I
found the record keeping allowed both students and teachers to monitor progress and
encourage success. Thank you for your additional funding of the program as you offered
classroom teachers the opportunity to support diversification of reading in the regular
classroom.
AGP
Students in grades 3 and 4 and learning about our National Parks and have chosen one
part in the United States to research and report on. Fifth grade students are learning
about Natural Disasters. Each student has chosen a natural disaster to research and
report on back in their own classrooms.
Glenwood School participated in our annual Thanksgiving food drive for CityTeam in
Chester. Throughout November, Glenwood families contributed canned goods, food
items, toiletries, and frozen turkeys. The food will be used by CityTeam to make holiday
food baskets for needy families in December.
Wellness
The focus on wellness in December for Glenwood was “5 or More a Day.” This refers to
the recommended number of servings of fruits and vegetables in a healthy diet. Students
had the opportunity to taste honeydew and cantaloupe melons prepared and served by
parent volunteers in the cafeteria. Mrs. Taylor, School Nurse, explained to each of the
lunch sessions the reasons why incorporating fruits and vegetables into the diet is part of
a healthy lifestyle, and explained some of the particular health benefits of cantaloupe and
honeydew. The melons were a big hit; the students really loved them. This wellness
initiative is reinforced with a bulletin board in the lobby which challenges us with an
important health message: “Only 20% of Americans get the recommended 5 or more
servings of fruit and vegetables each day. Do you?”
Math Coach
Mr. G’s 5th grade AMP class will be discussing different base numbers, including binary
and base five. Mr. G’s 4th grade AMP class will be delving into the wonderful world of
geometry.
3
INDIAN LANE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
First Grade
We have been quite busy reading as we are now beginning to reach 100 steps in the 100
Book Challenge! Addition and subtraction strategies have been our focus in math this
month. In writing, we have been learning about The Writing Process and have each
produced our first official paragraph. As for holiday celebrations, on November 21st the
children enjoyed participating in the First and Second Grade Friendly Feast like the
Pilgrims and Indians. The students enjoyed healthy snacks while spending quality time
with their classmates and peers.
Second Grade
The second graders went to the Arden Theater to see The BFG. This is a play based on
the book written by Roald Dahl which we read in class as a read aloud. The classes had
a wonderful time visiting an urban community in our area and being able to take
advantage of seeing a "real" play on stage. The children were then able to compare the
two types of literature - a play and a novel.
Fourth Grade
The entire fourth grade will be visiting Lankenau Hospital on Monday, December 18th
in connection with the health curriculum. The students will participate in two educational
programs entitled "The Incredible Machine" and "The Eating Machine." Through these
interactive programs, the students will gain an appreciation of the human body and how it
functions as well as learn the job of the various nutrients contained in the food they eat
and the importance of eating healthy.
Fifth Grade
The fifth grade is preparing for the upcoming Geography Bee that will take place in
January. They will also be making flags out of felt which will be displayed in the
cafetorium while researching different countries around the world.
Chorus Concert
The chorus concert entitled "Celebrate the Season" is scheduled for Tuesday, November
19th. Mrs. Batavio is trying something new this year...every fifth grader will participate.
They will be singing both new and familiar songs as well as playing recorders, chimes,
and boom-whackers. The fifth grade students will be performing twice, once at 2:00 and
again at 7:30.
School-wide
Mrs. Haskell's 5th Grade AMP students created travel brochures of many countries in
conjunction with their study of decimals. Students learned many various monetary values
and how to convert the foreign currency to U.S dollars and cents. All the travel brochures
contained many travel tips involving money, and were presented in booklet form that were
word processed. Many technology skills were developed as well, importing graphics,
word processing, formatting pages, saving work to various sources and internet research.
4
Now available on the Indian Lane website: weekly happenings, information related to the
curriculum (100 Book Challenge), updated pictures of field trips and special events,
Wednesday packet information, volunteer requests, helpful links, important
announcements, and lots more.
Students in all grades at Indian Lane worked very hard to buy feathers for our turkey
friend, Tom. In order to buy a feather for Tom, students were challenged to find words
equaling exactly $1.20 by adding the respective values of all letters of a word when A=1
cent, B=2 cents, C=3 cents, and so on. In a great show of support, many parents,
teachers, staff members, and even a student at Penncrest found and turned in $1.20
words. A total of 55 words worth $1.20 were handed in to Mrs. Hatton and checked by
her learning support students. These words hang proudly on Tom's plentiful feathers for
all to admire. A complete list of $1.20 words handed in can be found on Mrs. Hatton's
website.
Counselor Nancy Palmo and Nurse Debbie Sweeney are spearheading Indian Lane’s
annual holiday giving tree. Members of the Indian Lane community who are in need of
assistance will receive boxes of food and gift cards to area merchants. Parents, students,
and staff send in the food and gift cards and Mrs. Palmo and Mrs. Sweeney make sure
they get to the right people.
Indian Lane will host six student teachers from West Chester University next spring.
Teachers Sue Hendrixson and Karen Venuto assisted Bill Bennett in interviewing the
candidates and recommending the correct grade level and cooperating teacher
placement. While the student teachers gain much needed experience, Indian Lane’s
students benefit greatly from the additional adults in the classrooms.
MEDIA ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
DVMSAC Update
Springton Lake teacher Kathy White gave a presentation to our staff on RTM’s
commitment and involvement in The Delaware Valley Minority Student Achievement
Consortium. She emphasized the high quality of the consortium presentations and the
need to be involved. There was some valuable discussion about teacher expectations as
they pertain to minority students’ achievement.
Planning for Small groups/ Differentiated Instruction
Our continuing conversations about “best practice” have included planning for small group
instruction. Grade levels have focused on this during their common planning time,
curriculum council has had discussions, and The RTM Literacy Council has crafted some
guidelines. This is meaningful work that will positively impact student achievement. First
grade teachers, as an example, have been working on how to best use flexible groups in
their classrooms. They developed a guide for general school aides or others who will be
working with the children in small groups. The RTM literacy coach, Tracie Fritch, has
been helpful in sharing ideas and locating appropriate materials. Mrs. Fritch is also doing
some training with our general school aides who are so anxious to do an excellent job.
5
Physical Education
All students in grades 1-5 continue to work on improving their physical fitness. Students
have also been participating in games and activities that focus on the skills of catching
and throwing. Physical education teacher, Carly Nietz, has organized a floor hockey club.
Music
Much of November focused on songs and activities related to Thanksgiving. The second
graders performed The Navajo Rain Ceremony. Remember those heavy rains we had in
November! Fourth grade learned the note “low D” on their recorders and our fifth grade
continued to prepare for the winter concert. All fifth graders will be participating in our
winter concert on the evening of December 19. Our new music teacher, Jeannette
Verdeur, is doing an outstanding job.
Mustang Review
The second issue of the Mustang review was published this month. The issue was twelve
pages long and was sent home to all families. The newspaper included news from most
classes and special areas as well as a few book reviews, puzzles and games.
Stroud Water Research Center
The fifth grade went to The Stroud Water Research Center in Avondale. At the research
center, the children completed a stream study and explored the plant and animal life of
the area. They used Stroud’s 1,800 acre experimental watershed as a living laboratory to
enrich our current science unit, ecosystems. They sampled macroinvertebrates from the
stream, took readings of temperature and water clarity, tested the ph of the water, and
explored the concept of watersheds. Stroud is a nationally known scientific research
center and a great resource for us.
Title 1 Math Night
Title 1 Math students and their families were invited to a special evening event. The
families were treated to dinner. While the parents met with Dr. Gilbert and Mrs. Kotch, the
children were entertained by children’s performer, Silly Joe. There were lots of prizes
including Silly Joe CD’s, videos, and yo-yos. Everyone who came was a real winner. The
message was that parent involvement makes a difference. Kudos to Sara Brill, Liz
Coulter and Christa Consadene who planned the event.
Friendly Feast
Our second graders had a “friendly feast” to celebrate the spirit of Thanksgiving. Many
parents were involved in the planning and preparation.
PTG Activities
Our PTG planned a holiday craft night for our families. The crafts were terrific and
everyone had a good time. The children could also shop for gifts in the “Little Shoppers’
Shop” that was part of the event. The PTG also sponsored a poinsettia sale and an
entertainment book sale. They recently funded the installation of whiteboards on the third
floor.
Happy Holidays to everyone from The Media school staff.
6
ROSE TREE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Art Room Happenings:
In keeping with their social studies unit, students in grade five were introduced to the art
of tin smithing, and created their own version of a pierced tin lantern in the style of
colonial artisans. They continue to work on their paste paper sketch book covers.
Students in grade four continued their regional study of folk art in Pennsylvania as they
completed their hex signs in the style of the Pennsylvania Germans employing personal
and traditional symbols. They went on to design and construct quilt squares in analogous
and complimentary colors looking to Amish quilters for inspiration as they learned basics
about that culture. Third grade students traveled back in time to Ancient Greece and
Rome and created mosaics, constructed temple ruins with Doric columns and frescos,
and were introduced to ancient myths and mythological creatures. Second grade students
completed their visit to Australia, where they created their own Dreamtime artwork in the
style of Aboriginal artists, then continued on to Italy for a visit to the theatre with
Pinocchio. They drew Pinocchio and Jiminy Cricket onstage with figures overlapping and
extending beyond the edge of the page. Students went on to Germany and created a
seasonal reverse glass two dimensional snow globe painting.
Students in first grade classes painted and collaged landscapes inspired by Vincent Van
Gogh’s Starry Night and Gustav Klimt’s Tree of Life. They returned to still life for a
seasonal study of poinsettias in paint.
Mrs. Sommer, our Math Coach, reports the following:
Grade 1 – We have been introducing and reinforcing concepts and symbols such as the
plus sign, the equal sign, addition, ‘in all’, sum, ‘in total’, and number sentences or
equations. One fun activity was counting spots on dominoes and adding them together.
Grade 3 - We have been reviewing rounding to the nearest 10, 100, and 1000 and have
used our rounding skills to estimate sums and differences. We also have worked with
subtraction with regrouping in problem solving, and reviewed addition and subtraction fact
families. Grade 4 – We have worked with multiplication and division fact families, and
have begun to work with the long division algorithm. We continue to work with money
and making change using two-step problems. Some of the fourth graders were
introduced to factors. Fourth grade is learning the vocabulary for the four basic
operations. They will be quizzed on this material periodically. Grade 5 – We continue to
cycle through concepts such as input/output tables, multiplying with decimals, problem
solving (multi-step problems, guess and check), factors and multiples, and long division.
AMP - Fourth grade Accelerated Math students have completed the unit on decimals
including multiplication and estimation with decimals. They continue to hone problem
solving skills learning strategies like identifying multi-step problems and making a table to
identify patterns and organize data. Fourth grade has entered the world of fractions and
are making friends with new concepts such as GCF, LCD, and Simplest Form. Fifth
grade Accelerated Math students have become decimal experts, working with addition,
subtraction, multiplication, and division of decimals. They are also developing real world
math sense by using percents and decimals to compute tax and discounts. Fifth grade is
also working on their Restaurant Project, in which each student creates a training manual
for their own restaurant. The manual will includes sections such as deciding on your
7
menu, creating a bill or invoice, making change and calculating wages. We will try to
culminate this project with a trip to a restaurant. Stay tuned!
Physical Education Happenings:
For the month of December, students in Dev. K, Dev. P, 1st, 2nd, and 3rd grade focused
on rolling, underhand and overhand throwing and catching skills. They practiced with a
wide variety of balls and objects. 4th and 5th graders worked on stick skills such as
cradling, scooping, throwing and catching. We will be getting into skills for maintaining
possession of the ball and strategies for offense and defense.
Music Happenings:
The 3rd and 4th graders learned their first dance of the year in music class. “Sasha” is a
dance which teaches the students about Russian culture and how to say 1, 2, 3 in
Russian. The students had a wonderful time dancing with different partners! The fifth
grade students have worked in and outside of general music class to prepare for their
Winter Concert scheduled on Tuesday, December 19, 2006 at 2:30 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.
Kindergarten Happenings:
Rose Tree Kindergarten began Computer Lab this Month. Students will visit the
computer lab once a week to explore computer programs that will enhance classroom
instruction. The first project kindergarten students worked on was a December calendar.
Second Grade:
Second graders at Rose Tree Elementary School have participated in several
videoconferences in conjunction with their new Houghton Mifflin reading program. To
enrich the “nature” theme of unit 2, students took part in distance learning experiences
called “Pumpkin Circle” and “Wolf Tales.” To extend the “focus on genre” section of the
unit, second graders also learned more about fables through a videoconference that
shared Aesop’s fables. The students’ classroom educational experiences are positively
enhanced with these technology opportunities offered by our district through Mr. Clark.
Fourth Grade Happenings:
On Thursday, November 14th, students from Miss Mrozoski’s and Mrs. Spardel’s classes
had the opportunity to participate in a videoconference with children’s’ book author, Dan
Gutman. Mr. Gutman talked about how he became a writer and where he gets his story
ideas. He reiterated the importance of perseverance when it comes to writing. There was
plenty of time for students’ questions and interactive discussion! The students (and
teachers) thoroughly enjoyed this experience!
The fourth graders have been working on their informational writing skills. Students wrote
“How To” speeches in school describing in sequential steps how to do something they
know well. Students focused on writing paragraphs with strong topic sentences and
supporting details. As the experts on their activity, they planned out props, posters,
power points, videos, and other visual aids that would help them instruct the class.
Students practiced speaking/speech giving skills. As a culminating activity, students
presented their “How To’s” to parents, grandparents, and classmates during our American
Education Week Open House. The guests were treated to many interesting speeches
8
such as: how to bake the best banana bread, how to make Flubber, how to perform a
magic trick, how to groom a dog, and how to launch a rocket.
SPRINGTON LAKE MIDDLE SCHOOL
Tonya Melchior was a presenter along with the Penncrest High School Physical
Education staff at the Southeast District PSAHPERD (Pennsylvania State Alliance for
Health, Physical Education, Recreation, and Dance) conference. The presentation topic
was on the PEP grant process and the Penncrest High School curriculum implementation.
The Seventh Grade social studies classes all made trips to the National Constitution
Center this month as an enrichment activity. Students conducted research in selected
subject areas with the help of teachers and parent chaperones. Both parents and NCC
staff members commented on the success of the activity as well as the respectable
conduct of our students.
Mrs. Going's 8th graders are busy with their ceramics unit and work has begun on the
Annual Clay figures! Based on a study of Michelangelo and the Renaissance artists and
art of the 13th-16th centuries, students will be expected to develop a human or animal in
a properly proportioned body wearing human clothing, involved in an activity. As we
sculpt, students are keeping a journal to help them think through their many ideas and
help them problem solve. 7th graders have also begun their ceramics unit which reviews
basic hand building skills and glazing techniques. They will be creating a three
dimensional fish "in motion.” Wait until you see them!! 6th graders are rapping up a unit
which combines painting and depth perception and the final piece which is a printmaking
unit. These are based on the Chinese Zodiac animals and their Chinese Character
Letters. The kids are all printing this week and are very excited about the entire process.
Our next unit will begin shortly and will focus on the history of the Aztec/ Mayan
civilizations and students will begin a relief sculpture of an Aztec Sun!!
Mrs. Motley attended the Delaware County Fall Book Review at Upper Darby High
School, where she selected books – twenty-nine fiction, non-fiction and picture books. In
exchange for reading and writing reviews of the titles selected, Springton Lake Library
keeps the $604 worth of new publications free of charge.
During our last in-service day, nationally-known speaker and author, Kathleen Baxter
presented Get Real: Non-Fiction Booktalking to Get Kids excited about Reading. Mrs.
Motley and all district librarians attended this very exciting presentation where they
gleaned lots of ideas as well as topics to promote reading among our students.
Orientation for sixth grade language arts students wrapped up with lessons on applying
keyword search strategies using AND, OR and NOT for library and Internet searching.
SLMS Fall Book Fair was held during American Education Week. In addition to being
open each day from 8-3 p.m., the Book Fair was also open during two evenings to
accommodate parents who wished to bring their families to look at books together.
9
As a trainer for PDE, Mrs. Motley spent a day in Upper Darby presenting a workshop to
their library staff entitled, Assessment Primer: The Why, The What, and The How. She
also co-presented the same workshop for other Delaware County librarians with Ilene
Grayev from Radnor High School. She is scheduled to present again for Philadelphia
Archdiocese librarians and Chester County librarians in the spring.
The summer reading committee has met several times to plan for the summer of 2007.
Friendship has been selected as the guiding theme and members have examined which
books might be used again and which need to be replaced. After book talks by Mrs.
Motley on potential titles, committee members have begun reading in a variety of genres.
Library Research Projects
Eighth grade AGP students from Ms. Stephens’s classes had to research cultural
differences and then produce a game to illustrate them.
Mrs. Motley and Mrs. Sangillo followed up an initial lesson on questioning for seventh
grade AGP students. A second lesson, intended to help students to refine and direct their
research, provided a hierarchy of questions that her students used to create a plan to
answer their essential questions.
Miss Dachiu’s seventh grade language arts class researched Greek gods using print and
technology sources and then selected to report their results through a research paper, an
oral report or a visual presentation.
Mrs. Maguire’s sixth grade science students researched viruses using the RAFT model
(Role, Audience, Format, Topic) and created either brochures, a medical report, a musical
presentation, or billboards. Students could assume the role of a publisher creating a drug
pamphlet, a medical reporter presenting a broadcast, a songwriter creating a tune or
music video, or an advertiser mounting a billboard.
In preparation for the sixth grade science reports beginning with Mrs. Maguire’s classes,
Mrs. Motley conducted lessons for all sixth graders on simple strategies they can use to
write information they’ve gathered from research in their own words.
December is concert time at SLMS. Thus far, the choirs of grades six, seven and eight
have performed, along with Sixth Grade Band and Jazz Band. Over 600 musicians have
participated. Our SLMS Orchestra will be the next organization to delight an audience
with holiday sounds on Monday, December 18.
To give back to our community, the Sixth Grade Chorus members will perform in
downtown Media on Wednesday, December 20, and at the School Board meeting on
Thursday, December 21.
After a successful concert season, the Eighth Grade Chorus will join the Penncrest Choirs
for a Master class and concert on Friday, January 12. The group “Swinging Gates” from
Hamilton University in Hamilton, New Jersey will conduct several workshops during the
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day. The groups will then meet for a 5:00 pizza party, followed by a combined concert in
the Penncrest Auditorium at 7:00 PM. Tickets are $5.00.
General music classes have also gotten involved in the holiday spirit as they played
various songs representing different celebrations in the Yamaha Keyboard Lab and on
the hand chimes. Eighth grade, in its study of the history of music, took a look at the
Baroque period and Handel’s Messiah. Seventh Grade students appreciated the music of
Tchaikovsky as they performed selections from his Nutcracker Suite.
Mrs. Sycz’ grade eight students are in the process of finishing construction of their 8th
grade clay sculpture unit. The sculptures of Michelangelo, Rodin and Brancusi have been
compared and contrasted during the beginning of the lesson. Students have then
examined the difference between two elements of art: shape and form in preparation of
learning some of the basics of sculpting the human figure. Students must use creative
thinking in not only thinking of a subject to sculpt but also dealing with construction
challenges. Basic clay methods will be reviewed and new methods shown. Eventually
students will tackle painting and color theory. A reading and writing assignment will also
be included in the unit. Grade seven students have completed reading and writing about
the purpose of art. Pre-Columbian art also has been introduced since it relates to their
clay unit. Students are now in the process of creating a vessel in the form of an animal
being inspired by pre-Columbian folk art. Students are using creative thinking skills to
construct a functional work of art. Clay skills acquired during the sixth grade year will be
strengthened in this seventh grade clay project. Students are using slab construction to
make their pottery. Grade six students are in the final phase of glazing their textured clay
pottery. After completing this clay unit, students will be more able to understand the
difference between the elements of shape and form. Students will investigate the
elements of space and value as they learn one point linear perspective. Students will
explore how artists have used space in their art work by reading about the time that
perspective was developed and about the time when it was challenged.
Mrs. Prior’s eighth graders are learning about the art and architecture from the
Romanesque and Gothic periods. We will focus on the art of illuminations and students
will create their own painted illuminations based on Celtic, Romanesque, Gothic,
Renaissance and contemporary lettering styles and decorative designs. Seventh graders
are finishing abstract pastel drawings and will create move on to create painted designs
as part of our "Color and Design" unit. Sixth Graders are using their rendering skills to
shade their pencil portraits. These drawings are a stepping stone to using the medium of
charcoal to reinforce the element of value.
Miss Bendistis's seventh grade language arts class recently finished reading The Landry
News by Andrew Clements. The novel has an interdisciplinary connection to the social
studies unit on the Constitution. The novel focused on the censorship of a class
newspaper. As a follow-up writing activity the class will be writing our own newspaper.
The students wrote resumes and applied for the job they would like on the staff. We then
held interviews for the positions. Dr. Jeuell, Mrs. Horan, Mrs. Gilroy, and Mrs. Sangillo
graciously volunteered to interview the students to provide them with a real world
experience. The students really enjoyed the experience and are anxious to complete and
share the newspaper.
11
PENNCREST HIGH SCHOOL
On November 22, Paul Dimeo, a featured actor on the popular TV program Extreme
Home Makeover, addressed PHS juniors, seniors and their teachers at a special
assembly program. Mr. Dimeo, PHS '76, visited the school in conjunction with on-going
50th anniversary celebratory events.
Mr. Dimeo's presentation emphasized the
importance of community. He encouraged students to become life long learners, to take
positive actions that show concern for others and to value all individuals regardless of
their differences or limitations.
Penncrest graduates from the class of 2006 have been invited to the afternoon annual
alumni reunion event on December 21. The alumni will gather in the cafeteria where they
will meet with current seniors. Current seniors will have an opportunity to ask an "expert"
panel of alumni questions regarding all aspects of their college experience.
The Penncrest home Hi-Q match vs. Marple Newtown (defending champs) and Haverford
will be held on Tuesday, December 19, at 9:30 a.m. in the auditorium.
The Rotary Students of the Month for November were Senior William Anderson and
Junior Raechel Pierce. They were honored at the Rotary luncheon at the Towne House
Restaurant.
The Advanced Foods and Nutrition classes are working with Media Elementary School
and are preparing cookie trays for the needy families in the district.
The Penncrest Middle States Accreditation for Growth Planning Team convened its
annual meeting to review AFG 2005-06 performance data related to student achievement
and respect indicators and to develop action plans for the current year. The committee
includes student, faculty, parent, administration, community and school board
representation. This was the first year since the inception of the plan that the established
target for PSSA performance was met. Details of the data were shared with the RTM
Board of School Directors in early December. The current plan has been extended
through Fall 2008. The planning committee recommended that consideration be given to
postponing the development of any future plans in light of the many achievements and
community building initiatives that are being implemented or are planned for development
over the course of the next several years.
The Penncrest grading committee held its second meeting to consider issues related to
current grading practices and possible changes for future implementation. Data from
other comparable districts was examined and compared to those in place at Penncrest.
The committee will continue to meet throughout the course of this year.
Elected representatives of the PHS student body reviewed the No Place for Hate pledge
at its monthly meeting. Students agreed that signing the pledge would reinforce our
school's commitment to building a culture that values diversity. Students also felt that
12
there are many initiatives in place and in development at Penncrest that support the No
Place for Hate initiative.
The National Honor Society collected $221 through their Bucks for Birds campaign in
November. The money was donated to Philabundance in Philadelphia for the purchase
of holiday turkeys. Several students went to the Philabundance headquarters to present
the donation and also received a tour of the facility and learned more about this large food
bank.
Mr. Peter Bretz expressed his appreciation to student Wes Potter and twelve other
students who assisted with Operation Christmas Child. The students helped to package
and prepare over 3,000 shoe boxes for shipment around the world. The activity was
sponsored by the Optimist Club of Rose Tree Media. Wes has worked with the program
for four years.
Over fifty student council members helped to celebrate Penncrest's 50th Anniversary by
marching in the Annual Veteran's Day Parade on Saturday, November 11. Students
carried and unfurled the flag in front of the Delaware County Court House at the parade's
finale.
The Junior Class will be sponsoring the Penncrest 2006 Holiday Dance on Friday,
December 8 in the cafeteria.
Student Council is planning the Annual Canned Foods Drive for the holidays. Cans will
be collected by class officers during home room and the admission price to the December
dance will be reduced when students bring three or more cans.
Social Studies department members reviewed the Alumni survey and proposed additional
questions for the next edition of the survey. Suggestions included evaluating the merits of
AP testing on the college careers and future employment opportunities for Penncrest
graduates.
The student athletes at Penncrest High School made November a month to remember.
Tim Brown, Amy Grecco, and Casey Desiderio were selected to the first team All-Central
league. Patrick O’Donnell was our most distinguished athlete this fall. He was the
recipient of the Jumbo Johnson Memorial Award selected by the Media Old Timers
Association as well as the Phil Merion award as the most courageous athlete selected by
the Delaware County Football Coaches Association. Patrick was also a member of the
All Delco and All Central first team.
On November 20, the senior class sponsored a junior-senior powder puff football game.
All proceeds benefited the Breast Cancer Research Fund. The event generated over
$1,700. A special thank you is in order for the Rose Tree Media School District
maintenance department for their efforts in preparing the field and the Penncrest High
School students that participated in the game. We would also like to congratulate Christie
Hamilton, a senior, who spent many hours organizing this event.
The World Language Honor Club has selected its officers for the 2006-2007 school year.
Club members currently provide free tutoring after school on Tuesdays.
13
The World Language department held its annual concert on November 15 at SLMS. Latin
Nation played salsa music for RTM students, families and community members.
Proceeds from the concert benefited the Phyllis Kavanaugh Student Exchange
Scholarship.
The Phyllis Kavanaugh scholarship committee will meet on December 5 to interview the
12 candidates and select winners. The winners will be announced shortly.
14
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
Chief Operations Officer
Management Services Department
Denise C. Kerr, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools
To:
Members of the Board of School Directors
Denise C. Kerr, Ed.D. Superintendent
From:
Sharon A. Learn, Chief Operations Officer
Date:
December 13, 2006
Subject:
Minutes - December 12, 2006 – 8:00 PM Finance Committee Meeting,
Chairperson: Bill Campbell
____________________________________________________________________________
In attendance:
Bill Campbell
Nancy Frondutti
Also in attendance:
Denise Kerr
Bill Montgomery
Stacey Benson
Bill O’Donnell
Sharon Learn
Meg Barney
____________________________________________________________________________
1. Act 1
Tax Study Commission held their final meeting on December 11, 2006. In
accordance with Special Session of 2006, Act 1, the TSC concluded their work reviewed historical tax collection records, studied implications of an earned income
and personal income tax, listened to residents during a public hearing, and finally
made a decision prior to the deadline of December 13, 2006. The TSC will file a
final report with the Board of School Directors at the December 21, 2006 Legislative
Meeting. The final report will include a recommendation for a personal income tax in
the amount of .8%. At the same time, the TSC will encourage voters to “vote no” on
May 7, 2006.
2. 2007 – 2008 General Fund Budget
Act 1 2007 – 2008 General Fund proposed budget was reviewed with a power point
presentation created and presented by Chairman Bill Campbell.
A comparison of business office calculations to those prepared by Mr. Campbell are
as follows:
1
Rose Tree Media School
District
308 North Olive Street
Media, Pennsylvania 190632493
Telephone 610.627.6000
Fax 610.891.0959
www.rtmsd.org
Sharon A. Learn
Board Secretary
Chief Operations Officer
Management Services
Department
Denise C. Kerr, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools
To:
Members of the Board of School Directors
Denise C. Kerr, Ed.D. Superintendent
From:
Sharon A. Learn, Chief Operations Officer
Date:
December 13, 2006
Subject:
Minutes – December 12, 2006 Operations Committee Meeting,
Chairperson: Bill Montgomery
In attendance:
Bill Montgomery
Bill Campbell
Bill O’Donnell
Nancy Frondutti
Stacey Benson
Also in attendance:
Denise Kerr
Sharon Learn
Harry Protzmann
Meg Barney
__________________________________________________________________
1. Five Year Capital Improvements and Educational Plan
Harry Protzmann, Project Manager of the Five Year Capital Improvements
and Educational Plan provided the following update:
Hayes Large presented the draft plan to principals and cabinet members on
November 30, 2006. The report was well received. They recommended
public meetings be offered in the morning, maybe breakfast, for senior
citizens and evenings for parents and other community members. The first
public meeting will be a data gathering session; second meeting will review a
summary of the information gathered at the first meeting; and the third meting
will be a presentation of the capital and educational plan. The final meeting
will be plan adoption at a Legislation Meeting.
1
The presentations will include a time line of building improvements completed at
each facility in the past. An on-line and in-person survey will be conducted to
receive additional community participation.
The final plan will include the major PlanCon capital projects, small capital
projects, and small maintenance, improvement projects. The plan will also
include cost estimates based on 2007 dollar values.
The Chairmen of Finance and Operations committees have requested the Board
put Springton Lake Middle School on a “fast tract”.
Follow up: Harry will prepare an RFP for architectural services. The January
Operations Committee Agenda will include the pool. A decision must be made
whether to repair, replace or remove the swimming pool. Additional information
requests – number of schools in the expanded Central League area with
swimming pools.
2. Transportation Issue
The board members and superintendent received a letter from
Representative Tom Killion stating that it would be fair to the parents of
students attending Bishop Shanahan High School to provide transportation to
and from Downingtown. Acting supervisor of transportation, Bonnie Kinsler,
mapped the distance to Bishop Shanahan from every district boundary:
Transporting to this school would require the purchase of another bus and the
hiring of another driver. Bonnie called West Chester Area School District to see
if they would be willing to participate in a shuttle service. Unfortunately, the
schedules cannot be synchronized closely enough to allow a transfer of students.
It also must be noted that the Transportation Department has received requests
for transportation to several other schools located ten miles or more beyond
RTMSD’s furthest boundary.
Follow up: A response to Mr. Killion will be prepared explaining regret that his
request must be denied.
2
Consent Agenda – the following items have been reviewed by the chairmen of
finance and operations committees along with the district engineer and chief
operating officer. A consent agenda requires little or no discussion. Items on the
consent agenda may appear on the December 21, 2006 Legislative Agenda.
1. Springton Lake Middle School – Sewer Connection
Request for Proposals - sanitary sewer connection to provide engineer
services to design and bid a connection a public sewer system – resulted with
three responses. Award is recommended to G. D. Houtman & Son, Inc. in
an amount not to exceed $39,250. Harry Protzmann will attend the Upper
Providence Sewer Authority Meeting, December 13, 2006.
2. Springton Lake Middle School - Chiller Water System Replacement Phase II
Chairmen of operations and finance committees along with the administration
agree to scale down the additional scope for Phase II to include only the
variable frequency drives.
3. Springton Lake Middle School - Elevator Replacement
The bids or elevator replacement were opened on December 5, 2006 at 2:00
PM in the Education Center board room. Award is recommended to Burkey
Construction Co. the vendor listed on the basis of having submitted the lowest
bid which meets the requirements of the bid specification at a total cost not to
exceed $236,407. Included in the total is $42,866 to remove and replace the
existing cylinder casing if needed and a credit of ($19,000) to reuse the
existing rails, platform & sling if possible. See Attachment D - Bid Tabulation.
4. Transportation Department – New Construction - Change Orders
S. B. Conrad
S. B. Conrad
GC-005
GC-006
$ 4,360.60
$43,762.95
5. Transportation Department – New Construction – Bus Yard Lights
Two proposals were received to install new fixtures and brackets on the
floodlights along Barren Road. It is recommended that Charles A. Higgins &
Sons, Inc. proceed at a cost of $3,734.
6. Media Elementary School – Wall Restoration
The original bid (see bid tabulation attached) was opened on June 12, 2006
and awarded at the June 2006 Legislative Meeting to Premier Building
Restoration, Inc. in the amount of $61,895. There have been two board
approved change orders in the amounts of $38,000 and $45,010. At this time
the administration is requesting an additional change order in the amount of
$29,630 for additional selected sections of the building. See Attachment E
3
7. Access Control Systems
Access control systems will be installed at Springton Lake Middle School,
Glenwood, Indian Lane and Media Elementary Schools. Cost of the project is
$9,906 to Anixer Philadelphia for equipment; $10,878 to PDM Service Co.,
Inc. for labor to install the equipment.
The next operations committee meeting will be on January 9, 2007, 9:00 PM
4
Sharon’s Estimate
Bill’s Estimate
Opening Fund Balance
$
3,779,188
$
3,779,188
Revenues
$
69,266,340
$
69,479,216
Fund Balance to be
used
Expenditures
$
2,800,000
$
1,800,000
$
72,248,262
$
73,528,729
Shortfall/Overage
$
(181,922)
$
2,249,513
Ending Fund Balance
$
1,649,809
$
1,529,675
Chairman Campbell asked the following questions:
„
„
„
„
„
Where do we go from here ….
Do we want to go to Referendum?
What 07/08 end of year Fund Balance do we want?
When to you want to see the prioritized list of services, programs and/or costs to be
cut? How do you want this information presented?
What “other” information do you want or need?
How do we tell the community about this situation?
Act 1 allows districts to apply for exceptions to the increase in mileage rate in
addition to the index. RTMSD will not need to apply for the exceptions required to
be heard in the Court of Common Pleas; however, RTMSD will apply for all
exceptions available such as: Special education expenditure increases between
fiscal years 2004 – 2005 and 2005 – 2006; increased cost of benefits associated
with labor contracts settled prior to January 1, 2006; Delaware County Community
College increase in cost; increased cost related to the PSERS rate; and debt service
increase associated with the new borrowing. The application to PDE for exceptions
will be completed in January 2007 with a response due in March 2007.
The internal budgeting process is very different this year due to the constraints of
Act 1. Rather than ask teachers, supervisors, directors and principals for their
budget requests, the administration will give the “bottom line” to each responsibility
center. Each responsibility center must prepare a list of
programs/activities/equipment that cannot be afforded within the “bottom line”.
The Pennsylvania Department of Education provides a chart of accounts for use in
school district accounting. A summary of the chart was offered to committee
members.
Copies of Annual Financial Report are available on the web, please let Sharon know
if you would like a hard copy.
5.
Executive Session – real estate
The next Finance committee Meeting will be on January 9, 2007, 7:00 PM
2
EXCELLENCE
TODAY
FOR TOMORROW
Rose Tree Media School District
308 North Olive Street
Media, Pennsylvania 19063-2493
Telephone: 610.627.6000
Fax: 610-891-0959
www.rtmsd.org
Denise C. Kerr, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools
To:
Members of the Board of School Directors
Denise C. Kerr, Ed.D., Superintendent
From:
Anne D. Callahan, Director of Human Resources
Date:
December 14, 2006
Subject:
Minutes of the Personnel Committee Meeting
Anne D. Callahan
Director of Human Resources
Board Members in attendance: W. O’Donnell, W. Campbell, S. Benson, Chair, N.
Fronduti
Also in attendance: A. Callahan, D. Kerr
I.
Items for Legislative Meeting – Anne Callahan
These items were included on the Board website. All members of the
committee are asked to review the items and contact Anne Callahan with any
questions.
Action: All items will be placed on the agenda of the Legislative Meeting of
December 21, 2006, for a vote of the full board.
II.
Policy Revision – Policy #911, News Media Relations
Copies of the revised policy were placed on the Board
Website in November. Copies were handed to the members
in attendance for review. The changes were minor changes
in wording necessitated by the elimination of the Community
Relations Coordinator position at the end of October.
Action: Policy #911 will be placed on the agenda of the
Legislative Meeting of December 21, 2006, for a first
reading.
III.
2007-2008 Calendar
The first draft of the 2007-2008 School District Calendar was
presented to the committee for review and comment.
Several members in attendance expressed concern about
the number of half days in the proposed calendar.
Action: Anne Callahan will ask Dr. Angela Gilbert, Director
of Teaching and Learning – Elementary, and Dr. Steve
Taylor, Director of Teaching and Learning – Secondary, to
prepare a rationale for the half days to be submitted to the
Board of School Directors.
IV.
Executive Session
An Executive Session was held to discuss matters of
personnel.
The next meeting of the Personnel Committee will be held at 8:00 PM on Tuesday,
January 9, 2007, in the Education Center Board Room.
Rose Tree Media School District
308 North Olive Street
Media, Pennsylvania 19063-2493
Telephone 610.627.6000
Fax 610.565-5317
www.rtmsd.org
Denise C. Kerr, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools
Valerie Burnett, Ed.D.
Director of Pupil Services
To:
Members of the Board of School Directors
Denise C. Kerr, Ed.D. Superintendent
From:
Valerie Burnett
Date:
December 7, 2006
Subject:
December 5, 2006 Pupil Services Minutes
Chairperson: Mrs. Veronica Barbato
Minutes
Board members in attendance: Veronica Barbato, Bill Campbell, Bill Montgomery,
Nancy Fronduti, Nancy Mackrides, Linda Fox, Jeff Pettit
Others in Attendance: Denise Kerr, Sharon Learn, Valerie Burnett, Pat Barta,
Sandy Shacklady-White, Steve Taylor, Ken Batchelor, Patti Linden, Ralph
Harrison, Angela Gilbert, Eleanor DiMarino-Linnen, Meg Barney, Chris Chalker(Simon Youth Foundation)
Aide Request
A student returned from an Approved Private School placement this year to attend
Penncrest. The student has a significant emotional disturbance. The student requires
close supervision and adult support throughout the day to implement his behavior
management plan.
Action: The request for creation of the position will be on the December
Personnel agenda.
Contract
A student with significant mental illness attends the Vanguard School. The student has
had multiple mental health hospitalizations and requires full time adult supervision for
safety.
Action: The contract will be on the December Legislative Agenda for approval.
Trip
Close Up Washington DC
Six students and one staff member will travel to Washington DC from January 28, 2007
through February 1, 2007 for a close up experience with the federal legislative process.
The group will travel by private carrier. The PHS budget includes the cost of the trip:
Registration, lodging, meals and private transportation: $3, 000.00. Four substitute
days $300.00
Action: The contract will be on the December Legislative Agenda for approval.
New Program Request
Granite Run Mall Alternative School Presentation
Information was provided to the Board on the preliminary work completed to develop an
alternative school (Educational Resource Center) at the Granite Run Mall. With financial
support and collaboration with the Simon Youth Foundation, the district is seeking
Board support to move forward with the project. Ralph Harrison presented the start up
budget, annual operating budget, sources of offsetting revenue, fundraising, and
student need for the program, as well as the cost saving for the district. Dr. Taylor and
Ken Batchelor provided an overview of the curriculum and educational program. Patti
Linden discussed the cost of technology and fiber connection. Dr. Burnett provided the
data collection plan for evaluating the success of the program as well as the number of
potential current students for the program. The specific language of the contract is being
finalized with the district’s solicitor, Tom Kelly. A signed letter of agreement from the
Simon Youth Foundation will be provided if the Board provides approval for the
program. There was consensus from the Board to move the request to a resolution for
the December 21, 2006 Legislative Agenda.
Action: A request for program approval will be on the December Legislative
Agenda for approval.
The next meeting of the Pupil Service Committee will be January 2, 2007 at 7:00 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:
December 6, 2006
RE:
December 5, 2006, Teaching & Learning Committee Meeting Minutes
Chairperson: Mr. Jeff Pettit
Board Members in Attendance: Veronica Barbato, Bill Campbell, Linda Fox, Nancy
Fronduti, Nancy Mackrides, Bill Montgomery, Jeff Pettit
Also in Attendance: Ken Batchelor, Meg Barney, Susan Evans, Angela Gilbert, Denise
Kerr, Patti Linden, Tonya Melchior, Steve Taylor
Penncrest Proposed Course Changes for 2007-2008
Dr. Evans presented a summary of proposed course changes for the 2007-2008 school
year. Changes are being made to clarify actual course content and sequencing, to
expand course eligibility, and to expand course offerings. Three courses are being
added to the Advanced Placements menu: AP Government and Politics, AP Economics,
and AP Environmental Science. Program proposal forms for these new courses were
included for the Board’s information. Costs associated with the new courses include AP
teacher training and new materials. The course selection season for students will begin
in February and extends into early March.
Annual Update on AFG at Penncrest High School.
Dr. Evans updated the Board on progress of the Accreditation for Growth (AFG) plan at
Penncrest. This plan focuses on two student performance goals: one related to issues
of respect and the other to improving the achievement and motivation of students taking
level 2 and 3 classes. Dr. Evans’ presentation reviewed progress vis-à-vis each
performance indicator for the two goals, with data summarizing students’ performance
over the entire 2005-2006 school year and comparing performances from the past six
years. Targets have been reached or exceeded for several indicators and not yet
reached for others. Students’ personal and academic integrity remain areas of concern.
Dr. Evans reported that the Penncrest administration has requested and been granted a
one-year extension for the development of a new plan, which is now due in Fall 2008.
Dr. Evans, Mr. Batchelor, and Dr. Taylor also discussed with the Board the possibility of
moving toward a model of validation which relies on NCLB and locally-developed
performance indicators rather than on the AFG process. The Board will revisit this issue
when it considers the upcoming “Excellence for All” initiative.
Request to Host AAHPERD/AAPAR National Conference at Springton Lake Middle
School
The national physical education and health organizations, AAHPERD and AAPAR, have
asked if Springton Lake would host a national workshop for two or three dozen
participants on the Adventure curriculum in April 2007. This request comes as a direct
result of Springton’s implementation of the PEP Grant from USDE. The organizations
have provided the required certificates of liability insurance, and there are no costs for
RTM to host this event. The Board gave permission for the contract between these
organizations and RTM to appear on the December legislative agenda.
Policy #118 (Independent Study) – Proposed Revision
Following up last month’s approval of certain online courses for Independent Study, Mr.
Pettit proposed new wording to Policy #118, which governs Independent Study. The
revision will appear on the December legislative agenda for First Reading.
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
Patti Linden
Director of Technology
and Information Science
To:
Members of the Board of School Directors
Denise C. Kerr, Ed.D., Superintendent
From:
Patti Linden
Date:
December 6, 2006
Subject:
December 5, 2006, Technology Committee Meeting Minutes
Chairperson: Mrs. Linda Fox
Board Members in attendance: Jeff Pettit, Veronica Barbato, Nancy Mackrides, Bill
Campbell
Also in attendance: Denise Kerr, Patti Linden, Ron Harris, Kim McCann-Roller,
Anthony Lombardo, Meg Barney
Budgetary Projections for Equipment Purchases
Patti Linden and Ron Harris presented the 2007-2008 projections for district technology
equipment purchases and explained the rationale for Fund 10 and Fund 22 purchases.
Beginning last year, we have tried to budget any new equipment out of the Fund 22
Capital money and use the Fund 10 Operating money to replace existing equipment as
needed. Infrastructure costs also come out of Fund 22, while other operating expenses
are paid through Fund 10. Since money is being allocated to replace large TV
classroom monitors as they begin to break down, discussion took place about the need
to have them. At this point in time, since the secondary schools use them to run
morning news shows and other broadcasting events, we do have a need to replace
them as they expire. Elementary schools also use the TV monitors to broadcast VHS
tapes. For Fund 22 expenditures, the BSD agreed to fund the dollar amount of the
expenditures in the event that the quantity may differ. Patti Linden will inform the BSD of
changes to the projected expenditures through the weekly updates.
Next meeting: Tuesday, January 2, at 9:00 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.”
November 30, 2006
December 5, 2006
December 12, 2006
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 January 25, 2006, at Springton
Lake Middle School. The Legislative meetings are recorded on tape.
VI.
Scheduled Presentations
D.
Tax Study Presentation and Recommendation
Resolve, that the Rose Tree Media School District Local Tax
Study Commission, having undertaken its duties and
responsibilities as set forth in Act 1 of 2006 (Taxpayer Relief
Act) and having made its recommendation to the Rose Tree
Media School District Board of School Directors to consider
approving a resolution to implement a personal income tax at
the rate of eight tenths (.8) or one (1%) percent as permitted
within the terms and conditions of Act 1, is hereby discharged
effective December 13, 2006, with sincere appreciation on the
part of the School District and School Board.
Background
Act 1 is a recently enacted Pennsylvania law that seeks to
reduce property taxes through a partial tax shift of property
taxes to an earned income tax or personal income tax. An
earned income tax, levied by the locality, includes salaries,
wages, fees, tips, commissions, etc. A personal income tax,
levied by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, taxes eight
classes of income, including dividends, interest, net profits, and
gambling/lottery winnings. Under the law, all 501 public school
districts in Pennsylvania were required to appoint a Tax Study
Commission to study existing tax structures and make a
recommendation to the Board of School Directors on or before
December 13, 2006, at a public board meeting.
VIII.
Old Business
A.
Policy Review
1. Policy #815 – Acceptable Use of RTM Network
Resources – Second Read and Approval
Resolve, the Board approve the revised Policy #815
Acceptable Use of RTM Network Resources.
See
Attachment A
Background
This policy was discussed at the November Technology
Committee Meeting.
IX.
New Business
A.
Personnel
1.
Terminations
a.
Professional
1.
b.
2.
Erika Powell, Elementary Teacher, Media
Elementary School, resignation effective January
2, 2007.
Non-Instructional
1.
Gina Spinelli, Secretary II, resignation effective
December 8, 2006.
2.
Catherine Catino, Support Staff II, Penncrest High
School, resignation effective January 17, 2006.
3.
Kenneth Woodward, Bus Driver, termination effective
December 1, 2006.
4.
Jerome Parsons, Custodian, Glenwood Elementary,
termination for abandonment of position effective
November 15, 2006.
5.
Heath Stewart, Facilities Foreman, resignation,
effective December 14, 2006.
Nominations
a.
Professional
1.
Jennifer McLeod, Long Term Substitute Language
Arts Teacher, effective December 18, 2006, at the
annual salary of $45,294, Master’s/Step 1,
prorated. Ms. McLeod received her Bachelor’s and
Master’s Degrees from Indiana University. She is
assigned to Springton Lake Middle School
replacing Carin Newsome who is on leave. NOTE:
Ms. McLeod is being hired pending completion of
her pre-employment paperwork.
IX.
New Business
A.
Personnel
2.
Nominations (continued)
2.
b.
Heather Jordan, Long Term Substitute Learning
Support Teacher, effective December 14, 2006, at
the rate of $41,794, Bachelor’s/Step 1 prorated.
Ms. Jordan received her Bachelor’s Degree from
Immaculata University. She is assigned to Rose
Tree Elementary replacing Kate Geary who is on
leave. NOTE: Ms. Jordan is being hired pending
completion of her pre-employment paperwork.
Non-Instructional
1.
Kathleen Simpson, Regular Part-Time Cafeteria
Worker, effective November 28, 2006, at the rate of
$8.45 per hour. NOTE: Ms. Simpson is being hired
pending
completion
of
her
pre-employment
paperwork.
2.
Mildred Jacobs, Substitute Custodian, effective
December 18, 2006, at the rate of $12.00 per hour.
Ms. Jacobs is assigned to Maintenance and
Operations. NOTE: Ms. Jacobs is being hired pending
completion of her pre-employment paperwork.
3.
Jason Keeley, Substitute Bus Driver, effective
December 1, 2006, at the rate of $18.55 per hour. Mr.
Keeley is assigned to the Transportation Department.
NOTE: Mr. Keeley is being hired pending completion
of his pre-employment paperwork.
4.
Amanda Sargent, Support Staff II, Personal
Instructional Assistant, effective December 22,
2006 at the rate of $12.81 per hour. Ms. Sargent is
assigned to Rose Tree Elementary replacing Gina
Kateusz who resigned. NOTE: Ms. Sargent is
being hired pending completion of her preemployment paperwork.
5.
Carol Boulet, Support Staff I, effective December
18, 2006, at the rate of $10.82 per hour. Ms. Boulet
is assigned to Rose Tree Elementary replacing
Charlotte Schenkel who resigned. NOTE: Ms.
Boulet is being hired pending completion of her
pre-employment paperwork.
IX.
New Business
A.
Personnel
b.
Non-Instructional (continued)
6.
3.
Julanne Labrum, Theme Reader, effective January
2, 2007, at the rate of $255.00 per month. NOTE:
Ms. Labrum is being hired pending completion of
her pre-employment paperwork.
General
a.
b.
Classification Change
1.
Kimberly Smith, Support Staff II, Personal
Instructional Assistant, effective January 2, 2007, at
the rate of $12.81 per hour. Ms. Smith is currently
working in Food Service. She will be assigned to
Media Elementary.
2.
Kevin Colman, from Substitute Custodian to Full Time
Custodian, effective December 4, 2006 at the rate of
$12.69 per hour. Mr. Coleman is assigned to
Penncrest High School replacing James Scott who
resigned.
Unpaid Leave of Absence
1.
c.
Jessica Anderson has requested an extension of her
Unpaid Leave of Absence through June 30, 2007.
Supplemental Contracts
1.
Diane Heiland, (.5) Energizer Club Sponsor, Rose
Tree Elementary, at the annual salary of $387.00.
2.
Kathryn Johnson, (.5) Energizer Club Sponsor, Rose
Tree Elementary, at the annual salary of $387.00.
3.
Eva Thomas, Library Club Sponsor, Rose Tree
Elementary, at the annual salary of $193.50.
4.
Robert Brown, Assistant Boys Indoor Track
Coach for 2006-2007 at the annual salary of
$3,354.00. Mr. Brown is assigned to Penncrest
High School.
IX.
New Business
A.
Personnel
3.
General (continued)
d.
Salary Change
1.
e.
Gail Boettcher, Jr., Fall Cheerleading salary from
$2,580 to $2,720. Ms. Boettcher’s supplemental
salary was incorrectly calculated.
Create New Position
1.
Personal Instructional Assistant – Support Staff II
Recommend the Board approve the creation of an
additional Support Staff II – Personal Instructional
Assistant position to serve the needs of a student who
is attending Penncrest High School.
f.
Other
1.
Berner, Carl
Cartwright, Dolores
Casey, Lisa
Clements, Jennifer
Duncan, Christine
Eckerd, Joyce
Ettien, Elisa
Gildea, Patricia
Grant, Jeanette
Hoppus, Suzanne
Iannucci, Catherine
King, Deborah
Krynski, Elaine
Larkin, Rita
Lomas, Christina
$1,026
$1,443
$1,176
$1,131
$403
$1,565
$1,918
$2,537
$1,329
$1,179
$1,081
$1,084
$1,178
$553
$1,141
Recommend Board approve the following net share
amounts to be distributed among food service
workers for the 2005-2006 school year:
Lorenz, Louise
Netwall Laura
Pedrick, Addrea
Phipps, Cynthia
Powers, Stephanie
Schoenberger, Sandra
Somers, Nancy
Steward, Diane
Tyson, Debra
VanLeer, Marquerite
Wible, KMiriam
Wilkins, Margaret
Yachetti, Lois
Zeleznick, Bethany
$2,155
$1,752
$1,209
$1,153
$1,662
$1,180
$929
$1,216
$1,122
$858
$676
$1,062
$1,081
$1,200
IX.
New Business
B.
Overnight Trips
1.
Close Up – Washington DC
Resolve, that the Board approve the Close Up overnight trip to
Washington DC.
Background
Six students and one staff member will travel to Washington DC
from January 28, 2007 through February 1, 2007, for a close up
experience with the federal legislative process. The group will travel
by private carrier. The PHS budget includes the cost of the trip:
Registration, lodging, meals and private transportation: $3,000.
Four substitute days cost $300. This item was discussed at the
December 2006 Pupil Services Committee Meeting.
C.
Policy Revisions
1.
Policy #118 Independent Study – First Read
Resolve, that the Board review the revised Policy #118
Independent Study.
Background
This policy was reviewed at the December Committee Meeting.
See Attachment B.
2.
Policy #911 News Media Relations – First Read
Resolve, that the Board review the revised Policy #911 News
Media Relations.
Background
This policy was reviewed at the December Community Meeting.
See Attachment C.
IX.
New Business
D.
New Program
1.
Educational Resource Center
Resolve, that the Board approve the new Granite Run Mall
Alternative School, Educational Resource Center.
Background
Information was provided to the Board on the preliminary work
completed to develop the alternative school, Educational Resource
Center. Financial support and collaboration with the Simon Youth
Foundation has been a key factor in bringing this new program
forward. Budget, annual operating budget, sources of offsetting
revenue, fundraising, student need for the program, curriculum and
educational program, and technology costs were discussed at the
December Pupil Services Committee Meeting.
E.
1.
Insurance Agreement
National Insurance Services of Wisconsin, Inc.
Resolve that the Board of School Directors approve the agreement
between Rose Tree Media School District and National Insurance
Services of Wisconsin, Inc. to provide disability insurance to the
employees of Rose Tree Media School District.
Background
The district has been working with representatives of the Rose Tree
Media Education Association to develop a new disability plan that
will meet the needs of the Association while saving the district
money. The agreement being placed before the Board was
discussed in an executive session of the Personnel Committee on
Tuesday, December 12, 2006. By moving the plan to National
Insurance Services of Wisconsin, Inc. we are able to provide
changes requested by the Association while saving the district
approximately $30,000 annually. The agreement provides a rate
guarantee through June 30, 2009.
APPENDIX X
X.
Finance
A.
Purchasing
1.
Bid Awards
Recommend the following bids be awarded in the categories
listed, such recommendation being the lowest bid received
from a responsible bidder, kind, quality and materials having
been considered.
a.
Springton Lake Middle School – Sewer Connection
G. D. Houtman & Son, Inc.
$34,250
Background
Three requests for proposals were received for
sanitary sewer connection to provide engineering
services to design and bid a connection to a public
sewer system.
b.
Springton Lake Middle School - Elevator Replacement
Burkey Construction Co.
$236,407
Background
Bids for elevator replacement were opened on
December 5, 2006 at 2:00 PM in the Education
Center board room. Included in the total is
$42,866 to remove and replace the existing cylinder
casing if needed and a credit of $19,000 to reuse
the existing rails, platform & sling if possible
c.
Transportation Department – New Construction – Bus
Yard Lights
Charles A. Higgins & Sons
$3,734
Background
Two proposals were received to install new fixtures
and brackets on the floodlights along Barren Road.
1
12/21/06
APPENDIX X
X.
Finance
A.
Purchasing
d.
Access Control Systems
Anixer Philadelphia - Equipment
PDM Service Co. – Installation
$10,787
$ 9,906
Background
Access control systems will be installed at Glenwood, Indian
Lane, Media elementary schools and Springton lake Middle
School.
B.
General
1.
Change Orders
Change orders are acted upon in accordance with
Resolution 1997-98 - 124, as approved by the School Board
of Directors on April 23, 1998.
Resolve, that the Board approve the following change
orders:
a.
Media Elementary School – Wall Restoration
#3 Premier Building Restoration - $29,630.00
Background
The original bid (see bid tabulation attached) was
opened on June 12, 2006 and awarded at the June
2006 Legislative Meeting to Premier Building
Restoration, Inc. in the amount of $61,895.
There have been two board approved change orders
in the amounts of $38,000 and $45,010.
2
12/21/06
APPENDIX X
X.
Finance
B.
General
B.
General
1.
Change Orders (cont’d)
b.
Transportation Department – New Construction
GC-005
S. B. Conrad
$ 4,360.60
Background
Additional cost to remove compacted stone at
temporary driveway expansion
C-006
S. B. Conrad
$43,762.95
Background
Additional costs associated with delay in
obtaining permits
2.
Vanguard School Contract
Resolve, that the Board approve a contract with
Vanguard School for the 2006-2007 school year for
$19,840.
Background
A student with significant mental illness attends the
Vanguard School. The student has had multiple
mental health hospitalizations and requires full time
adult supervision for safety. The estimated cost is
$19,840. This item was discussed at the December
2006 Pupil Services Committee Meeting.
3
12/21/06
APPENDIX X
X.
Finance
B.
General
1.
General
3.
American Association for Physical Activity and
Recreation (AAPAR)
Resolve, that the Board approve a contract with the
American Association for Physical Activity and
Recreation (AAPAR) to conduct a workshop
entitled “Teaching Adventure Skills in the Gym” at
Springton Lake Middle School on April 27, 2007. This
workshop is designed for 25 to 36 participants from
around the country. The association agrees to
provide at least $1 million in liability coverage for
the workshop. There are no costs to the district to
host this workshop.
Background
The state-of-the-art health and physical education
curriculum and equipment provided to RTM by the
PEP grant make Springton Lake a natural choice to
host a national workshop. Tonya Melchior has also
promoted RTM’s program by speaking at national and
regional conferences for this organization. By hosting
the workshop, the district will be allowed two free
participants and will receive free equipment.
4
12/21/06
Attachment A
No. 815
ROSE TREE MEDIA
SCHOOL DISTRICT
SECTION:
OPERATIONS
TITLE:
ACCEPTABLE USE POLICY OF
RTM NETWORK RESOURCES
or RTM NETWORK POLICY
ADOPTED:
February 28, 2002
This policy applies to students, staff, and others using district technology
815. ACCEPTABLE USE POLICY OF INTERNET FOR STUDENTS AND
STAFF or
815. ACCEPTABLE USE POLICY OF INTERNET RTM NETWORK
RESOURCES
1. Purpose
The Board of School Directors supports the use of the Internet and other computer
networks in the district's instructional program in order to facilitate learning and
teaching through interpersonal communications, access to information, research and
collaboration.
The use of network facilities and the Internet shall be consistent with the curriculum
adopted by the school district as well as the varied instructional needs, learning
styles, abilities, and developmental levels of students.
2. Authority
The electronic information available to students and staff from various sources does
not imply endorsement of the content by the school district, nor does the district
guarantee the accuracy of information received on the Internet. The district shall not
be responsible for any information that may be lost, damaged or unavailable when
using the network or for any information that is retrieved via the Internet.
The school district shall not be responsible for any unauthorized charges or fees
resulting from access to the Internet.
The district reserves the right to monitor and log network use and to monitor
fileserver space utilization by district users, while respecting the privacy rights of
both district users and outside users; however, all data stored or transmitted on
school computers RTM Network can and may be reviewed, if necessary. and
communication over the network should not be considered private.
The RTM Board establishes that use of the Internet and the network facilities is a
privilege, not a right; inappropriate, unauthorized and illegal use will result in the
cancellation of those privileges.and Appropriate disciplinary action may be taken in
accordance with established discipline policies and procedures.
Page 1 of 6
815. ACCEPTABLE USE OF INTERNET - Pg. 2
3. Delegation of
Responsibility
The district shall make every effort to ensure that this educational resource is used
responsibly by students and staff. The district reserves the right to utilize electronic
devices and other media to determine that users are in compliance with this policy.
Administrators, teachers and staff have a professional responsibility to work together
to help students develop the intellectual information literacy skills necessary to
discriminate among information sources, to identify information appropriate to their
age and developmental levels, and to evaluate and use the information to meet their
educational goals. Administrators, teachers, librarians and other staff will collaborate
to ensure that students develop the information literacy skills necessary to identify
when they need information, and to locate, evaluate and effectively use the
information to answer questions, solve problems and make decisions.
Students and staff have the responsibility to respect and protect the rights of every
other user in the district an don the Internet.learn the rules and guidelines for the use
of computers, computer facilities, computer networks, and computer resources and
to abide by them.
The building and/or department administrator or the district Superintendent, with the
Technology Department, shall have the authority to determine what constitutes
inappropriate use.and his/her decision is final.
This policy will be disseminated to all students and staff via the website, the student
handbook, and the staff handbook..
Students will receive Internet safety instruction; including all rules and guidelines
for the use of computers, computer facilities, computer networks, and computer
resources.
Employees will be responsible for safeguarding passwords and held accountable for
the unauthorized or negligent disclosure of this information.
Subscriptions to Listservs must be pre-approved by the building principal.
4. Definitions
(CIPA) Key terms are as defined in the Children’s Internet Protection Act.
Technology: Electronic devices of communication of any kind; including, but not
limited to: desktop computers, laptops, PDA’s, cell phones, MP3 players, email,
instant messaging, blogs.
RTM Network: Any wired or wireless access to resources provided by and through
RTM.
Personally Identifiable Information: May include, but is not limited to, Social
Security Number, address, phone number and/or password.
Page 2 of 6
815. ACCEPTABLE USE OF INTERNET - Pg. 3
(CIPA) Filters: The term “technology protection measure” means a specific
technology that blocks or filters Internet access to visual depictions that are: 1.
Obscene, as that term is defined in section 1460 of title 18, United States Code; 2.
Child Pornography, as that term is defined in section 2256 of title 18, United States
Code; or 3. Harmful to minors.
Harmful to minors and inappropriate material: both mean any text, audio file,
picture, image, graphic image file, or other visual depiction that:
1.
Taken as a whole and with respect to minors, appeals to a prurient interest in
nudity, sex, or excretion.
2.
Taken as a whole, lacks serious literary, artistic, political, or scientific value as
to minors.
Hacking refers to the act of gaining unauthorized entry or attempting to gain
unauthorized entry into a computer system for the purpose of:
5. Guidelines
1.
Determining the data structure and security restrictions of the computer
system.
2.
Making unauthorized changes in the data structure and security restrictions of
the computer system.
3.
To make unauthorized use of services provided by the computer system to
share information regarding all of the above with other unauthorized users.
Network accounts will be used only by the authorized owner of the account for its
authorized purpose. All communications and information accessible via the network
should be assumed to be personal property of the account owner and shall not be
disclosed to network users. Network users shall respect the privacy rights of other
users on the system. Nothing in this paragraph shall affect the district’s right to
access the data.
Diligent effort must be made to delete mail daily from the Rose Tree Media School
District’s mail directory to avoid use of fileserver hard disk space.
Prohibitions
Students and staff are expected to act in a responsible, ethical and legal manner in
accordance with district policy, accepted rules of network etiquette, and federal and
state law. Specifically, the following uses are prohibited and constitute inappropriate
use:
Page 3 of 6
815. ACCEPTABLE USE OF INTERNET - Pg. 4
1.
Use of the network to facilitate illegal activity.
2.
Use of the network for commercial or for-profit purposes.
3.
Use of the network for non-work or non-school related work.
4.
Use of the network for product advertisement or political lobbying.
5.
Use of the network for hate mail, discriminatory remarks, and offensive or
inflammatory communication.
6.
Unauthorized or illegal installation, distribution, reproduction, or use of
copyrighted materials.
7.
Use of the network to access obscene or pornographic material.
8.
Use of inappropriate language or profanity on the network.
9.
Use of the network to transmit material likely to be offensive or objectionable
to recipients.
10. Use of the network to intentionally obtain or modify files, passwords, and data
belonging to other users.
11. Impersonation of another user, or anonymity, or use of pseudonyms.
12. Use of network facilities for fraudulent copying, communications, or
modification of materials in violation of copyright laws.
13. Loading or use of unauthorized games, programs, files, or other electronic
media.
14. Use of the network to disrupt the work of other users.
15. Destruction, modification, or abuse of network hardware, and software, and
data by physical or electronic means (viruses, worms, etc.).
16. Quoting personal communications in a public forum without the original
author's prior consent.
17. Circumventing or disabling the filter or any security measure.
18. Disclosing, using or disseminating any personal identifiable information of
themselves or other staff or students.
Page 4 of 6
815. ACCEPTABLE USE OF INTERNET - Pg. 5
19. Engaging in the practice of “hacking” in order to bypass computer and
network security for any purpose whatsoever.
Security
System security is protected through the use of passwords. Failure to adequately
protect or update passwords could result in unauthorized access to personal or
district files. To protect the integrity of the system, the following guidelines shall be
followed:
Employees and students shall not reveal their passwords to another individual.
Users are not to use a computer that has been logged in under another student's or
teacher's name.
Any user identified as a security risk or having a history of problems with other
computer systems may be denied access to the network.
Safety
To the greatest extent possible, users of the network will be protected from
harassment or unwanted or unsolicited communication. Any network user who
receives threatening or unwelcome communications shall immediately bring them to
the attention of a teacher or administrator.
Network users shall not reveal personal addresses or telephone numbers to other
users on the network.
The district will take appropriate measures through the use of hardware and/or
software tools in an effort to prevent any user from being exposed to graphic, text,
and any other form of obscene, child pornography, or other material that is harmful
to minors. This includes using one or more Internet content filtering agents that will
remove and/or block inappropriate Internet content related to, but not limited to, any
of the following topics:
ƒ
ƒ
ƒ
ƒ
ƒ
ƒ
ƒ
ƒ
ƒ
“Adults only” sites
Alcohol
Drugs
Sexual content
Nudity
Violence
Weapons
Tobacco
Gambling
Page 5 of 6
815. ACCEPTABLE USE OF INTERNET - Pg. 6
ƒ
ƒ
ƒ
ƒ
ƒ
ƒ
ƒ
ƒ
Games (non-educational)
Hate or discrimination
Illegal activities
Computer “hacking”
Pornography
Unethical use of information
Sites that require personal identifiable information from students
These Internet content filtering agents may not be deactivated or circumvented
by any RTM computer user for any purpose. Notwithstanding filter
implementation, the user retains full responsibility for his/her actions.
Consequences For Inappropriate Use
The network user shall be responsible for damages to the equipment, systems, and
software resulting from deliberate or willful acts.
Illegal use of the network; intentional deletion or damage to files of data belonging
to others; copyright violations or theft of services will be reported to the appropriate
legal authorities for possible prosecution.
General rules for behavior and communications apply when using the Internet, in
addition to the stipulations of this policy. Loss of access and other disciplinary
actions shall be consequences for inappropriate use.
Vandalism will result in cancellation of access privileges. Vandalism is defined as
any malicious attempt to harm or destroy data of another user, Internet or other
networks. This includes, but is not limited to, the uploading or creation of computer
viruses.
Copyright
P.L. 94-553
Sec. 107
The illegal use of copyrighted software by students and staff is prohibited. Any data
uploaded to or downloaded from the network shall be subject to "fair use"
guidelines.
Disclaimer
The school district makes no warranties of any kind, whether express or implied, for
the service it is providing. The School District is not responsible, and will not be
responsible, for any damages, including loss of data resulting from delays, nondeliveries, missed deliveries, or service interruption. Use of any information
obtained through the use of the School District's computers is at the user's risk. The
School District disclaims responsibility for the accuracy or quality of information
obtained through the Internet or E-mail.
Page 6 of 6
No. 118
Attachment B
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Formatted: Indent: First line: 0"
ROSE TREE MEDIA
SCHOOL DISTRICT
SECTION:
PROGRAMS
TITLE:
INDEPENDENT STUDY
ADOPTED:
August 22, 2002
REVISED:
Formatted Table
118. INDEPENDENT STUDY
1. Purpose
The Board authorizes the Superintendent to approve shall consider the approval of a
courses of independent study for a properly qualified student, as recommended by
the Superintendent, on the condition provided that such students will demonstrate
achievement of established academic standards as a result of participation in the
independent study and subject to the following criteria.
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The purposes course of independent study shall be to:
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1. Extend the learning goals of the educational program.
2. Develop students' judgment and self-reliance in the conduct of their learning
experience.
3. Draw upon community resources as well as school resources for student's
educational programs.
4. Include a greater variety of learning experiences within the educational program.
5. Identify and explore an area of particular interest.
6. Set personal learning goals and work toward achieving them, with appropriate
staff guidance.
7. Learn to use various research tools and draw sound conclusion from research
findings.
2. Authority
Title 22
Sec. 4.4
The Board Superintendent or designee shall approve each course or programs of
courses of independent study and may designate the number of credits toward
graduation to be awarded upon successful completion of each such course or
program, except that the Board reserves the right to assign no credit for such an
approved course. The Superintendent or designee shall determine whether the
course may replace a required course for graduation. All approved courses shall be
reported to the Board.
Page 1 of 2
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118. INDEPENDENT STUDY - Pg. 2
3. Delegation of
Responsibility
Each such course of independent study must meet the requirements of applicable
laws and regulations.
Deleted: ¶
The Superintendent or designee shall develop procedures for the implementation of
independent study which:
1. Counsel students who apply for independent study.
2. Develop specified, measurable, instructional objectives and standards for each
planned course of independent study.
3. Monitor the progress of each student.
4. Certify the completion of each course of independent study based upon the
original specified objectives.
5. Prepare recommendations for Superintendent approval of courses or programs of
courses of appropriate for independent study.
Deleted: Board
Formatted: Strikethrough
Recommendations shall include the qualifications of the student, the objectives
established for the course, a description of the method of study and research to be
undertaken, the staff members assigned to advise the project, the manner in which
the project will be evaluated, and a proposal for the number of credits to be awarded
for the course.
4. Guidelines
Courses of independent study need not be limited to participation by a single student
but may involve more than one or a group of students. subject to Board approval.
Deleted: The Board directs that only
those students shall be admitted to
courses of independent study who have
demonstrated academic proficiency,
maturity of judgment, a strong motivation
to learn, and self-reliance.¶
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Deleted: ¶
¶
¶
¶
¶
Page 2 of 2
Attachment C
No. 911
ROSE TREE MEDIA
SCHOOL DISTRICT
SECTION:
COMMUNITY
TITLE:
NEWS MEDIA RELATIONS
ADOPTED:
February 28, 2002
REVISED:
911. NEWS MEDIA RELATIONS
1. Delegation of
Responsibility
The Superintendent and his/her designee the Community Relations Coordinator are
to be designated as the only official spokespersons of the district. The
Superintendent or designee shall coordinate the release of information concerning
the district and the actions of the Board. The Board President or their designee will
be the official spokesperson for the Board. All media inquiries, other than those to
Board members, shall be routed to the Superintendent or designee. Upon request,
other staff may be asked to talk to the media as official representatives of the district,
depending on the circumstances.
All employees and Board members have the right to talk to the media, and the right
to refrain from talking to the media. However, unless the employee/Board member
has been asked by the Board or the district to talk to the media, s/he should indicate
that the views expressed are his/her own views and not necessarily those of the
district or the Board.
2. Guidelines
The media are welcome to attend any public Board or district committee meetings
and will be provided copies of the agenda and/or backup information upon request.
At Board meetings, space will be provided for media representatives. Should
members of the media have questions about obtaining materials or about the
meetings, they may contact the Board Secretary or the superintendent’s
office.community relations coordinator.
The media have a right of access to all public documents under the Public Records
Act. The district shall not release information which is privileged from disclosure or
confidential by law, without prior Board authorization.
The Superintendent or designee and principal or designee of each school may
provide the media with information related to district programs and needs, student
awards, school accomplishments and events of special interest.
Page 1 of 4
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Deleted:
Deleted: the
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911. NEWS MEDIA RELATIONS - Pg. 2
Access to Schools
While the district appreciates the role of the media and will cooperate with the media
in their efforts to fulfill that role to the extent possible, the district's primary
responsibility is to its students and their parents/guardians, to provide a solid
education and a secure and safe educational environment. The district will maintain
a responsible balance between these two roles.
The Superintendent, designee, or school principal has the authority when deemed
necessary to take such action as is reasonably needed to maintain order, continuity of
instruction, and assure a safe educational environment, including but not limited to,
closing the campus to all persons other than students, district staff or law
enforcement officers.
Representatives of the media are welcome on school campuses, subject to Board
policy and these regulations:
1.
2.
During special school events open to the public such as open houses, public
performances, and sporting events, members of the media are welcome to attend
without any requirements for advance notification or checking in at the office.
However, if any special arrangements are needed, such as access to electrical
outlets or other types of needs, those should be arranged with the school or
superintendent’s office community relations coordinator in advance. The school
district will work with the media to enable it to cover the event, and it is
expected that the media will work with the district to avoid any undue
disruption. Media representatives are encouraged to wear badges identifying
them as members of the media.
Representatives of the media who desire to have access to school sites during
times when students are present, other than for public events, need to obtain
permission from the school principal or person in charge of the school in the
absence of the principal, or superintendent’s office. the community relations
coordinator. Members of the media will be welcomed and permission will be
granted if the purpose of the visit is consistent with the school's educational
purpose, and school officials believe the visitor's presence on campus will not
disrupt the school or threaten the safety of students or staff. To ensure minimum
interruption of the regular classroom program, classroom visits will be first
arranged with the teacher and principal or designee. Administrators should be
familiar with the guidelines issued by the Superintendent to assist them in
determining whether the stated purpose is consistent with the school's
educational purpose. Administrators may not deny access based upon the
anticipated story, nor should the determination be delayed as a means of
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911. NEWS MEDIA RELATIONS - Pg. 3
denying timely access.
3.
In order to assure that the school campuses are safe, all media representatives
need to check in at the school office upon arrival on the campus, and to furnish
upon request their name and business affiliation and be prepared to show
identification. The principal may decide whether the media representative
should be escorted by a district staff member.
4.
Media representatives who have been granted access to be on a school campus
may photograph, film, and conduct interviews within the following guidelines:
a.
Representatives may not disrupt the educational program or school activities
and may not enter classes in session except with the explicit permission of
the principal or designee.
b.
The interview, photographing or filming must be related to the stated
purpose of the visit. The media may not question students on campus on
subjects that the district is legally prohibited from asking them pursuant to
state or federal law. These restricted subjects include questions about the
student's personal beliefs or practices in sex, family life, morality, and
religion or the parents'/guardians' beliefs and practices in sex, family life,
morality, and religion.
c.
Subject to the media representative's visit to a school site being consistent
with the school district's educational purpose and the reason for which the
media representative has requested to be at the school, staff may provide the
name of a student, the grade level, honors, activities and the name of the
school the student attends, unless the student's parent/guardian has
submitted a written request to the school requesting that such information
not be disclosed. No other access to student records or personally
identifiable student information may be provided without written
parent/guardian permission.
d.
If the media representative desires to photograph students while on campus,
s/he must make arrangements with the principal or school administrator. The
purpose of this is to protect the privacy and safety of students since, for
example, there are students whose school attendance is concealed from a
parent/guardian under domestic violence restraining orders. There may also
be students whose parents/guardians have indicated to the school that they
do not want their child(ren) questioned or photographed by the media.
e.
Students or staff have the option to agree or not to be interviewed or
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911. NEWS MEDIA RELATIONS - Pg. 4
photographed. Principals/designees may advise students and staff of this
right.
f.
Prior written parent permission is necessary to photograph, film or interview
special education students.
g.
Students who choose to speak with media representatives approved to be on
campus may do so without district restraint on the students' right of free
speech. Parents/guardians may decide whether or not they want their
child(ren) to communicate with media representatives, and may inform the
school in writing of their objection to such communication or to having their
child's picture taken by the media. The school will attempt to honor such
requests.
Staff and students shall not touch news media representatives, cameras or recording
equipment, unless invited to do so.
Disruptions
Whenever in the professional judgment of the principal or person in charge of the
school a disruption to the educational program or a threat to the safety of students or
staff is occurring or is or may be imminent, the principal/designee has the authority
to close the campus to anyone other than students, staff and law enforcement, or
such other persons as may be needed for the assistance of the school. Any visitor,
including a media representative, who is requested to leave the school grounds must
depart promptly. In such circumstances, the superintendent or his/her designee the
community relations coordinator will work with the media to arrange access to
information and persons with whom the media may talk, while ensuring that the
principal is in charge of the school and is able to take such action as is needed under
the circumstances.
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911. NEWS MEDIA RELATIONS - Pg. 5
Page 5 of 4
ROSE TREE MEDIA SCHOOL DISTRICT
Attachment D
CAPITAL PROJECTS
December 7, 2006
BID TABULATION
Award is recommended to the vendor listed on the basis of having submitted the lowest bid
which meets the requirements of the specification.
PROJECT TITLE:
Elevator Replacement
PROJECT DESCRIPTION:
Remove & Replace Existing Elevator at Springton Lake M.S.
BID OPENED:
Tuesday, December 5, 2006 at 2:00 P.M.
NEW ADA COMPLIANT ELEVATOR & 5 YEARS ANNUAL PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE SERVICE
AWARDEE:
AMOUNT AWARDED:
Burkey Construction Co.
BASE BID No.1
Complete removal of existing
Elevator except Cylinder Casting
Install new ADA compliant
Elevator and controls
ALTERNATE BID No.1
$236,407.00
Burkey
Construction Co.
The Fayette
Group, Inc.
C. H. Schwertner
& Son, Inc.
$203,171.00
$213,416.00
$245,000.00
$9,370.00
$13,500.00
$10,000.00
($19,000.00)
($19,000.00)
($19,000.00)
$42,866.00
$51,900.00
$92,000.00
5 Year's of annual inspections
& preventive maintenance
ALTERNATE BID No.2
Credit to reuse existing platform,
sling and guide rails.
UNIT PRICE No. 1
ROSE TREE MEDIA SCHOOL DISTRICT
Attachment E
MAINTENANCE & OPERATIONS
November 30, 2006
BID TABULATION
Award is recommended to the vendor listed on the basis of having submitted the lowest bid
which meets the requirements of the specification.
PROJECT TITLE:
Masonry Wall Restoration
PROJECT DESCRIPTION:
Repair, Repoint and Waterproof Selected Masonry Walls ( PHASE I )
BID OPENED:
Monday, June 12, 2006 at 2:00 P.M.
MEDIA ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
AWARDEE:
AMOUNT AWARDED:
Premier Bldg Restoration, Inc.
$61,895.00
BASE BID
Change Order
No. 1
Change Order
No. 2
Change Order
No. 3
TOTAL
Premier Bldg Restoration, Inc.
$61,895.00
$38,000.00
$45,010.00
$29,630.00
$174,535.00
Duall Bldg Restoration, Inc.
$79,000.00
Shared Systems Technology, Inc.
$86,500.00
Schneider Restorations, Inc.
$96,500.00
Caretti, Inc.
$97,640.00
Mangan Masonry Restoration, Inc.
$104,468.00
Jocanz, Inc.
$144,000.00
Datum Restoration
$144,500.00