MT. DIABLO UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT

 

BOARD MEETING – June 19, 2007

 

ATTENDANCE:      Board: Gary Eberhart, April Treece, Dick Allen, Linda Mayo, Paul Strange

Administrative Staff: Superintendent Gary McHenry; Associate Superintendent Alan Young; assistant superintendents Roger Bylund, Mildred Browne, Gail Isserman, and Dick Nicoll; Chief Financial Officer Gloria Gamblin; General Counsel Greg Rolen

 

1.       CALL TO ORDER: President Eberhart called the meeting to order at 5:00 p.m. in Romaine Hall at Mt. Diablo High School and led the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.

 

PUBLIC COMMENT: None

 

STUDY SESSION: Compliance Monitoring re: Highly Qualified Teachers (HQT)
Lynda Nichols of the state Department of Education explained regulations under the federal No Child Left Behind Act that require public school districts to have fully credentialed (i.e. “highly qualified”) teachers in all Title I and designated “low performing” schools.

 

CLOSED SESSION: The Board adjourned to Closed Session at 6:01 p.m. in the faculty lunchroom at Mt. Diablo High School. Topics discussed included 2 expulsion cases and one request for readmission; existing litigation (Nolan v. MDUSD); anticipated litigation (one potential case); and negotiations.

 

Readmissions   The Board voted 5-0-0 to approve staff’s recommendation to readmit one student.

 

2.       RECONVENE OPEN SESSION: The Board returned to Open Session in Romaine Hall at Mt. Diablo High School at 7:30 p.m.

 

Expulsion
Student 68-07: Mayo moved, Treece seconded, and the Board voted 5-0-0 that Student 68-07 be expelled from all schools programs of the Mt. Diablo Unified School District and that Student 68-07 may apply for readmission after January 25, 2008. It is required that Student 68-07 participate in individual counseling, community service, the COPS program, the District’s Teen Anger Management Workshop, and show evidence of a successful school experience, prior to applying for readmission.

 

Student 69-07: Allen moved, Treece seconded, and the Board voted 5-0-0 that Student 69-07 be expelled from all schools programs of the Mt. Diablo Unified School District and that Student 69-07 may apply for readmission after January 25, 2008.  It is required that Student 69-07 participate in individual counseling, community service, the COPS program, the District’s Teen Anger Management Workshop, and show evidence of a successful school experience, prior to applying for readmission.

 

Eberhart reported the items discussed and action taken in Closed Session.

 

3.       CONSENT AGENDA

After removing 3.9.4 and 3.14.3 for separate discussion at Treece’s request, Mayo moved, Strange seconded, and the Board voted 5-0-0 to approve the remaining items on the Consent Agenda:

3.1  Minutes – none.

 

3.2  Certificated Personnel

3.2.1 Leaves of Absence, Resignations, Retirements, Employment

 

3.2.2 Resolution 06/07-111 Provisional Internship Permit (PIP) Request

Adopted Resolution #06/07-111, authorizing Cynthia Opsahl and Mary McClaran to apply for a Provisional Internship Permit (PIP) in order to complete their assignments for the 2007-08 school year.

 

3.2.3 Resolution 06/07-112 Variable Term Waiver Requests

Adopted Resolution #06/07-112 authorizing Virginia Golden, Carrie Weil, Paul Stone, and Jess Mays to apply for a Variable Term Waiver, giving them additional time to complete certain requirements for the credential that authorizes their service. The waiver request is made when there is not a properly credentialed person available for the position.

 

3.2.4 Increase Psychologist Time

Increased Psychologist time by two days to support the new 9th grade academy at Alliance. Fiscal Impact:  The annual cost for this position is $41,997.82. Funding Source:  Medi-Cal Budget (3097)

 

3.3  Classified Personnel

3.3.1 Leaves of Absence, Resignations, Retirements, Employment

 

3.3.2 Request Approval to Eliminate a Vacant Part-Time Senior Instructional Assistant Position and Create an Instructional Assistant – Computer Position at Sequoia Elementary School

Eliminated a vacant 19-hour/week, school-day-only Senior Instructional Assistant position and created a 19-hour/week, school-day-only Instructional Assistant–Computer position at Sequoia Elementary School. Fiscal Impact:  An additional $438.85 for fiscal year 2007-2008. Funding source: School Improvement Program

 

3.4  Monthly Budget Transfers and/or Budget Increases/Decreases for the Month of May 2007

 

3.5  Fiscal Transactions for May 2007

 

3.6  Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between Alameda County Office of Education School Assistance and Intervention Team and Mt. Diablo Unified School District to Support High Priority Schools

Approved MOU for Alameda County Office of Education to provide technical assistance and support to Bel Air, Cambridge, Fair Oaks, Meadow Homes, Shore Acres, and Ygnacio Valley elementary schools and Glenbrook and Riverview middle schools from July 1, 2007, through June 30, 2008. Fiscal Impact:  $160,000  Funding Source:  High Priority Schools Grant Program

 

3.7  Application for Gifted and Talented Education Funds

Approved submittal of an application to the California Department of Education for funds for the Gifted And Talented Education (GATE) program. There is no impact to the General Fund. Funding Source:  $274,297 in State Categorical Funding, 2006-2007.

 

3.8  Specialized Secondary Program Demonstration Site Amended Grant

Approved receipt of an additional $10,000 from the amended Specialized Secondary Program Demonstration Site Grant to be used to support professional development and other activities for the ClaytonArts Academy. There is no impact to the General Fund. Funding Source:  California Department of Education

 

3.9  Grant Application Requests

3.9.1 Keller Mitigation Grant

Approved submittal of an application to the Board of Supervisors-District V, Keller Canyon Landfill Mitigation Program for a $50,000 Keller Mitigation Grant to expand the enrichment, youth development and community services component of the CARES After School Program at Bel Air, Delta View, Rio Vista, and Shore Acres elementary schools; and Riverview Middle School. There is no impact to the General Fund.

 

3.9.2 Riverside County Achievement Teams (RCAT+) and Special Education Certificate Program Grant

Approved submittal of an application to the Riverside County Achievement Teams (RCAT+) and Special Education Certificate Program for a $50,000 grant to provide professional development, coaching, and support in monitoring instructional practices that will lead to increased student achievement. There is no impact to the General Fund. Funding Source:  California Department of Education

 

3.9.3 First 5 Contra Costa School Readiness Grant

Approved receipt of a $210,089 grant from First 5 Contra Costa School Readiness Program to implement preschool programs at seven elementary schools. There is no impact to the General Fund. Adult Education provides $30,000 in matching funds through Adult Education attendance review. Mt. Diablo Unified School District provides $40,000 in Title I funds as a match to support parent involvement in school readiness activities. Funding Source:  First 5 Contra Costa

 

3.9.4 Smaller Learning Community Grant—See “Separate Action” below.

 

3.9.5 Firedoll Foundation Grant

Approved Mt. Diablo Adult Education’s request to submit a proposal for  $12,000 per year in funding from the Firedoll Foundation to continue the Student Support Services Specialist position in the “On Track” program, which serves adult students who have acquired brain injury. There is no impact to the General Fund. Funding Source:  Firedoll Foundation

 

3.9.6 Foster Youth Services

Approved submittal of an application for a three-year $395,000 grant from the California Department of Education to support the District’s Foster Youth Services program. It is one of the six Core School District Foster Youth Services programs specified in Education Code Section 42920. There is no impact to the General Fund. Funding Source:  California Department of Education

 

3.10    Independent Contract for Foreign Language Interpreters through California Translation International

Approved a $35,000 contract with California Translation International to provide foreign language interpreters on an on-call basis for non-English-speaking parents and when limited English-speaking students are being assessed. Fiscal Impact:  $35,000 from the General Fund. Funding Source:  Program Specialist – Regionalized Services Budget (1300)

 

3.11    Contract Amendments

3.11.1 Contract Amendment—Inspection Services, Inc.

Contract amendment in the amount of $26,301 for testing and inspection services required in the construction of the new classrooms at Clayton Valley, College Park, Concord, and Northgate high schools and Strandwood and Ygnacio Valley elementary schools. Funding Source:  Developer Fees

 

3.11.2 Contract Amendment—Inspection Services, Inc.

Contract amendment in the amount of $5,000 for testing and inspection services associated with the provision of site work and utilities required for the new modular restrooms at Concord High School, El Dorado Middle School, and Hidden Valley and Meadow Homes elementary schools. Funding Source:  Developer Fees - $4,000; Measure C - $1,000

 

3.11.3 Contract Amendment—Charles Ham Associates

Contract amendment in the amount of $134,550 to provide comprehensive architectural and engineering services related to the construction of an additional five-classroom wing and a 2,000-square-foot technology center on the Olympic High School campus. Funding Source:  Developer Fees

 

3.12    Purchase of Storage Unit for the Concord High School Music Program

Approved the purchase of two 10x20 Tuff Shed units to store uniforms and instruments for the Concord High music program. Currently, such items are stored in a metal cargo container that is in poor repair and will be removed. Fiscal Impact:  $12,000  Funding Source:  $5,000 from Concord High School Measure A Furniture and Equipment and up to $7,000 from Program 5289

 

3.13    Award of Design Services Contract

Awarded contract not to exceed $7,500 to PHd Architects for comprehensive architectural and engineering services related to the design and installation of a fully compliant re-engineered parking lot at Mt. Diablo High School. Funding Source:  Deferred Maintenance Fund

 

3.14    Award of Purchase Orders

3.14.1 Award of Purchase Order to Edwards Service

Approved $103,640 purchase order for Edwards Service to provide fire alarm system testing district wide. Funding Source:  General Fund

 

3.14.2 Award of Purchase Order to Biland Construction Company

Approved $34,600 purchase order for  Biland Construction Company to replace a foot bridge at Sequoia Middle School. Funding Source:  Pleasant Hill Redevelopment

 

3.14.3 Award of Purchase Order to Engineered Facility Equipment—See “Separate Action” below.

 

3.15    Award of Bids

3.15.1 Award of Bid 1473 to Biland Construction Company

Awarded bid in the amount of $259,400 to Biland Construction Company to provide the concrete flatwork repair at Fair Oaks. Hidden Valley, Meadow Homes, and Valle Verde elementary schools; Riverview Middle School; and Olympic High School. Funding Source:  Deferred Maintenance

 

3.15.2 Award of Bid 1474 to Harry L. Murphy, Inc.

Awarded bid in the amount of $149,000 to Harry L. Murphy, Inc. to provide the flooring improvements in 2007 at Holbrook, Meadow Homes, and Mountain View elementary schools, Foothill and Riverview middle schools, Mt. Diablo and Ygnacio Valley high schools, and Loma Vista Adult Center. Funding Source:  Deferred Maintenance

 

3.15.3 Award of Bid 1475 to Nema Construction

Awarded in the amount of $249,000 bid to Nema Construction to replace the intercom and telephone system at Bancroft Elementary School. Funding Source:  Deferred Maintenance $203,602; Measure C - $45,398

 

3.16    Real Property Lease Agreement Renewals

3.16.1 Contra Costa County/Mental Health Services – Mt. Diablo Unified School District

Renewed a lease agreement with Contra Costa County for placement of a relocatable building at Mt. Diablo High School for mental health services through a contract with a service provider. The term of the renewal is for 12 months beginning July 1, 2007, and ending June 30, 2008, with automatic renewals on a yearly basis for 5 additional years. The Board approved the initial agreement on October 9, 2001. There is no impact to the General Fund. The annual rent remains at $1.00 per year with the County reimbursing the District for utility costs monthly.

 

3.16.2 Walnut Acres Day Care Center, Inc. – Mt. Diablo Unified School District

Renewed a lease agreement with Walnut Acres Day Care Center, Inc. for placement of a relocatable building at Walnut Acres Elementary School. The term of the renewal is for July 1, 2007, through June 30, 2008, with automatic renewal each year for five additional years. There is no impact to the General Fund. The annual rent remains at $1.00 in addition to monthly utility charges.

 

3.17    Real Property Lease Agreement – Mt. Diablo Unified School District

Authorized the District to enter into a real property lease agreement with the Mt. Diablo Region YMCA for placement of a relocatable building at Valhalla Elementary School for the purpose of providing before- and after-school child care. There is no impact to the General Fund. The annual rent will be $1.00 per year with the YMCA reimbursing the District for utility costs monthly.

 

3.18    Contracts

3.18.1 Contract between Mt. Diablo Unified School District and City of Concord

Approved $602,233 contract with City of Concord to provide recreation services in the Mt. Diablo CARES (Collaborative for Academics, Recreation and Enrichment for Students) After School Programs at Cambridge and Meadow Homes elementary schools and El Dorado, Glenbrook, and Oak Grove middle schools. There is no impact to the General Fund. Funding Source:  California After School Education and Safety Program and the California Nutrition Network grants.

 

3.18.2 Contract between Mt. Diablo Unified School District and Bay Area Community Resources (BACR)

Approved $729,955 contract with Bay Area Community Resources to provide recreation services in the Mt. Diablo CARES (Collaborative for Academics, Recreation and Enrichment for Students) After School Programs at Fair Oaks, Holbrook, Sun Terrace, Wren Avenue, and Ygnacio Valley elementary schools. There is no impact to the General Fund. Funding Source:  California After School Enrichment and Safety Program and the California Nutrition Network grants.

 

3.18.3 Contract between Mt. Diablo Unified School District and Ambrose Recreation and Park District

Approved $977,615 contract with Ambrose Recreation and Park District to provide recreation services in the Mt. Diablo CARES (Collaborative for Academics, Recreation and Enrichment for Students) After School Programs at Bel Air, Delta View, Rio Vista, and Shore Acres elementary schools; and Riverview Middle School. There is no impact to the General Fund. Funding Source:  California After School Education and Safety Program and the California Nutrition Network grants.

 

3.19    Amendment to Contract between Mt. Diablo Unified School District and City of Concord

Approved amendment totaling  $73,984 to contract with the City of Concord for additional staffing to provide recreation services in the Mt. Diablo CARES (Collaborative for Academics, Recreation, and Enrichment for Students) After School Program. There is no impact to the General Fund. Funding Source:  California After School Education and Safety Program and the California Nutrition Network grants.

 

SEPARATE ACTION

3.9.4 Smaller Learning Community Grant

Treece said she wanted to point out that more than 8 million dollars in grant applications are listed on the Consent Agenda for approval at this meeting. She is particularly pleased to see the District apply for a federal Smaller Learning Community grant of about 7.5 million dollars. She said the application show that “we continue to work very hard to bring new resources into the District that meet our strategic goals to serve all students with excellence.”

Treece then moved, Allen seconded, and the Board voted 5-0-0 to approve the District’s submittal of an application to the U.S. Department of Education for a five-year Smaller Learning Community Grant that would provide up to $1,250,000 a year for each of the six comprehensive high schools, for a maximum total of $7,500,000. There is no impact to the General Fund. No matching funds required. Funding Source:  U.S. Department of Education, Title V, Par, D. Subpart 5 of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (ESEA) (20 U.S.C. 7249) as amended by the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001 (P.L. 107-110).

 

3.14.3 Award of Purchase Order to Engineered Facility Equipment

Treece said she’d heard concerns about investing Measure A money in lockers and asked for a staff report. Dick Nicoll reported that on November 14, 1995, the Board approved the replacement of lockers at five high schools. Northgate was not included because its lockers were in good shape at that time. The Measure A Committee was concerned about the maintenance of the lockers, so staff at each high school developed a maintenance plan. The Measure A funds that will be allocated to the Northgate project are site “flow through funds” that go directly to the school. Eberhart pointed out that the Measure A Committee wanted assurance that high-quality lockers would be purchased and that they would be maintained conscientiously at the sites so they would last a long time. He asked for assurance that Northgate also purchases high-quality lockers and agrees to maintain them so they will last a long time. Nicoll said Northgate will also develop and maintain a maintenance plan. Maintenance and Operations Director Pete Pedersen said the specifications call for high-quality lockers. Eberhart asked that the Board be given a copy of the school’s agreement to maintain the lockers.

 

Treece then moved, Strange seconded, and the Board voted 5-0-0 to award an $83,655 purchase order to Engineered Facility Equipment to replace lockers at Northgate High School. Funding Source:  Measure A

 

4.       RECOGNITIONS

4.1  KAPOW – Kids and the Power of Work

Roger Bylund described the KAPOW (Kids And the Power Of Work) program, in which trained business partners come into the classroom six to eight times a year to teach elementary students about the world of work using professionally designed curriculum. He introduced Felicia Oliveri, parent who coordinates the KAPOW and Principal for a Day programs. He then thanked and expressed appreciation for four business partners who not only participate in KAPOW but also contribute to the District in many other ways. Representatives and their companies included:

·          Janet Auer, Chevron

·          Ken Dami, Tesoro

·          Rachel Finnigan, John Muir Health

·          Keith McMahon, Concord Chamber of Commerce

President Eberhart presented each with a certificate of appreciation on behalf of the Board.

 

5.       BOARD FORUM

This item is here for the Board of Education to discuss any issues of concern.

5.1  Committee Minutes

 

5.2  Board Reports

Allen reported that he’d spent the last 10 days attending the 11 graduations at the District high schools and alternative education programs. In addition, he attended the Town of Pacheco’s 150th birthday on June 9, the 5th grade promotion at Woodside on June 14, and the public meeting on the Concord Naval Weapons Station Reuse Plan on June 16. The next meeting on this topic is August 4 with the Concord City Council. He called the Reuse Plan process “exciting” and encouraged everyone to participate. He also reported on the June Parent Advisory Council meeting, where school-parent communication was discussed at length as well as the topic of day care providers. He suggested that the Board have a study session next year on the topic of day care at District school sites. Some questions: How are providers selected? What oversight does the District have? How are parent concerns received? What happens if District needs the day care space partway through the school year?

Strange said he enjoyed attending the high school graduations as it was “refreshing to see what we are working for” and touching to see parent support and students moving on. He also attended the 5th grade promotion at Highlands, which was also “great.”

Mayo commented that the high school graduations have been the high point of past two weeks and noted that it is seldom acknowledged what an emotional time this is for faculty members who have invested so much time in their students. She enjoyed seeing elementary and middle school teachers and administrators in the audiences and was impressed with the remarkable talent of the graduates, both as speakers and as musicians.

Treece said all the graduations were exciting, with speakers at each noting that “the Class of 2007 was very special.” Saying she was pleased to see the industry partners recognized earlier this evening, she announced that over the next several weeks business partners will be helping to provide summer camps in the areas of bio-tech, environmental science, and engineering construction and manufacturing. All the camps are connected with local colleges, a collaboration that provides important support to students. She also announced that Willard Daggett, president of the International Center for Leadership in Education, will be invited to speak in Contra Costa County next year. She said she is looking forward to attending the Greater Concord Chamber of Commerce’s installation luncheon tomorrow at which Dick Allen will begin a year term as president and to working with the Chamber’s Business-Education Committee in the year ahead.

Eberhart said he also enjoyed and was moved by the high school graduations, commenting that there was “a great set of graduates this year.”

 

5.3  Issues of Concern

Strange remarked that the presentation he made at the June 5 Board meeting showed that the District is competitive in terms of teacher salaries, but not so in regard to medical benefits. It also showed that the District receives the lowest per student revenue of all districts in Contra Costa and Alameda counties. As a result of his research, he concluded that the District needs more money, so proposed that the District seek a large parcel tax from the community to pay for increased employee salaries. He said he’d like to put a parcel tax on the November ballot and asked for there to be a discussion of this proposal at the June 26 Board meeting or at a special Board meeting in July in order to meet an August deadline for adopting a resolution to put an initiative on the ballot. Allen said he’d like to hear the results of the community survey (to be presented next on this meeting’s agenda) before making a decision. Eberhart said he is receiving e-mails and phone calls that lead him to believe that there is support for a parcel tax. If November is too soon, he suggested the initiative be placed on the February 2008 ballot.

 

6.       PUBLIC COMMENT: None

 

7.       COMMUNICATIONS: None

 

8.       REPORTS/INFORMATION

8.1  Public Opinion Poll – Brad Senden

Consultant Brad Senden of the Center for Community Opinion presented the results of a telephone survey of 623 randomly selected registered voters in the District from April 13 through 19, 2007, to determine support for a parcel tax and/or general obligation bond. Highlights:

          Bond

          A bond proposal under the provisions of Proposition 39 (a 55% majority to pass) is feasible.

          There is strong support for additional renovation and modernization of District schools. Receiving more than 60 percent: facilities for science labs, voc/tech training programs, class size reduction, language and computer labs, performing arts centers, and outdoor athletics as well as upgrades to heating/ventilating systems and replacement portables.

          Upgrading District outdoor athletic facilities is well supported, but adding swimming pools and replacing irrigation systems are not.

          To be successful the cost of a bond would need to be set at or below $32 per $100,000 of assessed valuation.

          Parcel tax

          A parcel tax proposal requires a 2/3 majority to pass.

          There is strong support for many of the ways the District might use parcel tax funds. Receiving more than 66.6 percent: attracting/retaining high-quality teachers and staff, providing up-to-date technology in the classroom

          Support for a parcel tax at an amount that would meet District needs does not reach the 2/3 vote required.

          General

          Three potential dates for an election in 2008: February, June, and November

          Voters are most likely to read information about the District if it is in the newspaper or sent to them via U.S. mail.

          Voters have either a good opinion about the District’s performance or no opinion at all.

 

Board comment   Treece said she was impressed that Walnut Creek and Pleasant Hill voters voiced strong support for a bond. She asked if socio-economics have any impact on voting. Senden said voters at the high and the low end of the economic ladder tend to support tax measures, but it is hard to get that data on specific voters without having asked for it during the poll, which he did not do. Also in response to Treece, Senden said the higher the income and education levels, the higher the likelihood an individual will vote. However, even stronger factors for an individual’s likelihood to vote are age and length of time lived at the current address. He confirmed her statement that only 25 percent of voters are parents who have students in the District and suggested ways to communicate with the non-parent voter. He said special elections better serve the purpose of a parcel tax or bond initiative because there are fewer issues competing for voters’ attention. He explained that most parcel taxes start at a modest amount and increase with subsequent elections. Strange, noting Senden’s rationale for special elections, said the District has two upcoming opportunities: November 2007 and June 2008. He asked for a disaggregation of the poll results for Pleasant Hill and Walnut Creek. Eberhart said the Board will place a discussion of this issue on the agenda for its next meeting.

 

8.2  SB12 Regulations – Competitive Food Sales on School Campuses

Kathleen Corrigan, director of food and nutrition services, explained the requirements of SB12, which the state legislature passed in response to the “obesity epidemic.” It restricts the sale of food and beverages on campus as of the 2007-08 school year and takes effect on July 1, 2007. She and her staff have met with staff, student, and parent groups to alert them to the requirements. Briefly, she explained, “Senate Bill 12 regulates all foods and beverages sold on campus from 30 minutes before until 30 minutes after the school day. It applies to all groups that sell food on campus, including the cafeteria, the student store, and the French Club. Any snacks sold on campus during the school day are limited to not more than 35 percent calories for fat, 10 percent calories for saturated fat, 35 percent sugar by weight, and a limit on the number of calories per serving. Any entrées sold individually in the cafeteria are limited to no more than 4 grams of fat per 100 calories and no more than 400 calories. Parents and/or adult groups cannot sell any food or beverage on campus during the school day. Sales can take place off campus; parents can pick up the item(s) when they come to pick up their children. Student groups are limited to one student organization a day selling up to three items; those items must meet the requirements for snacks.” She said that “SB12 provides new challenges for all of us, but it is the right thing to do to keep kids healthy, our first priority.”

On another topic, Corrigan said her staff has been looking for a substitute for Styrofoam trays. Paper is very expensive and they have recently found a sugar cane tray, which will be introduced in the fall.

 

Board comment   In response to Treece, Corrigan said students are buying fewer snacks and her staff hope to recoup revenue lost in that area by selling more full meals. Elementary schools are served by a central kitchen. In the fall all the high schools and most of the middle schools will follow the same menu. Mayo suggested that coaches, athletic directors, and booster clubs also be informed of the new requirements. She also pointed out that the school menus have long included the calorie counts for the meals. In response to Eberhart, Corrigan said her staff serves about 15,000 lunches and 5,000 breakfasts a day. Eberhart said, “Food Services is a critical piece of the support provided to students.” He called the new requirements an example of the hurdles Food Services staff continually have to leap to assure that what students are served is nutritious, healthy, and legal. “It’s just an amazing effort,” he said, thanking Corrigan and her staff for their work.

 

9.       SUPERINTENDENT'S REPORT: None

 

10.    BUSINESS

10.1    Appointment of Middle School Principal

Strange moved, Treece seconded, and the Board voted 5-0-0 to appoint Linda Hutcherson as Middle School Principal, assigned to Foothill Middle, effective July 1, 2007.

 

10.2    Appointment of Administrator, Special Education – Designated Instructional Services/Resource Specialist (DIS/RS)

Mayo moved, Treece seconded, and the Board voted 5-0-0- to appoint Berry Murray as Administrator, Special Education–Designated Instructional Services/Resource Specialist (DIS/RS), effective July 1, 2007.

 

10.3    Appointment of Chief Accountant

Treece moved, Mayo seconded, and the Board voted (3-2, Eberhart, Strange, no; motion passed) to appoint Marcie James as Chief Accountant, effective July 1, 2007.

 

Board comment   Eberhart said he could not support the appointment because the candidate will not have earned her B.S. degree until December 2007 and, he feels, does not have sufficient education or experience for the position.

 

10.4    Appointment of Program Specialist, Special Education

Mayo moved, Allen seconded, and the Board voted 5-0-0 to appoint Barbara Cowles as Program Specialist, Special Education, effective July 1, 2007.

 

10.5    Appointment of School Bus Driver Instructor

Allen moved, Strange seconded, and the Board voted 5-0-0 to appoint Phyllis Stewart as School Bus Driver Instructor, effective July 1, 2007.

 

10.6    Job Description for Adult and Career Education Fiscal Analyst Position—PULLED

 

10.7    Request Approval to Eliminate a Full-Time Adult and Career Education Fiscal Specialist and Create an Adult Education Fiscal Analyst Position for Loma Vista Adult Education—PULLED

 

10.8    Job Description for Adult and Career Education Accounting Specialist Position—PULLED

 

10.9    Request Approval to Eliminate a Full-Time Senior Account Clerk Position and Create an Adult and Career Education Accounting Specialist Position at Loma Vista Adult Education—PULLED

 

10.10  Job Description for Adult and Career Education Accountability Specialist Position—PULLED

 

10.11  Creation of a Full-time Adult and Career Education Accountability Specialist Position for Loma Vista Adult Education—PULLED

 

10.12  Request Approval to Eliminate a Full-Time Intermediate Typist Clerk Position and Create a Secretary Position at Loma Vista Adult Education

Allen moved, Strange seconded, and the Board voted 5-0-0 to approve the following change at the Mt. Diablo Adult Education program’s Loma Vista campus: eliminate a full-time, 12-month Intermediate Typist Clerk position, create a full-time, 12-month Secretary position, and appoint Employee #12877 to the new position. Fiscal Impact:  An additional $2,814.18 cost to Secondary Adult Education funds for fiscal year 2007-2008.

 


10.13  Adoption of the 2007-2008 Budget

The State Board of Education requires the Board of Education to certify that a review of the budget has been conducted in accordance with the state-adopted criteria and standards. The review has been completed. Gloria Gamblin presented the proposed District budget for 2007-08 for information only. It will be returned for action on June 26. Highlights:

          Revenue assumptions

          Cost Of Living Adjustment (COLA) announced in Governor’s May Revise is 4.53 percent; decline in student enrollment (ADA) reduces revenue, resulting in an effective COLA of 2.6 percent

          Federal programs are not receiving a COLA, so federal revenue will decrease by $5 million

          State programs will receive the 4.53 COLA, so state revenue for them will increase by $1 million

          Local revenue typically includes Mandated Cost Reimbursement ($2 million in 06-07), but have not heard that the District will receive the reimbursement in 07-08

          Contribution to Restricted Programs from General Fund = $37.7 million; of that:

§          Special Ed............................................... $25 million

§          Transportation.......................................... $3 million

§          Proposition 55 match........................... $8.4 million

§          Other programs........................................ $1 million

          Revenue Limit Sources total $195 million

          Total General Fund Revenue will be $286 million

          Expenditure assumptions

          Salaries

§          Certificated—will increase $1 million (due to increased summer school pay, additional vice principals, step-and-column, retiree savings)

§          Classified—will increase $100,000 (due to staffing changes, step-and-column)

          Benefits: medical up 50 percent; vision and dental up 5 percent

          Books and Supplies, Custodial supplies no change

          Utilities and insurance: up 10 percent

          Capital Outlay up $500,000, mostly  for Routine and Recurring Maintenance Account; as expenditures increase, so does the state-required reserve of 3 percent

          Indirect costs: charges will decrease slightly

          Total Expenditures will be $281,709,196; of that:

§          50 percent certificated salaries

§          16 percent classified

§          19 percent employee benefits

          Multiyear Projections

                                                                                      2007-08                             2008-09                         2009-10

          COLA decline                                                     4.53%                                 3.7%                               2.6%

          Enrollment decline                                           33,274                               32,800                           32,060

          Undesignated Ending Balance                   $4 million                          $7 million                    $8.7 million

          No deficit factor

          No salary increases included as yet

          No deficit spending in any of the three years

          Positive ending balance in all funds

          Conclusion: At this point in time the District financial position is very stable. Staff will recommend that the Board adopt a “positive certification” for 2007-08 budget at its meeting on June 26.

 

Board comment   Mayo said she asked questions of Gamblin earlier in the day and is comfortable with the responses. In response to Strange, Gamblin explained that $19 million to $24 million in Reserves. Eberhart noted that proposal does not include salary increases as they are still subject to negotiations.

 

10.14  Expenditure Plan for Proceeds for the Sale of the Former Oak Park Elementary School Site

Strange moved, Treece seconded, and the Board voted 5-0-0 to allocate the proceeds from the District’s share of the sale of the former Oak Park Elementary School site to each of the District’s six comprehensive high schools, a minimum of $300,000 each to be designated for athletic facility improvements. The Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors recently accepted a bid of $22 million for the purchase of the property. In approximately 24 months, the District will receive 10m percent of the proceeds after expenses. Fiscal Impact:  Up to $2.2 million. Funding Source:  Share of proceeds from sale of the former Oak Park Elementary School site.

 

Staff comment   McHenry stated that the proceeds must be used for playfields, tracks, and tennis courts, all facilities that the District has been trying to upgrade at the high schools. He said the funds could be used as a match for groups raising money to complete projects or that have a $300,000 project ready to undertake.

 

Public comment   Tim Jochner, Board member of Northgate Community Pride Foundation, voiced his support for the value of extracurricular activities and said the $300,000 for Northgate would enable the group match a donation and, therefore, to complete a $1 million sports facility at the school. Jeff Garzella, College Park High parent, said school facilities have an effect not just on the students but on the community as a whole. A group at CPHS is also trying to raise funds for an athletic field at the school.

 

Board comment   Strange pointed out that the money may not come to the District for two years.

 

10.15  Submission of Part I of the 2007-2008 Consolidated Application

Treece moved, Allen seconded, and the Board voted 5-0-0 to approve Part I of the 2007-2008 Consolidated Application for Funding Categorical Aid Programs. Each year at this time the District submits Part I of the application, which consists of the District’s assurance that all programs of the application are implemented according to state and federal mandates. There is no impact to the General Fund. Funding Source:  California state and U.S. federal entitlements fund the Consolidated Applications program

 

10.16  Board Policy 6112(a) – Instruction, School Day

Strange moved, Mayo seconded, and the Board voted 5-0-0 to adopt updated Board Policy 6112, Instruction, School Day, to reflect District and California School Board Association language. Presented as information at the June 5 meeting, this item was returned for action at this time.

 

10.17  Administrative Rule 5121 – Grades/Evaluation of Student Achievement

Allen moved, Treece seconded, and the Board voted 4-1-0 (Eberhart, no) to adopt revised Administrative Rule 5121, “Grades/Evaluation of Student Achievement,” which was updated to reflect California School Board Association language and to make sure the rules clearly state that parents must be notified when a student is receiving a D or F; specifically, that a student cannot receive an F if the parent has not been notified. Presented as information at the June 5 meeting, this item was returned for action at this time.

 

Board comment   Eberhart asked if the rule prevents teachers from grading on a curve. Vivian Boyd, director of curriculum and instruction, said it does, though she cannot say no teacher grades on a curve. Teachers are being encouraged, through the use of standards, to adopt new grading practices. The updated rule will give administrators and teachers the opportunity to review the practices. Eberhart vehemently disagreed with a statement in the rule that student attendance cannot be factored into the student’s grade. Boyd said the intent is to separate a student’s behaviors from his/her academic progress toward standards. Behaviors are described through a comment section on the report card. Eberhart said he wants more specific guidelines regarding absences and participation in extracurricular activities written into policy and/or rule. Boyd said there have been many discussions on the grading policy/rule throughout the year as it is a complex subject. Allen suggested that there be a deadline for notifying parents of a student’s potential D or F. Mayo argued that separating academic grades and behavior comments make it clear how a student is doing in mastering the subject. She also said that attendance problems may not be the student’s fault, but the parent’s, especially in the primary grades. She believes the rule needs to be as flexible as possible. Eberhart said he wants parents to get any information they request of a teacher. Treece said the additions to the existing rule are good ones and is concerned about writing into policy edicts that address a few parents’ demands rather than leaving it open in recognition of teachers’ varying styles and practices. Boyd said she will be sharing the Board’s concerns with principals. Mayo suggested that the rule be included in the annual Parent Information Packet.

 

10.18  Adoption of the Updated Advanced Spanish, Spanish AP, and Spanish Honors Courses of Study

Treece moved, Strange seconded, and the Board voted 5-0-0 to adopt the updated and renamed Advanced Spanish, Spanish AP, and Spanish Honors courses of study pursuant to the College Board and UC guidelines. Presented as information at the June 5 meeting, this item was returned for action at this time.

 

10.19  Adoption of the Updated French IV AP and French V Honors Courses of Study

Allen moved, Treece seconded, and the Board voted 5-0-0 to adopt the updated and renamed French IV AP and French Honors courses of study pursuant to the College Board and UC guidelines. Presented as information at the June 5 meeting, this item was returned for action at this time.

 

10.20  Adoption of the Updated German IV AP Language, German V Honors, and German VI Courses of Study

Strange moved, Allen seconded, and the Board voted 5-0-0 to adopt the updated and renamed German IV AP Language, German V Honors, and German VI courses of study pursuant to the College Board and UC guidelines. Presented as information at the June 5 meeting, this item was returned for action at this time.

 

10.21  Adoption of Elementary Music Textbook

Strange moved, Mayo seconded, and the Board voted 5-0-0 to adopt Pearson/Scott Foresman-Silver Burdett Music, Kindergarten through Grade 5 as recommended by a group of elementary music teachers working with the director of curriculum and instruction. Presented as information at the June 5 meeting, this item was returned for action at this time.

 

10.22  Consider Adoption of the Policies Pertaining to Special Education in the Mt. Diablo Unified School District Special Education Local Plan Area

Treece moved, Mayo seconded, and the Board voted 5-0-0 to adopt the following policies:

BP 430                           Comprehensive Local Plan for Special Education

AR 351.2                       Transportation for Students with Disabilities

BP 5021                        Noncustodial Parents

BP 5141.24                   Special Health Services

BP 5145.6                     Parent Notifications

BP 6146.4                     Differential Graduation/Competency Standards

BP 6159                        Individualized Education Plan (IEP)

BP 6159.1                     Procedural Safeguards/Complaints

BP 6159.11                   Independent Educational Evaluations

BP 6159.2                     Nonpublic, Nonsectarian School and Agency Services for Special
                                            Education, Placement and Services

BP 6159.21                   Service to Parentally Placed Private School Students

BP 6159.3                     Appointment of Surrogate Parent for Special Education Students

BP 6161.52                   High School Exit Exam

BP 6162.55                   Testing Accommodations for Special Needs Students

BP 6164.4                     Identification of Individuals for Special Education

BP 6164.5                     Student Study Teams

Presented as information at the June 5 meeting, this item was returned for action at this time.

 

10.23  Hold Public Hearing to Consider Adoption of the Mt. Diablo Unified School District Special Education Local Plan Area Annual Service Plan and Annual Budget Plan

Eberhart opened the Public Hearing at 10:34 p.m. With no requests to speak, he closed the hearing. Allen moved, Strange seconded, and the Board voted 5-0-0 to approve the Special Education Local Plan Area (SELPA) local plan as presented and amended. Presented as information at the June 5 meeting, this item was returned for action at this time.

 

10.24  Job Description for Benefits Specialist

The job description for Benefits Specialist was created to better describe the current duties and responsibilities of the position. Presented only as information at this time, this item will be returned for action on June 26.

 

11.    ADJOURNMENT

Mayo thanked staff for working on the Consolidated Application, the Special Education Local Plan, and the Budget Plan. Eberhart thanked staff for moving Dent Center staff to Monte Gardens Elementary to accommodate summer construction at Dent and also for setting up this meeting at Mt. Diablo High as the Board Room is, consequently, not available. Eberhart adjourned the meeting at 10:38 p.m.

 

 

                                                               

Gary McHenry, Secretary