BOARD MEETING: June 17, 2008

 

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

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

 

1.       CALL TO ORDER: President Treece called the meeting to order at 5:00 p.m. in the Board Room at the MDUSD Dent Center.

 

PUBLIC COMMENT: None

 

CLOSED SESSION: The Board adjourned to Closed Session at 5:01 p.m. in Room 6 at the Dent Center. Topics discussed included superintendent’s evaluation; five expulsions and 36 requests for readmission; existing litigation (Ruhl v. MDUSD; City of Pleasant Hill; Pleasant Hill Fourth of July Commission); anticipated litigation (one potential case); public employee discipline/dismissal/release/complaint; and negotiations.

 

Readmission

Allen moved, Mayo seconded, and the Board voted 5-0-0 to approve staff’s recommendation to readmit 5 students and to deny readmission to 25 students and admission to 3 students, none of whom completed their rehabilitation assignment.

 

2.       RECONVENE OPEN SESSION: The Board returned to Open Session in the in the Board Room at the MDUSD Dent Center at 7:34 p.m. President Treece led the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.

 

Expulsions
Student 72-08: Allen moved, Mayo seconded, and the Board voted 5-0-0 that Student 72-08 be expelled from all schools and programs of the Mt. Diablo Unified School District and that Student 72-08 may apply for readmission after January 23, 2009. It is required that Student 72-08 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 73-08: Mayo moved, Eberhart seconded, and the Board voted 5-0-0 that Student 73-08 be expelled from all schools and programs of the Mt. Diablo Unified School District and that Student 73-08 may apply for readmission after January 23, 2009. It is required that Student 73-08 enroll in the COPS program for Aggressive Offenders, receive 20 hours of counseling to address anger management and gang prevention, participate in 30 hours of community service, and demonstrate a successful school experience with 30 credits earned.

 

Student 74-08: Strange moved, Allen seconded, and the Board voted 5-0-0 that Student 74-08 be expelled from all schools and programs of the Mt. Diablo Unified School District and that Student 74-08 may apply for readmission after January 23, 2009. It is required that Student 72-08 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 75-08: Eberhart moved, Mayo seconded, and the Board voted 5-0-0 that Student 75-08 be expelled from all schools and programs of the Mt. Diablo Unified School District and that Student 75-08 may apply for readmission after January 23, 2009. It is required that Student 75-08 participate in individual counseling, community service, the District’s Drug/Alcohol Workshop, the COPS program, and show evidence of a successful school experience, prior to applying for readmission.

 

Student 76-08: Mayo moved, Eberhart seconded, and the Board voted 5-0-0 that Student 76-08 be expelled from all schools programs of the Mt. Diablo Unified School District and that Student 76-08 may apply for readmission after January 23, 2009. It is required that Student 72-08 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.

 

3.       CONSENT AGENDA

After removing Item 3.1, Minutes, for further discussion at Eberhart’s request, Mayo moved, Allen seconded, and the Board voted 5-0-0 to adopt the Consent Agenda, thereby approving the following items:

 

3.1  Minutes of the meetings of May 20 and May 27, 2008. See “Separate Action” below.

 

3.2  Certificated Personnel

3.2.1 Leaves of Absence, Resignations, Retirements, Employment

 

3.2.2 Resolution 07/08-85 Provisional Internship Permit (PIP) Request

Adopted Resolution 07/08-85, authorizing Jennifer Haney and Stacey Vautour to apply for a Provisional Internship Permit (PIP) in order to complete their assignments for the 2008-09 school year.

 

3.3  Classified Personnel

3.3.1 Leaves of Absence, Resignations, Retirements, Employment

 

3.3.2 Elimination of a Vacant Site Technology Support Technician II Position

Eliminated one vacant 2.5-hour/week, 10-month Site Technology Support Technician II position at Riverview Middle School. Fiscal Impact:  Savings of $2,874.09 to Title I funds.

 

3.4  Fiscal Transactions for May 2008

 

3.5  Resolution 07/08-82 to Authorize Year-End Intra-Budget Transfers

Adopted Resolution 07/08-82, delegating authority to the Superintendent and/or his designee to approve intra-budget transfers that may be necessary at the end of the year to permit payments of obligations incurred during the year.

 

3.6  Contract Amendment #9, Corlett Skaer and DeVoto Architects, Inc.

Approved amendment #9 in the amount of $4,000 to contract with Corlett, Skaer and DeVoto Architects, Inc. Additional work involves services to provide structural modifications required at Sequoia Elementary School. Funding Source:  Measure C

 

3.7  Award of Inspector of Record (Project Inspector) Contract

Awarded contract not to exceed $20,000 to Alisha Jensen for inspector of record (project inspector) services for the demolition and repair/replacement of structurally compromised exterior walls at College Park High School. Funding Source:  Measure C

 

3.8  Increase to Purchase Order 44589 with Interpreting and Consulting Services

Approved change order to Purchase Order 44589 due to the District’s need for additional services from educational interpreters for the deaf. The difficulty in hiring qualified interpreters has led the District to use Interpreting and Consulting Services to meet student individualized education program (IEP) requirements. Fiscal Impact: There is no impact to the General Fund. The $40,000 cost is already budgeted and approved. Funding Source:  DIS – Supplemental Operating (1218)

 

3.9  Grant Application Requests

Approved submittal of the following grant applications:

3.9.1 Pleasant Hill Community Benefit Foundation in the amount of $12,000 to continue to provide counseling services in the Pleasant Hill schools. These matching funds will support the District’s efforts in providing counseling services at Valley View, Sequoia, and Pleasant Hill middle schools; and College Park High School. There is no impact to the General Fund. Funding Source:  Pleasant Hill Community Benefit Foundation

 

3.9.2 Keller Canyon Landfill Mitigation Funds in the amount of $25,000 for expanded enrichment at the Mt. Diablo CARES After School Programs at Bel Air, Delta View, Rio Vista, Shore Acres elementary schools; and Riverview Middle School. There is no impact to the General Fund

 

3.9.3 California Department of Education for Special Education Teacher Professional Development Pilot Program in the amount of $585,000 over three years to establish and implement professional development to 30 special education teachers at 15 elementary schools in the District. There is no impact to the General Fund.

 

3.9.4 U.S. Department of Agriculture for Network for Health California Funds in the amount of $1,053,999 over two years for 15 of the Mt. Diablo CARES After School Programs. There is no impact to the General Fund.

 

3.10  Contract between Mt. Diablo Unified School District and Hatchuel Tabernick and Associates

Approved continuation of a contract for Hatchuel Tabernick and Associates to provide consultation services for the 2008-09 school year to support sustainability of the Contra Costa County After School 4 All Collaborative. There is no impact to the General Fund. The $15,500 in funding is provided by the Contra Costa County After School 4 All Collaborative.

 

3.11   Memorandum of Understanding – Steps to Respect Program

Approved a Memorandum of Understanding with Committee for Children (CFChildren) to implement Steps to Respect, a school-wide anti-bullying program, at 17 designated District elementary schools. There is no impact to the General Fund.

 

3.12   Award of Bid 1516 to Opening Technologies, Inc.

Awarded Bid 1516 in the amount of $81,285.11 to Opening Technologies, Inc. to provide the door replacement at Pleasant Hill Elementary School and Northgate High School. Funding Source:  Deferred Maintenance

 

3.13   Real Property Lease Agreement Renewals

Renewed real property lease agreements for City of Concord Parks and Recreation Department/Wren Avenue Elementary School; Dianne Adair Day Care Centers, Inc./Bancroft and Highlands elementary schools; Mt. Diablo Region YMCA/Mountain View and Strandwood elementary schools; and YWCA of Contra Costa County/Hidden Valley Elementary School. The term of these renewals will be July 1, 2008, through June 30, 2009, with an automatic renewal each year for five additional years. The principals at each of the schools as well as the Assistant Superintendent, Elementary Education, have approved the renewals. There is no impact to the General Fund. The annual rent remains at $1.00 in addition to monthly utility charges.

 

3.14   License Agreement with Omnipoint Communications

Approved a license agreement for Omnipoint Communications, a subsidiary of T-Mobile USA Inc., to transmit and receive communication signals and to install, operate and maintain related equipment at the Concord High School campus and the Pleasant Hill Education Center campus. Fiscal Impact:  One-time signing bonus for each license agreement. Monthly rent of $2,500 with 3% annual increase for each license agreement. Funds will be designated for school security equipment.

 

3.15   Contract between MDUSD and Educational Based Services for Speech Language Pathologists

Approved a $8,715 contract with Educational Based Services for a Speech Language Pathologist (SLP) to serve students during the extended school year. The inability to hire qualified SLPs has led the District to contract with a non-public agency in order to fill open positions and meet student Individualized Education Program requirements. Fiscal Impact:  $8,715  Funding Source:  Extended School Year operating budget - 1050

 

3.16   Contract between MDUSD and Communication Works

Approved a $29,925 contract with Communication Works for Speech Language Pathologists (SLPs) to serve students during the extended school year. The inability to hire qualified SLPs has led the District to contract with a non-public agency in order to fill open positions and meet student Individualized Education Program requirements. Fiscal Impact:  $29,925  Funding Source:  Extended School Year operating budget - 1050.

 

3.17   Contract between MDUSD and Speech Pathology Group

Approved a $101,175 contract with Speech Pathology Group for Speech Language Pathologists (SLPs) to serve students during the extended school year. The inability to hire qualified SLPs has led the District to contract with a non-public agency in order to fill open positions and meet student Individualized Education Program requirements. Fiscal Impact:  $101,175  Funding Source:  Extended School Year operating budget - 1050

 

3.18   Contract between MDUSD and Progressus Therapy, LLC

Approved a $18,870 contract with Progressus Therapy LLC for Speech Language Pathologists (SLPs) to serve students during the extended school year. The inability to hire qualified SLPs has led the District to contract with a non-public agency in order to fill open positions and meet student Individualized Education Program requirements. Fiscal Impact:  $18,870  Funding Source:  Extended School Year operating budget - 1050

 

3.19   Resolution 07/08-84 Authorization to Award School Contracts

Adopted Resolution 07/08-84, pursuant to California Education Code Section 17604, delegating the Board’s authority to the Superintendent and/or his designee to allow for the timely award of various bid contracts during the summer when the Board does not meet. The contracts will be returned for ratification at the August 12, 2008, Board of Education meeting. Approval of this resolution is necessary in order to proceed with contract work during the Board’s summer recess.

 

SEPARATE ACTION

3.1  Minutes of the meetings of May 20 and May 27, 2008.
Referring to his comments under Item 10.4, “Consider Approval of Budget Reductions,” on the May 27, 2008, minutes, Eberhart asked that the record more clearly document his statement that site administrators should not be away from school attending meetings during the school day. He then moved, Mayo seconded, and the Board voted 5-0-0 to approve the minutes with the requested change in the comments for Item 10.4.

 

4.       RECOGNITIONS

4.1  Volunteers Extraordinaire

McHenry explained that the District and Board began recognizing school volunteers a year ago. At this session, two long-time volunteers in the Bay Point community were honored: Debra Mason and Jim Valko. Treece presented each with a certificate of appreciation and a gift (a MDUSD wristwatch).

 


4.2  College Park High School Baseball Team – 2008 North Coast Section Champions

McHenry Introduced College Park Principal Barbara Oaks and Vice Principal Steve Nixon, who introduced Head Baseball Coach Cliff Coleman and coaches Matt Martin, Brian Battles, Kevin Smith, Trevor Barrow. On behalf of the Board, Treece presented a plaque commemorating the team’s championship. McHenry presented the team with a check for $500 in donations from Board and Council members. Nixon announced that Coleman has been elected All-East Bay Coach of the Year by the Contra Costa Times.

 

4.3  College Park High School Boys Volleyball Team – 2008 North Coast Section Champions

Nixon introduced Head Volleyball Coach Nathan Collins and Assistant Coach Jessica Moore and members of the team. On behalf of the Board, Treece presented a plaque commemorating the team’s championship. McHenry presented the team with a check for $500 in donations from Board and Council members. Team member Andrew Cruz was named All- East Bay Boys Volleyball Player of the Year.

 

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

Eberhart said it was a pleasure to take part in the Northgate and Ygnacio Valley high school graduations. He reported that he and Strange met with community members on June 7 to talk about their ideas for the future of the school district.

 

Mayo reported that she and Bylund just completed another year of visits to elementary schools. On June 4 she attended the Parent Advisory Council meeting and on June 5 the meeting of the Budget Advisory Committee and then of the Measure C Oversight Committee, where members complimented staff for completing a project ahead of time. She also attended the “Community of Schools” gathering, where staff from Glenbrook Middle and Holbrook Sun Terrace elementary celebrated the culmination of the work they did together this year and talked of plans for next. Transportation Supervisor Wayne Harris entertained with a one-man performance, “My First Parade.” She attended almost all the high school graduations, remarking that Olympic had its largest class ever at 177. She announced a June 26 rally on the state budget, where speakers will include Superintendent McHenry, and a June 28 PTA leadership training. She expressed dismay that State Assemblyman Mark DeSaulnier has had to withdraw a proposed bill that would have increased the vehicle license fee by $15.

 

Strange reported that he attended the high school graduations and spoke at the one for the Necessary Small High Schools and the Center for Independent Study. He also attended the Parent Advisory Council meeting, the breakfast for Transportation staff, and the Olympic High Service Learning awards ceremony, honoring students for performing 22,000 hours of service

 

Allen reported that he attended 9 of the 11 high school graduations, remarking that the Northgate High administrators invited all Board members and the Superintendent to help hand out the diplomas. He also attended the Woodside Elementary promotion ceremony, where he saw the same proud look from parents as he had seen at the high school graduations.

 

Treece also attended several graduations, including Mt. Diablo Adult Education’s, where she was proud and moved by students receiving diplomas and GEDs. She attended the “Community of Schools” event and could see that the Glenbrook, Holbrook, and Sun Terrace staffs are clearly proud of the work they’re doing. She said one of the facilitators, Barbara Graniter from the Alameda County Office of Education, remarked that Mt. Diablo teachers are open to ideas, knowledgeable about the transformation process, and stay focused on students. She announced the Board study session on strategic planning this Saturday, June 21, at the Dent Center. Management consultant Kathleen Robinson has volunteered to facilitate the session.

 

5.3  Issues of Concern

Eberhart asked several questions about the process being used for the Request For Quotation (RFQ) for legal services. Asked who will review the submittals, Nicoll said it is not typical for Board members to sit on the review panel, but they have on occasion. Eberhart said Strange, being an attorney, should serve on the panel as should President Treece. Nicoll also noted that it is not typical for all Council members to serve on the panel. Eberhart said the General Counsel should have the say as to which Council members would serve. McHenry said it is not typical for the Board to review all the RFQs, just those that make the cut. Eberhart said he wants to review them all. McHenry said staff will provide all the RFOs to all the Board members. McHenry pointed out that Council members have been involved in selecting legal firms, particularly for the Consent Decree. They also interviewed and selected the General Counsel, who is a member of their administrative team. All members have to work with various legal firms in the course of their duties. Strange said the General Counsel should operate a virtual law firm within the District and be in charge of all legal services. He supports the RFQ process because he believes there needs to be competition among legal service providers. He volunteered to be on selection panel.

 

6.       PUBLIC COMMENT

Ygnacio Valley High parents Mark Dillon and Tammy Nelson voiced concerns about the cancellation of an honors class and the AP Biology class at the school next year and asked the Board to take steps to restore them. Joseph Schankle, contractor, took issue with MDUSD’s bid process, saying he did not receive notification of one that was awarded today. (Treece referred the matter to staff.) Dorothy Englund, parent, voiced concern about the District’s new cell phone policy and suggested ways to reduce cell phone costs. David Cantando, Hilton Concord general manager representing local Rotary Clubs and the Contra Costa Literacy Coalition, announced that the annual Day at the Races fundraiser for literacy programs will be held on October 25. Funds are given to the Mt. Diablo Adult Literacy Program among others. (Allen said that in addition to the race, the event is a good place to buy books.) Treece said budget cuts are causing a variety of impacts in District schools. She asked McHenry to provide a report to the Board on the number of Honors and AP classes being offered next year.

 

7.       COMMUNICATIONS

7.1  Organizations

Mike Noce, MDEA president, took issue with the report on Compliance Monitoring, Intervention, and Sanctions (CMIS), which would be presented as the next agenda item. He recommended that more teachers besides himself and MDEA vice president Tom Blanks serve on the District CMIS committee and made several recommendations for changes in the plan and process. In regard to contract negotiations, he said the Board must make more budget cuts in order to provide compensation to teachers. He announced that MDEA is endorsing Gary Eberhart and Sherry Whitmarsh for school Board in the election next November.

 

8.       REPORTS/INFORMATION

8.1  Mt. Diablo Achievement Team – A Community of Schools

Special Education Director Melinda Hall described the Community of Schools project, which she called “exciting and powerful.” Her report:

 

In August 2007 Mt. Diablo was awarded the RCAT+ (Riverside County Achievement Team) grant to support three schools in their efforts to improve student achievement with a focus on students with exceptional needs in English language arts and math. Riverside County Office of Education established the achievement teams to help districts and schools in their county meet the rigorous requirements of No Child Left Behind and the Public Schools Accountability Act. The teams succeeded and the state used the model to establish the RCAT+ project. County offices and districts throughout the state use it to build collaborative teams to assist schools in improving every student’s achievement toward meeting state and local standards.

 

Upon receiving the grant, the Mt. Diablo Achievement Team was created. Its members are central office administrators from departments and programs that support the diverse needs of the students at the three schools selected to participate in the program: Glenbrook Middle and Holbrook and Sun Terrace elementary. Team members are Lisa Allphin, Julie Braun Martin, Sandy Bruketta, Katie Gaines, Helen Giacobazzi, Susan Hukkanen, Rhys Miller and Melinda Hall.

 

One of the schools, Sun Terrace, was designated as a case study school with a focus on students with exceptional needs. It has two Special Day Classes for the Counseling Enriched Program, one learning handicapped Special Day Class and a resource specialist program and learning center. The theme, “Community of Schools,” was selected to foster a strong bond between and among the three schools. The theme and a new logo emphasize their connectedness and their effort to build a strong and seamless transition for all students from the elementary schools to Glenbrook so that the focus of the school day is on learning and achievement at the highest levels. Each school selected a leadership team that includes grade-level teacher representatives, special education teachers, and administrators. The Mt. Diablo Achievement Team meets formally and informally with these leadership teams to build a professional learning community that will enhance each school’s ability to meet the needs of every one of their students and ultimately close the achievement gap for struggling students and enrich the school experience for all students. Through collaboration in the professional learning community, the Achievement Team commits to building capacity in the team and at the three sites in the areas of data-based decision making, researched-based interventions, positive behavior supports, parent involvement and a system of tiered service delivery.

 

Board comment   Treece held up a book, “Learning By Doing,” which has been given to Board members. Hall said the book explains how to develop a professional learning community. It was used by the Riverside team, so the MDUSD group is using it as a starting point. In response to Treece, Hall said the program so far is for just the three schools, but they hope to build on what staff is learning to “spread the ideas” to other schools through the District Site Liaison Teams. Treece suggested the group provide presentations to other schools in the District.

 

8.2  Update on Compliance Monitoring, Intervention, and Sanctions (CMIS) Data Analysis and Draft Plan

In order to meet the federal No Child Left Behind goal that all students will be taught by highly qualified and effective teachers, in January 2008 the District entered into a partnership with the California Department of Education (CDE) to serve as a pilot for all school districts in the state. Certificated Personnel Director Julie Braun Martin and Curriculum and Instruction Director Vivian Boyd reported that a District committee is working with Linda Nicols of CDE to develop a three-year growth plan. They’ve shared the plan’s draft with Board members. Highlights of their report:

1.       Process

          Compile Highly Qualified Teacher (HQT) data for the District

          Make a site plan

          Invest in long-term solutions as a district

          Submit correct data for CBEDS

2.       Goal: Develop a plan to ensure that all schools (high poverty and low poverty) have access to experienced, highly qualified and effective teachers. Districts must ensure that poor and minority students are not taught at higher rates than other children by inexperienced, under-qualified, and out of field teachers.

3.       Equitable Distribution of Experienced and Highly Qualified Teachers Plan

          Self-Study
Determine areas of concern around recruiting practices, policies and procedures; retaining practices, policies and procedures and other district/site level practices, policies and procedures related to equitable distribution of experienced and highly qualified teacher

          Equitable Distribution Plan – District Wide Plan

          Plan must address each area of the self-study where weaknesses were found to exist with specific actions and timelines for implementation

          Plan must demonstrate that no school with low AYP, high poverty, high minority students will have inexperienced and non-HQ teachers in percentages greater than schools with the highest percentage of experienced and HQ teachers.

4.       Equity Growth Plan 2008-2010

          All sites will have highly qualified teachers. Systematic monitoring of teacher experience  and subject matter assignment will occur.

          A work group composed of district administrators and representatives from the teachers’ association will collaborate to research the factors affecting teacher retention at high poverty sites.

          The district will provide financial assistance towards becoming certified as highly qualified using categorical funds.

          A committee will explore the possibility of offering incentives to attract teachers to high poverty schools. The district will also explore increasing total compensation for all teachers

Braun Martin thanked Silvia Esteban in the Technology and Information Services Department for the providing the necessary data to the committee.

 

Board comment   Strange says the state’s way of implementing equitable distribution of teachers is “aggravating” to him because its goals apply specifically to districts, which differ in the amount and level of their diversity, and should apply to the state as a whole. Mayo said she is still examining the draft plan and looks forward to watching it evolve. In response to Eberhart, Braun Martin said sanctions are a possibility though the goal is to meet the NCLB requirements. She believes the state will accept the District’s program if it shows growth toward compliance. The willingness of a highly qualified teacher to transfer to a school perceived to be “difficult” was raised. Eberhart referred to a comment by Noce earlier in the meeting, saying student discipline issues must be addressed. He is not convinced that positive behavior methods are always effective and would like to see a stronger emphasis on actual discipline measures.

 

9.       SUPERINTENDENT'S REPORT

McHenry thanked teachers and staff for their many accomplishments during the year and also thanked those who are participating in the summer school programs. He listed efforts the District is undertaking to attract and retain teachers, explaining that the District has offered to begin paying medical benefits for teachers in several contract proposals and now is being told that teachers prefer to have a salary increase. He announced that the District’s annual Leadership Institute, “Lead from where you are,” will be held in August. He noted that a goal of providing training in leadership to staff and parents is to share decision making in the District. Referring to the report on the equitable distribution of teachers, he said the District developed a plan eight years ago to give priority staffing and priority maintenance to the high poverty, underperforming schools. When money was available two years ago, these schools also received additional funding and class size reductions. The District Site Liaison Teams provide technical support. The Board and Administration have been working on improvements, he reported.

 

10.    BUSINESS

10.1    Appointment of High School Principal

Mayo moved, Allen seconded, and the Board voted 5-0-0 to appoint John McMorris as High School Principal, assigned to Northgate, effective July 1, 2008.

 

10.2    Appointment of Middle School Principal

Eberhart moved, Mayo seconded, and the Board voted 5-0-0 to appoint Shelly Bain as Middle School Principal, assigned to Pine Hollow, effective July 1, 2008.

 

10.3    Appointment of Elementary School Principal(s)

Strange moved, Eberhart seconded, and the Board voted 5-0-0 to appoint Michele Batesole as Elementary School Principal, assigned to Woodside, effective July 1, 2008.

 

Mayo moved, Allen seconded, and the Board voted 5-0-0 to appoint Christina Toph Boman as Elementary School Principal, assigned to El Monte, effective July 1, 2008.

 

10.4    Appointment of Interim Chief Accountant

Allen moved, Strange seconded, and the Board voted 5-0-0 to appoint Nance Juner as Chief Accountant on an interim basis, effective June 19, 2008.

 

10.5    Restoration of Allocation for Teacher Health Benefits

Eberhart moved, Strange seconded, and the Board voted 5-0-0 to restore to the 2007-08 budget the $1,882,173 that had been removed by Board action on March 4, 2008, to help balance the budget. Given the projected increased revenue from the May Revise, this amount can be restored as an ongoing expense. Funds not spent in 2007-08 will be designated for teacher health benefits in 2008-09.

 

Board comment   Strange said the Board’s action sends the message that the Board wants to provide medical benefits to teachers. Eberhart commented that the $1.8 million is only a start, that it is for the year just past. More must be made available in the 08-09 and 09-10 budgets so the Board must consider some reprioritizing of those budgets.

 

10.6    Discussion and Determination of Additional Budget Reductions

Contract negotiations with all bargaining units and associations began in Spring 2007. In Fall 2007 the Board and Administration began a process of budget reductions to fund compensation increases for employees. After several public hearings in November, the Board approved some initial budget reductions on December 11, 2007. In January 2008 the Governor declared a State of California fiscal emergency and recommended reducing in revenues for schools by $4.6 billion. Mt. Diablo had to reduce $14 million as of March 2008. By May 27 the Board had approved more than $17 million in reductions. At this time the superintendent presented several options for the Board to consider:

1.     Discuss and determine need for additional budget reductions and determine an amount to be reduced.

2.     Add other items to the list of proposed budget reductions.

3.     Hold off on doing additional budget reductions at this time.

4.     Provide direction to the Superintendent.

 

Public comment   Bob Dodson, principal of Mt. Diablo Elementary, asked the Board not to cut vice principal positions at elementary schools that have more than 700 students. MDES has more than 840 students. He described the importance of the vice principal in a large school.

 

Board comment   Eberhart stressed the need to reprioritize the budget to free up money for salary and benefits for all employees. He said the District must move towards having affordable medical benefits for teachers, that what is provided to one unit must be provided to the others. Currently the District is out of sync because it has continued to provide medical benefits to non-MDEA units while not providing them to teachers. Until contracts are settled, he said, employees will not support the parcel tax the District needs because the state budget fluctuates so dramatically. He said the Board needs to make cuts now or face a crisis in the fall. Strange agreed that further cuts are needed. In response to Mayo’s question about fall enrollment, Bylund said some schools are up, others down, with no definite numbers yet; Young noted that there seem to be more students coming to the District from private schools. Mayo said she does want to improve employee compensation, but is concerned that cuts will impact classified staff heavily. She suggested that elementary instrumental music and elementary prep be examined so see if there is a more effective, economical way to provide them. To make “reasoned choices,” she said, the budget reduction process needs to be expanded, perhaps with cuts not coming until the second and third years. She believes Board members will be hearing more parent concerns about class offerings, as were voiced earlier in the evening. Allen pointed out that the Board voted that any new money will be used for employee compensation. However, he is not willing to make cuts until more is known about the state budget. It may be necessary to make adjustments for schools such as Ygnacio Valley High so advanced classes can be offered even if fewer than 20 students enroll. He remarked that if his latest proposal is adopted, the Governor would be able to make mid-year budget cuts on several occasions during the year. Strange said if cuts are not made at the next Board meeting they will have to be made in the fall. In regard to advanced classes, he suggested that all high schools have the same bell schedules so students can attend a desired class that is offered in another school. Treece said that cutting $17 million over four months is a crisis. The impact of those reductions will not be felt until the fall, and that impact will be great. She is reluctant to make additional budget cuts until more is known about the state budget. She believes everyone should be engaged in the dialogue about the state budget with state legislators. She is not willing to cut classified positions in order to fund other units. Eberhart said it would be nice to see what the actual budget numbers are, but he doesn’t expect the state budget to be adopted until August or September. Waiting until that time means the Board would have to make cuts mid year. He said he doesn’t want to cut classified positions and would look at other areas, such as the custodial supervisors. He complained about the budget cutting process the Board has been given to use so far, saying it has not allowed the Board to set its own priorities. He said he will not support the 2008-09 budget that will be presented next week because it does not include his priority, which is to increase employee compensation. Mayo noted that no further certificated positions can be reduced until 09-10 because layoff notices cannot be issued again until March 15, 2009. Eberhart said settling the contracts has to be the Board’s highest priority.

 

Board action   Strange moved, Eberhart seconded, and the Board voted (2-3-0; Allen, Mayo, Treece, no; motion failed) to consider more budget cuts at this time.

 

Staff comment   McHenry said staff will continue to make recommendations for economies as they arise.

 

10.7    Reorganization of Maintenance, Operations, and Facilities Department

Mayo moved, Allen seconded, and voted 3-2-0 (Eberhart, Strange, no) to approve a reorganization of the Maintenance, Operations, and Facilities Department   Fiscal Impact:  Savings of $21,567  Funding Source:  General Fund

 

Board comment   Eberhart said he cannot support this proposal without seeing organization charts showing the changes. He recalled that an earlier reorganization proposal saved considerably more money. Strange said he supports cutting and redesignating positions as recommended, but questioned the need for creating any positions. Maintenance and Operations Director Pete Pedersen explained the rationale for and answered questions about the reorganization plan and its funding. In response to Mayo, Pedersen said the positions being eliminated in this proposal are among those that were designated to be eliminated in the earlier proposal. Following a lengthy discussion, the Board directed staff to bring the initial reorganization plan to the June 24 Board meeting for discussion and consideration.

 

Procedural action:  It being 11 p.m., Mayo moved, Strange seconded, and the Board voted 5-0-0 to extend the meeting beyond its required 11 p.m. adjournment time, until 12:15 a.m. at the latest.

 

10.8    Extension of Agreement between Mt. Diablo Unified School District and Contra Costa County Health Services, Mental Health Division

Strange moved, Eberhart seconded, and the Board voted 5-0-0 to extend the agreement with Contra Costa County Health Services, Mental Health Division, which will provide 5.4 Child-Family Team Facilitator/school psychologist positions for the Mt. Diablo WrapAround and Counseling Clinic. Fiscal Impact:  $720,424  There is no impact to the General Fund. Funding Source:  Contra Costa County Mental Health Medi-Cal Reimbursement

 

10.9    Extension of Agreement between Mt. Diablo Unified School District and Contra Costa County Health Services, Mental Health Division

Mayo moved, Allen seconded, and the Board voted 4-1-0 (Eberhart, no) to extend the agreement with Contra Costa County Health Services, Mental Health Division, in regard to the Mental Health Collaborative (MHC). Special Education services to students from elementary to high school are provided through the MHC by school district staff, county mental health staff, and staff of Families First, Inc., Fred Finch Youth Center and Seneca Center. Fiscal Impact:  $1,155,553  Funding Source:  County Mental Health Medi-Cal funding ($4.5 million) and Mt. Diablo Unified School District ($1,155,553; budget 3630)

 

10.10  Glenbrook Middle School Voluntary Uniform Dress Code

Strange moved, Eberhart seconded, and the Board voted 5-0-0 to allow Glenbrook Middle School to implement a voluntary uniform dress code as per Board Policy and Administrative Rule 5132.

 

10.11  Resolution 07/08-86 Specification of Election Order

Strange moved, Mayo seconded, and the Board voted 5-0-0 to adopt Resolution 07/08-86, advising the County Registrar of how the winner in the November 4, 2008, election for a seat on the Board of Education will be determined in the event of a tie vote and specifying rules for candidates’ statements. The resolution states that a tie vote will be determined “by lot” and that candidates will pay for their own statements (maximum of 300 words).

 

10.12  2008-2009 Master Contract and Individual Services Agreement (ISA) for Non Public Schools and Agencies

Allen moved, Eberhart seconded, and the Board voted 5-0-0 to approve the 2008-2009 Master Contract and Individual Services Agreement (ISA) for Non Public Schools and Agencies. The Bay Area Special Education Local Planning Area Collaborative is a group of 14 districts and Special Education Local Plan Areas (SELPA’s) that meet on an annual basis to enhance and maintain a consistent fiscal relationship with Non Public Schools (NPS) and Non Public Agencies (NPA) which serve children with special needs. There is no impact to the General Fund.

 

10.13  Declaration of Need for Fully Qualified Educators

Strange moved, Allen seconded, and the Board voted 5-0-0 to approve the annual Declaration of Need form indicating the number of teachers the District anticipates hiring under emergency permits for the 2008-2009 school year as required by the Commission on Teacher Credentialing.

 

10.14  Olympic High School Technology Center

Eberhart moved, Strange seconded, and the Board voted 5-0-0 to approve Olympic High School’s proposed design for its Technology Center. The center is focused on green technology, including energy, transportation and waste management. Fiscal Impact:  $180,000  Funding Source:  Proposition 55

 

10.15  Adoption of Transportation Technology I Course of Study

Eberhart moved, Allen seconded, and the Board voted 5-0-0 to adopt the Transportation Technology I course of study developed by a committee of high school teachers. In response to Mayo, Director of Curriculum and Instruction Vivian Boyd said the course meets the University of California’s A to G requirements. Presented as information at the June 3 meeting, this item was returned for action at this time.

 

10.16  Adoption of Transportation Technology II Course of Study

Eberhart moved, Mayo seconded, and the Board voted 5-0-0 to adopt the Transportation Technology II course of study, also developed by committee of high school teachers. Presented as information at the June 3 meeting, this item was returned for action at this time.

 

10.17  Adoption of the Earth Science I Course of Study

Strange moved, Mayo seconded, and the Board voted 5-0-0 to adopt the revised Earth Science I course of study, which meets the University of California area “G” elective requirement. The initial course of study was adopted by the Board of Education on May 23, 2000. Presented as information at the June 3 meeting, this item was returned for action at this time.

 

10.18  Amended Job Description for Fire Systems Technician

Mayo moved, Strange seconded, and the Board voted 5-0-0 to approve the revised job description for Fire Systems Technician, which now includes the appropriate Certification in Engineering Technologies from Certification I to II.

 

10.19  Update Management Job Descriptions, Titles and Ranges for Maintenance, Operations and Facilities

The following job descriptions have been updated to better describe the current duties and responsibilities:

          Change Assistant Director, Maintenance, Operations, and Facilities, to Assistant Director, Maintenance, Operations, and Facilities/Maintenance Program Manager

          Change Project Manager to Facilities and Operations Program Manager

          Change Facilities Assessment Manager to Grounds and Facilities Assessment Manager

Presented only as information at this time, this item will be returned for action at a subsequent meeting.

 

10.20  Amend and Upgrade the Job Description for Senior Grounds Leadworker

This job description has been updated to include the appropriate license for California Pest Control Applicators. Presented only as information at this time, this item will be returned for action at a subsequent meeting.

 

10.21  Create Job Description for Resource Conservation Coordinator

This job description has been developed to perform complex work implementing resource conservation programs and strategies. Presented only as information at this time, this item will be returned for action at a subsequent meeting.

 

10.22  Adoption of the Biology I Support Course of Study

A committee of secondary teachers and the Science Curriculum Specialist met to develop a course of study for Biology I Support class. This course is designed to provide additional support for the students enrolled in Biology I. Presented only as information at this time, this item will be returned for action at a subsequent meeting.

 

10.23  Board Policy 6162.5(a) – Student Assessment

This update to Board Policy 6162.4(1) identifies the type of assessment that teachers will return to students and parents for information on student progress and to use as a study tool and the ones that teachers may retain in order to ensure the integrity of the assessment. McHenry reported that the Parent Advisory Council has been discussing for several months the need for parents, students, and tutors to receive certain test results for review. He said Curriculum Specialist Sandy Bruketta convened a meeting of parents and teachers to discuss issue and come to a mutually satisfying solution, which is reflected in the revised policy. Presented only as information at this time, this item will be returned for action at a subsequent meeting.

 

10.24  Request Approval of Oak Grove Middle School’s Fourth Year Corrective Action Plan Under the School Assistance and Intervention (SAIT) Program and the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Alameda County Office of Education

Oak Grove Middle School has an additional two years to comply with its plan for corrective action under the School Assistance and Intervention (SAIT) Program. To help guide the school through the next phase, it is recommended that the external service provider be changed from West Ed to the Alameda County Office of Education. Fiscal Impact:  $20,000  Funding Source:  Categorical, Title I. Presented only as information at this time, this item will be returned for action at a subsequent meeting.

 

Public comment   Mike Noce, MDEA president, suggested that District teachers rather than  outside consultants be used to provide services in the plan. Vivian Boyd said the Memorandum of Understanding, which requires the use of “an outside entity,” developed by the California Department of Education.

 

11.    ADJOURNMENT

11.1      Study Session on Strategic Planning
McHenry requested that the Board share its expectations of staff for the study session on strategic planning that will be held this Saturday, June 21. Treece said the session is “a beginning conversation” and it would be helpful if staff from Educational Services attend to provide information as needed.

 

11.2      Budget Reduction proposal
Saying that she believes staff needs direction from the Board regarding budget reductions, Mayo moved that the Board not consider budget reductions until the state budget is approved. Eberhart called her motion out of order. The motion died for lack of a second.

 

11.3      Adjournment
Treece adjourned the meeting at 11:48 p.m.

 

 

                                                               

Gary McHenry, Secretary