Itasca School District #10
Itasca, IL 60143
BOARD OF EDUCATION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES
December 12, 2007
I. Call to order and roll call – The meeting was called to order at 6:00 p.m. by President DiCiolla with the following ROLL CALL:
PRESENT ABSENT
Mrs. DiCiolla
Mrs. Dyra
Mrs. Hogan
Ms. Pawinski
Mr. Sprandel
Mr. Maier
Mrs. Miller
II. Closed Session – A motion was made by Mrs. DiCiolla and seconded by Mrs. Hogan that the Board of Education enter into a closed session for the purpose of discussing negotiations and personnel. The motion carried on the following ROLL CALL VOTE:
AYES NAYS
Ms. Pawinski
Mrs. Dyra
Mrs. DiCiolla
Mrs. Hogan
Mrs. Miller
Mr. Maier
Mr. Sprandel
The Board entered a closed session at 6:02 p.m.
A motion was made by Mr. Maier and seconded by Mrs. DiCiolla that the Board of Education return to open session. The motion carried on the following ROLL CALL VOTE:
AYES NAYS
Ms. Pawinski
Mrs. Dyra
Mrs. DiCiolla
Mrs. Hogan
Mrs. Miller
Mr. Maier
Mr. Sprandel
The Board returned to open session at 7:22 p.m.
President DiCiolla stated that while in closed session, the Board had discussed personnel and that no action was taken.
Also in Attendance:
Dr. Kenneth Cull, Superintendent of Schools
Dr. Marcia Tornatore, Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum & Instruction
Dr. Joanna Medwick, Principal, Elmer Franzen Intermediate School
Dr. Reinhard Nickisch, Principal, F.E. Peacock Middle School
Ms. Deb Mitsui, Recording Secretary
III. Levy Hearing –
A. Presentation of 2007 Levy – Dr. Cull stated that the 2007 levy had been presented at the November 14th Board of Education Meeting. The public has been notified of the levy and it has been on display since December 3, 2007. There have been no inquiries directed to the district office. The levy is presented at this meeting as an action item.
B. Opportunity for community input – There being no input from the audience, the hearing was adjourned at 7:25 p.m. A short recess was called until 7:30 p.m.
III. Pledge of Allegiance – Mrs. DiCiolla led all present in the Pledge of Allegiance.
IV. Welcome to Visitors – Mrs. DiCiolla welcomed everyone present.
V. Communications – Mr. Maier read communications received during the past month.
VI. Additional Agenda Items – There were none requested.
VII. Superintendent’s Report – Dr. Cull reviewed the Superintendent’s report, a copy of which is attached to these official minutes.
The Ed-Red annual dinner will be held on January 28th at 6:00 p.m. Board members should contact Deb Mitsui by the first of the year if they would like to attend.
VIII. Board Requested Reports
A. Quarterly Financial Report – Dr. Cull reviewed the Quarterly Financial Report.
B. NDSEC – Ms. Pawinski, District #10 representative to N.D.S.E.C. reviewed the Operational Board Briefs.
C. Middle School Report – Dr. Nickisch, principal of F.E. Peacock Middle School, reviewed his report. A copy of his report is attached to these official minutes.
D. Curriculum – Dr. Tornatore, Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum & Instruction, reviewed her report. A copy of her report is attached to these official minutes.
Board members asked about our English Language Learner (ELL) students who will now be required to take the ISAT assessment verses the IMAGE assessment. Our ESL instructors have begun training in preparation for this change.
E. Technology Update – Mr. Kapachinski, Director of Technology, reviewed his report, a copy of which is attached to these minutes.
Mr. Maier inquired as to how many of Franzen’s computers had been affected by the motherboard and power supply issues. Mr. Kapachinski responded that approximately 16 - 23 computers were affected but there were only 3 remaining to be serviced.
F. Backpack Discussion – Dr. Cull reported that at the November Board meeting, Mrs. Hogan had requested a discussion on backpacks. Dr. Cull provided background information that was recently discussed at an administrative meeting.
During discussion, Dr. Nickisch answered questions from the Board. Expanding time allowances for visits to lockers during the day and at the end of the day may be one of the solutions. Board members asked that staff observe the 6th grade hallway at the end of the day.
G. Superintendent Search – Mrs. Dyra reported that search firm representatives had met with the Board and presented a slate of 6 candidates. The Board will begin interviewing candidates in approximately 3 weeks.
Mrs. DiCiolla commented to the Board that she would be stepping down from the Superintendent Search Committee and recommended to the Board that she would like to appoint Ms. Debbi Pawinski to take her place. Ms. Pawinski accepted the appointment.
H. Finance Committee – Mrs. Miller reported that finance committee applications had been reviewed. The following slate of names were presented to the Board to serve on the committee:
Mr. Raymond Benson
Mr. Dan Kolar
Mr. Mark Kovach
Mrs. Lynn Sener
Mrs. Miller asked for questions or comments from the Board. There were a number of interested parties who may be interested in serving, however they were unable to commit at this time. After the first of year, and if more applicants submit a letter of intent, the Board may consider adding more members. The committee will continue to refine its guidelines for terms of office and meeting dates. Mrs. DiCiolla will inquire with the district lawyer on the status of Itasca School Board members serving on the finance committee as “ex officio” members.
Mrs. DiCiolla appointed Mr. Raymond Benson, Mr. Dan Kolar, Mr. Mark Kovach, and Mrs. Lynn Sener to serve as members on the finance committee.
I. IASA/IASB/IASBO Conference – Board members and administrators gave a brief summation on the sessions they attended at the November conference.
J. Building Inspections – Board members asked for a discussion on the topic of building inspections. Itasca’s 10-year life safety inspection is scheduled for 2010. The district’s capitol bond funds must be spent by February of 2010. The Board is considering taking a proactive approach and directed Dr. Cull to contact the district’s architect to inquire about the cost for a pre-audit life safety inspection. The district office would also be included in the inspection.
K. Freedom of Information – One request was received from the Daily Herald requesting meeting dates for 2008. Dr. Cull responded to that request.
L. Opportunity for Community Input Regarding Board Requested Reports – There were none requested.
IX. Action Items -
A. FY 2007 Audit – A motion was made by Mrs. DiCiolla and seconded by Mrs. Hogan that the Board of Education approve Action Memorandum FY08-#15; FY 2007 Audit.
The 2007 Audit was tabled at the November 14th meeting for revision. A correction has been made to reflect a reduction in the district’s land assets. Updated copies of the 2007 Audit have been distributed to Board members.
Mrs. DiCiolla referenced page 36 of the Audit Report regarding: NOTE 16 - Extraordinary Item. The paragraph explains the circumstances of Itasca School District 10’s donation of the two parcels of land to the Itasca Park District.
Mrs. DiCiolla also referenced page 28 of the Audited Financial Statement that reflects the $349,030 adjustment related to turning over/loss of 18.5% of the district’s property. This is a permanent reduction to District 10’s net assets because the district did not receive anything in return for the asset. Mrs. DiCiolla cautioned the Board to keep in mind for the future, if the Board is approached or one recommends to the Board to give an asset away, the Board might want to be sure that another asset has been received and that the district will receive a benefit.
Following a further opportunity for questions, discussion, and community input, the motion carried on the following ROLL CALL VOTE:
AYES NAYS ABSTAIN
Mrs. DiCiolla
Mrs. Hogan
Mr. Sprandel
Mr. Maier
Mrs. Dyra
Ms. Pawinski
Mrs. Miller
B. Consent Agenda - A motion was made by Mrs. Miller and seconded by Mrs. Dyra that the Board of Education approve Action Memorandum FY08-#17; The Consent Agenda.
· Approval of Minutes:
November 14, 2007 Special Closed Session 1 (Negotiations and Personnel)
November 14, 2007 Regular Meeting
November 14, 2007 Special Closed Session 2 (Negotiations and Personnel)
December 5, 2007 Special Closed Session (Negotiations and Personnel)
· Approval of Expenditure Reports, November, 2007
· Approval of the retirement of Jim Koenig effective January 5, 2008
Following a further opportunity for questions, discussion, and community input, the motion carried on the following ROLL CALL VOTE:
AYES NAYS ABSTAIN
Mr. Sprandel
Mr. Maier
Ms. Pawinski
Mrs. Hogan
Mrs. Dyra
Mrs. DiCiolla
Mrs. Miller
C. A motion was made by Mrs. DiCiolla and seconded by Ms. Pawinski that the Board of Education approve Action Memorandum FY08-#18; 2007 Levy.
Following a further opportunity for questions, discussion, and community input, the motion carried on the following ROLL CALL VOTE:
AYES NAYS ABSTAIN
Mrs. Miller
Mrs. DiCiolla
Mrs. Dyra
Ms. Pawinski
Mrs. Hogan
Mr. Sprandel
Mr. Maier
D. A motion was made by Mr. Maier and seconded by Mrs. Hogan that the Board of Education approve Action Memorandum FY08-#19; Board of Education Meeting Dates for 2008.
Following a further opportunity for questions, discussion, and community input, the motion carried on the following ROLL CALL VOTE:
AYES NAYS ABSTAIN
Mr. Maier
Ms. Pawinski
Mrs. Dyra
Mrs. Miller
Mrs. Hogan
Mr. Sprandel
Mrs. DiCiolla
E. A motion was made by Ms. Pawinski and seconded by Mr. Maier that the Board of Education approve Action Memorandum FY08-#20; The planning and budget calendar.
Following a further opportunity for questions, discussion, and community input, the motion carried on the following ROLL CALL VOTE:
AYES NAYS ABSTAIN
Mr. Sprandel
Mrs. DiCiolla
Mr. Maier
Mrs. Hogan
Mrs. Dyra
Mrs. Miller
Ms. Pawinski
F. A motion was made by Mrs. Dyra and seconded by Ms. Pawinski that the Board of Education approve Action Memorandum FY08-#21; Release of closed session minutes and destruction of tapes.
Mrs. DiCiolla made a motion to amend Action Memorandum Fy08-#21; Release of closed session minutes and destruction of tapes. Mrs. DiCiolla would like to refrain the destruction of tapes in order to confer with the district’s attorney regarding permanent files.
Following a further opportunity for questions, discussion, and community input, the amended motion, with corrections to the release of closed session minutes carried on the following ROLL CALL VOTE:
AYES NAYS ABSTAIN
Mrs. Dyra
Mr. Maier
Mr. Sprandel
Mrs. DiCiolla
Mrs. Miller
Ms. Pawinski
Mrs. Hogan
G. A motion was made by Mr. Maier and seconded by Mrs. Dyra that the Board of Education approve Action Memorandum FY08-#22; Extension of Transportation Contract with First Student.
Board members asked about fuel adjustments and how they are calculated. Dr. Cull will look into fuel costs and calculations and report back to the Board.
Following a further opportunity for questions, discussion, and community input, the motion carried on the following ROLL CALL VOTE:
AYES NAYS ABSTAIN
Mrs. Dyra
Mrs. Hogan
Mr. Sprandel
Ms. Pawinski
Mrs. Miller
Mrs. DiCiolla
Mr. Maier
H. A motion was made by Mr. Maier and seconded by Mrs. DiCiolla that the Board of Education approve Action Memorandum FY08-#23; Board of Education Policies First Reading.
Board discussion led to the following modification of policies presented:
Policy # 6:235 Instruction – Access to Electronic Networks: point number 3 – strike the word “ensure”.
Following a further opportunity for questions, discussion, and community input, the motion carried on the following ROLL CALL VOTE:
AYES NAYS ABSTAIN
Mr. Maier
Ms. Pawinski
Mrs. DiCiolla
Mrs. Miller
Mr. Sprandel
Mrs. Dyra
Mrs. Hogan
X. Board Requested Reports –
· Mrs. DiCiolla requested an update on Superintendent Goals
· Dr Cull will provide an update for delinquent fees
· Mr. Maier asked if Mrs. DiCiolla would be able to provide an update on the agreement on District #10 and St. Matthew’s parking lot
· Ms. Pawinski asked about the IASB facilitating a Board self-evaluation
XI. Adjournment – There being no further business, President DiCiolla adjourned the meeting at 9:38 p.m.
_______________________________ _____________________________
Fred Maier, Secretary Nancy DiCiolla, President
Board of Education Board of Education
BOE Action Memorandum FY08 - #15
Approval of 2007 Audit
November 14, 2007 –Tabled
December 12, 2007
The Board of Education is required to approve the prior year’s annual audit. The audit document was sent to the Board under separate cover. A representative of our audit firm, Mathieson, Moyski, Celer and Co., LLP, will provide a brief presentation and will be available for questions.
The Superintendent recommends that the Board approve the FY2007 audit as presented.
BOE Action Memorandum FY08 - #17
Consent Agenda
December 12, 2007
Included in the consent agenda:
November 14, 2007 Special Closed Session 1 (Negotiations and Personnel)
November 14, 2007 Regular Meeting
November 14, 2007 Special Closed Session 2 (Negotiations and Personnel)
December 5, 2007 Special Closed Session (Negotiations and Personnel)
- Approval of Expenditure Reports, November 2007.
- Approval of the retirement of Jim Koenig effective January 5, 2008.
The Superintendent recommends that the Board approve all items on the consent agenda.
BOE Action Memorandum FY08 - #18
Approval of the 2007 Levy
December 12, 2007
The Board of Education is required to adopt a levy before the end of the calendar year. The required estimated levy was passed at the November meeting. Prior to the regular Board of Education meeting on December 12, 2007, at 7:15 PM, we will hold a public hearing regarding the levy. The purpose of that hearing is to give the community an opportunity comment or ask questions. During the “action items” portion of the December agenda, the Board will vote on the levy presented below.
2007 Levy
|
|
2006 Ext
|
Req Inc
|
2007 Levy
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Ed
|
6,875,736.50
|
10.0%
|
7,563,310
|
|
OM
|
1,034,516.53
|
10.0%
|
1,137,968
|
|
Trans
|
326,777.63
|
10.0%
|
359,455
|
|
IMRF
|
127,359.49
|
10.0%
|
140,095
|
|
SS
|
111,160.25
|
10.0%
|
122,276
|
|
Spec Ed
|
86,023.51
|
10.0%
|
94,625
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
8,561,573.91
|
|
9,417,729
|
|
|
|
|
10.0%
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Bond
|
707,180.31
|
|
707,000
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total
|
9,268754.22
|
|
10,124,729
|
|
|
|
|
9.24%
|
The levy is in the aggregate (total number) not by funds. So we will levy $9,417,729 not counting debt (bonds) and $10,124,729 including the bonds.
The Superintendent recommends the approval of the levy on the equalized assessed value of the taxable property of the School District #10, DuPage County, Illinois for the 2007 year as presented. It is further resolved that the amounts of the levy as set forth herein above shall be certified and submitted to the County Clerk of DuPage County, Illinois, and that the President and Secretary of the Board shall certify the tax levy as required by law.
BOE Action Memorandum FY08 - #19
Board of Education Meeting Dates for 2008
December 12, 2007
The following dates are recommended meeting dates for 2008.
January 9, 2008
February 13, 2008
March 12, 2008
April 9, 2008
May 14, 2008
June 11, 2008
August 13, 2008
September 10, 2008
October 8, 2008
November 12, 2008
December 10, 2008
The Superintendent recommends that the Board approve meeting dates for 2008.
BOE Action Memorandum FY08 - #20
FY2009 Planning and Budget Calendar
December 12, 2007
March, 2007 Board of Education affirms adopts Mission Statement and Goals for FY2008.
November, 2007 Tentative levy adopted. Administrators prepare evaluations of previous year’s building goals. Results of FY07 Building Goals presented. FY08 Building Goals presented.
December, 2007 Levy is adopted. Superintendent reviews Planning and Budget Calendar with the Board of Education and begins budgeting process.
January, 2008 Superintendent reviews Planning and Budget Calendar and procedures with district administrators. Administrators review procedures with teachers. Board of Education seeks community input with PARENT GROUPS. Staff establishes building goals based on Mission Statement and Goals for FY 2007.
February, 2008 Teachers submit budget requests to principals. Superintendent reviews budget requests with principals. Board sets FY09 Board Goals. New Superintendent named to begin July 1, 2008.
March, 2008 Board of Education budget review and workshop(s).
April, 2008 Levy is adjusted following the County Clerk’s release of the assessed valuation. Board and administration continues to review budget.
May, 2008* Board adopts Tentative FY2009 Budget. Tentative FY2009 Budget on display for public review.
June, 2008* Board of Education adopts Final FY2009 Budget. Note: For this to occur, a special meeting later in June will be necessary since there are not 30 days between the May and June regular meetings.
July, 2008* FY2008 Final Budget is implemented.
* The FY2009 Final Budget need not be approved, by law, until September 30, 2009. IF the Board were interested in greater involvement by the new Superintendent, the Board could choose to push these dates into July, August and September. If the Board considers this option, recognize that there is no meeting scheduled for July, and there are not 30 days between the regular August and September meetings.
The Superintendent recommends approval of the FY2009 Planning and Budget Calendar.
BOE Action Memorandum FY08 - #21
Release of Closed Session Minutes and the Destruction of Audio Recordings
December 12, 2007
Board policy calls for review of closed session minutes each July and December to determine if they can be made public. This is a routine activity that the Board has done for years as is required by law.
The new wrinkle that started a year or so ago involves the destruction of the audio recordings of these meetings. The law requiring the taping of meetings came into effect in 2004. The law allows us to destroy audiotapes of closed sessions after 18 months have passed. Applying the 18-month window to our remaining recordings means that we can, and should, destroy the tapes of two closed sessions.
The Superintendent recommends that the written minutes of the closed session of June 13, August 8, September 12 [2], October 4, and October 10, 2007, be released and that the audiotapes of closed sessions dated April 6 and April 12, 2006, be destroyed.
BOE Action Memorandum FY08 - #22
Approval of Transportation Contract Extension
December 12, 2007
First Student (formerly Laidlaw Educational Services) has been providing contracted bus service to District 10’s students for over 20 years. Again, this year, they have offered a one-year extension to our existing contract. As a result of our long, positive relationship, they are proposing a 0% increase for regular transportation services and a 3% increase in District-requested runs (i.e. fieldtrips).
The Superintendent recommends the approval of a one-year contract extension with First Student (formerly Laidlaw) at a 0% increase in regular transportation services and a 3% increase in District-requested runs.
BOE Action Memorandum FY08 - #23
First Reading of Policies
December 12, 2007
The Board’s policy committee, Mrs. DiCiolla and Mr. Maier, met to review recommended policy changes from the Illinois Association of School Board. The following chart summarizes the policy title and action recommended. Polices follow this action memorandum.
|
|
|
|
|
2.125
|
Board Member Expenses
|
Minor Changes.
|
|
2.150
|
Committees
|
Added Finance Committee
|
|
2.170
|
Procurement of Services
|
Changed to reflect new law
|
|
4.120
|
Food Services
|
Changed to reflect new law
|
|
4.180
|
Pandemic Preparedness
|
New Policy
|
|
5.130
|
Internal Information
|
New Policy
|
|
5.180
|
Temporary Illness
|
Changes work days to school days
|
|
6.160
|
English Language Learners
|
Updates language and requirements
|
|
6.235
|
Access to Electronic Networks
|
Minor Changes.
|
|
7.130
|
Student Rights
|
Right to voluntary prayer
|
|
7.190
|
Student Discipline
|
Inhalant. Broader "umbrella" language.
|
|
7.70
|
Attendance and Truancy
|
Specifies Actions
|
|
7.90
|
Release During School Hours
|
Address Emergency closings
|
The Policy Committee recommends that the above policies be approved for first reading.
