I.        President DiCiolla called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. with the following ROLL CALL:

 

PRESENT                                           ABSENT

Mrs. DiCiolla                                      Mr. McCann

Mrs. Dyra

Mrs. Hogan

Ms. Pawinski

Mr. Maier

Mrs. Miller

                                                                                               

                       

            Also in attendance:

 

            Dr. Kenneth Cull, Superintendent of Schools

Ms. Debora Mitsui, Recorder

 

           

II.             Closed Session – A motion was made by Mr. Maier and seconded by Mrs. Dyra that the Board of Education enter into a closed session for the purpose of discussing personnel. The motion carried on the following VOICE VOTE: All AYES: NAYS none.

 

            The Board went into a closed session at 7:02 p.m.

 

            Mr. McCann arrived at 7:04 p.m.

 

A motion was made by Mrs. DiCiolla and seconded by Mrs. Dyra that the Board of Education return to open session. The motion carried on the following VOICE VOTE: All AYES: NAYS none.

 

The Board returned to open session at 7:33 p.m.

 

Additional Present:

 

Dr. Reinhard Nickisch, Principal, F.E. Peacock Middle School

Dr. Joanna Medwick, Principal, Elmer H. Franzen Intermediate School

            Dr. Dawn Turner, Principal, Raymond Benson Primary School

Dr. Marcia Tornatore, Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum & Instruction

Members of the staff and community

 

 

III.      Pledge of Allegiance – President DiCiolla led all present in the Pledge of Allegiance. Mrs. DiCiolla stated that while in closed session, the Board had discussed personnel and that no action was taken.

 

 

III.           Welcome to Visitors – Mrs. DiCiolla welcomed visitors to the meeting.

 

 

IV.     Communication – Mr. Maier read communications received during the past month. Wight Construction Services notified us that Mr. Jim Nagle has been appointed as their project director. A letter was received from The Itasca Park District thanking the Itasca Board of Education for their contribution for the "Play for All Park". Thank you notes were also received from Dr. Susan West and Mrs. Sharon Laughlin for their retirement dinner and gifts.

 

V.     Additional Agenda Items – Mr. McCann asked to add an action item to prohibit community input on Action Memorandum FY07 #73; Rescinding of the Nomination of Mrs. DiCiolla as President of the Board of Education.

                                               

 

VI.      Superintendent"s Report – Superintendent Cull reviewed the Superintendent"s Report, a copy of which is attached to these official minutes. The Tentative FY08 Budget is listed on this agenda and will be discussed later in this meeting. District office will begin summer work hours the week of June 6^th, 2007. Regular work hours will resume the week of August 13, 2007. The Salary Committee meetings have concluded and recommendations for a 4% parameter for non-certified staff and administration (except for the superintendent) were made. Talented and Gifted parent surveys have been mailed to TAG parents. Completed surveys are due to back to the district office by June 15^th. Thus far, twenty to twenty-five surveys have been returned.

 

Dr. Cull reviewed the quarterly financial report. Our first installment of tax levy money was received on June 1, 2007. A portion of the funds will be received in this fiscal year and some in the next year. Expenditures are outlined within the report. Expectations were high for improvement in school funding this year from the government. Unfortunately, agreements could not be reached so there will be no increased assistance from the state. Dr. Cull reviewed the equalized assessment valuation of property processes (EAV) per Mrs. DiCiolla"s request. Our district belongs to a consortium of taxing bodies that pays an attorney to monitor the County Clerk"s Office on our behalf. The district has not received a bill in some time. Dr. Cull will be in contact with the consortium attorney and keep the Board informed of the appeals. Mr. Maier asked about the intergovernmental agreements regarding boundaries for the consortium. Dr. Cull said that we share or split the costs based on our tax rates.

 

 

 

VII. Board Requested Reports

 

A.            N.D.S.E.C. – Ms. Pawinski, District #10 representative to

N.D.S.E.C., reported that at the last meeting on April 9^th, 2007 the reduction of 1 to 1 aides was discussed. Also discussed were concerns regarding the new Illinois Alternate Assessment (IAA) for students with cognitive disabilities. The new IAA testing exercises are humiliating for students, and border on abuse. Next fall, Benson Primary School will have a student who may require a service dog. Currently, data is being collected on the student"s behavior with the dog being present in the classroom during summer school. Those findings will be presented to the Individualized Education Program (IEP) team for their recommendation of including or excluding the service dog next fall for this student. Ms. Pawinski reported that Mr. Tim Akins, financial advisor to NDSEC, passed away suddenly over the weekend.

 

The next meeting is scheduled for June 18^th, 2007.

 

Mrs. DiCiolla asked for an explanation of an IAA. Dr. Cull explained that it is alternative assessment for special education students who are unable to be administered regular testing.

 

Mr. Maier asked if the district had procedures in place for allowing service dogs in the buildings. Dr. Cull commented that research that had been done in a Pennsylvania school system with procedures from start to finish noting specific protocols. The district is in the beginning stages of collecting data. There are issues that will need to be addressed.

        

B.             Peacock Middle School – Dr. Nickisch, principal of F.E. Peacock Middle School, delivered his report, a copy of which is attached to these minutes. The first part of the report addressed student discipline issues and counselor contacts for students and parents. Dr. Nickisch reported that there had been one additional suspension for the last day of school for a discipline related issue. For the August Board report, Dr. Nickisch will be providing a five-year counselor contact profile. Results of the student and parent surveys will also be made available. All but seven 8^th grade students participated in the June 5^th graduation ceremony held at Lake Park. Six of the seven students will be required to attend summer school at Lake Park in order to receive their graduation diploma from Peacock. Advanced math class students, representing each of the three grade levels participated in the annual Lake Park Math Contest placed second over all. Peacock also saw wonderful success in the athletic arena during the conference trace meet championships held on May 21^st at Lake Park.

 

Mrs. DiCiolla thanked Dr. Nickisch for sharing Peacock"s success stories. She also asked for clarification on the student issue report regarding counselor contacts. Dr. Nickisch explained that a high number of student/counselor contacts is not a necessarily the cause of a negative issue. Peacock"s students feel comfortable in bringing issues to their counselor. Mrs. Miller commented that that the ratio of parent issues is relatively low. Dr. Nickisch said the reason for low parent issues is because the counselor had mitigated the problem before parent intervention was necessary.

 

 

C.        Curriculum Report – Dr. Tornatore, Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction, reviewed her report. A copy of her report is attached to these official minutes. Dr. Tornatore gave a brief overview of District 10"s option of assessment for early entrance of children entering kindergarten. This option is available to parents per their request and at their cost. The State of Illinois guidelines indicate that children should reach the age of 5 by September 1^st before entering kindergarten. The number of parents requesting the assessment is becoming fewer and fewer. Dr. Tornatore also reviewed the process involved with staff, parents and students for identifying yearly goals, objectives, activities and timelines associated with students who have been identified to participate in the Talented and Gifted Program (TAG). The District Advisory Committee (DAC) has completed the development of the district"s Technology Plan for the 2007-2008. The committee will continue to review and revise the plan ongoing throughout next school year. This is a requirement at both the state and federal levels. A recommendation of a new spelling series- adoption, "Zaner-Bloser" is being requested for the fall of 2007 for grade levels 3-8. The series provides a listing of outstanding vocabulary words with a strong phonetic structure in which to engage the students in the learning process. Dr. Tornatore said that the staff is continually working to blend the K-2 spelling program with grades 3-8.

 

Mrs. DiCiolla asked if there were any different scenarios or alternative plans should there be any cost restraints related to the technology plan. Dr. Tornatore said that during the development of the plan, costs were addressed and that Mr. Kapachinski and Dr. Cull reviewed a variety of ways to best manage our life cycles. Dr. Cull added that the district"s plan is to treat technology expenses as a utility, with a certain amount budgeted for technology expenses. For the next two years, there will be enough to do life cycle work with no expansion. By year three, we may be able to do some enhancements.

 

Mrs. DiCiolla asked if the new spelling series adoption had any significant changes such as enhancing the vocabulary. Dr. Tornatore responded that the new series is phonetically based with many enhancements. Mrs. Dyra asked if the online enhancements would be similar to the new social studies series. Dr. Tornatore did not know. The representative did say that there were game show and worksheet type activities. The technology director will be training our staff on the software. Mrs. DiCiolla asked about student access capabilities outside of school. Dr. Tornatore said that whenever a new adoption is implemented and has access to the Internet – we make sure there is plug-ins. For students without Internet connectivity from home, the local libraries always have Itasca"s homework shelf available as well as computers with Internet access.

 

 

D.            Technology – Mr. Charles Kapachinski, Director of Technology, was unable to attend the meeting. Dr. Cull reviewed the technology report, a copy of which is attached to these official minutes. Equipment has been delivered and the lifecycle process of decommissioning and redeploying some computers is already underway. Mr. Kapachinski has met with the consultant and the details have been worked out for the new telephone systems at Benson and Franzen.

 

Mrs. Miller asked for clarification regarding air conditioning and the server room at district office. Dr. Cull said that an air conditioner needed to be installed to specifically ventilate the server room.

 

Mr. Maier asked that Mr. Kapachinski provide a detailed report with specific numbers and break down of help desk ticket issues for the August Board Meeting.

 

 

E.           Freedom of Information – Dr. Cull reported that one request had been received requesting the district"s FOIA log for the past few years. This request was from by an assistant professor at College of DuPage for a project his students are working on.

 

 

F.             Opportunity for Community Input Regarding Board Requested Reports.

 

Mrs. Megan Sheridan, 308 North Rush Street, asked if the district was seriously considering allowing a dog into the schools. Mrs. Sheridan shared her concerns with the safety of others, allergies and asthma, etc. Dr. Cull responded that the district understands the concerns of the staff, students and community.

 

 

 

VIII.   Action Items

 

A.          Consent Items – A Motion was made by Mr. Maier and seconded by Ms. Pawinski that The Board of Education approve Action Memorandum FY07-#65; Consent Agenda.

 

•      Minutes of the May 2, 2007 Special Meeting (Salary Committee)

•      Minutes of the May 9, 2007 Regular Meeting

•      Expenditure Reports for the month of May, 2007

•      Acceptance of the resignations of Carol Buelow (Peacock Media Center Aide), and Deanna Micaletti (Benson Part Time Inclusion Facilitator)

•      Approval of the Leave of Absence Request from Christina Johnson (Franzen 4^th Grade Classroom Teacher)

•      Approval of hiring of Sini Thomas – Peacock Guidance Counselor

           

           

            Following some discussion, corrections and/or deletions/additions were made on the original minutes and the motion carried on the following ROLL CALL VOTE:

 

            AYES                                                 NAYS

            Mr. McCann

            Mrs. Dyra

            Mrs. DiCiolla

            Ms. Pawinski

            Mrs. Miller

            Mr. Maier

            Mrs. Hogan

 

 

B.        A motion was made by Mrs. Miller and seconded by Mr. Maier to approve Action Memorandum FY07-#66; Hourly Rates for Educational Support Personnel.

 

Following a further opportunity for questions, discussion, and community input, the motion carried on the following ROLL CALL VOTE:

 

            AYES                                                 NAYS

            Ms. Pawinski

            Mrs. Dyra

            Mrs. DiCiolla

            Mrs. Hogan

            Mrs. Miller

            Mr. Maier

            Mr. McCann

 

 

C.        A motion was made by Mr. Maier and seconded by Ms. Pawinski to approve Action Memorandum FY07-#67; Annual Base Salaries for 2007-2008 for Salaries, Non-Teaching Employees.

 

Mrs. DiCiolla asked to amend Action Memorandum FY07 #67; Annual Base Salaries for 2007-2008 for Salaried, Non-Teaching Employees to a fixed increase of 4%. Mrs. Miller seconded the motion.

 

Mr. McCann asked Mrs. DiCiolla if she wanted each of the employees to get a 4% increase instead of an aggregate increase and added that the 4% increase had already been discussed at the salary committee meeting. Mrs. DiCiolla suggested that a different approach might be considered. She suggested the possibility of the Board"s reviewing annual evaluations. Mrs. DiCiolla said that a 4% increase would be the most fair instead of giving one more or one less. Mr. McCann asked if this amended motion would change the dollar amounts. Mr. Maier replied that the numbers will change and some employees will actually receive less and some will receive more. Mrs. Hogan inquired, currently we are giving an aggregate amount that is at the discretion of the administration – with the amended motion, and asked if it would be an even 4% for them. The question was raised if the variation on the increases had been based on job performance or their job evaluation. Mrs. DiCiolla asked Dr. Cull if all the evaluations had been done. He responded that conferences had been held, but not all documents were written. Dr. Cull stated that these salaries were his recommendations. Mr. McCann asked his fellow Board members if they would be proposing that they change the Superintendent"s recommendations. Mrs. DiCiolla replied yes.

 

Following a further opportunity for questions, discussion, and community input, the motion failed on the following ROLL CALL VOTE:

 

           AYES                                              NAYS                                     ABSTAIN

           Mrs. DiCiolla                                   Mr. McCann                           Mrs. Hogan

                                                                    Mrs. Dyra

                                                                    Ms. Pawinski

                                                                    Mrs. Miller

                                                                    Mr. Maier

                                                                                                                       

 

 

 

Following a further opportunity for questions, discussion, and community input, the motion to approve Action Memorandum FY07-#67; Annual Base Salaries for 2007-2008 for Salaries, Non-Teaching Employees carried on the following ROLL CALL VOTE:

 

            AYES                                                 NAYS

Mr. McCann

Mrs. Dyra

Mrs. DiCiolla

Ms. Pawinski

Mrs. Miller

Mr. Maier

Mrs. Hogan

 

 

Mrs. DiCiolla asked for community input:

 

Mrs. Sheridan, 308 Rush Street, Mrs. Sheridan said that she appreciated the Board"s review of the numbers and was glad that the amendment did not pass for everyone to receive a flat 4% increase. She said she felt a flat 4% increase would not give employees the motivation to do better. Mrs. Sheridan suggested that salary and personnel issues might best be discussed in closed session.

 

Mrs. Michelle Groves, 416 E. Division Street, Mrs. Groves commented that the budgeted amount for technology was not much more than the budgeted salary amount for the district technology director. She asked if there were a possibility of sharing a technology director with a neighboring district. Dr. Cull responded that the district has previously looked into that possibility.

 

 

D.        A motion was made by Mrs. DiCiolla and seconded by Mrs. Dyra to approve Action Memorandum FY07-#68; Joint Prevailing Wage.

 

Following a further opportunity for questions, discussion, and community input, the motion carried on the following VOICE VOTE: All AYES: NAYS none.

 

           

E.         A motion was made by Mr. Maier and seconded by Ms. Pawinski to approve Action Memorandum FY07-#69; Hazardous Bus Areas.

Following a further opportunity for questions, discussion, and community input, the motion carried on the following ROLL CALL VOTE:

 

            AYES                                                 NAYS

            Mr. McCann

            Mrs. Dyra

            Mrs. DiCiolla

            Ms. Pawinski

            Mrs. Miller

            Mr. Maier

            Mrs. Hogan

 

 

F.         A motion was made by Mrs. Dyra and seconded by Mrs. Hogan to approve Action Memorandum FY07-#70; Tentative Budget.

 

Dr. Cull directed the Board to the second page of the Tentative Budget highlighting minor changes from Draft 2. Dr. Cull added, if necessary, the Board may plan to meet prior to the August 8^th Board meeting in order to make slight adjustments should more information become available before the Final Budget is approved.

 

For the benefit of the audience, Dr. Cull reviewed the Budget process thus far. After several meetings, and assuming the Board approves this 3^rd Draft of the FY2008 Budget, it will be placed on display during regular business hours at the Administrative Center, 200 North Maple Street, Itasca, Illinois for at least thirty days prior to the budget hearing to be held on Wednesday, August 8^th, 2007 at 7:15 p.m. in the Village Hall, 550 West Irving Park Road, Itasca, Illinois.

 

Mr. Maier said that some of the Revenues and Expenditures by Objects totals on the summary overview (page 5) were different than that of Draft 2. Dr. Cull said that he would review those projections. He directed the Board to page one of the Draft 3 Budget stating that the revenue and expenditures listed were "hard" numbers. Mrs. DiCiolla asked that Dr. Cull e-mail the entire spreadsheet to the Board members. Mrs. Dyra also asked (in the future) that the same format be used (portrait verses landscape) for each budget draft.

 

Mrs. Miller questioned the amount of $6,000 for the server room A/C at the district office. Dr. Cull indicated expenditures would not be adjusted down as a conservative measure.

Mr. Kevin Dyra asked about the amount of money being spent on telephones. Dr. Cull suggested that Mr. Dyra contact our Technology Director for specifics. Previously the district did not have an integrated telephone system. District Office and Peacock are now on the same system and work is being completed to integrate Benson and Franzen with them.

 

Mrs. Olga Cruickshank, 410 N. Maple Street, asked about revenue and expenses related to yearbooks and gowns. Dr. Cull responded.

 

Following a further opportunity for questions, discussion, and community input, the motion carried on the following ROLL CALL VOTE:

 

 

            AYES                                                 NAYS

            Mr. Maier

            Ms. Pawinski

            Mrs. Dyra

            Mrs. Miller

            Mrs. Hogan

            Mr. McCann

            Mrs. DiCiolla

 

 

G.        A motion was made by Mrs. Dyra and seconded by Mrs. Miller to approve Action Memorandum FY07-#71; Adjustment to FY07 Budget.

 

Dr. Cull explained that the Illinois State Board of Education monitors administrative expenses of school districts. One of the ways they do this is by comparing the actual administrative costs of the school district in one year with the budged administrative costs in the next. If the difference in budgeted cost is greater than 5% over the actual cost of the prior year, the Illinois State Board of Education is now requiring an amended budget. The district"s FY07 budget in administrative cost is greater than 5% over the actual cost of the FY06 actual budget. We under-spent in FY06 making the FY07 figure look like a greater increase. We are $3,000 out of "compliance". Our auditor has recommended moving at least $3,000 of expenses out of some budget areas into others. Once we pass this motion, the amounts will be accounted for as stated in the Action Memorandum FY07 - #71 and we will file an amended budget with the State.

 

Following a further opportunity for questions, discussion, and community input, the motion carried on the following ROLL CALL VOTE:

 

            AYES                                                 NAYS

            Mrs. DiCiolla

            Mrs. Hogan

            Mr. McCann

            Mr. Maier

            Mrs. Dyra

            Ms. Pawinski

            Mrs. Miller

 

 

H.        A motion was made by Mrs. Hogan and seconded by Ms. Pawinski to approve Action Memorandum FY07-#72; Authorization to Hire Staff.

 

Mrs. DiCiolla explained that this procedure has been used in the past. The Board needs to give Dr. Cull authorization to hire personnel in order to ensure that the buildings are staffed for the fall. Mr. Maier asked if new hires would mean that the budget will need to be amended. Dr. Cull said that it might, but at this time, we are not adding staff just replacing those who have left the district. Mrs. Miller asked if a low enrollment count for a grade level would give him the authority to dismiss a teacher. Dr. Cull said that teachers are protected by certain employment laws and that he would not be able to dismiss a teacher based on low enrollment numbers. Mrs. DiCiolla asked that Dr. Cull keep the board informed of current class sizes.

 

Following a further opportunity for questions, discussion, and community input, the motion carried on the following ROLL CALL VOTE:

 

            AYES                                                 NAYS

            Mrs. Miller

            Mrs. DiCiolla

            Mrs. Dyra

            Ms. Pawinski

            Mrs. Hogan

            Mr. McCann

            Mr. Maier

 

 

 

            Due to the nature of the next Action Memorandum FY07-#73; Rescinding of the Nomination and Election of Nancy DiCiolla as President of the Board of Education, President DiCiolla turned the meeting over to Vice President Hogan.

 

            Vice President Hogan made a point of order and cited Itasca School District 10"s Board Policy # 2:60 – Board member Removal from Office which states:

           

            "If a majority of the Board determines that a board member has willfully failed to perform his or her official duties, it may request the Regional Superintendent to remove such member from office."

 

                        LEGAL REF:   105 ILCS 5/3-15.5

                        CROSS REF:    2:70

                        ADOPTED:      February 10, 1999

 

            Vice President Hogan cited Robert"s Rules of Order, "Actions That Cannot Be Rescinded or Amended, pg. 297-298.

 

•      The motions to Rescind and to Amend Something Previously Adopted are not in order under the following circumstances:

 

a)      When it has previously been moved to reconsider the vote on the main motion, and the question can be reached by calling up the motion to Reconsider.

b)     When something has been done, as a result of the vote on the main motion, that is impossible to undo. (The unexecuted part of an order, however, can be rescinded or amended.)

c)      When a resignation has been acted upon, or a person has been elected to or expelled from membership or office, and the person was present or haws been officially notified of the action. (The only way to reverse an expulsion is to follow whatever procedure is prescribed by the bylaws for admission or reinstatement. For the case of an election, see pg. 642-43 regarding removal of a person from office.)

     

 

            Vice President Hogan also cited Robert"s Rules of Order, which our Board has adopted, pg. 643 "Disciplinary Procedures:"

 

•      If, however, the bylaws provide that officers shall serve only a fixed term, such as "for two years", or if they provide that officers shall serve for _ years and until their successors are elected," an officer can be deposed from office only by following the procedures for dealing with offenses by members outside a meeting; that is, an investigating committee must be appointed, it must prefer charges, and a formal trial must be held.

 

            Itasca School District 10"s Board Policy # 2:110 – Education – Qualifications, Terms, and Duties of Board Officers states:

 

            "The School Board elects a President from its members for a 2-year term."

           

                        LEGAL REF.:  5 ILCS 120/7 and 420/4A-106.

105 ILCS 5/8-1, 5/8-2, 5/8-3, 5/8-6, 5/8-16, 5/8-17, 5/10-1, 5/10-5, 5/10-7, 5/10-8, 5/10-13, 5/10-13.1, 5/10-14, and 5/10-16.5, and 5/17-1.

                              CROSS REF.:   2:80 (Board Member Oath and Conduct), 2:210 (Organizational School Board Meeting)

ADOPTED:      February 10, 1999

                        REVISED:       May 9, 2007

 

 

            Vice President Hogan stated that she had requested a copy of the board policy manual, but was told that it is a living document that is continually updated. The most recent adopted policies are available on-line within the Itasca School District #10 website.

           

            Also cited from Robert"s Rules of Order, pg. 430 "Time at Which an Election Takes Effect:"

 

•      An election to an office becomes final immediately if the candidate is present and does not decline, or if he is absent but has consented to his candidacy.

 

            Vice President Hogan stated that the Board might be in violation of its own Board   Policy #2.60 as well as in violation of Robert"s Rules of Order.

           

            Vice President Hogan stated that the Board had not been provided any documentation citing willful behavior in order to remove President DiCiolla as School Board President.

 

Mrs. Miller said that Action Item I - Memorandum FY07 - #73; Rescinding of the Nomination and Election of Nancy DiCiolla as President of the Board of Education is in violation of school board policy. A copy of the agenda is to be provided at least 48 hours before each meeting. All of the other action items had supporting materials except Action Memorandum #73. The Board President has not been notified of any materials.

 

            A motion was made by Mr. McCann and seconded by Mr. Maier to disallow audience comments on Action Memorandum FY07 - #73; Rescinding of the Nomination and Election of Nancy DiCiolla as President of the Board of Education.

 

            Mrs. DiCiolla stated that the Board would be consistent with the past to allow the public to speak. She said that the public expects to speak and deserves it.

 

            The motion failed on the following ROLL CALL VOTE:

           

            AYES                                     NAYS                                     ABSTAIN     

            Mr. Maier                                Mrs. Dyra

            Ms. Pawinski                          Mrs. Miller

            Mr. McCann                           Mrs. Hogan

                                                            Mrs. DiCiolla

 

            Vice President Hogan asked that the Board vote to determine if the Board was in violation of its own policy.

 

            A motion was made by Mr. McCann and seconded by Mrs. DiCiolla to vote on the violation of our Board Policy # 2:60; "Board Member Removal From Office" regarding the motion to Rescind the Nomination and Election of Nancy DiCiolla as President of the Board of Education.

 

            The motion was carried on the following ROLL CALL VOTE:

 

            AYES                                     NAYS                                     ABSTAIN

            Mrs. Hogan                             Mr. McCann

            Mrs. Dyra

            Mrs. Miller

            Mrs. DiCiolla

            Ms. Pawinski

            Mr. Maier

 

           

            Vice President Hogan stated now that the Board determined it was in violation of the policy, the Board could vote to set aside the policy.

 

            Mr. McCann stated that regardless of a violation of policy or not, he felt there were irreconcilable differences between certain Board members and the Superintendent. He said that the issues were related and asked if the Board were prepared to start a superintendent search.

           

            A motion was made by James McCann and seconded by Mrs. DiCiolla to suspend its rule. The motion carried on the following ROLL CALL VOTE:

 

            AYES                         NAYS                         ABSTAIN

            Mrs. Hogan                 Ms. Pawinski              Mr. Maier

            Mrs. Dyra

            Mr. McCann

            Mrs. Miller

            Mrs. DiCiolla

           

           

            Mr. Maier requested the discussion be tabled for the opportunity to have the Illinois Association of School Boards meet and discuss the issues with the Board and its officers.

 

            A motion was made by Mr. Maier and seconded by Ms. Pawinski to table Action Memorandum FY07 - #73; Rescinding of the Nomination and Election of Nancy DiCiolla as President of the Board of Education.

 

            Mr. McCann stated that it was with his understanding that the motion could be brought up at another time.

 

            Mrs. Hogan, Mrs. Dyra, and Mrs. Miller agreed that an Illinois Association of School Boards evaluation for the future would be beneficial but that it was not necessarily pertinent to this matter.

           

            Following a further opportunity for questions, discussion, and community input, the motion was declined and the debate closed on the following ROLL CALL VOTE:

 

            AYES                                     NAYS                                     ABSTAIN

            Mr. McCann                           Mrs. Hogan

            Mr. Maier                                Mrs. Dyra

            Ms. Pawinski                          Mrs. DiCiolla

                                                            Mrs. Miller

            Mr. McCann said this was a very serious issue and should not go unaddressed. Mr. McCann said that the new board members were in charge and that the Superintendent needed someone he could work with. Mr. McCann said he was uncomfortable with the current representation. McCann stated that without getting into personality issues, something needs to be done. Mr. McCann said his earlier reference of "irreconcilable differences" were his words, not Dr. Cull"s.

 

            Mrs. Dyra commented that she had not heard from Dr. Cull that there were irreconcilable differences. She asked if he had addressed the Board individually or as a group.

 

            Dr. Cull said he had some conversations with some of the Board members. He said he had not used the term irreconcible differences however will recognize that there are some differences in style. Dr. Cull said that he respects Mrs. DiCiolla as being an articulate member of the community. He said he was uncomfortable with the proceedings at the May 30^th special meeting regarding the Play For All Park. When a Superintendent is questioned so often in such a short amount of time, which happened again this evening with his recommendations with salaries, those decisions influence his decision every year. Dr. Cull stated that he wants to be someplace where he is wanted and respected.

 

            Mrs. Dyra asked Dr. Cull what actions have been taken prior to address any problems he may have with the Board president. Dr. Cull responded that he and Mrs. DiCiolla have had a couple of conversations by phone and one face to face meeting on May 15^th after they met with the Itasca Park District Board. They had a frank discussion that day and both of them were unhappy. Other than that conversation, Dr. Cull said that he has been trying to do his job quietly and professionally to give her confidence in his abilities.

 

            Mrs. DiCiolla said that she did not think the Board"s first obligation was to the superintendent but it is to the district. She said that Board members have mandatory obligations and before being a president, she was a member. She said she is interested in the well-being of the community and seeks knowledge of any educational problems and needs within the district. Mrs. DiCiolla listed obligations, responsibilities, and duties of being a Board member. She said that she has no legal authority as an individual but abides by the majority of the decisions of the board and has every intention to uphold it to the best of her ability.

            Ms. Pawinski said the Board also has an obligation to respect each other and the community and needs to stop acting like children and do what is important for the students.

 

            Mr. Maier said that he personally feels that Dr. Cull has done a great job and has worked hard to fulfill the directives that the board has given him. He is optimistic that these differences can be resolved but is concerned that may we may lose Dr. Cull. With regard to board integrity, it has been the most uncomfortable month that he has had on the Board. He was hopeful that we could table this and work to a reconciliation. If Mrs. DiCiolla retains her presidency he hopes that the Board can work better with improved communication. He was personally taken aback by Mrs. DiCiolla"s concerns for the Play For All Park. Most of his time the past couple of weeks has been spent on this motion – and the Superintendent"s goals – and not on addressing the more important issues. He hopes the Board can retain Dr. Cull. He is looking forward to August meetings and important issues.

 

            Mr. McCann shared his concerns of the role of the Board president. He said that her attitude and methods had been demonstrated earlier with regards to salaries. Mr. McCann said that the superintendent is the chief executive and it is Dr. Cull"s responsibility to set salaries, not the Boards, and not the Board President.

 

            Vice President Hogan asked for any other Board member comments. Mrs. Miller said that this was only her second meeting as a school board member and shared her disappointment regarding the motion to rescind. Mrs. Miller spoke highly of Mrs. DiCiolla and respectfully requested that the Board not support the effort to rescind.

 

            Mrs. DiCiolla requested to comment related to items that require a roll call vote. She said that if the Board members did not do their job and uphold their responsibility it would be a dictatorship, not an elected Board. Mrs. DiCiolla also commented on Dr. Cull"s current contract and his plans for retirement in three years. Dr. Cull corrected Mrs. DiCiolla in that his contract extends to 2010 and it does not indicate retirement. Mrs. DiCiolla said she was sorry.

 

            Mrs. Hogan said that she thought seeking help from the Illinois State Board of Education was a good recommendation and is something that could be voted on at a later date. She was unaware of comments being made about the new Board being in control. She said it was her interpretation that agenda items come to the table for review and should be evaluated on the merits and through the courage of the Board members convictions whether they stand alone or not. She stated that the Board had voted in different directions in the past. She said that she respects what the administration brings forward and did not know that there was a personnel issue. It would be her recommendation to enter into closed session for such discussions. Each Board member has the right to call another Board member Out of Order. Roberts Rules Of Order is written for differences.

 

            Community Input:

            NOTE – in this "Community Input" section of the minutes, everything in "regular" font reflects the best effort at note-taking and editing by the Board"s recording Secretary. Everything in italics was added to the minutes at the direction of the Board President over the Superintendent"s objection that minutes are not intended to be a verbatim record of the meeting.

 

            Mrs. Olga Cruickshank, 410 N. Maple Street, Mrs. Cruickshank told the Board of her disappointment with the request for rescinding. She supported Mrs. DiCiolla and her commitment to the Board. provides the answer and has backbone.

 

            Mrs. Kathy Kennedy, 506 Mill Road, Mrs. Kennedy said that she was a personal friend of Mrs. DiCiolla and a resident of the district of 25 years. Mrs. Kennedy supported Mrs. DiCiolla. McCann, it is apparent from his demeanor that he is the problem.

 

            Mrs. Michelle Groves, 416 East Division Street, Mrs. Groves asked to speak on behalf of the taxpayers and children of the district. McCann during the election you were out of order. Get back to kids and the community.

 

            Mrs. Kim Leider, 5N319 Eagle Terrace, Mrs. Leider said that she understood that the public does not vote to choose the school board president. She said that a school Board member should be held accountable. She discussed Character Counts! It is her hope that the Board and Administration can regroup and move on.

 

            Mr. Munoz, 339 South Oak Street, Mr. Munoz spoke of his dissatisfaction with the situation. He said that the Board is here to function as a group and should work together to offer the best possible programs for our children.

 

            Mr. Kevin Dyra, 335 West Bloomingdale Road. Mr. Dyra said he thought Mrs. DiCiolla had acted properly and that the Board needs to deal with it and move on. When Mrs. DiCiolla does not get her way she still does her job.

 

            Mr. Tom Reynolds, South Maple Street, Mr. Reynolds said what he saw tonight is a board that does have problems. Whether or not the Board votes to reconsider or rescind, the Board needs to do something. This is a Character Counts! Community.

 

            Mr. Ron Putzell, 321 Oak Street, Mr. Putzell said that about a month ago had an opportunity to go to Lake Park High School recognition night. He was pleasantly surprised by how many students from Itasca School District 10 were in the top percentages. He said that he is very proud of the district and hopes that the Board can move forward.

 

           Mrs. Shelia Grisamore, 220 E. Walters Lane, Mrs. Grisamore spoke very highly of Mrs. DiCiolla and praised her for her work in the community and for the Board.

 

            Mr. Tom Henry, 408 Walters Lane, Mr. Henry pointed out Mrs. DiCiolla"s leadership role and her commitment to the community.

            She walked into a room of seventeen strangers, got along, and pulled off one of the largest fundraisers.

 

            Mr. Mark Kovach, 5N435 Fairway Lane, Mr. Kovach said that he ran for the school Board but was not elected. Mr. Kovach feels it is the Board"s responsibility to ask questions and expect that they will have differences of opinion. He asked that the Board set aside their differences and move forward.

 

            Mrs. Denise McCann, 706 N. Maple Street, Mrs. McCann spoke of her displeasure with the audience, which seemed to be taking sides without any facts.

 

            Mr. Nickel, 614 North Walnut, Mr. Nickel spoke in support of Mrs. DiCiolla and urged the Board not to rescind its vote. Mr. Nickel spoke: that Mrs. DiCiolla is of sound character, works 110% on School Board matters, the Franzen Challenge. He stated the motion to rescind is ridiculous. He also read a letter from his wife supporting DiCiolla.

 

           

 

            Mr. Joe DiCiolla, 724 Elm Street, Mr. DiCiolla spoke of how hard Mrs. DiCiolla works as the Board President and that she has done nothing wrong. He stressed "freedom of speech", and "if Dr. Cull leaves that is his choice."

 

            Mrs. Megan Sheridan, 308 Rush Street, Mrs. Sheridan shared her dismay with the recent situation. She wished the Board well and hoped that no one would be leaving. Sheridan stated that DiCiolla is willing to listen, is well-spoken, and articulate.

 

            Mr. Latoria, 340 South Oak, Mr. Latoria shared his experiences of once being a new Board member. He said the Board needs to work together as one and that he has complete confidence in all of them.

 

            Mr. McCann said that there seems to be some suggestion that there is a personality conflict. He said that he had no doubt that Mrs. DiCiolla is a hard worker and he has served with her on this Board for a number of years. We would be remiss if the potential loss of the superintendent were not brought to the front for discussion. We are in no position to be losing a superintendent. He said that Dr. Cull has worked hard in this community and he is not going to let him walk away without trying to improve the situation.

 

            Vice President Hogan turned the floor back to Mrs. DiCiolla. Mrs. DiCiolla thanked Mrs. Hogan for doing a tremendous job this evening. Mrs. Diciolla said that if all the Board"s talents and qualities are combined that they can be a Board that functions well for the district.

 

 

I.          A motion was made by Mr. McCann and seconded by Mr. Maier to approve Action Memorandum FY07-#73; Rescinding of the Nomination and Election of Nancy DiCiolla as President of the Board of Education.

 

Following a further opportunity for questions, discussion, and community input, the motion failed on the following ROLL CALL VOTE:

 

            AYES                                     NAYS                                     ABSTAIN

            Mr. Maier                                Mrs. DiCiolla                          Ms. Pawinski

            Mr. McCann                           Mrs. Miller     

                                                            Mrs. Dyra

                                                            Mrs. Hogan                                        

 

 

IX. Board Requested Reports – There were none at this time.

 

 

X. Adjournment – There being no further business, President DiCiolla adjourned the meeting at 9:55 p.m.