Board of Education Minutes

Janesville Board of Education Meeting

Educational Services Center

December 13, 2011

6:30 p.m.

Commissioners present:  Ardrey, Dommershausen, Feldt (arrived 7:25 p.m.), Hesselbacher, Murray, P. Severson, Sodemann and Stottler.

Commissioner absent:  D. Severson

President Sodemann called the meeting to order which was duly noticed on December 9, 2011 through posting and notification of the press in accordance with Wisconsin §19.84.

Edison Middle School student Vernon Davis led the Pledge of Allegiance. 

Safety Message.  Dr. Cargile said slips/trips/falls would be the focus of the safety message because they account for 60 percent of all accidents in December.  Last year the district had almost $100,000 in workman’s compensation claims due to slips/trips/falls.  She suggested that people take extra time at entrances to clean off shoes and boots, be observant of moisture and clean up areas of moisture, always use three points of contact when using stairways, and take your time when walking on snow or ice.  Comm. Murray relayed a personal experience when furniture got too close to his fireplace.

Recognition.  Nancy Hewes, Assistant Board Clerk, was honored upon her retirement in January.  President Sodemann read greetings from past board presidents Wyss, Wolfe, Vechinsky and DuWayne Severson.  Nancy Sonntag and Deb Kolste were present and offered their congratulations.  President Sodemann presented Ms. Hewes with a Certificate of Appreciation on behalf of the current board members.

Citizen Comments.  Ed Reich, 1240 Boynton Ct., gave a number of suggestions on preventing nighttime heat loss.  He noted that it is possible on very cold, dark nights to lose 70 percent of your body heat.  He suggested using sleeping blankets/bags, having metal siding on your residence, aluminum foil on windows and bedroom ceilings to reflect heat back, wear ceramic fiber clothing, use infrared heaters, use full spectrum lighting, and have warm milk/tea/juice at bedtime.

            Diane Mayhew, 2805 Joliet St., felt the district needed to have smaller student/teacher ratios.  She said teachers must have time to help students with special learning issues.  She noted that parents have a responsibility to help their children.  Ms. Mayhew felt parents should be required to commit a certain number of hours each year to their children’s school and education.  Community members should also help support the schools.

Student Presenters to the Board.  Karina Triller, representative of Craig High School, was not present at the meeting.

            Jamie Lilburn, Parker High School representative, said Parker collected $1,800 for the District’s Third Annual Food Drive.  The November musical production “Phantom of the Opera” has been nominated for many Tommy Awards.  Computer programming students took third place in the Milwaukee School of Engineering competition.  FFA is selling poinsettias and Student Leadership Council is selling candy grams to help students at this time of year.  Winter sports are underway.  Parker Playhouse is presenting one act plays.  Choir, band and orchestra concerts have been held.  Course selection begins this week.  Eighth grade students will be visiting Parker.  Spirit Days and the advisory door decorating contest are upcoming events.

Consider Approval of Consent Agenda.  Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. Stottler to approve:  a.  Minutes of the November 22, 2011 regular board meeting;  b.  Receive and File Fund Summary Report.  Revenues in the aggregate for November 2011 were $2,755,163 and aggregate expenditures were $9,359,572.  c.  Resignations/Retirements.  The teaching position retirements of Christine Hamele, effective November 23, 2011; and Lindsey Nebel, effective January 2, 2012.  d.  Appointments.  The teaching position appointment of Shea Belanger, effective November 21, 2011.  e.  Appointment of Debra Blazer as Assistant Board Clerk; and  f.  2012-13 Staffing Plan/Budget Timeline.  The motion carried on a 7-0 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Hesselbacher, Murray, P. Severson, Sodemann and Stottler voting in the affirmative.

Presentation of School District Financial Statements (Audit Reports), Smith & Gesteland.  Keith Pennington introduced Keith Baumgartner, partner, and John Folsom, audit manager, from Smith & Gesteland.  Mr. Baumgartner reviewed the auditors’ letter.  He noted that the new Governmental Accounting Standards Board rule 54 was used in this year’s financial statements with regard to fund balance reporting.  Mr. Baumgartner noted the actuarial-set Other Post-Employment Benefits liability the district must disclose, and the claims incurred but not yet reported under the district’s self-funded health plan.  He said the district’s records are very clean.  There is no disagreement with management on accounting principles or auditing standards.  He did comment on the school activity funds and several other items.  Mr. Folsom said the main district-wide financial statement shows the normal operations of the district.  The other financial statement shows the federal and state money received.  The district-wide statement, which lists the assets, buildings, equipment and long-term debt, shows a decrease of $900,000 in net assets from last year.  The government report, which is what is reported to the Department of Public Instruction, shows an increase in the net fund balance of $1.2 million.  The June 30, 2011 general fund balance was $28 million, which is about three months of operating expenses for the district.  Mr. Folsom said the financial statements are no longer showing special education as a separate fund.  It is now included in the general operating fund.  The OPEB liability for this year is $7 million.  The total amount of the unfunded OPEB liability is $54 million.  The district received about $12.5 million in federal aid in 2010-11.  It received $74 million in state aid.

Finance/Buildings and Grounds Committee Report.  Possible items for information or discussion only:

            a.  Tour of Edison Middle School Facilities

            b.  Safety message

            c.  Review by administration of prioritized list of outstanding committee items

            d.  Discuss proposed Energy Management/Conservation Plan

            e.  Review (new) monthly finance report

            f.  Preview of 2012-13 budget model

            g.  Future committee agenda items

Comm. Ardrey noted that the new monthly finance reports will be sent out in the board packets along with the fund summary report.  Comm. Stottler asked that in the future, the audit report be presented to the Finance/Buildings and Grounds Committee chair before being reported to the board.

Presentation, Discussion and Consider Approval of Possible Modification Regarding Teacher/Pupil Ratios at the Secondary Level.  a.  Board Policy 4221, Class Size and Staffing Allocation Guidelines (Second Reading for Board).  Dr. Sperry stated that under the current Board Policy 4221, the teacher/pupil ratios (TPR) are as follows:  1:25 for grades K-3; 1:30 for grades 4-5; and 1:30 for grades 6-12.  Administration made a recommendation to the board on November 22, 2011 that the K-3 TPR of 1:25 be maintained; the 4-5 TPR be maintained; but the 6-12 TPR be increased from 1:30 to 1:32.  He cited goals from the strategic plan for this change.  If the board approves increasing the grades 6-12 TPR, it will require a change to Board Policy 4221.  Dr. Sperry reviewed six different scenarios showing various configurations of 1:28 to 1:32 TPR for grades 4-5 and 6-8.  The charts also showed related differences in fulltime equivalency levels and estimates of costs and cost savings.  Scenario 5 is the current staffing plan.  Dr. Sperry noted that the district physically cannot put 30 or 32 students in every classroom and must make accommodations for middle school scheduling needs.

            7:25 p.m. Comm. Feldt arrived.

Administration is recommending Scenario 6 for 2012-13.  This proposal calls for a TPR of 1:30 for grades 4-5 and a TPR of 1:32 for grades 6-8.  Dr. Sperry said it is not actually possible to reduce FTE staffing by 12.7 people because 32 students cannot be accommodated in every middle school classroom.  Dr. Sperry said administration also put together three scenarios for high school grades 9-12 with TPR’s of 1:28; 1:30 and 1:32.  Administration’s recommendation for high school proposed TPR is 1:32.  Dr. Sperry said science labs are designed to accommodate 28 students.  Technology education classes in welding are set at a maximum class size of 24.  These are exceptions that will have to be made. 

            In response to Comm. Murray, Mr. Pennington said $72,000 is used if one FTE teacher needs to be added and $65,000 is used for each FTE reduction.  Comm. Stottler moved, seconded by Comm. Murray, to accept scenario 5 for elementary school grades 4-5 and middle school grades 6-8 at a TPR of 1:30 and also accept scenario 3 for high school grades 9-12 at a TPR of 1:32.  Comm. Hesselbacher expressed concern with the increase in TPR and the impact on teachers and students.  She realized this recommendation was a cost reduction measure.  Comm. Dommershausen felt the board should hold a workshop on this matter.  Dr. Schulte said administration was looking at where budget reductions could be made.  The district is facing another year of budget reductions of $8-10 million.  She felt the district has capable teachers who could handle 32 children in a classroom, but she was concerned about teachers getting burned out.  Dr. Sperry said he hoped to be standing before the board at some point in the future and recommending that the TPR be lowered.  Dr. Ehrhardt said he remembers a time in the 1990’s when the board reduced elementary TPR.  Comm. Stottler felt that if the district’s financial picture changes, administration will recommend that the TPR be lowered for the benefit of the students.

            Comm. Sodemann moved, seconded by Comm. Feldt, to request a division of the question.  The motion carried on a 6-2 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Feldt,  Hesselbacher, P. Severson and Sodemann voting in the affirmative.  Comms. Murray and Stottler voted in opposition. 

            President Sodemann stated the board would be voting to accept high school staffing scenario 3 for grades 9-12 which increases the TPR to 1:32.  The motion carried on a 5-3 vote with Comms. Feldt, Murray, P. Severson, Sodemann and Stottler voting in the affirmative.  Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen and Hesselbacher voted in opposition.

            Comm. Stottler moved, seconded by Comm. Dommershausen, to accept staffing scenario 5 to maintain elementary school grades 4-5 and middle school grades 6-8 at the current TPR of 1:30.  The motion carried on a 5-3 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Hesselbacher, Murray and Stottler voting in the affirmative.  Comms. Feldt, P. Severson and Sodemann voted in opposition.

            b.  Administrative Regulation 4221.1, High School Scheduling and Staffing Guidelines.  Comm. Feldt moved, seconded by Comm. Murray, to approve the changes as presented including setting course sections at a maximum of 32 students.  The motion carried on a 7-1 vote with Comms. Dommershausen, Feldt, Hesselbacher, Murray, P. Severson, Sodemann and Stottler voting in the affirmative.  Comm. Ardrey voted in opposition.

First Reading of Revised Board Policy 8350, School Board Committees.  Comm. Hesselbacher said this would add the Legislative Committee as a separate standing committee of the board as a whole.

First Reading of Revised Board Policy 8351, Personnel/Policy/Curriculum Committee.  Comm. Hesselbacher said the Legislative Committee would be removed from this board policy.

First Reading of New Board Policy 8353, Legislative Committee.  Comm. Hesselbacher said this board policy would reinstate the Legislative Committee as a separate standing committee of the board.  She said a chair would have to be appointed. 

            Comm. Hesselbacher said the Personnel/Policy/Legislative/Curriculum Committee would be holding an open discussion with the three area State Representatives at 10 a.m. on December 15, 2011.

Consider Approval to Cancel the Second Board of Education Meeting in December 2011.  President Sodemann explained that the board president can call a meeting, but it is not clear if he/she can cancel a meeting.  Comm. Stottler moved, seconded by Comm. Murray, to cancel the second board meeting in December 2011.  The motion carried on a 6-0-1 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Hesselbacher Murray, P. Severson, Sodemann and Stottler voting in the affirmative.  Comm. Feldt abstained from voting.  Comm. Dommershausen was out of the room.

Announcements.  Dr. Schulte said she, Dr. Sperry, Comms. Ardrey and Feldt along with Jim Degan, Manager of Food Services, attended a Taking You and Your Organization to the Next Level training in Atlanta.  She felt it was important to keep the district’s evidence-based leadership practices before the board, staff and community.  She would like the board to consider having a two minute evidence-based leadership message along with the brief safety message at each board meeting.  Dr. Schulte also felt the district needed to focus on a particular tool each quarter with the purpose of keeping those in the forefront and getting the practices hardwired.

            Comm. Ardrey said his “take away” was why are we doing what we are doing and what exactly are we doing?  What is the purpose and is it worthwhile?

            Comm. Feldt praised Quint Studer for his commitment and dedication to his home community.  He thought the district needs to embrace evidence-based leadership and adopt a mantra of no excuses.  The board must focus on the result of providing every child with the best opportunity to achieve.  He felt the Journey to Excellence was the right path for the district to be taking.

            Dr. Sperry felt data collection and analysis was hardwired.  He also thought the peer interview process is now hardwired. 

            Dr. Schulte said the Strategic Planning Committee did select a new mission, vision and logo.  They are being checked out by a patent attorney.  They will be brought to the board at the January 10, 2012 meeting.

            Dr. Schulte said Dr. Spiegel, Principal of Craig High School, is ill and would like to postpone the informal lunch hour meeting that was scheduled for 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Craig High School tomorrow.

            Dr. Schulte said the School District of Janesville Third Annual Employee “Bags of Hope” Food Supply Event is scheduled for Saturday, December 17, 2011.  Volunteers can still sign up to help.  She said the $40,000 goal was met so 350 families and 50 seniors will be provided with an assortment of groceries.  She thanked the school district and community members for their donations.

Future Board Agenda Items.  Comm. Stottler’s request that the audit report go to the Finance chair before being presented to the board.  President Sodemann requested a hard copy of the audit summary.

Closed Session.  Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. P. Severson, to reconvene in closed session at 8:30 p.m. per Wisconsin §19.85(1)(c) to review the Board’s Communication Survey relating to the Superintendent which was previously discussed at a closed session earlier in the evening.  The motion carried on an 8-0 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Feldt, Hesselbacher, Murray, P. Severson, Sodemann and Stottler voting in the affirmative.

Adjournment.  Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. Stottler, to adjourn at 9:30 p.m.  The motion carried on an 8-0 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Feldt, Hesselbacher, Murray, P. Severson, Sodemann and Stottler voting in the affirmative.

_________________________________

Nancy M. Hewes, Assistant Board Clerk

Janesville Board of Education

Janesville Board of Education Meeting

Parker High School

November 22, 2011

6:35 p.m.

Commissioners present:  Ardrey, Dommershausen, Feldt, Hesselbacher, Murray, P. Severson, Sodemann and Stottler.

Commissioner absent:  D. Severson

President Sodemann called the regular meeting to order which was duly noticed on November 18, 2011 through posting and notification of the press in accordance with Wisconsin §19.84.

Kennedy Elementary School student Ellie Roach led the Pledge of Allegiance.

Safety Message.  Yolanda Cargile, noted that for the first four months of the 2011-12 school year, Adams, Madison, Roosevelt, Van Buren, Rock River Charter School, TAGOS Leadership Academy, and the Truancy Abatement and Transitional Education Program have reported zero employee accidents.  District wide, the total number of employee accidents is down 15 percent over last school year.  Slips, trips and falls are down 33 percent over last year.  There is also a 37 percent decrease in the number of employee accidents involving a medical claim. 

Citizen Comments.  None.

Student Presenters to the Board.  Ashley Krohmer-Garcia, representing the Rock River Charter School (RRCS), said she is a student in the e-learning program at RRCS.  There have already been 16 graduates from RRCS this school year.  The first of four of parent/teacher conferences have been completed with a 94 percent attendance rate.  Students have completed WKCE testing.  Students have been involved in community volunteer projects at KANDU Industries and the Riverfront.  Students in the GED-Option 2 program have been taking their subject proficiency tests.

            Nick Taylor, representative from the Tailoring Academics to Guide our Students (TAGOS), said he attended a traditional high school, but did not do well.  He really enjoys the project-based learning environment at TAGOS.  He reported that TAGOS students have completed the WKCE testing.  Parent/teacher conferences have been held.  Students took a trip to the Yerkes Observatory and the Cleopatra exhibit at the Milwaukee Public Museum.  In the next school block, students will be visiting the State Capitol and the Madison Museum of Contemporary Art.  Nick said students will be working on their personal learning plans in January.

Consider Approval of Consent Agenda.  Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. Stottler, to:  a.  Approve and place on file the minutes of the November 8, 2011 regular board meeting;  b.  Resignations/Retirements.  Teaching position retirements of Colleen Neumann, effective June 8, 2012 (a correction from the November 8, 2011 board meeting), and Jeffrey Sorensen, effective January 23, 2012; and Sara Ofner, effective November 22, 2011;  c.  Appointments.  Teaching position of Brandon Page, effective November 11, 2011;   d.  Second reading of Board Policy 3510, Purchasing Authority;  e.  Second reading of Board Policy 3320, General Fund Balance.  The motion carried on an 8-0 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Feldt, Hesselbacher, Murray, P. Severson, Sodemann and Stottler voting in the affirmative. 

Presentation and Discussion of Possible Modification Regarding Teacher/Pupil Ratio at the Secondary Level.  Dr. Sperry noted that on April 10, 2012, the board is going to be asked to approve the 2012-13 staffing plan.  Dr. Sperry reviewed the staffing timeline with the board.  He said the staffing plan is enrollment driven.  Other district employees are not included in the staffing plan.  Under current Board Policy 4221 and Administrative Regulation 4221.1, teacher/pupil ratios by grade are 1:25 for grades K-3 and 1:30 for grades 6-12. 

            a.  Board Policy 4221, Class Size and Staffing Allocation Guidelines (First reading for Board).  Dr. Sperry recommended the addition of specific wording stating that the teacher/pupil ratio for grades 6-8 will be 1:32.  He also suggested the deletion of the first two sentences of the third paragraph.  Dr. Sperry said he anticipated these changes would result in a reduction of two full-time equivalent (FTE) elementary positions at a cost savings of $140,000.  This recommendation results in 14 “hot spots,” classrooms that are close to the teacher/pupil maximum ratio, at the elementary level.

            b.  Administrative Regulation 4221.1, High School Scheduling and Staffing Guidelines.  Dr. Sperry recommended changing the number of students from 30 to 32 for the sections on maximum enrollment for regular courses and also for closed class sections.  He said the actual FTE decreases with the proposed increase in the teacher/pupil ratio at the middle and high schools would be difficult to determine until after student subject selection.  Dr. Sperry said exceptions to the 1:32 ratio would be the square footage of the classroom, limited capacity for learning stations, and/or special area or elective classes. 

            Dr. Sperry noted that the board goals are centered on student achievement, staff satisfaction and parent satisfaction.  A goal of the strategic plan is to make the School District of Janesville a preferred provider of education so families elect to enroll their children in the Janesville public schools.  The district is also committed to effectively measuring student’s individual achievement.  Comm. Stottler registered concern regarding the increase to elementary and middle school class sizes.  Dr. Sperry said administration has talked with Dr. Parr, Janesville Education Association president, and classroom teachers and they are willing to teach with increased class sizes.  Comm. P. Severson moved, seconded by Comm. Hesselbacher, to approve the revisions to Administrative Regulation 4221.1 as recommended by administration. 

            Comm. Feldt moved, seconded by Comm. Ardrey, to postpone a decision on Administrative Regulation 4221.1 until the December 13, 2011 board meeting.  The motion to postpone carried on an 8-0 vote.  Comm. Feldt asked how option area choice affects the “hot spots” at the elementary level.  Dr. Sperry said it was hard to track intra-district and option area choices.  Over the years, the district has allowed an increasing number of such parental choices.  Comm. Ardrey said the Boundary Lines Committee might consider discussion on the elimination of option areas.  Dr. Schulte said the district was looking for budget cost savings through this recommendation, but there will be some exceptions.  Comm. Stottler asked if it would be possible to look at the FTE impact with staffing on a teacher/pupil ratio of 1:28, 1:30, and 1:32 basis for grades 6-12 using the 2011-12 enrollment numbers.  President Sodemann said what was recommended by administration was a reduction in FTE’s by increasing class sizes as indicated.  There was consensus on the part of the board to ask administration to determine and report to the board what would be required if the teacher/pupil ratio were to be raised to 1:32 and also lowered to 1:28 in grades 6-12 using 2011-12 enrollment numbers. 

Discussion and Consider Approval to Create a Chief Information Officer (CIO) Position and Eliminate the Manager of Information Technology Position.  Dr. Schulte said she was asking the board to consider  approving the addition of a newly created Chief Information Officer position and to eliminate the Manager of Information Technology position.  She felt the district needed a seasoned expert in technology that can immediately lead, communicate and work in concert with the many departments and individuals in the district.  Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. Stottler, to approve the recommendation to create a Chief Information Officer position and eliminate the Manager of Information Technology position.  Comm. Dommershausen noted that the prior Elert & Associates technology report stated that the IT department is undermanned and overstretched.  Other board members felt the district needed such a position with this skill set and stature.  Dr. Schulte stated this new position will be a director level position with all information technology responsibilities under the new CIO.  The motion carried on an 8-0 vote.

What’s Right in Education/Dashboard.  Dr. Schulte gave kudos to the Parker High School musical production “Phantom of the Opera.”  She recognized staff member Brenda Wenzel, Lincoln Elementary, for receiving the Wisconsin Health and Physical Education Teaching Honor Award.  Dr. Schulte also recognized Parker parent Diane Jacobson for receiving recognition from the Wisconsin Athletic Directors Association for her years of service.  For November, 94 percent of all Roosevelt students met all of their behavioral goals.  Wilson Elementary has continued to reduce office disciplinary referrals by using Positive Behavioral Intervention and Supports. 

            Lincoln Elementary School Presentation on Outcomes and Best Practices by Wisconsin School of Promise and Principal of the Year.  Principal Shawn Galvin, said this is the third year in a row that Lincoln has been chosen as a Wisconsin School of Promise.  He noted several things that have led to this achievement such as character education and the Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS) program.  He said this student behavior modification program played an important part.  Through their attendance program, more Lincoln students are in their classrooms and on task.  Parent involvement has increased.  Response to Interventions has also had positive results.  Teachers are working collaboratively horizontally across grade levels and also vertically to the next grade level.  Special area teachers are creating connections with core areas.  Data analysis is extremely helpful in identifying what students need and which students need assistance in order to increase achievement.  Mr. Galvin said staff and colleagues along with Leadership Development Institutes, the Leadership Evaluation Measurement tool, and evidence-based leadership training all helped him achieve the Principal of the Year Award.

Personnel/Policy/Legislative/Curriculum Committee Report.  Possible Discussion/Action Items: 

            a.  Change in Committee’s Purpose and Structure.  Chairperson Hesselbacher said committee members felt the scope of this committee was too large.  At the November 15, 2011 meeting, the committee voted to bring forward to the full board a recommendation to reinstate the legislative as a separate standing committee of the board as a whole.  The legislative function would be removed from the Personnel/Policy/Legislative/Curriculum Committee.  Comm. Feldt moved,  seconded  by  Comm.  Stottler,  to  restructure  the  Personnel/Policy/Legislative/

Curriculum Committee to remove the legislative duties and responsibilities and reinstate a standing Legislative Committee of the board as a whole.  The motion carried on an 8-0 vote.  Chairperson Hesselbacher also noted that the consensus of the committee was that they will not be reviewing all board policies and administrative regulations.  The committee will review policies and regulations brought forth by administration and will discuss new and revised policies that may require in-depth study, such as the pre-expulsion process, naming rights other than buildings and sponsorship of events or programs.  Chairperson Hesselbacher said only items needing action will be brought to the full board.  It will be assumed that other board members have read the committee packet and minutes or have attended the committee meetings.

            b.  Schedule Meeting with Legislators.  Chairperson Hesselbacher said Comm. Murray scheduled a meeting with Representatives Loudenbeck, Knilans and Wynn for December 15, 2011 at 10 a.m. at the Educational Services Center.

            c.  Current and Pending Legislative Issues.  President Sodemann suggested sharing the WASB Status of K-12 Education-Related Bills chart with the representatives.

Possible Items for Information or Discussion Only:

            d.  WI Framework for Educator Effectiveness (Kim Ehrhardt, Administration Resource).

            e.  Wisconsin Association of School Boards handbook (Karen Schulte, Administration Resource).

            f.  Future Committee Agenda Items.

            There were no questions or discussion on items d., e. and f.

Announcements.  Dr. Schulte announced that as of last Friday, almost $28,000 had been raised for the Third Annual School District of Janesville Employees “Bags of Hope” Food Supply Event.

Future Board Agenda Items.  Comm. Murray requested information on the reciprocal agreement between the School District of Janesville and the City of Janesville on such items as golf greens fees, ice time, use of the ice arena, etc.  Mr. Pennington said the business office is in the process of finalizing this contract for 2011-14.  He will have this information for the December 13, 2011 board meeting.

            Comm. Murray said he also had some questions about the girls’ hockey program.  What is the agreement?  Who administers the program?  How many students participate and from what school districts?  How much does the School District of Janesville pay to support this program?  Dr. Schulte said she would email the actual girls hockey program contract to board members.

Closed Session.  Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. Stottler, to reconvene in closed session to consider matters previously noticed at a closed session earlier in the evening.  b. § 19.85(1)(e) Discussion and consider approval to send a proposed offer to re-open the Janesville Education Association Professional Agreement, the AFSCME Local 938 Custodial/Maintenance/Food Service Unit, and the AFSCME Local 938 Secretary/Clerk/Aide Unit Collective Bargaining Agreements under the provisions of 2011 Wisconsin Act 65; and c.  § 19.85(1)(c) to review the Board’s Communication Survey relating to the Superintendent.  The motion carried on an 8-0 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Feldt, Hesselbacher, Murray, P. Severson, Sodemann and Stottler voting in the affirmative

Adjournment  Comm. Stottler moved, seconded by Comm. Hesselbacher, to adjourn at 8:44 p.m.  The motion carried on an 8-0 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Feldt, Hesselbacher, Murray, P. Severson, Sodemann and Stottler voting in the affirmative.

________________________________

Nancy M. Hewes, Assistant Board Clerk

Janesville Board of Education

Janesville Board of Education Meeting

Educational Services Center

November 8, 2011

6:30 p.m.

Commissioners present:  Ardrey, Dommershausen, Feldt, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson, and Stottler.

Commissioner absent:  Sodemann

Vice-President Murray called the meeting to order which was duly noticed on November 4, 2011 through posting and notification of the press in accordance with Wisconsin §19.84.

Kennedy Elementary School student Matthew Schroeder led the Pledge of Allegiance.

Safety Message.  Yolanda Cargile said chemicals are a major part of everyone’s life at home, work and school.  Taking proper precautions with the safe use and storage of chemicals can prevent accidents and destruction of school property.  The district Chemical Hygiene Committee has developed a comprehensive plan which outlines safety actions and standardizes laboratory procedures across the district to protect staff and students.  It also describes personal protective equipment that should be used when handling chemicals.  Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) have been developed to provide information on each chemical used in the district and what actions should be taken if a person is exposed to the chemical.  These data sheets can be found on the district Webpage.  Dr. Cargile said follow-up information will be presented on district efforts to reduce or eliminate student and/or staff accidents.       

Citizen Comments.  None

Board Recognition.  Comm. D. Severson, on behalf of the board, thanked Comm. Dommershausen for his voluntary fundraising efforts for the 4^th and 5^th grade elementary track meet.  Also recognized were Carol Tyriver and Eric Gunderson, physical education teachers.  Comm. Dommershausen and Ms. Tyriver thanked the community for their support.

Student Presenters to the Board.  Jamie Lilburn, Parker High School representative, said over 900 students enjoyed the homecoming dance.  The winter sports season has begun with boys and girls basketball, wrestling, gymnastics and boys swim.  Parker sophomores completed WKCE testing last week.  Jamie thanked the Parker PTSA for providing breakfast for the sophomores.  Upcoming events include the Key Club spaghetti dinner tonight to raise money to buy gifts for families and for other activities throughout the year, campus clean up tomorrow after school, and parent/teacher conferences on Wednesday and Thursday.  The Parker musical “Phantom of the Opera” will be presented November 17-20. 

            Karina Triller, representative of Craig High School, said WKCE testing was held last week.  The fall musical “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” enjoyed successful presentations on November 3- 5.  Parent-teacher conferences will be held on Wednesday and Thursday.  Guests from the Department of Public Instruction will be at Craig on November 18 to check on how the Safe and Supportive Schools grant is being used.  The Latino and Soul Food night is set for November 29.  Craig staff and students will be participating in the district’s “Bags of Hope” Food Drive.

Consider Approval of Consent Agenda.  Comm. Feldt moved, seconded by Comm. Stottler, to approve:  a.  Minutes of the October 25, 2011 regular board meeting;  b.  Receive and File Fund Summary Report.  Revenues in the aggregate for October 2011 were $410,833 and aggregate expenditures were $9,401,285.  c.  Resignations/Retirements.  The teaching position retirements of Lynn Langkamp, Colleen Neumann effective January 23, 2012, and Jacqueline Scherrer, effective November 7, 2011;  d.  Appointments.  Crystal Roeber, effective November 7, 2011;  e.  Commendations.  The motion carried on an 8-0 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Feldt, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson and Stottler voting in the affirmative.

Discussion and Consider Approval Allowing Administration to Re-evaluate Repurposing School District of Janesville Facilities Taking into Account the Staffing Plan, Budget Reductions and Enrollment in Accordance with the 2012-13 Budget Cycle.  Comm. Stottler said she felt it was important for the board to give administration as much direction as possible in moving forward on the 2012-13 budget cycle.  She said the board voted to accept the recommendation of the Boundary Lines Committee to not close any elementary schools for the 2012-13 school year.  With the district facing an estimated $9 million deficit for 2012-13, and with 85 percent of the budget being made up of salaries and benefits, Comm. Stottler felt the board will have to once again make a lot of cuts.  She asked the board for consensus, not action, to give direction to administration to leave all options on the table.  Comm. Stottler asked that administration re-evaluate the possibility of repurposing a school or consolidating other functions into a school.  She was asking that administration have the board’s consent to move forward with possible recommendations as they develop the staffing plan.

            Comm. D. Severson asked for a definition of repurposing.  Comm. Stottler said it could mean looking at the possibility of using empty classrooms at Franklin to avoid paying rent at other facilities or any other options that might be available or present themselves.  Comm. D. Severson clarified that Comm. Stottler was placing no restrictions on administration in putting together a plan.  It could even include closing an elementary school despite the board’s vote a month ago not to do so for 2012-13.  Comm. Stottler confirmed Comm. D. Severson’s statement.  Dr. Schulte said she has already started the 2012-13 staffing plan process with her cabinet members, including repurposing school facilities.  They have also started looking at budget reductions.  Dr. Schulte said she would be glad to provide an update to the board whenever they wanted one.

Personnel/Policy/Legislative/Curriculum Committee Report.  Discussion and Possible Action Regarding Current and Pending Legislative Issues.  Chairperson Hesselbacher said there was not a quorum present at the October 18, 2011 PPLC committee meeting.  Committee members discussed the agenda for the October 28, 2011 special committee meeting with area legislators.

Finance/Buildings and Grounds Committee Report.  a.  Chairperson Ardrey said committee members were given a tour the mechanical systems of Franklin Middle School by Mr. Leeder, Maintenance Supervisor, and Mr. Eichman, Manager of Custodians, Purchasing & Transportation.  They looked at the boiler system and the pool heating and filtration system

            b.  Safety message.  Comm. Ardrey cautioned people to be careful of their footing with the changing weather conditions whereby rain can change to ice.

            c.  Update on status of projects from 2010 that were held until 2011-12 fiscal year.  Mr. Pennington gave a brief review of the 13 items that were carried over from the 2010-11 budget year.  He said some have now been completed, some are currently in progress, and the remainder have been scheduled.  The total of the 13 projects is $505,000.

            d.  Update on Jackson Roof estimate.  Mr. Pennington said the board allocated $15,000 for an engineering study of the current status of the Jackson roof.  The study was done by Angus Young Architects at a cost of $2,500.  Mr. Pennington explained that the total R-value (thermal resistance) of the original section of the roof is 14.45.  Current code requires an R-value of 19.  Angus Young provided a proposed roofing estimate for the original section bringing it up to a total R-value of 30.89 at a cost of $450,000 – $485,000.  Mr. Leeder had informed the committee that the best time to put a roofing project out to bid is February or early March.  Mr. Pennington said if the board approves a bid, the district may replace the original section of the Jackson roof next summer if money can be found in the budget to do the project.

            e.  Update on Craig sound barrier effectiveness.  Mr. Pennington explained that a new sound barrier was constructed around the Craig air conditioning chilling unit on the northeast end of the school.  So far, his office has not heard anything from the neighboring residents who initially filed complaints about the noise when the chillers were operating.  He said the chillers were now shut off for the winter season.  Mr. Pennington said he planned to do a canvass next spring of the neighbors who filed complaints.  He said Mr. Eichman had kept the Craig neighbors informed during the construction phase of the sound barrier.  Mr. Pennington said he and others stood by neighborhood houses before and after the construction of the sound barrier and did notice a reduction in the noise level after the barrier was installed.

            Comm. P. Severson said he did not think the Finance/Buildings and Grounds Committee members decided to wait until spring to follow up with the neighbors.  Comm. P. Severson moved, seconded by Comm. Stottler, to direct administration to send a letter to the Craig High School neighborhood residents in regards to their satisfaction of the district’s construction of the sound barrier by November 18, 2011.  He asked that letters be sent to residents living on S. Harmony Drive from Ruger Avenue to Hillcrest Drive; residents living on Hillside Court from Ruger Avenue to S. Harmony Drive; and residents living on Cherokee Road from S. Harmony Drive to Seminole Road.  Comm. Stottler said she lives in that area and noted that the noise was loud for several residents who brought their complaints to the board in the fall of 2010.  The sound barrier was constructed and in place for the summer of 2011.  She felt it was a good time to do a satisfaction survey the Craig neighbors in the Hillside area.  Comm. P. Severson said he wanted to know if the Craig neighbors were satisfied with what the district did.  Comm. D. Severson raised concern about doing a survey now.  The motion carried on a 5-3 vote with Comms. Dommershausen, Hesselbacher, Murray, P. Severson and Stottler voting in the affirmative.  Comms. Ardrey, Feldt and D. Severson voted in opposition.

            f.  Capital Plan development process – Discussion of possibility of looking into geothermal or solar applications for the School District of Janesville.  Comm. Ardrey said committee members talked of presenting the capital plan in terms of more description and even the use of photographs and videos.  This would lead to a district Capital Improvement Plan.  Committee members also talked about the possibility of looking into geothermal or solar applications.  The first step is to review a study that was done when the high school additions/renovations were made in 2007.

            g.  Discussion and consider approval of revisions to Board Policy 3510 and Administrative Regulation 3510.1, Purchasing Authority.  (First reading for board.)  Mr. Pennington said language was added to the board policy to make it clear that factors other than the lowest bid may be considered when awarding a contract.  Language was deleted from the administrative regulation that is not really policy and language was added on page 3 that the items listed are in no particular order.  Comm. Ardrey said these changes were approved at the committee level.

            h.  Discussion and consider approval of revisions to Board Policy 3320, General Fund Balance.  (First reading for board.)  Mr. Pennington said language relating to the specific bond ratings was deleted.  The committee had previously approved changes to the fund categories.  Comm. Ardrey said these changes were approved at the committee level.

            i.  Preview of 2012-13 budget model.  Mr. Pennington said they will begin using a new budgeting tool and forecasting model by PMA as soon as they receive an updated version around November 15, 2011.

            j.  What’s next for Boundary Lines Committee.  Comm. Ardrey said one of the tasks that the Boundary Lines Committee was asked to do was to review elementary schools for possible closure.  They did this and recommended that no elementary schools be closed for the 2012-13 school year.  Prior to that, the committee looked at school boundaries in general.  Comm. Ardrey did not feel that changes in elementary school boundary lines would substantially make a difference because a large percentage of students at any particular elementary school are from areas outside their neighborhood attendance area.  Elementary option areas have not caused any concerns.  He said the Boundary Lines Committee did review middle school enrollments.  Marshall has approximately 900 students; Edison 700; and Franklin 500.  Committee members discussed whether these enrollments should be balanced or left as is.  Should areas in some schools be reviewed for repurposing their use?  Comm. Ardrey said if there were no further specific tasks for the Boundary Lines Committee, he would like to schedule a closing meeting and address the policy of how often the Boundary Lines Committee should meet to review district facilities.

            Comm. Feldt thought that if 40 percent of students attend schools outside of their neighborhood attendance area, should there even be boundary lines, philosophically speaking.  Or, should elementary school boundary lines be kept as a guide to parents who live in a particular neighborhood area?  Chairperson Ardrey said the consensus of the Boundary Lines Committee was to leave elementary school boundary lines in place as a guide to parents.

            Comm. Murray said the Boundary Lines Committee would call a closing meeting to decide how often they should meet in the future to review district facility use and keep the board updated.

            k.  Review outstanding items from previous Finance/Buildings and Grounds Committee meetings and prioritize.  Comm. Ardrey said he wanted to share the list of suggestions from previous meetings.  Comm. Feldt said he considered a district capital improvement plan as a high priority item.

Discussion and Consider Approval of Superintendent’s 2011-12 Leadership Evaluation Measurement (LEM) Tool.  Dr. Schulte said Dr. Pilcher from the Studer Group came and talked to the board about limiting the number of goals in a LEM to 6-8.  Dr. Schulte said last year her LEM had 10 goals.  Dr. Schulte said she worked with Dr. Pilcher and reduced her goals to 8 this year that are weighted.  The weighted goals will be the primary goals.  The remainder of the goals will be listed on the LEM, but not weighted.  Dr. Schulte reviewed her goals.  She noted changes to the WKCE goal.  The finance goal will be related to revenue generation.  The growth goal was changed to the total net enrollment of the district through the work of a new marketing team.  She also added the goal of decreasing accidents as a weighted health and safety goal.  Comm. Feldt moved, seconded by Comm. Ardrey, to approve the superintendent’s 2011-12 Leadership Evaluation Measurement (LEM) tool.  The motion carried on an 8-0 vote.

Announcements.  Dr. Schulte offered congratulations to Craig on their musical and all of the people involved.  The Third Annual School District of Janesville Employees “Bags of Hope” Food Supply Event is scheduled for December 17.  Monetary donations are requested by November 18.  Volunteers are needed for packing and distribution.  The Community Conversations in Excellence will be held November 15 at Franklin Middle School from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.  Comm. Feldt thanked Coach Miller for talking with a Boy Scout Troop.  Comm. Stottler noted that December 1 is the date on which school board candidates can start gathering signatures for their nomination papers.  The spring election is on April 3.  Dr. Cargile noted the Latino and Soul Food Night for middle/high school students and parents scheduled for November 29 from 5-8 p.m.  January 14 is the Martin Luther King, Jr. celebration at Blackhawk Technical College from 3-5 p.m.  Comm. Murray noted that Friday is Veteran’s Day.

Future Board Agenda Items (summary of Board requests).  Administration is to send a letter to Craig neighborhood residents regarding their satisfaction with the Craig sound barrier.  Comm. Ardrey will schedule a final meeting for the Boundary Lines Committee and members will determine how often it should meet in the future.  Comm. Feldt suggested that the capital improvement plan be a high priority item on the Finance/Buildings and Grounds list.

Adjournment.  Comm. D. Severson moved, seconded by Comm. Stottler, to adjourn at 7:45 p.m.  The motion carried on an 8-0 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Feldt, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson, and Stottler voting in the affirmative.

_________________________________

Nancy M. Hewes, Assistant Board Clerk

Janesville Board of Education

Janesville Board of Education Meeting

Craig High School

October 25, 2011

6:38 p.m.

Commissioners present:  Ardrey, Dommershausen, Feldt, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sodemann and Stottler.

President Sodemann called the regular meeting to order which was duly noticed on October 21, 2011 through posting and notification of the press in accordance with Wisconsin §19.84.

Adams Elementary School students Emma and Brody Lippens, Annika and Aaron Leverson, and Olivia and Ella Beige, led the Pledge of Allegiance.

Board Recognition.  President Sodemann recognized board member Lori Stottler for achieving a Level II Wisconsin Association of School Boards Award.  She has earned 200 points by attending various activities, seminars, and the State Education Convention.  Comm. Stottler said board growth and life-long learning is important to her.

Safety Message.  Mat Haeger, Manager of Health Services & Safety, said he would continue with the theme of safe material handling.  In moving heavy materials, it is better to push than to pull.  It is less strain because the large muscles of the legs are being used and the body is better aligned.  He said staff would be informed of this safety measure.

Citizen Comments.  Bill McCoy, 1326 Putnam Ave., said he wished to talk about the school tax levy.  There are a lot of homes in foreclosure.  Mr. McCoy said he is asking all citizens to declare a tax war on any tax levy imposed by the School District of Janesville, the City of Janesville and Blackhawk Technical College.  He said citizens cannot afford to pay any more taxes.  He also felt that Kennedy Elementary School should be shut down.

Student Presenters to the Board.  Kevin Alvarez, representing the Janesville Virtual Academy, said students have recently finished taking the Measures of Academic Progress (MAP) test.  He said 56 percent of the seniors scored in the top quarter and 30 percent scored in the second quarter.  This means 86 percent of the JVA students are performing above the national average on the standardized reading assessment.  In math 66 percent of the students are above the national average.  Sophomore students will be taking the WKCE tests soon.

            Michael Bishop, representative from the Janesville Academy for International Studies, said the JAIS has moved from downtown Janesville to UW-Rock County.  JAIS students helped host the Diversity Action Team of Rock County meeting.  The evening program attracted 100 community members.  World regions are the focus of JAIS students for this first semester.  Students have had the opportunity to learn from guest speakers.  Students are also involved in a country research project and will then present their findings.  Michael said the JAIS has been invited to participate in the Critical Issues Forum with 10 team from Russia, two from China and Australia and 12 from the U.S.  Students will present their research in Vienna, Austria.  JAIS students will participate in Great Texts next semester. 

Consider Approval of Consent Agenda.  Comm. P. Severson asked to have item d. removed.  Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. Feldt, to:  a.  Approve and place on file the minutes of the October 11, 2011 regular board meeting;  b.  Resignations/Retirements.  None;  c.  Appointments.  None;  e.  Approve revision in scholarship terms for Bidwell National Service Scholarship;  f.  Second reading of Board Policy 5236, Students – Dangerous Weapons;  g.  Second reading of Board Policy 4139, Personnel – Dangerous Weapons;  h.  Second reading of Board Policy 1325, Community – Dangerous Weapons;  i.  Second reading of Board Policy 3645, Tobacco Use.  The motion carried on a 9-0 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Feldt, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sodemann and Stottler voting in the affirmative.  d.  Comm. P. Severson asked if one of the students had exhausted all math courses offered by the School District of Janesville.  Mr. Huth said yes.  Comm. P. Severson moved, seconded by Comm. Feldt, to authorize payment of post-secondary Youth Options applications – 2012 spring semester.  The motion carried on a 9-0 vote.

What’s Right in Education/Dashboard.  Dr. Schulte said Wilson Elementary students had 41 office disciplinary referrals in September 2010 and have reduced that to 28 in September 2011 by using Positive Behavioral Intervention and Supports.  Over 80 percent of the third grade students passed the first unit Everyday Math test.  She said the November/December core value focus is on caring.

            Dr. Schulte said the strength of academic scores is related to Summer School programs and how they are connected to student achievement.  Steve Huth, Summer School Director, said a summary was included in the board packet.  Overall enrollment and course fees increased over the previous year. 

            Madison Elementary School Principal Veronica McMahon, said staff would be highlighting their second year Neighborhood Summer School Program and August Math Academy.  She said Madison’s summer program was designed to focus on students who had deficiencies in certain skill areas.  While the program is open to all students, select students who need extra help are encouraged to attend.  Christine Veium, academic learning coach, informed board members about the “Getting Ready for Kindergarten” and “Getting Ready for First Grade” summer programs.  There are also sessions for students leaving first and second grades and students leaving third, fourth and fifth grade.  Last year the average percent of Madison students who scored proficient or advanced in WKCE reading rose an average of 9 percent for third through fifth grade students.  Heather Sullivan, head teacher for the two-week August Math Academy, explained the use of Versa Tiles, hands-on math games using cards, and computer math games to help students in skill areas staff identified as areas of need during data analysis sessions.  Last year the average percent of Madison third through fifth grade students who scored proficient or advanced in math rose 10 percent compared with the previous year.  These summer academies help students increase their achievement levels by gaining confidence in their skills, having a more positive attitude, and counteracting the backward slide in reading and math over the summer months.  In response to Comm. Feldt, Mr. Huth said summer academies are offered at Jackson, Madison, Roosevelt and Wilson.  He is trying to grow this program across the district. 

Update, Discussion and Consider Approval of a Budget Neutral Stipend of $20,000 to Selected Information Systems Employees.  Dr. Sperry said when discussing compensation to non-represented district employees, one department that came to the forefront was Information Systems (or IT).  He thought four issues should be addressed:  The former IT manager felt a group of employees within that department should be receiving higher compensation; changes should be made in job descriptions and classifications; the departure of the IT manager meant additional responsibilities were temporarily assigned to employees within the department; and the district has not completed hiring a new IT manager, thus resulting in savings of $20,000 in salary and benefits over the past two months.  Dr. Sperry referenced the February 2009 Technology Audit and Planning Report by Elert & Associates.  Currently the department is staffed with 10 FTE positions.  The report recommended the addition of 5.5 to 8.5 FTE positions based on enrollment.  After reviewing the Elert Report, information from Robert Half Technologies and the former IT manager’s suggestions, Dr. Sperry offered the following recommendations.  Offer a one-time stipend for the 2011-12 school year to select employees who have taken on additional responsibilities in the absence of an IT manager.  When hired, allow the new IT manager to review current job responsibilities, make any needed adjustments and develop an organizational chart for 2011 and beyond.  Allow the new IT manager to work with the Administrative and Human Services department in determining appropriate compensation for any newly created position(s) within the IT department. 

            Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. P. Severson, to approve a one-time budget neutral stipend for the 2011-12 school year to select Information Systems department employees using savings from the vacant Information Systems Manager position.  Comm. Feldt asked that gaps in IT needs in hardware and software be reviewed and incorporated in the IT capital improvement plan.  Comm. Ardrey noted that many of the recommendations have been completed.  Comm. Ardrey felt an update to the Elert Report was needed listing the outstanding items.  The motion carried on an 8-1 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Feldt, Hesselbacher, Murray, P. Severson, Sodemann and Stottler voting in the affirmative.  Comm. D. Severson voted in opposition.

Resolution Authorizing the Issuance and Awarding the Sale of $2,225,000 General Obligation Refunding Bonds; Providing the Form of the Bonds; and Levying a Tax in Connection Therewith.  Mr. Pennington said at the October 14, 2011 board meeting, the board authorized staff to move forward with renegotiating two bond issues from January 2005.  These bonds had interest rates of 4 percent.  The main benefit of refinancing the bonds would be to lower the Fund 39 portion of the district’s property tax levy for the next two years.  The entire tax levy would be $1.1 million lower in 2011-12 and $1.125 lower in 2012-13 thus resulting in a lower overall tax levy increase.  Although the interest rate on the debt would decrease from 4 percent to around 2 percent, the increase in time over which the debt would be repaid would increase the total amount of interest paid by about $93,000.  Comm. Dommershausen moved, seconded by Comm. Ardrey, to approve a resolution authorizing the issuance and awarding the sale of $2,225,000 general obligation refunding bonds; providing the form of the bonds; and levying a tax in connection therewith.  The motion carried on a 9-0 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Feldt, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sodemann and Stottler voting in the affirmative.

Discussion and Consider Preliminary Approval of Tax Levy and Consider a Possible Change to the Fund 10 Balance.  Dr. Schulte called attention to operational goals written in board policy.  These include providing a high quality education to all students in the School District of Janesville and to ensure that every student has the opportunity to reach learning standards established by law and board policy.  She said the district is preparing students today for jobs that we have not even dreamed about.  It is important to ensure all students that the district have sufficient resources to deliver the best possible educational services for every student at every grade level. 

            Dr. Schulte said it was her recommendation that the board adopt the highest tax levy increase allowed under the revenue cap ($2,999,577) and use the fund balance ($2,565,452) for the remaining deficit.  Even after cutting $10.1 million from the 2011-12 budget, there still remains a $5.6 deficit.  The state has given districts the provision of raising the revenue cap higher than was originally anticipated to offset budget deficits.  The state will also allow an extra $50 per student and a match of $500,000 in 2012-13 totaling $1,000,000 only if the district raises taxes to the maximum allowable under the law by fiscal year 2012-13.  With approval of the bond refinancing, the overall tax levy is lowered and the property tax increase on the average home drops from an estimated $90 per year to about $52 per year.  The remaining deficit ($2,565,452) can be offset by up to $5.1 million of fund balance usage without having to change board policy.  Dr. Schulte cautioned that the fund balance should be used only for one-time costs.  Comm. P. Severson moved, seconded by Comm. Dommershausen, to grant preliminary approval of Dr. Schulte’s recommendation to adopt a Fund 10 tax levy increase of $2,999,577.  Comm. P. Severson felt this money will never be as valuable as it is right now.  He felt that by taxing to the maximum allowable by law this year would reduce the budget gap for 2012-13.  Comm. Murray said he was hesitant to agree on taxing to the maximum because of all the increases in other governmental entities.  He would favor maximizing use of the fund balance before raising the tax levy to the maximum.  Comm. D. Severson thought this was just another increase that would compound the tax burden on citizens.  He felt the board needed to make the hard decision to make further budget cuts.  Comm. Dommershausen felt the board should tax to the maximum allowable limit.  Comm. Stottler felt she had to keep in mind what the other taxing authorities were doing and the overall tax impact on citizens.  She could support a higher tax increase, but not the maximum.  Comm. Hesselbacher said Fund 10 balance should not be used for on-going expenses.  She said the district did not tax to the maximum for six out of the past eight years. 

            President Sodemann noted that if the use of Fund 10 balance exceeds $5.1 million, then Board Policy 3320 would have to be modified before final adoption of the school tax levy. 

            Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. Stottler, to amend the motion to grant preliminary approval to use $4 million of fund balance which will result in $1,565,029 for the Fund 10 tax levy increase.  The overall tax levy increase would be $643,000.  Comm. Feldt asked for the dollar amount of savings from the refinancing of the bonds.  Mr. Pennington said it was $1,087,091.  The amendment failed on a 3-6 vote with Comms. Murray, Sodemann and Stottler voting in the affirmative.  Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Feldt, Hesselbacher, D. Severson and P. Severson. 

            Comm. Feldt moved, seconded by Comm. Murray, amend the motion to grant preliminary approval to use $1,087,091 of Fund 10 tax levy increase which will result in using $4,477,938 of fund balance.  The overall tax levy increase would be $165,281 (.5%).  The amendment failed on a 3-6 vote with Comms. Feldt, Murray and Sodemann voting in the affirmative.  Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Hesselbacher, D. Severson, P. Severson and Stottler voted in opposition.

            The board took a five minute recess.

            Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. Stottler, to amend the motion to grant preliminary approval to use $3,565,452 of fund balance which will result in $1,999,577 of Fund 10 tax levy increase.  The overall tax levy increase would be $1,077,767 (3%).  The amendment failed on a 4-5 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Murray, Sodemann and Stottler voting in the affirmative.  Comms. Dommershausen, Feldt, Hesselbacher, D. Severson and P. Severson voted in opposition.

            Comm. D. Severson moved, seconded by Comm. Feldt, to amend the motion to grant preliminary approval to use $921,810 of Fund 10 tax levy increase.  The overall tax levy increase would be zero.  The amendment failed on a 3-6 vote with Comms. Feldt, D. Severson and Sodemann voting in the affirmative.  Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Hesselbacher, Murray, P. Severson and Stottler.

            The original motion to grant preliminary approval of Dr. Schulte’s recommendation to adopt a Fund 10 tax levy increase of $2,999,577 failed on a 3-6 vote with Comms. Dommershausen, Hesselbacher and P. Severson voting in the affirmative.  Comms. Ardrey, Feldt, Murray, D. Severson, Sodemann and Stottler voted in opposition.

            Comm. Dommershausen moved, seconded by Comm. Murray, to grant preliminary approval to use $1,750,000 of Fund 10 tax levy increase and the remaining amount from the fund balance.  The overall tax levy increase would be $828,190 (2.3%).  The motion failed on a 4-5 vote with Comms. Dommershausen, Murray, Sodemann and Stottler voting in the affirmative.  Comms. Ardrey, Feldt, Hesselbacher, D. Severson and P. Severson.

            Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. Stottler, to grant preliminary approval to use $1,999,576 of Fund 10 tax levy increase and $3,565,453 of fund balance.  The overall tax levy increase would be $1,077,766 (3%).  The motion failed on a 4-5 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Murray and Stottler voting in the affirmative.  Comms. Feldt, Hesselbacher, D. Severson, P. Severson and Sodemann voted in opposition.

            Comm. D. Severson moved, seconded by Comm. Feldt, to grant preliminary approval to use $1,010,000 of Fund 10 tax levy increase.  The overall tax levy increase would be $88,190 (.25%).  The motion failed on a 3-6 vote with Comms. Feldt, D. Severson and Sodemann voting in the affirmative.  Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Hesselbacher, Murray, P. Severson and Stottler.

            Comm. Hesselbacher moved, seconded by Comm. Dommershausen, to grant preliminary approval to use $2,565,029 of Fund 10 tax levy increase and $3,000,000 of fund balance.  The overall tax levy increase would be $1,643,219 (4.58%). 

            Comm. Stottler moved, seconded by Comm. Ardrey, to amend the motion to grant preliminary approval to use $2,177,534 of Fund 10 tax levy increase.  The overall tax levy increase would be $1,255,724 (3.5%).  The amendment carried on a vote of 5-4 with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Murray, Sodemann and Stottler voting in the affirmative.  Comms. Feldt, Hesselbacher, D. Severson, P. Severson and voted in opposition. 

            Comm. Sodemann moved to amend the motion to grant preliminary approval to use $1,677,534 of Fund 10 tax levy increase for an overall tax levy increase of $755,724 (2.11%).  The amendment died for lack of a second.

            The main motion, as amended, reads to grant preliminary approval to use $2,177,534 of Fund 10 tax levy increase.  The overall tax levy increase would be $1,255,724 (3.5%).  The motion failed on a 3-6 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Murray and Stottler voting in the affirmative.  Comms. Dommershausen, Feldt, Hesselbacher, D. Severson, P. Severson and Sodemann voted in opposition.

            Comm. Feldt moved, seconded by Comm. Sodemann, to grant preliminary approval to use $1,280,588 of Fund 10 tax levy increase.  The overall tax levy increase would be $358,778 (1%).  The motion failed on a 2-7 vote with Comms. Feldt and Sodemann voting in the affirmative.  Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson and Stottler voting in opposition.

            Comm. Sodemann moved, seconded by Comm. Murray, to grant preliminary approval to use $1,639,369 of Fund 10 tax levy increase and $3,925,660 of fund balance.  The overall tax levy increase would be $717,559 (2%).  The motion failed on a 4-5 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Feldt, Murray and Sodemann voting in the affirmative.  Comms. Dommershausen, Hesselbacher, D. Severson, P. Severson and Stottler voted in opposition.

            Comm. Stottler moved, seconded by Comm. Murray, to grant preliminary approval to use $1,908,452 of Fund 10 tax levy increase.  The overall tax levy increase would be $986,642 (2.75%).  The motion failed on a 4-5 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Murray, and Stottler voting in the affirmative.  Comms. Feldt, Hesselbacher, D. Severson, P. Severson and Sodemann voting in opposition.

            President Sodemann called a five minute recess.

            Comm. Stottler moved, seconded by Comm. Murray, to grant preliminary approval to use $1,960,474 of Fund 10 tax levy increase and $3,604,555 of fund balance.  The overall tax levy increase would be $1,038,664 (2.895%).  The motion failed on a 4-5 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Murray and Stottler voting in the affirmative.  Comms. Feldt, Hesselbacher, D. Severson, P. Severson and Sodemann voted in opposition.

            Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. Sodemann, to grant preliminary approval to use $1,818,753 of the Fund 10 tax levy increase.  The overall tax levy increase would be $896,943 (2.5%).  The motion carried on a 5-4 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Murray, Stottler and Sodemann voting in the affirmative.  Comms. Feldt, Hesselbacher, D. Severson and P. Severson voted in opposition.

Discussion and Consider Approval of Possible Modifications to Board Policy 3320, General Fund Balance.  The preceding motion fell within the guidelines of this board policy so no modification was necessary.

Consider Adoption of the School Tax Levy.  Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. Ardrey, to adopt the 2011-12 school tax levy in the amount of $36,774,828 and to specify $7,863,548 of that amount to be levied as a direct irrepealable tax for the sole purpose of paying the principal and interest on the district’s long term obligations.  The motion carried on a 5-4 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Murray, Sodemann and Stottler voting in the affirmative.  Comms. Feldt, Hesselbacher, D. Severson and P. Severson voted in opposition.

Final Discussion and Consider Adoption of the 2011-12 School District Budget.  Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. Stottler, to adopt the 2011-12 school district budget. 

            Comm. Sodemann moved, seconded by Comm. Stottler, to amend the motion to approve the assignment of $3,746,276 from the fund balance usage.  The amendment carried on a 7-2 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Feldt, Hesselbacher, Murray, Sodemann and Stottler voting in the affirmative.  Comms. D. Severson and P. Severson voted in opposition.

            Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. Stottler, to adopt the 2011-12 school district budget as presented and cover the budget shortfall by using the fund balance carried on a 7-2 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Feldt, Hesselbacher, Murray, Sodemann and Stottler.  Comms. D. Severson and P. Severson voted in opposition.

Personnel/Policy/Legislative/Curriculum Committee Report.  a.  Discussion and possible action regarding current and pending legislative issues.  This item was postponed to the November 8, 2011 board meeting.

            b.  Discussion and possible action regarding upcoming meeting with state legislators.  Comm. Hesselbacher said items 15b.1 through 15b.9 were the proposed agenda for the meeting with the legislators scheduled for Friday, October 28, 2011 at 10 a.m.  She said Comm. Murray would be chairing the meeting in her absence.  Comm. Hesselbacher said the focus would be on how these items would affect the school district and school district finances.

            1.)  School District of Janesville legislative priorities and policies for 2011-12.

            2.)  2011-12 budget review.

            3.)  How school funding is related to the concept of how higher expenditures (and taxation) may or may not equal more state aid.

            4.)  Reduction in Janesville state aid dollars to support Milwaukee charter schools.

            5.)  2011 Senate Bill 174 and 2011 Assembly Bill 314 – Closing the parental choice program for eligible school districts to additional school districts.

            6.)  Potential expansion of Youth Options Program.

            7.)  Legislative issues.  Special Session AB 18 – Authorizing a school board to grant a vocational high school diploma.  Legislative Reference Bureau (LRB) 2964 – Providing additional state aid and revenue limit authority for certain school districts and making an appropriation.

            8.)  WASB resolution to allow school districts to select to have their equalization aid paid in 10 installment payments without interest charges.

            9.)  Closing comments by legislators.

Discussion and Consider Approval Allowing Administration to Re-evaluate Repurposing School District of Janesville Facilities Taking into Account the Staffing Plan, Budget Reductions and Enrollment in Accordance with the 2012-13 Budget Cycle.  Postponed to November 8, 2011.

Discussion and Consider Approval of Superintendent’s 2011-12 Leadership Evaluation Measurement (LEM) Tool.  Postponed to November 8, 2011.

Announcements.  Comm. Stottler stated that Jane Thompson, lead teacher of the Janesville Academy for International Studies, will be recognized for her service as a Rock County Board Supervisor on October 27, 2011.

Future Board Agenda Items.  Comm. Dommershausen asked for discussion regarding a referendum on raising additional taxes to the maximum amount allowed by law for the 2011-12 budget year.  Comm. Ardrey suggested this request be placed on the next Finance/Buildings and Grounds Committee agenda.

Adjournment  Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. Hesselbacher, to adjourn at 10:38 p.m.  The motion carried on a 9-0 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Feldt, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sodemann and Stottler voting in the affirmative.

________________________________

Nancy M. Hewes, Assistant Board Clerk

Janesville Board of Education

Janesville Board of Education Special Meeting

Craig High School – Small Auditorium

October 25, 2011

5:45 p.m.

Commissioners present:  Ardrey, Dommershausen, Feldt, Hesselbacher Murray D. Severson, P. Severson, Sodemann and Stottler.

President Sodemann called the special meeting to order which was duly noticed on October 21, 2011 through posting and notification of the press in accordance with Wisconsin §19.84.

            From 5:45-6:20 p.m. prior to the regular board meeting, board members participated in a question and answer period with social studies students.  Craig Principal Alison Spiegel welcomed board members.  Comms. Feldt and Stottler explained the process involved in running for school board.  Comm. Feldt said the individuals should be interested in the position.  Once they get 100, but not more than 200, valid signatures on their nomination papers, they can begin their campaign to convince citizens to vote for them.  Comm. Hesselbacher said the candidate must be 18, a US citizen, live within the boundaries of the school district and cannot be a felon.  Comm. Stottler said three school board positions are up for election each year.  Comm. Sodemann said vacancies can be filled by appointment or held open until the next Spring election.  The April school board election is non-partisan office. 

            Comm. D. Severson told of the duties of school board officers and the role of the school board.  He said the biggest thing board members do is serve – they do not get paid.  Comm. Hesselbacher said their job is to hire and evaluate the Superintendent, to develop and review board policies, and to develop and approve an annual budget and adopt a tax levy.  Comm. Sodemann said board members represent citizens at large. 

            In response to a question on the Fund 10 balance, Comm. Murray said the money comes from local property taxpayers plus the state and federal government.  He said it is like a checking account in that the balance fluctuates as the district receives revenue at specific times during the year and then has expenses that must be met throughout the entire year.  He said there is board policy that stipulates what percentage of balances must be maintained in certain categories.  The policy is set by the board members and they have the authority to change the percentages.  If there is an adequate Fund 10 balance, then the district’s financial strength is attractive to the business world if the district needs to take out loans or issue bonds.

            Students asked if the board thought there would be more reductions in class options.  Significant cuts in course selection options have already been made.  Comm. Hesselbacher said the board is already looking at the 2012-13 district budget and knows it will be faced with a large budget deficit.  She noted that over 80 percent of the budget goes toward staff salaries and benefits.  Comm. P. Severson said the board did not cut any classes.  They just raised the minimum number of students who have to sign up for a class in order for the district to staff that class.  Comm. D. Severson said students will see more reductions in class options next year because the money is just not there.  That is the reality.  Comm. Stottler said the board has looked at every way it can to save money.  She said Comm. Ardrey uncovered areas where more cost savings can be garnered from energy efficiencies.  She said energy cost savings measures were incorporated into the Craig renovation/additions.

            A student asked if there were layoffs in the future, was there any way to lay off teachers that are poor performers.  Comm. Sodemann said not yet because the teachers are under contract until June 30, 2013.  After that the school board will have the option to put new procedures in place to spell out that process. 

            The next question addressed classes being quite large with most being filled to the maximum.  The student asked if the board was looking to change the teacher pupil ratio for next year.  Comm. Dommershausen said he hoped not, but staffing is driven by enrollment.  The physical size of classrooms must also be taken into account.

            At student stated that many school districts have seen shortfalls in their budgets over the last couple of years.  What are the flaws in the state funding system?  How could the system be improved?  Comm. Feldt said that because of the diversity in the size and type of the 425 school districts throughout the state, it is difficult to come up with a funding formula that serves all school districts well.  He said there have been a number of funding formulas proposed over the years.  Comm. Stottler thought there may be a major overhaul in how public education is funded in Wisconsin in the 2013-15 biennium.  Comm. Hesselbacher said each state has its own laws for funding public education.  A student suggested looking at how other states fund public education.  Comm. Sodemann stated that many states are in a funding crisis for public education.

            In response to the questions is a school closure still possible for next year and if so, how would the board determine which school and by when, Comm. Ardrey said the board already determined that no elementary school would be closed in the 2012-13 school year.  He said the board needs to do an overall comprehensive facility study of all schools.  Comm. Ardrey said the board knows there is excess space in all schools.  They must determine how best to use that space in a more efficient manner.

            In response to the question of how the district will attempt to maintain and attract people to come to Janesville with the possibility of another budget shortfall next year, Comm. Murray felt it was time for the district to turn the corner and start celebrating the successes in Janesville.  He said Kennedy Elementary School received a national Blue Ribbon Award.  ACT scores continue to rise along with graduation rates in spite of the hurdles that have had to be overcome.  Comm. Sodemann said the students should be thankful for the comprehensive education that is offered.  Even with the adjustments that have had to be made, he felt students have more options than what is available in a lot of other districts around the state.  If Janesville has a highly supportive educational system, then business will be attracted to Janesville.

            The last question was about the possibility of increasing fees for school, athletics and parking next year.  Comm. D. Severson thought they should be raised.  He asked the students to do some comparison research with other schools in the same conference.  He thought Janesville fees were a lot less than Madison. 

            The government observation option of the civics engagement project is intended to familiarize students with the various functions of a local governmental unit, a public issue, or election event.

Adjournment  Comm. D. Severson moved, seconded by Comm. Hesselbacher, to adjourn at 6:20 p.m.  The motion carried on a 9-0 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Feldt, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sodemann and Stottler voting in the affirmative.

________________________________

Nancy M. Hewes, Assistant Board Clerk

Janesville Board of Education

Janesville Board of Education Meeting

Educational Services Center

October 11, 2011

6:40 p.m.

Commissioners present:  Ardrey, Dommershausen, Feldt, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sodemann and Stottler.

President Sodemann called the regular meeting to order which was duly noticed on October 7, 2011 through posting and notification of the press in accordance with Wisconsin §19.84.

Natalie and Owen Brown, Ella and Julia Masterson, and Xadius Larsen, Adams Elementary School students, led the Pledge of Allegiance.

Public Hearing on the 2011-12 Proposed District Budget.  Betty Ellefson, 1245 Bouchard, said jobs are gone, unemployment is high and seniors are on a fixed income.  She asked where will people come up with extra money to pay higher taxes?  She thought the district should try to live on what it has – not what it wants.

            John Gorski, 402 E. Centerway, said unemployment is 10 percent, declining population, there are housing foreclosures, seniors must live on fixed incomes, and there is a significant increase in the poverty level in Rock County yet the government payroll keeps growing while the private sector decreases.  He felt the district should live within its means.  The citizens did not cause the budget shortfall; current and former board members did.  He felt it was about time public employees started doing without.  He suggested that parents who were willing to have their taxes raised to save their schools write out a check to the district for $100 per child.  The school board should stay within its budget and be fiscally responsible.

            Carol Garry, 126 E. State St., said Janesville has 7,301 unemployed persons as of August 11, 2011.  The board cannot get taxes out of people who do not have jobs.  She said there has been a 9.8 percent drop in income from the start of the recession to June 2011.  Ms. Garry said she is retired and has not seen any raise in her Social Security income.  She felt the board would have to take money out of its fund balance or come up with something else.

            Al Lembrich, 541 Miller Ave., said the board has a spending problem, not a revenue problem.  The budget deficit problem came about with the last set of contracts with Cadillac benefits.  He said the district has schools with empty classrooms and felt some schools should be closed down.  He did not see the need to rent facilities when there are empty classrooms.  He asked how many vehicles are in the district’s fleet and how much is spent on cell phones.  He asked if the district should be buying new books at publisher prices or should it find some other source.  Mr. Lembrich felt the district should not be taxing to the max – it should be cutting to the max.  He suggested cutting another $500,000 from the budget.  He felt it was time for the district to streamline and downsize.  Mr. Lembrich thought the board should plan on closing four schools next fiscal year and put partitions in the gyms and hold classes there.  He asked the board to stop spending beyond its means.

            Julie Backenkeller, 719 N. Grant Ave., asked the district to get a new marketing plan and public relations campaign to help with school closings.  She felt it should be called a school or building re-purposing plan because the facility will not be closed; it will be used for something else.  Ms. Backenkeller said she is not opposed to a tax hike, however, if the district keeps renting facilities then she is opposed.  She has seen cuts that have impacted her children in the classroom.  She urged citizens to go to the schools and volunteer in the classrooms.

            The public hearing on the 2011-12 district budget closed at 6:52 p.m.

Safety Message.  Dr. Cargile said in the past seven years, an average of 16 employees have suffered accidents during October.  Most (40 percent) have been slips, trips or falls.  She said last October $37,000 in medical claims was the result of materials handling accidents that resulted in muscle strains.  She suggested that people analyze a task, stretch before and during tasks that require handling materials, and use good handling techniques.  The use of proper lifting techniques can reduce accidents.

Citizen Comments.  Eric Rhodes, 1124 Evie Dr., said he was speaking on behalf of the not-for-profit South Central Swim Team (SCST), which provides opportunities for local youth to learn swimming in a team atmosphere with skilled instructors.  He said the team has been using the swimming pools at Parker and Craig because there are no other facilities in Janesville for competitive swimming.  Mr. Rhodes said the club has 75 youth members.  Because of licensing requirements, they cannot use volunteer coaches.  Most of their expense is in coaching costs.  Since 2007 the swim club has operated under a partnership with Leisure Services to use district facilities at an annual fee of $4,000.  The facilities use agreement between the district and Leisure Services has been re-negotiated and the SCST has been dropped.  The current proposal is for SCST to pay $8,000 per year for the continued use of the high school pools.  The club would have to look at fee increases and perhaps reconsider their financial assistance program.  Mr. Rhodes said it is not customary for other area school districts to charge facility use fees to local community swim teams.  He does not believe their use of the high school pools increases expenses significantly.  Mr. Rhodes asked the board for a reduction in fees to $4,000 annually. 

Student Presenters to the Board.  Karina Triller, Craig High School presenter, said homecoming activities were eventful and colorful.  Students from Germany will be visiting Craig on October 21.  The BRO and SES groups will have an informational meeting regarding entrance requirements for college.  On October 25 social studies students will meet with the board as part of their civics engagement course requirement.  A blood drive will be held on October 31.  Several girls’ from the golf and tennis teams advanced to sectional competition.  The musical will be “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” on November 4-6.

            Jamie Lilburn, Parker High School presenter, said this is homecoming week.  Students are doing different dress-up days during the week.  Friday is the homecoming assembly and parade around the Parker neighborhood.  A parent meeting is scheduled for October 17 for Washington Seminar students.  The boys’ soccer team advanced to regional competition and two girls’ from the tennis team advanced to state competition.  Jamie explained “second chance lunch.”  The French Club will be decorating shoes and then be contacting a former French teacher through Skype.

Consider Approval of Consent Agenda  a.  Approve minutes of September 27, 2011 regular board meeting;  b.  Receive and File Fund Summary Report;  c.  Resignations/Retirements.   None.  d.  Appointments.  The teaching position appointments of Lauren Smith, effective September 19, 2011; and Jeffrey Winchell, effective October 10, 2011.  e.  Second reading of Board Policy 5425, Administering Medications to Students.  f.  Second reading of Board Policy 5310, Corporal Punishment – Use of Force.  g.  Approve scholarship terms with a private donor.  h. Commendations.  President Sodemann removed item g. and said it would be placed on the October 25, 2011 board meeting agenda.  Comm. Stottler moved, seconded by Comm. Feldt, to approve the consent agenda as presented with the exception of item g.  The motion carried on a 9-0 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Feldt, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sodemann and Stottler voting in the affirmative. 

Discussion and First Reading of Revised Board Policy 5236, Students – Dangerous Weapons.  Mr. Haeger noted that effective November 1, 2011, Wisconsin will have a new gun concealment law in effect that will impact schools.  The board needs to revise several board policies and administrative regulations and create a new board policy.  The law affects people 21 years of age and older.  The law affects public, parochial and private schools.  The law now considers electronic guns to be illegal.  The cost associated with this new law will be to post signs.  Mr. Haeger said school zones are safe zones.  The board has the option to post schools.  The Educational Services Center is a building that is not under the guidelines of the gun concealment law because it is not a school.  To be sure guns do not come into the ESC, a sign must be posted.  The recommendation that Dr. Schulte is making is that the board go ahead and post signage at the ESC and other venues where district-related events are held and management would allow signs to be posted.

            Mr. Haeger said Board Policy 5236 contains revisions to the policy for students.  Some sections that do not pertain to students were removed.  Comm. Stottler asked if the revised policy had been reviewed by the board’s attorney and the district’s insurance carrier.  Mr. Haeger said attorney Moore had checked the policy and the insurance carrier said there would be no change in premiums. 

Discussion and Consider Approval to Delete Administrative Regulation 5236.1, Students – Dangerous Weapons.  Mr. Haeger explained that this wording was now in the revised Board Policy 5310, Corporal Punishment – Use of Force.  Comm. Feldt moved, seconded by Comm. Murray, to approve deletion of Administrative Regulation 4236.1, Students – Dangerous Weapons.  The motion carried on a 9-0 vote.

Discussion and First Reading of Revised Board Policy 4139, Personnel – Dangerous Weapons.  This board policy applies to employees of the district.  Mr. Haeger explained that it will be legal for an unloaded gun that is encased or in a locked firearms rack in a motor vehicle of a person 21 years of age or older to be in a school parking lot.

Discussion and First Reading of New Board Policy 1325, Community – Dangerous Weapons.  Mr. Haeger said this new board policy addresses the public coming onto school grounds.  He said the ESC should be a posted building and also other school function activities off school grounds.  The district can post other signs if the venue is used for educational activities and the other facility management agrees.

Consider Approval to Amend the Previously Adopted Motion to Decrease the Reportable Employee Accident Rate by 10 Percent by Substituting “from 5.09 Percent per 100 Employees in 2010-11 to 4.58 Percent per 100 Employees in 2011-12” as a Correction to the Percentages to the Board of Education Goal Under the Health and Safety Pillar.  Mr. Haeger said the initial reported accident rate was incorrect.  Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. Stottler, to approve amending the previously adopted motion to decrease the reportable employee accident rate by 10 percent by substituting “from 5.09 percent per 100 employees in 2010-11 to 4.58 percent per 100 employees in 2011-12” as a correction to the percentages to the Board of Education goal under the health and safety pillar.  The motion carried on a 9-0 vote.

            Ms. Hilliker, Asst. Director of Special Educational, recognized Halie Hamilton from TAGOS Leadership Academy representing the charter schools.

Presentation by Dr. Janet Pilcher of the Studer Group.  Dr. Pilcher talked about the Leadership Evaluation Measurement (LEM) process and the work that everyone has been doing for the past several years.  She said the School District of Janesville was the only school district in the nation to have LEM’s for administrative staff when the process first started.  She said the LEM’s always start with the board’s goals and cascade down to administrators/building leaders.  The four key drivers are quality (student achievement), people, service and finance.  Dr. Pilcher said the district administrator should have 6-8 LEM goals.  That does not mean the district does not measure other things or that they are not important, but they are just not the focus for the superintendent’s evaluation.  Dr. Pilcher discussed the LEM goal rating scale and the weighting.  She said a 2 is maintaining the status quo; 3 is meeting the goal; 4 is a stretch goal; 5 means you “hit it out of the park.”  Comm. P. Severson asked how the Studer Group came up with the rubric numbers that determine what is meaningful movement for an organization in improvement status.  Dr. Pilcher said from national data that is collected.  Dr. Pilcher said the board could keep items on the dashboard they wish to track.  They would just not be used to evaluate the superintendent.  She felt there was a difference between the dashboard and the LEM.  The LEM is used for evaluation.  The dashboard keeps track in a transparent way of those things the district would like to measure.  Comm. Feldt thought a bonus should be paid only if a person exceeds a goal – not when they meet a goal that was set.  Dr. Pilcher said the scale was set to stretch and encourage leaders to move and improve.

Discussion and Consider Approval of Superintendent’s Leadership Evaluation Measurement Tool (LEM).  Postponed to a future board meeting.

Update to the Board on the Work of the Insurance Learning Committee.  Ms. Tullar said the Quantum Coordinated Health Care program will be implemented beginning November 1, 2011.  District medical claims have increased significantly over the past three years and this will provide an opportunity for the district to control health care costs.  Participation in this program is completely voluntary so it does not violate any provisions of Act 10.    She said it provides utilization management, disease management and large case management.  Quantum Health provides a one phone call solution to employee health care issues or concerns within the district insurance plan.  Quantum will refer employees to the proper medical personnel.  Ms. Tullar said 60 percent of self-referrals are often to the wrong specialist causing unnecessary cost and delay.  UMR charged $86,000 per year for their services.  The cost for Quantum is $108,000 plus half of the savings they generate up to an annual maximum of $430,000.  Comm. P. Severson asked if this cost had been built into the budget.  Mr. Pennington said yes, he had used a conservative amount of savings for the 2011-12 budget.  Comm. Stottler encouraged all employees to voluntarily participate in this program.  Comm. Dommershausen asked how often the district would receive reports.  Ms. Tullar said quarterly.

Presentation and Discussion of Additional Information Regarding Compensation for Non-Represented Staff.  Dr. Schulte said she was asking the board to amend the pending motion which is the next agenda item.  Dr. Schulte said she was recommending a pay freeze for all administrative staff for 2011-12.  If the district ends the 2011-12 fiscal year with a surplus, then each administrator would receive a maximum flat increase of $690.  The 53 other non-represented non-administrative staff members would receive a flat increase of $690.  Dr. Schulte also recommended using $20,000 of discretionary money to be used to upgrade selected employment classifications for Information Systems staff and discretionary money of $10,000 to be used as part of an incentivized pay structure with the LEM process.  The discretionary money will be offset by savings from the vacant Manager of Information Systems position.

Consider Approval of Pending Motion to Implement a Pay Freeze for the 2011-12 Budget Year for all Non-Represented Staff.  President Sodemann said Comm. Murray stated that non-represented staff had a 7.46 percent increase in 2008-09.  Ms. Tullar explained that in 2008-09 the increase was figured on a total benefits package increase of 3.7 percent for 2008-09.  Ms. Tullar said in 2008-09 health insurance premiums decreased, the Wisconsin Retirement System contribution decreased, and this group started paying a portion of their health insurance premiums so more money was available for salary increases.  Comm. P. Severson moved, seconded by Comm. Hesselbacher, that the pending motion be amended to implement a pay freeze for all administrative staff, but the remaining 53 non-represented, non-administrative staff be given a flat dollar increase of $690 and discretionary money of $10,000 be used as part of an incentive pay structure for administrators who utilize the LEM tool.  Comm. Stottler needed to clarify that Comm. P. Severson intentionally left out the end of the 2011-12 school year surplus provision to administrators and revisions to IT staff salaries.  The motion carried on a 7-2 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Feldt, Hesselbacher, P. Severson, Sodemann and Stottler voting in the affirmative.  Comms. Murray and D. Severson voted in opposition.

            Comm. P. Severson moved, seconded by Comm. Dommershausen, to amend the motion to include the provision that the $10,000 in discretionary money be paid out at a maximum amount of $500 per administrator.  The motion failed on a 1-8 vote with Comm. P. Severson voting in the affirmative.  Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Feldt, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, Sodemann and Stottler voting in opposition.

            Comm. Sodemann moved to amend the motion to reduce $690 to $460 for the non-represented staff to be consistent with external comparables.  The motion died for lack of a second.

            The motion, as amended, to implement a pay freeze for all administrative staff, but the remaining 53 non-represented, non-administrative staff be given a flat increase of $690 and discretionary money of $10,000 to be used as part of the incentivized pay structure for administrators who utilize the LEM tool carried on a 6-3 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Feldt, Hesselbacher, P. Severson and Stottler voting in the affirmative.  Comms. Murray, D. Severson and Sodemann voted in opposition.

Finance/Buildings and Grounds Committee Report.  a.  Safety message.  With reference to Fire Prevention Week, the safety message reminded everyone to replace smoke detector batteries and make sure fire extinguishers were fully charged.

            b.  Update on Continuing Progress on Energy Savings Projects.  Mr. Leeder provided committee members with an update.  He and Mr. Eichman will be attending a series of energy conservation seminars conducted by Focus on Energy.  Comm. Ardrey explained that the HVAC system at Kennedy was designed to have both the natural gas and air conditioning running at the same time.  Mr. Leeder said a decision has been made to change this procedure.

            c.  Update on Bond Rating Conference Call.  Mr. Pennington said this was a good, positive exchange of information.  It was a surveillance call along with ones made to the City of Janesville and Rock County.  Mr. Pennington said he received a call from Moody’s this morning and the School District of Janesville will keep their Aa2 bond rating.  He said this was very good news.  President Sodemann explained that if the board uses some of the fund balance to balance the budget and has a plan to replenish the fund, it would be viewed as not hurting the district’s bond rating.  President Sodemann said Carol Wirth, the district’s bond consultant, suggested that two outstanding bond issues were worth looking at with the current lower rates.  Mr. Pennington said some items may need to be put in place prior to the board’s next regularly scheduled meeting, but he is still working on that situation.

            d.  Discussion and Possible Action Regarding New Proposal for Changes Regarding Other Post-Employment Benefit (OPEB) Funding (2011 Assembly Bill 219).  Mr. Pennington said once the board gets through the 2011-12 budget, they will need to address the OPEB liability more actively.  He thought this legislation might push the district closer to a plan to have the OPEB liability fully funded.  This bill would give an end point. 

            e.  Discussion and Consider Approval of Revisions to Board Policy 3320, General Fund Balance.  Mr. Pennington said the changes were made so the policy is in compliance with the Governmental Accounting Standards Board Rule 54.  It does not change any of the percentages at this time.  Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. Ardrey, to approve the revisions to Board Policy 3320 as presented.  The motion carried on a 9-0 vote.

            f.  Discussion and Consider Approval of Revisions to Board Policy 3100 and Administrative Regulation 3100.1, Annual Operating Budget.  Mr. Pennington said changes were made to timelines regarding the date of the public hearing on the budget and setting the tax levy to reflect current practice.  Comm. Feldt moved, seconded by Comm. Murray, to approve the revisions to Administrative Regulation 3100.1 as presented. 

            Comm. Sodemann moved, seconded by Comm. Feldt, to amend the motion to substitute “October 31” for “the second Board meeting in October” in number three of Administrative Regulation 3100.1.  The amendment carried on a 9-0 vote. 

            The motion, as amended, carried on a 9-0 vote. 

            g.  Discussion and Consider Approval of Revisions to Board Policy 3645 and Administrative Regulation 3645.1, Tobacco Use.  Mr. Pennington said the language in the board policy and the administrative regulation was updated to bring it into compliance with state statutes.  Comm. Stottler moved, seconded by Comm. Murray, to approve the revisions to Board Policy 3645 and Administrative Regulation 3645.1 as presented.  The motion carried on a 9-0 vote.

            h.  Future Committee Agenda Items.  (summary of Committee requests)  None could be recalled.

            President Sodemann asked if there might be a need for a special board meeting to be called quickly if there is movement on the possibility of calling the bonds that the board members should be aware of.  Mr. Pennington said that could be possible.

Presentation of Student Satisfaction Survey to be Administered at the Elementary and Secondary Level by December 2011.  Dr. Cargile said the purpose of this survey is to ascertain students’ perception of their experiences in the School District of Janesville in the areas of diversity, safety, academics, rigor of coursework, extra-curricular activities and 21^st Century learning.  The survey will be given in December 2011.  Administration will work with principals to roll out data to staff.  Dr. Cargile said they are making sure the survey process is in alignment with Board Policy 6210, Survey and Opinion Polls.  Parents will be notified of the purpose of the survey.  Participation on the part of the student will be voluntary.  The survey will not be used to evaluate teachers.  Two forms of the survey will be administered – one for PreK-3 and another for 4-12.

            Comm. Stottler suggested that survey question language be changed to reflect the opinion of a particular student.  Change “My teachers make sure all kids are learning” to “My teacher makes sure I learn.”  She also thought question 8 asked two questions.  She also felt the survey for students in grades 4-12 might be too comprehensive for students in grades 4-5.  Comm. Stottler also suggested doing an exit survey with seniors and then a follow-up survey a year later.  Ms. Hilliker said they have done such surveys in the past, but did not get a very good response rate.  Dr. Cargile said they did such a survey last year but did not get a very good response rate.

            Comm. Feldt said if teachers serve as the gateway to getting children excited about learning, he sees no survey questions like “Does my teacher show passion or excitement about the material they are presenting?”  “My teacher gets excited about the subject they are teaching?”  Is the teacher engaged and then gets the students engaged in learning? 

            Comm. P. Severson asked about the delivery method of this survey.  Dr. Cargile said it would be administered online through Survey Monkey.

            Comm. Sodemann suggested changing the response language in questions 16-23 from “almost always” to “always.”  In response to his question about students surveying individual teachers, Ms. Hilliker explained the supervision and evaluation model the district uses.

Preliminary Discussion on Budget Outlook for the 2012-13 School Year.  Mr. Pennington said the increases for salaries and benefits, assuming the same level of staffing, amounts to $4.2 million.  All other estimates will depend on how much of the fund balance is used and if there would be an increased property tax levy.  He noted that the district can potentially obtain an additional $50/student in 2012-13 in state aid if the property tax levy is increased to the maximum amount.  Comm. Stottler thought Dr. Sperry could not cut the number of staff that he needs to in order to come up with the cuts that need to be made.  She thought the board should give directive to administration to have flexibility in balancing the 2012-13 budget even if it means that administration will have to re-purpose a building or restructure where things will fit. 

Discussion and Consider Possible Action Regarding a Survey or Poll to Ascertain the Public’s Opinion on Raising Property Taxes.  Postponed.

Presentation of the Detailed 2011-12 Proposed District Budget Book and Possible Action on Any Items.  Mr. Pennington said information has been distributed to the board since November 2010.  He knows there still will be revisions to the budget after it is adopted.  He said the budget is prepared on a conservative basis using the best information known at the time of preparation.  Mr. Pennington encouraged the board to look carefully at the narratives in the detailed budget book.  Board members should direct any budget questions to Mr. Pennington or Mr. Grender.  Mr. Pennington recapped prior expense reductions approved by the board and revenue generating items.  Total revenues for 2011-12 are expected to be $105.3 million.  Total estimated expenditures are $111.4 million, leaving a current budget shortfall of $6.1 million.  He said the Janesville Education Association line item on lane movement has been changed from $500,000 to $750,000 upon further refinement.  Mr. Pennington said the current budget does not include any increase in property tax levy from the prior year.  He said the current tax levy cap is $3.4 million for the Fund 10 portion or $3.6 million for the overall increase.  Mr. Pennington said the current fund balance board policy allows the use of fund balance reserves for one-time expenditures which is what the board did last year.  It appears that the board could use up to $5.1 million of fund balance reserves without changing the current fund balance board policy. 

            Comm. Murray asked for an updated list showing how the district got to the current budget point.  Mr. Pennington said he would provide such a list to the board. 

Update and Consider Possible Action on the 2011-12 Proposed District Reductions or Revenue Sources.  President Sodemann said the two possible sources for closing the 2011-12 budget gap are use of fund balance and increase in property tax.  He asked that administration bring forth a recommendation as to how to close the budget gap. 

Announcements.  Comm. Dommershausen noted the Community Conversations in Excellence open public forum to be held on October 14, 2011 from 3:30-5:30 at Madison Elementary School.  Dr. Schulte said the Third Annual Janesville Employees’ Community Food Drive is set for December 17, 2011.  Volunteers are needed and cash/check donations are being accepted.  Dr. Schulte also said Principals McMahon from Madison, Galvin from Lincoln, Hilliker from TAGOS, and Parks from Adams will be recognized at the State Capitol for leading Wisconsin Schools of Promise.

            Dr. Sperry said citizens can write checks to support the 4^th and 5^th grade track meet.  The district is also working on a fundraiser with Subway. 

Future Board Agenda Items (summary of Board requests).  President Sodemann asked that administration bring forth a recommendation as to how to close the budget gap.  Comm. Stottler requested that the October 25, 2011 board agenda be written so she can make a motion on the 2012-13 budget.  Comm. Hesselbacher asked that the budget items be placed early on the October 25, 2011 board agenda.

The Board may consider a motion to reconvene in closed session to consider matters previously discussed at a closed session earlier in the evening.  The grounds for meeting in closed session and the subject of the closed session, if such a motion is made, may be as follows per b.  Wisconsin §19,.85(1)(c) to discuss compensation data of any public employee over which the governmental body has jurisdiction of exercises responsibility.  Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. P. Severson, to reconvene in closed session at 10:20 p.m.  The motion carried on a 9-0 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Feldt, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sodemann and Stottler voting in the affirmative.

Adjournment.  Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. Hesselbacher, to adjourn at 10:27 p.m.  The motion carried on a 9-0 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Feldt, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sodemann and Stottler voting in the affirmative.

_________________________________

Nancy M. Hewes, Assistant Board Clerk

Janesville Board of Education

Janesville Board of Education Meeting

Educational Services Center

September 27, 2011

6:40 p.m.

Commissioners present:  Ardrey, Dommershausen, Feldt, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sodemann and Stottler.

President Sodemann called the regular meeting to order which was duly noticed on September 23, 2011 through posting and notification of the press in accordance with Wisconsin §19.84.

Karina Triller, Craig High School student, led the Pledge of Allegiance.

Safety Message.  Dr. Cargile stressed the proper use of extension cords in the classroom.  She reviewed these safety guidelines:  extension cords are only a temporary connection and should never be linked together, cords from an appliance should be plugged directly into a power source without stretching, make sure they have a third grounding prong plug, never run extensions cords under a rug or hang them over nails, avoid using excess power strips so circuits are not overloaded, never use an extension cord while it is coiled.  Teams will conduct school inspections to make sure these safety guidelines are being followed.

Citizen Comments.  Sandy Hoeser, 1005 Bedford Dr., said she has been a member of the Boundary Lines Committee since it formed in November 2009 and voted to not close any elementary school because she thought it was not in the best interest of Janesville, the educational system and local business development.  She asked board members to consider the impact of loosing a neighborhood school and the effect on property values of surrounding homes, the loss of a site for the BASICS before and after school childcare program, and the ripple effect on other schools.  Ms. Hoeser was concerned that two high performing schools were on the list for consideration for closure.  She felt school performance was important to keep in mind.  This may be difficult to achieve if class sizes are increased.  She said children with disabilities need to have proper resources and classrooms available.  It is important that schools have the flexibility to allow for population growth and additional students.  She asked the board to look into the possibility of moving a charter school into an elementary school.  Ms. Hoeser said she knows there are financial aspects to keep in mind but did not think it was justifiable to close an elementary school.

            Christine Rice, 222 Rockshire Dr., said she has a grandson at Harrison and attended several of the public hearings.  She did not want this to be the start of a downward spiral for education in Janesville.  She saw an upward trend in enrollment and energy cost savings.  She thought these things would help increase revenue and reduce costs.  She knew that people worked hard and deserved raises, but she suggested that no salary increases be given at this time because other citizens have had to tighten their belts in these times.

            Taylor Olson, 831 Sussex Dr., said he was a freshman at Craig and had attended Harrison.  He has a sister at Harrison and does not want to see any elementary school closed.  He felt the students at Harrison learn respect from the open construction of their building.  They also see each other students and their teachers more often. 

            Diane Eyers, 3320 LaMancha Dr., said she understood that the district is facing a deficit next year.  However, she would hate to see the board make a hasty decision to close a school at this time.  She asked the board to wait and see how things are going to pan out in the next few years.  She encouraged the Boundary Lines Committee to continue to collect data on all of the schools.  She felt it was more difficult to re-open a school than close one and listed a number of reasons.  Ms. Eyers said she knows there are 40 open elementary classrooms throughout the district but they are needed as a place to help small groups of students who are struggling as well as students who need more academic challenges.  She felt the board needed to use the tools the legislature gave them.  She noted that the district has not taxed to the maximum allowable limit for a number of years in the past.  She said the community had supported education in the past and felt it would support education again.  Closing a school would not be in the best interest of children or the community.  She said the board was elected to represent the children, the community and the taxpayers in that order.   

            Leon Freeburg, 1803 Roxbury Rd., said his sons attended Janesville schools.  He talked about the quality of education in Janesville.  He said they moved here from Nebraska and decided to stay because of the schools and quality of life in the community.  He felt that a community that supports its educational system and encourages creativity and change will thrive.  He asked that everyone stop bashing teachers and education and do what is in the best interest of children.  He was in favor of keeping all schools open.

            Lon Coplien, 1620 N. Little Ct., commented on what the community should expect from the teachers and also the taxpayers.  He asked if reducing teacher salaries and raising taxes was going to help education.  The board will have to lower something in the future to balance the budget.

            Kayla Raupp, 308 N. Pine St., said she was the PTA president for Madison elementary.  She said this school is already facing crowding.  Some special education students and reading groups are meeting in the hallways.  Closing an elementary school would hurt students not only at that school, but all over the district.

            Amy Schoff, 2014 Rockport Rd., said she was treasurer of the Madison PTA and agreed with Ms. Raupp.  If the board closes one elementary school, it will affect all of the other schools.  She was against closing any school.

            Heather DiStefano, 1614 Heather Ct., said the board will be making a decision tonight that will impact the community beyond their time on the school board.  She said the Boundary Lines Committee had collected a lot of data that can continue to be updated.  She thanked the members who served and the board members who attended the public hearings.  She felt citizens have pride in Janesville, but this issue has failed to rally all community members.  Ms. DiStefano said nothing she has heard or read indicates that closing a school is a good idea or the answer to the district’s budget issues.  She felt the board should honor the recommendation of the Boundary Lines Committee.  In order to fix the budget situation, everyone in the community is going to have to give and give up a little.  The board’s decision will affect everyone in the community.  She urged the board not to close a school and rally the community to help solve the district’s budget problem.

            David DiStefano, 1614 Heather Ct., said he was a member of the Boundary Lines Committee.  He thanked the committee members and district staff for their time and effort in gathering and analyzing data.  He said in crowded schools there is going to be less open areas and less opportunity for small groups of students to meet for extra help.  He said the comments

he heard from the community indicate that students will be able to manage, but he said the expectation should be that students will excel.  He noted that in the three public hearings, no one spoke in favor of closing any school.  There are not enough classrooms at one of the neighboring schools in which to place students if one of the three eastside schools is closed.  He asked the board to do the right thing and vote not to close any school.

            Erika Schultz, 652 Sussex Dr., said closing any school in this community is bad for children, bad for the surrounding neighborhoods and bad for the community.  She felt many people were committed to doing whatever is necessary to keep all schools open.

            Michelle Hayworth, 2303 Stonefield Ln., said she is the PTO president at Kennedy elementary.  She said closing a school will lower property values.  It will also make it difficult to market Janesville to new businesses.  She also noted that it could be very costly to modify other schools to accommodate students with disabilities.  The district may lose some open enrollment students if an eastside school is closed.  She asked the board to try to find alternative ways to get additional revenue or find cost savings.

            Ed Reich, 1240 Boynton Ct., he felt that no discussion about the impending need to close a school would be complete without considering U.S. and international finances. 

Student Presenters to the Board.  Ashley Krohmer-Garcia, representing the Rock River Charter School (RRCS), said she is a student in the e-learning program which is for seniors who need eight or less credits to graduate using online learning.  She told of the other programs offered by RRCS:  GED-Option 2 is for credit deficient students; SAPAR for pregnant and parenting teens; the alternative program serves students in grades 9-12 in core areas of social studies, English, science and math; and the community learning center which helps students raise their reading and math levels.  She said there were 151 students at RRCS.  Community service is an important component of RRCS learning.  Upcoming events include the first monthly visit from a representative of the Great Lakes Higher Education Center to provide advice to parents and students on college opportunities.  The RRCS will have an Open House on October 4 from 5-7 p.m.  September 28 is Bullying Awareness Day and Officers Olin and Mussey will be presenting a program on cyberbullying.  She thanked the board for supporting RRCS.

            Megan Bobolz, a representative of Tailoring Academics to Guide Our Students (TAGOS), said she is a freshman at TAGOS.  She chose to attend TAGOS because of difficulty with anxiety issues at her traditional high school.  With help from the TAGOS staff and smaller class sizes, she is doing well.  Because there is a link between achievement and attendance, the said staff is offering incentives for perfect attendance.  TAGOS was one of 116 Wisconsin schools recognized for their success in educating students from low income families.  The students are working on improving their WKCE scores.  Megan said this year students are expected to dress in a manner to foster a professional working environment to simulate the work world after graduation.  TAGOS has a new science teacher this year.  Last week students learned how the brain processes information.  Students will be traveling to the American Players Theatre to see “Taming of the Shrew” later this week.  Prior to attendance, cast members will present two seminars to TAGOS students. 

Consider Approval of Consent Agenda.  Comm. Stottler moved, seconded by Comm. Murray, to:  a.  approve and place on file the minutes of the September 13, 2011 regular board meeting and the September 6 and 15, 2011 Special Board meetings;  b.

Resignations/Retirements.  The support staff retirement of Judith Schmitz, Curriculum Coordinator, effective October 5, 2011.  The motion carried on a 9-0 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Feldt, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sodemann and Stottler voting in the affirmative. 

Discussion and Consider Approval of the Pending Motion to Not Close Any Elementary School Building Based on the Recommendation of the Boundary Lines Committee.  Comm. Ardrey moved, seconded by Comm. Feldt, to approve the pending motion to not close any elementary school building based on the recommendation of the Boundary Lines Committee.

            Comm. D. Severson said no one wants to close a particular school but the district will, in effect, be closing a school because the district has a $9 million deficit next year.  He said every school will be affected if the district has to lay off zero to180 teachers.  The board will have to wrestle with hard issues.  He said the board members chose to run for school board because they have love and pride for public education in Janesville.  He said he needed to look at everything because this affects all children in all schools.

            Comm. Dommershausen said he has heard from many business owners who have said they could go along with some of these things because it is the right thing to do.  He is bothered by a lack of a comprehensive facilities study for the district.  He said this goes deeper than just saving money. 

            Comm. Stottler said Comm. Ardrey, as Chair of the Boundary Lines Committee, was charged with a goal and he did it.  She thought the boundary lines policy needed to be updated.  She expressed concern with the data which she had to make a decision.  Comm. Stottler said the board would like to keep the neighborhood concept but the district is down 700 elementary students over the past 12 years and these are very tough economic times.  She is in favor of re-purposing the schools so the district does not have to continue to pay rent for charter schools in other facilities.  She felt the board has the responsibility of looking at re-purposing one if not two elementary schools.  She thought administration should be charged with coming forward with a recommendation on how to better manage resources and deal with the 700 decrease in elementary enrollment. 

            Comm. Feldt thought the School District of Janesville should be looked at as a $100 million business.  He thought it was responsible for the board to look at possible buildings that could be shuttered or re-purposed.  He felt the board should look at enrollment numbers – 700 fewer elementary students.  He also noted that 40 percent of the children who attend their neighborhood school do not live in that school’s attendance area, but still thinks that is a good idea.  If the board does not tackle the issue of enrollment, then the issue of closing a school almost becomes inevitable. 

            Comm. P. Severson said he wanted to wait and see the impact of the two new hospitals.  He would also like to see the energy savings at Kennedy.  Comm. P. Severson felt that if the board felt it needed to close a school, it should also look at re-drawing boundary lines.  He felt consideration should be given to closing option areas.  He felt the board will have to look at teacher/pupil ratios for next year.  He also felt growth on the city’s southwest side should be encouraged. 

            Comm. Ardrey said the district had never looked at all of the types of data that had been collected by the Boundary Lines Committee.  He felt the middle school and high schools should also have the same type of data review as the elementary schools.  He said if all students attended their neighborhood schools, there would be enough room.  The board needs to look at what it wants to accomplish with the facilities it has.

            Comm. Sodemann said it was a good thing to see how passionate people were about their schools.  He said bricks and mortar do not make a good school; it is the students, staff and parents.  Comm. Sodemann said the board was put in this budget deficit position by other decisions they made in the past.  He felt the district did have excess capacity issues.  Good schools do draw businesses to a community.  It is also true that a high tax rate will keep citizens away.

            The motion carried on a 6-3 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Feldt, Hesselbacher, Murray and P. Severson voting in the affirmative.  Comms. D. Severson, Sodemann and Stottler voted in opposition.

Discussion and Consider Possible Action Regarding an Advisory Referendum on Increased Property Tax Amounts and/or Use of Fund 10 Balance.  Attorney Moore referenced his memo included in the board packet.  He said the key element in a referendum is the precise wording of the question the board would like to ask.  Comm. D. Severson said he had originally brought this idea forward, but would rather put it aside.  He thought perhaps a phone survey may make more sense.  Comm. D. Severson thought he or someone else could work with the board president to construct a survey that might be conducted in the near future. 

            President Sodemann said he did not think the board could vote on an expenditure for a survey tonight, but it could be put on the next board agenda.

            Comm. Stottler suggested using an electronic scorecard or the alert now system to seek input.  President Sodemann felt more discussion was needed on a survey/poll and the selection process for the survey respondents.

Personnel/Policy/Legislative/Curriculum Committee Report.  a.  Educational presentation:  Current supervision and evaluation model for teachers.  Chairperson Hesselbacher said Dr. Ehrhardt gave a comprehensive presentation to the committee.

            b.  Update on reconvening of the District Supervision and Evaluation Committee.  Dr. Ehrhardt will provide the committee with an update in December 2011 as to changes the state is considering.

            c.  Discussion and possible action regarding compensation for non-represented staff.  Chairperson Hesselbacher said the committee referred discussion on this matter to the full board.  Dr. Schulte said administration has gathered information the committee requested and is still seeking further information.  Comm. P. Severson asked that board members be provided with a copy of the memo regarding restructuring of the information technology department.  Dr. Schulte said it is lacking some information, but she would send it.  President Sodemann noted that a 2 percent raise for non-represented staff had been built into the 2011-12 budget as a placeholder. 

            Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. D. Severson, to institute a pay freeze for the 2011-12 budget year for non-represented staff.

            Comm. Stottler said if the board goes ahead with a pay freeze, she was concerned that four or five IT staff members may take a job elsewhere.  She asked that consideration be given to evaluation of wages in that department to make them adequate or comparable. 

            Comm. Feldt said the board directed administration to gather some data.  He felt the board should wait until they have that information.  Comm. Feldt moved, seconded by Comm. P. Severson, to amend the motion to read postpone making a decision on the pending motion until the October 11, 2011 board meeting. 

            Comm. D. Severson stated that the district did not have money in the budget to give the non-represented staff a raise. 

            Comm. Stottler said in today’s educational system it not only takes a good teacher, but also a good infrastructure built around technology to provide a good education.  She thought waiting two weeks to make a decision was not too much to ask so she could make an informed decision.

            Comm. Murray said the non-represented staff got a 7.4 percent salary increase in 2008-09.  He felt this group should have a defined pay scale.

            President Sodemann said this group has taken what amounts to a 5.8 percent reduction in pay because they are the only ones making a contribution to the Wisconsin Retirement System.  Although he could not support a raise because of the budget deficit, he would consider a very small increase for administrators who met performance goals on their LEM’s.

            The amendment to postpone a decision until October 11, 2011 carried on a 7-2 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Feldt, Hesselbacher, P. Severson, Sodemann and Stottler voting in the affirmative.  Comms. Murray and D. Severson voted in opposition.

            Comm. Ardrey left the meeting at 8:40 p.m.

            d.  Discussion regarding current and pending legislative issues.  Chairperson Hesselbacher said the committee had preliminary discussion on a bill pertaining to changes in the Youth Options program.  Comm. Murray has scheduled an informal meeting with area legislators for October 28, 2011.

            e.  Discussion and consider approval of a grievance procedure for the School District of Janesville.  Dr. Sperry said as a result of the passage of Act 10, the district must have a new grievance procedure in place by October 1, 2011.  He noted that this would be a personnel procedure drafted by administration – not a board policy.  This new procedure will cover both represented and non-represented staff.  He said those staff members currently under contract would probably continue to file a grievance under their negotiated grievance procedure.  Under Act 10 the highest appeal is the school board.  Under the current union contracts, the highest appeal would be an arbitrator.  Comm. Feldt moved, seconded by Comm. Murray, to direct administration to establish a grievance procedure as outlined in the September 19, 2011 memo in the board packet.  The motion carried on a 7-0 vote with Comms. Feldt, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sodemann and Stottler voting in the affirmative.  Comm. Dommershausen was out of the room.

            f.  Discussion and consider approval of revisions to Board Policy 5425 and Administrative Regulation 5425.1, Administering Medications to Students.  This policy was updated to be in compliance with new state statutes.  Comm. Feldt moved, seconded by Comm. Stottler, to approve revisions to Board Policy 5425 and Administrative Regulation 5425.1, Administering Medications to Students.  The motion carried on a 7-0 vote with Comms. Feldt, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sodemann and Stottler voting in the affirmative.  Comm. Dommershausen was out of the room.

            g.  Discussion and consider approval of revisions to Board Policy 5310 and Administrative Regulation 5310.1, Corporal Punishment – Use of Force.  These changes were being made to align with state statutes and to provide clarity for school personnel when the use of force is deemed reasonable/necessary.  Comm. Feldt moved, seconded by Comm. Stottler, to approve revisions to Board Policy 5310 and Administrative Regulation 5310.1, Corporal Punishment – Use of Force.  The motion carried on a 7-0 vote with Comms. Feldt, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sodemann and Stottler voting in the affirmative.  Comm. Dommershausen was out of the room.

Update on Student Count and Teacher/Pupil Ratio.  Dr. Sperry said three contingencies had been built into the staffing plan.  He has now used 2.0 FTE of these – one for an additional kindergarten teacher at Harrison and one for an additional fifth grade teacher at Lincoln.  He noted that there are still 14 other “hot spots” they are watching closely.  He said they have looked at enrollment at the middle and high schools and balancing teacher/pupil ratios in selected classes.  In comparing total Third Friday in September enrollment (excluding Early Childhood and Preschool 4 Janesville students), there were 9,641 students in 2010-11 as compared to 9,586 students for 2011-12.  This is a decrease of 55 students.  Enrollment at the high school level is 3,132 for 2010-11 as compared to 3,071 for 2011-12 – a decrease of 61 students.  Comm. D. Severson asked for a comparison of actual Third Friday in September enrollment over the past several years.

            Comm. Feldt asked about teacher/pupil ratios.  He asked if the district keeps track of how many open enrollment students are in each grade level at each school.  Dr. Sperry said yes.  The district would look at another placement for an open enrollment student before hiring an additional teacher to stay within board policy teacher/pupil ratios.

Presentation and Discussion of Self-Funded Medical Plan Stabilization Reserve.  Mr. Pennington recapped some of the highlights from a previous memo.  He noted that the stabilization reserve is a specific part of the fund balance and is specifically mentioned in Board Policy 3320.  The board may want to keep this information in mind when considering options to balance the budget.  Mr. Pennington said Key Benefit Concepts consultants recommended in June 2008 that there be a reserve of 20-25 percent for medical plan stabilization.  Mr. Pennington said he has not used the reserve for anything in the past three to four years.  Currently there is $4.6 million in this reserve which is about 23 percent of the expected claim cost for the ensuing year.  He said this is an option the board may choose to look at depending on their comfort level with risk. 

            Comm. Murray requested that Board Policy 3320 be on the next board agenda.  He thought the board could use some of this reserve to help balance the budget.  He thought the reserve amount for claim stabilization is too high. 

Update and Consider Possible Action on 2011-12 Proposed District Reductions of Revenue Sources.  Mr. Pennington informed the board that the current budget short fall is $5.9 million including the $500,215 in capital improvement maintenance expenditure that was added back into the budget from last year.  He said this is assuming no tax levy and no use of Fund 10 balance.  President Sodemann asked what the difference would be for delaying or not delaying the capital improvement expenditure.  Mr. Pennington said he would send out information on that comparison.

What’s Right in Education/Dashboard.  Dr. Schulte noted that Kennedy Elementary School received recognition by the U.S. Department of Education and the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction as a “National Blue Ribbon School.”  Four other schools – Adams, Lincoln, Madison and TAGOS – were among 116 schools to receive the 2011-12 Wisconsin School of Recognition Award for their success in education students from low-income families.

Announcements.  Dr. Cargile reminded everyone that September 28 is Bullying Awareness Day and activities will be taking place in each school.  Dr. Schulte noted the Tree of Knowledge program set for September 28 at the Educational Services Center honoring staff with 30+ years of service to the district.  Comm. Dommershausen said the first Community Conversations in Excellence open public forum will be held from 9-11 a.m. on September 29 in the small auditorium at Craig High School.

Future Board Agenda Items (summary of Board requests).  Comm. D. Severson requested actual enrollment numbers for the past several years.  Comm. Murray asked that Board Policy 3320 be placed on the October 11, 2011 board agenda.  Also requested was discussion on a survey or poll regarding raising taxes.  Comm. Stottler requested information on comparative information technology and administrative salaries.  Comm. Murray requested an update to the board on the work of the Insurance Learning Committee.

The board may consider a motion to meet in closed session to consider matters previously discussed at a closed session earlier in the evening.  The grounds for meeting in closed session and the subject of the closed session, if such a motion is made, may be as follows:  a.  §19.85(1)(g) to confer with legal counsel who is rendering oral or written advice with respect to pending litigation with Brandon Keirns; and b.  §19.85(1)(c) regarding annual evaluation of the Superintendent based on the 2010-11 LEM (Leadership Evaluation Measurement Tool).  Comm. Feldt moved, seconded by Comm. Stottler, to go back into closed session.  The motion carried on an 8-0 vote with Comms. Dommershausen, Feldt, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sodemann and Stottler voting in the affirmative.

            Comm. Feldt moved, seconded by Comm. D. Severson, to adjourn the closed session.  The motion carried on an 8-0 vote with Comms. Dommershausen, Feldt, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sodemann and Stottler voting in the affirmative.

Adjournment  Comm. Stottler moved, seconded by Comm. P. Severson, to adjourn at 9:32 p.m.  The motion carried on an 8-0 vote.

________________________________

Nancy M. Hewes, Assistant Board Clerk

Janesville Board of Education

Janesville Board of Education Meeting

Educational Services Center

September 13, 2011

6:30 p.m.

Commissioners present:  Ardrey, Dommershausen, Feldt, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sodemann and Stottler.

President Sodemann called the regular meeting to order which was duly noticed on September 9, 2011 through posting and notification of the press in accordance with Wisconsin §19.84.

Jamie Lilburn, Parker High School student, led the Pledge of Allegiance.

Safety Message.  Dr. Cargile said September is the month in which 90 percent of elementary aides and 80 percent of elementary teachers are involved in incidents of being hit, bitten, scratched, slapped or kicked by students.  Dr. Cargile said information has been shared with principals and staff trained to deal with non-violent crisis intervention situations.  These steps align with the strategic plan to address health and safety and decrease the overall number of accidents.

Citizen Comments.  David DiStefano, 1614 Heather Ct., addressed the insurance consultant decision the board will be making later in the agenda.  He said there were concerns that Tricor is not a local company.  He said they are; they own their own building in Janesville.  Mr. DiStefano said they offer walk-up service to clients.  They are members of Forward Janesville and staff volunteer to donate time with community organizations.  He said both partners live in the school district.  Mr. DiStefano said he is a third generation insurance professional in Janesville.  Tricor has good connections with both Mercy and Dean.  He noted that the Tricor bid was 22.6 percent lower than the competition.  Tricor does reduce insurance costs for their clients.

            Erika Schultz, 652 Sussex Dr., said she was speaking on behalf of every parent and community member who could not attend tonight’s meeting or be at the September 6, 2011 public hearing on the possible closing of an elementary school.  She asked the board not to make a decision on this matter tonight.

            David Parr, 1234 Marquette St., thanked President Sodemann for coming to the Janesville Education Association Representative Assembly meeting on September 12, 2011 and answering questions from the group.  Comm. Feldt suggested that the JEA periodically invite board members to their meetings as a means of keeping the lines of communication open.  Dr. Parr said he would take that suggestion to the JEA.

            Bill Boyd, N497 Blackhawk Bluff Dr., Milton, said he was a lifelong resident of Janesville and owns his own business, Boyd Consulting.  Mr. Boyd said he grew up in Janesville and he and his wife have made a commitment to Janesville.  They have closed their agencies in Milwaukee and Elgin, IL.  They are very involved in volunteer and service organizations in Janesville.

Student Presenters to the Board.  Karina Triller, Craig High School presenter, said about 1,300 students used the new online registration this fall.  Students are involved in fall sports.  Back to School Night was held last evening.  Upcoming events are homecoming activities and the football game and dance.  AP Government students and parents will meet on September 26 to plan their Washington Seminar trip.  A Community Conversations in Excellence session will be held at 9 a.m. on September 29 in the small auditorium to give students and community members an opportunity to talk with board members.  Craig PTO will meet on October 6 at 8:30 a.m.

            Jamie Lilburn, Parker High School presenter, said students are planning homecoming activities.  A parade and football game is set for October 14 and the dance for October 15.  The theme will be “Treasure Island.”  Auditions will be held tomorrow for the November musical “Phantom of the Opera.”  Back to School Night is scheduled for September 19.  Jamie said Parker students participated in trips to France and Argentina over the summer.  There are 11 Argentinean students attending Parker for the next couple of weeks.  Jamie said sports and clubs are off to a good start.  An activity fair was held to acquaint students with the opportunities available to them.  She said the football team is currently 4-0.

            President Sodemann introduced Hailie Hamilton, student representative to the board on behalf of the four charter schools.

Consider Approval of Consent Agenda  a.  Approve minutes of August 22, 2011 regular board meeting;  b.  Resignations/Retirements.  Chairperson Sodemann noted the teaching position resignations of Maegan Heindel, effective August 24, 2011; Jennifer Schlitz, effective August 5, 2011; Jordan Smith, effective August 23, 2011; and Jennifer Stoskopf, effective August 23, 2011.  c.  Appointments.  The teaching position appointments of Stacci Barganz, Tammy Berberich, Jill Casillas, Phillips DeRuntz, Lisa Eiche, Carrie Franson, Jadia Green, Nancy Johnson-Tourtouropoulos, Rebecca Lemke, William LeTourneau, Kimberly Lien, Kaitlyn Paquette and Jamie Saunders, all effective August 26, 2011; Lara Savage, effective August 29, 2011; Heidi Weisensel, effective August 30, 2011; Michele Attalla, effective September 6, 2011; Heidi Drebenstedt, effective September 12, 2011; and Adam Spaeth, effective September 1, 2011.   Comm. Stottler moved, seconded by Comm. Murray, to approve the consent agenda as presented.  The motion carried on a 9-0 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Feldt, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sodemann and Stottler voting in the affirmative. 

Discussion and Consider Approval of a Recommendation to Hire the District’s Insurance Consultant.  Dr. Schulte said she was recommending to the board that Boyd Consulting Group be hired as the district’s insurance consultant.  She said several excellent firms were interviewed.  The Insurance Learning Committee, which is advisory to the Superintendent, recommended Boyd Consulting because the district has had a long-standing relationship with them through district life insurance plans.  Dr. Schulte said they have a medical advisor on staff.  They will also provide a direct link on their Website for School District of Janesville employees.  Dr. Schulte said Boyd Consulting has guaranteed an annual fee of $34,900 with the option to end the relationship at any time.  Dr. Schulte said this is less than the district is currently paying the insurance consultant, but it is not the lowest bid.  She said expense has never been the only consideration when selecting a vendor.  The district has been satisfied with the service provided by Boyd Consulting over the past several years.  Comm. Stottler moved, seconded by Comm. Dommershausen, to approve the recommendation to hire Boyd Consulting Group as the district’s insurance consultant.  President Sodemann said he would not be voting because Mr. Boyd is a customer and consultant to his business.  Comm. D. Severson said he would not be voting because of business connections. 

            Comm. P. Severson moved to amend the motion to state that the insurance consulting contract with Boyd Consulting Group be reviewed after one year.  The amendment failed for lack of a second.

            Comm. P. Severson moved, seconded by Comm. Stottler, to amend the motion to state that the insurance consulting contract with Boyd Consulting Group will be reviewed after one year to see if the consultant is meeting the district’s needs. 

            Comm. Feldt asked if administration would have reviewed the contract after one year as a matter of course.  Dr. Schulte said yes as they would with any contract.  Comm. P. Severson asked how often the insurance consulting contract with M3 was reviewed.  Dr. Schulte said the contract with M3 was reviewed.  She said typically this item would not have come to the board for discussion or a decision.  She would have made the decision as Superintendent.  Dr. Schulte asked the board if they wanted to make this decision in the future or if they wanted to go back to the former process of having the Superintendent make the decision.  President Sodemann asked what the deciding factors are as to whether or not the board approves a contract.  Comm. Stottler referred to Board Policy 3510, Purchasing Authority.  The amendment carried on a 7-0-2 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Feldt, Hesselbacher, Murray, P. Severson and Stottler voting in the affirmative.  Comms. D. Severson and Sodemann abstained from voting. 

            The motion, as amended, to approve the recommendation to hire Boyd Consulting Group as the district’s insurance consultant with the contract to be reviewed after one year to see if the consultant is meeting the district’s carried on a 7-0-2 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Feldt, Hesselbacher, Murray, P. Severson and Stottler voting in the affirmative.  Comms. D. Severson and Sodemann abstained from voting. 

Finance/Buildings and Grounds Committee Report.  a.  Safety message.  Chairperson Ardrey thanked the board for including a safety message as an agenda item.

            b.  Comprehensive review of information gathered by the Boundary Lines Committee.  Chairperson Ardrey said the board received all of the information as part of the board packet.  He gave a brief history of the Boundary Lines Committee starting with its reactivation in April 2009.  In December 2009 eight community members were selected through an application process to serve on the committee.  The first meeting was held in February 2010.  Chairperson Ardrey stated that board members asked that the committee also look into the possibility of closing a school.  The Boundary Lines Committee first looked at the unbalanced enrollment at the middle schools.  In December 2010, the City of Janesville completed mapping where all of the 2009-10 students lived.  Then, the district found itself faced with a significant budget shortfall.  The focus of the committee’s analysis was on the use of elementary buildings.  The Boundary Lines Committee did a rough analysis for possible closure of Roosevelt and Wilson elementary schools with estimated cost savings of $500,000-$600,000.  Dispersing students from these two schools would cause overcrowding at other schools.  After a lengthy in-depth study of all elementary schools, the data revealed that Harrison, Jefferson and Kennedy elementary schools ranked as the top three schools for consideration of possible closure.   

            c.  Update on August 25, 2011 Boundary Lines Committee meeting and their recommendation.  On this date, the Boundary Lines Committee met and voted unanimously to recommend to the Finance/Buildings and Grounds Committee that the School District of Janesville not close any of the 12 elementary schools.  The estimated cost savings were $1.1 million on the high end for Harrison and $715,000 on the lower end for Jefferson.  The committee members felt it would cause too much upheaval for the community and students to close any school.  The Boundary Lines Committee recommendation was forwarded to the Finance/Buildings and Grounds Committee.

            d.  Update on September 6, 2011 public hearing on possible closure of an elementary school.  The 14 speakers at the public hearing all spoke in favor of keeping all of the elementary schools open.  Based on a question posed by Comm. D. Severson, the consensus of the speakers was that they would be willing to pay whatever it takes in taxes to keep their school open.  Comm. Feldt thanked Comm. Ardrey for heading up these committees.  Comm. Hesselbacher recognized Dr. Sperry and Tami Carlson for her work on dispersing the students.  Comm. Ardrey also thanked Ms. Hilliker for special education input, Keith Pennington for financial work, and Dave Leeder for his expertise in the maintenance area.  Comm. Stottler said she was still not sure how the Boundary Lines Committee selected Harrison, Jefferson and Kennedy.  She did not know why Jackson was not considered for closing.  She felt it was the board’s responsibility to look at every elementary school in the district.  She did not think it was the responsibility of the Boundary Lines Committee to be bringing forth any more recommendations.  Chairperson Ardrey said boundary lines were not looked at because about 40 percent of the students at any one building do not live in that attendance area.  Comm. Sodemann asked if the cost savings factored in rent for any of the charter schools that might be able to move into any of them.  Chairperson Ardrey said no. 

            e.  Discussion and consider approval of the Finance/Buildings and Grounds recommendation regarding the possible closure of an elementary school beginning with the 2012-13 school year.  The Finance/Buildings and Grounds Committee met on September 6, 2011 and moved the recommendation of the Boundary Lines Committee to the full board with no recommendation.  Comm. Ardrey moved, seconded by Comm. Feldt, to not close any elementary school building based on the recommendation of the Boundary Lines Committee.  Comm. D. Severson said he could consider not closing a school building based on giving consideration to a referendum to the public by the end of November 2011.  The referendum would ask two questions.  The first question would ask citizens how much they would be willing to have their taxes go up for the 2012-13 school year – zero, $200, $500 or $700.  The second question would be by how much the board should reduce the Fund 10 balance – zero, $2 million, $4 million, or $6 million.  Comm. D. Severson emphasized that the district was facing a deficit of approximately $9 million for the 2012-13 school year.  He said this was causing a lot of uncertainty for students, parents and staff.  He felt citizens were living in unprecedented times, and some unprecedented decisions need to be made.  The tax base in Janesville has been reduced.  Some citizens are saying raise taxes and some citizens are saying not to raise taxes.  Comm. D. Severson felt a referendum would give advice to the school board on these two topics.

            Comm. D. Severson moved to amend the motion by asking that the board postpone a decision on closing any school subject to a referendum to take place by the end of November 2011.  Comm. Feldt asked for a point of order.  He was not sure that issue or the questions for a referendum were germane to this agenda item. 

            Comm. D. Severson moved, seconded by Comm. Ardrey, to ask that the board postpone making a decision on the possible closure of an elementary school to the September 27, 2011 board meeting.  Comm. Ardrey said October 1, 2011 is the deadline for a board decision and this postponement falls within that timeframe.  The motion carried on a 9-0 vote.

            f.  Review of June 30, 2011 year end energy usage report.  Mr. Pennington said the fourth quarter 2010-11 report ending June 30, 2011 will be the last one the district will be receiving from North American Mechanical, Inc.  The district will now be generating these reports in-house.  Mr. Pennington said a 2010-11 board goal was to reduce natural gas (therms) and electrical usage (kilowatt hours) district wide by 5 percent over the previous year.  The district did not achieve these overall goals.  Electrical usage district wide was reduced by .7 percent from the prior year and natural gas usage increased by .8 percent district wide over the prior year.  Harrison and Kennedy reduced electrical usage by 4.35 percent and 5.9 percent, respectively.  Monroe decreased natural gas usage by 7.4 percent, Marshall by 5.5 percent, and Madison by 5.4 percent.  Mr. Pennington said the Focus on Energy audit showed areas where energy reductions could be made.  The total cost of natural gas and electricity for the district was down $203,000 over last fiscal year.  For 2011-12, decreasing water usage has been added to the utilities reduction board goal.

            Comm. Sodemann asked if energy saving measures could be replicated in other buildings.  Mr. Pennington said ideas have been shared between principals.  Comm. Ardrey said he was invited to talk to the student council at Monroe about how they could save energy.  Mr. Pennington said Focus on Energy provided the district with an initial energy audit but have some time limitations due to staffing.  Dr. Sperry noted all of the energy savings measures he has observed in the buildings.

            g.  Discussion and approval of probable revision to Board Policy 3320, General Fund Balance.  Mr. Pennington explained that there are two sections to this policy.  The second section tells the categories for the fund balance reserves.  This section has to change to be in compliance with the new Governmental Accounting Standards Board 54 ruling.  The three categories must be expanded to five.  Mr. Pennington said the changes will be brought to the Finance/Buildings and Grounds Committee meeting in October.  This was just advanced notice that changes will have to be made.

            h.  Discussion and approval of probable revision to Board Policy 3100 and Administrative Regulation 3100.1, Annual Operating Budget.  The Board Policy seems to be okay, but the Administrative Regulation may need to be changed.  The first point states that administration will present a budget calendar for board approval on or before December 15.  The second point states that a public hearing on the proposed budget will be held on or before October 1.  The third point sates that the tax levy shall be determined on or before the third Monday in October.  Mr. Pennington said the Finance/Buildings and Grounds Committee will look at re-writing the Administrative Regulation to make it more reflective of current practice.

            i.  Discussion and approval to set the public hearing on the 2011-12 proposed district budget for Tuesday, October 11, 2011.  Comm. Sodemann moved, seconded by Comm.  Stottler, to set the public hearing on the 2011-12 proposed district budget for Tuesday, October 11, 2011.  The motion carried on a 9-0 vote.

            j.  Future committee agenda items.  None from the board.

Continued Budget Discussion.  a.  Update on 2010-11 district budget.  Mr. Pennington said the actual budget was different than the budget projections thus causing a shift in the amounts expected to be received through equalization aid and property taxes for 2011-12. 

            b.  Update and consider possible action on 2011-12 proposed district budget.  The estimated projected maximum increase from last year’s property tax amount has been raised from $2.5 million to $3.4 million.  The amount of revenue estimated to be received as equalization aid has been decreased by the same amount.  This shifts $869,000 from the amount formerly expected to be received as equalization aid to the amount which could be received through property taxes.  The overall 2011-12 tax levy increase would be 9.96 percent compared to 3 percent for 2010-11.  The annual property tax increase for the average homeowner ($112,000) would be $89 if the board were to tax to the maximum allowable limit.  The district will not receive the final certified aid amounts from the Department of Public Instruction until October 15, 2011.  Mr. Pennington said the district dropped its estimate for health insurance claims from 15 percent to 12.5 percent.  The current budget gap is $5,684,0968; the maximum allowable tax levy is $3,406,676; leaving $2,277,392 left to balance the 2011-12 budget.  If the board chooses not to use any of the maximum allowable tax levy increase, and uses $3.4 million from the Fund 10 balance and $648,000 of TIF money, there will still be a $1.7 million deficit for 2011-12.  Comm. Feldt noted that by raising the overall tax levy by 5.21 percent, the $1.7 million deficit would be covered.  (A $46 increase in taxes for the average homeowner.)

            Comm. D. Severson said he would like to see an additional $500,000-$1,000,000 in cuts for 2011-12.  Comm. D. Severson moved, seconded by Comm. Feldt, to direct administration to come forward at the next board meeting with an additional $1 million in suggested cuts for the 2011-12 school year.  Comm. Feldt noted that Dr. Schulte has said she does not feel that any of the suggested cut areas she brought forward recently at the direction of the board would be in the best interest of the school district.  Comm. D. Severson stated that he did not think that any of the cuts he made over the last school year or any of the estimated $9 million for next year are in the best interests of students.  He suggested that administration look for savings in the insurance area.  Comm. Feldt suggested taking another look at cutting the school resource officers.  The motion failed on a 1-8 vote with Comm. D. Severson voting in the affirmative.  Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Feldt, Hesselbacher, Murray, P. Severson, Sodemann and Stottler voted in opposition.

            c.  Discussion and possible action on using unspent 2010-11 capital maintenance funds on the same items during 2011-12.  Mr. Pennington said $500,215 in capital maintenance funds were held back in 2010-11 so the budget would not be overspent with the understanding that this money be spent on the same items in 2011-12.  Comm. Stottler moved, seconded by Comm. Ardrey, to use the unspent 2010-11 capital maintenance funds of $500,215 to be performed in the 2011-12 school year.  Comm. P. Severson said this money is now residing in the Fund 10 balance and that fund would now be short this additional amount.  Comm. Stottler noted a list of items and thought these expenditures were important items and should be done.  She felt they should not have been taken off the 2010-11 budget.  The motion carried on a 6-3 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Feldt, Hesselbacher, Murray and Stottler voting in the affirmative.  Comms. D. Severson, P. Severson and Sodemann voted in opposition.

            d.  Preview of 2012-13 proposed district budget.  Mr. Pennington said the district would be looking at an increase in district salary/benefits of $4.2 million for 2012-13.  All other estimates would need to be determined after final 2011-12 decisions are made concerning fund balance usage, property tax levy, and budget cuts.  Comm. Sodemann asked where health insurance savings would come from.  Dr. Schulte said she did not see that any changes would be made until 2013-14 when the union contracts expire.  Mr. Pennington said it is anticipated that there will be a new $50/pupil adjustment for the property tax levy for the 2012-13 school year.  School districts could raise taxes by an additional amount of up to $50/student.  This could produce about $500,000 in levy for the School District of Janesville.  If the district does this and taxes to the maximum amount, it could get another $50/student in state equalization aid.  By doing both things, the district could get approximately $1 million in aid and tax levy.  The state has allocated $42.5 million for this program.  If this allocation is insufficient to make payments to all districts, only a pro-rated amount will be paid.

Discussion Regarding Possible Resolutions for 2012 WASB Delegate Assembly.  a.  Resolution to allow school districts to select to have their equalization aid paid in 10 installment payments without interest charges.  Comm. P. Severson noted that currently equalization aid is paid to districts quarterly by the state.  Districts do have the option to receive the payments in 10 installments, but they have to pay the interest that would have been earned by the state and that is difficult to calculate.  A 10-payment option would even out the high and low balances of the Fund 10 account.  This resolution might also eliminate the need for some districts to do short-term borrowing.  Comm. P. Severson moved, seconded by Comm. Feldt, to approve moving the resolution forward to WASB.  The motion carried on a 9-0 vote.

            b.  Resolution to add school districts as a donation item to Line 38 of the Wisconsin Form 1 tax return.  Comm. P. Severson said this resolution would allow taxpayers to add a district taxpayer number to the Wisconsin Form 1 tax return and designate a donation.  People who have moved away from their home community could donate as well as grandparents.  Comm. P. Severson moved, seconded by Comm. Dommershausen, to approve moving the resolution forward to WASB.  Comm. Felt thought this might be an administrative nightmare for the Department of Revenue.  He also thought the funds donated might be lost on administrative costs of the program and dissemination of the payments.  The motion carried on an 8-1 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sodemann and Stottler.  Comm. Feldt voted in opposition.

Announcements.  Dr. Schulte noted the September 23 Salsa and Other Colors Gala at Rotary Gardens in support of the Multicultural Teacher Opportunities Scholarship fund.  September 25 the “Save Janesville Schools” group will sponsor a spaghetti dinner at Craig High School.  Dr. Cargile noted the importance of Third Friday Count Day on Friday, September 16.

Future Board Agenda Items (summary of Board requests).  Comm. D. Severson asked for discussion regarding an advisory referendum on increased property tax amounts or use of Fund 10 balance.  Comm. Feldt suggested checking with attorney Moore if three choices are allowable.  He thought only yes and no questions were allowed on referendums. 

            Comm. Murray asked that the fund balance health reserve be listed as an item on the next board agenda.  A historical look at its purpose and is it being used for that purpose.

Adjournment.  Comm. Stottler moved, seconded by Comm. Hesselbacher, to adjourn at 9:30 p.m.  The motion carried on a 9-0 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Feldt, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sodemann and Stottler voting in the affirmative.

_________________________________

Nancy M. Hewes, Assistant Board Clerk

Janesville Board of Education

Janesville Board of Education Meeting

  Educational Services Center

     August 22, 2011

        6:33 p.m.

Commissioners present:  Dommershausen, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sodemann and Stottler.

Commissioners absent:  Ardrey and Feldt.

President Sodemann called the regular meeting to order which was duly noticed on August 19, 2011 through posting and notification of the press in accordance with Wisconsin §19.84.

President Sodemann led the Pledge of Allegiance.

Safety Message.  Dr. Cargile said September has historically been a month of high employee and student accidents.  A majority of the employee accidents come from the elementary school level.  As a part of the program to reduce accidents, safety messages will be sent to principals for sharing with employees and posters on slips, trips and falls will be posted in the schools.  The goal is to increase awareness of safety for the benefit of employees and students.

What’s Right in Education:  Fact-based Decision Making.  Dr. Schulte said three years ago Quint Studer, CEO of the Studer Group, began the Journey of Excellence in Education with the School District of Janesville.  Mr. Studer reviewed the evidence-based leadership model.  Important components are leadership evaluation tools, staff development and training, “must haves” (consistent/hardwired behaviors), reward/recognition, performance feedback and standardization.  The district now measures parent satisfaction, staff satisfaction, student satisfaction (2011-12), support staff satisfaction (central office), student learning and leadership needs.  Mr. Studer said under an effective leader evaluation system, leaders role model what they want others to do.  An effective system clarifies expectations and sets priorities.  It provides objective versus subjective measurements and also provides transparency.  Professional development enhances communication skills and selection of talent.  It also involves performance feedback and leads to standardized techniques and systems.  Mr. Studer reviewed the progress the district has made from May 2008 to date with regard to parent and staff satisfaction surveys.  He also noted that based on ACT scores, Janesville is moving up in comparison with other surrounding school districts.  Student achievement in reading and math has also increased.  There has been a net increase in open enrollment.  This is important because these parents are making a conscious choice as to where they send their children to school.  Mr. Studer outlined some of the next steps as being continued board education and development, student feedback, continued leader and staff development, and increased student learning.  He felt the main functions of the school board were strategic direction of the organization, fiduciary responsibility of operations, hiring the right superintendent and implementing the right measurement system.

            President Sodemann introduced Sally Parks, the new Principal of Adams Elementary School.  Ms. Parks said she was honored to join the Janesville staff and looked forward to a great school year.

Citizen Comments.  Don Vesely, 2111 S. River Road, said his child attends Harrison through the school choice option.  He based this choice on research.  Mr. Vesely said he works in Madison and if any schools close, it will impact his life.  If Harrison is closed, his family will look at moving from Janesville.

            Heather DiStefano, 1614 Heather Ct., said she has school choiced her children to Harrison.  She has attended school board and Boundary Lines Committee meetings throughout the summer.  She did not feel that closing a school was a good way to lessen a budget shortfall.  As president of the Harrison PTO she has received many phone calls and emails from concerned parents.  Because of this, Harrison held its own listening session.  Ms. DiStefano distributed a list of concerns raised by Harrison parents.  She referenced Harrison and Kennedy’s high student test scores.  She also noted waiting lists for the before and after school (BASIC) childcare programs at Harrison and Monroe elementary schools.  Ms. DiStefano felt that when all was said and done, the district will realize minimal savings from closing a school.  She felt the Boundary Lines Committee should return to their task of re-drawing the boundary lines, reducing the size of the option areas and implementing school attendance pathways to achieve more evenly balance enrollments.  Ms. DiStefano felt the board would have to consider raising property taxes and/or enrollment fees to offset the anticipated $9 million shortfall for 2012-13.  She asked the board to strongly consider the long-term ramifications closing an elementary school would have on Janesville and the children.

            Liz McLevige, 2433 Greenwood Dr., said her children attend Kennedy.  She and her husband work in Illinois and could easily move away from Janesville.  She feels Kennedy is an overall great school and would be willing to pay more taxes to keep Kennedy open.  She was disappointed that only two school board members responded to her email.

            Cecelia Helou, 710 Princeton Ct., said she and her family moved to Janesville from Brazil in February 2010.  Her husband works in Beloit, but they chose to live in Janesville because of the high quality of the schools.  Her children attend Harrison.  She felt great schools attract people to Janesville and thought the two new hospitals may help draw more people to Janesville.  She could not see the logic in the possible closing of a school with one of the highest student achievement scores in the district. 

            Pablo Gallo Llorente, 710 Princeton Ct., said he also sent a letter to the school board members but only received one response.  Mr. Llorente referenced the economic impact of closing an elementary school.  He felt the district would lose revenue from the current 14 open enrollment students at Harrison, 11 at Kennedy and 2 from Jefferson.  He felt the district should get a specific all inclusive estimate of the cost savings of the possible closure of a school net of any repairs.  He strongly felt the March 2011 cost savings data should be updated for Harrison, Kennedy and Jefferson and made available to the parents.  Mr. Llorente said research indicates that closing a school results in a 10 percent decrease in property values.  This would result in lower revenue from property taxes and thus lower funding for schools.  He asked the board to consider the long-term impact of their decision.

            Claudia Klein, 3925 Wilshire Lane, said her area of concern was the culture of the school.  She acknowledged that it is difficult to measure the culture of a school.  Ms. Klein said she considers inclusion, competition and encouragement/friendliness to be part of the Harrison culture.  She felt it was the home and the school working together that helps the student be successful – not just the home environment.  She felt all district schools strive for an excellent education for all of its students.  She also felt there should be smaller class sizes for individual attention by the teachers.  All schools should recruit parents and community members to volunteer and assist in the classroom.  Ms. Klein suggested letting Harrison and other schools use extra space to house charter schools to avoid paying rent.  She also felt the district should “pick the low hanging fruit” -- sell unnecessary land, relocate the charter schools, consolidate positions and re-draw boundary lines before making the permanent decision to close a school.  Ms. Klein referenced a school closure guide of 10 large urban districts that were considering closing schools due to budget problems.

            Valerie Troxel, 1300 Terapin Trail, Milton, noted that Kennedy was nominated for the Blue Ribbon School Program based on high student performance or improved levels of achievement for disadvantaged students in reading and math.  The US Department of Education seeks to acknowledge schools that demonstrate best school leadership and practices.  One criteria is that 40 percent of the school population must come from disadvantaged backgrounds.  Ms. Troxel said 45 percent of the Kennedy students come from disadvantaged backgrounds.  The selected school must also meet Adequate Yearly Progress goals.  Ms. Troxel said student achievement was not listed in the media as one of the main criteria for the committee to consider.  She did not think closing one of the highest performing schools was a reasonable decision.  She said the high energy usage at Kennedy could be contributed to the fact that it is used well into the evening by many groups throughout the year.  She also said Kennedy was specifically built for students with disabilities in mind.  She told of specialty rooms.

            Amy Baumeister, 4505 Oldwyck Dr., said she has three children at Harrison.  She said schools are the hub of their communities and have an importance that goes beyond education.  She said businesses are more likely to move where there are good schools.  She asked that the board not close an elementary school – especially one on the east side.  She felt many of the open enrollment students would move back to Milton if a school was closed and the district would lose that revenue.  Ms. Baumeister said Harrison is a high performing school with parents actively involved in the PTO.  She was also worried about the impact a school closing would have on property values.  She also asked if the committee considered traffic issues if more children were to attend Monroe.  If it comes down to a financial decision, why is not every school in the district being considered for closure?  What will happen with the BASIC’s program?  She also asked why public input was not sought during the beginning phase of this process.  Does public opinion really count at this point in time?

            Traci Kaas, 714 Tudor Dr., felt closing Harrison would have a ripple effect throughout the district.  She felt the open enrollment students would return to their Milton schools and the district would lose that revenue.

            Suzanne Guilliom, 7639. US Hwy. 14 W., said she felt very strongly about having a strong school system.  She lives in Evansville and open enrolls her children at Jefferson.  She felt many children in the district are dealing with a variety of family stresses and hardships.  She said with the loss of industry in Janesville, the board is being asked to do more with less.  Staff has been laid off.  Many families are struggling economically and emotionally and closing Jefferson would just add to their worries.  She felt closing any school in Janesville would jeopardize the stability of children.  She did appreciate the board’s efforts to minimize the impact of the district’s financial problems on both students and staff.

Consider Approval of Consent Agenda.  Comm. D. Severson asked to have item f. removed.  Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. P. Severson, to:  a.  approve and place on file the minutes of the August 9, 2011 regular board meeting and the August 15, 2011 Special Board meeting;  b. Resignations/Retirements.  The teaching position resignations of Laurie Bauer, effective August 8, 2011; Carlin Harding, effective August 9, 2011; Sarah Wiski, effective August 15, 2011; Nichole Erickson, effective August 16, 2011; Linn Weilbrenner, effective August 23, 2011; Amanda Auger, effective August 18, 2011; and Lisa Amacher, effective August 19, 2011;  and c.  Appointments.  Carolyn Wyatt, Krysta Bahr, Tarah Hofer, Michael Hook and Heidi Hutington-Enright, all effective August 26, 2011; d.  Approve appointment of Jim Degan as Manager of Food and Nutrition Services.  e.  Approve appointment of Julie DeCook as Coordinator of Title Programs.  Comm. P. Severson requested a document showing the years of experience for teaching positions over the past five years.  The motion carried on a 7-0 vote with Comms. Dommershausen, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson Sodemann and Stottler voting in the affirmative. 

            f.  Second reading of revised Board Policy 8390, Student Representatives to the Board.  Comm. D. Severson said he could not support this revised board policy.  He stated that the board members served as elected representatives of eligible district voters.  He found it troubling that three high school students would now be able to participate in discussion with the board.  He felt electors did not have that same opportunity but they are the ones paying property taxes.  He said the union officials, who represent 80 percent of the district’s budget, are not allowed the same access to discussion with the board as the student representatives will have.  He felt the board should listen to what students have to say, but not in this manner.  He asked board members to reconsider this revised board policy. 

            Comm. Stottler said she would like to see this new policy have a chance.  She suggested that this board policy have a scheduled review after a short period of time.

            Comm. Dommershausen said he recently learned at a leadership conference that the School District of Janesville is behind the curve in listening to student representatives to the board.  He felt it was important to hear from students.  He said the student representatives were elected by their peers.

            Comm. Hesselbacher said she suggested in committee that this policy be reviewed at the end of the school year.

            Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. Dommershausen, to approve the second reading of revised Board Policy 8390, Student Representatives to the Board.  The motion carried on a 5-2 vote with Comms. Dommershausen, Hesselbacher, Murray, P. Severson and Stottler voting in the affirmative.  Comms. D. Severson and Sodemann voted in opposition.

Update and Consider Possible Action on 2011-12 Proposed District Budget Reductions or Revenue Sources.  Mr. Pennington said he was giving an unaudited 2010-11 financial statement update.  He will not receive the final audited reports until late October.  He said if everything remains the same, for 2010-11 the district would gain $975,000 most of which has already been assigned and recommended for use in 2011-12.  The district was notified in June 2011 that it would be receiving $648,000 in TIF proceeds.  Mr. Pennington said one of the large outstanding items remaining is the insurance claims incurred but not yet paid.  He said the district will determine an amount for this item at the end of August.  For the 2009-10 school year, the insurance adjustment was a negative $1.7 million, but there was a budget gain of $1.6 million so the two items cancelled out each other.  Mr. Pennington noted that in 2010-11 the district received an additional $550,000 in Medicaid payments as a one-time catch up on claims for 2008, 2009, 2010 after claims had been reviewed by a new state agency.  There was also a net open enrollment budget gain of $275,000 for 2010-11.  There was also a budgeting error of $430,000.  He said the June 30, 2011 fiscal year-end insurance adjustment would be about $1.1 million.  Mr. Pennington said $500,000 in capital maintenance items and $200,000 in supplies for the 2010-11 fiscal year had been deferred until the year end insurance claim amount was more solidified.  His recommendation was to carry forward these items now that he feels the district did not overspend the 2010-11 budget.  Comm. Stottler asked that the maintenance items be given consideration.  Mr. Pennington said the money would be put toward the projects that had been deferred.  He explained that July 1 to June 30 is the district budget fiscal year.  September 1 to August 31 is the insurance fiscal year.  President Sodemann requested a 10-year history of the estimated insurance costs versus what was actually paid out.

            Dr. Schulte said the board asked for a prioritized list of additional cuts totaling $2.1 million.  She provided them with a comprehensive list of areas that could still be cut for the 2011-12 school year.  She tried to show what areas would look like if a range of cuts were made.  Dr. Schulte said she also noted the estimated $9 million deficit for the 2012-13 school year ($5 million increase in wages/benefits plus $4 million of the designated fund balance for 2011-12).  She reminded board members that the staffing work for the 2012-13 school year begins in October. 

            Comm. D. Severson said he looked at Dr. Schulte’s list through the eyes of a taxpayer.  He said the list totaled about $17 million.  He felt the board could cut $1 million plus from this list.  He would continue to push for administration to look for further cuts. 

            Comm. Stottler said that Dr. Schulte noted in her memo that further reductions would significantly impact what goes on in the classroom.  She thought the board really needs to look at what the district is offering by mandate versus having courageous conversations about how to best serve students efficiently.  Comm. Stottler felt the board needed to look for some more cuts.  She also felt that the board may have to raise taxes some.  She did not want to use any of the Fund 10 balance.  She also thought 2012-13 should also be taken into account.  She felt she needed more detail.

            Comm. Murray said he was not in favor of any more cuts.  He felt the board had to reach a balance between how much to increase taxes and how much should be used from the Fund 10 balance. 

            Comm. Dommershausen said he would vote no on anything that does not take 2012-13 and 2013-14 into account.  He suggested scheduling a board meeting dedicated to just budget discussion. 

            Comm. Hesselbacher felt the board should use the tool given to them by the state – raise taxes to the maximum allowable limit.  She is not in favor of any further cuts.  People will move to Janesville if the school system is strong and is offering the product they want.

            President Sodemann said he viewed raising taxes and use of Fund 10 as basically coming from the same source – the taxpayers.

            Dr. Schulte said a total of 68 teachers were cut.  There were 110 full time equivalency (FTE) positions cut across the entire district for 2011-12. 

            Dr. Sperry gave a staffing plan update.  He said there are currently 15 hot spots (down from 19 originally) related to teacher/pupil ratios.  The three kindergarten hot spots concern him the most.  He said the board approved three FTE contingencies in the 2011-12 staffing plan.  The $180,000 must also cover any additional special area teachers that might be needed – music, art and physical education.  He said the Third Friday Count is September 16.

Consider Approval of Resolution for 2012 WASB Delegate Assembly.  Resolution Due to WASB by September 15, 2011.  President Sodemann said he had received no resolutions to date.  Comm. Stottler asked if the Personnel/Policy/Legislative/Curriculum (PPLC) Committee was the correct place to initiate a resolution in opposition to the $925,940 the Milwaukee Charter Program will receive in state aid for the 2011-12 school year.  Chairperson Hesselbacher said the PPLC Committee would probably not meet again until September 20.

Announcements.  Comm. Murray said the Boundary Lines Committee would meet at 6:30 p.m. on August 25 in the small auditorium at Craig High School.  The Finance/Buildings and Grounds Committee will meet on September 6, 2011.

Future Board Agenda Items (summary of Board requests).  President Sodemann requested a 10 year history of what amount was budgeted for insurance claims versus what was actually expended (including premium holidays and other settlements).  Comm. P. Severson asked for a information showing teacher experience level for the past five years at the end of first semester and also at year end.  President Sodemann asked for an estimate of insurance cost savings that might be gained from changes to the health insurance plan during the brief period for re-opening union contracts.  Comm. Stottler asked that an assessment of the vacant property that the district owns be placed on the upcoming Finance/Buildings and Grounds agenda. 

Adjournment  Comm. Stottler moved, seconded by Comm. D. Severson, to adjourn at 9:40 p.m.  The motion carried on a 7-0 vote.

________________________________

Nancy M. Hewes, Assistant Board Clerk

Janesville Board of Education

Janesville Board of Education Meeting

Educational Services Center

August 9, 2011

6:30 p.m.

Commissioners present:  Ardrey Dommershausen, Feldt, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sodemann and Stottler.

President Sodemann called the regular meeting to order which was duly noticed on August 5, 2011 through posting and notification of the press in accordance with Wisconsin §19.84.

The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.

Board Recognition.  Kate Bennett, stated that Senator Cullen, a former board member, had set up a foundation for the 2011 Summer Cullen Government Internship Program.  She said Greta Becker from Craig interned for Senator Jim Holperin.  Nick Gorman, also from Craig, interned for Senator Dale Schultz.  Parker student Ann Armstrong, interned for Representative Andy Jorgensen.  Aaron Rohm from Parker interned with freshmen Representatives Evan Wynn, Joe Knilans and Amy Loudenbeck.  Ms. Bennett said the students had the opportunity to see city and county government as well as state government in action.  The students spent six weeks in this program.  Van Galder Bus Company provided transportation to Madison for the students.  Ms. Bennett said the students were unable to be present due to prior commitments.  She thanked the board for their continued support of this program.

Safety Message.  Dr. Cargile said accidents and injuries often happen when people are willing to take unnecessary risks in their work environment.  Research shows that 85 percent of all accidents are the result of unsafe acts, not unsafe conditions.  If district employees follow three safety rules, 50 percent of employee accidents can be prevented.  One. keep floors clean of moisture and debris.  Two, use proper lifting techniques.  Three, be safe on stairs by always using three points of contact and walk slowly.

Citizen Comments.  John Lader, 3909 Wyoming Ct., thanked the board for their dedication to public service.  In reference to Comm. Hesselbacher’s article in The Janesville Gazette, he said the Qualified Economic Offer (QEO) granted teachers a minimum 3.8 increase in wages and benefits.  It was neither a cap nor a maximum amount as the article implied.  He said many districts have been able to renegotiate contracts with their teachers’ union to include minimal payments to the Wisconsin Retirement System and health insurance premiums.  Janesville and Milwaukee are the exceptions.  Mr. Lader felt that the teachers have not had to bear the increased contributions burden alone.  He felt the private sector taxpayers have been bearing the burden.  He told of how the school portion of his property tax bill has gone up in comparison with other taxing units.

            Lon Coplien, 1620 N. Little Ct., did not think the economic times are getting any better.  He hoped the Janesville Education Association would re-open their contract.

Consider Approval of Consent Agenda  President Sodemann asked to have item g. removed.  a.  Approve minutes of July 26, 2011 regular board meeting;  b.  Receive and File Fund Summary Report.  Revenues in the aggregate for July 2011 were $43,630 and aggregate expenditures were $2,356,581.  c.  Resignations/Retirements.  Chairperson Sodemann noted the support position retirement of Susan Vinson, effective August 1, 2011.  He also noted the teaching position resignations of Megan Allen, effective July 28, 2011; Mary Farrell and Lisa Stanton, effective July 29, 2011; Michelle Olson, effective August 5, 2011; and Ashley Gossett, effective August 8, 2011.  d.  Appointments.  The teaching position appointments of Tyler Bakken, Lauren Bolinski, Melissa Hayes, Michael Lloyd, Laura Mattison, Kristina Post, Shara Ressler, Rebecca Schleppenbach, Jason Siegler, Jordan Smith, Jenna Sturtz, Amy DeGarmo, Liz Denter, Shelly Frank, Albert Gonzalez, Scott Gudgel, Jamie Hallen, Jenny Sikora and Xiaoyang Wang, all effective August 26, 2011.  e.  Approve interim Coordinator of Assessment Amy Sheridan;  f.  Accept Children at Risk of Not Graduating from High School Plan;  h.  Second reading of revised Board Policy 8640, Board Members Request for Information;  i.  Approve request to grant an exception to Board Policy 6462 and Administrative Regulation 6462.1, Admission of Foreign Exchange Students, for an additional student at Parker High School – a student from Colombia.  Comm. Feldt moved, seconded by Comm. Murray, to approve the consent agenda as presented with the exception of item g.  The motion carried on a 9-0 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Feldt, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sodemann and Stottler voting in the affirmative.  g.  Approve 2011-12 Federal Elementary and Secondary Education (ESEA) allocation in the amount of $2,608,345.  President Sodemann asked how the ESEA amount compared to prior years.  Dr. Ehrhardt said it is an increase of $471,742 because the poverty rate of the district has increased.  Comm. Sodemann moved, seconded by Comm. P. Severson, to approve item g.  The motion carried on a 9-0 vote.

Annual Report on Emergency Nursing Services.  Mat Haeger, noted that the district must provide emergency nursing services as required by one of the 20 state standards from the Department of Public Instruction.  The focus of emergency nursing services is to have policies and procedures in place to deal with accidental injury, illness and the administration of medications in the schools.  Mr. Haeger said Dr. Mark Goelzer has served as the district’s emergency nursing services medical advisor for 28 years.  Mr. Haeger highlighted several areas of the report.  The number of student accident reports has increased (18%) over last year, but total student accidents are still below the five-year rolling average.  The greatest numbers of accidents occur at the middle school level.  Middle school student accidents are up 50% over last year.  The overall district rate is up 5% from last school year.  The most frequent time for student accidents is over the noon hour with the most frequent day being Friday.  Slips, trips and falls continue to be the most frequent type of student accident for the fifth consecutive year.  Mr. Haeger said a 911 emergency call had to be made for 27 students which is the same number as the previous year.

            Mr. Haeger said each school has a first responder team of individuals Red Cross certified in AED/ CPR and first aid.  Recommendations include regularly sending safety messages to each school that can be shared with staff and students.  Monitoring for unsafe play areas and restricting student access.  Increase to 75% the number of employees who are certified in CPR, AED and first aid.  Remind students about proper safety procedures when using stairs.  Comm. Hesselbacher asked why the middle school student accident rate was so high.  Mr. Haeger said with the exception of the past two years, the elementary student accident rate had been the highest. 

Finance/Buildings and Grounds Committee Report.  a.  Review of Kennedy Elementary School Focus on Energy audit results.  Mr. Pennington said Mr. Eichman reviewed a memo giving specific recommendations for the items listed on the Focus on Energy audit report for Kennedy.  Lighting throughout the building is the focus for the medium priority items in the audit report.

            b.  Consider approval of recommendations regarding Kennedy energy items.  Mr. Pennington did not feel that the committee or board had to approve any recommendations because they are included in the overall proposed district maintenance budget and/or long-range maintenance plan. 

            c.  Review of Lincoln Elementary School Focus on Energy audit results and tour of Lincoln.  Mr. Pennington said Mr. Eichman also reviewed his memo giving specific recommendations for the items listed on the Focus on Energy audit report for Lincoln.  Mr. Eichman and Mr. Leeder also provided committee members with a building tour of Lincoln, including the mechanical systems. 

            d.  Wrap-up report on installation of sound barrier at Craig High School.  Mr. Pennington said the committee reviewed Mr. Eichman’s final report on the sound barrier wall along with pictures.  The board had approved up to $145,000 for this project and it came in under budget.  Mr. Pennington said committee members asked that a follow-up letter be sent to Craig neighbors for their reaction.

            e.  Update on Boundary Lines Committee.  Chairperson Ardrey said this committee will be meeting tomorrow.  He said they would be looking for a written assessment by one or two commercial realtors for Harrison, Jefferson and Kennedy with regard to any potential resale value.  Chairperson Ardrey said the committee would also be looking at scenarios involved in the reallocation of students from the three schools.  The costs involved still need to be determined.  Chairperson Ardrey said the committee would also be looking at the mechanical systems of all three buildings.  He said most of the main mechanical systems are original equipment in all three buildings.  He did see three different, unique roof designs at Jefferson.  The district has already made some of the changes suggested by Focus on Energy at Kennedy and should reap some energy cost savings next year.  Chairperson Ardrey asked board members to let him know if there is any other information they would like the committee to gather.  His plan is to present all of the information to the board for discussion at the first board meeting in September.

            President Sodemann asked if the board should recommend closing a school, might a charter school be moved into that building to save rental costs.  Chairperson Ardrey said the Boundary Lines Committee had a verbal report that there is not much commercial value to any of the three schools with the possible exception of Kennedy, particularly other than some type of school.  He said it would be a reasonable expectation that a closed building would not be re- used.  He said the flexibility of the open pod design of Harrison makes it most suitable for repurposing with Kennedy being next.  If any building was going to be used for another purpose, further study would need to be done with regard to the cost of any needed restructuring.

            f.  Discussion of 2011-12 budget preparation process.  Mr. Pennington said this was just an informational update to the committee. 

            g.  Continuation of Other Post-Employment Benefit (OPEB) actuarial valuation discussion.  Mr. Pennington said he had prepared a memo with a number of questions and answers that he felt were important pieces of background information for the committee members to understand.  He said this was in preparation for further in-depth discussion on addressing the OPEB liability. 

            h.  Discussion and consider approval of a recommendation to hire the district’s insurance consultant.  Chairperson Ardrey said Ms. Tullar provided information and background on the district’s current insurance consultant – M3.  Comms. Murray and Dommershausen shared their interaction with the Insurance Learning Committee.  Chairperson Ardrey said the initial recommendation of the Insurance Learning Committee for an insurance consultant was changed after some concerns were raised.  It was the recommendation of the Finance/Buildings and Grounds Committee that the entire Insurance Learning Committee meet again.  Their recommendation would then be forwarded directly to the full board for approval.

Potential Update on Discussions Between Board President Sodemann and JEA President Parr Regarding Possible Re-opening of the 2009-2013 JEA Contract.  President Sodemann said Dr. Parr has been on vacation.  He hopes to meet with him in the near future.

Update and Consider Possible Action on 2011-12 Proposed District Budget Reductions or Revenue Sources.  Dr. Schulte said in response to the board’s request, she asked each of the cabinet members to provide a list of budget items than cannot be cut due to contractual or state statute requirements.  A second board request was to develop a prioritized list of an additional $2.1 million of budget reductions, including what will no longer be done.  Dr. Schulte said she felt she could not make any more suggestions on credible cuts and still run the district.  She said she brought the board over $10 million in cuts in late spring with the promise that she would continue to look for cuts. 

            Comm. Murray said he hears both sides from citizens – those who think the board needs to tax to the maximum allowable to cover the additional deficit, and those who say they cannot afford to pay any additional taxes.  He noted that for the 2011-12 school year most of the contracts have been signed and the teacher/pupil ratio has been raised.  He felt the board had made all the cuts they should for the 2011-12 school year.  Comm. Murray said he was considering splitting the difference by using more of the Fund 10 and also a partial tax levy to fill the $2.1 million budget gap.  He noted that the board would not get final figures regarding the amount of state aid until October 15, 2011 and must set the tax levy by the end of October.  He felt this has been a very stressful time for employees and it would be good to get school started.

            Comm. Feldt thought the board should wait to make a decision because there are still some unknowns.  Administration had been led to believe the district would get $2.8 million less in equalization aid and as of July 1, 2011 that has grown to $4.9 million less.  He felt the district might get more students or maybe the JEA would agree to re-open their contract.  He felt the board should wait until it gets more answers to those questions. 

            Comm. P. Severson said one of the board’s main jobs is to protect the financial health of the district.  He said he did not see the district recovering from the additional $2.1 million deficit.  Comm. P. Severson moved, seconded by Comm. Hesselbacher, to direct administration to work with the assumption that the 2011-12 tax levy be increased by $2.1 million.  Comm. P. Severson said one of his reasons for wanting to set this now is that if the district does realize other revenue sources, the tax levy could be lowered.  However, this gives administration a balanced budget.

            Comm. Dommershausen said he would like to wait a little longer.  He had some other ideas but needed to develop them further.  He would like the opportunity to talk with the union groups.  He would also like to get a more precise figure on insurance costs.  He also thought the board had to keep in mind the anticipated 2012-13 budget shortfall.

            Comm. P. Severson said he was not in favor of using any more of the Fund 10 balance because it would lead to short term borrowing and another deficit next year.  He felt the board needed to use the revenue source available and that is the taxing authority granted by the state.

            Comm. D. Severson asked if there was a deadline with regard to re-opening the JEA contract.  President Sodemann said everything had to be completed by September 29.  Comm. D. Severson said if the JEA agreed to contribute the 5.8 percent to their Wisconsin Retirement System, it would bring in revenues of $2.3 million.  He thought it was unfortunate that the JEA has not come forward to assist.  If the board passes the pending motion, he thought it would negate any need for President Sodemann to meet with JEA President Parr.  He thought the board cut a bad deal with the unions and is now dumping the problem onto the local property taxpayer.  Comm. D. Severson said he could not support any more tax increase.  He noted that average wages in the community have decreased 15-20 percent over the past few years.  He thought the community wants to have good schools but the reality is that the community does not have the money.  The thought the community had spoken to the board due to the fact that only $60,900 has been raised through the “Save Janesville Schools” drive.  Comm. D. Severson felt the board should look for additional cuts. 

            Comm. Feldt thought that if the board took action on the pending motion, it would take away any bargaining position the board may have.  He also agreed there was an informal referendum to the community with regard to asking for contributions to the “Save Janesville Schools” campaign.  He was afraid the board would now say we heard you, but we are going to force you to pay anyway by raising your taxes.  He restated his reasons for waiting.  He did not feel that waiting a month would change anything.

            Comm. Stottler said the board could continue to rail on the union about what they are not doing, set a high tax levy, take more money from Fund 10, look at more cuts, or a combination of all of these.  She said many people who own their homes are in jeopardy of losing them because they cannot pay the taxes.  Comm. Stottler said she had asked Dr. Schulte to provide a prioritized list of $2.1 million in cuts not because she was ready to make any motions, but because she needed to be able to tell the citizens what would no longer be offered.  She felt the district should have a three-year plan based on the assumption that the district will most likely be faced with a $9 million deficit next year.  She felt the board should have a session to lay out some of the options. 

            Comm. Dommershausen explained his approach to looking at having a balanced budget in three years.  It would include raising taxes, using some of the Fund 10 balance, and also asking the unions to contribute to WRS. 

            Comm. Murray asked if there was a downside to waiting until October 15.  Mr. Pennington said he could not think of any.  A public hearing will need to be held.  Dr. Schulte stated that any cuts to non-represented staff in schools would impact the scheduling structure.  Comm. Murray did not want to have to reduce staffing once the school year started.  Although he would rather use more Fund 10 money to minimize the tax impact, he said he would support Comm. P. Severson’s motion to ask the taxpayers to invest in the students of Janesville.  He felt there was no better investment than the education of our children. 

            Comm. D. Severson said he would not vote for any tax increase.  He felt the board could find additional cuts.  He thought that by waiting the board had a window of opportunity to have a conversation with the union president.  The Superintendent has already made $10 million in cuts, but he felt she may have to make more tough decisions on cuts.

            President Sodemann thought it was short sighted to blame the state for the School District of Janesville’s predicament.  He said many school districts have surpluses.  He said Janesville is in this spot because of past board decisions.  He felt the board should wait to make a decision.

            The motion failed on a 2-7 vote with Comms. P. Severson and Hesselbacher voting in the affirmative.  Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Feldt, Murray, D. Severson, Sodemann and Stottler voting in opposition.

Presentation of Next Steps in the School District of Janesville Strategic Plan.  Dr. Schulte said the board previously passed a new strategic plan.  She reviewed the action steps and the staff that have been assigned to oversee them at the present time.  Others will be assigned as the district moves forward with this plan.  Under the quality pillar, Dr. Ehrhardt has been assigned to adjust instruction to meet changes in district, state and national assessments of skills.  Mr. Berg will develop a plan for marketing and showcasing high performing students and staff.  Under service, Dr. Cargile and Ms. Hilliker will design and implement a grade 5-12 student satisfaction survey by the end of first semester 2012.  Dr. Ehrhardt will assess the possibility of offering more combined post secondary classes at the high schools.  Under people, cabinet members will work on identifying, retaining and growing high performers among all staff.  They will also engage in coaching middle performers and assisting low performers to change or exit.  Under the health and safety pillar, Dr. Cargile will continue to communicate safety messages at all meetings and in internal communications.  Student satisfaction measures and communication tools will be developed and implemented to promote best practices in health and safety.  In finance, Dr. Sperry will promote other avenues of funding such as open enrollment.  Under growth, Mr. Berg will be responsible for identifying a target audience and then focus advertising on that specific market.

Discussion and Consider Approval to Further Research Board Proposal on Adult Education During the School Day.  President Sodemann said this item was carried forward from the last board meeting.  President Sodemann said participants would only be allowed to take advantage of this if there is space.  A fee would be charged.  He said this proposal is just to study the issue.  Comm. Sodemann moved, seconded by Comm. Murray, to approve doing further research on the proposal to offer adult education during the school day.  Comm. P. Severson asked for a time frame.  President Sodemann said this is not a front burner item.  The legality of the proposal must be determined as the first step.  Comm. D. Severson asked if there has been any feedback from Blackhawk Technical College or UW-Rock County on this proposal.  The motion carried on a 6-3 vote with Comms. Dommershausen, Feldt, Hesselbacher, Murray, P. Severson and Sodemann voting in the affirmative.  Comms. Ardrey, D. Severson and Stottler voted in opposition.

First Reading of Revised Board Policy 8390, Student Representatives to the Board.  Comm. Hesselbacher said policy language was clarified at the committee level.  There will be one student representative and one alternate from Craig, one from Parker and one collectively from the charter schools to be selected by a democratic procedure.  Comm. Feldt moved, seconded by Comm. Stottler, to insert “of the student body” after democratic procedure in the Guidelines for Student Representatives section.  The motion carried on an 8-1 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Feldt, Hesselbacher, Murray, P. Severson, Sodemann and Stottler voting in the affirmative.  Comm. D. Severson voted in opposition.

Discussion Regarding Possible Resolutions for 2012 WASB Delegate Assembly.  Resolutions Due to WASB by September 15.  President Sodemann asked board members to submit any resolutions to him.

Announcements.  Dr. Schulte noted that the next board meeting will be on Monday, August 22, 2011.

Future Board Agenda Items (summary of Board requests).  Administration will check the validity of Comm. Dommershausen’s plan to have a balanced budget in three years. 

            Comm. Stottler moved, seconded by Comm. D. Severson, to request a specific list of potential legal cuts that could be made to be sent to the Finance/Buildings and Grounds prior to coming to the full board.  Comm. Stottler said she needed to be able to go to the community and explain what the district will no longer be able to offer students if the board makes additional cuts.  What that will look like and where the cuts will fall.  Comm. Murray suggested that the board wait.  The motion carried on an 8-1 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Feldt, Hesselbacher, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sodemann and Stottler voted in the affirmative.  Comm. Murray voted in opposition.

Adjournment.  Comm. D. Severson moved, seconded by Comm. Stottler, to adjourn at 8:50 p.m.  The motion carried on a 9-0 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Feldt, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sodemann and Stottler voting in the affirmative.

_________________________________

Nancy M. Hewes, Assistant Board Clerk

Janesville Board of Education

Special Janesville Board of Education Meeting

Educational Services Center

July 28, 2011

6:34 p.m.

Commissioners present:  Ardrey, Dommershausen, Hesselbacher, D. Severson, and Sodemann

Commissioners absent:  Feldt, Murray, P. Severson and Stottler.

President Sodemann called the special meeting to order which was duly noticed on July 27, 2011 through posting and notification of the press in accordance with Wisconsin §19.84.

Consider Approval of Administrative Recommendation of Adams Elementary School Principal.  Dr. Sperry said the Peer Interview team felt that Ms. Sally Parks was a very good match for Adams Elementary staff, students and parents.  He said the salary offer was based on the fact that Ms. Parks has experience as principal and has almost completed the requirements for a doctoral degree.  Comm. Dommershausen moved, seconded by Comm. Ardrey, to approve the administrative recommendation of Ms. Sally Parks as Principal of Adams Elementary School.  The motion carried on a 5-0 vote.

Adjournment  Comm. D. Severson moved, seconded by Comm. Hesselbacher, to adjourn at 6:40 p.m.  The motion carried on a 5-0 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Hesselbacher, D. Severson and Sodemann voting in the affirmative.

________________________________

Nancy M. Hewes, Assistant Board Clerk

Janesville Board of Education

Janesville Board of Education Meeting

   Educational Services Center

    July 26, 2011

     6:32 p.m.

Commissioners present:  Ardrey Dommershausen, Feldt, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sodemann and Stottler.

President Sodemann called the regular meeting to order which was duly noticed on July 22, 2011 through posting and notification of the press in accordance with Wisconsin §19.84.

President Sodemann led the Pledge of Allegiance.

Safety Message.  Dr. Cargile addressed lifting and handling objects safely.  She said lower back strain and pain is a common and costly employee accident in the district.  An action to reduce back strain is to minimize the need to carry an object manually.  Consider the distance the object needs to be moved and use a push cart or dolly or ask a co-worker for assistance.  Avoid lifting or carrying objects that are too heavy or bulky.  It is less stressful on the back to push something than to pull it.

Citizen Comments.  Bill McCoy, 1326 Putnam Ave., stated that citizens do not have any more money to pay for a tax levy increase.  He felt the district should let some more administrators and teachers go or cut their wages.  Mr. McCoy said he voted against construction of Kennedy Elementary and Marshall Middle School because he felt the district did not need them.

            Lon Coplien, 1620 N. Little Ct., said he received training through the U.S. Marine Corps where he learned ton serve people – not just take and take.  Mr. Coplien said he heard that the negotiations team could not take into consideration the economic times of the local community.  President Sodemann explained that under the previous governor, economic conditions could be taken as a factor, but not a primary factor, in an arbitration case.  Mr. Coplien felt cuts should be made at the top and work their way down.  He said his union opened their contract and took pay cuts without impacting the rest of the contract.  He felt teachers should do the same.  He asked about the Wisconsin Retirement System deficit.  President Sodemann said the $17 million obligation was taken care of with the issuance of bonds.  Mr. Coplien asked how the district got into this predicament.  Comm. Dommershausen said the purpose of the monthly listening sessions was to address such items. 

            Robert Hein, 2021 Bond Place, was concerned with what he has read in the paper about the school board considering a proposal to raise the school portion of property taxes by up to 7.5 percent.  He felt there were all kinds of places to make cuts to remedy the district’s budget problems.  Mr. Hein would like to see the board open the contract with the teachers’ union as has been done successfully by many teachers’ unions throughout the state.

            Ed Reich, 1240 Boynton Ct., addressed the board on health factors affecting student and teacher performance.  It is his opinion that many additives in medications and supplements are dangerous.  Micro silica particles can pass into the bloodstream through intestinal walls or the skin and can enter any cells of the body, including the brain.  Mr. Reich referenced a study which stated the bad effects of certain foods and food additives on the digestion and sleep of ADHD children.

Consider Approval of Consent Agenda.  Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. D. Severson, to:  a.  approve and place on file the minutes of the July 12, 2011 regular board meeting;  b. Resignations/Retirements.  The teaching position resignation of Kate Jensen, effective July 11, 2011;  and c.  Approval of the teaching position appointments of Zachary Dray, Rachel Ekblad and Abilio Montiero, all effective August 26, 2011.  The motion carried on a 9-0 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Feldt, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson Sodemann and Stottler voting in the affirmative. 

Personnel/Policy/Legislative/Curriculum Committee Report.  a.  Educational presentation:  Professional Learning Communities.  Chairperson Hesselbacher said Dr. Ehrhardt presented information on Professional Learning Communities that focus on ensuring that students learn, staff collaborates to optimize student learning and there is a focus on results.  The district has been divided into four Professional Learning Community groups.

            b.  Discussion regarding compensation for non-represented staff.  Chairperson Hesselbacher said the committee requested comparative information on other districts.  Administration will bring a recommendation to the August committee meeting for further discussion and possible approval.

            c.  Discussion and consider approval of revisions to Board Policy 8390, Student Representatives to the Board.  The committee recommended that there be a representative and an alternate from Craig High School, Parker High School and the charter schools collectively.  Chairperson Hesselbacher said this would give the student representatives the flexibility to attend as many board meetings as they can.  The student representatives would be seated at a designated table.  Comm. Feldt moved, seconded by Comm. Murray, to approve the revisions to Board Policy 8390, Student Representatives to the Board as presented.  Chairperson Hesselbacher explained that the students would be elected by a democratic process to be determined by each high school and the charter schools collectively.  Comm. Stottler noted that some of the charter schools enroll middle school students and some allow expelled students to enroll.  Chairperson Hesselbacher suggested that this policy be reviewed a year from now to see if any changes need to be made.  The motion carried on an 8-1 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Feldt, Hesselbacher, Murray, P. Severson, Sodemann and Stottler voting in the affirmative.  Comm. D. Severson voted in opposition. 

            d.  Preliminary discussion regarding employee incentive and evaluation plan.  Chairperson Hesselbacher said the consensus was that a committee should study teacher evaluation as to how to identify, measure, assess and evaluate teachers.  She said administration recommended that the district Supervision and Evaluation Committee, which is under the guidance of Dr. Ehrhardt, be utilized.  This group may be composed of teachers, administrators, and board members.  Chairperson Hesselbacher said the educational presentation for the August 16 Personnel/Policy/Legislative/Curriculum Committee meeting will describe the current supervision and evaluation model for teachers.  At some point in the future discussion will take place regarding incentives and evaluations for all employees. 

            e.  Discussion and consider approval to reactivate the District Supervision and Evaluation Committee to review the district’s current supervision and evaluation model.  Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. Feldt, to approve reactivation of the District Supervision and Evaluation Committee to review the district’s current supervision and evaluation model.  The motion carried on a 9-0 vote.

            f.  Discussion regarding pending legislation.  Chairperson Hesselbacher said this item was postponed due to the length of the meeting.

Finance/Buildings and Grounds Committee Report.  Chairperson Ardrey gave an update on the work of the Boundary Lines Committee since the last meeting on July 13, 2011.  He said several assignments were made for further data gathering on Kennedy, Harrison and Jefferson.  Chairperson Ardrey said he has toured Harrison and Jefferson elementary schools with Dave Leeder, Maintenance Supervisor, to look at the mechanical and control systems, roofs, lighting, windows, doors and overall environmental conditions of the building.  Chairperson Ardrey said the Boundary Lines Committee will also look at a population forecasting study done by a UW-Madison department to best determine future population density.  He said the committee was also looking at the degree of flexibility a building had for repurposing.  Tami Carlson, Administrative Services Secretary, is working on placement of students with regard to the possible closure of any one of the three schools recommended.  This will get to the next consideration of transportation costs.  The Boundary Lines Committee will next meet on August 10, 2011.  Chairperson Ardrey asked if there were any other particular data items that the board would like the committee to consider. 

            President Sodemann asked if a school were to be closed, how appropriate each school would be to being used to house one or more charter schools in order to save rental costs.  Chairperson Ardrey said that was part of his study in determining the flexibility of reconfiguring a school.  If the board decides to go in that direction, then the committee can look at the cost of relocating as the next step.  Comm. Hesselbacher asked about the cost of relocating teachers.  Dr. Sperry said his department is taking that into consideration.  Comm. Murray asked about the timeline.  Chairperson Ardrey said the Boundary Lines Committee would share their results with the Finance/Buildings and Grounds Committee at their first meeting in September.  Public input hearings would be held during September.  A decision is due from the board by October 1 so Dr. Sperry can start developing 2012-13 staffing plans.

What’s Right in Education/Dashboard.  Dr. Schulte noted the outstanding performance of the Summer School musical “Hairspray.”  This was a collaborative effort with students from surrounding Rock County school districts.  School social workers have raised $4,452 towards their goal of $5,000 for bus “Tokens for Teens.”  She also noted several special education area teachers who were recognized by parents.

Discussion and Consider Approval of Board of Education Goals for 2011-12.  Dr. Schulte recommended that three goals remain basically the same under the pillars of service, people and health/safety.  Dr. Schulte noted that under the service pillar, the parent satisfaction survey target mean rate score was 4.57 with a February 2011 result of 4.36.  The 2011-12 suggested goal is to raise it to 4.46 on the February 2012 parent survey.  Under the people pillar, the staff satisfaction survey target mean rate score was 4.0 with the May 2011 result of 3.86.  The 2011-12 suggested goal is to raise it to 4.06 on the May 2012 staff survey.  Under the health/safety pillar, the target was a 5 percent reduction in employee accidents over the previous year with a result of a 1.66 percent reduction.  The 2011-12 suggested goal remains as a decrease of 5 percent in total number of employee accidents over the previous year.  Comm. Ardrey asked if any systemic changes were put in place to achieve the reduction or was the reduction just happenstance.  Dr. Schulte said there has been staff safety training and safety messages.  Dr. Cargile said Mr. Haeger provides each principal with an accident report for their building.  He works with them on how safety can be improved. 

            The quality pillar focuses on raising the district’s WKCE scores in reading and math.  Dr. Schulte said she would like to look at raising disaggregated scores for Hispanic and Black students by the 2012-13 school year (two-year goal).  She would like to raise WKCE district reading scores for Hispanic students from 79 percent to 81 percent.  She would also like to raise WKCE district reading scores for Black students from 75 percent to 77 percent.  She suggested raising the WKCE district math scores for Hispanic students from 75 percent to 77 percent.  She suggested raising the WKCE district math scores for Black students from 63 percent to 65 percent.  Dr. Schulte felt that the overall district score would increase along with the increased focus on these groups.  The district exceeded raising the overall reading score target of 84 percent with a result of 85 percent.  The district math score target of 80 percent was met.  Comm. Feldt asked if the district had the ability to look at academic growth as well as WKCE proficiency.  Dr. Schulte said the district can look at academic growth through the Measures of Academic Progress (MAP) test and also common assessments.  She has used the WKCE because it is a comparable with other school districts.  She said principals use academic growth measurements on their leadership evaluation measurement goals.  Comm. Stottler said she felt both able learners and struggling students receive attention and did not want students in the middle to get lost.  She has long proposed that each student have an individual learning plan to map their progress.  Comm. P. Severson felt the board should keep the overall goals and also add the sub-goals for specific sets of students.  Dr. Schulte said she would agree with that suggestion.

            The finance pillar goal is to maintain annual operating expenses at or below budget.  Dr. Schulte said it is a state requirement for the school district to have a balanced budget.  A second goal under the finance pillar is to reduce energy usage by 5 percent over the previous year.  Dr. Schulte suggested adding water usage to measurements for kilowatts and therms for 2011-12.  Comm. P. Severson felt it was important to keep the budget goal as the board goals cascade down to the superintendent’s LEM and then the principal’s LEMS.  Principals do not fall under the state requirement to maintain a balanced budget.  Comm. Feldt thought the district should have a five-year district capital improvement plan broken down by building.  He felt it would be an important financial planning document for the board and also help educate the public on what is on the docket for the next five years.  He realized it would be a big task to create it, but once created it could be amended each year.  He did not know if it should be a board goal or a directive to administration.

            The growth goal addresses increasing the net open enrollment gain/loss by 10 percent.  The 2010-11 result was a 17 percent increase.  Dr. Schulte suggested the 2011-12 goal of increasing the net open enrollment gain/loss by 15 percent and increasing the net gain/loss by 15 percent of the number of students enrolled in the Stateline Career and Technical Education Academy (SCTEA).  Comm. P. Severson thought the Janesville Virtual Academy should make surrounding districts aware of what can be offered to their students.  Comm. Stottler asked about the possibility of using student survey data for teachers and staff to improve.  She also asked how the board could better educate the public.  Dr. Schulte said student surveys were part of the strategic plan action steps that she would discuss in further detail at the next board meeting.  Dr. Schulte did not have a suggestion on how the district would measure communication skills with the public in the area of finance.

            Comm. D. Severson suggested that the board vote on each individual goal.  President Sodemann noted the suggested 2011-12 SERVICE GOAL to raise the overall parent satisfaction score from the February 2011 mean rate of 4.36 to 4.46 in February 2012.  Comm. Stottler moved, seconded by Comm. Murray, to approve the 2011-12 service goal to raise the overall parent satisfaction score from the February 2011 mean rate of 4.36 to 4.46 in February 2012.  The motion carried on a 9-0 vote.

            President Sodemann noted the suggested 2011-12 QUALITY GOAL to raise the WKCE district reading score for Hispanic students from 79 percent to 81 percent and for Black students from 75 percent to 77 percent by 2012-13 (a two-year goal).  Also the 2011-12 suggested goal to raise the WKCE district math score for Hispanic students from 75 percent to 77 percent and for Black students from 63 percent to 65 percent by 2012-13 (a two-year goal).  Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. Feldt, to approve the 2011-12 quality goal as presented. 

            Comm. P. Severson moved, seconded by Comm. Ardrey, to amend the motion to add the continuation of overall district goals of raising the WKCE district reading target score to 86 percent and the WKCE district math target score to 81 percent for the 2011-12 school year.  The amendment carried on a 9-0 vote.

            The motion, as amended, to raise the WKCE district reading target score to 86 percent and the WKCE district math target score to 81 percent for the 2011-12 school year and adding the goals of raising the WKCE district reading score for Hispanic students from 79 percent to 81 percent and for Black students from 75 percent to 77 percent by 2012-13 (a two-year goal).  Also the 2011-12 suggested goal to raise the WKCE district math scores for Hispanic students from 75 percent to 77 percent and for Black students from 63 percent to 65 percent by 2012-13 (a two-year goal).  The amended motion carried on a 9-0 vote.

            President Sodemann noted the suggested 2011-12 PEOPLE GOAL to raise the overall staff satisfaction score from the current mean rate of 3.86 in May 2011 to 4.06 in May 2012.  Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. Hesselbacher, to approve the 2011-12 people goal to raise the overall staff satisfaction score from the current mean rate of 3.86 in May 2011 to 4.06 in May 2012.  The motion carried on a 9-0 vote.

            President Sodemann noted the suggested 2011-12 FINANCE GOAL to decrease energy and water usage by 5 percent over the previous year.  Comm. Feldt moved, seconded by Comm. Murray, to approve the 2011-12 finance goal to decrease energy and water usage by 5 percent over the previous year. 

            Comm. P. Severson moved, seconded by Comm. Stottler, to amend the motion with the addition of the goal to maintain annual operating expenses at or below budget for the 2011-12 school year.  The amendment carried on a 9-0 vote

            Comm. Feldt moved, seconded by Comm. Ardrey, to amend the motion with the addition of the goal to prepare a five-year capital improvement plan which will be updated annually.  Comm. Ardrey said this would be a document that could be measured with pictures and data.  Dr. Schulte said she would suggest that the board just direct administration to develop a five-year capital improvement rather than having it as one of the board goals.  Comm. Feldt said he thought this would be a one year goal.  He felt it was an important document and the Superintendent should be evaluated on whether or not she produced such a document for the benefit of long-term financial planning.  Comms. D. Severson, P. Severson and Dommershausen did not feel it should be a board goal.  The amendment failed on a 3-6 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Feldt and Stottler voting in the affirmative.  Comms. Dommershausen, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson and Sodemann.

            The main motion, as amended, to approve the 2011-12 finance goal to decrease energy and water usage by 5 percent over the previous year and to maintain annual operating expenses at or below budget for the 2011-12 school year carried on a 9-0 vote.

            President Sodemann noted the 2011-12 suggested GROWTH GOAL to increase the net gain/loss by 15 percent of open enrollments (including open enrollments at the Janesville Virtual Academy and other charter schools) and increase the net gain/loss by 15 percent of the number of students enrolled in Stateline Career and Technical Education Academy (SCTEA) classes in the 2011-12 school year.  Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. Feldt, to approve the 2011-12 growth goal to increase the net gain/loss by 15 percent of open enrollments (including open enrollments at the Janesville Virtual Academy and other charter schools) and increase the net gain/loss by 15 percent of the number of students enrolled in Stateline Career and Technical Education Academy (SCTEA) classes in the 2011-12 school year.  The motion carried on a 9-0 vote.

            President Sodemann noted the 2011-12 suggested HEALTH/SAFETY GOAL to decrease the total number of employee accidents by 5 percent over the previous year.  Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. Feldt, to approve the 2011-12 health/safety goal to decrease the total number of employee accidents by 5 percent over the previous year.  Comm. Stottler felt this was a weak goal.  Dr. Schulte reminded the board that Mat Haeger, Manager of Health Services and Safety, had made a number of recommendations in his annual report to the board.  She anticipated he would be moving forward with those initiatives.  Comm. Hesselbacher moved, seconded by Comm. Stottler, to amend the motion to maintain the 5 percent decrease in reportable employee accidents, but base it on a rate per 100 employees.  The amendment carried on an 8-0-1 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Feldt, Hesselbacher, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sodemann and Stottler voting in the affirmative.  Comm. Murray abstained from voting.

            Comm. Ardrey moved, seconded by Comm. P. Severson, to amend the motion to approve a goal to decrease employee accidents to zero for the 2011-12 school year.  Comm. D. Severson asked if that goal was really obtainable.  Comm. Ardrey said these were board goals.  He felt if the board did not have the goal of zero accidents, then administration would never strive to meet it.  Dr. Schulte reminded board members that the board goals cascade down and become her goals also.  The amendment failed on a 4-5 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, P. Severson and Stottler.  Comms. Feldt, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson and Sodemann voted in opposition. 

            Comm. Sodemann moved, seconded by Comm. D. Severson, to amend the motion to approve a decrease in the reportable employee accident rate by 10 percent from 4.5 percent per 100 employees in 2010-11 to 4.05 percent per 100 employees in 2011-12.  The amendment carried on a 9-0 vote.

            Comm. Ardrey moved, seconded by Comm. Stottler, to amend the motion to approve an additional goal of zero lost time accidents. 

            Comm. Sodemann moved, seconded by Comm. Dommershausen, to amend the motion to approve an additional goal of 8 lost time accidents.  The motion failed on a 4-5 vote with Comms. Dommershausen, Feldt, Hesselbacher and Sodemann voting in the affirmative.  Comms. Ardrey, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson and Stottler voted in opposition.

            The amendment to approve an additional goal of zero lost time accidents carried on a 7-2 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Feldt, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson and Stottler voting in the affirmative.  Comms. Hesselbacher and Sodemann voted in opposition.

            The original motion, as amended, to approve a decrease in the reportable employee accident rate by 10 percent from 4.5 percent per 100 employees in 2010-11 to 4.05 percent per 100 employees in 2011-12 and the additional goal of zero lost time accidents in 2011-12 carried on a 9-0 vote. 

            Comm. D. Severson asked President Sodemann to provide to the board the date of the next evaluation of the Superintendent.

Update and Consider Possible Action on 2011-12 Proposed District Budget Reductions or Revenue Sources.  Mr. Pennington said they have made progress in working on the details.  A detailed budget book will be provided to the board.  Comm. Murray asked for information on the final number of employees that have been reduced.  Dr. Sperry said he has completed the data for the Janesville Education Association (JEA).  He still needs to complete work for the Secretary/Clerk/Aide union and the Custodial/Maintenance/Food Service union. 

            Comm. Stottler said she would appreciate it if President Sodemann could get something in writing of the JEA’s intent with regard to re-opening their contract so the board can finalize that part of the budget process.  Comm. Feldt asked that the board send something in writing to the JEA asking for a definite yes or no as to whether or not they are willing to re-open and negotiate their contract by a date certain (September 29).  Comm. Feldt moved, seconded by Comm. Stottler, to direct Board President Sodemann to draft a letter to the JEA requesting a definite response on their willingness to re-open their contract during the 90-day window.  Comms. Dommershausen and P. Severson felt the JEA had twice indicated that they were not willing to re-open their contract.  Comm. Stottler said she would like the JEA’s decision in writing because the board must set the tax levy by the end of October and would like to get their decision so the board can move forward.  Comms. Stottler and D. Severson offered a friendly amendment that Board President Sodemann reach out to the JEA President for a discussion and a definitive answer on whether or not they are willing to re-open their contract before the expiration of the law allowing such.  The motion, as amended, carried on a 6-3 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Feldt, D. Severson, Sodemann and  Stottler voting in the affirmative.  Comms. Hesselbacher, Murray and P. Severson voting in opposition.

Discussion Regarding Current Equalization Aid and Tax Levy Cap.  Mr. Pennington said on July 1, 2011 the Department of Public Instruction issued an updated estimate of the amount the district will receive from the state as equalization aid and the maximum amount the board may levy for taxes.  Mr. Pennington said the district uses the DPI worksheet with most of the figures being provided by the DPI.  Changes were made when the budget repair bill became law.  The district will get less in state equalization aid, but will be allowed to increase the tax levy.  The district will see an additional $2.1 million decrease in state aid, but a $2.5 million increase in the tax levy if the board levies to the maximum cap amount allowable.  Mr. Pennington said the district would have to increase the property tax levy by about $2.1 million in order to break even on the 2011-12 proposed budget.  This would result in a 7.4 percent increase in the Fund 10 portion and a 6.4 percent overall tax levy increase.  This would mean an increase of about $55 a year in taxes on an average home.  Mr. Pennington said these calculations allow the district to obtain up to $426,277 additional dollars that had been included in the prior budget.  This is based on taxing to the maximum amount allowable by law which is 9.4 percent for Fund 10 and overall 7.6 percent overall tax levy increase.  This would be about a $67 a year increase in taxes on the average home.  Comm. Hesselbacher asked if these calculations are based on enrollment projections.  Mr. Pennington said they are based on the second Friday in January 2011 student count.  Mr. Pennington said the district will get final figures from the DPI on October 15, 2011.  The board needs to set the tax levy by the end of October.  Comm. Murray asked to have discussion regarding the percentage for property taxes.  Comm. Stottler thought the board may have to ask administration to develop a prioritized list of $2.1 million in additional cuts and who would be impacted.  Comm. Feldt thought it would be important from a public education standpoint to develop a list of things that cannot be cut by contract or state law.

Discussion Regarding Board Proposal on Adult Education During the School Day.  President Sodemann said he had a constituent ask if they could audit a high school course for a fee so he developed this board proposal so the idea could be explored.  He said this would be based upon availability of space.  President Sodemann said he did not know if this was legal.  Comm. D. Severson thought the proposal needed further review at some point in to future due to other pressing issues before administration.  Comm. Stottler said she supported the proposal on its face but asked if it is a part of the district’s mission.  She also asked if there was a liability issue involved.  Comm. P. Severson thought this was a great idea to research.  He felt the district should investigate partnering more with the community and reach out to adults to get them into the schools during classes or after classes in the evening.  Comm. D. Severson asked if UW-Rock County or Blackhawk Technical College might view this as stepping into their area.  President Sodemann felt this would bring citizens and revenue into the district.  This will be placed on the next board agenda for approval of further research.

Discussion and Consider Approval to Continue the “Conversations Toward Excellence” for the 2011-12 School Year.  Comm. Dommershausen felt the board needed to continue this opportunity to connect with the community.  He felt all of the monthly meetings were well attended with the exception of the May meeting.  Plans are under way for the 2011-12 school year to begin meeting at Craig High School on September 29 from 9-11 a.m.  Comm. Dommershausen moved, seconded by Comm. Murray, to continue the “Conversations Toward Excellence” for the 2011-12 school year.  The motion carried on a 9-0 vote.

Discussion and Consider Approval to Change “Conversations Toward Excellence” to “Community Conversations in Excellence” and Continue to Hold These Sessions for the 2011-12 School Year.  Comm. Dommershausen said he thought this title better identified the intent of the listening sessions to promote public input.  Comm. Dommershausen moved, seconded by Comm. Feldt, to approve changing “Conversations Toward Excellence” to “Community Conversations in Excellence” and continue to hold these sessions for the 2011-12 school year.  The motion carried on a 9-0 vote.

First Reading of Revised Board Policy 8640, Board Members Request for Information.  Dr. Schulte noted that board members can direct questions to either her or through members of the cabinet.  Requests for information may also be made as a result of discussion during board meetings and reviewed at the end of the meeting during the summary of requests.  A third method is for a commissioner to complete a Board Proposal form on an issue that may require more extensive research by administration. 

Announcements.  Comm. Murray commented on how quickly Dr. Schulte and Dave Leeder, Maintenance Supervisor, responded to a tree limb being on wires at Monroe School and had everything cleaned up (two hours).  The citizen reporting this to him was very impressed with the response.  Comm. Hesselbacher noted a blood drive on July 29 at Craig High School from noon to 4 p.m.  Craig can earn up to $2,500 in scholarships depending on the turnout.  Comm. D. Severson suggested holding the public hearing on possible school closure at one of the three buildings under consideration.  Comm. Dommershausen gave a brief report on the WASB Presidents Leadership seminar.  He said main points were ways to improve and shorten school board meetings and different ways of offering curriculum.

Future Board Agenda Items (summary of Board requests).  President Sodemann suggested the Board proposal on adult education during the school day be placed on the next agenda for action on researching the issue.  Comm. P. Severson asked to have Dr. Janet Pilcher explain how the matrix numbers on the board goals are being generated the next time she is in Janesville.  Dr. Schulte thought she was coming with Mr. Studer on August 22, 2011.  Comm. P. Severson also asked for an update on recess before lunch.  He asked if any schools other than Wilson were considering doing this next school year.  Dr. Sperry said he would get that information before school starts.  Comm. Stottler asked that administration follow up with neighbors near Craig High School with regard to the effectiveness of the completed sound barrier.  Comm. Dommershausen said he plans to start fund raising for the fourth and fifth grade elementary track meet next week.  Comm. D. Severson asked that President Sodemann report back to the board regarding any discussions he has had with the JEA president.  Comm. D. Severson asked when the board would next evaluate the Superintendent.  Comm. Murray asked for the numbers of employees during the 2010-11 school year versus the number of employees for the 2011-12 school year.  Comm. Stottler asked for a prioritized list of $2.1 million in additional cuts, including what will no longer be done.  Comm. Feldt asked for a list of areas that cannot be cut due to contractual or state law. 

Board Workshop on Administrative Contracts.  Postponed to a future date.

Adjournment  Comm. Stottler moved, seconded by Comm. Dommershausen, to adjourn at 9:45 p.m.  The motion carried on a 9-0 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Feldt, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sodemann and Stottler voting in the affirmative.

________________________________

Nancy M. Hewes, Assistant Board Clerk

Janesville Board of Education

Janesville Board of Education Meeting

Educational Services Center

July 12, 2011

6:30 p.m.

Commissioners present:  Ardrey (arrived 7:10 p.m.), Dommershausen, Feldt, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sodemann and Stottler.

President Sodemann called the regular meeting to order which was duly noticed on July 8, 2011 through posting and notification of the press in accordance with Wisconsin §19.84.

The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.

Board Recognition.  Christine Moore, Communication Director for the Community Foundation of Southern Wisconsin, introduced the Multicultural Teacher Opportunities Scholarship Recipients – Yoiser Mauleon and Melissa Sanchez, both 2011 Parker High School graduates.  Ms. Moore said this program began three years ago due to the wide gap in the district between teachers of color and students of color.  The goal is to address that disparity by offering selected students a $5,000 per year scholarship for up to five years if they pursue Wisconsin teaching certification.  Upon graduation they must apply for a position with the district and, if hired, teach for a minimum of three years.  The district is not bound to hire these individuals.  Yoiser said he will be attending UW-Rock County and would like to become a physical education teacher.  Melissa will also be attending UW-Rock County and plans on becoming a science teacher.  President Sodemann presented each with a certificate.

Safety Message.  President Sodemann noted that Health and Safety is one of the six Pillars of Excellence.  Dr. Cargile presented a safety message focused on material handling.  She said improper handling of materials accounts for a significant amount of worker’s compensation claims costs -- $75,000 in the 2010-11 school year.  She offered the following advice.  When lifting objects, lift with your legs – not your back.  By consistently using proper lifting procedures, a person reduces strain on the back.

Citizen Comments.  None.

Consider Approval of Consent Agenda  a.  Approve minutes of June 28, 2011 regular board meeting;  b.  Resignations/Retirements.  Chairperson Sodemann noted the teaching position resignations of Ashley Kruszka, effective June 28, 2011; Nicole Andresen and Valerie Troxel, both effective June 30, 2011; Janelle Heding, effective July 1, 2011; and Sarah Bennett, effective July 7, 2011;  c.  Appointments.  The administrative position appointment of Shawn Kane, Assistant Principal at Craig High School, effective August 12, 2011; and the teaching position appointment of Jessica Schiltz, effective August 26, 2011;  d.  Second reading of revised Board Policy 5020, Student Nondiscrimination.  Comm. Stottler moved, seconded by Comm. Dommershausen, to approve the consent agenda as presented.  The motion carried on an 8-0 vote with Comms. Dommershausen, Feldt, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sodemann and Stottler voting in the affirmative. 

Consider Approval of Administrative Recommendation of Assistant Principal at Craig High School.  Dr. Sperry said there were 43 applicants for this position.  The building review team felt Shawn Kane was the cultural fit and right person for Craig.  Dr. Sperry brought forth that recommendation.  Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. Stottler, to approve the administrative recommendation of Shawn Kane as Assistant Principal at Craig High School.  The motion carried on an 8-0 vote.  Mr. Kane recognized the students and staff he has worked with as an at-risk teacher at Marshall Middle School.  He looked forward to working with Dr. Spiegel and the Craig students and staff.

Discussion and Consider Approval of Recommended Use of the Current “Save Janesville Schools” Funds.  Dr. Sperry said the district is trying to restore some of the positions in the district that were eliminated due to budget cuts.  Administration is proposing that the $60,900 raised through the “Save Janesville Schools” campaign be used to add .5 hours to each elementary library aide position and to add a .7 FTE Innovation Specialist to be shared by the two high schools.  Dr. Sperry said the cost of these additions would amount to $61,000.  Comm. Hesselbacher moved, seconded by Comm. P. Severson, to use the $60,900 of “Save Janesville Schools” funds to add back elementary library aide time and an Innovation Specialist as recommended.  Comm. Feldt said he was leery about allocating money at this point in time because of recent developments with regard to the 2011-12 proposed district budget.  He felt the board should wait to make a decision until some questions have been answered.  Comm. Hesselbacher said she thought the Save Janesville Schools group wanted the money they raised to be used to restore positions for the beginning of the 2011-12 school year.  Comm. Murray commented that the district may be looking at an additional budget shortfall of $2.4 million.  He felt the board should wait to make a decision until more is known.  Comm. Stottler felt there should be a definitive plan for how this money is to be spent and what it would look like “down the road.”  She would prefer to see some written plan.  Comm. P. Severson said the staffing plan was set.  He felt the intent of the Save Janesville Schools fund was to restore staff.  He felt this was a consistent message.  Comm. Feldt stated that the board was under the impression that a certain amount of state aid would be received.  That has changed.  Now the board is faced with a budget deficit or the task of raising taxes.  He did not think that waiting a month to make a decision would irreparably harm anything from a staffing standpoint. 

            Comm. Feldt moved, seconded by Comm. Murray, to postpone taking action on the recommended use of the current “Save Janesville Schools” fund until a future board meeting.  Comm. Stottler asked for a plan regarding the use of these funds showing the specific person, the length of time and what the plan will look like one year or three years from now.  President Sodemann felt the board should spend the money for the purpose which it was contributed.  Comm. Feldt suggested not using the money this year, but waiting to use it next year when the district will again be faced with a budget deficit.  The motion to postpone taking action failed on a 4-4 vote with Comms. Feldt, Murray, D. Severson and Stottler voting in the affirmative.  Comms. Dommershausen, Hesselbacher, P. Severson and Sodemann voted in opposition.

            The pending main motion to use the $60,900 of “Save Janesville Schools” funds to add back elementary library aide time and an Innovation Specialist as recommended carried on a 5-3 vote with Comms. Dommershausen, Hesselbacher, P. Severson, Sodemann  and Stottler voting in the affirmative.  Comms. Feldt, Murray and D. Severson voted in opposition.

Personnel/Policy/Legislative/Curriculum Committee Report.  a.  Discussion and Consider Approval of Revised Administrative Contracts for New Employees.  Chairperson Hesselbacher reported that the committee reviewed administrative contracts.  They will be revised to reflect the 5.8 percent contribution to the Wisconsin Retirement System beginning with the August 25, 2011 paycheck.  Language addressing tuition credit reimbursement will also be revised.  Future discussion will take place regarding health reimbursement arrangements (HRA’s) and incentivized pay.  Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. Feldt, to approve the revised administrative contracts for new employees as presented.  Comm. P. Severson emphasized the importance of working toward a HRA defined benefit package sooner rather than later.  The motion carried on an 8-0 vote.

            Comm. Ardrey arrived.

            b.  Consider Adoption of Resolution Authorizing and Independent Hearing Officer (IHO) to Determine Student Expulsions for the School District of Janesville in Accordance with Procedures Outlined in State Law.  Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. Feldt, to adopt the resolution authorizing and Independent Hearing Officer (IHO) to determine student expulsions for the School District of Janesville in accordance with procedures outlined in state law.  The motion carried on a 9-0 vote.

            c.  Consider Approval of Recommended Appointment of Sara Gehrig as Independent Hearing Officer (IHO) for the 2011-12 School Year.  Comm. Stottler moved, seconded by Comm. Feldt, to approve the recommended appointment of Sara Gehrig as Independent Hearing Officer (IHO) for the 2011-12 school year.  President Sodemann felt attorney Gehrig has done a fine job.  The motion carried on an 8-0-1 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Feldt, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson and Stottler voting in the affirmative.  Comm. Sodemann abstained from voting.  Ms. Gehrig said she was honored to serve as the district’s IHO.  She felt this was very important work.

            d.  Consider Approval to Delete Board Policy 8353, Legislative Committee.  Comm. Feldt moved, seconded by Comm. Murray, to approve deletion of Board Policy 8353, Legislative Committee.  The motion carried on a 9-0 vote.

Finance/Buildings and Grounds Committee Report.  a.  Discussion and Consider Approval of Revised Board Policy 8354, Finance/Buildings and Grounds Committee.  Chairperson Ardrey said the committee made a few language changes noted in the document.  Comm. Ardrey moved, seconded by Comm. Murray, to approve revised Board Policy 8354, Finance/Buildings and Grounds Committee as presented.  The motion carried on a 9-0 vote.

            b.  Presentation of 2011-12 Fund 50 Food Service Budget and Consider Approval to Increase Meal Prices.  Mr. Pennington introduced Deb Goad, Manager of Food Services.  He said Ms. Goad will be retiring in September after 20 years of service to the district.  Ms. Goad said she would provide an overview of the current program, trends and new federal rules and guidelines.  School breakfast is offered in 13 buildings, lunch in 19 buildings, and after school snacks in 4 buildings.  In addition there are seven community-sponsored breakfast programs in the elementary schools during the school year.  Ms. Goad said the district has provided summer meals at Wilson elementary and the Boys and Girls Club for 15 years.  Last the district provided summer meals at 10 sites.  This year they are providing breakfast, lunch and snacks at 9 sites.  Ms. Goad reported that a total of 1,332,827 meals were served in 2010-11 with 76 percent of them being lunches and 21 percent being breakfasts.  The food service staff has achieved a 93 percent average score on health inspections.  While total enrollment has declined, the total number of meals served has increased.  The number of free meals has increased over the past four years and the number of reduced meals has remained relatively the same.  Ms. Goad stated that the food service operation is similar to a non-profit self-supporting business.  She reviewed the components of revenue and expenditures.  The Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act of 2010 sets new rules for schools participating in the National School Lunch Program.  This federal legislation requires school districts to raise the price of student meals to the level of free lunch reimbursement ($2.72) annually until equity is reached.  However, price increases are limited to 10 cents per year.  Ms. Goad said the district has not raised meal prices for four years.  Janesville has the second lowest meal prices in their CESA group.  Ms. Goad proposed raising elementary lunch prices from $1.90 to $2.00; middle school prices from $2.15 to $2.25; high school prices from $2.25 to $2.35; and adult prices from $2.95 to $3.00.  This would result in $38,122 of increased revenue.  Another new ruling is providing drinkable water during meals.  Ms. Goad said eight schools would have to purchase water dispensers and cups at an initial annual cost of $500 per school.  Milk choices will be limited to fat-free (skim) and low-fat (1%).  Meal pattern changes include offering leafy greens, orange fruits and vegetables, and beans and legumes weekly.  To be offered daily are 100% whole grains, limited starchy vegetables, and low-fat or non-fat dairy.  A major reduction in sodium from 1,400 mg to 700 mg for lunch is suggested within 10 years.  Ms. Goad said the advice she has received is to continue to follow the current meal pattern this year, but start to introduce some of the other items until more specific information is received.  The availability of drinkable water, milk fat requirements and price equity rules are effective for the 2011-12 school year.  Ms. Goad said she was projecting a $4,112,058 food service budget for 2011-12.  She is anticipating a slight decrease in lunches, but an increase in breakfasts served.

            Comm. Feldt asked if there was a limit on the reserve in Fund 50.  Ms. Goad said she is limited to three months operating expenses.  Mr. Pennington said the district currently has a one-month reserve in Fund 50.  Comm. Feldt asked if lunchroom tables and chairs could be purchased with Fund 50 money or if this money could be used to remodel a lunchroom.  Mr. Pennington said he would have to check into that as Fund 50 is very strictly regulated.  Comm. Dommershausen moved, seconded by Comm. Ardrey, to accept the recommendation to approve the 2011-12 Fund 50 food service budget and increases in meal pricess as recommended in the presentation.  The motion carried on a 9-0 vote.

            c.  Discussion and Consider Approval of 2010-11 Budget Transfers and Amendments.  Mr. Pennington said budget transfers and amendments are made twice a year to reflect changes.  He said there was nothing unusual with the exception of the Parker roof repairs due to storm damage.  Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. Stottler, to approve the 2010-11 budget transfers and amendments as presented.  The motion carried on a 9-0 vote.

            d.  Review of Kennedy Elementary School Focus on Energy High Priority Items.  Mr. Pennington reported that Mr. Eichman is still waiting for specific information from the representative for Focus on Energy.  The information will be provided to the board when it is received.

            e.  Continuation of Other Post-Employment Benefit (OPEB) Actuarial Valuation Discussion.  Mr. Pennington said the committee had lengthy discussion at the committee level on what the liability is, why it is such an important item, definition of terms, and whether or not the district should use/fund the trust.  The committee will continue to have further discussions.  Comm. Feldt asked for the total current unfunded liability.  Mr. Pennington said it was $54.3 million.  He noted that currently there is no money in the trust.  Comm. P. Severson thought the district needs to find a way to fund this liability.  He felt the district should work toward an HRA so it would be better able to determine future liability.  Comm. Stottler felt the district needs to get a handle on this $6 million per year increasing liability.  Comm. P. Severson said the committee will be looking at all of the district’s unfunded liabilities.  President Sodemann asked what the district pays for OPEB on a “pay as you go” basis.  Mr. Pennington said they paid $2.6 million in 2010-11.  President Sodemann asked if a change is made to the number of sick days an employee receives or a change is made in the amount of the premium share, would that change the liability.  Mr. Pennington said yes.

            f.  Update on Boundary Lines Committee Work and Consider Possible Recommendation to Full Board.  Chairperson Ardrey said the Boundary Lines Committee last met on June 29, 2011.  In reviewing the committee timeline, he would like to have a complete analysis of any elementary schools selected done by mid-August.  Public hearings would be conducted in September and a final recommendation would be presented to the board on October 1, 2011.  Chairperson Ardrey reviewed the scope of premises to be evaluated based on the charge and direction from the board.  He reviewed the criteria items (ultimate, high, medium, low) that the committee used to rank the elementary schools.  They were: capital expenses per school (major upgrades), latest enrollment projections, percentage of students qualifying for free/reduced meals, planned capital expenditures 2011-2015, actual utility costs/sq. ft., percent of students arriving or leaving school via family vehicle or carpool, and number of general education classrooms.  Chairperson Ardrey said the Boundary Lines Committee recommended to the Finance/Buildings and Grounds Committee that Jackson and Wilson be eliminated from the ranking.  The committee viewed the importance of the rankings based on what would have the least impact on students and families.  They also took into consideration what would have the least impact on students that faced other challenges such as poverty.

            Chairperson Ardrey distributed two ranking charts.  One included only the high priority items as of July 7, 2011.  The other included the high priority items plus two medium priority items as of July 7, 2011.  He noted that the Boundary Lines Committee offered no suggestions for elementary school closures.  The Finance/Buildings and Grounds Committee discussed the matter but had no recommendations and moved the item to the full board for discussion.

            Comm. Murray asked how much time is needed to plan for possible closing of a school.  Chairperson Ardrey said the timeline was based on the staffing plan timeline.  President Sodemann asked for an explanation regarding the possibility of moving sixth grade back to the elementary schools.  Dr. Ehrhardt said this is not recommended based on research conducted by national associations.  He felt the earlier onset of puberty of sixth grade students needed to be taken into account.  The 7, 8, 9 model is hardly in existence anymore.  Taking into account the cognitive and developmental factors of students, the 6, 7, 8 model is the most preferred based on research.  In Janesville, the grades experiencing the strongest student achievement are the middle school grades 6, 7 and 8.

            Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. Sodemann, to direct the Boundary Lines Committee to focus on a comparison of Harrison and Jefferson elementary schools for possible closure beginning with the 2012-13 school year.  Comm. Feldt asked how many schools the committee was willing to consider.  Chairperson Ardrey said three or at the most four.

            Comm. Feldt moved, seconded by Comm. Dommershausen, to amend the motion to add Kennedy and Lincoln elementary schools to the original list suggested.  Comm. Stottler felt there should be conversations with neighboring school districts to consider sharing options.  Dr. Sperry and Mr. Pennington said it would take a great amount of time and work by their staffs to provide an analysis of four separate building plans.  Comm. Feldt said he would like to consider a couple more schools at the front end so he would be more comfortable making a decision at the back end.  Comm. Hesselbacher asked about the ability to project neighborhood growth 10 years from now.  Comm. Ardrey said according to two city planners on the committee, the growth of Janesville is not within the boundaries of the school district.  Also, projected changes in neighborhoods is inconclusive without the 2010 census data.  Comm. Hesselbacher also felt that if it was just a matter of saving money, the board should just look at two schools based on the annual operating costs.  Comm. Murray said he chose only two schools so the board could get information quickly to determine if the school board should request any further analysis.  Chairperson Ardrey said ESC staff did a brief analysis in February 2011 of the effect of closing Wilson and Roosevelt earlier in the process that would give an idea of cost savings.  The amendment to add two schools, Kennedy and Lincoln, carried on a 5-4 vote with Comms. Dommershausen, Feldt, Hesselbacher, P. Severson and Stottler voting in the affirmative.  Comms. Ardrey, Murray, D. Severson and Sodemann voted in opposition.

            Comm. D. Severson moved, seconded by Comm. Murray, to amend the motion by removing Lincoln Elementary School from the list.  The amendment carried on a 7-2 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Feldt, Murray, D. Severson, Sodemann and Stottler voting in the affirmative.  Comms. Hesselbacher and P. Severson voted in opposition.

            The motion, as amended, to direct the Boundary Lines Committee to focus on a comparison of Harrison, Jefferson and Kennedy elementary schools for possible closure beginning with the 2012-13 school year carried on a 5-4 vote with Comms. Dommershausen, Feldt, D. Severson, Stottler and Sodemann voting in the affirmative.  Comms. Ardrey, Hesselbacher, Murray and P. Severson voted in opposition.

Possible Discussion and Consideration of Approval of a Recommendation to Hire the District’s Insurance Consultant.  Comm. Murray provided a brief history of the ad hoc Insurance Learning Committee.  The committee felt there was a need to review the services of the district’s health insurance consultant.  He said requests for proposals were sent to 15 firms and 11 responses were received.  The committee reached consensus on the top three firms.  However, further questions arose and additional interviews were held with the top three firms.  Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. Dommershausen, to approve Boyd Consulting as the district’s insurance consultant.  Comm. Ardrey noted that this item was removed from the Finance/Buildings and Grounds Committee’s July 5, 2011 agenda and the committee has not reviewed the most current recommendation.  Comm. Stottler stated that there was no information included in the board packet.  She was not sure that this item has taken the proper path to the full board for action.  She asked if the board could be provided more detail.  Ms. Tullar said this item could wait, but there were a few pressing issued that she would have to work with the previous consultant on in the interim.  Comm. Murray thought the board needed to address this issue as soon as possible.  He said the district has a wellness plan in place.  There is a health education component and work needs to be done on a future health plan design for the district.  There are two fine health care providers in the community along with a new hospital.  He said it was a team decision.  All of the finalists could provide the service.  However, he would like to keep the business local, with the ability for employees to walk into a local office and receive service.  Comm. Feldt asked if the bids to the RFP’s were public knowledge.  President Sodemann and attorney Moore indicated they were.  Comm. Feldt asked what the bid was by Boyd Consulting.  Comm. Murray said $34,900 guaranteed for three years.  Comm. Feldt thought the board should be provided with information prior to being asked to make a decision.  He felt it made the board look bad for approving a contract without backup documentation.  Comm. Dommershausen agreed but said he felt comfortable going ahead or going back through the Finance/Buildings and Grounds Committee.

            Comm. P. Severson moved, seconded by Comm. Hesselbacher, to postpone a decision on the district’s insurance consultant to the first board meeting in August.  Comm. Murray provided bid information on three of the firms. HNi was $36,000.  Boyd Consulting was $34,900. Tri-Cor was $27,000.  Ms Tullar said the district’s current insurance consultant, M3’s bid was $30,000.  All bids were guaranteed for three years.  Comm. Stottler felt she had to be consistent with her decisions.  She did not want to make a decision without data and without the item having gone through a committee.  Comm. Ardrey noted that the current recommendation is for a different consultant than what had previously been on the Finance/Buildings and Grounds July 5, 2011 agenda until the item was pulled from that agenda.  The amendment to postpone a decision carried on a 6-1-2 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Feldt, Hesselbacher, P. Severson and Stottler voting in the affirmative.  Comm. Murray voted in opposition.  Comms. D. Severson and Sodemann abstained from voting.

            Comm. Stottler left at 9:30 p.m.

First Reading of Revised Board Policy 8640, Board Members Request for Information.  Attorney Moore said he reviewed this policy and suggested several additional changes in wording.  Comm. P. Severson said he did not want to have to write a proposal when he wanted to ask a question.  Comm. D. Severson suggested tracking requests from each board member.  President Sodemann said this would be brought back on a future board agenda.

Consider Approval to Delete Board Policy 8352, Buildings and Grounds Committee.  Comm. Ardrey moved, seconded by Comm. P. Severson to delete Board Policy 8352, Buildings and Grounds Committee.  The motion carried on an 8-0 vote.

Discussion and Consider Approval of Board of Education Goals for 2011-12.  President Sodemann noted that under the service pillar the parent satisfaction survey had a drop in rating last year.  However, Dr. Pilcher of the Studer Group suggested that the target continue to be raised.  Comm. D. Severson moved, seconded by Comm. Dommershausen, to postpone taking action on the Board of Education goals for 2011-12 until the next board meeting.  The motion carried on an 8-0 vote.

Update and Consider Possible Action on 2011-12 Proposed District Budget Reductions or Revenue Sources.  Mr. Pennington said he continues to work on the 2011-12 proposed district budget.  He said Dr. Sperry is working on all the employee change information so it can be put into the proper accounts and line items in the budget.  With the many layoffs, resignations, retirements and changes to part-time employment status, there are a lot of changes to be made.  Mr. Pennington thought it would take another couple of weeks to complete this task.

Consider Approval of Cancellation of July 26, 2011 Board of Education Meeting.  Comm. D. Severson said he felt uncomfortable cancelling a board meeting.  Comm. Feldt suggested meeting on July 26 to talk about the budget in general and any offers to the unions in closed session.

Announcements.  Comm. Murray said he would be on WCLO at 9:15 tomorrow morning.  Comm. Ardrey said the sound barrier at Craig High School is fully installed and is working well.

Future Board Agenda Items (summary of Board requests).  Comm. Hesselbacher said Dr. Sperry offered to do a workshop on employee contracts for the benefit of the full board.  Dr. Sperry said he noted a request from Comm. Stottler for a plan on the use of the “Save Janesville Schools” funds.  Dr. Sperry said he also noted a request for the recommendation report on an insurance consultant from the Insurance Learning Committee to be forwarded to the Finance/Buildings and Grounds meeting on August 2, 2011.  This information would include the top three proposals.  Comm. Feldt requested information on what other items could be purchased through the Fund 50 food service account.

Adjournment.  Comm. Dommershausen moved, seconded by Comm. Ardrey, to adjourn at

9:52 p.m.  The motion carried on an 8-0 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Feldt, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson and Sodemann voting in the affirmative.

_________________________________

Nancy M. Hewes, Assistant Board Clerk

Janesville Board of Education

Janesville Board of

       Janesville Board of Education Meeting

          Educational Services Center

           June 28, 2011

                 6:30 p.m.

Commissioners present:  Ardrey ((arrived at 6:45 p.m.), Dommershausen, Feldt, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson and Sodemann.

Commissioners absent:  Hesselbacher and Stottler.

President Sodemann called the regular meeting to order which was duly noticed on June 24, 2011 through posting and notification of the press in accordance with Wisconsin §19.84.

President Sodemann led the Pledge of Allegiance.

Safety Message.  Dr. Cargile addressed slips and falls related to the use of stairs.  People should pay attention when using stairs.  She said last year nine employee accidents were attributed to accidents on stairs accounting for $5,000 in workers compensation claims.  She offered the following advice.  When walking up or down stairs, always try to have three points of contact.  Do not run up and down stairs.  Watch out for items like pencils or other things on the stair steps that may cause a hazard. 

Citizen Comments.  Doug Rebout, 6401 W. Mineral Point Rd., said the Rock County Farm Bureau is inviting people to attend the Focus on Agriculture at the Skelly farm on July 13.  This event will focus on education and the importance and impact agriculture has on our community.  It has a direct tie to the agriculture courses offered in the Janesville schools.  There will be a farm tour, speakers and a dinner.  He noted that Skelly’s Farm Market started out as a FFA project. 

            Ed Reich, 1240 Boynton Ct., addressed the articulation of high school students into the genetics course at UW-Rock County.  He suggested that students look at the genetics articles on Dr. Raymond Peat’s website.  He told of new research in medications to fix genetic damage. 

Consider Approval of Consent Agenda.  President Sodemann asked that item c. be removed because it will be covered later in the agenda.  Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. Dommershausen, to:  a.  approve and place on file the minutes of the June 14, 2011 regular board meeting;  b. Resignations/Retirements.  The teaching position retirement of Carole Francis, effective June 20, 2011; and the teaching position resignations of Erin Gelhausen, effective June 10, 2011; James Sercombe, effective June 13, 2011; Kelli Grutz and Skylar Primm, effective June 15, 2011; Amy Palecek, effective June 20, 2011; Lisa Raebel, effective June 21, 2011; and Andrew Loizzo, effective June 23, 2011;  d.  Approval of one Building Coordinator at Van Buren Elementary School;  e.  Appointment of Stephanie Pajerski as Van Buren Elementary School Building Coordinator for the 2011-12 school year;  f.  Second reading of revised Board Policy 8350, School Board Committees;  g.  Second reading of revised Board Policy 8351, Personnel/Policy/Legislative/Curriculum Committee;  h.  Second reading of revised Board Policy 5030, Bullying Prevention;  i.  Approval to grant high school science equivalency credit for successful completion of the Animal Science course.  The motion carried on a 6-0 vote with Comms. Dommershausen, Feldt, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson and Sodemann voting in the affirmative.  Dr. Sperry noted that Carole Francis has taught at Parker, not Craig.  A correction was issued.

Consider Approval of Administrative Recommendation of Wilson Elementary School Principal.  Dr. Sperry said there were 64 applicants for the positions of principal at Adams, Van Buren and Wilson.  The peer review team is recommending approval of Kimberli Peerenboom as principal of Wilson Elementary School, effective August 12, 2011.  Mrs. Peerenboom has served as a special education teacher and most recently as a Learning Support teacher at Wilson from 2009 to the present.  Comm. Feldt moved, seconded by Comm. Murray, to approve the administrative recommendation of Kimberli Peerenboom as Wilson Elementary School Principal.  The motion carried on a 6-0 vote.  Ms. Peerenboom said she was honored to be selected to carry forward the many programs in place to serve students, parents and staff at Wilson.

            Comm. Ardrey arrived.

Discussion and Consider Approval of UW-Rock County Articulation for Genetics Course.  Dr. Ehrhardt said this was a great opportunity to offer college credit to high school students for Hereditary Genetics 160 at Craig High School.  Mr. Huth said 47 students have signed up for this partnership with UW-Rock County beginning in the fall.  This will be fiscally neutral for the district.  Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. Feldt, to approve UW-Rock County articulation for a genetics course.  The motion carried on a 7-0 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Feldt, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson and Sodemann voting in the affirmative.

Presentation and Consider Approval of Strategic Plan.  Dr. Kuehne said a workshop was held on May 21 with representatives of the board, administration, employee unions, PTA, teachers and citizens.  Dr. Kuehne said he was asked to lead this effort because he had worked on the development of the Beyond 2010 district strategic plan.  The new plan embraces the district’s Journey to Excellence and is directly tied to the six Pillars of Educational Excellence.  Dr. Kuehne explained that the new goals are fluid in that when an action plan is completed, the plan can be reviewed and updated.  President Sodemann said the goal under the service pillar is to engage a continuous improvement model based on data to excel in how the district serves all stakeholders.  One of the action plan steps is to design and implement a student satisfaction survey.  This would complement the staff and parent surveys.  Comm. Dommershausen said the goal of the finance pillar is to establish fiscal priorities and explore community, state and federal resources sufficient to continue (improve) and expand opportunities for greater student achievement.  He stressed the equitable allocation and optimal utilization of district facilities, systems and funding.  Dr. Kuehne said the approved goal under the pillar of quality is to effectively measure student’s individual achievement with traditional and non-traditional tools that will prepare them for 21^st Century global challenges and experiences.  One of the action plan items is to review district, state and national assessments of skills and adjust instruction accordingly.  Under the people pillar, the goal is to promote active partnerships that foster a common district vision.  Several of the action plan steps are related to identifying, retaining and growing high performers among all staff.  The health and safety goal is to continue to collaborate with home, school and community partners to guarantee a safe learning and social environment for students, staff and visitors.  The approved goal under the growth pillar is to make the School District of Janesville a “preferred vendor” (provider) of education among families by providing student opportunities, collaboration and innovative educational delivery options.  He noted the action plan step of marketing and promoting the district as a preferred “choice” based on student achievement data; staff skills and training; community partnerships; 21^st Century innovative state of the art programs and facilities.  Comm. Dommershausen moved, seconded by Comm. Murray, to approve the district’s Journey to Excellence strategic plan as presented.  The motion carried on a 7-0 vote.

Boundary Lines Committee Report.  Chairperson Ardrey updated the board on the June 15 and June 22 committee meetings.  He said the committee has begun work on some preliminary rankings based on the criteria selected.  Chairperson Ardrey briefly reviewed a number of data charts.  He said the committee has looked at utility costs – especially water usage at Van Buren and Adams.  They have also looked at the age, condition and value of each building.  He noted that all of the elementary buildings have been well maintained.  When the committee looked at enrollment projections, free/reduced meal percentages and the capacity of the buildings, they questioned whether some schools should be removed from consideration of being closed.  Post 1950’s construction/additions tend to have classrooms that will accommodate 30 students.  In regard to capital improvement plans over the next four years, they rank from not projecting any need for major improvements at Adams to Jefferson with the highest amount of scheduled improvements.  Maintenance costs range from over $300,000 at Kennedy to $181,000 at Madison.  In the safety area, Jackson has the lowest percentage of students who walk or bike to school while Lincoln has the highest percentage.  Chairperson Ardrey also reviewed the data on general and special education classrooms and the number of rooms open/possibly open.  He hoped to get more of this data on the district website.  He hoped the committee would be able to narrow the list of schools to three for further detailed investigation at tomorrow night’s meeting.  Comm. Murray thanked Comm. Ardrey for taking on such a data driven and emotional task.

Update and Consider Possible Action on 2011-12 Proposed District Budget.  Mr. Pennington said much time has been spent since the last board meeting putting names to retirements/resignations and restructuring in order to get a more accurate estimate of the cost savings.  An updated budget list was provided to board members.  Overall there has been an estimated total of $10,115,295 in cuts made.  Personnel is the largest budget expenditure and the largest approved revenue item was receipt of the TIF money in the amount of $648,167.  Mr. Pennington said administration will focus on other budgetary items over the next several weeks.  Using $3.4 million from the Fund 10 will bring the total reduction to $13.5 million.  Dr. Schulte said the district has 21 “hot spot” staffing situations they are watching.  These could require the addition of teachers.  Dr. Sperry noted there are only three teaching position contingencies built into the staffing plan.  There are more “hot spots” than in previous years because the district is staffing more tightly than ever before.

Presentation of Community Recovery, Education and Service (CRES) Academy Annual Report.  Carrie Kulinski, CRES coordinator and clinical substance abuse counselor, said CRES has served students in grades 9-12 who have completed drug/alcohol treatment or who have a desire to remain alcohol and drug free.  There are only 40 such schools in the nation and two in Wisconsin.  CRES has been in operation from January 2008 through June 2011.  A total of 17 students have been served with four graduating, seven returning to their traditional high school because of not being fully committed to remaining sober. Three of these seven have succumbed to their addiction and dropped out of school.  Ms. Kulinski said it was a challenge to recruit students.  She said students were referred to them by student services staff, but there are no in-patient drug treatment centers in Rock County.  She said the Freedom from Religion Foundation protested transporting students on a voluntary basis to the 12-step program based on some of its religious connotations.  Budgetary funding of the program was also a challenge.  However, CRES had many rewards.  Ms. Kulinski told of situations where there were “wins” for students.  She read testimonials from several CRES students.  The Board of Education voted to close the CRES Academy in April 2011 and the charter school contract was dissolved.  Of the five students enrolled in CRES for the 2010-11 school year, three graduated and the remaining two will be transitioned back to Parker High School in the fall.  It is recommended that Ms. Kulinski continue to meet with them weekly to offer support in their journey of recovery.

Presentation of Rock River Charter School (RRCS) Annual Report.  Dr. Cargile, administrator, said the RRCS received its charter in 1998.  Its mission is to provide at-risk students with the opportunity to learn in a family-oriented environment where safety and belonging are paramount.  RRCS offers five separate programs.  The Alternative Education program serves students in grades 9-12 who have been unsuccessful in the traditional school setting.  They attend a shortened school day and take classes in the core areas plus some electives.  The School Age Parent Program serves students who are pregnant or parenting and works in conjunction with the Alternative Education program.  This is a two-semester program that allows students to bring their baby to school for the first six months.  The Electronic Learning program uses online courses developed by the PLATO Learning Company.  Students must be 17 years old, in their fourth year of high school and have at least 14.5 credits.  They attend school 2.5 hours each day and work at their own pace.  The GED-Option 2 program serves students age 17 who are severely credit deficient.  Upon successful completion of the five GED tests, additional electives and community service, the student earns a high school diploma.  A Community Learning Center grant funded the Night School program which runs from 1:00-5:30 p.m. to offer students academic support and help them transition into one of the programs listed above.  In 2010-11, RRCS served 246 students, 49 of whom were homeless under the McKinney-Vento law.  A total of 118 students graduated, including 26 of the homeless students.  Since 1998, 894 students have graduated from RRCS.  The RRCS realized a net revenue gain of $278,182 for 2010-11.  Dr. Cargile said she and the staff will continue to work with students and their families to deliver appropriate curriculum and curb truancy.  Professional development will focus on improvement in reading and math.  There will also be an increased emphasis on community resources, vocational choices and counseling for post-secondary education.

Presentation of Tailoring Academics to Guide Our Students (TAGOS) Leadership Academy Annual Report.  TAGOS began accepting students at the beginning of the 2007-2008 school year.  In December 2007 TAGOS moved to the Arrow Park facility, doubled it space, and grew from 36 to 74 students in 2010-11.  Nick Manogue, teacher/advisor, said TAGOS is a project-based learning school serving students in grades 7-12.  The teachers coach and guide the students in their projects which are tied to the Wisconsin Model Academic Standards.  There are specific criteria upon which the projects are evaluated.  Students must earn 24 credits which is one extra credit in science and a .5 credit in financial literacy in order to graduate and earn a TAGOS diploma.  Reasons students give for choosing to enroll in TAGOS are because of experiences with anxiety, medical issues, bullying, expulsion and/or disengagement.  Attendance has been strong over the first three years but dropped to 78 percent for 2010-11.  Nine students demonstrated continuing truancy problems at TAGOS despite many interventions.  Only two of these students will continue at TAGOS next year.  Eight students graduated in 2010-11.  Over the past four years, 22 students have graduated, six of whom had been expelled.  Many students have stated that they probably would not have graduated if it had not been for TAGOS. 

            Jon Woloshin, teacher/advisor, noted that the 2010-11 return on investment for TAGOS is $96,258.  Students are doing better at TAGOS than in a traditional classroom.  Mr. Woloshin reviewed the WKCE test scores.  TAGOS students compare well with district and state average reading scores.  However, they score below the district and state averages in math.  Staff will be working on improvements in this area next year.  Mr. Woloshin reviewed the following recommendations for TAGOS:  address math deficiencies on the WKCE, continue the success in reading on the WKCE, address truancy issues, address the graduation rate, administer learning styles inventory, increase efforts in fundraising, and continue statewide dissemination work.  President Sodemann asked about the importance of having a separate location.  Mr. Woloshin said the school was designed around a business-like environment to help prepare students for life after high school.  Mr. Manogue said there would be an issue in accepting expelled students if they were not in a separate location.  In their current location, the advisors have an unobstructed line of sight over the students.  Mr. Woloshin said they would like to have students who have been successful after graduating from TAGOS come and share their experience at the Summer Institute.

Presentation of Janesville Academy for International Studies (JAIS) Annual Report.  Amy Koch, part-time JAIS social studies instructor, said this innovative educational opportunity was piloted in 2005.  JAIS is open to students in grades 11 and 12 at Parker and Craig.  The mission of the Academy is to promote understanding and awareness of international business/culture/language while providing a continuing emphasis on a core academic base in existing curriculum content.  She said JAIS students are expected to attend classes at their home high school, complete two research papers (world regions and global issues), and exhibit an eagerness to learn about the world. They are given an opportunity to take language enrichment classes in Japanese, Farsi and/or Arabic.   Students attend the JAIS either in the morning or afternoon.  Ms. Koch said enrollment has fluctuated over the years, but is projected to be 29 for 2011-12.  Ms. Koch reviewed some of the Academy highlights such as participation in the critical issues forum in California (US schools, 10 schools from Russia and one from China), teacher visits, Hedberg and Parker multicultural days, working with Jackson Elementary School students, and the Global Nomads group video conferences with Haiti and the Democratic Republic of Congo.  The JAIS will be moving to UW-Rock County this fall to eliminate the rental cost for the Academy.  The Education Communications Board will be highlighting the JAIS in their film.  A Summer School Enrichment Academy was approved to give incoming ninth grade students a 21^st Century learning experience.  Some issues to be addressed are knowledge about and encouraging students to enroll in the JAIS and knowledge about the course selection process.  The JAIS staff and Governing Board are reviewing marketing options to inform students early in their academic career of this opportunity.  Ms. Koch noted items that will remain at the W. Milwaukee Street location.

            Comm. Ardrey left at 8:05 p.m.

Presentation of Janesville Virtual Academy (JVA) Annual Report.  Dr. David Parr, mentor/online teacher, said JVA began enrolling students in the 2007-08 school year.  The JVA has the only online Chinese teacher in Wisconsin, Liming Khan.  Several other teachers teach not only for JVA, but across the state.  The JVA is based at Jefferson Elementary School.  Dr. Parr said the advantage of JVA over other virtual academies is that they have a staff that works fulltime at Jefferson.  Staff is available seven days a week and also helps students over the summer.  He felt being out of a high school location is important to their success because many of the students face social challenges associated with a high school environment.  Expelled students come in only on Saturday.  They are not present when the elementary children are at school.  Dr. Parr explained that the JVA offers a unique student environment, rigorous academics, and requires 33.5 online credits to graduate. There are 14 independent study classes outside of the online courses.  The purpose for this charter school is to decrease open enrollment out of the school district and increase open enrollment into Janesville from neighboring districts.  The JVA provides advanced algebra and geometry courses to middle school students so they can stay in their home school.  Dr. Parr said all 13 middle school students were successful this year.  The JVA provides advanced classes and credit recovery to high school students.  Dr. Parr said attendance has improved over the four years.  No truancy tickets were issued for 2010-11.  They have instituted an orientation program that helps determine if the JVA is a good academic fit for a student.  The JVA brings in $78,145 in net revenue.  Dr. Parr said JVA students have assignments due every day.  The students must work seven days a week.  Dr. Parr outlined some future opportunities for the JVA.  They may engage in blended learning where virtual learning is brought into the traditional classroom to expand learning opportunities for students.  Advanced Placement courses may be expanded – even to a county-wide basis.  The JVA can offer unique courses for specialized purposes such as architectural and engineering courses.  The JVA is looking at the possibility of working with UW-Whitewater to put together a marketing plan.  Comm. Feldt thought the district should be aggressive in promoting the JVA to entice open enrollment students to apply.  President Sodemann asked if JVA students living in Janesville could participate in athletics at the Janesville high schools.  Dr. Parr said yes.  Dr. Parr said the JVA could offer students throughout Rock County and the state as well as home-schooled students an opportunity to take courses through online learning.

Update on Hiring a Chinese Instructor.  Dr. Sperry said Comm. Stottler requested an update on this item.  He said the position was posted and there were six applicants.  Interviews will be scheduled.  If there is a qualified instructor, Dr. Sperry will come to the board with a recommendation.  If not, other avenues will have to be explored.

Update on School Resource Officer.  Dr. Cargile said Comm. Stottler requested that the district and the Janesville Police Department work together to ensure that the SRO’s were being utilized in the most effective manner.  Dr. Cargile said she met with Chief Moore and Officer Mussey.  They agreed that the SRO’s will be included in Positive Behavioral Intervention Supports training and other meetings, pre-expulsion conferences and expulsion hearings as requested by building administrators, and assist in home visits to reduce truancy rates.  The SRO’s will update their calendars regarding elementary school visits, meetings and scheduled vacation.  An updated position description was included in the board packet.  Comm. Feldt asked if the district had percentages assigned to core responsibilities in the job descriptions.  Dr. Schulte said the SRO job description is developed by the Janesville Police Department.  The school district has no jurisdiction over it.

What’s Right in Education/Dashboard.  Dr. Schulte said the district’s Excellence in Education Foundation received a gift of $25,000 from the M&I Bank.  Craig received $37,819 from the estate of Maryann Mapes Kapek for music department scholarships.  Franklin Middle School purchased 30 netbooks through Title I American Recovery and Reinvestment Act funding.  She said the district is looking more toward keeping students in the classroom to work on computers rather than moving to computer labs.  Wilson Elementary School was named a Wisconsin Positive Behavioral Intervention and Supports Network school of merit.

The dashboard quality pillar indicated that the district exceeded its target of 84 percent of students achieving at the proficient and advanced categories in reading.  As a district, 85 percent of the students achieved at the proficient and advanced level in reading.  Students achieved the 80 percent target for math.

            Presentation by Edison Middle School:  Student Achievement.  Jim LeMire, Principal of Edison Middle School said Edison has been on and off the Adequate Yearly Progress watch list over the past four years for students with disabilities in reading.  They are off the AYP list for 2010-11 and will continue to work hard to stay off.  Mr. LeMire reviewed the interventions Edison staff took during 2010-11.  They included:  data retreats and workshops to look at areas of concern in reading and math, academic review Mondays where students received specialized help, Saturday school from 9:30 am - 12:30 pm during the school year to help tutor students, before and after school help, learning labs, introducing test strategies on morning announcements, test scheduling for optimal opportunity, and pep assembly with signs and staff T-shirts.  Mr. LeMire also reviewed the sixth, seventh and eighth grade WKCE test scores (for different groups of general education, students with disabilities and ELL students for the past three years) in reading and math.  Also shown were WKCE test scores for different groups of eighth grade students in language arts, science and social studies.  He also showed the WKCE scores following the same group of eighth grade students for the past three years and seventh grade students for the past two years.  He emphasized areas of outstanding success as well as some areas of concern. 

            Presentation on the Employee Accident Report.  Mat Haeger, Manager of Health Services and Safety, said Van Buren Elementary School was the only school with no employee accidents reported for the entire school year.  The district has achieved a 25 percent reduction in total reportable employee accidents since the 2005-06 school year.  For the third year in a row the number of slips, trips and falls has declined – 33 percent lower than last year.  Mr. Haeger said more employee accidents had more indemnity (payment for lost work time).  Claims with indemnity due to employee accidents is running about 4 percent ahead of last year.  The indemnity claims and medical costs impact the district’s experience modification factor which is used to determine the district’s worker compensation premium.  For the past five years the district has had a declining modification factor, but 2010-11 saw an increase and there will also be an increase for 2011-12.  Mr. Haeger reviewed recommendations to reduce accidents and control costs.  The district will conduct an accident investigation with all accidents that have medical costs to determine the root causes for the accident.  An expanded health and safety committee will analyze and use this data to prevent similar type accidents in the future and to develop weekly informational safety messages.  Building specific data will be shared with building administrators.  Specific data will be shared with administrators so safety messages can be directed toward specific work groups.  Monthly data updates will be prepared and the district will continue to implement a limited early return to work program with employees who have been involved in an accident.

First Reading of Revised Board Policy 5020, Student Nondiscrimination.  Dr. Cargile stated that further language clarification was needed with respect to accommodations offered for students with disabilities or students with 504 Plans.  Comm. P. Severson asked that District Administrator/designee be listed and the specific director titles be eliminated.

Personnel/Policy/Legislative/Curriculum Committee Report.  Dr. Ehrhardt stated that at the July 16 meeting the committee had an opportunity to look at how 21^st Century learning is changing what and how students learn.  He said Franklin Middle School staff and Brett Berg gave a hands-on I-Pad demonstration from an earlier Apple training session.  There are many applications available including online textbooks.  Comm. Feldt said he had an opportunity to attend an Apple Executive Briefing training session.  He said technology has opened many more and exciting learning opportunities for students.  He felt this would infuse passion into students.  Applications are available to help all students.  President Sodemann said there was no discussion with area legislators because they were attending the budget session in Madison.

Announcements.  President Sodemann noted that the August 23, 2011 board meeting has been moved to Monday, August 22, 2011.  Dr. Schulte stated that the 2011 Summer School musical production Hairspray will be presented at Parker High School on July 14-17.  She also called attention to the open house to celebrate the fourth successful season of the Community Gathering Garden next to Wilson School on July 5 from 8 am to noon.

Future Board Agenda Items (summary of Board requests).  Comm. D. Severson asked that President Sodemann obtain the Wisconsin Association of School Boards annual report and applicable IRS report by the first board meeting in September.  Comm. Feldt asked a representative from WASB be present for any board discussion.  Comm. D. Severson asked that the board be provided the information in advance of the board meeting. Comm. P. Severson asked for an update on single gender staffing at Marshall Middle School. Dr. Schulte said she noted that Comm. Ardrey felt it would be beneficial for the board to have an opportunity to tour the school buildings to look at the physical structure.  Dr. Schulte will get further clarification from Comm. Ardrey on whether he meant the full board or just the Finance/Buildings and Grounds Committee members.

            Dr. Schulte said she heard Comm. Feldt mention that the district pursue marketing and expanding the Janesville Virtual Academy.  Comm. D. Severson asked that this be put on a future board agenda for further discussion.

            Comm. D. Severson requested that Mr. Haeger be moved forward on the agenda for future presentations.

            President Sodemann asked if the board would consider meeting only once a month in July and December.  This will be placed on the July 12 agenda for discussion.

Adjournment  Comm. P. Severson moved, seconded by Comm. D. Severson, to adjourn at 9:30 p.m.  The motion carried on a 6-0 vote with Comms. Dommershausen, Feldt, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson and Sodemann voting in the affirmative.

________________________________

Nancy M. Hewes, Assistant Board Clerk

Janesville Board of Education

 Education Meeting

Educational Services Center

June 14, 2011

6:31 p.m.

Commissioners present:  Ardrey, Dommershausen, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sheridan, Sodemann and Stottler.

President Sodemann called the regular meeting to order which was duly noticed on June 10, 2011 through posting and notification of the press in accordance with Wisconsin §19.84.

The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.

Board Recognition.  Steven Eichman, Manager of Purchasing, Transportation and Custodial, recognized Harlan Krause for help in transporting homeless students to school.  Mr. Krause was the district’s first and only contract driver.  As a result of the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act, this position was created in the summer of 2005.  Mr. Krause drove to neighboring cities where School District of Janesville homeless students lived, picked them up and took them to and from their home school.  Mr. Krause tried to make each day the best possible experience for the students in his charge.  Mr. Krause carried out this service for the past five years transporting almost 100 students.  Each student was treated with dignity, respect and empathy.  Mr. Krause worked with school staff to make sure students’ transportation needs were met until his retirement at the end of this school year. 

Presentation by Wilson Student of Donation to “Save Janesville Schools” Fund.  Mike Rundle, Co-chair of the “Save Janesville Schools” said an all-school assembly was held at Wilson Elementary School last week when the students presented him with a donation of $1,000.  He said one student in particular raised over $250 with his family’s help.  Mr. Rundle was impressed that Wilson students were able to give such a donation to a civic project.  As an update, Mr. Rundle said about $125,000 has been raised to date through cash donations and pledges.  A number of fundraising events have been planned for the summer and fall.  Citizens can donate through the group’s website or sign up to volunteer.

Safety Message.  President Sodemann noted that Health and Safety is one of the six Pillars of Excellence.  Dr. Cargile presented a safety message focused on being aware of one’s surroundings.  She noted that during 2010-11 the leading employee accident type was slips, trips and falls, accounting for 30 percent of all reported accidents in the district.  The most common accident was slipping on water that was on the floor.  Dr. Cargile cautioned everyone to pay attention to their surroundings and avoid being distracted.

Citizen Comments.  Ed Reich, 1240 Boynton Ct., commented on current issues in education.  He noted that the No Child Left Behind legislation is up for reconsideration in Congress.  He felt evaluation of the educational progress of students needed to be made more “sensible” and “equitable.”  He felt it is very important to have properly trained classroom teachers.

Consider Approval of Consent Agenda  a.  Approve minutes of May 24, 2011 regular board meeting;  b.  Receive and file fund summary report.  Revenues in the aggregate for May 2011 were $2,307,361 and aggregate expenditures were $9,547,059.  c.  Resignations/Retirements.  Chairperson Sodemann noted the teaching position retirement of Ronald Cramer, effective June 13, 2011.  He also noted the teaching position resignations of Stephanie Anderson, Melissa Bonow, Angela Cmelak, Katelyn Gunn, Emily Dresen, Paul Jenkin, Christopher Koeppen, Melissa Krawczyk, Meghann Kuklinski, Jeremy LaFleur, Hope Langston, Erin Loescher, Chelsea Marenes, Tiffany Meikle, Angela Parrell, Elizabeth Raduly, Joszef Raduly, Ryan Reich, Jackie Roeber Madeline Taylor, Matthew Weyers, Michael Bretl, Elizabeth Brockwell, Sharon Hamby and Danyelle Jenkins all effective June 10, 2011.  Also Anna DiPasquale, Kelly Gaspar, Adam Gould, Carolyn Hertel and Erin Keating, effective June 13, 2011; and Sara Bleicher, Laurie Campbell and Yiyi Gallant, effective June 14, 2011.  d.  Appointments.  The administrative position appointment of Michael Kuehne as Principal of Harrison and Kennedy Elementary Schools for one year, effective August 12, 1011.  The support staff appointments of Allison DeGraaf as Building Coordinator at Kennedy Elementary for one year, effective August 12, 2011; and Jessica Grandt-Turke, Building Coordinator at Harrison Elementary for one year, effective August 12, 2011 e.  Second reading of revised Board Policy 8810, School Board Membership;  f.  Second reading of revised Board Policy 8640, Board Members Requests for Information;  g.  Commendations.  Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. Feldt, to approve the consent agenda as presented.  President Sodemann asked that item f. be removed.  Comms. Murray and Feldt accepted that as a friendly amendment.  The motion as amended carried on a 9-0 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Feldt, Hesselbacher, Murray, P. Severson, Sheridan, Sodemann and Stottler voting in the affirmative.  Comm. Stottler asked for an update on the impact to the Chinese program of the resignation of the Chinese teacher.  President Sodemann stated that item f. would be placed on a future board agenda.

Update and Consider Possible Action on 2011-12 Proposed District Budget Reductions or Revenue Sources.  Presentation, discussion and consider approval to reinstate zero, one, two or three School Resource Officers. 

            Dr. Schulte said she appreciated all the hard decisions the board has had to make.  They have reduced staff and restructured what the district is doing.  She asked the board to be cautious about adding things back into the budget.  Mr. Pennington said the district still had a 2011-12 budget shortfall of about $800,000 as of the May 24, 2011 board meeting.  The district has received TIF money from the City of Janesville in the amount of $648,167 and that is being included as a means of reducing the shortfall.  He said changes are still being made to the budget as a result of the many personnel changes.  Currently, the district is within $200,000-$250,000 of closing the $13.4 million 2011-12 budget gap, including use of $3.4 million from Fund 10 and the TIF money.  Comm. Dommershausen requested a written update on the 2011-12 proposed budget at the June 28 board meeting.

            Dr. Cargile said Janesville Police Department officers have been a part of the School District of Janesville since 1992 – 19 years.  Their goal is to provide education on alcohol and drug abuse as well as crime prevention and intervention.  The officers have had the opportunity to build relationships between staff, students and families and share their expertise to better serve 

children.  Dr. Cargile said it was difficult to show a causal effect that School Resource Officers (SRO) have directly had on suspension and expulsion data.

            Dr. Cargile introduced Police Chief David Moore.  He introduced Sgt Brian Donohoue, supervisor of the SRO’s, and SRO Rick Mussey, and SRO Brian Foster.  SRO Olin was not able to be present.  Chief Moore felt the district and police department could accomplish more by teaming up than going it alone as separate organizations.  Many SRO activities are proactive and help keep kids in school.  The SRO’s keep an eye on early signs of gang involvement by students and quickly involve parents.  They also assist with truancy issues.  Because the officers are in the school every day, they have a continued positive follow through with any enforcement action or guidance they take.  Chief Moore felt it was very important for the officers to have recurring contact with students.  The SRO’s serve as a role model for students and build trust with students from kindergarten through middle school.  They can coordinate with parents and other community agencies to offer alternatives to arrest because they know the students, the families and the school circumstances.  If there are no SRO’s in the schools, an on-duty patrol officer will not be able to respond to a call for service as quickly.  The responding officer will not have all of the student and school background knowledge as would the SRO.  They will not be able to offer the continuum of care and follow-up as does the SRO.  Chief Moore felt the schools are more safe and conducive to a learning environment with the presence of SRO’s.  He noted that the district got the services of these officers 100 percent of the time for 50 percent of the cost.  Chief Moore felt this was a good return on invest and asked the board’s continued support of the SRO program in its current structure.  Officer Foster told of the experience and special training each of the officers has received. 

            Officer Foster explained SRO’s scheduled visits with kindergarten and first grade.  They go through a book “A Day in the Life of a Police Officer.”  They develop an interaction with the children and stress the importance of bike and gun safety.  They also talk about stranger danger and the importance of knowing their phone number and address.  At four fourth grade classroom visits they teach rules and safety, bullying, drugs vs. medicines, and gangs vs. clubs.  At fifth grade, the officers talk with students about concerns they have in going to middle school.  They also talk about internet and cell phone safety.  At middle school, the officers use the Project Northland program.  All students go through a four-part alcohol awareness class with discussion on peer pressure and consequences of indulging.  The goal is to have students feel comfortable enough to discuss issues they may be having in school, at home or in the community so the officers can assist them in getting the help they need.  The seventh grade program involves discussion about drugs – mainly marijuana.  Eighth grade students discuss drug issues – laws, consequences, health risks and addiction.  By the time students finish eighth grade, they have had a minimum of 12 positive interactions with the SRO’s.  Officer Foster said they average slightly more than 200 arrests for all three middle schools combined for each of the past five years.  Officer Foster said all three SRO’s take pride and do everything they can to make sure that the middle schools and the elementary feeder schools are the safest they can be during the day for students and staff.  Their goal is to make the schools a safe place for teachers to teach and students to learn.

            Comm. D. Severson moved, seconded by Comm. Murray, to reinstate three School Resource Officers at the middle schools.  Comm. D. Severson said his only regret in eight years of service on the board was voting against this at a prior board meeting.  Comm. Stottler thanked Dr. Cargile for the complete information in the board packet.  She asked who approved the SRO job description and how often the job description was evaluated.  She asked if this job description would be open to adjustment due to the loss of school social workers.  Chief Moore said they have just completed and accreditation process and would be open to change.  Comm. Stottler also asked about the possibility of sharing an officer between Parker High School and Franklin Middle School given their close physical proximity.  Chief Moore said this scenario would take 80 hours of work and collapse it down into 40 hours.  He felt the district would end up with a substandard product at each school.  Comm. Feldt said he could not support this motion due to the difficulty of having causal data for measuring deterring crime.  He would rather put $125,000 toward school social workers and counselors.  Comm. P. Severson stated that the board voted 9-0 on May 10 to eliminate the SRO’s as a budgetary reduction.  He said the board has had to make hard choices regarding other employees.

            Comm. Hesselbacher moved, seconded by Comm. Ardrey, to amend the motion to state reinstating the three School Resource Officers at the middle schools through October 31, 2011.  She said the board would revisit this item prior to the end of October and reassess the situation.  Comm. Dommershausen asked if this was workable with the police department.  Chief Moore said he could understand the financial uncertainty the board was facing.  It would mean that he would have to keep one or two positions open until the board knows more about its financial position.  Comm. Murray said it only takes one incident in a person’s lifetime.  He did not think public safety should be compromised.  Comm. D. Severson felt that if the board eliminates the SRO positions, then the board should cut the safety measures in place for board meetings.  Dr. Schulte noted that the district does have a crisis manual with set procedures and also building response teams who have received training.  The amendment failed on a 4-5 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Hesselbacher and Sodemann voting in the affirmative.  Comms. Feldt, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson and Stottler voted in opposition.

            The original motion carried on a 6-3 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson and Stottler voting in the affirmative.  Comms. Feldt, P. Severson and Sodemann voted in opposition.

Personnel/Policy/Legislative/Curriculum Committee Report.  a.  First reading of revised Board Policy 8350, School Board Committees.  Chairperson Hesselbacher explained the change was from four  to two standing committees and renames them.

            b.  First reading of revised Board Policy 8351, Personnel/Policy/Legislative/Curriculum Committee.  The committee discussed the duties of each committee.  Comm. P. Severson asked about item 10 under the Curriculum area.  “Reviewing all recommendations for instructional change (including instructional technology and information technology), cost factors, modification of existing programs, elimination of programs, and proposals for new programs.”  He felt the technology aspect should fall under the Finance/Buildings and Grounds Committee.  Chairperson Hesselbacher felt her committee would be looking at this from the instructional viewpoint, not the purchasing viewpoint.  Dr. Schulte said there is a technology component and also an instructional component that cross two different departments.  Chairperson Hesselbacher suggested leaving the item as is with the Curriculum Committee dealing with the instructional aspect and the Finance/Buildings and Grounds Committee dealing with the purchasing aspect. 

            c.  Discussion and consider approval of legislative priorities.  Chairperson Hesselbacher said the committee modified past legislative priorities.  No other suggestions were made.

            d.  Discussion and consider approval of future educational presentations to the committee (poll board on their interest).  Chairperson Hesselbacher said the committee created a list of educational presentations and would be open to any other suggestions.  She said the 21^st Century Learning Opportunities would be presented at the committee meeting on June 16, 2011.

            Comm. Stottler noted the discussion session this committee held with Dan Rossmiller, Director of Government Relations with the Wisconsin Association of School Boards last night regarding building relationships and effectively communicating with area legislators.  Comm. Stottler said the committee is looking at different ways to keep the board up to date with legislative issues.  She called attention to the online WASB Legislative Updates.  She thanked Mr. Rossmiller for coming to Janesville.  Chairperson Hesselbacher said the committee was scheduled to meet with area legislators at tomorrow’s meeting, but they may have to remain in meetings in Madison.  If so, the 21^st Century Learning portion of the program will begin at 5:30 p.m.  She would keep in touch with board members.

            Comm. Feldt moved, seconded by Comm. Dommershausen, to approve agenda item 8c. School District of Janesville Legislative Priorities for 2011-12 and agenda item 8d. List of Possible Educational Presentations to the Committee.  The motion carried on a 9-0 vote.

Finance/Buildings and Grounds Committee Report.  a.  First reading of revised Board Policy 8354, Finance/Buildings and Grounds Committee.  Chairperson Ardrey said the change to this policy reflects the combination of these two previously separate committees.  Comm. Stottler requested that the board be provided with Insurance Committee minutes.  She also proposed having an insurance audit done by the Insurance Committee or overseen by the Finance/Buildings and Grounds Committee.  Dr. Schulte explained that the Insurance Committee was an advisory committee.  Dr. Schulte said she would research the history of the formation of this committee.  She said the Insurance Committee does not make any decisions.  It is an advisory committee to the superintendent.  Dr. Schulte said she would bring any Insurance Committee recommendations to the full board.  Comm. Feldt thought insurance was a benefit and should be part of the compensation package.  Chairperson Ardrey suggested that any changes to Board Policy 8354 come back through the Finance/Buildings and Grounds Committee.

            b.  Consider approval to delete Board Policy 8342, Buildings and Grounds Committee.  Attorney Moore suggested postponing deletion of this policy until Board Policy 8354 comes back to the full board.

            c.  Review Kennedy energy audit.  The committee met at Kennedy Elementary School which is the highest energy user of all elementary schools.  Chairperson Ardrey said Focus on Energy has completed an energy review of Kennedy.  The committee toured Kennedy with information being provided by Mr. Leeder and Mr. Eichman.  Chairperson Ardrey felt the next step would be to look at the mechanical systems and see if certain items can be repaired and how much it will cost.  He said there were 9-10 high priority items on the Focus on Energy audit.  The committee asked Mr. Pennington and Mr. Eichman/Mr. Leeder to put cost amounts on these items.  The committee will then move on to Washington and Lincoln which have also been reviewed by Focus on Energy. 

            d.  Other post-employment benefit (OPEB) actuarial valuation discussion.  Mr. Pennington said the purpose of discussion at the committee meeting was to give a general overview of OPEB.  There will be further in-depth discussion at the next committee meeting.

            e.  Discussion and possible action for obtaining an appraisal for the Educational Services Center Property (land and building).  Chairperson Ardrey stated that the City of Janesville has approached the district as this is one of five potential sites being considered for a new central fire station.  The first step in the process is to get an appraisal of the building and land.  The committee recommended spending up to $4,000 for an appraisal.  Comm. Feldt moved, seconded by Comm. Murray, to approve spending up to $4,000 to obtain an appraisal of the Educational Services Center land and building.  The motion carried on a 9-0 vote.

            f.  Discussion and possible recommendation concerning the receipt of the TIF amount from the City of Janesville.  Mr. Pennington said he brought this item to the attention of the committee.  Because the check for $648,167 has been received in the 2010-11 fiscal year, it will be recorded as revenue for the 2010-11 year.  Mr. Pennington said the TIF money is being considered as a means of closing the budget gap for the 2011-12 fiscal year.  If this is the case, it will be used as an additional use of fund balance money from Fund 10.  President Sodemann asked how the district is coming with the 2010-11 budget.  Mr. Pennington said things are looking good with the exception of one major unknown – the incurred but not yet paid health insurance claims.  Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. D. Severson, to approve counting the $648,167 of TIF receipts to be added to the amount the board recommends administration use from the Fund 10 balance the 2011-12 budget.  Comm. Feldt noted that this is one-time money that will not be available again.  The motion carried on an 8-1 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Feldt, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, Sodemann and Stottler voting in the affirmative.  Comm. P. Severson voted in opposition.

            g.  Discussion and possible action to revise a prior Board decision regarding the purchase of school buses with three-point seat belts.  Chairperson Ardrey said there was a difference between the action the board took with reference to the purchase of new school buses and the actual contract with Van Galder.  Mr. Pennington stated that at the April 26, 2011 meeting, the board approved adding three-point seat belts to five new large school buses but not to six smaller new buses.  According to the Van Galder contract signed on June 2009, the language states that all new school buses purchased will be equipped with three-point seatbelts.  Mr. Pennington said it would be an additional cost of $21,500 to have three-point seat belts on the six smaller buses instead of the standard lap belts.  Chairperson Ardrey said Van Galder management was agreeable to looking at clearing up the language in the contract.  They will also review language regarding the life of the fleet and how many buses are purchased at one time to see if the purchases can be spread out more evenly.  Comm. Feldt moved, seconded by Comm. P. Severson, to approve the purchase of 11 school buses of which the $21,500 cost for the three-point seatbelts of the remaining six buses that were not previously funded come from the general operating fund and not the Fund 10 balance.  The motion carried on a 7-2 vote with Comms. Dommershausen, Feldt, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson and Sodemann voting in the affirmative.  Comms. Ardrey and Stottler voted in opposition.

Boundary Lines Committee Report Update on Data Gathered.  Chairperson Ardrey said the committee is working towards completion of gathering data.  The next phase will be to review 

the data and determine how the committee will use it with respect to the criteria.  The only outstanding data point is the true capacity of a school.  The only way to get to this information is to review the actual blueprints for each building.  The committee does not have a specific square foot per student information yet.  Data will be reviewed at the June 15 committee meeting.

Comm. Stottler left the meeting

School/Community Transportation Committee Progress Report.  Chairperson Hesselbacher said the committee has met three times – March, April and May.  She explained that this committee is really an offshoot of the district truancy committee.  The goal of the committee is to find community-based solutions for student transportation issues.  Lincoln Elementary School PTA will be coordinating and piloting a car-pooling program next fall.  Chairperson Hesselbacher said the committee was also working with Love, Inc., a local non-profit group of churches, to possibly pilot a program using church vans to transport students to school.  Madison and Adams elementary schools have both tried a walking school bus program. 

            Comm. P. Severson said he had a concern that some of the ad hoc committees were not set up to report back to one of the two new board standing committees.  He asked if this committee should report to the Finance/Buildings and Grounds Committee as it handles student transportation.  Chairperson Hesselbacher said she viewed the car-pooling program as a PTA activity to coordinate a volunteer student transportation project.  There are no district resources involved.  Comm. P. Severson asked Dr. Schulte to monitor the situation to make sure district resources are being used appropriately.

Update on Community Funding of Elementary Track Meet.  Comm. Dommershausen said he began to move forward on this matter because he thought the track meet was part of the high school athletic budget.  However, he found out it is under the curriculum department.  He said two cash donations were received which were deposited in the Excellence for Education Foundation account.  Dr. Schulte noted that the decision had been made last year to discontinue the elementary track meet for the 2010-11 school year.  The board minutes led her to believe that Comm. Dommershausen volunteered to lead a private funding raising effort in order to cover the cost of the elementary track meet for 2010-11.  Dr. Sperry explained that the elementary track meet had been budgeted for $13,900, but they determined that the actual cost would be approximately $5,000.  The elementary track meet had been cut from the budget, but would be held if community funding could be secured.  He said only $550 was raised.  The 2011 fourth and fifth track meet was held with Dr. Ehrhardt using $3,586 of curriculum department money to fund it.  Van Galder offered to shift the start and ending times in order to save money on bus transportation costs.  Dr. Sperry stated that the fourth and fifth grade track meet will be discontinued unless there is community funding in advance to pay for it.  He said administration would need to know by January 1, 2012 if there are sufficient funds raised to hold the event or it would be cancelled.  Dr. Sperry said the district will be looking to the elementary PTA groups along with community support for help with funding.  Comm. P. Severson asked if this date could be extended.  Comm. Dommershausen said there is an offer to supply all of the awards and another offer to cover some of the paper and printing costs.  Dr. Ehrhardt will monitor the end date for funding the elementary track meet.

Rounding Summary Report.  Comm. Hesselbacher briefly described the comments she heard when rounding with several schools.  She heard good comments about the effectiveness of Positive Behavioral Intervention Supports and Response to Intervention.  Good comments were made about teachers and staff.  Suggestions she heard were that charter schools would like to see their principal more and traveling/part-time teachers sometimes miss hearing about meetings.  Communication is much better, but staff still wants more.  Teachers love the smart boards.  Overall, staff felt there are only a few safety issues.  Teachers expressed concern about large class sizes.  Comm. Hesselbacher said her favorite part about being a school board member is visiting the schools, talking with the staff and seeing students in action.

First Reading of Revised Board Policy 5020, Student Nondiscrimination and Review of Administrative Regulation 5020.1, Public Notification of Student Nondiscrimination Policy; Administrative Regulation 5020.2, Discrimination Complaint Procedures, and Administrative Regulation 5020.3, Student Discrimination Incident Report.  Dr. Cargile said the title of the policy was changed form Equal Educational Opportunities to Student Nondiscrimination.  A change was also made to comply with the 90 calendar day timeline.  Public notification is a new addition as Administrative Regulation 5020.1.  The complaint procedures are outlined in detail.  Changes were also made to the Student Discrimination Incident Report form.  Comm. P. Severson suggested using the position title on bottom of public notification statement.

First Reading of Revised Board Policy 5030, Bullying Prevention and Review of Administrative Regulation 5030.1, Bullying Complaint Procedures, and Administrative Regulation 5030.2, Bullying Incident Report.  Dr. Cargile said a state law was passed requiring all districts to have a bullying policy.  The School District of Janesville did have a policy but revisions have been made to make sure it follows the Department of Public Instruction model.  The complaint procedures were also revised.  No changes were suggested.

Announcements.  Comm. Hesselbacher noted that the district offers meals at a variety of sites during the summer months.  The schedule is on the district website.  This is open to any child in Janesville.

Future Board Agenda Items (summary of Board requests).  Comm. Feldt asked for a comparison of single gender females/males and co-ed females/males.  Dr. Ehrhardt said the district is switching computer programs which means the information needs to be looked up individually at the present time.  Comm. Feldt said there was no time deadline for the information.  Comm. P. Severson asked for an update on the status of the single gender staffing issue that the board voted on at the May 24, 2011 board meeting.

            Comm. Stottler asked for an update on the Chinese teaching position.  President Sodemann asked about the effect of the resignation of Ms. Gallant and budget reductions on the future of the Chinese program. 

            Comm. Stottler asked that the job description of the School Resource Officers be updated before August.  Dr. Cargile will work with Chief Moore.

            Comm. Dommershausen requested a written budget update before the next board meeting.

            Dr. Schulte said she would research the status of the Insurance Learning Committee and make a recommendation to the Finance/Buildings and Grounds Committee.  Dr. Schulte will also monitor the car pooling pilot activity through the Lincoln PTA.

            Dr. Ehrhardt will determine a definite end date and secure written commitments for donations regarding community fundraising efforts to sponsor the 2012 fourth and fifth grade track meet.

Adjournment.  Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. Hesselbacher, to adjourn at

9:27 p.m.  The motion carried on an 8-0 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Feldt, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson and Sodemann voting in the affirmative.

Nancy M. Hewes, Assistant Board Clerk

Janesville Board of Education

Janesville Board of Education Meeting
Educational Services Center
May 24, 2011
6:33 p.m.

Commissioners present: Ardrey, Dommershausen, Feldt, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sodemann and Stottler.

President Sodemann called the regular meeting to order which was duly noticed on May 23, 2011 through posting and notification of the press in accordance with Wisconsin §19.84.

Harrison Elementary School students Morgan Christoph and Joey Hoeser led the Pledge of Allegiance.

Citizen Comments. Joe VanRooy, 15527 W. Francis Rd., expressed support for Board Policy 8390 which allows student representatives to the board to represent the voice of the students and serve in a non-voting capacity. As a government teacher at Parker High School, he thinks this policy is correct to allow student representatives to enter into discussion. Mr. Van Rooy felt that if students have to pay fees, they should have a voice as long as their questions are appropriate and asked in a respectful manner. He thought the educational value of this policy is immense.
Stephanie Aruta, 238 S. Harmony Dr., said her daughter is in the sixth grade single gender program at Marshall Middle School. She has done well in math in this program and has grown in confidence in all classes. She said her daughter would like to continue in this program. Ms. Aruta said there are 300 students in the single gender program at Marshall. She said an investment has already been made in this program. It is a re-investment to train two new teachers to continue the program. She felt district funds should be spent in core curriculum areas that will benefit the most students.
Cynthia Tellez, 2407 Delaware Dr., said the Janesville Academy for International Studies (JAIS) helped her learn how to manage her time in college. She opposed moving the JAIS into the high schools because it will not allow the students to get involved in a college environment. She supported the move to the UW-Rock County campus.
Fabiola Fajardo, 2406 Delaware Dr., said she is a former graduate of the JAIS. Because of this program, Fabiola said she is able to go to college. She is opposed to having the JAIS move into the high schools. She felt it was important for students to have educational options.
Jonathan Hammon, 1913 Schaller St., is also a JAIS graduate. He said the JAIS has been recognized as one of the top 10 academies in the state. He felt enrollment is low because the academy is not being talked about in school. Jonathan said JAIS made his high school experience very unique. The environment it is taught in cultivates learning and independence. He said the staff is very dedicated to the students.
Sandy Hoeser, 1005 Bedford Dr., said she has a child in the 7th grade single gender program at Marshall who has grown both academically and socially. Ms. Hoeser said for the right student, the single gender program is the right thing to do. She would like to see the program continue at all three grades.
Christopher Koeppen, 820 Blaine Ave., said he was against changing Board Policy 8390. He felt the board would not be fulfilling the spirit of their own policy and would not be keeping communication channels open with students. Under the service pillar, there should be effective, efficient and friendly interaction with students. He felt there was a connection between this policy and the district’s mission statement in creating civically responsible citizens.
Jaimi Jensen, 1816 S. Walnut St., spoke in favor of Board Policy 8390. She felt the most effective means of students communicating with the board is to have the opportunity to speak with them directly. She felt the student representatives needed to be able to express more than just a list of current events taking place at their school.
Oren-Feldman Schultz, 318 Pease Ct., also spoke in support of Board Policy 8390. He drew a number of comparisons between the board and the House of Representatives. The House has a Speaker; the board has a President. Each body has two members who are able to speak and engage in debate, but not vote. Oren said students enhance the discussion and add information from an important source – students. He felt students need some representation on the board. He believes students deserve a chance to have their voice heard by the board.

Student Representatives to the Board. Chelsie Hardenstine, representing Rock River Charter School, said there have already been 93 graduates from RRCS this school year. She told about the Student of the Month program. She also told about an incentive program to promote perfect attendance. A college advisor has offered support to students who are preparing for college. She said the Student-Age Parent students recently visited Blackhawk Technical College. RRCS students have volunteered their services to a number of local groups. They also participated in the community-wide clean-up day. Graduation ceremonies will be held at the Janesville Performing Arts Center on June 2.
Gage Holmes, representing the Janesville Virtual Academy, said he has been a student at JVA for the past two years and has been very successful in this charter school. Gage said the flexible schedule of JVA allows him to keep his job and work individually with teachers. Students have just completed their Measurement of Academic Progress testing and are looking at Summer School course offerings. Gage noted that August 26 is registration for JVA for next school year.

Report from Parker High School Washington Seminar Students. Mr. VanRooy, Director of Washington Seminar, said this was the 39th year for this program. He explained that in this course each student selects a topic of national interest, researches the subject and then writes a three-part term paper. In the spring, the students travel to Washington, D.C. to conduct interviews with top people related to their topic. He said three students would tell their topic, their best interview, the best question and answer session and their best cultural experience.
Danielle Kaiser said her topic was South Korean security and its relations with the U.S. Her best interview was with the State Department when she was able to talk with the Chief of the Republic of South Korea. The best question and answer session was with Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor. Her most enjoyable cultural experience was going to a Moroccan restaurant.
Oren Feldman-Schultz said his topic was tax policy and tax reform in America. His best interview was with the Interim Director of the Federation of Tax Administrators. His best question and answer session was with Representative Paul Ryan who is Chairman of the House Budget Committee. The performance of the Capitol Steps was his favorite cultural experience.

Jaimi Jensen said her topic was green energy and conservation. Her best interview was with a representative of the German Embassy. She said it was interesting to see how the U.S. compares with other European countries on green energy policies. She said the question and answer session with Sonia Sotomayor was an incredible experience. Jaimi felt just being in Washington, D.C. was a great cultural experience.

Consider Approval of Consent Agenda. President Sodemann removed item e. from the agenda. Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. Stottler, to: a. approve and place on file the minutes of the May 10, 2011 regular board meeting; b. Resignations/Retirements. The teaching position resignations of Holly Gould and Shelly Maldonado, effective June 10, 2011; c. Appointments. None. d. Approve recommended appointment of Parker High School Principal. The administrative position appointment of Christopher Laue to Principal of Parker High School, effective July 1, 2011. The motion carried on a 9-0 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Feldt, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sodemann and Stottler voting in the affirmative. Comm. Stottler moved, seconded by Comm. P. Severson, to approve: e. Commendations. The motion carried on a 9-0 vote.

First Reading of Revised Board Policy 8390, Student Representatives to the Board. Comm. Murray apologized to the board and students for making his suggested revision an issue – he said he over reacted. He said he should have encouraged more student participation. Comm. Murray suggested Board Policy 8390 be referred for general review to the Personnel/Policy/Legislative/Curriculum Committee. President Sodemann concurred.

Finance/Buildings and Grounds Committee Report. a. First reading of revised Board Policy 8354, Finance/Buildings and Grounds Committee. Chairperson Ardrey said this revision was to reflect the new Finance/Buildings and Grounds Committee. He said a question was raised as to whether or not the School/Community Transportation Committee should be a subcommittee of this board standing committee. Action was postponed to the June 14, 2011 board meeting.
b. Consider approval to delete Board Policy 8352, Buildings and Grounds Committee. Chairperson Ardrey postponed action on this board policy to the June 14, 2011 board meeting.
c. Consider approval of capital maintenance budget expenditures. Mr. Pennington noted that this item had been referred to the Finance/Buildings and Grounds Committee at the last board meeting. At that time there was a proposed reduction of $650,000 in the current year’s capital maintenance budget. He said the committee reviewed this budget in more detail. Chairperson Ardrey stated that the items listed in the agenda are those expenditures the committee is recommending for approval. If these expenditures are approved, it will lower the previous reduction amount to $635,215 and authorize a capital maintenance budget of $527,524 for 2011-12. Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. P. Severson, to approve the expenditures of $527,524 as presented, thus reducing the capital maintenance budget by $635,215. Comm. Dommershausen felt the board should look at a borrowing plan for capital improvements, but would not support going to referendum to do so. The motion carried on a 9-0 vote.

d. Discussion and consider approval of an energy conservation board policy and administrative regulation. Chairperson Ardrey said the committee had preliminary discussion on this but needs to gather more information.
e. Energy audit review. Focus on Energy will be doing an energy audit on each of the district buildings. They have completed five schools to date.
f. Update on construction status of sound barrier at Craig High School. Mr. Pennington said the project has been moving along and should be done by the end of May or the first week of June. Chairperson Ardrey said the Craig neighbors have been kept up date on the project.

Discuss and Consider Approval for Moving the Janesville Academy for International Studies to the UW-Rock County Facilities. Dr. Schulte said the Janesville Academy for International Studies (JAIS) charter school opened in January 2005 and has been very innovative in developing 21st Century learning skills. On March 31, 2011 as part of the budget reduction discussion to eliminate the rental charge for JAIS, the board approved relocating the JAIS to each of the high schools. Since then, the JAIS board has had discussions with UW-Rock County and they have offered JAIS rent-free space. Dr. Schulte said one thing to keep in mind is enrollment in JAIS. She said instructor Jane Thompson has worked very hard to increase enrollment. Currently, the JAIS is exempt from course selection minimum enrollment requirements.
Richard Gruber, president of the JAIS Governing Board, said it has been a labor of love to grow the JAIS. The board has heard many success stories from alumni. Mr. Gruber said from the JAIS board perspective, the economic issue has been resolved. The no rent agreement with UW-Rock County would be for one year with the option to renew for a second year. Mr. Gruber said enrollment has fluctuated over the years. Students must dedicate a three-hour block of time either in the morning or the afternoon. The JAIS currently has 28 enrollees for the fall of 2011. He said the uniqueness of the Academy has been well-served at the E. Milwaukee Street location, but thought it would be good to have the JAIS on a college campus. Mr. Gruber thought the district might be able to tap into some open enrollment students from other districts who are attending UW-Rock County under the Youth Options program. Comm. Stottler moved, seconded by Comm. D. Severson, to approve the move of the Janesville Academy for International Studies to the UW-Rock County facilities. Comms. Stottler and Feldt urged those involved with JAIS to work to increase enrollment through better ways of marketing this program to students. Comm. Hesselbacher felt the charter school should not be housed in the high schools. She was excited about this partnership with UW-Rock County. Comm. Murray asked about the concern with low enrollment. Dr. Schulte said she has been working with the high school principals and Ms. Thompson on this issue. They have contacted each individual student who expressed interest in this charter school. Comm. Murray felt it would be easier to grow this program if it were located in the high schools. Jaimi Jensen felt it would be good to incorporate information on JAIS into the advisory presentations during scheduling time. Comm. P. Severson asked about the cost of moving expenses. Dr. Schulte said they have been estimated to be $3,000-$4,000. Comm. Stottler asked whose job it was to market this program to the students. Dr. Schulte said part of the responsibility falls on the high schools to inform the students about all programs. It is also the responsibility of the charter school to talk about this program. President Sodemann asked if the high schools advisors and counselors tell of all the
programs that are available to students. Craig Principal Spiegel said the JAIS is in the course catalog. She said the JAIS, along with other alternative programs, was in a video that was presented to students at the time of course selection. The motion carried on a 9-0 vote.

Consider Approval of One of the Following Options Regarding the Single Gender Education Pilot Program at Marshall Middle School. Options: a. Eliminate single gender education at Marshall Middle School; b. Continue with single gender education program at all grade levels; c. Continue with single gender education program as a pilot at eighth grade only. Synthia Taylor, Marshall Middle School Principal, said she has reported to the board every two years since the inception of this pilot program in 2007. She said currently one-third (300) of the Marshall sixth, seventh and eighth grade student population is involved in single gender education (SGE). Instructors volunteer to teach in these classes. Students must make a two-year commitment to the program. Ms. Taylor presented WKCE reading and math scores as well as Measures of Academic Progress scores for both co-ed and single gender classroom students. She said they have also collected a huge amount of anecdotal information. Ms. Taylor said she has lost two SGE teachers due to increased teacher/pupil staffing ratios for the 2011-12 school year. She has also lost staff due to budget reductions. She noted the three options listed on the board agenda. Comm. P. Severson moved, seconded by Comm. Stottler, to approve the continuance of single gender education at all three grade levels at Marshall Middle School and directed the Superintendent to find funding for the staff training needed. Comm. Feldt asked if SGE female students are being compared to co-ed females on academic courses. It appeared from the presentation that all SGE students were being compared to all co-ed students. Principal Taylor said she had those breakdowns. In some cases SGE male or female students made higher achievement gains and in other cases co-ed male or female students made greater gains. Comm. Stottler felt administration could do some “data mining” of ninth grade students on whether or not this program has helped them transition to high school and achieve. Ms. Taylor said she did not see how the SGE program could continue if there were no teachers who would like to volunteer to teach this program. She said she needs two, and possibly four, staff members to volunteer to teach SGE. Dr. Sperry said another option might be to ask staff at Edison or Franklin middle schools if any teachers would like to transfer to teach single gender classes at Marshall. He said staff transfers will be completed June 6-10. Comm. Feldt moved, seconded by Comm. Sodemann, to amend the motion to allow Principal Taylor and administration the flexibility to staff, if they are able to do so, sixth and/or seventh grade single gender education classes. Marshall will continue to staff grade 8. The motion carried on an 8-1 vote with Comms. Dommershausen, Feldt, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sodemann and Stottler voting in the affirmative. Comm. Ardrey voted in opposition.
The motion as amended allows Marshall administration the flexibility to offer sixth and/or seventh grade single gender education if they are able to do so. If resources for training teachers who volunteer for this program are not available, the board is pre-authorizing administration to continue with offering single gender education in grade 8. The motion carried on an 8-1 vote with Comms. Dommershausen, Feldt, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sodemann and Stottler voting in the affirmative. Comm. Ardrey voted in opposition.What’s Right in Education/Dashboard. Dr. Schulte said the district just received word of being awarded a Safe and Supportive Schools grant for $180,000 over three years. This is taking place of the discontinued ATODA grant. The purpose of the grant is to expand online risk assessments, to provide a school climate score and provide training in anti-bullying and safety. It will also help improve student achievement by creating healthy and safe school environments.

Boundary Lines Committee Report. Chairperson Ardrey said the committee met on May 11 and 18. Committee members reviewed 21 criteria points and refined them to 18. They then did a ranking to determine the most important criteria items. Suitability for reuse (salability of building), and physical condition of a property ranked one and two, respectively. The next nine items were ranked as high importance. Some criteria will not be looked at until the committee has narrowed its recommendations down to 1-3 specific schools. The next committee meeting is scheduled for June 1, 2011.

Possible Other Post-Employment Benefits (OPEB) Actuarial Valuation Update. Mr. Pennington said he has provided the board with an updated actuarial valuation of the district’s OPEB liability as required by the Government Accounting Standards Board. The report was done by Key Benefit Concepts. The Finance/Buildings and Grounds Committee will study this report in more detail over the next few committee meetings. Mr. Pennington said the annual payment grew from $1.6 million to $3.4 million under the updated valuation. The total unfunded liability grew from $54 million to $65 million.

Update and Consider Possible Action on 2011-12 Proposed District Budget. President Sodemann said the board would consider sub-items d. through j., then a. through c., followed by k. through s. Dr. Sperry said the following budget proposals have been generated based on being educationally sound as well as fiscally responsible. These proposals have generated excitement, enthusiasm and hope within the Educational Services Center as well as each of the schools. Dr. Sperry felt the proposed changes will continue to allow the School District of Janesville to have high student achievement. The new positions are really meant to instill in staff the will to lead.
d. Consider approval to reduce one Assistant Principal/Athletic Director position from the two high schools. Comm. Feldt moved, seconded by Comm. Murray, to approve the reduction of the position of one Assistant Principal/Athletic Director from the two high schools. The motion carried on a 9-0 vote.
e. Consider approval to appoint one Assistant Principal position to Craig High School. Dr. Sperry said administration is recommending the appointment of Monte Phillips as Assistant Principal at Craig High School. Comm. Stottler moved, seconded by Comm. Murray, to approve the appointment of one Assistant Principal at Craig High School and to appoint Monte Phillips to that position. The motion carried on a 9-0 vote.
f. Consider approval to appoint a Teacher/Athletic Director position for each high school. Dr. Sperry said the district previously had this model back in 1992. He said there is an estimated cost savings of $28,500 with approval of this position. Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. D. Severson, to approve the appointment of a Teacher/Athletic Director position for each high school. Comm. Stottler asked who would select these individuals. Dr. Sperry said he would work with the principals and current athletic directors to select the people for the new positions. Comm. Stottler asked who would set the job description. Dr. Sperry said he would set the job description and the building principal would monitor the individual. The motion carried on a 9-0 vote.
g. Consider approval to eliminate 1 FTE Library Media, Textbook and Instructional Technology Coordinator position. Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. Feldt, to approve the elimination of 1 FTE Library Media, Textbook and Instructional Technology Coordinator position. The motion carried on a 9-0 vote.
h. Consider approval to eliminate 1 FTE Public Information Specialist position. Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. D. Severson, to approve the elimination of 1 FTE Public Information Specialist position. The motion carried on a 9-0 vote.
i. Consider approval to combine the Library Media, Textbook and Instructional Technology Coordinator position and the Public Information Specialist position into a Coordinator of Curriculum and Instruction/Public Information position. Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. D. Severson, to approve the combining of the Library Media, Textbook and Instructional Technology Coordinator position and the Public Information Specialist position into a Coordinator of Curriculum and Instruction/Public Information position. The motion carried on a 9-0 vote.
j. Consider approval to appoint a Coordinator of Curriculum and Instruction/Public Information. Dr. Sperry said administration was recommending Brett Berg for this position. Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. Stottler, to approve the appointment of Brett Berg to the position of Coordinator of Curriculum and Instruction/Public Information. The motion carried on a 9-0 vote.
a. Discussion and consider approval to charge elementary students workbook fees. Mr. Pennington said the estimated expense for elementary workbooks district wide is $90,000. He felt the cost would be $10-$20 for each elementary student depending on their school and grade level. He felt approval of this proposal would bring in approximately $45,000 in revenue. Comm. Dommershausen moved, seconded by Comm. Sodemann, to approve charging elementary students a workbook fee. The motion failed on a 0-9 vote with all commissioners voting in opposition.
b. Consider approval to create the position of Building Coordinator for the 2011-12 school year. Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. Hesselbacher, to approve the creation of the position of Building Coordinator for the 2011-12 school year. The motion carried on a 9-0 vote.
c. Consider approval for one Building Coordinator at Harrison Elementary School and one at Kennedy Elementary School. Dr. Sperry noted that implementation of these positions would result in an estimated cost savings of $190,000. Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. D. Severson, to approve the position of one Building Coordinator at Harrison Elementary School and one at Kennedy Elementary School. The motion carried on a 9-0 vote
k. Presentation of detailed plan to restore staff. Dr. Ehrhardt said the district has trained 21 percent of the staff in 21st Century learning principles. Administration has deconstructed, rebuilt and restructured job descriptions with a strong focus on outcomes. The district has been divided into four regional Professional Learning Communities with the emphasis on more site-based management. Dr. Ehrhardt said some high school and middle school counselors have been recalled. A new Student Services Specialist position has been created. Some high school and middle school Library Media Specialists have been recalled. A new Innovation Specialist position has been created. Academic Learning Coaches will replace the Learning Support Teachers. He said the district is looking for a more interdisciplinary approach and people who can do “data mining.” Dr. Ehrhardt said 14 Academic Learning Coaches will replace 17 Learning Support Teachers. Five recalled Library/Media Specialists and five Innovation Specialists will replace 19 Library/Media Specialists. Seven recalled counselors and 11.5 Student Services Specialists will replace 25 counselors.
l. Consider approval to eliminate 17 Learning Support Teacher positions.
m. Consider approval to create 14 Academic Learning Coach positions.
n. Consider approval to reduce 14 Library Media Specialist positions
o. Consider approval to create 5 Innovation Specialist positions.
p. Consider approval to reduce 18.5 FTE Counselor positions.
q. Consider approval to create 11.5 FTE Student Service Specialist positions.
Comm. Stottler moved, seconded by Comm. Ardrey, to approve items l. through q. as presented. The motion carried on a 9-0 vote.
r. Discuss and consider approval to amend the staffing plan to reduce the secretary/clerk/aide allocation previously approved by the board due to budget reductions. Dr. Sperry explained that under the staffing plan previously approved by the board 2.25 minutes per student was allocated for middle and high school secretary/clerk duties at the schools. He said administration was now recommending that this be adjusted to no less than 1.90 minutes per student. Dr. Sperry said this recommendation would be effective only for the clerical pool. The reduction to 1.90 minutes per student would result in an estimated cost savings of $97,319. Dr. Sperry said he was giving the building principals the latitude to reduce clerical pool hours and/or positions. Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. Hesselbacher, to approve amending the staffing plan to reduce the clerical pool allocation to 1.90 minutes per student. The motion carried on a 9-0 vote.
s. Discuss and consider approval to add back or reduce further any item listed on the budget reduction list. D. Severson moved, seconded by Comm. Murray, to restore three School Resource Officers – one at each of the three middle schools. Comm. Stottler suggested that this item go back to committee to see if a compromise can be worked out. Comm. Dommershausen moved, seconded by Comm. Stottler, to postpone a decision on this item to the June 14, 2011 board meeting. Comm. Murray requested that a member of the Janesville Police Department be invited to the June 14, 2011 board meeting. The motion carried on a 9-0 vote.
Comm. Feldt noted that there was still $800,000 yet to be reduced in order to reach a balanced budget for 2011-12. Dr. Schulte said there are still some items to be considered such as three elementary principal vacancies and possibly one more administrative position at the ESC. She said these items would reduce the budget deficit by about $300,000 leaving a budget deficit of $500,000. Mr. Pennington thought perhaps some of the cost savings estimates for reductions in staff might be larger than the conservative estimates shown. Dr. Sperry said he hopes to have final staff cost savings by the June 14, 2011 board meeting.  Comm. Stottler asked, if possible, for arrest and expulsion data at the middle school versus the high school for the past three years with regard to the School Resource Officer position.

First Reading of Revised Board Policy 8810, School Board Membership. President Sodemann noted that “will” was changed to “may” in the first sentence.

First Reading of Revised Board Policy 8640, Board Members Requests for Information. Dr. Schulte said she added that all requests for information could also flow through members of the cabinet in addition to the District Administrator. Comm. Feldt asked Dr. Schulte to be more definitive in her description of “members of the cabinet.” Dr. Schulte said she would make that more clear.

Announcements. None

Future Board Agenda Items. Comm. Hesselbacher suggested adding a report from the School/Community Transportation Committee and a report of her rounding summary to the June 14, 2011 board agenda. Dr. Schulte suggested adding a safety message to each board agenda.

Adjournment Comm. Ardrey moved, seconded by Comm. P. Severson, to adjourn at 10:50 p.m. The motion carried on a 9-0 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Feldt, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sodemann and Stottler voting in the affirmative.

________________________________
Nancy M. Hewes, Assistant Board Clerk
Janesville Board of Education

Educational Services Center
May 10, 2011
6:34 p.m.

Commissioners present: Ardrey, Dommershausen, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sheridan, Sodemann and Stottler.

President Sodemann called the regular meeting to order which was duly noticed on May 6, 2011 through posting and notification of the press in accordance with Wisconsin §19.84.

Gavin Ziebell and Katie Young of Harrison Elementary School led the Pledge of Allegiance.

Citizen Comments. Liz McLevige, 2433 Greenwood Dr., said as a technology education teacher she is concerned about the cuts in courses the district is making in the Project Lead the Way curriculum. She said they are the equivalent of Advanced Placement courses for technology education. Students can receive credit for some of these courses at post-secondary schools. She urged the board to keep these courses.
Christopher Koeppen, 820 Blaine Ave., said he was an advocate of Board Policy 8390 which addresses student representatives to the board. He said one of the arguments he heard was that students are not elected officials. He referred to Board Policy 5220 which references student councils. He said Parker does have a student council constitution and based on this felt a student representative to the board was a sanctioned elected official. He felt the citizen comments section of board agendas and the Conversations Toward Excellence open public forums do not offer the same opportunity for interaction with the board on record. He felt Jaimi Jensen has done a great job of representing the students of Parker High School.
Britta Brossard, 1400 Alpine Dr., was concerned about the proposed shared principal position for Harrison and Kennedy elementary schools. She felt it was important to have an on-site principal. She asked the board to put the education and safety of children first and foremost.
Ed Reich, 1240 Boynton Ct., stated he was concerned about the dangers of nuclear radiation. Many of the effects last for 50 years. He also presented information on a study regarding cow’s milk as a cause of constipation in children. In the study, 51 percent of the children showed a positive response to cow’s milk avoidance.
Diane Eyers, 3320 LaMancha Dr., was concerned about the proposed shared principal between Harrison and Kennedy elementary schools. She asked the board to look at the results of such an effort in Beloit. She asked the board to consider adding back a shared counselor.

Student Representatives to the Board. Jaimi Jensen, representing Parker High School, reported that 11 choir students won awards and 8 received honorable mention for the Tommy Awards. Bricks for the Thor Walkway of Distinction have been made available to Parker grads, staff and alumni to help the Richard Klipstein Thor Scholarship Foundation. Other events are: Senior Awards ceremony on May 25; French and Spanish National Honor Society inductions on May 15; FFA plant sale will be held every Saturday and Sunday in May; Washington Seminar student debriefing on May 22; and a Campus Clean-Up Day sponsored by the Green Squad.
Rachel Hahn, Craig High School representative, noted events at Craig which include: Eighth grade co-curricular meetings; student visitors from Thailand; and the Reality Check activity on April 28. Former Packer Antonio Freeman attended the “Grow Pink” girls’ soccer game. Three former Craig grads were inducted into the Wall of Honor – Frank Douglas, Bob Carr and Dave Moore. The student Talent Show was successful. Author Jonathan Friesen will be visiting on May 13; the spring band concert is May 11; the ELL Family Night at Wilson Elementary is May 17; choir concerts on May 18 and 25; the mock car crash event on May 19. Prom is May 21 with the theme “Bright Lights, Big City.” A community blood drive is set for May 26; Senior Awards also on May 26; orchestra concert on June 1; senior picnic on June 2; folly skits on June 3; and graduation on June 10.

Consider Approval of Consent Agenda a. Approve minutes of April 26, 2011 regular board meeting and April 20, 2011 special board meeting; b. Receive and file fund summary report. Revenues in the aggregate for April 2011 were $1,805,801 and aggregate expenditures were $9,866,304. c. Resignations/Retirements. Chairperson Sodemann noted the teaching position resignations of Stephanie Hill and Daniel Kuehne, both effective June 10, 2011. d. Appointments. None. e. Consider approval of application for ING Unsung Heroes Awards Program grant for Harrison Elementary School Digital Art Project in the amount of up to $27,000; f. Consider approval of application for ING Unsung Heroes Awards Program grant for Roosevelt Elementary School After-School Recreational Program in the amount of up to $27,000; g. Commendations. Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. P. Severson, to approve the consent agenda as presented. The motion carried on a 9-0 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Feldt, Hesselbacher, Murray, P. Severson, Sheridan, Sodemann and Stottler voting in the affirmative.

Update and Consider Possible Action on 2011-12 Proposed District Budget Reductions or Revenue Sources. Dr. Schulte asked the board to consider taking action on as many budget items as the feel comfortable with tonight. She noted several recent changes in the proposed 2011-12 district budget to put more money back into the maintenance capital budget. The maintenance capital budget reduction amount has been lowered from $1 million to $650,000. The number of secretary/clerk/aide employee reductions has been increased from 10 to 15. The teacher/support reductions have also been raised from 27.5 FTE to 37.5 FTE.

a. Textbooks – Comm. Feldt moved, seconded by Comm. Murray, to approve the proposed reduction of $100,000. The motion carried on a 9-0 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Feldt, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sodemann and Stottler.

b. Textbook Adoptions – Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. Feldt, to approve the proposed reduction of $100,000. The motion carried on a 9-0 vote.

c. Maintenance Capital Budget – Mr. Pennington said the net maintenance capital budget for 2011-12 will be about $512,739. Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. Hesselbacher, to approve the proposed reduction of $650,000. Comm. Murray noted there is a chance of the school district receiving some funds from the possible dissolution of a tax increment finance district. Comm. Ardrey moved, seconded by Comm. Stottler, to postpone making a decision on this item until the May 24 board meeting in order to discuss this item in the Finance/Building and Grounds Committee tentatively set for May 17. Comm. Ardrey stated that as a result of the committee meeting, a new maintenance capital budget priority list will be distributed to the board prior to the May 24 board meeting.
Comm. Murray felt the board should make a decision tonight in order to let administration follow through with staff recalls. Comm. D. Severson concurred. He felt the board could continue to make budget adjustments at a later date. The motion to postpone making a decision on this item until the May 24 board meeting carried on a 6-3 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Feldt, P. Severson, Sodemann and Stottler voting in the affirmative. Comms. Hesselbacher, Murray and D. Severson voted in opposition.

d. Information Technology Budget – No reductions or increases to this budget are proposed. At this time it will remain at the 2010-11 budgeted amount of $637,660.

e. Maintenance/Custodial – 3 Employees – Mr. Pennington noted that at the April 26, 2011 board meeting the board approved a reduction of10 FTE custodial positions. Tonight’s proposal calls for the reduction of three FTE maintenance employees for an estimated cost savings of $149,840. Comm. Stottler moved, seconded by Comm. D. Severson, to approve the proposed reduction of three FTE maintenance employees for an estimated cost savings of $149,840.
Comm. Murray moved to amend the motion by using $149,840 from the Fund 10 balance to offset the three FTE maintenance employee reductions. The motion died for lack of a second.
The pending motion to approve the proposed reduction of three FTE maintenance employees for an estimated cost savings of $149,840 carried on an 8-1 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Feldt, Hesselbacher, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sodemann and Stottler voting in the affirmative. Comm. Murray voted in opposition.

f. Secretaries/Clerks/Aides – Reductions – 15 Employees – Comm. D. Severson moved, seconded by Comm. Feldt, to approve the proposed reduction of 15 FTE secretaries/clerks/aides for an estimated cost savings of $315,000. Comm. Stottler asked where the reductions will take place. Dr. Schulte said she has not identified specific employees or positions yet. Some of this is contingent on where other staff reductions will be made. Dr. Schulte said if further reductions are made to Library Media Specialists for example, there may be a need keep more library/media center aides.
Comm. Stottler moved to amend the motion by substituting a reduction of 10 FTE secretaries/clerks/aides for an estimated cost savings of $210,000. The motion died for lack of a second.
Comm. Murray moved to amend the motion by using $315,000 from the Fund 10 balance to maintain the 15 FTE secretaries/clerks/aides positions. The motion died for lack of a second.
Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. Stottler, to amend the motion by using $105,000 from the Fund 10 balance to reduce the secretaries/clerks/aides proposed reduction to 10 FTE employees. The amendment failed on a 2-6-1 vote with Comms. Murray and Stottler voting in the affirmative. Comms. Dommershausen, Feldt, Hesselbacher, D. Severson, P. Severson and Sodemann voted in opposition. Comm. Ardrey abstained from voting.
The pending motion to approve the proposed reduction of 15 FTE secretaries/clerks/aides for an estimated cost savings of $315,000 carried on a 6-2-1 vote with Comms. Dommershausen, Feldt, Hesselbacher, D. Severson, P. Severson and Sodemann. Comms. Murray and Stottler voted in opposition. Comm. Ardrey abstained from voting.

g. Non-Represented Staff – Approve appointment of interim principal of Harrison/Kennedy Elementary Schools for one year. Dr. Sperry referenced a memo included in the board packet. He said administration has looked at the capabilities of the Harrison and Kennedy staffs as well as the potential and knowledge base of the recommended interim principal. Dr. Sperry said the shared principal position between these two elementary schools is being proposed for only one year at this time. He said there would also be a building coordinator position designated at each elementary to assist with instructional strategies, staff development, school improvement planning, student attendance, and student discipline. Dr. Sperry said it was administration’s recommendation that former elementary, middle school and high school principal Dr. Michael Kuehne be hired at a salary of $56,000 for 48 weeks to serve in this interim position. Dr. Schulte noted that the shared principal would result in a cost savings of $140,000. She said administration was seeking approval for a shared principal and the appointment of Dr. Kuehne to that interim position. The building coordinator positions are not included in the request at this time.
Comm. Stottler moved, seconded by Comm. P. Severson, to approve the proposal for a shared interim principal between Harrison and Kennedy Elementary Schools for one year and that person is Dr. Michael Kuehne. Comm. D. Severson felt the board should monitor this model and be open to considering this model going forward. The motion carried on a 9-0 vote.

h. Student Fees – Dr. Schulte distributed a list of enrollment fee comparisons with the Beloit, Madison, Middleton and Appleton school districts. Janesville fees were the lowest for most all grade levels. Dr. Schulte noted that the board did raise the Kindergarten enrollment fee from $12 to $20 at the January 11, 2011 board meeting and raised the student parking fee from $50/year to $100/year at the March 31, 2011 board meeting. She left the decision whether or not to raise enrollment fees to the discretion of the board. Comm. Stottler asked if the 48 percent of students on free/reduced lunches were taken into account when determining the proposed $332,983 cost savings to be realized from the proposed doubling of student enrollment fees. Mr. Pennington said he did not have the detailed information with him.
The board took a 5 min. recess.
Mr. Pennington said the $332,983 figure is in error. Mr. Pennington said the district collected about $194,483 in fees overall for 2010-11 which would take into account children qualifying for free/reduced lunches. For every $5 increase in enrollment fees, it would generate an additional $45,000 in revenue. Comm. Feldt moved, seconded by Comm. Stottler, to approve the raising student enrollment fees by $10 for kindergarten, elementary school, and middle school students, and $11 for high school students. This would make the enrollment fees $30 for kindergarten and elementary students, $35 for middle school students and $40 for high school students and increase revenue by about $90.000. The motion carried on an 8-1 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Feldt, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sodemann and Stottler. Comm. Dommershausen voted in opposition.

i. Rental Facilities – Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. P. Severson, to approve the proposed increase in rental facilities fees amounting to $16,000. Mr. Pennington explained that the district charges outside groups for the use of the district’s facilities. He said this amount represents about a 10 percent increase to cover basically custodial costs. The motion carried on a 9-0 vote.

j. Workbook Fees Charge – Dr. Schulte explained that the district supplies workbooks to elementary school children at a district-wide cost of $90,000. Comm. Feldt moved, seconded by Comm. Murray, to approve the proposal to assess elementary students a workbook fee to generate approximately $90,000 in additional revenue. Comm. Hesselbacher asked what the estimated workbook fee per child would be. Dr. Schulte said about $18. President Sodemann said he would like to see what other Big 8 schools charge. The motion failed on a 4-5 vote with Comms. Feldt, Murray, D. Severson and P. Severson voting in the affirmative. Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Hesselbacher, Sodemann and Stottler voted in opposition.
k. TAGOS Rent – Still pending

l. Teacher/Support Staff Reductions – 37.5 FTE – Dr. Schulte said she was requesting a reduction of 37.5 FTE teacher/support staff positions. Dr. Ehrhardt gave a PowerPoint presentation explaining the key concepts of a restructured plan to maintain educational excellence yet advance forward. Although fewer than current staffing, counselors will be recalled to the middle and high schools as required by state statute. Student Services Specialists will be added at each level to assist with the social/emotional needs of students. Together with the current social workers and school psychologists, they will provide the elementary school guidance programming. Library/Media Specialists will also need to be recalled per state statute. The newly created position of Innovation Specialist will promote instructional technology at the middle and elementary levels and provide services to able learners in the Talented and Gifted program. Academic Learning Coaches will replace the Learning Support Teachers. The new position will seek staff with experience in “data mining” and staff development knowledge. The school district will be divided into four regional Professional Learning Communities – West Side, East Side, South Side, and High School. Each region will have more site-based responsibilities for managing schools. Overall, Dr. Ehrhardt said the Academic Learning Coaches will replace 14 of the former 17 Learning Support Teachers. The new Innovation Specialists and recalled Library-Media staff will replace 10-15 of the former 19 Library/Media staff. The new Student Support Specialists and recalled middle/high school counselors will replace 18-22 of the former 25 school counselors.  Comms. Feldt, D. Severson and Stottler felt they needed further details and clearer information on what this new plan will actually look like and how it will impact students. Dr. Ehrhardt said more planning time needs to be spent with staff on developing further details. This is a general framework. Comm. D. Severson felt it would be helpful to have a staffing and cost spreadsheet for each school. Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. Ardrey, to approve the proposed the reduction of 37.5 FTE teacher/support staff. In response to Comm. P. Severson, Dr. Sperry said internal laid off staff will have to apply for the new positions but administration is hoping to hire them back. The motion carried on a 9-0 vote.

m. Restoration of Services to Buildings* -- a covered under Dr. Ehrhardt’s presentation above.

n. Revenue Source: Small Appliance Fees – Comm. P. Severson moved, seconded by Comm. Sodemann, to approve a small appliance fee estimated to increase revenue by $1,000. Dr. Schulte said this was a suggestion she received from a number of staff members. Steve Eichman provided a chart of fees for various appliances. Dr. Schulte said this was not meant to disallow fans in classrooms. Some small appliances are not really necessary items. This would be a cost savings in the district’s energy conservation plan. Comm. Stottler felt there should be a board policy against having some items such as candle warmers, hot plates and portable electric heaters. She felt these raised safety and liability issues. Comm. Dommershausen felt the district should not allow items that are deemed safety hazards. If this was the direction the board wished to take, Dr. Schulte said a board policy would have to be developed as part of the energy management plan. The motion failed on a 2-7 vote with Comms. Murray and P. Severson voting in the affirmative. Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Feldt, Hesselbacher, D. Severson, Sodemann and Stottler voted in opposition.

o. School Resource Officers – Dr. Schulte said there is a School Resource Officer at each of the three middle schools. She said the district shares the cost of these officers 50-50 with the City of Janesville. Dr. Schulte said the Police Liaison Officer position at each of the two high schools would be maintained. She cautioned the board that in talking with the police chief that the police department will not be able to provide the same level of service or response time as when the officers were on site in the middle schools. The middle schools will have to call for police assistance with situations and wait for a response. Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. P. Severson, to approve the proposal to eliminate the three middle school resource officers for an estimated cost savings of $125,000. The motion carried on a 9-0 vote.

p. Nurse – 1 FTE – Dr. Schulte said this is a non-JEA position. She said she has looked a reductions from all departments across the district. Comm. Stottler moved, seconded by Comm. Murray, to approve the proposed reduction of 1 FTE nurse for an estimated cost savings of $56,000. The motion carried on a 9-0 vote.

President Sodemann said administration would provided updated numbers and dollar amounts with regard to the 2011-12 proposed district budget at the May 24 board meeting. Perhaps a template of the support staff restructuring plan will be ready for distribution. President Sodemann said he would like to have the workbook fee charge brought back on the agenda for consideration along with a comparison to other Big 8 schools.

Update on May 4, 2011 Boundary Lines Committee Meeting. Comm. Ardrey said he would suggest that a safety topic be added to the regular board agenda. He noted that there are over 10,000 injuries each year due to lawn mower related accidents. Comm. Ardrey said he reviewed the presentation he had made to the board on April 20, 2011 with the committee. The timeline for having a committee recommendation to the board was moved from January 1, 2012 to December 1, 2011. The consensus of the committee was that taxpayers are the number one customer for boundary line criteria. Committee members will get into detail with assigning values to the criteria on a matrix at tomorrow night’s committee meeting. The committee determined four main categories and assigned a weight to each of them. They are: Finance: keep costs down (10); Quality: provide a quality education (10); Service: impact on neighborhoods (8); and health and safety (7). Comm. Ardrey said the next step will be to gather hard data and further information.

Announcements. None

Future Board Agenda Items. None

Adjournment. Comm. Hesselbacher moved, seconded by Comm. Murray, to adjourn at
9:40 p.m. The motion carried on a 9-0 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sheridan, Sodemann and Stottler voting in the affirmative.

_________________________________
Nancy M. Hewes, Assistant Board Clerk
Janesville Board of Education

Janesville Board of Education Meeting
Educational Services Center
April 26, 2011
6:30 p.m.

Commissioners present: Ardrey, Dommershausen, Feldt, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson (arrived at 7:10 p.m.), P. Severson, Sodemann and Stottler.

Dr. Schulte, District Administrator, called the regular meeting to order which was duly noticed on April 21, 2011 through posting and notification of the press in accordance with Wisconsin §19.84.

Franklin Middle School student Matthew Titus led the Pledge of Allegiance.

Reorganization of the Board of Education. Dr. Schulte called for nominations for President of the Board of Education. Comm. Stottler moved to nominate Bill Sodemann as Board President. Hearing no further nominations, nominations were closed. The motion carried on an 8-0 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Feldt, Hesselbacher, Murray, P. Severson, Sodemann and Stottler voting in the affirmative. Dr. Schulte announced Bill Sodemann as President of the Board of Education.
President Sodemann called for nominations for Vice President of the Board of Education. Comm. Stottler moved to nominate Kevin Murray as Vice President. Hearing no further nominations, nominations were closed. The motion carried on an 8-0 vote. President Sodemann announced Kevin Murray as Vice President of the Board of Education.
President Sodemann called for nominations for Treasurer of the Board of Education. Comm. Stottler moved to nominate Peter Severson as Treasurer. Hearing no further nominations, nominations were closed. The motion carried on an 8-0 vote. President Sodemann announced Peter Severson as Treasurer of the Board of Education.
President Sodemann called for nominations for Clerk of the Board of Education. Comm. P. Severson moved to nominate Lori Stottler as Clerk. Hearing no further nominations, nominations were closed. The motion carried on an 8-0 vote. President Sodemann announced Lori Stottler as Clerk of the Board of Education.

Board Members, Directors and Others Signing Standards of Professional Behavior. The board members, Superintendent and directors all signed the large placard of the Standards of Professional Behavior.

Board Recognition. Sheryl Miller introduced Tom Heiss, Parker technology education instructor, who serves as advisor to the Robotics Club. Mr. Heiss introduced representatives from UW Rock County, Epic Systems, Blackhawk Technical College, Automation Solutions of America and other Parker instructors who served as mentors to the students. The students showed a video they produced and demonstrated the robot they designed, built and entered in a national competition. First Robotics is offering the four seniors on the team the opportunity to apply for grants for college. President Sodemann presented the club with a Certificate of Outstanding Achievement. He also thanked the many individuals and corporate sponsors who provided financial assistance.

Citizen Comments. Maria Brown, 2816 Dakota Dr., said she is a Craig art teacher who is facing her second layoff. She said the layoff of nine art teachers will greatly impact the art program. She shared ten lessons which the arts teach.
Nicole Bauer, 728 Cornelia St., said she is a newer special education teacher at Parker. She said many of her students have extremely difficult home lives and school is often a safe place where they can escape for a little while the stress of their home lives. She said counselors and custodians are also very hard working staff. She wondered why the board would approve the custodial contract in February 2011 and then turn around and start discussing the possibility of making the positions part-time. She said the board needs to make a decision on how much of the Fund 10 balance they will use to help balance the budget and bring back some positions.
August Hohl, 546 S. Jackson St., said he appreciated the efforts the board has made to cut costs. He proposed selling passes to students for the City of Janesville buses to transport them to school. He felt the district could get by with fewer buses at a reduced rate. He felt this would also provide revenue for the City.

Student Representatives to the Board. Tessa Black, representing TAGOS Leadership Academy, said she likes learning through a project-based curriculum. She said she made poor choices in the traditional high school setting and got expelled. TAGOS gave her a second change and she is back on track and doing well. She now serves as a role model for the other students. Tessa said the advisors play an important role in helping students achieve.
Noelle Cox, representing Janesville Academy for International Studies, said the Wisconsin-Thailand Sunrise 2011 delegation of five students and a teacher from Thailand has been invited to visit their school April 26-May 11. The non-proliferation team will present at an international conference in California on April 28-30 with nine other teams from the US and 10 teams from Russia. Noelle said JAIS students are participating with high school and college students across the nation in reading Arabian Nights. The UW-Madison sponsored “ A Day in the Baltics” focusing on the three Baltic countries. Students also have had the benefit of learning from a number of guest speakers. Currently, the students are finalizing their capstone projects on a variety of subjects for presentation in May.

Consider Approval of Consent Agenda. Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. Hesselbacher, to: a. Approve and place on file the minutes of the April 12, 2011 regular board meeting; b. Resignations/Retirements. The teaching position resignation of Loredana Bruno, effective June 10, 2011; the support staff retirements of Theresa Lemke, effective June 10, 2011 and Ruth Robinson, effective June 16, 2011; and the teaching position retirements of Susan Douglas, Cheryl Heth, John Koebler, Sidney Larson, Mary Newton, Kathleen Peterson, and Jessica Southworth Bates, all effective June 10, 2011; c. Appointments. None; d. Approve 2011-12 student handbooks; e. Approve application for an ING Unsung Heroes Awards Program Grant for 2012 Summer School Course in the Amount of up to $27,000; f. Approve designation of depositories; g. Approve appointment of Keith Pennington as Assistant Board Treasurer; and h. Approve appointment of Nancy Hewes as Assistant Board Clerk. The motion carried on a 9-0 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Feldt, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sodemann and Stottler voting in the affirmative.

What’s Right in Education/Dashboard. Dr. Schulte said the district is a recipient of a $150,000 Wisconsin Technology Initiative Lighthouse District Grant from the Morgridge Foundation to purchase Smartboards, student response systems and document cameras. Upon qualification, the district will have the opportunity to apply for this grant again in the future. Through Positive Behavioral Intervention Strategies expulsions have dropped from 17 at this point last year to 7 this year.

Discussion and Consider Approval to Restructure Board of Education Standing Committees. a. Finance /Building and Grounds Committee and b. Personnel/Policy/Legislative/Curriculum Committee. President Sodemann noted that the board currently has four standing committees – Personnel, Finance, Buildings and Grounds, and Legislative. The executive team met and discussed restructuring them into two committees – Finance/Buildings and Grounds, and Personnel/Policy/Legislative/Curriculum. President Sodemann explained that changing the committee structure needs board approval according to Board Policy 8350. Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. Stottler, to approve two standing board committees -- Finance/Buildings and Grounds, and Personnel/Policy/Legislative/Curriculum. President Sodemann clarified that changes to board policies related to finance or buildings and grounds would go through that committee. All other policy changes would go through the other committee. The motion carried on a 9-0 vote.

Appointment of Committee Members. President Sodemann made the following appointments.
a. Finance/Buildings and Grounds Committee. He appointed Comm. Ardrey as chair of the Finance/Buildings and Grounds Committee with Comms. D. Severson, P. Severson and Dommershausen serving on that committee.
b. Personnel/Policy/Legislative/Curriculum Committee. He appointed Comm. Hesselbacher as chair of the Personnel/Policy/Legislative/Curriculum Committee with Comms. Murray, Stottler and Feldt as committee members.
d. CESA 2 Representative. Comm. P. Severson was appointed to continue as the CESA 2 representative.
e. Title I Representative. Comm. Dommershausen was appointed to continue as the Title I representative.
f. Tax Increment Finance District Representative. Comm. Murray was appointed to continue as the Tax Increment Finance District representative.
g. School Board Liaison to the Janesville Area Council-PTA. Comm. Hesselbacher was appointed to continue as the school board liaison to the Janesville Area Council-PTA.
h. Delegate and Alternate to 2012 WASB State Education Convention. Comm. Hesselbacher was appointed delegate to the Wisconsin Association of School Boards Delegate Assembly with Comm. Feldt as alternate.

Presentation of Assessment and Recommendations Regarding Transition Services for Students from Middle School to High School. Dr. Ehrhardt thanked Comm. P. Severson for asking for information on this topic. He said the effort to ensure that students have a smooth transition from middle school to high school involves the collaboration of curriculum, student services and special education departments beginning in the fall of each year. Dr. Ehrhardt said the change to middle schools was made in 1987. A specific transition plan was implemented in 2000. Dr. Ehrhardt explained that in the fall, high/middle school teams determine which students would benefit from being selected to participate in the block or school-within-a-school program. Dr. Cargile said in December/January, middle/high school counselors plan for orientation meetings and building tours. This gives eighth grade students a feel for what life is like at high school. Individual planning conferences are held for middle school students/parents in preparation for high school. In January students make their subject selections and develop a four-year plan. The high schools hold parent forums for accelerated programs. In the spring, information on middle school students is shared with high school staff.
Ms. Hilliker said students with disabilities are included in the planning. However because of explicit transition services mandated by state and federal law, additional services are provided to students through their Individualized Educational Programs (IEP). High school staff begin attending eighth grade IEP meetings in the fall so they are prepared for the students when they enter the high schools the following fall. High school transition facilitators go to the middle schools in January to help students choose their courses. In the spring, students with disabilities can visit the schools again if they so choose. Dr. Cargile explained that in April/May student 504 Plans are reviewed. High school schedules are generated and handed out.
Dr. Ehrhardt said during the last two weeks of school in May, upperclassmen from the Link Crews at each high school are assigned to an incoming freshman as an additional support to ease transition. Also during this time, members of the high school athletic department come to the middle schools to talk about the various sports programs. During Summer School there are course options for students who need an extra boost in math or reading. These transition services help students feel safe, secure and ready to be successful. Comm. Stottler asked about the chances of every student having an individual learning plan. She felt the district had a good grasp on the lower 10 percent and the upper 10 percent, but she was concerned about the 80 percent of children in the middle. Dr. Ehrhardt felt that was something the district could move toward. He said middle school students are given guidance in developing a career path plan.

Report on Curriculum-Based Assessment. Dr. Ehrhardt said everyone was pleased with the advancements students had made on the Wisconsin Knowledge and Concepts Examination state assessment. He felt the curriculum-based common assessments were responsible for a good deal of that increase. These exercises were done in reading, language arts and math in grades 2 through 10. They are done three times throughout the school year – fall, winter and spring. Dr. Ehrhardt said the CBA’s are developed by staff on what has been determined to be academic targets. Teachers look at the results of CBA data to see what students are doing well and where adjustments need to be made. This data is reviewed at grade, school and the district level. The CBA’s are a valid assessment tool that help students do well on the November WKCE and the April Measures of Academic Progress testing.

Update and Consider Possible Action on 2011-12 Proposed District Budget. Dr. Schulte noted that $5.8 million could be brought back into the budget if all employees chose to make the Wisconsin Retirement System and insurance contributions in 2011-12 called for in the budget repair law. Dr. Schulte reviewed the board approved budget cuts and increases to revenue to date. She also reviewed the remaining budget reduction suggestions. Presentations will give further details. Dr. Schulte said staff resignations/retirements have reduced the number of teacher layoffs and have reduced the budget deficit by $750,000. She also reduced the number of reductions for secretaries/clerks/aides. Dr. Schulte reviewed areas of suggested revenue. Dr. Schulte said with regard to reducing custodians to part-time for insurance savings, she did not get any direction at this time from the board to pursue that so she has taken it off the table for consideration. She also reviewed other areas of suggested reductions. Dr. Schulte said the 2011-12 budget reductions and revenue now totaled $10,602,222 of a $13.4 million deficit.
a. Presentation of 2011-12 Buildings and Grounds Capital Budget. Mr. Pennington said the board was provided with three different capital budget scenarios. One was a no cap zero-based budget; the second is based on maintaining the 2010-11 budget; and the third reflects the 2010-11 budget reduced by $1 million. Dave Leeder, Maintenance Supervisor, said there were two main budget areas for buildings and grounds/maintenance. One is the general operating budget for replacement and purchasing of new equipment. The other is the capital budget which includes required contracted maintenance. Projects under all three budgets have been assigned priority levels with priority 1 being immediate needs, priority 2 being pressing needs, and priority 3 having minimal impact. The total of all priorities for the no cap 2011-12 budget is $3,068,024. If the 2010-11 budget were to be maintained, it would total $1,152,739 with no priority 2 or 3 projects being done. If the 2010-11 budget were to be reduced by $1 million, the only priority projects remaining would be general contracted maintenance ($145,739) and ESCH annual fee ($17,000) for a total of $162,739. Mr. Leeder said the question is where does the board want to go from here. Comm. Feldt asked if the district has a capital improvement plan. Mr. Leeder said there is a five-year capital improvement plan. Comm. Stottler wondered about the wisdom of cutting the NAMI contract for monitoring the district’s equipment systems. Comm. Ardrey asked for a more detailed list of the projects.
b. Consider Cost of Upgrading Van Galder Bus Purchases to Three-Point Seat Belts. Mr. Pennington said the district received a letter from Van Galder Bus Company stating they would be taking delivery of 5 new large buses, 5 new mini-buses, and 1 new wheelchair bus in December 2011. In the contract with Van Galder, it states that they must have board approval before they purchase more than five buses in any one year. The mini and wheelchair buses come equipped with lap seat belts. In November 2009 the board approved having three-point seat belts on all future large bus purchases. The money to cover the additional cost of the three-point seat belts ($55,000) was taken from the Fund 10 balance. Mr. Pennington said none of the additional costs for installation of three-point seat belts has been included in the 2011-12 proposed budget. Comm. P. Severson moved, seconded by Comm. D. Severson, to approve the upgrade to three-point seat belts in the purchase of the five large buses only at a cost of $55,000. He also directed that the money come from the Fund 10 balance. Comm. Dommershausen felt the money should come from the general operating budget. Comm. Ardrey commented that when the three-point seat belts were approved in 2009,l it was a one-time use of the Fund 10. He asked if this would now be a recurring expenditure. Comm. P. Severson felt it was a one-time expense. The motion carried on a 6-3 vote with Comms. Feldt, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson and Sodemann. Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen and Stottler voted in opposition.
c. Analysis of Custodial Time on Task and Space. Steve Eichman, Manager of Purchasing, Transportation and Custodial, said he was asked by Dr. Schulte to reassess the cleaning of the district’s buildings by re-evaluating the square footage each custodian is responsible for cleaning each day and still maintain the level of cleanliness expected. He looked at the five-tiered level of cleaning expectations recommended by the Planning Guide for Maintaining School Facilities to be cleaned in an eight-hour period. Mr. Eichman said he focused on levels 2, 3 and 4 in his re-evaluation. Level 3 is the norm for most school facilities. While his preference would be to retain the current staffing levels, Mr. Eichman felt the reduction of 10 custodians is feasible. This suggested reduction would place the level of cleanliness at or slightly below level 3 for the elementary schools and within 10 percent of level 3 for the secondary schools. The current range is slightly above level 2 at the elementary schools and slightly above the level 3 range for the secondary schools. A reduction of 10 custodians will affect the secondary schools less than the elementary schools. On the whole, the district would be just above the high range of level 3 cleaning at 31,155 sq. ft. if the custodial staff were to be reduced by 10. He felt the schools would remain reasonably clean and sanitary.
Comm. Stottler left the meeting at 8:45 p.m.
President Sodemann asked if this suggested reduction would take place after July 1, 2011 or before. Mr. Eichman said in talking with Dr. Schulte it would start earlier rather than later. Mr. Eichman said he did not anticipate that this proposed reduction would increase overtime costs. He said there are tools and processes that can make custodians more efficient, but it is still labor intensive. Comm. D. Severson moved, seconded by Comm. Ardrey, to approve the reduction of the custodial staff by 10 FTE as presented. The motion carried on an 8-0 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Feldt, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson and Sodemann voting in the affirmative.
d. Presentation of Proposed Reductions for Middle School Athletics. Bob Krause, athletic director at Edison Middle School, said there are five main seasons with 14 sports being offered. Jameson Pajerski, athletic director at Franklin Middle School, they have about 1,200 middle school students participating in a no-cut program. Academic progress is monitored and this gives students a chance to try out various after-school sports under the supervision of certified staff. Tom Imhoff, athletic director at Marshall Middle School, said there are currently 83 coaches at the three middle schools. They propose a reduction to 54 coaches in 2011-12 for a savings of $67,954 in salary and benefits. The middle schools are also proposing a participation fee of $30 per student and $15 for students qualifying for free/reduced lunch. There are currently no participation fees for middle school sports. This will generate $36,000 in additional revenue based on 2010-11 participation rates. Athletic surcharges are also being proposed for 2011-12. A football helmet and shoulder pads reconditioning fee of $30 is being proposed. Also being proposed is a $90 golf surcharge for course usage. A cost savings of $16,000 would be realized with the proposed elimination of the middle school intramural program. They are also giving consideration to eliminating tennis. These proposed reductions and revenues represent a savings of 57 percent over the 2010-11 middle school athletic budget. Comm. P. Severson asked whether community members could volunteer to coach middle school intramurals. Dr. Sperry said a certified instructor is required for liability reasons to be employed as a head coach. A volunteer may be able to assist a head coach. Comm. D. Severson moved, seconded by Comm. Murray, to accept all recommendations as presented by the middle school athletic directors. The motion carried on an 8-0 vote with Comms.

The board took a 5-minute recess.

e. Update on Proposed Reductions for High School Athletics. Dr. Sperry said the athletic directors were looking at not only reducing the athletic budget but also proposing some ideas to increase revenue. He introduced high school athletic directors Monte Phillips from Craig and Rick Lehman from Parker who reviewed previous budget reductions ($60,300) and revenue generating proposals ($104,834) approved by the board. Mr. Lehman presented a proposal to increase student season athletic passes from $20 to $30. This would result in a net revenue increase of $13,310 based on 2010-11 numbers. If a student purchased an individual ticket to 60 home events it would cost $180.
Mr. Phillips said at a previous board meeting the board heard several girls’ co-op hockey parents offer to pay transportation costs to save the program. The proposal is that transportation will not be provided by the School District of Janesville for the girls’ hockey co-op and the parent/driver will accept all of the liability during transporting of student/athletes. This will result in a savings of $1,731.28.
Mr. Lehman explained proposed athletic surcharges on sports programs that use facilities outside of district-owned facilities. Surcharges will be assessed for special equipment charges and will be based on the previous year’s cost and the total number of players from the previous year within the district program. Students who qualify for free and reduced lunch will qualify for a waived or reduced fee. Mr. Phillips said a surcharge for both boys’ and girls’ hockey of $600 was being proposed based on use and cost of ice time. This would result in a net revenue increase of $25,200.
Mr. Lehman said a $65 surcharge is being proposed for high school football players for helmet reconditioning. Based on 300 students participating last year, this would result in a net revenue increase of $19,500.
Mr. Phillips presented a baseball and softball facility surcharge of $23. Based on 120 students participating last year, this would result in a net revenue increase of $2,760.
Mr. Lehman presented a boys’ and girls’ golf surcharge of $150 to cover course fees. Based on 100 students participating last year, this would result in a net revenue increase of $15,000.
Students qualifying for reduced lunch would now pay a reduced fee of $15 instead of $10. Students who qualify for free lunch will have athletic fees and surcharges waived.
The net total of previously approved reductions and increased revenue ($165,134) plus the proposed increase in student passes ($13,310) and surcharges ($64,191.18) is $242,635.28.
Comm. D. Severson said no other parents from any other athletic programs stepped forward to offer to pay the cost of any part of a particular program as did the girls’ hockey co-op team parents. Thus, he did not think he could support that recommendation. Comm. D. Severson moved, seconded by Comm. Ardrey, to accept all recommendations presented by the high school athletic directors with the exception of parents paying transportation costs of $1,731.28 for the girls’ hockey co-op program. Comm. Feldt asked if the district might price itself out of hockey teams with the $600 surcharge. Mr. Phillips said he would have to wait and see next year. Comm. Dommershausen asked if some students might decide not to transfer to Janesville to play hockey if the surcharge is too high. He felt the district could lose not only the surcharge but also the state aid. President Sodemann noted that there were no figures for students who qualified for reduced or waived fees. Mr. Phillips said last year at Craig there were 13 reduced fees and 60 waived fees. Mr. Lehman said there were 15 reduced and 131 waived fees. Comm. D. Severson requested that the surcharges and fees be revised on an annual basis. Comm. Felt noted that fees are waived for senior citizens to attend all events. He asked if that were true for other Big 8 schools. Jaimi Jensen felt $225 was a lot of money to pay in participation fees for three sports ($75 x 3 = $225). She asked if thought had been given to reducing the fee for participating in the third sport.
Comm. Sodemann moved, seconded by Comm. Murray, to amend the motion to include parents paying the $1,731.28 transportation cost for the girls’ hockey co-op program as presented by the high school athletic directors in all the recommendations. The amendment carried on a 6-2 vote with Comms. Dommershausen, Feldt, Hesselbacher, Murray, P. Severson and Sodemann voting in the affirmative. Comms. Ardrey and D. Severson voted in opposition.
The main motion, as amended, to include parents paying the $1,731.28 transportation cost for the girls’ hockey co-op program as presented by the high school athletic directors in all the recommendations carried on a 7-1 vote with Comms. Dommershausen, Feldt, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson and Sodemann voting in the affirmative. Comm. Ardrey voted in opposition.
f. Consider Recommendation of a Potential Fund Balance Amount to be Used by Administration in the 2011-12 Operating Budget Preparation Process. Comm. D. Severson moved, seconded by Comm. Murray, to propose that administration use for budget preparation for 2011-12 up to $3.4 million from the Fund 10 balance. President Sodemann noted that might require changing Board Policy 3320 before the budget is finally adopted. Mr. Pennington stated that Board Policy 3320 required a reserve for cash flow of 17-23 percent, a self funded medical claims stabilization reserve of 20-25 percent, and another category for carryover funds. Mr. Pennington said he is currently forecasting that use of $3,250,000 to help balance the 2011-12 budget would still be within the current board policy percentages. Comm. Dommershausen said that would not cover a current gap of $4 million. He passed out a chart showing a five-year history of month-end Fund 10 balances. He also passed out a list of ideas for fund raising. He felt the board may be looking at a referendum down the road. President Sodemann summarized that the total 2011-12 budget deficit is $13.4 million. There is a motion on the floor to use up to $3.4 million from the Fund 10 balance leaving a $10 million shortfall. Dr. Schulte has presented reductions totaling has a $10.6 million total, but $1.2 is not being recommended as of yet. That leaves a total of $9.4 in reductions to date on her list. The $9.4 million does include the reinstatement of approximately 50 teachers. Comm. Hesselbacher said the reductions list still includes a $1 million reduction in the maintenance capital budget. Comm. P. Severson moved, seconded by Comm. Ardrey, moved to amend the motion to substitute $3.25 million. The amendment failed on a 4-4 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Feldt, P. Severson and Sodemann voting in the affirmative. Comms. Dommershausen, Hesselbacher, Murray and D. Severson voted in opposition.

Comm. Hesselbacher moved, seconded by Comm. Murray, to amend the motion to substitute up to $4.75 million. The amendment failed on a 3-5 vote with Comms. Dommershausen, Hesselbacher and Murray voting in the affirmative. Comms. Ardrey, Feldt, D. Severson, P. Severson and Sodemann voted in opposition.
Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. Hesselbacher, to amend the motion to substitute up to $4 million. The amendment failed on a 3-5 vote with Comms. Dommershausen, Hesselbacher and Murray voting in the affirmative. Comms. Ardrey, Feldt, D. Severson, P. Severson and Sodemann voted in opposition.
The original motion to propose that administration use for budget preparation for 2011-12 up to $3.4 million from the Fund 10 balance carried on a 5-3 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Feldt, Murray, D. Severson and Sodemann. Comms. Dommershausen, Hesselbacher and P. Severson voted in opposition. President Sodemann determined that the remaining budget reduction suggestions would be postponed to the next board meeting.

Announcements. Dr. Schulte said the schools will be participating in the Rock County/YWCA Stand Against Racism on April 29, 2011.

Future Board Agenda Items. None

Adjournment Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. Hesselbacher, to adjourn at 10:45 p.m. The motion carried on an 8-0 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Feldt, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson and Sodemann voting in the affirmative.

________________________________
Nancy M. Hewes, Assistant Board Clerk
Janesville Board of Education

Special Board of Education Meeting
Educational Services Center
April 20, 2011
6:05 p.m.

Commissioners Present: Ardrey, Dommershausen, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sheridan, Sodemann and Stottler.

Others Present: Karen Schulte, District Administrator; Stephen Sperry, Director of Administrative and Human Services; Keith Pennington, Chief Financial Officer; Kim Ehrhardt, Director of Instructional Services; Barbara Hilliker, Director of Special Education; Yolanda Cargile, Director of At-Risk and Multicultural Programs; and Scott Feldt, Commissioner-elect.

President Sodemann called to order the special board meeting which was duly noticed on April 14, 2011 through posting and notification of the press in accordance with §19.84.

Discussion and Possible Action on Board Structure, Methods, Processes and Policies. President Sodemann stated that the board officers met on April 2, 2011 to discuss some ideas on how the board could be more effective and productive. Comm. Sheridan distributed a memo summarizing the meeting and five areas of suggestions for board consideration.
Possible change of board meeting agendas/procedures. Comm. Sheridan said the officers discussed how much time is allotted for discussion on agenda items. Each board member should be given the opportunity to voice their opinion and finish their comments before another board member is allowed to speak. She said President Sodemann has done a good job of making sure each board member has had an opportunity to speak before allowing a member to speak a second time on the same agenda item.
Board/Administration communication. Comm. Sheridan said all communication and requests for information should go through Dr. Schulte. The officers felt it was difficult for the Superintendent to communicate with nine different board members.

Possible change of board meeting agendas/procedures. President Sodemann reviewed a list of suggestions regarding board discussion that he had prepared. The list included: Addressing each other as well as guest speakers with respect; never attack the person, always discuss the issue or question at hand; do not assume someone’s motivation as to why they expresses a certain opinion or position on a subject – just discuss the facts of the issue; treat each issue on its own merits – do not allow a board member’s position on a pervious issue to affect a current issue; watch body language; discuss whether board members should address each other formally or informally during board meetings; it is okay to be passionate about an issue, but do not raise your voice at someone; allow each board member the opportunity to speak once on an issue before speaking a second or third time; and keep proper meeting order and do not interrupt others who “have the floor.” President Sodemann said he was open to other suggestions or feedback from board members.
Comm. Sheridan said she did not want the public to think that board members did not care about agenda items if they did not speak on each agenda item.
President Sodemann raised the question of how board members should address each other. Comm. Stottler asked if the board was required to use more formal language because it adopted Roberts Rules of Order. Attorney Moore said it is up to the board’s discretion how they address each other. The rules are not so strict with regard to small boards. The decision to use formal or informal forms of address was left to the discretion of each board member.

Committee structure. President Sodemann reviewed the current structure of having four standing committees: Personnel, Finance, Buildings and Grounds, and Legislative. Since last May, there have been fewer committee meetings, but they have functioned to do more in-depth research. President Sodemann said it was the recommendation of the officers that the board have only two standing committees and that they meet at a set time on the first or third Tuesday of each month. Under this plan, a board member would serve on only one committee, not two. He suggested having a Finance/Buildings and Grounds Committee and also a Personnel/Curriculum/Legislative/Policy Committee. Comm. P. Severson said all board members would receive a committee informational packet for review. The committee minutes would be included in the board packet for the next scheduled board meeting. Comm. Sheridan felt this structure would lead to easier scheduling and allow board members to attend each committee meeting if they so desired. Comm. D. Severson requested that the rest of the board be notified in advance of any future executive committee meetings. Comm. Stottler felt the public has the opportunity to attend open committee meetings, watch them on cable TV, or watch streaming video of the meeting on the Internet. She said citizens could refer back to archived committee meeting videos. Comm. Stottler felt board members could really focus in on committee agenda items and this may shorten regular board meetings. Comm. D. Severson expressed concern that the proposed committee restructuring not curtail debate in any way at the regular board meeting. Comm. Murray said he would rather leave the committee meeting day and time up to the discretion of the chair and members of that particular committee. Comm. Dommershausen suggested forming a Personnel/Curriculum Committee and a Legislative/Policy Committee.

Board/Administration communication. Dr. Schulte said she has given this topic a lot of thought since the last board communication survey. Communication is a serious concern and she would like to make some changes. Dr. Schulte said she would be open to discontinuing the old model of channeling all board member inquires for information through her. She would be open to having board members direct their questions to any of the Directors with her being copied on the requests. However, the directors are very busy people and how would this be monitored. Comm. Ardrey felt that a lot of questions could be vetted out in committee work if they met at scheduled times as proposed. Scott Feldt and Comm. D. Severson felt the board should be flexible in their communication with directors. They felt the directors should decide if they should respond to the entire board or just the board member who asked the question. Dr. Sperry felt it would be helpful if the board member asking the question give the director an idea of the priority of their request. Comm. Stottler felt the directors would have to be forthright with their work load and timeliness in being able to respond to the request. Comm. D. Severson felt this new model should be put on Dr. Schulte’s communication survey. He and Mr. Feldt felt it might just take some time to get used to the new model. Dr. Schulte said she would like a more definitive answer from the board as to what a 5 or a 4 on the Superintendent’s communication survey looks like. She also has the same question with regard to responsiveness to board members. President Sodemann suggested that each board member schedule an appointment to talk with Dr. Schulte at least once a year. Comm. Stottler suggested that Dr. Schulte communicate with the entire board.

Board development. President Sodemann felt that in future years, this type of board development discussion session should be scheduled for early May with both current and new board members – perhaps a session similar to a mini leadership development initiative. The meeting would give new board members a chance to get to know the current members, review and recommit to Standards of Professional Behavior, and consider policy adjustments that may need to be made. Comm. P. Severson felt the executive committee should perhaps meet more often to make sure the board is running efficiently. Comm. Stottler felt the executive committee should consist of the President, Vice President and the two committee chairs.

Other items of discussion. Comm. D. Severson asked what the driver was to give the executive committee more authority. Comm. Sheridan said due to time constraints, sometimes the board President offers advice and then gets attacked. She thought it might be easier for Dr. Schulte to communicate with an executive committee and they could each call a board member to pass along a message. President Sodemann suggested having a “Frequently Asked Questions” section on the district website to counteract misinformation. He also suggested holding a meeting for people who want to run for school board before they formally fill out candidacy papers. This meeting would inform potential candidates on the general role and responsibilities of being a school board member. Another meeting could be held in January to give more detailed information to those individuals who choose to become formal candidates and have their name on the ballot. Mr. Feldt asked about Board Policy 8321, School Board President Duties. He noted that it does not state that the school board President sets the board agenda. He felt that it should state that the school board President would set the agenda with the advice of the Superintendent. Comm. Stottler asked that the board policies that were at each board member’s place be referred to the Personnel/Curriculum/Legislative/Policy Committee for review.
President Sodemann noted that Board Policy 8390 addresses student representatives to the board. It allows them to give student information reports and enter into discussion on scheduled agenda items. President Sodemann asked if the right to enter into discussion should be extended to student representatives of the charter schools and to the three union representatives who attend the board meetings. He felt this merited further discussion at a future meeting. Comm. D. Severson asked that the board discuss the issue tonight. Comm. D. Severson said he would not allow student reps to speak at all during the course of the regular board meeting because they were not an elected official. He felt they were only one of many stakeholders. He noted that the three union people represent staff that accounts for over 80 percent of the district’s budget and yet are not allowed to speak during the course of the regular board meeting. Comm. D. Severson felt the board members are elected officials whose duty it is to speak on behalf of the citizens who elected them. He felt the Conversations Toward Excellence open public listening sessions, the diversity sessions, and the Citizens Comment portion of the board agenda were good ways to get citizen input. Mr. Feldt thought student representatives should have a non-voting seat at the table according to current board policy. He felt other individuals have an opportunity to speak during Citizen Comments. He felt that same opportunity could be extended to the student representatives. Jaimi Jensen, Parker High School student representative, said she gets a full scope of information from all board members. Comm. Stottler supported having student reps because the students reap the benefits of the board’s decisions. She felt union reps were elected by outside organizations. Comm. Murray said he was not comfortable having student reps being allowed to ask questions during the board meeting. He thought the student reps and union reps should be available if the board would like to ask them questions. In response to Comm. D. Severson, Jaimi said the Student Leadership Council meets each Wednesday morning. The meetings are open to the entire student body. A report from the student rep to the board is always on the SLC agenda.  President Sodemann referred this matter and Board Policy 8390 to the Personnel/Curriculum/Legislative/Policy Committee to review. He suggested they might consider representation at the committee level versus the board level and how it is treated with respect to other individuals. He felt the President had to be very careful when asking questions of the various representatives. He felt they should be limited to informational-based questions as opposed to opinions.

Update on Boundary Lines Committee, Discussion Regarding Future Directives and Possible Action. Chairperson Ardrey reviewed how the committee members were chosen and who the members of the committee are. The board’s Buildings and Grounds Committee Chairperson serves as Chair. According to Board Policy 5130, “in determining the home school areas of the District, the neighborhood school concept shall be preserved as long as it shall be practicable.” Prior to February 2, 2009, the committee had not met for about 10 years.

The proposed timeline is as follows: May 2011, committee starts weekly meetings;
July 1, 2011, preliminary evaluation due to Buildings and Grounds Committee;
July 1-31, 2011, Committee and school board gather community input;
August 15, 2011, Complete school evaluations with recommendation for up to three schools for
detailed analysis of student placement for 2012-2013;
September 1, 2011, Preliminary recommendation due to Buildings and Grounds Committee; September 2011, Conduct public hearings;
October 1, 2011, Final recommendation to school board;
January 1, 2012, Committee recommends updated boundary lines based on the plan approved by the school board.
The scope of the premises to be evaluated will be based on the school board charge and direction. It will include efficient use of school capacity and resources; no high/middle school closings; demographic driven – declining enrollment. Chairperson Ardrey said the committee would work in an objective manner. Decisions would be data based. Staff resource groups will assist with data gathering and research. Chairperson Ardrey reviewed a potential list of high, medium and low priority criteria which would be applied to all elementary schools and ranked by the committee. Chairperson Ardrey suggested providing frequent updates to the media. He also felt building use should be reviewed on an annual basis.
Comm. P. Severson said he has served on the DPI Boundary Lines Appeal Board and told of the process for petitioning to change school district boundary lines. Comm. Dommershausen felt the committee should consider moving sixth grade back to the elementary schools, keeping seventh and eighth grades at the middle school level, and moving the ESC, TAGOS, and Rock River Charter School into one of the middle schools. He felt the middle school philosophy could be maintained, it would raise money for the district, and it would keep the neighborhood concept. Comm. Hesselbacher felt the board should ultimately make a decision that the district can live with for the next 20-30 years. Comm. Hesselbacher asked if committee membership could be opened up again. She felt there should be parent representation from all parts of the city – not just eastside parents. Comm. D. Severson said the committee members were the only ones who responded to a public invitation to serve on the committee. Comm. P. Severson felt the committee should open up the two vacant member spots to new members.
Comm. Murray volunteered to serve on a task force for repurposing building use. President Sodemann felt it might be worth looking Comm. Dommershausen’s suggestion of closing/reallocating a middle school. Dr. Sperry said he was not sure that either Franklin or Edison in combination with Marshall would have the capacity to house all seventh and eighth grade students. He said enrollment would be tight and not take into consideration any growth. President Sodemann asked what direction Chairperson Ardrey needed from the board. Chairperson Ardrey said board members needed to look at the suggested criteria. Comm. Murray suggested adding the size of cafeterias and kitchen facilities. Comm. Stottler said she would like to see another board member appointed to this committee.
Comm. Sheridan moved, seconded by Comm. Murray, to approve the proposed timeline estimates and starting criteria points. The motion carried on an 8-0-1 vote with Comms. Dommershausen, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sheridan, Sodemann and Stottler. Comm. Ardrey abstained from voting.

Adjournment. Comm. Sheridan moved, seconded by Comm. Stottler, to adjourn at 9:15 p.m. The motion carried on a 9-0 vote.

_________________________________
Nancy M. Hewes, Assistant Board Clerk
Janesville Board of Education

Janesville Board of Education Meeting
Educational Services Center
April 12, 2011
6:34 p.m.

Commissioners present: Ardrey, Dommershausen, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson (arrived at 7:20 p.m.), P. Severson, Sheridan, Sodemann and Stottler.

President Sodemann called the regular meeting to order which was duly noticed on April 8, 2011 through posting and notification of the press in accordance with Wisconsin §19.84.

Karen Suarez of Franklin Middle School led the Pledge of Allegiance.

Resolution Honoring Commissioner Sheridan. President Sodemann read a resolution honoring board member Peggy Sheridan on behalf of the Board of Education for her three years of service. He said Comm. Sheridan has served as Chair of the Personnel Committee. She has also served as a member of the Buildings and Grounds/Finance Committee and the Buildings and Grounds Committee. Comm. Sheridan was the board’s voting delegate at the Wisconsin Association of School Boards State Convention. President Sodemann said Comm. Sheridan has advocated for comprehensive public school programs/policies which support student achievement, staff development, and parental and community involvement. Comm. Sheridan co-led the establishment of the Comm-Unity sessions to support and promote the involvement of minority students and families. On behalf of the board, President Sodemann thanked Comm. Sheridan for the contribution of her time, talents, and leadership to serve the students and staff of the district as well as the community. President Sodemann presented Comm. Sheridan with an engraved leaf for her dedicated service to students and a certificate from WASB. Comm. Sheridan thanked the voters for giving her the opportunity to serve.

Citizen Comments. Mike Rundle, 4109 Orion Drive, is serving as co-chair of the Save Janesville Schools steering committee fundraising effort to help close the district’s 2011-12 budget deficit. He said the Community Foundation of Southern Wisconsin will handle the financial aspects of the committee. Mr. Rundle said this effort is to raise money to bring back positions and programs to best suit the needs of students. He said the committee has a Website and will be prepared to accept donations by April 15. The committee hopes to have a large amount of money raised by June 1. Mr. Rundle said the school board and administration will be given wide latitude to decide how to best use the money. He will provide the board with periodic updates. All donations will be tax deductible. Comm. Stottler asked if individuals could request that their donation be used in a specific, designated manner. Mr. Rundle said if a donor wishes to request a specific use of their donation, they should do that through the district’s Excellence in Education Foundation.
Rita Gipp, 2211 E. Milwaukee St., a technology education teacher at Marshall, told of the many duties that library media specialists perform. She highlighted how they not only trouble shoot problems related to technology, but how they also help teachers in the delivery of classroom instruction. Library media specialists help teach students how to research projects and also inform instructors of and teach them how to use various software programs.

Ted Kinnaman, 1213 Columbus Cir., said he has been involved in education for many years but had strong reservations about charter schools back when he served as a school board member. He quoted research done by Diane Ravitch which claims that 17 percent of charter school students demonstrate results that are superior to students in traditional public schools. Another 46 percent of charter students are equal in achievement to students in traditional schools. He said Ms. Ravitch is also very critical of the No Child Left Behind federal legislation because of its emphasis on math and reading. She feels that science, art, music, geography and literature are also important parts of the curriculum. Mr. Kinnaman urged board members to take a second look at charter schools.
Kathy Murray, 4218 Lansing Dr., told of the duties of learning support teachers. She said most of them also have the separate certification as reading specialists. Ms. Murray said many learning support teachers serve as the building assistant when the principal is out of the building. They help write plans for students who are struggling as well as those who are exceeding grade level expectations. She said there is a higher level of poverty in Janesville than in the past, but it is not an excuse for not achieving. Learning support teachers are involved in writing curriculum, planning with teachers, serving as a resource, helping with collaboration and data meetings, and assisting with writing curriculum based assessments among many other duties.
Colin Murdy, 2506 Linden Ave., felt the future of the country rests in the hands of honor students. He lamented that some of the honors courses were cut. He also stated that bright students need counselors to help them get the classes they need for college. Without counselors, he felt bright students will leave the district to find the services they need elsewhere.

Administration of Oath of Office to Newly Elected Board Members. Ms. Hewes, Assistant Board Clerk, administered the Oath of Office to incumbents Kevin Murray and Bill Sodemann and new board member Scott Feldt who were all elected to three-year terms.

Student Representatives to the Board. Jaimi Jensen, representing Parker High School, said the American Cancer Society Relay for Life was held this past weekend and was very successful with over $23,000 being raised. Last Wednesday was “Paint Parker Purple” as part of this event. Key Club sponsored a food drive along with a Viking Student Credit Union fundraiser to benefit the Parker Closet. National Honor Society is sponsoring a Red Cross blood drive on April 15. The Green Squad is planning their annual Earth Day campus clean up. The music department’s production of “Into the Woods” was so well received that another weekend’s performances had to be added. This year’s prom is April 30 with the theme Rendezvous in Paris. The Academic Awards program is scheduled for April 18. Solo and ensemble participants have advanced to state level competition on April 30. The All-City Strings concert will take place tomorrow. Parker students will be participating in the State Forensics competition is this weekend.
Rachel Philipps, Craig High School representative, noted that the Craig Girls’ Basketball team made it to the finals this year. She said 50 members have been inducted into National Honor Society. The Academic Recognition program was held at the end of March. Cesar Chavez Day was celebrated. A Day Without Shoes was a great activity. This inspired members of the Future Educators Club to do a “Soles 4 Souls” shoe drive. Through Pace for Parkinson’s, $3,500 was raised to combat Parkinson’s disease. A throw-back Rec Night raised $3,000 for an outdoor graduation ceremony with fireworks, senior gift and scholarships. Freshman orientation is set for April 13. The Reality Check activity is scheduled for April 28. The spring drama production will be “Anne of Green Gables” on April 28-30. Craig music students will also participate in the State Solo and Ensemble competition April 30. The Craig Wall of Honor inductees will be Chief of Police David Moore, former social studies teacher Frank Douglas, and politician/attorney M. Robert Carr. The Craig Talent Show will be held May 7.
President Sodemann explained that student representatives will be given the opportunity to take a more active role in board discussion as outlined in Board Policy 8390. This will be piloted for the remainder of this year.

Consider Approval of Consent Agenda a. Approve minutes of March 31, 2011 regular board meeting; b. Receive and file fund summary report. Revenues in the aggregate for March 2011 were $18,659,175 and aggregate expenditures were $16,237,120. c. Resignations/Retirements. Chairperson Sodemann noted the administrative position retirement of Kori Hartman, Principal of Van Buren Elementary, effective June 23, 2011; the teaching position retirement of Karen O’Leary, Ken Anclam, Roseann Froemming, Terese Krajco, Robert Luchsinger and Joellyn Richgels, all effective June 10, 2011; and the support staff position retirement of Deborah Goad, Food Service Manager, effective September 30, 2011. d. Appointments. None. e. Approve planning grant application for three new charter schools -- $750,000 over three years for each of the following schools: Madison, Jackson and Van Buren elementary schools; f. Approve TAGOS Leadership Academy dissemination renewal grant in the amount of $125,000.
Comm. Dommershausen asked to have item e. removed from the consent agenda. Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. Dommershausen, to approve a. minutes of the March 31, 2011 regular board meeting; b. receive and file fund summary report. Revenues in the aggregate for March 2011 were $18,659,175 and aggregate expenditures were $16,237,120. c. resignations and retirements as listed; d. approve TAGOS Leadership Academy dissemination renewal grant in the amount of $125,000; with the exception of item e. on the consent agenda. The motion carried on an 8-0 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Hesselbacher, Murray, P. Severson, Sheridan, Sodemann and Stottler voting in the affirmative.
Comm. Dommershausen said he was supportive of charter schools if properly implemented. He noted the shift toward charter schools. Comm. Dommershausen said these three grants would bring revenue into the district. He felt the board needed to keep in mind pending legislation that would allow private entities to form charter schools. Comm. Dommershausen moved, seconded by Comm. Ardrey, to approve item e. planning grant application for three new charter schools -- $750,000 over three years for each of the following schools: Madison, Jackson and Van Buren elementary schools. The motion carried on an 8-0 vote.

Presentation on Pilot Project of Scheduling Recess Before Lunch at Wilson Elementary School. Jessica Grandt-Turke, a social worker at Wilson, presented in Principal Becky Bicha’s absence. Ms. Grandt-Turke said this pilot project was part of Wilson’s comprehensive Positive Behavioral Intervention and Supports (PBIS) plan and they have seen fantastic results. Some of the reasons for this pilot project were: students were rushing through lunch, students were slow to line up after recess; there were more behavioral issues at the end of recess; and academic time was lost solving disputes. In looking at office discipline referrals, data showed almost eight days of instructional time was lost dealing with lunch related disciplinary referrals. In addition, six days of instructional time was lost when the disciplinary team had to become involved. The PBIS team decided to pilot having the students go to recess first and then come in for lunch. The improvements noted were: no hurrying to eat lunch; students were hungrier, less wasted food; and everyone leaves at the same time. Students had time to cool down over lunch and playground disputes could be investigated during lunch rather than during class time. Under this plan, students were always under the supervision of an adult. Students have the option of staying inside to get extra help. Administrators are not being called out to the playground daily. Ms. Grandt-Turke told of the gains students made in their WKCE and Measures of Academic Progress assessments. A short video was shown with testimonials from students and teachers. Comm. P. Severson said he brought this idea forward and was glad to see that Wilson has such success. He hoped other elementary schools would consider adopting this. Dr. Sperry said the success of this pilot will be shared at the elementary principal’s meeting this week.

Textbook and Textbook Adoption Review. Kim Ehrhardt said Comm. Stottler asked for an explanation of the impact of the textbook reduction for this current year and the proposed reduction for 2011-12. Dr. Ehrhardt said a summary memo and an instructional materials adoption cycle chart was included in the board packet. Dr. Ehrhardt said the district had been able to follow the cycle through 2009-10 and purchase the materials indicated. Last year the board voted to make a $100,000 cut in the 2010-11 textbook adoption cycle. The two main content areas targeted for textbook adoption in 2010-11 were middle school social studies and high school science. The curriculum committees revised and pared down their textbook requests. One-third of the original middle school social studies request was filled, particularly in the seventh grade area. At the high school level, chemistry textbooks appear to need replacement.
For 2011-12, elementary communication arts, middle school science, high school counseling, art and career & technology, and AP music theory are scheduled for consideration. The current middle school science materials should be adequate for several more years. Through federal stimulus funds, local funds and grants, elementary communication arts are set for a couple of years. Materials for AP music theory were purchased two years ago when music labs were built through the referendum. Replacement of high school counseling, art, and career and technology resource materials could be delayed. The district has been moving toward using more free online instructional materials to help keep the curriculum up to date.
Comm. Stottler asked how the district determines if the online resources are credible. Dr. Ehrhardt said internal curriculum teams review them as well as external reviews to make sure the materials meet state standards.

President Sodemann called a five-minute recess.

Overview of Short-Term Borrowing. Mr. Pennington said there had been interest expressed by specific board members for information on short-term borrowing. He said a district would face short-term borrowing when it did not have enough cash to pay for day-to-day recurring expenses. He said a large percentage of school districts are faced with short-term borrowing out of necessity, not by design. There are several statutory requirements. All money borrowed must be used during the fiscal year in which it is borrowed for immediate operating expenses. The amount borrowed is limited to one-half the estimated current year operation and maintenance receipts. All short-term money borrowed must be repaid by November 1 of the following year. Mr. Pennington explained that the most critical cash flow period for the School District of Janesville is between March 20 and June 20. Board policy requires that any borrowing must be approved by a resolution at a regular board meeting. However, the resolution may not be passed until after the tax levy is voted upon. The resolution must be specific and all terms must be included. While a loan could be made at a variable rate, the resolution must have a stated maximum rate. Mr. Pennington noted that the district has not had to do any short-term borrowing since 2001. Mr. Pennington felt that reducing the cash balance to the level of needing short-term borrowing would greatly weaken the financial strength of the district and its financial ratings. Student representative Jaimi Jensen asked if any similar size districts do short-term borrowing and if so, what has been their course of action to get out of it. Mr. Pennington said he would check with other districts. President Sodemann asked if there were up-front costs associated with short-term borrowing in addition to the interest expense. Mr. Pennington said yes, but not as great as for a bond offering.

Update and Consider Possible Action on 2011-12 Proposed District Budget. Mr. Pennington gave a brief review of those items the board has addressed, what needs further discussion, and what the board needs to consider at the April 26 board meeting. He said a new Rock River Charter School lease is being drafted with a reduced rent. He said on April 6, 2011 the board authorized the issuance of 130.97 layoff notices to teachers. Dr. Sperry noted that the Parker High School Principal position has been posted and 17 applications have been received. He said administration is still considering having a shared principal for Harrison and Kennedy elementary schools. Openings for the position of principal at Adams and Wilson will be posted. Dr. Sperry said administration may consider hiring retired principals. The other employee reduction positions have not yet been addressed. Mr. Pennington said administration will bring additional information to the board on April 26 regarding middle school and high school athletics, custodial services, swimming pools, small appliance fees, building/maintenance capital projects, TAGOS rent, extra weeks for counselors and program support teachers, stipends and student workbook fees.
Comm. Murray asked when the board would have to make a decision about using Fund 10 money. He understood that June 1 was the target date for professional staff recalls. Mr. Pennington said he did not think there was a deadline date. Comm. Murray asked if board members could determine how some of the Fund 10 money could be used. Dr. Sperry said there has been discussion about having the possible use of Fund 10 money on the April 26 board agenda. Comm. Murray said the district spends $10,687 on Wisconsin Association of School Boards dues. He asked for a list of how much the district spends on professional memberships to all other organizations. Comm. Stottler asked that Mr. Pennington speak with the directors to quantify the value of the membership and the consequences of any reductions. Student representative Jaimi Jensen asked if there was any assurance that any part of the Fund 10 balance used would go toward restoration of teacher positions – especially counselors because they are vital to students. Board President Sodemann said that would be discussed in April and May.
Discussion and Consider Approval on the Make Up of the Strategic Planning Committee. President Sodemann asked for suggestions on how the committee should be designed and the composition of committee membership. Comm. Stottler thanked former principal Mike Kuehne for volunteering to lead this process and bringing it back as a board priority. Comm. Hesselbacher said there was a list of individuals who served on the last committee. She would like to suggest adding a representative from a local college or university – UW-Whitewater, UW-Rock County, Beloit College or Blackhawk Technical College. She also suggested representation from the non-profit sector that serves teens and adolescents. Comms. Dommershausen, Hesselbacher and Stottler expressed interest in serving on this committee. President Sodemann suggested that he and Dr. Schulte work on the composition of the committee membership. Comm. Stottler asked that these types of committees have their meeting minutes submitted for board review on a monthly basis as a means of accountability, gauging the committee’s progress and avoiding duplication of effort. Comm. Stottler moved, seconded by Comm. Sheridan, to encourage the Strategic Planning Committee to involve local college/university and non-profit representation as well as board members who express an interest in serving in addition to interested individuals who served on the prior committee. The motion carried on a 9-0 vote.

Update on Comm-Unity Cultural Meeting at Franklin Middle School. Comm. Sheridan said about 50 parents and students attended the meeting at Franklin. She felt there was a need to educate all students in the district to accept and embrace cultural diversity. Comm. Ardrey felt the person in front of the children should treat all of the children equally so they do not come with a bias or any assumptions made. He felt a lot of the differences could flow from differences in socio-economics. He felt the key was what the board wanted to move forward with all of the children’s experience.

Announcements. Comm. Hesselbacher announced that Franklin Middle School instructor Holly Mauel has been named Secondary Teacher of the Year by the Wisconsin PTA.

Future Board Agenda Items. President Sodemann asked to revisit naming rights. He also asked for clarification on the policy with regard to advertising in school facilities. He felt this was a potential source of revenue. Comm. Dommershausen felt there should be coordination with the Excellence in Education Foundation.

Adjournment. Comm. Sheridan moved, seconded by Comm. Stottler, to adjourn at 8:30 p.m. The motion carried on a 9-0 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sheridan, Sodemann and Stottler voting in the affirmative.

_________________________________
Nancy M. Hewes, Assistant Board Clerk
Janesville Board of Education

Special Board of Education Meeting
Educational Services Center
April 6, 2011
6:03 p.m.

Commissioners Present: Ardrey (arrived at 6:40 p.m.), Dommershausen, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, Sheridan, Sodemann and Stottler.
Commissioner absent: P. Severson

President Sodemann called to order the special board meeting which was duly noticed on April 5, 2011 through posting and notification of the press in accordance with §19.84.

Consider Approval of Application for the Wisconsin Technology Initiative Lighthouse District Grant in the Amount of $150,000 (Morgridge Foundation). Dr. Ehrhardt explained that receipt of this grant will help the district move forward with some of the technology plans proposed by Steve Schlomann, Manager of Information Technology, especially with reference to Smart boards. Dr. Ehrhardt said district staff and Comm. Hesselbacher participated in an interview process prior to applying for this grant. Based on the interviews, the School District of Janesville and several other districts were then invited to apply for the grant. Comm. Hesselbacher said the Morgridge Foundation representatives were very impressed with how the district has integrated technology. They visited the Janesville Academy for International Studies, Wilson Elementary School and the Parker High School math department. They were also impressed with the level of training. Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. Stottler, approval of application for the Wisconsin Technology Initiative Lighthouse District Grant in the amount of $150,000. The motion carried on a 7-0 vote with Comms. Dommershausen, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, Sheridan, Sodemann and Stottler voting in the affirmative.

Discussion and Consider Approval of Preliminary Staffing Plan for the 2011-12 School Year for the Reasons of Student Enrollment and Budget Reductions. Dr. Sperry said there were two parts to the staffing plan. One is enrollment driven reductions and the other is budget driven reductions. On the enrollment side, 49.97 FTE staff reductions are being recommended. The budget portion recommends 81 FTE staff reductions for a total of 130.97 FTE staff reductions. Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. D. Severson, to approve the staffing plan for the 2011-12 school year for the reasons of student enrollment and budget reductions encompassing 49.97 FTE enrollment driven reductions and 81 FTE budget driven reductions.  President Sodemann asked if it was a fair statement that administration might recall some of these positions when they look at redesigning district plans for the future. Dr. Sperry said that was a fair statement. Comm. Murray asked for clarification on the recall procedures. Dr. Sperry provided an explanation and said administration is following the JEA professional agreement contract language. Comm. Sheridan said the layoff numbers were higher than she had originally thought. She asked for some assurance from administration that as money becomes available through either Fund 10 or other means, that some of these positions can come back. Dr. Schulte said it is a budgetary issue. She would like to keep them all, but will try to find money in other places to bring as many back as she can. The motion carried on a 7-0 vote with Comms.Dommershausen, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, Sheridan, Sodemann and Stottler voting in the affirmative.

Consider Approval to Authorize the Issuance of Lay-off Notices to JEA Bargaining Unit Members and Professional Staff Affected by the Reduction of 130.97 FTE as Outlined in the 2011-12 Staffing Plan. Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. D. Severson, to authorize the issuance of lay-off notices to JEA bargaining unit members and professional staff affected by the reduction of 130.97 FTE as outlined in the 2011-12 staffing plan.
Comm. Hesselbacher asked when, where and how the lay-off notices would be issued. Dr. Sperry said administration was looking at possible lay-off notification on Friday, April 8 or perhaps not until April 11 or 12. He said administration would also be issuing letters to those laid off informing them if they would be transferred into another position. However, that position would not be specifically identified. Dr. Sperry said he would be working with the principals tomorrow to go over the procedure. He will be asking that the principals meet with individual staff members and hand deliver the notice and ask for a signature of receipt. Dr. Sperry said a plan will be in place to provide staff with support services.
Comm. Murray asked if the board had approved using a finite dollar amount of Fund 10 towards the budget shortfall, would that have had an impact on the staff reductions. Dr. Schulte said it would depend on the amount. Some of the amounts discussed by the board at the March 31 meeting would not have touched the $13.4 million budget deficit. Comm. Murray wondered if the board should make suggestions about what should be saved with the possible use of Fund 10 money. He wondered if the board should be thinking about continuing Chinese instruction or WASB dues in comparison to some of the positions on the lay-off list.
Comm. Stottler said she would like some direction on how deep the board should delve into the specifics of budget reductions. She said she would continue to look to the Superintendent for guidance.
President Sodemann said the board needed to take this action to cover balancing the 2011-12 district budget. As other community efforts take place with regard to other creative ideas, other changes can be made this spring and summer that would impact the use of Fund 10 money. The motion carried on a 7-0 vote with Comms. Dommershausen, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, Sheridan, Sodemann and Stottler voting in the affirmative.

Comm. Ardrey arrived at 6:40 p.m.

Information and Discussion Regarding Planning Grant Applications for Three New Charter Schools -- $750,000 Over Three Years for Each of the Following Schools: Madison Elementary School, Jackson Elementary School, and Van Buren Elementary School. Dr. Schulte said at the board agenda setting meeting it was decided that it would be helpful for the full board to have the principals come and talk about their vision for these planning grants in advance of the April 12 board meeting. Dr. Schulte explained why the district would be looking at forming new charter schools during times of declining enrollment and budget reductions. Dr. Schulte said these grants were a vehicle for the district to stay on the cutting edge. This was an opportunity to continue to bring in professional development. It is also an opportunity to bring money into the district. She stressed that this is a planning grant. Dr. Schulte also said Senate Bill 22, if passed,  will allow a state authorizing process and entities other than public schools will be allowed to apply to form charter schools. She wants to make sure the School District of Janesville remains competitive and ahead of the game for state funds.
Veronica McMahon, Principal of Madison Elementary School. Ms. McMahon said the overall district goal is to raise student achievement and what can be done to help provide resources to do this. She said the first part of the grant is a $250,000 planning grant for each of the schools. This money is to be used to study possibilities. They would visit charter schools that have been successful to learn about best practices and what resources and professional development is working for them. The second part of the first year planning process would concentrate on staff development. Presenters would be brought to train staff in the entire school. They would also be able to start purchasing technology-related resources. This technology would be available to be used after the grant is over.
After the first planning year, each school would write a specific charter plan to meet the particular needs of their own school. Ms. McMahon said at Madison Elementary students, staff and families are partners working together to raise student achievement. She said the demographics at Madison have changed significantly over the past three years. Currently, 60 percent of the students qualify for free/reduced lunches. The Madison student services team has been working hard to meet basic student needs such as food and clothing in order to work on student achievement. The focus at Madison is going to be on the whole child – academic, social/emotional, poverty, diversity, nutrition and health.
Kristen Moisson, Principal of Jackson Elementary School shared the Jackson school proposal. Ms. Moisson said they were following a similar process but their main focus will be on developing bilingual, bi-literate and culturally proficient citizens in the school. She said over one-third of the Jackson students are English Language Learners with their primary language being Spanish. Ms. Moisson said they would like to bring the community into the schools. They will be looking at the diverse needs of students and families. Ms. Moisson said Jackson would like to focus on an experiential inquiry project-based learning style. She would like to offer students experiences through technology first before they teach parts of the standard curriculum.
Ms. McMahon spoke of the plans for Van Buren Elementary. She said they would also be focusing on inquiry and 21st century learning through the use technology. Van Buren is looking at a multi-grade approach. The primary grades would be housed in the enclosed classroom and focus on literacy and math. The inquiry-based projects will be teacher lead. When students are ready to switch over to the pod part of the school (not based on age), they will be doing more independent inquiry-based learning. They will also have a school garden and student kitchen to provide authentic learning experience for the students.
Ms. Moisson said the grant is due April 15, but they would not receive notification if they had been accepted until August 2011. They would begin the planning stage in the fall of 2011. Comm. Murray asked what happens after the third year. Ms. Mahon said a large portion of the grant is designated for professional development that would carry over to future years. Teachers would become trainer of trainers. They would also have the technology to continue the charter school efforts. Ms. Moisson said she looked at the grant as an opportunity to help offset some of the local dollars over the next three years. Comm. Murray asked if the board would need to allocate new money after the third year. Ms. Moisson said no. Comm. Murray asked if these would be like magnet schools. Ms. McMahon said the proposed charter schools would be open first to students in that school’s attendance area. Enrollment would then be open to other students on a lottery basis. However no transportation would be provided to students outside the attendance area.
Ms. Moisson explained that the first year is a planning grant. The district would have to apply for an implementation grant for the second year and again for the third year. President Sodemann asked if Madison, Jackson and Van Buren would have their own board overseeing the operations. Ms. Moisson said yes.
Comm. Stottler said she was appointed by the Wisconsin Association of School Boards to serve on the State Superintendent’s Charter School Advisory Board and will be reviewing the applications in May. She encouraged people to read Senate Bill 22. She did not think the district should pass up this opportunity. She felt it was good to continue to find new ways to deliver instruction.
Comm. D. Severson noted that the principals said this would be an opportunity to offset local dollars. He asked if they knew what the net impact would be. Ms. Moisson said they might be purchasing some of the technology through the grant rather than through local dollars. She said they have an estimated itemized budget as each part of the grant program. Dr. Schulte said that information would be sent to board members tomorrow.
Comm. Murray asked if there was any risk to the district if there was a decision to close one of these schools. Ms. Moisson said she viewed this as a charter that could be moved to any location if necessary.
Ginger McWilliams, Madison PTA President, said she was in full support of applying for the grant.

Announcements. Dr. Schulte said this was the first board meeting that was being video streamed so citizens could watch on their computers.
Comm. Dommershausen noted the Conversations Toward Excellence open public listening session is set for 4:30 p.m. on April 7 in the Lincoln LMC.
Comm. Sheridan said the third Comm-Unity listening session would be held at 5:30 p.m. on April 7 at Franklin Middle School.

Adjournment. Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. Stottler, to adjourn at 7:00 p.m. The motion carried on an 8-0 vote.

_________________________________
Nancy M. Hewes, Assistant Board Clerk
Janesville Board of Education
 

Janesville Board of Education Meeting
Educational Services Center
March 31, 2011
6:30 p.m.

Commissioners present: Ardrey, Dommershausen, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sheridan, Sodemann and Stottler.

President Sodemann called the regular meeting to order which was duly noticed on March 29, 2011 through posting and notification of the press in accordance with Wisconsin §19.84.

Edison Middle School students Jake Fischer and Emma Fischer led the Pledge of Allegiance.

Board Recognition. Catherine Grant, Adams Elementary Principal, recognized Ryan Ruble, a former Adams student, for the work he has done at the Adams Elementary School Arboretum as part of the requirement to earn his Eagle Scout designation.

Citizen Comments. Shelly Osmond, 6218 W. Burrwood Dr., said she is a parent as well as a counselor at Craig High School. She is one of 26 counselors who may be laid off. Ms. Osmond enumerated the counseling services that will no longer be offered if the lay-offs go through. She said between Craig and Parker, counselors helped enroll 300 new students, met with 775 seniors individually, and have sent out over 1,200 college applications for students. They also help with testing and parent/teacher conferences. Ms. Osmond said counselors have also done transition programs for over 900 middle school students moving to high school, have reviewed over 1,600 scholarship applications and have provided many other services.
Jana Lyman, 2024 Schaller St., said she is a kindergarten teacher at Kennedy. Ms. Lyman told what the proposed budget cuts would mean to a kindergarten student. She talked about the guidance programming students receive in the morning from the guidance counselor. She told how the learning support teachers help children who are struggling or those who are advanced. She also mentioned how the LMC specialist helps students. Ms. Lyman said the classroom teacher needs a team of people working together to give students the best possible education.
Stephanie Kortyna, 2744 N. River Bluff Dr., said she is a teacher at Jackson. Ms. Kortyna said the teachers were protesting during the last board meeting because of the proposed budget cuts. She sees teachers being bashed and told of many reasons why she marched with the protesters. Ms. Kortyna said teachers are not the villains that citizens and school board members depict them as being. Teachers are hard-working taxpaying citizens and parents.
Ann Rowe, 1904 Eastwood Ave., said she is president of the J-TAG Parent-Teacher Association which represents over 100 families. She talked about the cut for TAG busing and how the parents and district can work together to find alternatives to this situation. She asked the board to retain one TAG advocate in each school to support the 10 percent of students who are performing above grade level in one or more subjects.
Laurie Bauer, 401 Longwood Dr., said she felt terrible because opportunities her children received will not be available to future School District of Janesville children. Ms. Bauer said she would not encourage her adult children move back to Janesville. She asked the board to imagine
the school libraries being closed and technology not being used by students and teachers. She suggested the board think about a referendum or using more of the Fund 10 balance.
Dan Bayreuther, 1316 Nantucket Dr., said he is a teacher at Marshall and a football and softball coach at Craig. He asked the board to keep the girls’ hockey program. He suggested the district eliminate providing transportation and also said parents would be willing to buy the necessary equipment. Mr. Bayreuther also suggested increasing fees for participation in all athletic programs. However, he did not feel that paying only the head coach of athletic teams would work. He said he is a firm believer that extra-curricular and athletics help keep kids interested in school. He said that in a few years there will be 12-14 girls who will be enrolling in the School District of Janesville in order to play hockey.
Darrel Moore, 1708 Arbutus St., said he is a teacher at Edison and coach of the girls’ Rock County Fury hockey co-op team. He said there are about seven girls from the surrounding area who will come to Janesville in order to play hockey. He knows of other area teams where parents drive their athletes to games. He said there are eight or nine Janesville students on the girls’ co-op hockey team.
Wade Hallett, 221 Oakland Ave., said he is a girls’ hockey parent and felt athletics is a big part of a student’s life. He felt it kept students interested in school. Mr. Hallett said he would be willing to pay extra to keep girls’ hockey going. He said hockey brings in quite a bit of revenue to Janesville with the Jets, the Bluebirds and the Rock County Fury. He felt parents would be willing to pay more on a participation fee basis and also for transportation costs.
Becca Parker, 883 Tower Hill, Milton, said she is in the fourth grade Challenge Program at Roosevelt. Becca said she can learn things faster than in a regular class. She asked the board to keep giving the Challenge Program the money it needs.
Catherine Fowler, 2708 Spaulding Ave., said she is a reading teacher. She understood the district’s budget shortfall was a difficult situation for board members, teachers and students. Ms. Fowler said the poverty rate and family issues keep increasing. She was concerned about both counselors and social workers being laid off. She said teachers cannot do it all – they need support teams.
Kathleen Woodman, 7231 E. Avalon Rd., said she recognizes the constraints all schools in Wisconsin are facing. Ms. Woodman said she appeared before the board four years ago and asked the board to support girls’ hockey. Ms. Woodman said she would be willing to pay transportation costs to get her daughter to practices and games. She stated the accomplishments of the players. She said the girls are from four different schools and have formed a cohesive group of friends.
Wendy Haag, 2000 S. River Rd., addressed the board with regard to a vision she has for the district. She said she picked Janesville as a place to raise her children because of the quality of the schools. She felt businesses pick a community in which to locate or expand based on the quality of the public schools. She invited people to donate to the schools. Ms. Haag said she would give a donation in order to save jobs programs and services to students. She felt this could be done outside formal union bargained contracts.
Jim Meason, said his daughter attends Beloit Memorial High School and he has been a school board member in Rockton, IL. His daughter participates in the girls’ hockey program. He felt the school board had to be equitable in cutting sports. He felt the girls’ hockey program has come a long way in the past three years.

Student Representatives to the Board. Heidi Florick, representative from the Rock River Charter School (RRCS), said she is in the e-learning program. Parent/teacher conferences are being held this week. The RRCS hosted a nationally recognized motivational speaker who talked about his life as a former criminal and drug/alcohol abuser. On behalf of the RRCS she thanked the Exchange Family Resource Center, Edgewood College School of Nursing, the Janesville Police Department Self Defense Training, Janesville Senior Center Quilters, the YWCA, the WIC Program, and ECHO for services and help they provided. Heidi reported that 63 students have completed graduation requirements. There is potential for 80 students to complete graduation requirements. Graduation ceremonies are scheduled for 5 p.m. on June 2, 2011 at the Janesville Performing Arts Center. She said the RRCS students are disappointed to hear the news of reduction in staff for next year.
Hailie Hamilton, representing Tailoring Academics to Guide Our Students (TAGOS), said she is finishing her third year at TAGOS and will be graduating next June. She said graduation was not always a reality for her as she entered TAGOS as an expelled student. She said the staff at TAGOS was willing to give her a second chance. Hailie told of a major project she completed and how she likes the on-line math program that she can work on at her own pace. She also told of the educational trips TAGOS students will be taking that are paid for by donations and fundraising events. She appreciated everything TAGOS has done for her.

Consider Approval of Consent Agenda. Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. Stottler, to: a. Approve and place on file the minutes of the February 22, 2011 and March 8, 2011 regular board meetings and the March 15, 2011 special board meeting; b. Resignations/Retirements. The administrative position resignation of Catherine Grant, Principal at Adams Elementary School, effective June 23, 2011; and the teaching position retirements of Janet Bishop, Tiana Borchardt, David Burkholder and Vicki DeGarmo Jackson, all effective June 10, 2011 c. Appointments. None; d. Authorize payment of post-secondary Youth Options applications for first semester of the 2011-12 school year; e. Approve application for a DPI Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program grant; and f. Appoint canvassers for the 2011 Spring election. The motion carried on a 9-0 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sheridan, Sodemann and Stottler voting in the affirmative.

Consider Approval of Superintendent Schulte’s 2011-2013 Contract. Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. Sheridan, to approve the Board’s contract with Superintendent Schulte for 2011-2013. President Sodemann said approval was delayed to reflect language changes due to the Budget Repair Bill. The motion carried on a 9-0 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sheridan, Sodemann and Stottler voting in the affirmative.

Personnel Committee Report. a. Recommendation regarding continuation of an Independent Hearing Officer (IHO) to determine student expulsions. Chairperson Sheridan explained that because of board policy and state statute, this process needs to come before the board after July 1, 2011. The consensus of the committee was to continue with the IHO process to hear all recommendations for expulsion.

b. Discussion and consider recommendation of board legal services. Chairperson Sheridan stated that board policy required that attorneys within Rock County be contacted every three years to determine interest in being considered for providing legal services to the board. She said the committee will review all proposals received, conduct interviews, and make a recommendation to the full board in July 2011.
Comm. Murray thanked Comm. Sheridan for her hard work on this committee and her service to the board. President Sodemann concurred.

Finance Committee Report. a. Discussion and consider approval on generating revenue from athletics. Chairperson Stottler said Rick Lehman, Assistant Principal/Athletic Director at Parker High School and Monte Phillips, Assistant Principal/Athletic Director at Craig High School presented a summary of 2011-2012 budget reductions and revenue generating ideas to the Finance Committee on March 28, 2011. Mr. Lehman said $60,300 in reductions to the district athletic budget were proposed in December 2010 for the 2011-12 budget. They also presented revenue generating ideas for 2011-12 which included raising gate fees from $3 to $5 for adults and from $2 to $3 for students; increasing student athletic participation fees from $50 per season to $75 per season; and increasing entry fees by $50 per event for tournaments and invitationals hosted by Janesville teams. The total proposed increases in revenue amounts to $104,834, plus the December 2010 proposed athletic cuts of $60,300, results in a net savings of $165,134. Additional budget reduction ideas were also given. Chairperson Stottler said the committee voted unanimously to recommended board approval of the increase in gate fees for an estimated additional $50,269; an increase in participation fees for an estimated additional $42,515; and an increase in hosted tournament entry fees for an estimated additional $12,050. Comm. Stottler moved, seconded by Comm. Sheridan, to approve revenue generating ideas for athletics for 2011-12 which included raising gate fees from $3 to $5 for adults and from $2 to $3 for students; increasing student athletic participation fees from $50 per season to $75 per season; and increasing entry fees by $50 per event for tournaments and invitationals hosted by Janesville teams.
Comm. Murray asked that consideration be given to reducing the number of officials at girls’ and boys’ varsity basketball games from three to two. Mr. Phillips said they would look into that. The motion carried on a 9-0 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sheridan, Sodemann and Stottler voting in the affirmative.
Chairperson Stottler asked Mr. Phillips and Mr. Lehman to work with Dr. Schulte on the additional proposed athletic budget reduction ideas for 2011-12. Comm. Murray said the board would need to know how to move toward having girls’ hockey parents pay their own transportation and equipment costs as mentioned in citizen comments. Comm. D. Severson asked how many students do not currently pay the $50 student athletic participation fee. Mr. Lehman said approximately 140. Comm. Stottler asked administration to look further into the possibility of having private designated donations segregated. President Sodemann asked if the district could legally treat girls’ hockey different than boys’ hockey with regard to parents paying to defray the cost of the sport. He also asked about hockey and golf being among the most expensive sport for the district to fund. Dr. Sperry said they would research these items. Comm. Sheridan said she would like to see all athletic programs evolve towards being self-supportingprograms. She felt there was a lot of community support for athletics. She would like to get the cost of athletic programs off the taxpayers. She requested a feasibility report on this idea.

b. Discussion and consider approval to raise enrollment, textbook and facility fees. Chairperson Stottler said the committee voted unanimously to raise student parking fees from $50 per year to $100 per year. Comm. Stottler moved, seconded by Comm. P. Severson, to raise student parking fees from $50 per year to $100 per year beginning with the 2011-12 school year. Comm. Dommershausen asked about the possibility of collecting this fee on a semester basis. Principal Spiegel of Craig and Schroeder from Parker said they would prefer to collect the fee at the beginning of the school year. Both principals said there is limited on-street parking available. The motion carried on a 9-0 vote.

c. Update on 2011-12 budget process. Review, discussion and consider approval of the 2011-12 proposed budget reductions. Chairperson Stottler said all employees had received Dr. Schulte’s “Journey to Excellence” newsletter with the proposed budget reductions listed.
Dr. Schulte said the Finance Committee had asked how the budget reduction process was done and what the cuts will look like. Dr. Schulte said she worked with Mr. Pennington, Chief Financial Officer and Mr. Grender, Comptroller, to go over the entire district budget line by line. She also met with staff in the buildings, with Forward Janesville, with business leaders and Quint Studer. Dr. Schulte said she tried to spread the reductions over all areas. She said the board got viewpoints from several speakers through citizen comments as to what some of the cuts will look like.
Chairperson Stottler asked to have what the budget cuts would look like in a report format so board members would have time to review it and formulate questions for future budget discussions. Dr. Schulte said yes. She would also send the board job descriptions. Dr. Ehrhardt, Director of Instructional Services, briefly reviewed the job duties of Learning Support Teachers and Library Media Specialists. He said there are 17 Learning Support Teachers – one in each school. There are 19 Library Media Specialists – one at each elementary school, one at each middle school and two at each high school. Dr. Cargile, Director of At-Risk and Multicultural Programs, said there were 26 counselors (one at each elementary school, two at each middle school, and 4 at each high school), 3 school resource officers (one at each middle school), 6 nurses, and 9 social workers. She reviewed the duties they perform. She said these services may be on a more reactive rather than a proactive model next year. Dr. Schulte said administration may have to reconfigure how the district provides some of these services and some services will no longer be able to be provided.
Dr. Schulte returned to her PowerPoint presentation. She reviewed the budget reductions presented to the board on March 7, 2011 and new ones she was presenting tonight. She reviewed the elimination of stipends for additional responsibilities, employee reductions, non-represented personnel options, and potential revenue generating ideas. Dr. Schulte provided answers to questions from board members on individual budget reduction items. Comm. Stottler asked for a five-year historical review on the textbook budget as to what has been cut, what has been delayed, the current impact, and what is not being provided to students as a result of the cuts over the past five years.
Dr. Sperry said the middle school athletic directors are working together to reduce the intramural athletic budget from $194,000 to $83,000 – a 57 percent reduction. They are looking at reducing coaches from 83 to 51 and the possibility of instituting a student participation fee.
Dr. Schulte said she would leave Rock River Charter School at its current location for one more school year. The landlord has offered to reduce the RRCS rent by 30 percent.
Dr. Schulte said Janesville is requesting a one-year waiver of the $15,000 fee for membership in the Stateline Career and Technical Education Academy.
Dr. Schulte said North American Mechanical, Inc. has been monitoring the HVAC systems. She said Steven Eichman and Dave Leeder will be trained to handle this function.
Dr. Schulte said she would provide the board with more detailed information on stipends for additional duties. She also stated that administration would look into the legality of having part-time custodians.
Dr. Schulte presented a proposal for a different configuration for administration at the high schools. She said financial savings of this proposal have not yet been figured.
Dr. Schulte reviewed the proposed cuts in all staff areas. She asked the board to be prepared to vote on the proposed staffing plan reductions and the additional 55.5 JEA bargaining unit reductions at the April 12, 2011 board meeting. Also proposed are a reduction of 11 custodial/maintenance employees and 36 secretaries/clerks/aides positions.
Dr. Schulte asked the board if they would like to consider having a special board meeting prior to April 12 to consider staffing plan reductions and the 55.5 JEA bargaining unit reductions.

d. Update on the district’s other post-employment benefits actuarial valuation report. Mr. Pennington said the district is required by the Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB) to have a updated valuation before the end of this fiscal year (June 30, 2011). He said Key Benefits Concepts was selected to provide an updated report. This will be on a future board agenda.

e. Update on the district’s enrollment audit. Mr. Pennington said the district was randomly selected for the third consecutive year to have an enrollment audit. He said he is not expecting any variations in the enrollment data on which state funding is based. The findings will be reported to the Finance Committee and the board when completed.

f. Update on the effect of GASB 54 (Governmental Accounting Standards Board) on the district’s audited financial statement. Mr. Pennington said this was a change in the GASB rule on how the fund balance is presented in the audited financial statements. This does not change the amount of the district’s fund balance or the board policy.

g. Financial implications of budget decisions made to date and discussion of reconsiderations. Comm. Ardrey felt the items highlighted in green on slide five of Dr. Schulte’s proposed budget reductions should be acted upon. Comm. Ardrey moved, seconded by Comm. D. Severson, to approve the following budget actions which would result in the savings noted: personal service/travel/general for $352,000; a freeze on office supplies for $20,000; busing costs for field trips to the Janesville Schools Outdoor Lab for $5,588; closing the Community Recovery, Education and Service (CRES) Academy for $20,000; the elimination of rent by moving the Janesville Academy for International Studies (JAIS) into the high schools $48,912; charging students a paper fee of $2 for $20,000; and elimination of rent on district storage facilities for $70,632. The motion carried on a 9-0 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sheridan, Sodemann and Stottler voting in the affirmative.
With reference to the items highlighted in green on slide six of Dr. Schulte’s proposed budget reductions, the following motion was made. Comm. Ardrey moved, seconded by Comm. Stottler, to approve the following budget reductions which would result in the savings noted: talented and gifted (TAG) supports, $30,000; and elimination of busing for TAG students, $48,000. Dr. Schulte clarified that the TAG supports reduction was for professional development, curriculum materials and consultants. It is not a reduction of TAG advocates or the Challenge Program. The motion carried on a 9-0 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sheridan, Sodemann and Stottler voting in the affirmative.
With reference to the items highlighted in green on slide seven of Dr. Schulte’s proposed budget reductions, the following motion was made. Comm. Ardrey moved, seconded by Comm. Stottler, to approve the reduced rental charge for the Rock River Charter School which would result in a savings of $22,635. The motion carried on a 9-0 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sheridan, Sodemann and Stottler voting in the affirmative.
With reference to the items highlighted in green on slide eight of Dr. Schulte’s proposed budget reductions, the following motion was made: Comm. Ardrey moved, seconded by Comm. Dommershausen, to approve the following budget reductions which would result in the savings noted: waive paying Janesville’s share of the Stateline Career and Technical Education Academy (SCTEA) fee for the 2011-12 school year, $15,000; and discontinue paying the North American Mechanical, Inc. for monitoring the district’s HVAC system, $103,000.
Comm. P. Severson moved, seconded by Comm. Dommershausen, to amend the motion to remove the SCTEA portion from the motion. The amendment failed on a 1-7-1 vote with Comm. P. Severson voting in the affirmative. Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Murray, D. Severson, Sheridan, Sodemann and Stottler voting in opposition. Comm. Hesselbacher abstained from voting.
The main motion carried on a 7-1-1 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Murray, D. Severson, Sheridan, Sodemann and Stottler voting in the affirmative. Comm. P. Severson voted in opposition. Comm. Hesselbacher abstained from voting.
With reference to the item highlighted in green on slide six of Dr. Schulte’s proposed budget reductions, the following motion was made. Comm. Ardrey moved, seconded by Comm. P. Severson, to reduce the athletic budget by $60,300 (eliminate apparel line item, $40,000; eliminate a JV Pom and JV Cheerleading coach at each high school, $8,500; eliminate a football coach at each high school, $4,000; eliminate a volleyball coach at each high school, $3,400; eliminate a boys’ golf coach at Parker High School, $1,600; eliminate a boys’ hockey coach, $2,800) as suggested in the December 2010 athletic budget reduction proposal for 2011-2012. The motion carried on an 8-1 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson Sodemann and Stottler voting in the affirmative. Comm. Sheridan voted in opposition.

Presentation of 2011-12 Information Technology Capital Budget. Mr. Pennington said over one million dollars was cut from the IT budget last year. He asked Mr. Schlomann to prepare two budgets. One would be based on the same budgeted amount as last year ($637,660) and the other would be closer to a normal budget to include items that would help improve productivity, reliability, or reduce operating costs but not be imperative for operation.
Mr. Schlomann presented a list of what he considered to be first priority “must have” projects. They included: providing building-wide secure wireless access in all district buildings, $85,000; video streaming, distance learning and TV broadcast equipment to replace aging equipment, $150.000; normal replacement cycle for PC’s which was not done last year in order to reduce the budget, $250,000; install smart boards in Craig science labs so they are at the same standard as Parker, $33,000; storage area network (SAN) data storage core server replacements to allow for large flexible data storage and effective disaster recovery options, $50,000; and additional Skyward Web servers to allow increased use, $40,000. These items would maintain the budget at the same level as 2010-11.
If the IT budget were to be expanded, Priority two projects would include: rewiring Marshall to meet the specifications for 1GB network speeds, $30,000; uninterruptable power supply replacements for network closets and the phone system, $30,000; equipping elementary classrooms with smart boards, $774,000; providing 500 mobile devices for staff, $250,000; and providing 500 student mobile devices, $250,000. A priority three project would be replacement and upgrading current phone systems to IP capable phone switches, $91,000.
President Sodemann asked about the possibility of student’s using a mobile device instead of the district purchasing textbooks that need to be replaced. Mr. Schlomann felt the tablet-type device could be a student’s textbook, computer, smart board, etc. He felt it had great potential for all students. Comm. D. Severson asked if the district should replace PC’s or go to mobile tablets. Mr. Schlomann said going to tablets would involve staff training. Tablets would not require the classroom space that computer labs use.

What’s Right in Education/Dashboard. Dr. Schulte reported that WKCE test scores have improved dramatically across the district. Dr. Ehrhardt said historically Janesville’s test scores have been at the state average or slightly below. The goal has been to move them above the state average. He reported that in six out of seven tested areas in math scores moved ahead of the state average. In reading, five out of seven areas moved ahead of the state average. In language, science and social studies, students scored four percent above state average. Edison Middle School has moved off the watch list. He noted outstanding increases at various individual schools and felt they were the result of a collective effort of looking at data, having a commitment, and staying focused.
Comm. Ardrey said in looking at claims and costs in the finance area, attention should be given to worker compensation claims. He said there have been 121 claims filed through February at a cost of $200,000. He felt the district should work towards embracing a culture of safety.

Update on Comm-Unity Cultural Meeting at Wilson Elementary School. Comm. Sheridan said the January meeting at Wilson was the second meeting held by this group. She said about 30 people were in attendance. Principals shared what they were doing to meet the needs of minority students. The next meeting will be on April 7 at Franklin Middle School. Parents will be informed about their rights and the district’s complaint procedure. Through the New Student Enrollment Office, new minority families will be given a list of support groups available to them. Comm. Ardrey said a major focus is for people to accept the children and families in the community.

Discussion of Preliminary Staffing Plan for the 2011-12 School Year. Dr. Sperry provided board members with an updated Staffing Plan Financial Executive Summary. There was a slight reduction in the special area teacher staff from 6.95 FTE to 6.08 FTE. Dr. Sperry said the “hot spots” have grown from 19 to 21 under staffing plan three.
Board members agreed to hold a special board meeting on Wednesday, April 6 at 6:00 p.m. to consider approval of the 2011-12 staffing plan.

Update and Consider Possible Action on Budget Process. a. Motion to change Board Policy to allow the board to use up to $8 million of the Fund 10 to balance the 2011-12 district budget.

b. Amendment to reduce the Fund 10 balance by $2.7 million to balance the 2011-12 district budget. Comm. Stottler asked for clarification. President Sodemann said approval of this amendment would lessen the amount of budget reductions that would have to be made.
Comm. Dommershausen moved, seconded by Comm. Ardrey, to amend the amendment by reducing the amount from $2.7 to $1.5 million. The motion to amend failed on a 3-6 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen and Sodemann voting in the affirmative. Comms. Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sheridan and Stottler voted in opposition.
The pending amendment to reduce the Fund 10 balance by $2.7 million to balance the 2011-12 district budget failed on a 4-5 vote with Comms. Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson and Sheridan voting in the affirmative. Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, P. Severson, Sodemann and Stottler voting in opposition.
The main motion to change Board Policy to allow the board to use up to $8 million of the Fund 10 to balance the 2011-12 district budget. The motion failed on a 0-9 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sheridan, Sodemann and Stottler voting in opposition.
Comm. D. Severson moved, seconded by Comm. Murray to reduce the Fund 10 balance by $3.25 million to balance the 2011-12 district budget. The motion failed on a 3-6 vote with Comms. Hesselbacher, Murray and D. Severson voting in the affirmative. Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, P. Severson, Sheridan, Sodemann and Stottler voting in opposition.

Discuss and Consider Approval to Begin the Strategic Planning Process for the School District of Janesville. With the closure of the “Beyond 2010” long-range plan, Dr. Schulte felt it was time for the district to review its strategic planning process. Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. P. Severson, to move forward with a strategic planning process for the district. The motion carried on a 9-0 vote.

Discuss and Consider Approval to Select the Participants Who Will be Involved in the Strategic Plan. Dr. Schulte asked the board for suggestions on the composition of a strategic planning committee. Comm. P. Severson asked who had served on the previous strategic planning committee. Dr. Schulte said it was primarily employees, principals and directors. Comm. Murray suggested having representation from Forward Janesville, City of Janesville planning department, and the local business community. President Sodemann asked Dr. Schulte to provide the board with a list of potential members. He felt one or more board members should also be on the committee. President Sodemann asked board members to let him know if they would like to serve on this committee.

Announcements. Comm. Murray mentioned the Spring Election on April 5. He thanked board members and directors for the privilege of serving for the past six years. President Sodemann echoed the same sentiments. Dr. Schulte noted the Conversations Toward Excellence meeting at 4:30 p.m. on April 7 in the Lincoln LMC. Also on April 7 at 5:30 p.m. is the Comm-Unity diversity meeting at Franklin Middle School.

Future Board Agenda Items. None

Adjournment Comm. Sheridan moved, seconded by Comm. P. Severson, to adjourn at 11:25 p.m. The motion carried on a 9-0 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sheridan, Sodemann and Stottler voting in the affirmative.

________________________________
Nancy M. Hewes, Assistant Board Clerk
Janesville Board of Education

Special Board of Education Meeting
Educational Services Center
March 15, 2011
7:03 p.m.

Commissioners Present: Ardrey (via telephone conference call), Dommershausen, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sheridan, Sodemann and Stottler.

Others Present: Karen Schulte, District Administrator; Stephen Sperry, Director of Administrative and Human Services; and Angel Tullar, Manager of Employee Relations.

President Sodemann called to order the special board meeting which was duly noticed on March 14, 2011 through posting and notification of the press in accordance with §19.84.

Comm. P. Severson moved, seconded by Comm. Sheridan, to meet in closed session at 7:05 p.m. per Wis. §19.85(1) and §19.85(1)(c) considering employment, promotion, compensation or performance evaluation data of any public employee over which the governmental body has jurisdiction or exercises responsibility; and (e) deliberating or negotiating whenever competitive or bargaining reasons require a closed session; and (g) conferring with legal counsel for the governmental body who is rendering oral or written advice concerning strategy to be adopted by the board. a. Discussion regarding possible modification to the JEA, AFSCME Local 938 Custodial/Maintenance/Food Service Unit, and AFSCME Local 938 AFSCME Local 938 Secretary/Clerk/Aide Unit collective bargaining agreements; b. Discussion regarding development of a proposed offer to re-open the JEA, AFSCME Local 938 Custodial/Maintenance/Food Service Unit, and AFSCME Local 938 Secretary/Clerk/Aide Unit collective bargaining agreements. The motion carried on an 8-0 vote with Comms. Dommershausen, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sheridan, Sodemann and Stottler voting in the affirmative

Further Consideration and Action, if Appropriate, Regarding Closed Session Business. The board reconvened in open session at 9:05 p.m. President Sodemann announced that he anticipated there would be some motions offered and discussion. At the conclusion of this business, he would hold a short press conference.
Comm. Hesselbacher moved, seconded by Comm. Dommershausen, that the Board of Education hereby approves the following modification to the 2009-2013 Professional Agreement and hereby offers said modifications to the Janesville Education Association with the understanding if this language is accepted by the JEA the result will be a mutual modification of the collective bargaining agreement. Article XV – Insurance, Wisconsin Retirement System, Tax Sheltered Annuities, Educational Employees Credit Union, Direct Deposit. Section 2. Wisconsin Retirement System. Effective July 1, 2011, employees will pay an amount equal to one-half of all actuarially required contributions to the Wisconsin Retirement System. The Board will pay to the Wisconsin Retirement System the required employer’s contribution. The motion carried on an 8-0 vote with Comms. Dommershausen, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sheridan, Sodemann and Stottler voting in the affirmative.

Comm. Hesselbacher moved, seconded by Comm. Stottler, that the Board of Education hereby approves the following modification to the 2009-2013 AFSCME Local 938 Custodial/Maintenance/Food Service Unit collective bargaining agreement and hereby offers said modifications to the AFSCME Local 938 Custodial/Maintenance/Food Service Unit with the understanding if this language is accepted by the union the result will be a mutual modification of the collective bargaining agreement. Article XIV – Retirement. 14.01 The Janesville Board of Education and its employees shall participate in the Wisconsin Retirement Plan. The Plan is governed by Wisconsin Statutes and Wisconsin Retirement System Board rules. 14.02 Effective July 1, 2011, employees will pay an amount equal to one-half of all actuarially required contributions to the Wisconsin Retirement System. The motion carried on an 8-0 vote with Comms. Dommershausen, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sheridan, Sodemann and Stottler voting in the affirmative.
Comm. Hesselbacher moved, seconded by Comm. Sheridan, that the Board of Education hereby approves the following modification to the 2010-2013 AFSCME Local 938 Secretary/Clerk/Aide Unit collective bargaining agreement and hereby offers said modifications to the AFSCME Local 938 Secretary/Clerk/Aide Unit with the understanding if this language is accepted by the union the result will be a mutual modification of the collective bargaining agreement. Article XIX – Retirement Contribution. 19.01 Wisconsin Retirement System. A. For full-time twelve month employees, the Board will pay the required employer’s share of the retirement contribution. Effective July 1, 2011, employees will pay an amount equal to one-half of all actuarially required contributions to the Wisconsin Retirement System. B. Part-time twelve month employees and full and part-time school year employees are eligible for participation in the Wisconsin Retirement System if they are employed in a position which normally requires at least 600 hours of work each year. For eligible employees, the Board will pay the required employer’s share of the retirement contribution. Effective July 1, 2011, employees will pay an amount equal to one-half of all actuarially required contributions to the Wisconsin Retirement System. The motion carried on an 8-0 vote with Comms. Dommershausen, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sheridan, Sodemann and Stottler voting in the affirmative.

Adjournment. Comm. D. Severson moved, seconded by Comm. Sheridan, to adjourn at 9:10 p.m. The motion carried on an 8-0 vote.

_________________________________
Nancy M. Hewes, Assistant Board Clerk
Janesville Board of Education

Janesville Board of Education Meeting
Educational Services Center
March 8, 2011
6:35 p.m.

Commissioners present: Ardrey, Dommershausen, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sheridan, Sodemann and Stottler.

President Sodemann called the meeting to order which was duly noticed on March 5, 2011 through posting and notification of the press in accordance with Wisconsin §19.84.

Edison Middle School student David Howell led the Pledge of Allegiance.

Citizen Comments. Donna Stenner, 616 S. Franklin St., is a district employee and chief steward for the Secretary/Clerk/Aide union. She thanked Comms. Murray and Stottler for their leadership on the negotiating team and helping the parties reach a tentative agreement. Ms. Stenner said this unit made concessions including a one-year wage freeze. She truly believed the parties had bargained in good faith. She asked the board to treat their group fairly and with the same respect as the other unions.
Ann Roe, 1904 Eastwood Ave., told about the Talented and Gifted open house on March 17 from 5-7 p.m. at Roosevelt Elementary School. Students will showcase their projects. Ms. Roe said if it was not for the TAG advocates at the elementary schools, many children would not have the opportunities they now enjoy. She said the TAG program generates revenue for the district.
Julie Backenkeller, 719 N. Grant Ave., felt everyone needs to stick together and develop common goals. Governor Walker will not let school districts raise taxes. She felt perhaps parents could pay increased fees or elementary schools could be combined to save money. Ms. Backenkeller felt the district should retain the best of the best educators and asked that everyone make sacrifices. Without an excellent educational system, people will be leaving Janesville – not coming to Janesville.
Rachel Wente, 1705 S. Pine St., is a student who thanked the board for offering the TAG program. She said the TAG students like to be challenged. Her brothers love going to school because of the TAG program.
Jessica Kotwitz, 1108 Mayfair Dr., a kindergarten teacher at Monroe, said she had a suggestion for reducing the budget deficit. She said primary grade teachers are assessing students constantly. She suggested the district consider discontinuing buying the Measures of Academic Progress testing materials for primary students for the time being.
Jack Hoag, 4155 Eastridge Dr., said he has a heavy heart with some of the notifications that were given to district staff today. He supported taxing to the maximum allowable by law. Mr. Hoag said it is a community problem so all community members should share in the solution. He thought a lot of parents would pay an extra fee so some teachers could retain their jobs.
Kevin Parker, 883 Tower Hill Dr., Milton, spoke on behalf of the TAG program. His daughter is in the Challenge Program at Roosevelt. He felt cutting the TAG program is in opposition to the district’s mission statement. He said he would probably not send his second daughter to Janesville if the TAG program is cut. He said Janesville’s TAG program is held up as a benchmark for other districts. He recognized that not all parents of students in the TAG program may be able to pay an additional fee or provide transportation for their child. He felt it would be unjust to deny kids the chance to be in the program because of their family’s inability to pay additional fees/costs. He encouraged the district to use the Studer process to look for efficient ways to find other savings in the budget.

Student Representatives to the Board. Rachel Philipps, representing Craig High School, said Craig students celebrated Black History Month with the Sisters Empowering Sisters decorating doors and hallways with names of influential African Americans. Winter sports are ending with individuals and teams qualifying for sectional and state tournaments. National Honor Society induction will be held on March 10. In honor of FFA Week, students will be having dress-up days. Other activities scheduled are donkey basketball, Jazz Fest on March 14, Academic Recognition on March 15, Vocal Jazz and Show Choir performance on March 16. Rachel thanked board members for coming to Craig to answer student questions.
Korrie Bysted, Parker High School representative, said parent/teacher conferences were held and students received mid-quarter grades. Planning continues for the American Cancer Society Relay for Life which will take place on April 8-9. Students will have a “Paint Parker Purple” campaign in support of this cause. Sports teams are qualifying for regional and state tournaments. DECA members will participate in state competition. The prom turn-around project offers gently used dresses and accessories to make attending prom more affordable for students. Spring sports are getting underway. The Parker Playhouse will be presenting a modern version of “A Midsummer’s Night Dream.” The Viking Credit Union and Key Club are conducting food and fund drives. The Parker Robotics Club will participate in a competition.

Consider Approval of Consent Agenda. Comm. Stottler asked to have item 5e. removed. Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. P. Severson, to approve: a. Minutes of the February 19 and 25, 2011 special board meetings; b. Receive and File Fund Summary Report. Revenues in the aggregate for February 2011 were $13,766,377 and aggregate expenditures were $10,298,655; c. Resignations/Retirements. Support staff retirement of Beth Cramer, effective June 10, 2011; and d. Appointments. None. The motion carried on a 9-0 vote. Comm. Stottler recognized Rose Beach of Edison Middle School for being a State Spelling Bee qualifier and Siven Furseth, Chris Pierce and Coach Mark Mullen for qualifying for the State Individual Wrestling Tournament. Comm. Stottler moved, seconded by Comm. Murray, to approve 5e. Commendations. The motion carried on a 9-0 vote.

Consider Adoption of AFSCME Local 938 Secretary/Clerk/Aide Unit 2010-2013 Contract Agreement. Ms. Tullar said a tentative agreement was reached on February 21, 2011. This union consists of 351 people with only 55 of them being full-time employees. She told of the many different jobs these employees perform. This union’s most recent contract expired on June 30, 2010. Ms. Tullar said this union agreed to a wage freeze for 2010-11, and a two percent per cell salary increase for 2011-12 and for 2012-13. The insurance deductible was decreased to match the JEA contract. Employees participating in the 100 point Wellness Program will be able to take advantage of a reduced health insurance premium. Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. Stottler, to adopt the AFSCME Local 938 Secretary/Clerk/Aide Unit 2010-2013 contract agreement. Comm. Murray thanked Ms. Tullar, Comm. P. Severson and former board member Diedre Richard for their work on the negotiating team. He said they did not rush through this process. Comm. Stottler said she was going to honor the tentative agreement she helped negotiate. She felt everyone had to work together to solve the district budget deficit. Comm. Sheridan said she was disappointed that the unions have not stepped up to the plate to help the district with the budget deficit. Comm. D. Severson said he was disappointed, but not surprised. He said some board members felt the unions would do the right thing. They did – the right thing for their union members. He said the unions have provided the board with one less opportunity to solve the budget deficit. He said no one he has talked to has asked to have their taxes raised. Comm. P. Severson said one thing he did see as a bonus was that all contracts will now be on the same time length. He thought the unions are probably in a survival mode, but the district is also in a survival mode. Staffing accounts for 85 percent of the district budget. President Sodemann said the district is facing a $13 million budget deficit. Because the district cannot raise the tax levy, it may have to go to referendum for additional revenue. He felt all public service workers should share in the pain of the state’s budget shortfall. He thought the unions wanted to keep as many people employed as possible. He concurred that this was the lowest paid group of employees who worked very hard. The motion carried on a 5-3-1 vote with Comms. Dommershausen, Hesselbacher, Murray, P. Severson and Stottler voting in the affirmative. Comms. D. Severson, Sheridan and Sodemann voted in opposition. Comm. Ardrey abstained from voting.

Consider Approval of Superintendent Schulte’s 2011-2013 Contract. President Sodemann said the board needs to clarify some of the language in the contract. It will be placed on the next board meeting for approval.

Authorization to Send Final Notice of Non-Renewal, Support Staff – (not related to performance). The non-renewal request has been cancelled. The individual involved, Beth Cramer, has decided to retire. No action is needed on this agenda item.

Buildings and Grounds Report. a. Report on Boundary Lines Committee. Chairperson Ardrey said the committee has had a busy few weeks with meetings on February 24 and March 3. The focus of the committee was on looking at combining schools. As a result of the February 24 meeting, the committee reviewed in detail closing Wilson or Roosevelt elementary school. They also considered closing Jefferson or Jackson. Chairperson Ardrey said based on the information presented, it will not be a quick effort to reallocate students. At the March 3 meeting, it was the consensus of the Boundary Lines Committee not to forward a recommendation to the Buildings and Grounds Committee. The Buildings and Grounds Committee recommended a September 1, 2011 deadline by which to make a decision on combining any school(s) for the 2012-13 school year.
Chairperson Ardrey asked the board for assistance. He said current board policy called for a neighborhood concept for elementary schools. The “interior” elementary schools can keep the two mile walking distance. If the board considers the “peripheral” elementary schools, the distances get longer. He also asked the board to look at expanded option areas.  Comm. Dommershausen said he would like to look at vertical redistribution. Chairperson Ardrey said that is out of the scope of the Boundary Lines Committee. The district has been operating under the middle school philosophy for quite some time.
Comm. Stottler felt perhaps a process change was violated. She thought the Boundary Lines Committee made a decision that should be a board decision. She asked if Wilson was the committee’s first choice. She also asked if it is too late to consider Jackson or Jefferson. Chairperson Ardrey said he had visited all of the elementary schools and evaluated the space available. He did not feel there was enough time between now and the start of school in the fall to close a school and do it well. He did not think there would be time to consider all the other factors that would enter into such a decision or to hold public hearings.
Comm. D. Severson thought it would be helpful to board members to get more information about the neighborhood concept. He asked for some history and background. Chairperson Ardrey asked if it would be better to have a workshop to address this matter.
Dr. Schulte told of all the staffing work that has to be completed in the next few weeks. President Sodemann thanked Comm. Ardrey for taking the time to visit every elementary school. He felt all of the different options should be given consideration.
b. Update on Craig High School Sound Barrier and Consider Acceptance of the O’Neill Engineered Systems Bid. Chairperson Ardrey said the district received two bids for this project. O’Neill Engineered Systems met the specifications; the other company did not. The O’Neill bid was for $137,475. Construction would take about 7-9 weeks to complete. Comm. Ardrey moved, seconded by Comm. D. Severson, to hire O’Neill Engineered Systems to construct the sound barrier at Craig High School for the cost of $137,475. Comm. P. Severson asked about talking to the Craig renovation architects or construction company to see if the district could get any monetary relief for the sound barrier. Mr. Pennington said that had not been done yet. The motion carried on a 9-0 vote.
c. Consider Approval to Increase Enrollment at Marshall Middle School. Dr. Sperry said this was a request to allow an increase in enrollment at Kennedy, Harrison and Monroe elementary schools that feed to Marshall Middle School. He said Marshall has the capacity to increase enrollment by 100 students. There are currently 17 possible elementary students who would come into the district if they could continue at Marshall. Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. D. Severson, to increase enrollment at Marshall Middle School to no more than capacity. The motion carried on a 9-0 vote.

Discussion and Consider Approval to Endorse a City-Wide Book Read with Craig High School. Dr. Alison Spiegel, Principal of Craig High School, said one of the Educational Pillars was quality – student achievement. One of the goals is to improve student reading skills. This spring Craig plans to coordinate a city-wide reading effort with the help of Parker High School and the Hedberg Public Library. Library Media Specialists Shelley Gard and Christine Pumilia presented more details. Craig students went to Madison last spring to visit with author Jonathan Friesen. The Craig PTO has offered to cover the cost of Mr. Friesen’s visit to Janesville May 11-13, 2011. Every middle and high school student will have an opportunity to hear the author speak. The Hedberg Library will work with home-schooled and charter school students. The goal is to provide each secondary student with a signed copy of one of the three books written by Mr. Friesen – Jerk, California, Rush or The Last Martin. This effort would be funded through community donations. Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. Sheridan, to approve endorsement of a city-wide book read. The motion carried on a 9-0 vote.

Presentation of Preliminary Staffing Plan for the 2011-12 School Year. Dr. Sperry thanked the board for their patience in waiting for receipt of the staffing plan. He said enrollment is projected to decrease by 101 students for the 2011-12 school year to a total of 9,410 students. The majority of the decrease will be at the elementary level. The staffing plan is enrollment driven. Dr. Sperry said the board will have an opportunity to review the staffing plan over the next three weeks. Final approval is scheduled for the April 12 board meeting. Dr. Sperry briefly reviewed the major sections of the staffing plan booklet – staffing plan assumptions, executive summary, financial summary, composites, high school combined/exceptions/canceled and site specific courses, charter schools, special programs and secretary/clerical/aide staffing. Dr. Sperry said important dates to keep in mind are April 15 for teachers wanting to retire with post-employment benefits. The JEA collective bargaining agreement states that layoff notices must be issued prior to May 1. The staffing plan calls for a reduction of 20.95 FTE elementary and special area teachers, 7.1 FTE middle school teachers, and 15.9 high school teachers. It also calls for the closure of the CRES Academy charter school and a decrease in high school and special education instructional aide time. The staffing plan translates into a reduction of 50.9 FTE instructional positions for a total of $2,697,700. Reductions for instructional aides total $57,155. Dr. Sperry asked that board members forward any questions to his office.

Update and Consider Possible Action on Budget Process. Mr. Pennington said he prepared the budget update under the assumption that staffing levels would remain the same and there would be no increase in IT or maintenance budgets because these areas were cut by over $1.7 million last year. All items previously paid for by expired grants were removed from expenses. Non-repeating revenue sources no longer available for 2011-12 include Jobs Education Funding of $1,797,524, and fund balance usage last year of $2,270,370 for a total of $4,067,894.
New items that have recently come to the forefront relate to Governor Walker’s budget repair bill. A reduction of $519.92 per pupil in state aid will result in a decrease in equalization aid of $2,829,267. The tax levy cap is frozen at last year’s levied amount which results in a decrease of $28,753 for 2011-12. All of these items result in a total of $6,925,914 that was received in 2010-11 that will not be received in 2011-12.
On the expense side, estimated increases in salaries and benefits amount to $3,865,725. Health insurance is estimated to increase 15 percent for a total of $2,596,488. The loss of previously received revenue coupled with the increase in expenses results in a district budget deficit of $13,388,127.
Dr. Schulte gave a presentation on the budget repair bill and its impact on the School District of Janesville. She said if all district employees contributed 5.8 percent of their salaries to the Wisconsin Retirement System and 12.6 percent to health insurance coverage, it would equal $5,800,000. None of the three union members will be contributing. However, the non-represented staff will have to make the WRS 5.8 percent contribution beginning in March. Dr. Schulte said the board gave her the task of reducing the 2011-12 budget by $6.5 million. She knows that there will also have to be an additional reduction of $5 million to cover the loss in per pupil state aid.
Dr. Schulte enumerated revenue sources that may offset the budget reduction as follows:
personal service/travel/professional development, $450,500; freeze on six administrative positions, $250,000; athletics, $60,000; JSOL busing, $5,588; close CRES Academy, $20,000; move Janesville Academy for International Studies to the high schools, $48,912; discontinue My Learning Plan, $16,148; non-represented staff payment to WRS March-June 2011, 63,608; student paper fee, $20,000; eliminate storage facilities, $70,632; TAG supports, $120,000; TAG busing, $48,000; textbooks, $100,000; textbook replacements, $100,000. These reductions total $1,373,388.
Dr. Schulte proposed the following employee reductions: 10 custodial/maintenance, $410,408; 10 ESC staff, $379,000; 50.9 teachers based on staffing plan, $2,965,592; 36 secretaries/clerks/aides, $756,000; an additional 45.5 support staff and teachers not included in the staffing plan, $2411,500. These reductions total $6,922,500. The total of all reductions equals $8.4 million. This still leaves the district $5 million short of the $13.4 million district budget deficit.
President Sodemann asked what amount schools could legally charge for student fees. He would also like to see what the elimination of recently added items such as girls’ hockey and elementary Chinese might save.
Comm. Stottler asked Dr. Schulte what she would recommend as a plan of action to deal with the cuts. Are buildings ready to give up part of their allocation to save a teacher? What about seeking sponsorships for certain areas such as music, art, etc.?
Comm. Murray asked how soon before the board needs to know how much of the Fund 10 balance it might use. Dr. Schulte reminded him that layoff notices must be issued prior to May 1.
Comm. D. Severson suggested that the board make some decisions and throw out some ideas about how the board might want to cover the budget shortfall.
Comm. Stottler said she put out a plan a couple of weeks ago. She felt the board might have to risk using some of the Fund 10 balance and also increase taxes. She did not know how much the district could ask for in a referendum. She did not think the union contracts would be re-opened.
Comm. Dommershausen said he was not quite ready to make a decision yet because there is still a standoff in Madison.
Comm. Hesselbacher said she has been resisting using more from the fund balance than policy allows. She asked if the board used $4 million of the fund balance, what that would do to the district’s ability to borrow money. She requested more information on short-term borrowing.
President Sodemann asked if there was a cap on a referendum amount.
Comm. D. Severson thought going to referendum was not really a viable option. He said the district cannot tax any more than it did last year if Governor Walker’s biennial budget bill passes as it currently stands. He also felt there was not much of a chance that any union contracts would be re-opened. He felt that left the real question of how much the board is willing to reduce the Fund 10 balance.

Comm. Murray said he was willing to take the risk of short-term borrowing if that is what the board has to do. He was willing to use $8 million of the Fund 10 balance to fill the deficit. He felt the board could not make any further cuts and still maintain a good education for students. Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. D. Severson, to allow the board the flexibility to use up to $8 million of the Fund 10 to balance the 2011-12 district budget. Comm. Sheridan noted that with using the $8 million suggested by Comm. Murray, the board would not have to make as many cuts as suggested by Dr. Schulte.
Comm. P. Severson said he is not comfortable going below where board policy currently stands. He was not comfortable going below $600,000 because that amount could be recouped next year with the closing of an elementary school.
Comm. Stottler said the only way she could support a change in the Fund 10 board policy is if everyone shares in WRS and health insurance payments. She said she could not support using $8 million of $4.4 million from the Fund 10 balance.
President Sodemann said the board should double any amount taken out of the Fund 10 balance because the district will have salary and benefit costs for the next two years. He said the board is locked into these costs until June 30, 2013.
Comm. D. Severson moved, seconded by Comm. Ardrey, to amend the motion to read reduce the Fund 10 balance by $2.7 million to help balance the 2011-12 district budget.
Comm. P. Severson moved, seconded by Comm. Dommershausen, to postpone the amendment and main motion to reduce the Fund 10 balance to the March 31 board meeting. The motion carried on a 7-2 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Hesselbacher, P. Severson, Sheridan, Sodemann and Stottler voting in the affirmative. Comms. Murray and D. Severson voted in opposition.
Comm. Murray asked if the board could use the Fund 10 money to pay off debt. Mr. Pennington read Board Policy 3320 and said no – not under the current policy. Comm. Murray asked if the board could use Fund 10 money to pay off debt, would that free up money in the operational budget. Mr. Pennington said he would have to check on that.

Announcements. President Sodemann announced that the next regular board meeting has been changed from March 22 to Thursday, March 31.
Dr. Schulte said the district welcomes donations from citizens.
Comm. Stottler commended the Craig Spotlighters Show Choir for their good citizenship and sportsmanship at the competition in Minnesota.

Future Board Agenda Items. None

Adjournment. Comm. D. Severson moved, seconded by Comm. Hesselbacher, to adjourn at 10:40 p.m. The motion carried on a 9-0 vote.

_________________________________
Nancy M. Hewes, Assistant Board Clerk
Janesville Board of Education
 

Janesville Board of Education Meeting

  Educational Services Cente

February 22, 2011 - 6:30 p.m.

Commissioners present:  Ardrey, Dommershausen, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sheridan, Sodemann and Stottler.

President Sodemann called the regular meeting to order which was duly noticed on February 18, 2011 through posting and notification of the press in accordance with Wisconsin §19.84.

Marshall Middle School students Madison Schultz, Alex Krueger, Alex Nielsen, Blake Janes, Raneisha Hudson, Brianna Bush and Shanequa LaCount led the Pledge of Allegiance.

Citizen Comments.  Jack Hoag, 4155 Eastridge, felt there was no question that the district budget shortfall situation was a community problem.  He felt the current situation should not be borne by the present teachers and students – the entire community needs to bear it.  Schools are very important to the entire community.  Mr. Hoag felt the board needed to tax to the maximum allowable limit because it is the fiscally and socially responsible action to take.  He said past actions of the board in not taxing to the maximum have cost the district thousands of dollars in state aid.  He also felt the board needed to tap into the fund balance for a minimum of $5 million because these are unusual times.  He said the board might also consider furlough days, early retirement incentives, etc.  Mr. Hoag said the most important assets of the district are the students and the teachers.

            Maria Griffin, 736 Prairie Ave., a high school senior, said reducing class offerings affects not only students, but also teachers.  She said she heard students were going to be arrested tomorrow if they decided to participate in a walkout.  President Sodemann said he did not know that there were going to be any arrests.

            Rebecca LaCount, 1325 Shannon Dr., said she grew up in a small town where not many fine arts classes were offered in school.  She said it makes her angry that her daughter will not have a wide range of art and music classes.  She also has a younger daughter who struggles in her core classes.  Ms. LaCount said many kids come to school solely because of the music, art and drama classes offered.  She asked the board to look at all resources available.  She suggested that the board look to see if there is really a need to offer a four-year-old kindergarten program.

            Rachel Atchinson-Bennett, 2115 S. Terrace St., read a letter from Lyle Shumate, a 1992 Parker High School graduate.  Mr. Shumate said he took German in high school and participated in the German exchange program.  It was a very influential experience.  He received a BA in German and joined the US Navy as a military intelligence analyst.  He served in the Balkans, Bosnia and Yugoslavia and is now living in Croatia.  He said his high school education served him well and felt foreign language studies should be mandatory for students beginning at a younger age.

            Angie Parrell, 408 S. Main St., said this is her first year teaching at Craig High School.  She taught previously in Anderson, IN a former General Motors town.  She said Anderson is trying to rebuild as is Janesville.  She said after GM left Anderson enrollment dropped, families moved away, open enrollments dropped and revenue decreased.  She said the 946 drop in student enrollment represented a loss of $5.7 million in state aid.  She felt if the board was not careful, Janesville might be headed down a similar path.  Ms. Parrell felt teacher and class cuts in Janesville will result in a loss of students and state aid.  She suggested preserving course options to set the tone that Janesville cares about its students.  If the community supports the education of students, it will support the future of Janesville.

            Hilary Kraus, 378 Glen St., said she was a ninth grade student at Craig who was concerned about the classes that are being cut.  Hilary said she takes pride in the classes and teachers who make Janesville schools great.  She understands that times are tough, changes need to be made, and everyone must do things differently.  Hilary thought parents would be willing to pay more so their children have a good education.  She asked the board to re-think their position to cut classes at both high schools.

            Carrie Klukas, 3735 Stoneridge Dr., said her son has some learning disabilities but the technology education classes are very important to him.  If the board cuts these classes, he will have lost future opportunities.  Ms. Klukas said she would seriously think about home schooling her children if the board took away classes.

            Jaimi Jensen, 1816 S. Walnut St., said she knew the district was facing hard times and it is hard to fill the budget gap.  However, she felt very strongly about maintaining world language courses. 

            Darlene Marsena, 1252 Monterey Lane, said she was addressing the board because she heard the teacher contracts were settled through the 2012-13 school year.  She said there were many people in her neighborhood who were single parents or widows.  This will add to their property taxes.  Ms. Marsena said she was retired from the state and living on a limited income.  She said the easy way out of the budget shortfall was to raise taxes.  Many residents cannot be absorbing higher taxes.  She felt everyone has to sacrifice.  She suggested that the teacher contracts be re-opened.

Student Representatives to the Board.  Emily Dyer, representative from the Janesville Academy for International Studies, said global issues are the focus of JAIS students for second semester.  Students are identifying global issues they will research in depth.  The students have held video conferences with students in Haiti and other schools in Canada, London and Florida.  JAIS students raised funds to help re-build schools in Haiti.  Students have also video conferenced with students in the Democratic Republic of Congo.  JAIS students have formed a nuclear non-proliferation team that will present their work in California in April along with 10 schools from the U.S. and 10 schools from Russia.  Academy students are participating in many other activities and a state-wide reading program.  As this is the 15^th anniversary of the Peace Corps, JAIS students will recognize former Peace Corps volunteers from Janesville.  The students have had the opportunity to hear from a number of guest speakers on global issues.

            Tasha McNall, representing the Janesville Virtual Academy, said she has been attending the JVA for a year due to health reasons.  She said JVA offers many courses that she can access from home.  She likes the fact that she can give her full attention to one class at a time rather than having to handle several classes at a time in a traditional high school setting.  Tasha said the seniors are getting ready to take the ACT test.  All students will be taking the MAP test.  She felt the JVA offered a great alternative learning setting.

Presentation on Chestnut House Occupational and Independent Community Education (CHOICE) Program.  Ms. Hilliker said Comms. Murray and D. Severson asked to have a presentation on the CHOICE Program at the Chestnut House.  She said the Chestnut House was one of the first remodeling projects for the Craig/Parker Advanced Construction course in 1988.  Once the project was completed, it was put on the market for sale for some time.  At the same time, there was a need for students with disabilities to develop their living skills.  The Chestnut House became a learning lab.  Ms. Hilliker said the CHOICE program is in its second year.  It is a community-based transitional program for Craig and Parker high school students.  The district has been able to use $121,000 of the stimulus funding to renovate the house and develop the CHOICE program. 

            Judy Wilson, special education instructor, explained that the high school students start their day at the YMCA three mornings a week and then come to the Chestnut House.  The students also work in the community.  This program is a community-based transitional model for students with cognitive disabilities ages 18-21.  The students are usually in their last year in the Janesville public schools and have completed the academic requirements for graduation.  Ms. Wilson said the students learn personal finance skills, the value of volunteering, work experience in the community, leisure skills, cooking skills and home maintenance skills.  An important part of this program is learning how to use public transportation and driving independently.  Ms. Wilson said some of the students earn money for the program by working at the MacFarlane Pheasant Farm.  The students have also started their own enterprise “Muffin of the Month Club.”  Comm. Murray said he would like to see a budget for the Chestnut House.  Mr. Pennington said he did not break out the Chestnut House expenses as a separate project, but could provide Comm. Murray with the cost figures. 

Consider Approval of Consent Agenda.  Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. D. Severson, to:  a.  approve and place on file the minutes of the February 8, 2011 regular board meeting;  b. Resignations/Retirements.  The administrative position resignation of Shawn Mangar, Assistant Principal at Craig High School, effective February 18, 2011;  c.  Appointments.  The limited term teaching position appointments of Toren Johnson, effective February 7, 2011; and Kristin O’Brien-Schooff, effective January 24, 2011;  d.  Authorization to send final notice of non-renewal, teacher (not related to performance) to Toren Johnson, effective June 10, 2011; e.  Commendations.  The motion carried on a 9-0 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sheridan, Sodemann and Stottler voting in the affirmative.

Consider Adoption of AFSCME Local 938 Custodial/Maintenance/Food Service Unit 2009-2013 Contract Agreement.  Angel Tullar, Manager of Employee Relations, presented the details of the tentative agreement reached on January 25, 2011.  She said this unit consisted of 87 custodial staff, 16 maintenance staff, 71 food service workers, 3 delivery and stockroom personnel and one audio/video technician.  She said the most recent contract expired June 30, 2009.  Ms. Tullar reviewed significant portions of the tentative agreement which expires June 30, 2013.  A number of the changes were made to match other contracts.  The members of this union accepted a wage freeze for 2009-10 and settled for a salary increase of two percent per cell across the board for the next three years.  Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. Hesselbacher, to adopt the AFSCME Local 938 Custodial/Maintenance/Food Service Unit 2009-2013 Contract Agreement.  Comm. Murray said the board negotiating team has tried to get all unions on the same path for contract expiration dates.  He felt district employees are being asked to do more with less and for less.  Comm. Stottler agreed with Comm. Murray.  She felt this contract was bargained in good faith.  Comm. Sheridan stated that the district may be faced with a $500 per pupil reduction in state aid.  This would be an additional $5 million reduction on top of the $6.5 million the board has asked the Superintendent to make.  Comm. Sheridan said she could not support this tentative agreement in light of the proposed cuts in state aide.  She asked if the negotiating team could go back and re-negotiate union members paying part of their retirement and health insurance premiums.  If all unions would agree to this, it would cover the $5 million district budget shortfall. 

            Comm. D. Severson thanked citizens for their emails.  He felt it was good to hear from so many people.  He appreciated the work of the negotiating team.  He said the board gave the negotiating team guidelines and parameters.  However, things have changed since the start of negotiations.  The district deficit for 2011-12 stands at $10.4 million plus another $5 million.  Taxing to the maximum allowable limit would result in revenue of $4.5 million.  If the board passes this tentative agreement, he asked how the board would go back to the JEA and ask them to re-open their contract.  If the board passes this AFSCME tentative agreement, it will lock them in until 2013.  He suggested that the board pause on adoption of this contract for 30 days due to all the uncertainty in Madison.

            Comm. Dommershausen said he would like the AFSCME members to be under the protection of a settled contract.  However, he felt it should only be approved if the members agree to pay the retirement and health insurance premium rates suggested under Governor Walker’s budget repair bill.

            Comm. Hesselbacher said she would support adoption of the AFSCME tentative agreement.  She felt it was bargained in good faith.  If the budget deficit is as large as predicted, she suggested asking all employees to make concessions.

            President Sodemann said he had some concerns last fall when some of the political changes were predicted.  The bulk of the district’s budget is people and benefits.  If things had not changed in Madison, he would support the AFSCME tentative agreement because it is similar to the JEA settlement agreement.  He did not think it was fiscally sound to approve this tentative agreement.  He now felt that the JEA contract will have to be re-opened in order to fill the local deficit.  That is why he did not think the board should support adoption of the AFSCME tentative agreement. 

            Comm. P. Severson said he was really on the fence with his decision.  He hoped union leaders will tell their members that there will be layoffs with this proposed settlement.  Comm. P. Severson said he was not happy that the AFSCME tentative agreement was tied to another union contract.  He thought there should be three entirely separate union contracts.

            Comm. Ardrey said the School District of Janesville is showing the rest of the state how to debate with passion about finances.  At the end of the day, the district will have to balance the budget on the backs of people – employees and taxpayers.  He felt Comms. Murray and Stottler negotiated within the direction given by the board.

            Comm. Ardrey moved, seconded by Comm. Murray, to end debate on the question.  The motion carried on a 6-3 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Murray, Hesselbacher, P. Severson, Sheridan and Stottler voting in the affirmative.  Comms. Dommershausen, D. Severson and Sodemann voted in opposition.

            The pending motion to adopt the AFSCME Local 938 Custodial/Maintenance/Food Service Unit 2009-2013 Contract Agreement carried on a 5-4 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Hesselbacher, Murray, P. Severson and Stottler voting in the affirmative.  Comms. Dommershausen, D. Severson, Sheridan and Sodemann voted in opposition.

Discussion and Authorization to Send Preliminary Notice of Non-Renewal, Support Staff – (not related to performance reasons).  Dr. Sperry said this request is tied to budget reduction.  Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. Ardrey, to authorize sending preliminary notice of non-renewal, support staff – (not related to performance reasons to Beth Kramer, effective June 10, 2011.  Ms. Hilliker said the transition specialist position has been in the district since 1984.  This employee helps bridge the gap as students with disabilities move between grade levels and keeps the district informed of regulations.  Ms. Hilliker felt the district was currently in a very good place with regard to compliance with special education law.  The motion carried on an 8-0 vote.  Comm. Dommershausen was out of the room.

Personnel Committee Report.  Update on non-represented employee agreements.  Chairperson Sheridan said the committee did not make any recommendation on current contracts for non-represented employees.  She said committee members did suggest items they will look for in future contracts.  Committee members asked that the full contract be included in the board packet when the candidate comes to the board for approval.  Chairperson Sheridan reported that breach of contract for damages provisions are being enforced.  Suggestions were made for clarifying some of the contract language and adding a payback clause for course reimbursement.

What’s Right in Education/Dashboard.  Dr. Schulte presented current data points for several categories.  January 2011 truancy rates are lower than last January.  The truancy rate has dropped over the past four years.  Student expulsions are running slightly ahead of last year at this same point in time.  Parents will be asked to fill out the parent satisfaction survey during conferences at the end of February.  Custodial and maintenance overtime costs continue to be reduced. 

Update on Staffing Related to Teacher/Pupil Ratios and Secondary Subject Selection.  Dr. Sperry said many discussions have taken place.  They have listened to students and talked with principals.  Based on the staffing assumptions, it is anticipated that there will be a reduction of 35-38 full time equivalent positions.  The Boundary Lines Committee will be meeting this week and is looking at data that may support closing an elementary building.  Dr. Sperry said the staffing plan will be presented to the Superintendent’s Advisory Committee on March 1.  It will be presented to the board on March 8 and discussed at the March 22 board meeting.  The board will be asked for approval of a staffing plan at the April 12 board meeting.  Comm. P. Severson asked about staffing cuts at the middle schools.  Dr. Sperry said there will be some staff reductions due to class size and some as a result of elective selections by the students.  Comm. Stottler asked about a recent communication with regard to when and how many layoff notices needed to be given.  Dr. Sperry said he had just received new information this afternoon.  He will

be seeking legal advice.  If there is a need to non-renew any employees under a contract before February 28, a special board meeting will need to be called.

Update on Sound Barrier at Craig High School.  Mr. Pennington said the district has received two bids in response to their requests for proposals.  The bids have been opened.  There is a large discrepancy between the two.  The Buildings and Grounds Committee will be looking at the bids at their meeting on February 24, 2011.  Mr. Pennington said the barrier will be in place when the chillers need to be turned on this spring.  President Sodemann asked about going back to the architect and/or contractor and asking for some financial consideration on the cost of the barrier.  Mr. Pennington said that is still being discussed.

Update and Consider Possible Action on Budget Process.  Mr. Pennington said they have been reviewing the budget and find that the deficit is now $10.4 million.  Administration has been working on making $6.5 million in cuts as directed by the board.  Comm. Dommershausen had PowerPoint slides which showed that the School District of Janesville spent less money per child, and less in taxes per child than other comparable districts and also the state average.  He felt past school boards had protected the taxpayers very well.  Comm. Dommershausen said he has heard rumor of the legislature imposing a property tax freeze.  He felt the board should set a tax rate now because they could always lower it before the end of October.  Comm. Dommershausen did not want to use the Fund 10 balance money to balance the budget.  Comm. Dommershausen suggested several motions to set a tax levy, but they were ruled out of order after consultation with attorney Moore. 

            Comm. Hesselbacher moved, seconded by Comm. Dommershausen, to ask administration to give the board a rough picture of what it would look like with budget cuts of $15 million, $10.9 million and $6.5 million.  Comm. Hesselbacher said she would like to see what the worse-case scenario would look like if taxes were raised to the maximum allowed by law and assuming no additional revenue.  Dr. Sperry said he would not know for a day or two until he hears from legal counsel regarding the timing of non-renewal notices.  Comm. Murray felt the board should concentrate on just the $6.5 million for the time being.  Comm. D. Severson felt the other scenarios could be extrapolated from the $6.5 million reduction.  The motion failed on a 2-7 vote with Comms. Dommershausen and Hesselbacher voting in the affirmative.  Comms. Ardrey, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sheridan, Sodemann and Stottler voted in opposition.

            Comm. D. Severson asked about the possibility of re-opening the JEA contract.  Comm. Murray said he would rather address re-opening contracts with all of the other unions at the same time.  President Sodemann asked administration to contact legal counsel with regard to re-opening contract settlements.  Comm. D. Severson asked President Sodemann to call a special board meeting to get this issue resolved.

Announcements.  Comm. Ardrey noted the joint Boundary Lines and Buildings and Grounds Committee meetings scheduled for February 24 at 5:30 p.m. at Franklin Middle School.  Dr. Schulte mentioned the “Conversations Toward Excellence” on March 1 from 6:30-7:30 p.m. at Jackson Elementary School LMC. 

Future Board Agenda Items.  Comm. P. Severson asked that a report be given on the pilot program of scheduling recess before lunch at Wilson School.  President Sodemann asked why the valedictorians and salutatorians are announced now rather than in May at the end of the school year. 

Adjournment  Comm. Sheridan moved, seconded by Comm. Dommershausen, to adjourn at 9:40 p.m.  The motion carried on a 9-0 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sheridan, Sodemann and Stottler voting in the affirmative.

________________________________

Nancy M. Hewes, Assistant Board Clerk

Janesville Board of Education

Janesville Board of Education Meeting
Educational Services Center
February 8, 2011
6:30 p.m.

Commissioners present: Ardrey, Dommershausen, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sheridan, Sodemann and Stottler.

President Sodemann called the meeting to order which was duly noticed on February 4, 2011 through posting and notification of the press in accordance with Wisconsin §19.84.

Marshall Middle School students Jack Elliott and Nathan Weigel led the Pledge of Allegiance.

Citizen Comments. Toby Allison, 1003 E. Racine St., said his children attend Marshall Middle School and Craig High School. He was unhappy with the programs and classes that are potentially being cut. He asked if any athletic programs were being considered for cuts in order to bring some money back into the school system.
Jesse Bell, 1239 N. Martin Rd., a freshman at Craig, expressed his displeasure with cuts to German I and II classes. He said the students are really sad about this. He said German is the second most spoken language on the internet. Germany is the largest automotive exporter in Europe. He talked about the need to have additional foreign language classes in order to be accepted at certain colleges. Jesse also talked about other classes facing potential cuts.
Kirk Henry, 1617 Randolph Rd., said he did not think the board had considered all of the possible options with regard to the current budget problems. He did not think it was good to cut teachers, social workers and increase class size because it would downgrade the quality of education.
Jared Beighley, 1900 Conde St., said he is a junior at Parker and is very concerned about the cuts to the music courses at Parker and Craig. He said he was also speaking on behalf of students facing potential reductions in art courses. He said options at Parker for art students are extremely limited. Jared asked the board if transportation will be provided for students to attend site specific classes. He asked if students or parents would be reimbursed for driving their own vehicles to attend site specific classes. He felt Janesville was losing its reputation for providing good education when classes are being dropped.
Leon Freeburg, 1803 Roxbury Rd., said he has lived in Janesville since 1972 and has seen the city’s population become more diversified. He also noted the current high rate of unemployment. He hoped the board was serious about providing a quality education to children. He asked that the board try not to cut classes that will help children be locally and internationally competitive.
Jamie Lilburn, 1238 Center Ave., expressed concern about classes being cut and site specific classes. She said she is going to France this summer. She is planning to take French V next year, but it will only be offered at Craig, not Parker. She said transportation will impact her ability to be involved in activities before and after school. She asked if French IV and V could be combined and offered at Parker.
Molly Surber, 4303 Hearthstone Dr., is a junior a Craig and is concerned about the future of the music department. Molly said she plans to pursue a career in music. However, she will be required to travel to Parker to take the Advanced Placement music theory class. She said this will interfere with other before school activities that will enhance her acceptance into a college performing arts program. She also mentioned concert and men’s choir cuts.
Al Lembrich, 541 Miller Ave., said some board members are responsible for part of the $10 million budget shortfall by approving a Cadillac teachers’ contract and approving new positions. He felt teachers could refer students and families to the many social agencies in our area. Mr. Lembrich also felt the board should take a closer look at maintenance and clerical staffing to see if duties could be consolidated. He felt the board should set a policy allowing up to 35 students in classrooms above second grade. He said the school board was elected and responsible to the electors for fiscal control. If the board continues to spend beyond its means and raises taxes with little fiscal responsibility, it will add to the already high level of foreclosures, homelessness, and increase the exodus of families and children from Janesville, and in the process bankrupt the educational system.
Cole Dutcher, 9147 N. Klug Rd., Milton, said he originally attended the Milton School District, but it did not offer as many music options as Craig and Parker. He said there are other courses in the world languages and art departments that are also being cut. Cole noted that site specific courses impact morning extracurricular activities.

Student Representatives to the Board. Jaimi Jensen, Parker High School representative, said the Relay for Life kickoff was held last Thursday for this Student Leadership Council sponsored event which will take place on April 8-9. The French Club will attend “Les Miserables” in Milwaukee. The Parker cheerleaders will sponsor a fundraiser at the Parker/Craig girls basketball game in support of childhood cancer. Winter sports teams are busy competing. February 23-24 are parent/teacher conferences. French students are busy planning a trip to France this summer. Spanish students will be visiting Argentina. The Parker Playhouse will be presenting a “Midsummer’s Night Dream.”
Rachel Philipps, representing Craig High School, said underclassmen have completed course selection for next school year. The honor wall committee is soliciting names of honorees. She said 16 students were medalists in the Scholastic Arts competition and 31 DECA students competed with 20 of them earning medals. A $25,000 grant was received for the Reality Check program. Love pops will be sold. A blood drive will be held on February 14. The solo and ensemble event will be held on February 26.

Presentation on Fund Balance with Regard to Bond Rating. Carol Wirth, President of Wisconsin Public Finance Professionals, has provided financial services to the district and Rock County since the 1980’s. She recently assisted the district with a $16 million bond issuance to pay off the district’s Wisconsin Retirement System liability. She was asked to give a presentation on the fund balance and its impact on the district’s bond rating.
Ms. Wirth said the district currently has a Aa2 rating from Moody’s Investor Service and a AA- rating from Standard & Poor’s. She presented information in a question and answer format. In answer to how much fund balance would be required to maintain the district’s current bond rating, Ms. Wirth said the rating agencies do not provide a specific amount or percentage. What factors are considered in a bond rating? She said economic factors such as tax base and employment; administrative/management policies; financial reserves, strategy and fiscal policies; and the amount of debt carried. She said the fund balance is a management tool to provide structural balance in operations. The board adopted a formal fund balance policy in 2008 with certain percentage ranges reserved for cash flow, self-insured health claims stabilization, and unreserved-undesignated categories. The district has not had to borrow to meet cash flow needs for the past eight years.
On the question of how Janesville’s reserves compare to other districts, Ms. Wirth explained that the ratings are national ratings compared on medians. There are 63 Wisconsin school districts with an Aa2 rating from Moody’s. There are 68 districts with a lower rating and 17 districts in two higher categories. Janesville’s total general fund revenue ($104,940) is greater than the median ($32,743). The general fund balance as a percent of revenue is also greater – 25.8 percent compared with the median of 20.3 percent for other districts. With reference to debt, the district’s ratios are slightly higher than the median of the 63 other districts. Janesville is above Moody’s median for Aa2 in the financial statistics area but below the median in the economic/demographic areas. The medians are based on the 2000 census.
Ms. Wirth addressed what the cost is to the district if the bond rating is lowered. She said the bondholders of existing debt are harmed because the value of the securities is lowered. Future interest rates will be higher. She noted that substantial deterioration in the general fund reserves could bring the rating down. Likewise, significant expansion in the district’s tax base could bring the rating up.
Under Standard & Poor’s rating, there are 38 Wisconsin school districts with an AA- rating. There are 23 districts with an AA rating. Standard & Poor’s rating is based on the expectation that the district will maintain reserves consistent with historical trends, even if it decides to use a portion of its fund balance over the next fiscal year to help balance operations. Ms. Wirth said the key question rating agencies ask is how the district is going to use the fund balance reserves rather than the amount of the reserve. Ms. Wirth said the district’s strong financial policies and practices counterbalance local economic conditions. The board may have to answer the following questions with regard to financial policies and practices: What changes are contemplated? Why are the changes being made? What is the long-term plan? How will the changes impact the overall financial health of the district? How do statutory limitations imposed on the district impact financial position? Use of the fund balance – one-time expenditure versus on-going operating expenses.
Comm. Murray asked how often the district bond rating is reviewed. Ms. Wirth said whenever it is planning to borrow money. They may also be rated unexpectedly with what is called a surveillance rating. In response to Comm. Stottler, Ms. Wirth said if the district lowers its fund balance to the revised 17 percent minimum, the district would be lower than the median in two categories and that might lower the district’s rating. Ms. Wirth said a downgrade in bond rating would not be good for Janesville. It would impact any type of future borrowing – short term or long term. Potential bondholders would be reluctant to invest in any future bond issuances.

Consider Approval of Consent Agenda. Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. Stottler, to approve: a. Minutes of the January 25, 2011 regular board meeting; b. Receive and File Fund Summary Report. Revenues in the aggregate for January 2011 were $14,998,755 and aggregate expenditures were $9,852,811; c. Resignations/Retirements. None; and d. Appointments. The limited term teaching position appointment of Jennifer Flury, effective January 24, 2011. The motion carried on a 9-0 vote.

Discussion and Authorization to Send Preliminary Notice of Non-Renewal, Teacher – (not related to performance reasons). Dr. Sperry noted the preliminary notice of non-renewal included in the board packet for an alternative education teacher at Parker High School. This is a limited term person who was hired for second semester only. This position may not be filled for the 2011-12 school year. Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. Dommershausen, to approve authorization to send preliminary notice of non-renewal to a limited term alternative education teacher at Parker High School. The motion carried on a 9-0 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sheridan, Sodemann and Stottler voting in the affirmative.

Discussion and Authorization to Send Final Notice of Non-Renewal, Teachers (limited term contract certified personnel), and Social Workers – (not related to performance reasons). Dr. Sperry said there were two separate categories for final notice. The first involved final non-renewal notice to a grade 8 social studies teacher at Franklin Middle School and Jennifer Flury, a grade 8 math teacher at Marshall Middle School. Both positions are limited term contract certified personnel for second semester only. Comm. Sheridan moved, seconded by Comm. Murray, to authorize sending final notice of non-renewal to a grade 8 social studies teacher at Franklin Middle School and to Jennifer Flury, a grade 8 math teacher at Marshall Middle School not related to performance reasons. The motion carried on a 9-0 vote.
The second category involved final non-renewal notice to four social workers, not related to performance reasons. Dr. Sperry explained that 50 percent of social worker C’s salary was paid through SAGE funding. That funding may not be available next year. Social worker D’s salary was paid 100 percent through Stimulus funding which ends September 30, 2010. Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. Sodemann, to send final non-renewal notices (not related to performance reasons) to Tarah Hofer, Jessica Grandt-Turke, Danyel McIntosh-Robb and Verlene Orr. Comm. D. Severson showed a chart indicating that Janesville has more FTE (Full Time Equivalent) social workers and a lower student/social worker ratio than Appleton, Eau Claire, Oshkosh, Sheboygan and Waukesha. Taking the social workers, counselors and psychologists as a team (48 FTE), Janesville has the lowest student/team member ratio (214) of any of the six districts. Waukesha has the highest ratio – 412. Comm. D. Severson asked the board to consider some additional reductions. Comms. Sheridan and Hesselbacher felt Janesville’s high truancy rates and lower than state average graduation rates spoke to the need for social workers. Comm. D. Severson suggested that Janesville look at the models used by similar districts to see if changes should be made.
Comm. Hesselbacher moved, seconded by Comm. Sheridan, to amend the motion to read authorize sending final notice of non renewal notices (not related to performance reasons) to Tarah Hofer, Jessica Grandt-Turke, Danyel McIntosh-Robb and Verlene Orr, but to direct administration to continue the current level of local funding for social workers which is equal to 2.1 full time equivalent positions. The motion failed on a 3-6 vote with Comms. Dommershausen Hesselbacher and Sheridan voting in the affirmative. Comms. Ardrey, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sodemann and Stottler voted in opposition.

The pending main motion carried on a 6-3 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sodemann and Stottler voting in the affirmative. Comms. Dommershausen, Hesselbacher and Sheridan voted in opposition.

Discussion and Consider Approval of Board Finance Goals for the Fiscal 2011-12 District Budget. Keith Pennington said administration continues to seek guidance from the board on finance goals. He said he will be re-examining the budget shortfall information sheet he prepared for the December 14, 2010 board meeting. President Sodemann said the board might choose to give administration preliminary direction on a tax levy percentage or amount and/or possible use of fund balance monies so administration can determine a final dollar amount of budget reduction.
Comm. D. Severson provided some informational charts covering the 2004-05 through 2010-11 school years showing that the student population has decreased by 7 percent over these years. He based this on the Third Friday September Count (K-12) going from 10,326 students to 9,641 students over the same timeframe. Comm. D. Severson said his charts would show that the district has actually increased staffing while enrollment has dropped. A chart showed the ratio of the number of students/administrators has dropped from 333 in 2004-05 to 301 in 2010-11, a decrease of 10 percent. The students/administrative support staff ratio has dropped from 191 to 173, a decrease of 10 percent. The students/Janesville Education Association FTE membership ratio has fallen from 12.2 to 11.7, a drop of 3.9 percent. The students/secretary, clerk, aide union FTE membership ratio has fallen from 41 to 36, a decrease of 16 percent. The students/custodial, maintenance, food service union FTE membership ratio has dropped from 77 to 64, a decrease of 21 percent. The students/other FTE employee category ratio has dropped from 356 to 290, a decrease of 23 percent. Comm. D. Severson also showed a chart showing the staffing percentage increase from the 2004-05 levels for each of the same groups. Total 2010-11 FTE district staffing has increased 8.69 percent from 2004-05 levels. In order to reduce staffing to 2004-05 levels the following number of positions would have to be reduced from each category: 3 administrators, 6 administrative support, 32 JEA union members, 44 secretary/clerk/aide union members, 31 custodial/maintenance/food service union members, and 8 positions in the other category. This would result in a total reduction of 124 FTE staff positions.
Dr. Schulte noted that an administrative position of high school principal had been cut. The Preschool 4 Janesville coordinator position is on hold and another coordinator position retirement has been announced. She also said consideration is being given to a shared elementary principal. Dr. Schulte said she would be able to respond with more clear administrative cuts after she receives the board’s financial goals.
Comm. Sheridan said she had heard from many JEA teachers who had expressed the idea of re-opening the JEA union contract mention that they would be willing to make some concessions on their contract in order to save colleagues’ jobs. If that is true, Comm. Sheridan requested they go to their union leaders and state that. She suggested the other unions might consider this. Comm. D. Severson asked Dr. Schulte what the possible administrative reductions she mentioned might amount to in FTE’s and dollar wise. Dr. Schulte said 4 FTE’s for approximately $350,000. Comm. Stottler moved, seconded by Comm. Murray, that administration be directed to move forward with development of the 2011-12 budget with a total reduction of $6 million as compared to the 2010-11 budget which can include cuts to the staffing plan,
buildings and grounds, capital improvement, etc. Comm. Ardrey commented that the board was given information that January 31 was the deadline for preliminary notice of non-renewal for administrators. He said they were also given the preliminary dollar shortfall in December. Comm. Ardrey offered a friendly amendment to delete listing the areas of cuts. The consensus of the board was to accept the friendly amendment.
Comm. Sheridan noted that the board did have conversation about non-renewal of administrators a couple of times, especially with regard to two director positions back in December. President Sodemann said he was not in favor of using fund 10 balance to close the remaining budgetary gap after hearing Ms. Wirth’s comments. This left the tax levy and he could not justify taxing at 10.5 percent to make up the difference.
Comm. D. Severson moved, seconded by Comm. Ardrey, to amend the motion by directing administration to reduce the 2011-12 budget by $7 million as compared to the 2010-11 budget. The amendment failed on a 4-5 vote with Comms. Ardrey, D. Severson, Sheridan and Sodemann voting in the affirmative. Comms. Dommershausen, Hesselbacher, Murray, P. Severson and Stottler voting in opposition.
Comm. D. Severson moved, seconded by Comm. Ardrey, to amend the motion by directing administration to reduce the 2011-12 budget by $6.5 million as compared to the 2010-11 budget. The amendment carried on a 5-4 vote with Comms. Ardrey, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sheridan and Sodemann voting in the affirmative. Comms. Dommershausen, Hesselbacher, Murray and Stottler voting in opposition.
The main motion as amended to direct administration to reduce the 2011-12 budget by $6.5 million as compared to the 2010-11 budget carried on a 6-3 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sheridan and Sodemann voting in the affirmative. Comms. Hesselbacher, Murray and Stottler voted in opposition.

President Sodemann called for a 5 minute recess.

Discussion and Consider Approval of Possible Changes in Teacher/Pupil Staffing Ratios. Dr. Sperry distributed a revised elementary staffing scenario showing eight scenarios plus the staffing plan assumptions which the board approved in October 2010. The chart showed the reduction in FTE between 2010-11 and 2011-12, the estimated salary and benefit savings, and the number of “hot spots” (6-19) when the grade level is at or near the teacher/pupil ratio (TPR) maximum cutoff before adding an additional teacher. The staffing plan assumption line and scenarios one through three fall within current board policy staffing guidelines. Scenarios four through eight would all require a change in board policy. The FTE teacher reductions range between 6 and 23 FTE positions for all of the scenarios. Dr. Sperry said the elementary principals are anxious to begin scheduling. Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. Ardrey, to approve scenario three teacher/pupil staffing ratios. (1:25 K-1; 1:25 2-3; 1:30 4-5) Comm. Hesselbacher asked about classroom space being able to accommodate additional computer stations and student desks for the increased class size. Comm. D. Severson moved, seconded by Comm. Ardrey, to amend the motion to approve scenario eight teacher/pupil staffing ratios. (1:25 K-1; 1:28 2-3; 1:32 4-5) Comm. Ardrey said he has visited all of the classrooms and seen many variations on desk arrangement. He asked if an evaluation had been done to see how many classrooms could accommodate increased class size. From a Boundary Lines Committee standpoint, he felt as committee
chairman that the point would be reached where he could recommend that serious consideration could be given to closing a school building. President Sodemann asked if there might be increased aide costs with the increased class sizes. Dr. Sperry said it would be hard to determine that amount at this time. Comms. Sheridan and Hesselbacher felt student achievement might suffer with increased class sizes. Comm. Stottler asked if administration felt they could reach $6.5 million in budget cuts using scenario three as part of the equation. Dr. Sperry said he would have a better feel for it when middle and high school scheduling is completed. The motion to amend failed on a 2-7 vote with Comms. D. Severson and Sodemann voting in the affirmative. Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Hesselbacher, Murray, P. Severson, Sheridan and Stottler voted in opposition.
Comm. D. Severson moved, seconded by Comm. Ardrey, to amend the motion to approve scenario seven teacher/pupil staffing ratios. (1:25 K-1; 1:25 2-3; 1:32 4-5) Comm. D. Severson said this scenario would reduce the number of hot spots from 19 in scenario three to 14 in scenario seven. It would maintain the same amount of savings as scenario three. Comm. Sheridan asked Dr. Sperry which scenario he would recommend. Dr. Sperry said in discussion with the directors and building principals, he would recommend scenario three. The motion to amend failed on a 2-7 vote with Comms. D. Severson and Sodemann voting in the affirmative. Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Hesselbacher, Murray, P. Severson, Sheridan and Stottler. In response to Comm. D. Severson’s question, Dr. Sperry said he may have to add some teaching contingencies to the staffing plan to cover the hot spots.
The pending motion to approve scenario three teacher/pupil staffing ratios carried on a 9-0 vote.

Consider Approval of 2011 Summer School. Steve Huth, Summer School Director, said the district is again offering comprehensive Summer School programming for elementary, middle and high school students. Course selection begins on March 12 for elementary and middle school students. High school course selection opens on March 19. “Carousel” will be the regional theatre production this year. Comm. P. Severson asked that instructions clarify what age parents should enter for their child. Comm. Stottler asked which fiscal year Summer School is recorded. Mr. Huth said it spans both fiscal years. Mr. Pennington said he would send board members a memo explaining this. Comm. Murray asked about the high electrical cost of operating Summer School at Kennedy. Mr. Huth said Mr. Eichman was monitoring this situation. Comm. Sheridan moved, seconded by Comm. D. Severson, to approve 2011 Summer School. The motion carried on a 9-0 vote.

Distribution and Discussion of Board-Requested Schedule of District Fees. Mr. Pennington provided a list of enrollment and other fees that had been requested by board members. Craig and Parker course fees and school fees were also included. School fee information from the Department of Public Instruction was included. Mr. Pennington said administration will review these fees and bring a recommendation forward at a future board meeting.

Discussion and Consider Approval of Board Proposal to Form a School/Community Transportation Committee. Comm. Hesselbacher said she has served on the School/Community Truancy Committee for the past six years. Transportation is a major problem for many families
for a variety of reasons. The lack of reliable, safe transportation contributes toward poor attendance and truancy at all grade levels. This committee will assess needs and identify options. Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. D. Severson, to approve the board proposal to form a School/Community Transportation Committee. The motion carried on an 8-1 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, Sheridan, Sodemann and Stottler voting in the affirmative. Comm. P. Severson voted in opposition.

Announcements. Comm. Stottler said the Craig Spotlighters Show Choir would be performing in Fort Atkinson on February 12, 2011.
Dr. Schulte noted the Conversations Toward Excellence board listening session set for February 17 at 3:30 p.m. in the Jefferson Elementary School library/media center.

Future Board Agenda Items. None

Adjournment. Comm. D. Severson moved, seconded by Comm. Stottler, to adjourn at 10:30 p.m. The motion carried on a 9-0 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sheridan, Sodemann and Stottler voting in the affirmative.

_________________________________
Nancy M. Hewes, Assistant Board Clerk
Janesville Board of Education
 

January 2011

Janesville Board of Education Meeting
Educational Services Center
January 25, 2011
6:30 p.m.

Commissioners present: Ardrey, Dommershausen, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sodemann and Stottler.
Commissioner absent: Sheridan.

President Sodemann called the regular meeting to order which was duly noticed on January 21, 2011 through posting and notification of the press in accordance with Wisconsin §19.84.

Craig High School student Irene Chung led the Pledge of Allegiance.

Board Recognition. Stephanie Kortyna, a Jackson Elementary teacher, recognized John Flora for being a lunch buddy and volunteering each afternoon until 5:30 p.m.; Connie Campbell, who comes every day to help students with spelling; Alice Sprecher, who helps with the breakfast program and reading with students; Barb Kronquist, an RSVP volunteer who tutors students. Donna Raey was not present. President Sodemann presented each honoree with a Certificate of Outstanding Achievement.

Citizen Comments. Heather Conaway, 1021 W. Holmes St., said her daughter suffers from a lung disease. She has been working with Ms. Grant, a social worker, to develop a 504 plan to help her stay in school. She said Ms. Grant has also helped her son. Ms. Conaway did not know how she or her children would manage without the services of a social worker at Wilson school.
Jennifer Drach, 308 Jackman St., a teacher at Wilson school, said Ms. Grandt is very busy each day helping students. She said Ms. Grandt has helped reduce the truancy rate at Wilson by 7 percent since 2007 so the children can be at school and ready to learn. This is the first time Wilson has had no truant students in the first quarter. Ms. Drach told of all of the work that social workers do. She noted that 96 percent of the Wilson students are living below the national poverty line. Social workers also provide references to other community agencies to help students and their families. Ms. Drach said 70 of the 527 students who were identified as homeless during 2009-10 were from Wilson. She said social workers help the neediest of children.
Marv Odom, 816 McKinley St., believes Janesville has an excellent school district and social workers have played a big part in that reputation. Mr. Odom said his son benefitted from the help of social workers. He felt it would be a big mistake to cut back on the number of social workers. Children with problems need social workers to help them.

President Sodemann introduced himself and Kevin Murray as incumbents and Fred Shahlapour and John Burt in the audience who are candidates for school board in the Spring Election. Candidates Scott Feldt and Kirk Henry were not present.

Student Representatives to the Board. Mersadies Stewart, representing the Rock River Charter School, said she is in the GED-Option 2 program and has passed three of the five tests. Mersadies said she was in a car accident and was not able to attend regular high school for a year. RRCS helped meet her educational needs to graduate on time and hopefully go on to
college. Mersadies said she has participated in community service at KANDU Industries. RRCS received a $2,000 grant from the Tallman Foundation which will be used to purchase additional technology. She reported that 100 percent of RRCS parents attended conferences. RRCS allows students to get on the right educational track. She thanked the board for providing this alternative educational opportunity.
Dan Wittman, representing Tailoring Academics to Guide Our Students Leadership Academy (TAGOS), said he is an eighth grade student who has attended TAGOS for one year. He said he previously attended Marshall Middle School but found the traditional school setting did not work out so well. Dan said he enjoys learning at TAGOS because every day is different and he can work at his own pace. Because it is a project-based educational environment, students research a variety of topics and present their findings to their classmates. TAGOS serves students in grades 7-12. Dan said this works out well because all students help each other out. He said TAGOS is a great school and he enjoys this type of learning. He thanked the board for their support.

Consider Approval of Consent Agenda. Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. Stottler, to: a. approve and place on file the minutes of the January 11, 2011 regular board meeting; b. Resignations/Retirements. The teaching position resignation of Jennifer Bock, effective June 10, 2011; the support staff position retirement of Mary (Kathy) Boguszewski, effective June 24, 2011; c. Appointments. The teaching position appointment of Amber Beecher, effective February 11, 2011. The motion carried on an 8-0 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sodemann and Stottler voting in the affirmative.

Finance Committee Report. a. Report on board member’s proposal for potential bonding. Chairperson Stottler said Comm. Dommershausen brought forward an idea of the possibility of bonding in order to meet maintenance needs that had been tabled or cut due to district financial reductions. She said this idea is currently in a holding pattern while administration works on further development of a more detailed five-year long-term capital improvement plan. This idea is not being forwarded to the full board at this time.
b. Report on roles and responsibilities of Finance Committee and the review of Board Policy 3400, Fiscal Accounting and Reporting; Board Policy 3460 and Administrative Regulation 3460.1, Management and Accounting of School Level Funds; Board Policy 3551; Payment Procedure; and State Statute Chapters 120 and 121 for the purposes of monitoring district finances. Chairperson Stottler said she wanted to address the purpose of the Finance Committee and how much work should the committee be doing before items are advanced to the full board. It was the committee’s decision to hold more regular meetings and do more investigative and detailed work in committee with Chief Financial Officer Keith Pennington. Chairperson Stottler said Finance Committee meetings will be held once a month prior to the board meeting. She said she would like to continue to review board policies with reference to district expenditures. She said this was a discussion item only. Comm. D. Severson suggested that the committee consult with Studer Group personnel to see how similar-sized districts track and measure finances using a financial dashboard. The committee will work on the development of a financial dashboard and bring it forward to the full board at a future date.

What’s Right in Education/Dashboard. Dr. Schulte highlighted positive comments regarding Paula Stratton, Lisa Peterson and Charlie Urness at Franklin Middle School for assisting a parent; Al Lindau for helping Monroe staff with student behavior modification; Laurie Decker for technical assistance with printers; Audrey Fiore for organizing a financial aid meeting for parents; and Roosevelt Principal Stacy Kelley for conducting a parent satisfaction phone call survey. Dr. Schulte noted that district-wide giving to the United Way is up 8 percent this year. A total of 1,400 employees contributed $75,000.
The dashboard report focused on mid-term staff satisfaction survey results. An initial survey was done in May 2008 resulting in a mean score of 3.48 out of 5. The December 2010 survey was the fifth one and had a mean score of 4.07 with 91 percent of the employees completing the survey. This exceeded the goal of 4.0. Dr. Schulte felt this was due to hardwiring the tools of evidence-based leadership – rounding, scouting reports, stoplight reports, peer interview process, and LEM’s.
Areas of strength are school safety, pride in the district, and employees believe their work with students makes a difference. Areas of improvement include using best practices for running meetings, leaders providing staff with more specific feedback on their performance, and better communication by the superintendent and school leaders about mission, vision, direction, and alignment of financial decisions to direction. Dr. Schulte said the strategic planning process will begin in February. The greatest areas of improvement were employees feeling better about where they work, a feeling that they have the tools and equipment to do their work, an overall sense of improvement in safety, and feeling better about their salary and benefits package. Dr. Schulte felt all groups working together have helped the district reach these goals.

Discussion Regarding Authorization to Send Final Notice of Non-Renewal, Administrators (directors, coordinators, principals, assistant principals), Teachers (limited term contract certified personnel), Social Workers, Occupational Therapists, and Physical Therapists (not related to performance reasons). Dr. Sperry said this item was placed on the agenda for discussion only as a result of the last board meeting. This is for non-renewal for four social worker positions, not related to performance reasons. Dr. Sperry said the final notice must be acted upon by the board at the February 8 meeting. Dr. Sperry distributed information showing how the four social work positions were funded – grants, local funding and stimulus funding. He explained that local funding was through local property taxes. Dr. Sperry said social workers were a non-represented group and did not have layoff or recall provisions. Comm. Murray said he had to trust the recommendation of administration on who was recommended for non-renewal. Dr. Schulte said there is the potential to have one of these social worker positions continue. There are currently 13 social workers in the district.
Comm. Hesselbacher said the school social workers are pro-active – they establish positive relationships with parents and students beginning in the early years. She noted that social workers impact student learning when they work with students who are facing serious issues to help them build coping skills so they can concentrate on learning and improve their WKCE scores. Social workers contact parents and help reduce truancy rates. Social workers are working with the Positive Behavioral Intervention and Supports teams to improve student behavior and decrease disciplinary referrals. They also work to build positive relationships with parents by referring families to community resources and thus raise the parent satisfaction survey
scores. On the financial side, social workers brought in or kept 140 students for the Third Friday Student Count. This represented $626,816 in state aid revenue for the district. The district also receives special education reimbursement ($107,688), Medicaid billings ($4,038), and grant funding. Comm. Hesselbacher said the 13 social workers brought in $945,000 in revenue. The cost in salary and benefits for the 13 social workers totals a little over $1,000,000. Thus, the social workers bring in 89 percent of their cost – local funding accounts for only 11 percent of their cost to the district.
Comm. Stottler thanked parents for coming and advocating for their children. She did request that future speakers also think of alternative solutions to budget reductions when they ask to have positions maintained. Comm. Dommershausen said he would like to see the whole picture of staff reduction rather than suggested cuts on a piecemeal basis. Comm. D. Severson said he had asked at a previous board meeting how other school districts handled the social worker position. He said Dr. Schulte explained that social workers are not a required position and other districts have more, less or no social workers. Dr. Schulte stated that she had worked in a district that had no social worker support. She said counselors and other staff handled that function. Comm. D. Severson asked if there was any listing of how many social workers other districts employed. Comm. D. Severson asked how Janesville got to the point of employing 13 social workers. He felt the School District of Janesville has to begin looking at different models for delivering the present services. He thought the board was looking at a 6-8 percent cut in teaching staff across the district. Comm. D. Severson asked for the percent of administrators in relation to the number of students over the past 5-7 years. He felt the administrative level had remained relatively flat.
President Sodemann asked about the timeline for notification of non-renewal. Dr. Sperry said the statutory deadline is February 28 with February 22 being the last regularly scheduled board meeting in February.

Update on Board Goal to Decrease Energy Usage. Mr. Pennington, said one of the board goals was to reduce therms and kilowatt usage by five percent. Mr. Pennington reported that overall electrical usage for the first quarter of 2010-11 is up 10 percent over last year. This past summer was warmer than the previous summer and more electricity was needed. However, Van Buren Elementary actually reduced electrical usage. Natural gas usage was down first quarter. In dollars spent, there was an increase of $46,000 over first quarter of last year. Mr. Pennington said he was looking forward to the second quarter report as some of the variables should be eliminated. School staff and students are actively involved in reducing energy usage.
Comm. Ardrey stated that electricity is more costly than natural gas. Comm. P. Severson suggested looking at having solar hot water heaters for the five swimming pools at the secondary schools. Mr. Pennington said Focus on Energy has completed an energy review of Kennedy, Lincoln, Franklin and the five swimming pools. They will provide a report of their findings in the next few months. Comm. Ardrey said lights are the greatest user of energy. He said energy would be saved by re-lamping the district buildings.
 

Consider Approval of Budget Transfers and/or Amendments. Mr. Pennington said budget transfers reallocate dollars between accounts to make adjustments. The bottom line remains the same. Amendments change the bottom line through changes in revenue or expenditure items. He said some of the larger transfers are due to the sale of bonds to pay off the Wisconsin Retirement System obligation. The total budget has not changed. Comm. Stottler moved, seconded by Comm. Murray, to approve the budget transfers and amendments as presented. The motion carried on an 8-0 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sodemann and Stottler.

Update on Budget Process. Mr. Pennington said administration has been working on the budget and is now at a point where they need further direction from the board. Perhaps the Finance Committee might want to meet to discuss using some of the Fund 10 balance or increasing the tax levy to help reduce the budget deficit. Comm. Murray felt the board needed to put together some of the budget pieces. He said information showed there was currently $1.112 million in undesignated money in the Fund 10 balance. Comm. Murray thought the board should use one million dollars of the Fund 10 balance to reduce the budget deficit because it is the taxpayer’s money.
Comm. P. Severson felt the spreadsheet provided by Mr. Pennington’s office during last year’s budget sessions was a very effective tool and suggested it be used again. He would like to see ranges for the use of Fund 10 and tax levy percent increases. Mr. Pennington said he had sent the board members a worksheet where figures could be plugged in.
Comm. Hesselbacher said she and President Sodemann attended a WASB session on the effect on state aid if a district does not tax to the maximum tax levy. She said she learned that state aid is not based on how much the board levies in tax at the local level, but on how much the district spends. President Sodemann noted that if the board taxed to the maximum allowed that would result in $4.4 million and spent the one million dollars from the Fund 10 balance, the district would receive an additional $1.6 million in state aid. This would fill $7 million of the $9.8 million deficit. Mr. Pennington said the district would not receive the state aid increase until the 2012-13 budget year.
Comm. D. Severson asked for a review of the reserve percentages in the Fund 10 balance. Mr. Pennington said the cash flow range was 17-23 percent of expenditures, and 20-25 percent for anticipated insurance claims. There is $1.112 million in the unreserved/undesignated category. Comm. D. Severson thought the district should check with the bond consultant as to how low the percentages can go without affecting the district’s bond rating. Mr. Pennington suggested contacting Carol Wirth, the district’s bond representative. Comm. D. Severson asked if the auditors should be contacted to provide Fund 10 balance comparisons with other districts. He felt the district was looking at a staff reduction of 60-100 teachers.
Comm. Dommershausen felt the board had to be careful how low they go on the fund balance.
Comm. Stottler felt a budget workshop needed to be scheduled. She calculated that in order to fill the projected $10 million deficit, the district could recoup $4.4 million by taxing to the maximum (which would be a 12.6 percent tax increase), and use $1.1 million from the Fund 10 balance. She said a staff reduction of 60 teachers would net another $3.6 million in savings. That would still leave about one million dollars to be cut. Comm. Stottler said the district has not addressed the issue of pre-funding Other Post-Employment Benefits for several years. She also thought the district should have something on the district website for the community to weigh in on as to what is important to them – a scorecard similar to the one used by the City of Janesville last year. Comm. Stottler said she had no problem using the $1.1 million from the Fund 10 balance. She thought the board would have to set the tax levy at the upper end – possibly 10 percent as a starting point.
Comm. Murray suggested that the board direct administration to use one million dollars from the Fund 10 balance to start building the budget for the 2011-12 school year.
President Sodemann said he thought it was too early to give such direction at this time before seeing the staffing plan.
Comm. D. Severson asked to have any special budget meetings broadcast live. He suggested that administration prepare a staffing plan with a 60-100 teaching position reductions.
Dr. Sperry referred to the teacher staffing plan assumptions the board adopted in December 2010. He said he has prepared eight elementary staffing plan scenarios at this time. Dr. Sperry said he was referencing any changes the board might wish to make to the teacher/pupil ratios.
President Sodemann asked that a discussion of possible changes to the teacher/pupil ratios be put on the February 8 board agenda. He also felt a reduction of 60-120 teaching position reductions would need to be charted out.
Dr. Schulte said she heard direction from Comm. Murray regarding financial goals of using one million dollars of the fund balance and some increase in the tax levy. She heard Comms. D. Severson and Sodemann suggest staffing changes resulting in a reduction of 60-120 employees. She also heard from Dr. Sperry that he needs two to three weeks before he will know about middle/high school scheduling.
Comm. D. Severson felt that board needs to look at all three paths..
President Sodemann said he felt the high would be $5.4 million in reductions using the fund balance and maximum tax levy, and $4.3 million in staff reductions or other cuts to reach a total of $9.7 million. He felt some mid-points in these ranges would also be helpful to the board.
Comm. Murray said he could not support taxing to the maximum. If he took a mid-point tax increase, that would net $2.2 million plus the one million from the Fund 10 balance would result in $3.2 million in cuts. He said he would like to give administration the responsibility of coming up with an additional $6 million in cuts. He felt the board could also consider any number of other options such as increasing athletic participation fees.
Comm. Ardrey suggested giving administration a certain percentage by which to cut the budget.
President Sodemann felt the board had reached consensus on cuts of approximately $3.6 million through use of Fund 10 balance and tax levy. This would leave other budget reductions totaling $6.2 million.
Comm. Hesselbacher said she is hearing from citizens and homeowners to tax to the maximum. She would advocate for a 10 percent tax levy which would be about an $89 increase in taxes for the average homeowner.
Comm. Stottler suggested having the board meet on Monday, February 7 from 5:30-7:00 p.m. to give administration more time to collect data and the board to then give them more concrete direction.
Board of Education -7- January 25, 2011

Comm. D. Severson suggested taking a vote on February 8 for staff reduction and spending cuts.
Comm. Stottler asked to have a Finance Committee scheduled for Monday, February 7, from 5:30-7:00 p.m. President Sodemann deferred to Comm. Stottler, Chair of the Finance Committee.
Dr. Schulte said she understood that the board would give direction to administration on February 8 as to a preliminary amount for a reduction in the Fund 10 balance and also a preliminary percent for the tax levy. She asked the board for direction regarding teacher/pupil ratios.

Presentation on Student Demographics. Dr. Cargile said the student membership is down 127 students from Third Friday last year. Student ethnicity is up 4 percent to 21.9 percent with the Hispanic population showing the largest increase. There has also been an increase of 4.3 percent in the number of students receiving free and reduced lunches. Nine of the district’s schools have 50 percent or more of their students receiving free or reduced lunches. Parochial school student membership ranges from 10.2-13.9 percent. The School District of Janesville provides Title I services to the parochial school students. Dr. Cargile said the number of homeless students is increasing. The district has 60 more students identified as homeless as of January 15, 2011 over the same date last year. Presently 154 students are being home schooled.
Dr. Cargile said the district is meeting the needs of economically disadvantaged youth through counseling services, social workers, homeless liaison, graduation coaches at the high schools, youth advocates, and CLC mentoring at Edison Middle School.Student ethnicity percentages for the 2010-11 school year are as follows: American Indian .5, Asian 1.9, African American 4.6, Hispanic 10.2, Multi-Racial 4.6, and White 78.1. Dr. Cargile said the multi-racial category is a new category this year.

Report on Action Taken on 2011 Resolutions by the Delegate Assembly at the Wisconsin School Boards State Education Convention. Comm. Stottler said she was the voting delegate for the School District of Janesville. She reviewed resolutions that were passed such as no more unfunded mandates, secondary education act, parental choice, support for increased teacher licensing flexibility, sharing instructional and other student services between districts, authorize DPI to revoke a license immediately for use of pornographic materials, support for State Superintendent Evers framework for fair funding, and inclusion of salaries, benefits and lane movement be included on cast forward costing. The Delegate Assembly did turn down the resolution on limiting open enrollment in virtual charter schools.

Report on 2011 WASB State Education Convention. Comm. Stottler said she attended several finance-related breakout sessions. She learned about future instructional options from Cisco Systems. Comm. Ardrey said he attended sessions on consolidation and energy. He most enjoyed hearing Sir Ken Robinson speak on the importance of considering the education of each individual child and the need to keep the creative side of education in mind. Comm. Dommershausen said he attended a number of outstanding sessions. Comm. Hesselbacher said she attended four excellent presentations on tax levy and school finance on the day she attended. She said Dr. Zhao gave an interesting presentation. Dr. Schulte said she enjoyed hearing Dr. Zhao’s comparison of Chinese and U.S. education. She also enjoyed hearing Governor Walker speak. Comm. Sodemann attended some legislative sessions. Carol Wirth’s company used Janesville as an example of a district getting the lowest bond rate when funding the Wisconsin Retirement System obligation. He said it was good to hear that the U.S. still excels in creativity.

Announcements. Dr. Schulte mentioned the “Conversations Toward Excellence” public listening session scheduled for 5:30 p.m. tomorrow night at Adams Elementary School.

Future Board Agenda Items. Continuing budget discussions including teacher/pupil ratios.

Closed Session. Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. P. Severson, to meet in closed session at 9:41 p.m. per Wisconsin §19.85(1)(c) to consider matters previously noticed (2c. Regarding Superintendent’s evaluation (2009-10 LEM Leadership Evaluation Management Tool) and 2d. Consider approval to offer the Superintendent a two-year contract (2011-12 and 2012-13 with a one-year extension and with details to be worked out no later than February 28, 2011) at a closed session earlier in the evening. The motion carried on an 8-0 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sodemann and Stottler voting in the affirmative.

Adjournment Comm. P. Severson moved, seconded by Comm. Ardrey, to adjourn the closed session at 10:41 p.m. The motion carried on an 8-0 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sodemann and Stottler voting in the affirmative.

________________________________
Nancy M. Hewes, Assistant Board Clerk
Janesville Board of Education
 

Janesville Board of Education Meeting
Educational Services Center
January 11, 2011
6:30 p.m.

Commissioners present: Ardrey, Dommershausen, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sheridan, Sodemann and Stottler.

President Sodemann called the meeting to order which was duly noticed on January 7, 2011 through posting and notification of the press in accordance with Wisconsin §19.84.

Craig High School student Christian Paese led the Pledge of Allegiance.

Citizen Comments. Jared Beighley, 1900 Conde St., stated that at the last school board meeting on December 14, 2010 at Parker High School, he noticed and was informed that Dr. Schulte and a board member were texting or using his/her phone while some of the citizens were speaking. He felt the speaker should have the undivided attention of the board.

Student Representatives to the Board. Rachel Philipps, Craig High School representative, said 50 Craig athletes help deliver 450 bags of groceries as part of the district’s “Bags of Hope” food drive. The December 22 pep assembly was a fun event for students. The Spotlighter’s Show Choir preview night was a success. Winter sports are underway for girls and boys basketball, wrestling, gymnastics, boys swim and boys hockey. Craig counselor, Shelly Osmond, won the Martin Luther King, Jr. Service Award for her work with minority groups. Special activities have been incorporated in lesson plans to honor the work of Dr. King. On January 17 students will get course selection handbooks. Semester exams are scheduled for January 18-20. On January 26-27 freshmen, sophomores and juniors will enter their subject selections via computer.
Oren Feldman-Schultz, representing Parker High School, said the senior class will have their picture taken tomorrow. Key Club will be attending a district convention to receive leadership training. Members of the Human Relations Club, Spanish Club, Spanish National Honor Society and sociology students attended the Martin Luther King, Jr. celebration at Blackhawk Technical College. Students are preparing for semester exams and upcoming course selections. The cast for the musical “Into the Woods” has been selected and rehearsals begin tonight. DECA Club members will be competing this weekend. The American Cancer Society Relay for Life planning has begun. Parker hopes to raise more than the $26,000 they collected last year.

Consider Approval of Consent Agenda. Comm. Hesselbacher asked to have item c. removed. Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. Stottler to approve: a. Minutes of the December 14, 2010 regular board meeting; b. Receive and File Fund Summary Report. Revenues in the aggregate for December 2010 were $18,154,941and aggregate expenditures were $9,956,751; and d. Appointments. None. The motion carried on a 9-0 vote. Comm. Hesselbacher noted that between this meeting and the last board meeting, six teachers with a combined total of 207 years of teaching experience have retired. Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. Dommershausen, to approve: c. Resignations/Retirements. The teaching position resignation of Heather Bennett, effective June 10, 2011. The teaching position retirements of Penelope Barwick, Susan Main, and Dale Nobiensky, all effective June 10, 2011; and Steven Thompson, effective January 21, 2011. The motion carried on a 9-0 vote.

Authorization to Send Preliminary Notice of Non-Renewal, Administrators (directors, coordinators, principals, assistant principals), Teachers (limited term contract certified personnel), Social Workers, Occupational Therapists, and Physical Therapists (not related to performance reasons). Dr. Sperry noted the preliminary notice of non-renewal included in the board packet. He also distributed a 2011-12 Staffing Plan Timeline. Non-renewal contracts: A grade 8 social studies teacher at Franklin Middle School and a grade 8 math teacher at Marshall Middle School. Preliminary non-renewal notice: Tarah Hofer, social worker at Parker High School and Madison Elementary School; Jessica Grandt-Turke, social worker at Wilson Elementary School; Danyel McIntosh-Robb, social worker at Rock River Charter School; and Verlene Orr, social worker for the Preschool for Janesville and Early Childhood programs.
He said State Statute 118.22 sets the deadline for preliminary notice on non-renewal of teacher contracts 15 days prior to March 15 (February 28). The deadline for final notice is March 15. Dr. Sperry said the School District of Janesville’s deadline is set prior to the statutory deadline to allow staff an earlier notice to seek other employment. Dr. Sperry stressed that this is still a preliminary notice – not a final notice. Dr. Sperry requested authorization to send the preliminary notices specified.

Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. Sheridan, to approve authorization to send preliminary notice of non-renewal to a grade 8 social studies teacher at Franklin Middle School, a grade 8 math teacher at Marshall Middle School, Tarah Hofer, social worker at Parker High School and Madison Elementary School; Jessica Grandt-Turke, social worker at Wilson Elementary School; Danyel McIntosh-Robb, social worker at Rock River Charter School; and Verlene Orr, social worker for the Preschool for Janesville and Early Childhood programs.
Comm. Murray asked if this request was based on declining enrollment. Dr. Sperry said it was actually based on budget reduction measures. Comm. Hesselbacher noted that the School District of Janesville does not staff to the minimum standard for social workers, psychologists and counselors according to federal education guidelines. She said the district should have 65 employees in these three groups. The district is currently 20 staff members short. Comm. Hesselbacher stated the important duties carried out by these employees with regard to student achievement and reduced truancy. She was strongly opposed to cutting social workers due to budget constraints. Comm. Sheridan said she was in agreement with Comm. Hesselbacher, but would support the preliminary notice of non-renewal because everything is on the table with regard to budget cuts.
Comm. D. Severson asked how the district compares with other districts with regard to social workers, psychologists and counselors. Dr. Schulte said social workers are not a required position in Wisconsin. Some school districts have none, some a small number, and others more. The motion carried on an 8-1 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sheridan, Sodemann and Stottler voting in the affirmative. Comm. Hesselbacher voted in opposition.

Discussion of Salary Schedules for Non-Represented Staff. Dr. Sperry noted that Comm. Sheridan asked at the December 14, 2010 board meeting for such a schedule to be developed. Prior to that, Comm. P. Severson also felt it would be beneficial to have a salary and longevity schedule for the non-represented employees. Dr. Sperry said there are 119 employees in the non-represented group. Currently he is considering working with the other directors to create nine categories, but that may change. Board members will be provided updates as work progresses.

Discussion and Consider Approval of Parameters for Superintendent Communication Survey Rating Scale. President Sodemann explained that the board approved including the superintendent communication survey completed by board members as part of Dr. Schulte’s Leadership Evaluation Management Tool (LEM) with a weight of 5 percent. President Sodemann recommended the following composite rating scale: 4.5 and above – 5; 4.0 and above – 4; 3.5 and above – 3; 3.0 and above – 2; less than 3.0 – 1. Comm. Sodemann moved, seconded by Comm. Murray, to approve this rating scale for the board communication survey component of Dr. Schulte’s LEM. The motion carried on an 8-1 vote with Comms. Dommershausen, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sheridan, Sodemann and Stottler voting in the affirmative. Comm. Ardrey voted in opposition.

Presentation, Discussion and Consider Approval of a Proposed Increase for 2011-12 Kindergarten Enrollment Fee. Mr. Pennington said administration is requesting an increase in the kindergarten enrollment fee from $12 to $20. In years past, kindergarten was only a half-day program. It is now a full-day program. This is an issue of equity with full-day programming for grades 1-5. Mr. Pennington said this would bring in a modest increase in revenue of less than $5,500. Comm. Sheridan moved, seconded by Comm. Stottler, to approve increasing the kindergarten enrollment fee to $20 for 2011-12. Comm. D. Severson said he did not disagree with the concept, but would like to consider all of the fees at one time – parking fees, athletic fees, etc. The motion carried on a 9-0 vote.

Assessment of Copy Machine Equipment Usage. Steven Eichman, Manager of Purchasing, Transportation and Custodial, presented an overview or the district’s photocopier usage. A total of $120,000 was budgeted for 2009-10 for the purchase of high volume copy machines. Each location is responsible for the purchase, maintenance, supply and repair costs of low volume copy machines. The district currently has 115 copiers. Approximately 4,445 cases of paper were used in 2009-10 (2,167 copies/student). Copy machine and related maintenance costs for 2009-10 were $158,600 and paper costs were $129,000 ($28.05/student), not counting supply costs.
Steps that are being taken to reduce costs are: working with vendors to ensure all invoicing is timely and accurate; reducing the overall number of copies made; shifting volume from a higher cost per copy machine to a lower cost per copy machine; check each location’s copier maintenance plan to ensure that each agreement is the best one for that location; replace machines with more technologically advanced copiers with fewer rarely used options; continue to purchase copiers in “bulk” to achieve economies of scale and uniformity of machines; partner with other groups for competitive bidding; consider leasing versus purchasing; order supplies on an as needed basis; replace copy machines sooner than the current replacement schedule if funding permits; and replace current copiers with multi-function products that can photocopy,  fax scan, print and e-mail. Mr. Eichman said the implementation of these potential savings options and a review of all current maintenance agreements are scheduled to be completed by June 30, 2011.
Comm. P. Severson asked the district has worked with any of the purchasing consortiums. Mr. Eichman said yes. He said there are many others available than just the three he mentioned. Comm. Stottler asked if there is a district-wide policy on copy machine usage. Mr. Eichman said no, but explained some alternatives. She asked how the district was going to change the culture. Dr. Sperry said there have been discussions with principals about this for the past several years. He said each building is monitoring copier use because this comes out of their building supply budget. Mr. Pennington noted that copiers are paid for by each individual building.

Review of Revised Administrative Regulation 5122.1, Admission of Students Participating in Public School Choice. Dr. Sperry thanked Tami Carlson, Administrative Service Secretary, and Nancy Hewes, Assistant Board Clerk, for their help with board policies and administrative regulations. Dr. Sperry said the district was informed of changes in state statute regarding public school choice through 2009 Wisconsin Act 304. Dr. Sperry reviewed the major changes to the administrative regulation. He said these changes were suggested to bring the regulation up to date and in compliance with state statutes. No other changes were suggested by the board.

Announcements. Comm. Dommershausen noted that the board will hold its first Conversations Toward Excellence at 5:30 on January 26 at Adams Elementary School. A goal of these listening sessions is to provide additional access in a more informal setting to citizens.
Comm. Hesselbacher said a benefit concert to raise money for a transitional living shelter for unaccompanied youth in Rock County is scheduled for January 29 from 4 p.m. to midnight at the Marine Corps League.
Dr. Schulte said she is visiting the charter school boards and talking with them about the possibility of moving back into the schools. The costs of doing this must also be taken into consideration. She said there is also the possibility of the charter schools raising funds to cover their own rent. She also noted that board members use their telephones for things than texting during the board meetings.
Comm. P. Severson asked for a final report on the “Bags of Hope” district food drive. Ms. Miller said about $41,000 was raised. This money was used to provide groceries to 450 families, including 60 senior citizens. This was an increase from the 360 families served last year.

Future Board Agenda Items. Comm. Murray asked for a presentation on all fees charged at the January 25 board meeting. He also asked to have budget updates on each future board agenda.

Closed Session. Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. Ardrey, to meet in closed session at 7:45 p.m. to consider matters previously discussed at a closed session earlier in the evening per §19.85(1)(c) and (e) to update the Board regarding the status of contract negotiations and consider possible approval of items presented with regard to the AFSCME Local 938 Custodial/Maintenance/Food Service Unit 2009-2011 Labor Agreement; and §19.85(1)(c) evaluation (2009-10 LEM Leadership Evaluation Management Tool), contract renewal and compensation of the Superintendent.

Adjournment. Comm. D. Severson moved, seconded by Comm. P. Severson, to adjourn at 9:55 p.m. The motion carried on a 9-0 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sheridan, Sodemann and Stottler voting in the affirmative.

_________________________________
Nancy M. Hewes, Assistant Board Clerk
Janesville Board of Education
 

December 2010

Janesville Board of Education Meeting
Parker High School
December 14, 2010
6:30 p.m.

Commissioners present: Ardrey, Dommershausen, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sheridan, Sodemann and Stottler.

President Sodemann called the meeting to order which was duly noticed on December 10, 2010 through posting and notification of the press in accordance with Wisconsin §19.84.

Lincoln Elementary School students Camryn Rosga, Lauren Zhe, Brandon Southers and Nathan Warda led the Pledge of Allegiance.

Citizen Comments. Ira Klusendorf, 1011 Nantucket Dr., said his family moved to Janesville from Illinois because of the excellent school system. His granddaughter has taken three years of a foreign language. If the board cuts classes, she may not be able to take the fourth year course and would not get the four years of foreign language honors credits she needs for college admission. Mr. Klusendorf asked the board to find the money to save these types of classes.
Sarah Baughman, 130 Falling Creek Circle, said she will be graduating in January. She commented that the Parker student parking did not get salted after the recent snowstorm. She said students fall every day. She also said the parking lot was not plowed very well.
Linda Miller, 329 Forest Park Blvd., a German teacher at Craig High School, asked the board to consider the ramifications of eliminating classes smaller than 24 students at the high schools. She noted that there are many sequential courses that are taken by students wanting to earn college credit for completing four years of a world language. Eliminating upper level courses will also decrease students’ chances for honors credit on their transcripts. Ms. Miller stated that many students who have taken German and French have gone on to pursue careers using their foreign language knowledge. She asked the board to put the needs of all students first.
Heidi Haerterich, 2019 Burbank Ave., said she is a Parker senior and was afraid that the district would cut German as a course offering. She said she will be studying in Germany after first semester. Heidi said she has spoken to the board previously about this, but felt like she and her concern were being pushed aside.

Robert Cooney, 919 Alpine Dr., asked the board, when considering next year’s budget, that they not base their decision on money alone. He talked about the value of upper level German courses and how students would be hurt by cutting them. Fourth and fifth year German, French and Spanish are honors courses. If not offered, this could greatly impact the amount of college credits a student could earn retroactively. Mr. Cooney said having only two or three years of a foreign language is unacceptable.
Eric Cooney, 919 Alpine Dr., said he is a 2009 graduate currently attending St. Louis University. Eric said he took five years of German in high school and thought it will help him in pursuing a career in medicine.
Ed Reich, 1240 Boynton Ct., said he has been teaching in Mexico and felt learning a foreign language is necessary. Mr. Reich referenced an article he distributed which talked about the relationship between fatty acids and the health and size of newborns.

Scott Lipker, 4019 Mullen Dr., said he is concerned about his two high school students being able to get the classes they need to apply and get into colleges of their choice. He said most colleges require four years of a foreign language.

Jack Hoag, 4155 Eastridge Dr., said he had several concerns. One concern was that the board has not taxed to the maximum allowable limit for the past several years. He said this was costing the district in state aid and in operational budget shortfalls. Mr. Hoag felt some of the cuts the board has already made were made in a rash manner and do not have a very big impact on the overall budget shortfall. He said he is also a big advocate of sports and extracurricular activities. Values that can be learned from participation in these activities are important and can carry over to the classroom and other aspects of life. Mr. Hoag said he is not proposing that athletic fees be raised, but is also not opposed to raising athletic fees. He felt the fees should not be dumped back into the general fund; they should go back to each specific sport.
Wyatt Tinder, 3727 Randolph Rd., said he is a Craig junior who is taking art courses in preparation for college and a career in that field. He is concerned about the possibility of eliminating low enrollment courses.

Jaimi Jenson, 1816 S. Walnut St., said she and her friends at Parker are very happy with the classes that are currently offered. She is scared that opportunities will be eliminated for younger students. She asked the board to think about the well being of all students and not just look at the dollars when making budget cuts.

Rachel Bennett, 2115 S. Terrace St., said she has been part of the German program for 25 years. She said she uses her knowledge of German every day. She felt it would be a great mistake to lose the German program. She asked the board to keep programs to give students a chance to finish what they have started.

Jared Beighley, 1900 Conde St., said he was concerned about the possibility of AP chemistry or AP physics classes being eliminated due to small class sizes. He plans to major in physics in college. He said it would cost him over $300 to take AP chemistry at college, but only $87 to take the AP test while in high school.

Jaleh Dabiri, 534 Cornelia St., said the school district is what attracted her to relocate with her family in Janesville. She said foreign languages and athletics are important as well as science and math. Colleges are looking for well-rounded students.

Board Recognition. Ann Forbeck, social worker and homeless liaison, recognized community donors who have contributed to the homeless program and the Tokens for Youth program. She recognized the following: Karen Larson represented Baker Tilly who provided two homeless teenagers with holiday gifts; members of the Certified Public Managers class represented by Rebecca Houseman, Dave Lou and Lori Stottler who collected 1,010 cold weather clothing items, 64 backpacks, 132 paper products, and 2,018 personal hygiene items and donated them to the Janesville and Beloit homeless education programs. Other donors were: Mr. and Mrs. Charles Titus, St. John’s Lutheran Church is now collecting snow pants and snow boots, and Cargill United Methodist Church is providing holiday gift cards from local merchants. Mercy Health Mall, Cargill United Methodist Church, Dr. Pelsue, St. Peter’s Lutheran Church and the Tuesday Morning and Thursday Noon Optimist groups have provided bus Tokens for Teens. President Sodemann presented certificates of Outstanding Achievement to those representatives present.

Student Representatives to the Board. Jaimi Jenson, representative of Parker High School, said students will be celebrating winter week with various activities and a dance. The musical “Happy Days” was a very successful production. The Student Leadership Council (SLC) will be sponsoring the Relay for Life for the American Cancer Society on April 8-9. The Parker Closet is sponsoring the “Big Give” for over 100 classmates who are in need of some extra help. An SLC leadership scholarship is being developed. They are also giving thought to ways to improve the school culture and promote the Viking Values through open discussion. Spanish students are participating in a piñata contest. The piñatas will be donated to the Hedberg Public Library for use with a special event. A very successful multicultural fair was recently held. The Debate Team took second place in state competition.
Rachel Philipps, Craig High School representative, said parent/teacher conferences were successful with 61% of freshmen and 53% of sophomore parents attending. Winter sports have started and students are doing well. Students sponsored a fund drive and raised $3,171 for the district’s “Bags of Hope” food drive. Craig students will also be helping on Saturday with the food drive packing and delivery. A winter choir concert will be presented tomorrow evening. A winter pep assembly is scheduled for December 22. The show choir concert will be held on January 6. January 8 is the Martin Luther King, Jr. public celebration at Blackhawk Technical College. Semester exams will be held January 18-20.

Consider Approval of Consent Agenda. Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. Stottler to approve: a. Minutes of the November 23, 2010 regular board meeting; b. Receive and File Fund Summary Report. Revenues in the aggregate for November 2010 were $19,196,486 and aggregate expenditures were $25,898,523. c. Resignations/Retirements. The administrative position resignations of Richard Lehman and Jay Pica, both effective June 23, 2011; the administrative position retirement of Marlene Novota, effective June 23, 2011 and the teacher position retirement of Ronald Shuler, effective January 21, 2011. d. Appointments. None. e. Approve application for Safe and Supportive Schools Project grant up to $100,000 per year for three years. The motion carried on a 9-0 vote.

Discussion and Consider Approval to Eliminate the Director of Student Services Position and the Secretary to the Director of Student Services Position Beginning with the 2011-12 School Year. Dr. Schulte said this item was postponed from the November 23 board meeting. Dr. Schulte said she is still requesting elimination of the Director of Student Services position as well as the related secretarial position beginning with the 2011-12 school year. Comm. Stottler moved, seconded by Comm. Murray, to approve the elimination the Director of Student Services position beginning with the 2011-12 school year. Comm. Stottler said she would like to postpone a decision on the secretarial position until ESC staffing has been reviewed. In response to Comm. D. Severson, Dr. Schulte said the secretarial position was tied to the Director position, but was not under the same state statute deadline timeframe as the Director position. If the secretarial position is eliminated at some point in the future, the person holding that position would be entitled to bumping rights according to the union contract. The motion carried on a 9-0 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sheridan, Sodemann and Stottler voting in the affirmative.

Personnel Committee Report. 1. Discussion and Consider Approval Beginning with the 2011-12 School Year for a Director of Special Education Position with a Two-Year Contract. Dr. Schulte said this item had also been postponed from the November 23 board meeting. She is requesting approval of a Director of Special Education position with a two-year contract beginning with the 2011-12 school year. Comm. Sheridan said the Personnel Committee had a lengthy discussion on December 6, 2010. The committee’s decision was to bring Dr. Schulte’s request for a Director of Special Education position to the full board for discussion and action. Comm. Sheridan moved, seconded by Comm. Hesselbacher, to approve, beginning with the 2011-12 school year, a Director of Special Education position with a two-year contract.

Comm. Stottler commented about the disparity in salary of the proposed Director of Special Education and the three current directors. However, she did not think with the current budget restraints that the board could afford to boost the compensation for this position to match that of the other directors. Because the duties of the position have increased, she did not think it was fair to have the position revert back to a coordinator level either. Comm. Stottler moved, seconded by Comm. Ardrey, to amend the motion to read approve the creation of an Assistant Director of Special Education position at the current salary of $112,707 beginning with the 2011-12 school year with a two-year contract.
Comm. D. Severson said he was having a hard time increasing the district administrative staff from four directors to five directors and yet having to make 50-70 teaching position cuts and program cuts that have a direct impact on students. Comm. Sheridan said she brought the original motion because she is the chair of the Personnel Committee. She felt Comm. Stottler’s amendment was a great compromise. She reminded board members that 18 months ago the district had a director and two coordinator positions. If the same solution is sought to the Director of At-Risk and Multicultural Services, the district will wind up with two positions instead of three. Comm. Stottler noted other administrative cuts that have taken place: the elimination of the Manager of Buildings and Grounds, a curriculum coordinator, the district athletic director position, processing center technician, a curriculum aide and a library/media cataloger. These position cuts totaled approximately $500,000. Comm. Murray felt the board was getting ahead of itself by speculating how many employees may have to be laid off.

Comm. Sheridan moved, seconded by Comm. Sodemann, to amend the motion to stipulate that federal entitlement funds, not local dollars, be used to fund the position of Assistant Director of Special Education beginning with the 2011-12 school year. The motion failed on a 2-7 vote with Comms. Dommershausen and Sheridan voting in the affirmative. Comms. Ardrey, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sodemann and Stottler voting in opposition.

The pending amendment to approve the creation of an Assistant Director of Special Education position at the current salary of $112,707 beginning with the 2011-12 school year with a two-year contract carried on an 8-1 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Hesselbacher, Murray, P. Severson, Sheridan, Sodemann and Stottler voting in the affirmative. Comm. D. Severson voted in opposition.
The motion, as amended, to approve the creation of an Assistant Director of Special Education position at the current salary of $112,707 beginning with the 2011-12 school year with a two-year contract carried on a 7-2 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Hesselbacher, Murray, P. Severson, Sheridan and Stottler voting in the affirmative. Comms. D. Severson and Sodemann voted in opposition.

a. If Board Approves a Director of Special Education Position with a Two-Year Contract, Discuss and Consider Authorization to Offer the Position to Barbara Hilliker. Not applicable.
b. If Board Does Not Approve a Director of Special Education Position, Discuss and Consider Approval of a Newly Created Special Education Coordinator Position with a Two-Year Contract. Not applicable.

c. Discuss and Consider Authorization to Offer the Special Education Coordinator Position with a Two-Year Contract to Barbara Hilliker. As previously amended and approved, the position title is now Assistant Director of Special Education with a two-year contract. Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. P. Severson, to authorize offering the position of Assistant Director of Special Education with a two-year contract to Barbara Hilliker. The motion carried on a 9-0 vote.

2. Discussion and Consider Approval Beginning with the 2011-12 School Year for a Director of At-Risk and Multicultural Services Position with a Two-Year Contract. Comm. Stottler moved, seconded by Comm. Murray, to approve the creation of an Assistant Director of At-Risk and Multicultural Services position at the current salary of $111,066 beginning with the 2011-12 school year with a two-year contract. The motion carried on a 7-2 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Hesselbacher, Murray, P. Severson, Sheridan and Stottler voting in the affirmative. Comms. D. Severson and Sodemann voted in opposition.

a. If Board Approves a Director of At-Risk and Multicultural Services Position with a Two-Year Contract, Discuss and Consider Authorization to Offer the Director Position to Dr. Yolanda Cargile. Not applicable.

b. If Board Does Not Approve a Director of At-Risk and Multicultural Services Position, Discuss and Consider Approval of a Newly Created At-Risk and Multicultural Services Coordinator Position with a Two-Year Contract. Not applicable.

c. Discuss and Consider Authorization to Offer the At-Risk and Multicultural Services Coordinator Position with a Two-Year Contract to Dr. Yolanda Cargile. As previously approved, the position title is now Assistant Director of At-Risk and Multicultural Services with a two-year contract. Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. P. Severson, to authorize offering the position of Assistant Director of At-Risk and Multicultural Services with a two-year contract to Yolanda Cargile. The motion carried on a 9-0 vote.

Review of 2011 WASB Delegate Assembly Proposed Resolutions and Consider Approval to Provide Direction to Voting Delegate Stottler. President Sodemann noted that the proposal submitted by the board regarding students receiving physical education credit for participation in

WIAA sanctioned sports did not make it to the Delegate Assembly level. Comm. D. Severson asked if any WASB resolutions in the past five to ten years have ever been advanced and passed into law by the state legislature. He also asked what the annual dues was for the district to belong to WASB. Comm. Murray said it was $10,687. Comm. D. Severson said because other departments are being asked to cut their budgets, he would ask that the board seriously consider cutting this expense. Comm. Stottler told of the value of attending the state education convention and talking with other districts and vendors at the WASB convention. She also mentioned policy review service and informational publications. She thought the district received great value for the dues. Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. Sheridan, to send voting delegate Stottler unencumbered to the WASB Delegate Assembly. President Sodemann expressed concern regarding the resolutions on transportation of private school pupils outside district boundaries and the one on limiting open enrollment to three percent of the resident district membership. The motion carried on a 9-0 vote.

Discussion and Consider Approval of Revisions/Modifications to Superintendent’s 2010-11 LEM (Leadership Management Tool). President Sodemann explained that Dr. Schulte’s LEM does not contain any reference to the board only survey. Mr. Studer’s advice was to include this evaluation tool in Dr. Schulte’s LEM. President Sodemann suggested weighting the board survey at 10 percent to match both the parent and the staff satisfaction surveys, and reducing the WKCE reading score and math score to 15 percent each. Another suggesting was to weight the board survey at 5 percent and reduce the finance annual operating expenses pillar or the open enrollment growth goal from 10 percent to 5 percent. Comm. Sodemann moved, seconded by Comm. Murray , to add the board survey to Dr. Schulte’s 2010-11 LEM with a weight of 10 percent and reduce the WKCE reading and math scores from 20 percent to 15 percent each. Comm. Ardrey felt how the Superintendent interacted with the board is more of a qualitative measurement and is separate from the quantitative measurements. Dr. Schulte said she would prefer that the WKCE reading and math scores remain weighted at 20 percent each because her LEM cascades down to the directors and principals and their goals. Comm. Sodemann offered a friendly amendment, seconded by Comm. Murray, to weight the board survey at 5 percent and reduce the annual operating expense finance goal from a weight of 10 percent to 5 percent. The consensus of the board was to accept this friendly amendment.

Comm. P. Severson moved, seconded by Comm. Sheridan, to amend the motion by adding the board survey with a weight of 5 percent, maintaining the finance annual operating expense goal at a weight of 10 percent, and reducing the open enrollment goal from a weight of 10 percent to 5 percent. The motion carried on a 5-3-1 vote with Comms. Hesselbacher, Murray, P. Severson, Sheridan and Sodemann voting in the affirmative. Comms. Ardrey, D. Severson and Stottler voted in opposition. Comm. Dommershausen abstained.

President Sodemann said he would develop the rating breakdowns for the board survey and bring it to the next board meeting for consideration and approval.
The pending motion as amended is modify the Superintendent’s 2010-11 LEM by adding the board survey with a weight of 5 percent, maintaining the finance annual operating expense goal at a weight of 10 percent, and reducing the open enrollment goal from a weight of 10 percent to 5 percent. The motion carried on a 6-3 vote with Comms. Dommershausen, Hesselbacher, Murray, P. Severson, Sheridan and Sodemann voting in the affirmative. Comms. Ardrey, D. Severson and Stottler voted in opposition.
The board recessed from 8:35 p.m. to 8:40 p.m.

Update on 2011-12 Budget Process. Mr. Pennington noted that the board just passed the 2010-11 budget at the October 26, 2010 board meeting and work has already begun on the 2011-12 budget process. Mr. Pennington reviewed the two main sources of revenue ($4.1 million) that are in the current 2010-11 budget that will not be in the 2011-12 budget such as the Jobs Education funding for $1.8 million that was used to help pay for the salary increase to teachers; and the use of $2.3 million from the fund balance to balance the 2010-11 operating budget. Additional expenses that will be incurred in the 2011-12 budget include $3.1 million in increases in salary and benefits for all employees similar to the JEA contract. However, two AFSCME unions have yet to settle contracts. This includes over of $1 million in step and lane movement for the JEA and $530,000 in state-mandated increases in the Wisconsin Retirement System contribution. A 15 percent increases in health insurance costs is estimated at $2.6 million. Therefore, the total shortfall for the 2011-12 budget is estimated to be $9.8 million.
Mr. Pennington noted that if the board chose to tax to the maximum allowable amount, that would increase revenue by $4.4 million. This would result in an increase in local property taxes of $114 per year on a home valued at $114,000. The district is not anticipating any increase in equalized state tax funding. The district did not increase the IT, maintenance or textbook budgets which were cut by over $2.5 million last year.

The next steps include discussions regarding reductions that need to be made in connection with high school course selection and potential reductions at all other levels and areas. Comm. Stottler wanted to be sure the public understood the difference between actual cuts and enrollment-driven reductions. She was very concerned with the low level of the IT and textbook budgets as a result of the cuts made in the 2010-11 budget. Comm. Stottler asked how low the Fund 10 balance can go before the district would need to look at short-term borrowing.

Discussion and Consider Approval of Proposed 2011-12 Budget Development Calendar. Mr. Pennington said a combined budget and staffing plan development calendar was included in the board materials. He said the staffing timeline is statute driven. There is a little more flexibility in the budget calendar. Comm. D. Severson asked for consideration of holding another board meeting prior to the January 11 regularly scheduled board meeting if administration is considering issuing preliminary non-renewal notices. Comm. Murray felt the board needed to notify anyone who might be affected with the loss of their job or layoff as soon as possible so they can pursue other employment. President Sodemann asked for the legal staffing deadlines.

Discussion of Preliminary 2011-12 Board of Education Goals. President Sodemann asked if board members anticipated making any major changes in board goals for 2011-12. He wondered if the board might suggest raising the math and reading another percentage point or consider further reductions in energy usage. Comm. Stottler said she would like to see an increase in virtual school enrollment under the growth pillar. She also would like the health and safety accident reduction goal include students. Comm. Hesselbacher suggested looking at such things as graduation rate, how many students go on to post-secondary education, and other related indicators of student achievement other than just the WKCE scores. Dr. Schulte said WKCE scores are used as a means of comparison between school districts in Wisconsin.

Discussion and Consider Approval to Change Administrative Regulation 4221.1, High School Scheduling and Staffing Guidelines, with Regard to Class Size. Dr. Ehrhardt said administration has tried to balance a quality, comprehensive high school program with the district’s financial realities. He requested that the board approve raising the minimum required enrollment for a high school course section from 18 to 24. He felt this would maintain parity with the number of students per section at the middle and upper elementary school levels. Dr. Ehrhardt stressed that principals will still have the opportunity to recommend exemptions for specific courses. He said administration will be taking a hard look at combined and site specific courses. They may also look at offering some courses on an every other year basis. Comm. Sheridan asked if administration was looking at the possibility of using the virtual classes to fill in some of the gaps. Dr. Ehrhardt said that would be a consideration. Comm. Stottler asked how they arrived at the 24 number. Dr. Ehrhardt said it was to maintain parity with middle and upper elementary staffing. He felt other school districts were moving in this same direction. He said most of the high school classrooms were designed to accommodate 25 students. Comm. D. Severson thought the board needed to look at making the tough cuts and layoffs as early as possible as suggested by Comm. Murray. Comm. Murray thought principals knew what was best for their own school and they should be the ones making the decisions on exemptions, cancellations, combined and site specific courses. He suggested that the principals find out how many students sign up for each course and then have the board direct the principals as to how much money they have to cut. He felt this would engage the staff students and parents in decisions. Comm. D. Severson asked how many classes currently have less than 24 students. Dr. Sperry said there are currently about 55 classes that are exempt from minimum enrollment guidelines. Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. P. Severson, to change Administrative Regulation 4221.1, High School Scheduling and Staffing Guidelines, as presented. The motion carried on a 9-0 vote.

Information and Discussion of Changes to High School Course Handbooks. Dr. Ehrhardt said the change in the minimum required enrollment for course sections will be noted in the course selection handbooks and relayed to students and parents.

Boundary Lines Committee Update. Chairperson Ardrey said the Boundary Lines Committee has not met for several months. The City of Janesville has allowed the school district use some of their specialized mapping software to do an enrollment analysis. He said the committee will meet to review this data. Chairperson Ardrey said he has personally visited 8 of the 12 elementary buildings to evaluate their use of space from last year to this year. He will recommend some changes to the committee. Chairperson Ardrey stated that from the enrollment data, research he has done, and what he has learned from other districts facing school closings, it does not appear to be prudent to “mothball” a school. He said the district would save only about 30 percent of the overall cost and must still cover 70 percent of the maintenance and operational costs. He felt the focus should be on looking at a reallocation of some of the space for possible use by the charter schools. Chairperson Ardrey hoped to finish his school visits prior to winter break. A committee meeting will be scheduled in January to review the results. He hoped to bring a recommendation to the board in February. He did not feel the board would be able to act on any of this until the 2012-13 school year. He noted that one of the goals of the committee was to adjust boundary lines to balance out middle school enrollments. There are approximately 500 students at Franklin Middle School; 700 at Edison; and 900 at Marshall. Comm. Murray commented that the district is currently spending about $250,000 a year on rent for the charter schools. President Sodemann asked that the board be notified prior to the district renewing any of the charter school leases.

Update on Noise Reduction Sound Barrier at Craig High School. Mr. Pennington referenced the memo included in the board packet. He said administration has been moving forward and considering options. A request for proposals has been drafted and will be distributed to 10-12 known vendors. An ad will also be run in The Janesville Gazette. Mr. Pennington said the goal is to get some type of sound barrier installed before the chiller unit has to be turned on in the spring. Comm. P. Severson asked if the architects had been contacted to see if they were willing to contribute to the mitigation of this problem. Mr. Pennington said not yet; they wanted to get the proposals back first.

Discussion and Consider Approval of an Additional Board Member to the Excellence in Education Foundation Board – Elle Siegert. Dr. Schulte said she was asking for approval to add Elle Siegert to the Excellence in Education Foundation board. She is currently a financial advisor for M&I Bank and graduated from UW-Whitewater in 2002. Comm. Sheridan moved, seconded by Comm. Murray, to approve the addition of Elle Siegert to the Excellence in Education Foundation board. Comm. P. Severson asked how individuals are sought to serve on the foundation board. Dr. Schulte said the board looks for people who have expertise in various areas such as accounting, medicine, banking, etc. The Excellence in Education board members have suggested individuals. Comm. P. Severson felt a better process might be to publicize these positions to attract a bigger pool of candidates. Dr. Schulte said she could bring that suggestion to the president of the Foundation board. The motion carried on a 9-0 vote.

Announcements. Comm. Murray mentioned that the board members would help serve dinner to Wilson Elementary students and their families on December 16 at 6:00 p.m. The district’s food drive packaging and delivery will take place starting at 6 a.m. on December 18 at 505 S. Wuthering Hills Dr. Comm. Stottler asked for an update on candidates for the Spring Election. Ms. Hewes reported that incumbent Kevin Murray was the only person to date to have filed a Declaration of Candidacy. President Sodemann gave kudos to those individuals who worked on the Messiah concert at the Janesville Performing Arts Center on December 12. Orchestra students from Craig and Parker were involved in the performance.

Future Board Agenda Items. Comm. Sheridan said she would like administration to consider developing salary schedules for any employees who are not currently on such a schedule. There was board consensus on this request.

Administration will let the board and media know of any board meetings to be scheduled in December 2010.

Adjournment. Comm. Stottler moved, seconded by Comm. Dommershausen, to adjourn at 10:03 p.m. The motion carried on a 9-0 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sheridan, Sodemann and Stottler voting in the affirmative.

_________________________________
Nancy M. Hewes, Assistant Board Clerk
Janesville Board of Education
 

November 2010 

Janesville Board of Education Meeting
Educational Services Center
November 23, 2010
6:30 p.m.

Commissioners present: Ardrey, Dommershausen, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sheridan, Sodemann and Stottler.

President Sodemann called the regular meeting to order which was duly noticed on November 19, 2010 through posting and notification of the press in accordance with Wisconsin §19.84.

Cerena Cass, Sarah Hoff and Spencer Orley, Jackson Elementary School students led the Pledge of Allegiance.

Student Representatives to the Board. Amanda Honeysett, representing the Rock River Charter School, said she has been in the alternative education program for the past two years. She enjoys the teen leadership class which helps students become leaders in school and in the community. Students also participate in community service projects twice a month. There are five programs available at Rock River Charter School to meet the different needs of students – alternative education, school age parent at risk (SAPAR), e-learning, general education diploma (GED) Option $2, and the community learning program. The community learning program prepares students to enter the GED Option #2 class. Amanda said her grades and attendance have improved dramatically and she is on schedule to graduate.
Sarah Carlson, representing Tailoring Academics to Guide Our Students Leadership Academy (TAGOS), said she is a senior. TAGOS, with 72 students this year, is a project-based charter school in its fourth year of operation. Sarah said she had previously attended Craig High School until she had to miss a lot of school because of health-related issues. She said TAGOS is her safe haven. She hopes to attend UW-Rock County and then transfer to UW-Oshkosh to be a nurse. Sarah said TAGOS has taught her how to study for standardized tests in order to do well. She said TAGOS is a place for students who want to get their education, are passionate about their learning, self-motivated, responsible, want to graduate and make a difference. She thanked the board for allowing another option for students to get their education.

President Sodemann announced that agenda items 8, 9 and 10 would be addressed after the consent agenda to accommodate the large number of visitors present at the board meeting.

Citizen Comments. Helen Close, 227 Ba-Wood Lane, talked about her leadership in providing all third grade public school students with dictionaries over the years. This will be extended to parochial school third grade students. The project is funded by books written by members of the Janesville Senior Center and sold to the public.
Jacklyn Kumlien, 227 Mohawk Road, said she was a freshman at Craig High School who was speaking in support of Monte Phillips, Assistant Principal and Athletic Director at Craig. Jacklyn said she counted on Mr. Phillips being available full-time at Craig to help her. She was not in favor of the proposal to cut one assistant principal position at Parker and split Mr. Phillips’ duties between the two high schools. She thought the board only cared about naughty students.  If passed, she felt the board was making bad choices that hurt good kids and was making her city bad. She felt the board was taking things away from good kids.
Nichole Kumlien, 227 Mohawk Road, said she was Jacklyn’s mother. She asked why the school board was choosing to eliminate the assistant principal position at Parker. She said her children have made a good connection with Mr. Phillips at Craig and count on him. She thought he would not have as much time to spend with students if his duties were split between the two high schools. Ms. Kumlien felt the board should consolidate the charter schools into existing buildings to save money on rent, utilities and extra staff time. She said if the board does not service parents, who are the consumers, they will take their children, taxes and resources elsewhere for their education.
Brandie Farrell, 4329 Saratoga Drive, said she is a sophomore at Craig and wanted to address concerns regarding budget cuts. She said she understood the tough position the board was facing with regard to budget cuts. She talked about having Mr. Phillips serve as assistant principal and athletic director at both high schools. Brandie told of how amazing Mr. Phillips is at serving the needs of many students at Craig. She also talked about the impact on student safety with the reduction of an assistant principal. She asked the board if this decision was really worth it. She asked the board to weigh their decision carefully.

Consider Approval of Consent Agenda. Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. Sheridan, to: a. approve and place on file the minutes of the November 9, 2010 regular board meeting; b. Resignations/Retirements. The administrative position retirement of Steven Schroeder, Principal of Parker High School, effective June 30, 2011. c. Appointments. None; c. Commendations. The motion carried on a 9-0 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sheridan, Sodemann and Stottler voting in the affirmative.

Discussion and Consider Approval to Eliminate a High School Administrative Position (Assistant Principal). Dr. Sperry stated that the School District of Janesville is charged with the task of reducing the 2011-12 budget by approximately $6 million. Administration is trying to stay away from program reductions. He noted that enrollment at the high schools has decreased by 11% over the past seven years. Because of these factors, the board is being asked to approve the elimination of one high school assistant principal position. Dr. Sperry explained how this decision was reached. He said the hiring process takes into account the individual’s knowledge of the position, experience, current duties and responsibilities. Seniority is not a factor in hiring for administrative positions. Dr. Sperry thanked the speakers for sharing their thoughts and opinions. He said this change will be discussed thoroughly with all of the stakeholders. This change will be monitored carefully over the next year. Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. Sheridan, to approve the elimination of a high school administrative position (assistant principal). In response to the student’s comments, Comm. Stottler said she thought the board cares about and tries to serve the needs of all students. She said this was just the first of many tough decisions that will need to be made. President Sodemann felt Mr. Phillips would do a good job at each high school. He said at times the board needs to rely on the advice and recommendation of administration. He said this was a difficult decision. The motion carried

Board of Education -3- November 23, 2010

on a 9-0 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sheridan, Sodemann and Stottler voting in the affirmative.

Discussion and Consider Approval to Create a High School Administrative Position Which Will Include Assistant Principal and High School Athletic Director Responsibilities. Dr. Sperry said the goal of administration is to keep cuts away from the classroom. He said athletic participation continues to be maintained even with the declining high school enrollment. Administration feels it is essential to have an individual responsible for carrying out the operations of high school athletics and administrating extra-curricular activities. Comm. Stottler moved, seconded by Comm. Murray, to create a high school administrative position which will include assistant principal and high school athletic director responsibilities. Comm. Hesselbacher felt the board would be asking a lot of Mr. Phillips to serve as assistant principal as well as athletic director for both high schools. Comm. Sheridan asked about secretarial help for athletic directors. Dr. Schulte said there is a secretary to the assistant principal/athletic director at each high school as well as a district athletic program secretary at the Educational Services Center. She said they were reviewing those positions to see whether or not hours would need to be added. The motion carried on a 9-0 vote.

Discussion and Consider Authorization to Offer Monte Phillips a High School Administrative Position Which Will Include Assistant Principal and High School Athletic Director Responsibilities. Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. D. Severson, to offer Monte Phillips a high school administrative position which will include assistant principal and high school athletic director responsibilities. Dr. Sperry said administration is highly recommending Mr. Phillips because he has experience as assistant principal and athletic director at Craig. He also has prior experience as athletic director at the district level. Comm. P. Severson asked about salary considerations. Dr. Sperry said they are recommending the current salary. Comm. Stottler noted that this represented a savings of approximately $125,000. The motion carried on a 9-0 vote.

Presentation of School District Financial Statements (Audit Reports), Smith & Gesteland. Keith Pennington, Chief Financial Officer, said the annual external audit verifies the district’s financial strength and validates the accuracy of the books. He introduced Keith Baumgartner and John
Folsom of Smith & Gesteland. Mr. Baumgartner said the audit report provides a picture of the financial status of the district as of June 30, 2010. The auditors rendered a clean opinion – which is the highest level of assurance they can provide. He called attention to the two-page letter from the auditors. There have been no accounting changes and no disagreements on accounting or audit principals. There were no material weaknesses or significant deficiencies.
Mr. Folsom explained that there are two types of financial reporting for school districts. There is the district-wide presentation similar to a for-profit company which shows the long-term assets and liabilities. The other type is the single audit fund accounting financial statements. The fund accounting statements are the ones used by DPI and the district for setting the budget. The district received American Recovery and Reinvestment Act funding, $14 million of federal aid and $72 million of state aide. Both types of presentations are required by general accounting standards. Under the district-wide accounting method, the overall net assets of the district decreased by $500,000 last year. Under the fund accounting method, the fund balance decreased by $3.5 million which was attributable to the remaining cost of the additions/renovation of the two high schools. Under GASB 45, the other post-employment benefit liability must be accounted for in the financial statements. The amount actually paid must be compared to the annual required contribution. Any shortfall must be shown as a liability on the financial statement.
Mr. Pennington said he appreciated working with an experienced, professional audit staff.

What’s Right in Education/Dashboard. Dr. Schulte highlighted positive comments regarding Steve Schlomann, Manager of Information Systems and his staff for their help. The English Language Learner program under the leadership of Julie DeCook has met or exceeded accountability measures. The target was 5% but 31% met the goal. Harrison had good data regarding the progress of kindergarten students. Dr. Schulte said the district is moving toward having very clear, definitive results as to how students are doing. Craig and Parker high schools listed a number of positive activities. Students from both high schools helped at the polling places with the November election.
Report on School Improvement for First Quarter. Kim Ehrhardt, Director of Instructional Services, said this was a status update on teaching, learning, curriculum, assessment and instruction. Goals and expectations were set to raise WKCE reading scores from 82 to 84 by the end of the 2010-11 school year. Math scores are expected to go from78 to 80. This year the goals for Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP) are set at 80.5 for reading and 68.5 for math. The overall goal is to have all students achieving in the proficient and advanced categories by 2013-14. Dr. Ehrhardt said a common plan was developed for K-12 to look at data to see what is working and where and what problems are being encountered. He said building schedules were re-worked to allocate more time for reading, writing and math. Detailed School Improvement Plans (SIP) were developed to serve as a blueprint for student learning. It is a work in progress and is to be reviewed and updated quarterly. Curriculum Based Assessments (CBA) are a way of measuring student progress toward target goals.
Scott Garner, Principal of Washington Elementary School, said they started last spring looking at pacing data in math for students in grades four and five. They looked at both WKCE and Measures of Academic Progress (MAP) scores. These assessments showed specific areas where students were experiencing difficulty. Teachers were able to direct their instructional strategies to meet these deficiencies and strengthen the students’ skills.
Alison Spiegel, Principal of Craig High School, said they used CBA’s to help students prepare for the WKCE test. They also looked very carefully at items on the test on which students experienced difficulty. Intervention plans such as practice tests (scrimmages) were developed. Constructive responses across the curriculum were used. They followed up the interventions with student surveys after the WKCE test to determine what was most helpful to students – identifying areas that gave them confidence, areas of struggles; and areas where improvement was needed.

Discussion and Consider Approval to Eliminate the Director of Student Services Position and the Director of Student Services Secretary Position Beginning with the 2011-12 School Year.

Comm. Stottler moved, seconded by Comm. P. Severson, to reschedule discussion and action on items 11, 12 and 13 to the December 14, 2010 board meeting. The motion carried on a 9-0 vote.

Discussion and Consider Approval Beginning with the 2011-12 School Year for a Permanent Director of Special Education Position.
a. If Board Approves a Permanent Director of Special Education Position, Discuss and Consider Authorization to Offer the Position to Barbara Hilliker.
b. If Board Does Not Approve a Permanent Director of Special Education Position, and this Position Reverts back to a Coordinator Position, Discuss and Consider Authorization to Offer the Coordinator Position to Barbara Hilliker.
Discussion and action postponed to December 14, 2010 board meeting.

Discussion and Consider Approval Beginning with the 2011-12 School Year for a Permanent Director of At-Risk and Multicultural Services Position.
a. If Board Approves a Permanent Director of At-Risk and Multicultural Services Position, Discuss and Consider Authorization to Offer the Director Position to Yolanda Cargile.
b. If Board Does Not Approve a Permanent Director of At-Risk and Multicultural Services Position, and this Position Reverts back to a Coordinator Position, Discuss and Consider Authorization to Offer the Coordinator Position to Yolanda Cargile.
Discussion and action postponed to December 14, 2010 board meeting.

Report on Rounding. Comm. Hesselbacher said she has rounded on six schools to date. She provided comments in the board packets. She said all of the comments were taken out of context and summarized by her. She talked with about 80 individuals at each school. Comm. Hesselbacher said many things are working well. Employees are very happy to recognize their colleagues for doing great work. All principals were recognized by their staff as doing well. Steve Schlomann, Manager of Information Systems, received thanks from all schools. Response to Intervention and Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports were mentioned as having great potential. Staff would like more training on these. Comm. Hesselbacher said she found that traveling teachers were not as connected to their buildings. Teachers like the Tuesday morning staff development time, but they would like more collaborative time. She learned that textbook replacements along with science and art supplies were most affected by budget cuts. Building staff appreciate the support from the Educational Services Center. People love their jobs and really care about the students.
Comm. Stottler asked if Comm. Hesselbacher asked what the board could do or provide. Comm. Hesselbacher said she asked if there was anything specific she should share with her fellow board members. President Sodemann asked about the health and safety items mentioned in her report – air quality at Lincoln; mold problems at Monroe. He felt this needed immediate attention. Dr. Schulte said they are aware of the issues and are addressing them. She said an update could be provided to the board.

Announcements. Comm. Stottler noted that Joe Kruser, the advanced construction teacher at Parker and Craig, was recognized in the WASB School News magazine as an Alliant Energy Classroom Power Thinker for teaching students to use energy resources wisely.
Dr. Schulte noted that the Studer Group was one of seven nationwide recipients of the Malcom Baldrige Award. She also announced that the district has collected $23,584 for the food drive with half of that amount coming from the schools. Donations will continue to be accepted through November 29. United Way giving for the district is up 8% this year.

Future Board Agenda Items. Comm. D. Severson asked that the board receive updates on the sound barrier at Craig and also on the work of the Boundary Lines Committee.

Closed Session. Comm. Ardrey moved, seconded by Comm. Dommershausen, to meet in closed session at 8:17 p.m. per Wisconsin §19.85(1)(c) to consider matters previously noticed (2e. Regarding Annual Evaluation of the Superintendent based on the LEM – Leadership Evaluation Management Tool) at a closed session earlier in the evening. The motion carried on a 9-0 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sheridan, Sodemann and Stottler voting in the affirmative.

Adjournment Comm. Stottler moved, seconded by Comm. D. Severson, to adjourn the closed session at 9:03 p.m. The motion carried on a 9-0 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sheridan, Sodemann and Stottler voting in the affirmative.

________________________________
Nancy M. Hewes, Assistant Board Clerk
Janesville Board of Education

Janesville Board of Education Meeting
Craig High School
November 9, 2010
6:30 p.m.

Commissioners present: Ardrey, Dommershausen, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sheridan and Stottler.
Commissioner absent: Sodemann

Vice-President Sheridan called the meeting to order which was duly noticed on November 5, 2010 through posting and notification of the press in accordance with Wisconsin §19.84.

Craig High School student Thomas Meister led the Pledge of Allegiance. Craig Principal Alison Spiegel stated that Tom won eight of the nine cross country meets he ran in this year and also placed second in the state meet.

Citizen Comments. None

Student Representatives to the Board. Rachel Philipps, representative of Craig High School, said the Link Crew sponsored a Halloween dance which was well attended. The boys cross country team qualified for state competition for the sixth time. Craig hosted 12 German students who were visiting for a short time. WKCE testing was held last week. The musical “Wedding Singer” was a great production with almost 2,400 people in attendance. Student Council is brainstorming ideas on ways to raise funds for the “Delivering Bags of Hope” for the district’s second annual food drive. Turkey Day cards will be sold, advisory groups will be competing and loose change will be collected. Parent-teacher conferences will be held on Wednesday and Thursday. The Craig PTO will be holding a fundraiser with assistance from Buffalo Wild Wings. Winter sports are starting. Craig is taking suggestions for honorees for the Wall of Honor.
Amanda Hanson, Parker High School representative, said they had a successful homecoming spirit week. The Parker parade was great with over 500 participants from 40 organizations. Students also enjoyed the homecoming dance. Parker students have also been involved in WKCE testing. They have also had students and staff visiting from Germany and Argentina over the past two weeks. The Parker musical “Happy Days” will be presented November 18-21. Parker students are making plans for the district’s food drive and have indicated a willingness to help. The Student Leadership Council will be sponsoring a special Hat Day to raise money. The SLC and Key Club are working on plans for a community-wide service and charity event this spring. The four-plex gym area is now open for public use. Counselors are meeting with juniors and seniors to review graduation course requirements and future plans.

Consider Approval of Consent Agenda. Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. Stottler to approve: a. Minutes of the October 26, 2010 regular board meeting; b. Receive and File Fund Summary Report. Revenues in the aggregate for October 2010 were $773,755 and aggregate expenditures were $26,327,024. c. Resignations/Retirements. The teaching position retirement of Edward Quaerna, effective January 21, 2011; d. Appointments. None; e. Approve application for Lifelong Engagement in Education Partnership (LEEP) Grant in the amount of $500,000 (Schools of Recognition Grants); and f. Approve
Board of Education -2- November 9, 2010

application for Project Lead the Way grant in the amount of $20,000 each for Edison, Franklin and Marshall Middle Schools. The motion carried on an 8-0 vote.

Presentation on Year-Round School. Shawn Galvin, Principal of Lincoln Elementary School, thanked Comm. P. Severson for the invitation to present to the board on year-round school. He said he had previously taught at an elementary school in Rockford that operated on a year-round calendar. Mr. Galvin said his remarks will be from personal experience and also from research projects in his graduate studies. He aligned his presentation with the district’s Pillars of Excellence. Under the pillar of service, Mr. Galvin said it is a misconception that students attend school every day under year-round school. Students actually attend school for the same number of required days (180), but they are spread out more evenly throughout the year. It was important that community organizations partnered with the school to provide child care because that was a major concern of parents. The more frequent breaks in the school calendar allow time for parents to schedule appointments. The children do not miss as much instructional time and attendance rates increase. Mr. Galvin said students come back to school refreshed after a three week break. Summer learning loss is minimized because the summer break is shortened to six weeks. Mr. Galvin said they got 79 percent approval from the parents of the elementary school in order to change to a year-round calendar. Under the pillar of quality, Mr. Galvin said findings are mixed with regard to a year-round calendar. He has yet to find any negatives. A year-round calendar helps close the summer learning gap. The students work hard for four nine week cycles and have three weeks off in between, and then have six weeks off during the summer. Under the pillar of people, teachers spend less time reviewing previously taught material and can cover more new material. Teachers return after breaks refreshed and energized. Teachers can tutor students from their own classes during spring and fall intercessions. Through a grant, Rockford was able to pay teachers a stipend for tutoring. Under growth opportunities, there were waiting lists at both year-round schools in Rockford. In the finance area, administrators, teachers and custodians can be contracted for the same number of days. Under the health and safety pillar, Mr. Galvin said he did not see a lot of problems with regard to teaching in a non-air conditioned building. An additional benefit from year-round school is that children have less unsupervised time during the summer.
Comm. Stottler said she had done some research and found there are 3,181 schools in 46 states that have tried year-round school. She felt this was an effective opportunity to serve disadvantaged students. She asked Mr. Galvin if there was talk of going back to a traditional school calendar in Rockford. Mr. Galvin said there was some talk about it; but with a change in superintendent, there is now talk of implementing a vertical strand from elementary to middle school to high school. Comm. Stottler asked about options for teachers to take credit classes during the summer. Mr. Galvin felt there were plenty of options available. Comm. Stottler asked about having an adequate block of time to do summer maintenance in a building. Mr. Galvin said they accommodated maintenance work by altering the schedules. Comm. Sheridan asked for the reaction of teachers to this calendar schedule. Mr. Galvin said they had to first get teacher approval to change the calendar. They found they had teachers who wanted to teach under the year-round arrangement. He felt it was good for teachers and students alike to have more frequent break periods to get refreshed. Comm. P. Severson hoped people could keep this

Board of Education -3- November 9, 2010

type of programming in mind for future consideration. He hoped to have some community discussion sessions on a year-round school calendar.

Discussion and Consider Approval of Listening Sessions to be Hosted at Selected School LMC’s on a Rotating Basis. Comm. Dommershausen suggested that these community sessions be held on a monthly basis with each board member committing to attending a session once every three months. Other board members would be welcome at any session. These sessions would be held at a different school September through May. The discussion would not be limited to issues at that particular school. He felt this could lead to increased transparency. He also felt this would be a more comfortable and less intimidating atmosphere for citizens to interact with the board. Comm. Dommershausen said he would like to target beginning these sessions in January. Comm. Ardrey said when he and Comm. Sheridan held a listening session on diversity, he felt a natural outcome would be a continuation of this process with various topics. He said he would support listening sessions. Comm. P. Severson was in full support of this opportunity to meet with the public. Comm. D. Severson suggested that Comm. Dommershausen and President Sodemann meet with Dr. Schulte to set dates, times and locations for such sessions as soon as possible so board members can sign up to attend. Comm. Sheridan supported holding listening sessions. She felt there was a sense of intimidation at a formal board meeting. Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. Ardrey, to approve listening sessions to be hosted at schools on a rotating basis. The motion carried on an 8-0 vote.

Announcements. Comm. Stottler offered congratulations to all who were involved in the Craig musical. She also asked if parents could be surveyed during parent/teacher conference days on how the Tuesday morning professional development days were affecting them. She also asked that the board use the zero-based budget model for developing the 2011-12 budget. She also asked for financial support for herself and Dr. Schulte as they will be “locked up in jail” as part of the Muscular Dystrophy Association fundraiser.
Comm. Hesselbacher mentioned that the new documentary on unaccompanied youth produced by a Beloit filmmaker will be shown at 6 p.m. on November 16 at UW-Rock County. She said the film name is 16:49 which represents the amount of time a student spends from the end of one school day until the beginning of the next.
Dr. Schulte said the School District of Janesville will be holding its second annual food drive “Delivering Bags of Hope” on December 18. The organizing committee is looking for volunteers to help and also for financial donations in order to purchase the food at bulk rates. The deadline for donations is November 24. She also noted that the Rock County Homeless Intervention Task Force has invited school board members to attend a meeting on December 10 at noon at the Rock County Jobs Center to share survey results.

Future Board Agenda Items. None

Board of Education -4- November 9, 2010

Adjournment. Comm. Stottler moved, seconded by Comm. D. Severson, to adjourn at 7:18 p.m. The motion carried on an 8-0 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sheridan and Stottler voting in the affirmative.

_________________________________
Nancy M. Hewes, Assistant Board Clerk
Janesville Board of Education

 

October 2010

Janesville Board of Education Meeting
Educational Services Center
October 26, 2010
6:30 p.m.

Commissioners present: Ardrey, Dommershausen, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sheridan, Sodemann and Stottler.

President Sodemann called the meeting to order which was duly noticed on October 22, 2010 through posting and notification of the press in accordance with Wisconsin §19.84.

Emily Sodemann, a student at Parker High School, led the Pledge of Allegiance.

Citizen Comments. Jane Thompson, 4223 Huntinghorne Dr., referenced a Milwaukee Journal Sentinel article stating that the study of languages has dropped somewhat in Wisconsin. Other countries are increasing language study at a faster pace and at a younger age. She said the Janesville Academy for International Studies has partnerships with companies that do business globally. She felt French and German are still very viable languages for students to learn. Wisconsin does a lot of trade with countries that speak these languages. Ms. Thompson also felt that languages could be taught in collaboration with social studies courses. They do not have to be taught as a separate course.

Student Representatives to the Board. a. There was no representative from the Janesville Virtual Academy.
b. Minaliza Shahlapour represented the Janesville Academy for International Studies. She said there were 30 students enrolled in JAIS between the morning and afternoon classes. JAIS offers instruction in three languages: Japanese, Farsi and Arabic. The students’ studies are focused on world cultures and global issues. Minaliza told of the areas of study to be covered first semester – world religions, explore geographical and historical perspectives, world literature, international films, and conduct research on regional topics. A number of guest speakers have shared information about their cultures with the students. The students visited an Asian art museum and Buddhist Center in Madison and had lunch at a Thai restaurant. The students are currently involved in doing in-depth studies of various countries. Students can earn three honors credits through JAIS: one in English, one in social studies, and one in world language/culture. Board members were invited to an open house scheduled for December 2 from 4-6 p.m.

Consent Agenda. Comm. Sheridan moved, seconded by Comm. Ardrey, to approve the consent agenda: a. Approve minutes of October 12, 2010 board meeting b. Resignations/Retirements. None. c. Appointment of Kaleigh Pope to a teaching position effective October 6, 2010; d. authorize payment of post secondary Youth Options applications – 2011 spring semester; e. Commendations. The motion carried on a 9-0 vote.

What’s Right in Education/Dashboard. Dr. Schulte said she would forego reviewing the recognition comments included in her report in the board packet in order to give Marshall Middle School the opportunity to highlight student achievement.
a. Synthia Taylor, Principal of Marshall Middle School, said one of their goals is to increase WKCE test scores in reading for all students. One of their school improvement plan goals is to concentrate on understanding text. In math, they will be focusing on algebraic relationships. They have seen growth over the past three years. Watch groups are students with disabilities in reading and math. Marshall’s goals link back directly to the board goals. Comm. P. Severson asked how the single gender classroom instruction was going. Ms. Taylor said it is going well and she is scheduled to give a two-year update to the board in May.
b. Presentation on Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports. Barbara Hilliker, Director of Special Education, said she would talk about the process and Marshall staff would talk about implementation. Ms. Hilliker said the district began this program in August of 2009. Three components led to undertaking this program. First was the District Discipline Committee’s discussion of finding ways to address truancy, suspensions and expulsions in a proactive manner. The district was also looking at a systematic way to address behavior as part of the Response to Intervention process. Third, was the availability of stimulus money to provide professional development. Ms. Hilliker said PBIS got its start in the special education department at the federal level. There was a concern that many students with disabilities had extreme behavioral problems. Further study found there were behavior problems with the general student population across the nation. There was not a solid foundation for the instruction of student behavior and consistent practices and positive rewards. Individual buildings can collect student behavioral data, analyze it, and then determine how to use that data to increase student achievement, improve school safety, decrease problem behavior, and establish a positive school culture. The four major goals of PBIS are: practice and re-teaching skills; reinforce and reward good behavior; build relational capacity with students; and establish consistency in behavior expectations. Ms. Hilliker said Comm. P. Severson serves on the district PBIS team and is a staunch supporter. Ten schools in Janesville are considered PBIS schools, each with their own team.
Shawn Kane, PBIS leader at Marshall, explained how this process has been implemented. The school-wide approach started with staff input and buy in, team selection, professional development, defining the expected behavior for students, and collaboration and implementation. He said PBIS is data driven. Last year, 91 percent of sixth grade students met the expected behavior; 73 percent of seventh graders; and 64 percent of eighth graders. Mr. Kane said they quantified the lost instructional time related to behavioral issues. They quantified how many students were in in-school suspension (ISS), out of school suspension (OSS) and how many office disciplinary referrals (ODR) were written. Last year, 866 ODR’s translated into 12 lost instructional days which impacts student achievement. There were also 146 days lost to ISS and 246 days lost to OSS. The universal action plan was to develop a school-wide teaching model to teach the expected behaviors for nine different areas of the school. This was done through the use of video presentations showing specific expectations. The acknowledgement system rewarded and recognized expected behavior of students as well as recognizing staff. The Cardinal Code of Be Respectful, Be Responsible, and Be Safe was developed. After implementation of PBIS, ODR’s for September 2010 were down by 43; ODR’s for October 2010 are down by 82. To date, Marshall has reclaimed 5.2 days of instructional time over 2009.

Report on 2010 Summer School. Steven Huth, Summer School Director, said a summary of 2010 Summer School was included in the board packet. He said 2,900 students were served this past summer at elementary schools, all three middle schools and the two recently renovated high schools. In comparison to 2009, overall enrollment declined by 7 percent while full time equivalents on which state aid reimbursement is generated only declined by 3 percent.
David Hintze described a new middle school course “Survival Science” that was offered at the Janesville Schools Outdoor Lab (JSOL) which is a 160-acre certified school forest. The four components of the course were fire, water, navigation and shelter. The course culminated in a family day where the students were able to show off the new skills they had learned. Mr. Hintz showed a short video of the activities.

Discussion and Consider Approval of Up to $50,000 of Local Funding to Pay for a Grant Writer to be Hired Immediately. This Additional Expense will be Offset by the Inclusion in the2010-1011 Budget of Up to $50,000 of Related Grant Revenue and Cost Sharing Revenue from Other Districts. Dr. Schulte said on August 24, 2010, the Personnel Committee brought forward the idea of hiring a grant writer. The committee directed her to gather further information, which she has provided. Dr. Schulte said she would like to have a grant writer on staff, but also recognizes budgetary concerns. She felt the district could recoup its investment, but cannot guarantee it. District staff has been very successful in the past with grant applications. Comm. Hesselbacher said there was a SDJ grant summary included in the board packet. She said the competitive state and federal grants she previously wrote tended to be for after school programs, additional school counselors and social workers, etc. She felt there might be other grants available in curriculum or athletics. Comm. Hesselbacher moved, seconded by Comm. Dommershausen, to approve up to $50,000 of local funding to pay for a grant writer to be hired immediately. This additional expense will be offset by the inclusion in the 2010-11 budget of up to $50,000 of related grant revenue and cost sharing revenue from other districts. Comm. Murray saw this as a risk/benefit question, but thought it was a good risk. The district needs to open itself to additional revenue streams. He felt this was a tough decision to balance. He would rather see the board discuss this position as a part of next year’s budget. Comm. Sheridan asked if this position was only for the 2010-11 school year. Dr. Schulte said yes. It would be reviewed as part of the 2011-12 budget discussions. Comm. Stottler felt it would be better to contract for a grant writer rather than to add a staff position with benefits. Dr. Schulte said the way the agenda item was written for a motion, it would be for a full time staff position with benefits, but it could also be designated as a contract position.
Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. Ardrey, to postpone consideration of this position until discussion of the 2011-12 budget cycle begins. Comm. Dommershausen felt there was not enough time left in the 2010-11 school year to hire a person and get the results expected. Comm. D. Severson felt it was a good idea to pay a grant writer a percentage of the funds they brought in. He like the idea of delaying this to the 2011-12 budget and having this as a contracted position. He noted that the district applied for 23 grants and could have applied for 50. President Sodemann felt there would continue to be grant writing done by staff. He thought it would be hard to measure the success attributable specifically to the grant writer because he/she would have to work collaboratively with regular district staff. He also noted that some grants are awarded with the expectation that the district continue the program with local money. He would prefer that the grant writer be a contracted position on an hourly basis. The motion failed on a 3-6 vote with Comms. Murray, D. Severson and P. Severson voting in the affirmative. Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Hesselbacher, Sheridan, Sodemann and Stottler voting in opposition.
Comm. Sodemann moved, seconded by Comm. Stottler, to amend the motion by substituting the use of a contracted outside person versus hiring a full time staff person, and also changing the amount of compensation for the position to up to $35,000 for the 2010-11 budget year. The amendment carried on a 7-2 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, Sheridan, Sodemann and Stottler. Comms. Dommershausen and P. Severson voted in opposition.
The motion, as amended, to approve up to $35,000 of local funding to pay for a grant writer to be hired immediately on a contracted basis. This additional expense will be offset by the inclusion in the 2010-11 budget of up to $35,000 of related grant revenue and cost sharing revenue from other districts. The motion carried on an 8-1 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, Sheridan, Sodemann and Stottler voting in the affirmative. Comm. P. Severson voted in opposition.

Discussion and Consider Approval of a 2.75% Increase in Overall Salary Compensation Package for the Non-Represented Staff. Dr. Schulte said she met with representatives from each group of the non-represented employees. They were interested in equalizing the pay for kitchen managers, occupational and physical therapy assistants, and two directors. The group was also interested in a percentage increase rather than a flat rate increase. Dr. Schulte requested that the board consider approval of a 2.75 % increase for the non-represented group. This group did accept a pay freeze last year. This recommendation would equal the 2.25% the Janesville Education Association received in its recent contract settlement (not including step increases and other benefits) and to use the remaining .5% to equalize pay for the positions previously mentioned. Dr. Schulte said she had originally hoped to develop a longevity schedule for the whole group because only the principals and assistant principals currently have such step increases, but there was simply not any money left. Dr. Schulte said she would leave that for another time. Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. D. Severson, to approve a 2.25% increase plus a .5% discretionary increase to equalize salary discrepancies for a 2.75% overall salary compensation package increase for non-represented staff. Comm. P. Severson felt it was important to bring up the salaries for the low end of the non-represented staff. He was not interested in increasing compensation for the upper end of this group. Comm. Stottler supported equalizing pay for the positions mentioned, but felt any increase in administrator compensation should be delayed and paid retroactively if the district came in under budget. President Sodemann asked if each non-represented employee would receive a 2.25% increase. Dr. Schulte said they would be reviewing individual employee performance. Some non-represented employees may receive more or less than the 2.25%. President Sodemann clarified that the board was voting on a dollar amount based on a percentage; not stating that each non-represented employee would automatically get a 2.25% increase.
 

Comm. P. Severson moved, seconded by Comm. Ardrey, to divide the question and consider approval of the .5% discretionary increase to equalize salary discrepancies in the non-represented employee group. The motion to divide the question carried on an 8-1 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Hesselbacher, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sheridan, Sodemann and Stottler voting in the affirmative. Comm. Murray voted in opposition.
Comm. Stottler moved, seconded by Comm. P. Severson, to approve a .5% discretionary dollar increase to equalize salary discrepancies in the non-represented employee group. Comm. P. Severson felt equalizing salaries was important in order for Dr. Schulte to develop a longevity schedule for this non-represented group. Comm. D. Severson asked for the dollar impact of the .5% increase. Mr. Pennington said it was $40,770. The motion carried on a 9-0 vote.

President Sodemann said the board would now be discussing and considering the second part of the divided question – a 2.25% increase in overall total compensation for non-represented employees for 2010-11 with the current motion. Even though the employee group representatives requested a percentage increase, he felt a flat dollar amount would help those employees at the bottom of the salary range. Comms. Hesselbacher and D. Severson felt all employees in this group should receive a 2.25% increase. Comm. Ardrey felt the district asks a lot of its employees and will continue to do so. From a fairness standpoint with the JEA, he felt the district needed to compensate its leaders as well. President Sodemann said the 2.25% increase was less than JEA members received when including the step increase. However, in comparison with the private sector, many employees have not had pay increases or have seen their pay reduced.
Comm. Sodemann moved, seconded by Comm. Ardrey, to amend the motion to read that the salary increase becomes 2% for all non-represented positions ranked below that of vice-principal and a 1% increase for all positions that are vice-principal and above. President Sodemann clarified that how the overall percentage increase is divided among the groups is up to the discretion of Dr. Schulte. The amendment failed on a 1-8 vote with Comm. Sodemann voting in the affirmative. Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sheridan and Stottler voting in opposition.
The pending motion is to approve a 2.25% overall salary compensation package increase for non-represented employees for 2010-11. The motion carried on a 7-2 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, Sheridan and Stottler voting in the affirmative. Comms. P. Severson and Sodemann voted in opposition.

Consider Approval to Use No More than $145,000 from the Fund Balance to Correct the Noise Situation at Craig High School. Mr. Pennington said at the August 28, 2010 meeting, the board authorized spending up to $145,000 to correct the noise situation from the chiller tower at Craig High School. The source of the funding was not specified. Mr. Pennington explained that the Fund 10 balance could be used for this as it could be considered a one time cost for a capital improvement under Board Policy 3320. Comm. Sheridan moved, seconded by Comm. D. Severson, to approve using no more than $145,000 from the fund balance to correct the noise situation at Craig High School. The motion carried on a 9-0 vote.

The board temporarily recessed from 8:25-8:35 p.m.

Consider Approval of Urgent Revision to Board Policy 3320, General Fund Balance. President Sodemann stated that at the last board meeting, the board voted to use $1.5 million from the Fund 10 balance to help balance the 2010-11 budget. If the district goes ahead with this, and the fund balance drops below the percentage established for the unreserved-designated category in Board Policy 3320, the board would need to modify the policy. Board policy revision is usually a two-step process – a first reading and a second reading. However Board Policy 8530 allows the board to waive the two reading requirement and take action to revise existing policy in matters of unusual urgency. President Sodemann also explained that whatever budget amount the board does not put on the taxpayers’ roll, that amount is being used to buy down the district’s property tax levy, which is allowed under Board Policy 3320. President Sodemann said administration was recommending that the unreserved-designated general fund balance percentage be changed from 19 to 23% to 17 to 23%. This would give administration the flexibility to cover the shortfall plus a very small cushion. Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. Stottler, to approve revision to Board Policy 3320, General Fund Balance, to lower the minimum of the unreserved-designated General Fund Balance from 19% to 17%. The motion carried on an 8-1 vote with Comms. Dommershausen, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sheridan, Sodemann and Stottler voting in the affirmative. Comm. Ardrey voted in opposition.
Comm. Sodemann moved, seconded by Comm. Hesselbacher, to allow the preceding motion to be effective as a one-time only exception. Comm. Stottler said she had compared the school district’s reserve to other area municipalities and felt it could be lowered to 17% on a permanent basis. Mr. Pennington said he had discussed the $1.6 million budget shortfall and also the additional $500,000 shortage with the bond rating companies and they were well aware of this situation. He did not think the revision to the fund balance policy would adversely affect the district’s bond rating. Comm. P. Severson clarified that the intent of President Sodemann’s motion is to repay this money in the 2011-12 budget and reinstate the 19% minimum unreserved-designated general fund balance. President Sodemann said that was correct. The motion failed on a 2-7 vote with Comms. Hesselbacher and Sodemann voting in the affirmative. Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sheridan and Stottler.

Final Discussion and Consider Adoption of the 2010-11 School District Budget. Mr. Pennington said as of the October 18, 2010 memo that was distributed to everyone, the 2010-11 budget shortfall stood at a $1.779 million. Taking this into consideration the action taken by the board tonight and the two AFSCME Local 938 union contracts still not settled, he estimated the shortfall to be $2,143,066. With the suggested use of $1.5 million from the Fund balance and the revision to Board Policy 3320, the district has the capacity to use the fund balance cover the entire shortfall. The board may also consider increasing the property tax levy to alleviate the shortfall. Mr. Pennington said staff was awaiting the board’s decision on closing the shortfall so the board may then adopt the 2010-11 school district budget. Comm. Sheridan moved, seconded by Comm. Murray, to adopt the 2010-11 district budget as presented and cover the shortfall by using the Fund 10 balance. The motion carried on a 9-0 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sheridan, Sodemann and Stottler voting in the affirmative.

Consider Adoption of the School Tax Levy. Mr. Pennington presented the motion that the board needed to adopt. Comm. Sheridan moved, seconded by Comm. Ardrey, to adopt the 2010-11 school tax levy in the amount of $35,877,881 and to specify $8,805,100 of that amount be levied as a direct irrepealable tax for the sole purpose of paying the principal and interest on the District’s long term debt obligations. Comm. Sheridan clarified that the amount reflected a 4% increase in the property tax levy. Mr. Pennington said it was a 4% increase in the property tax levy which translates into a 3.17% overall property tax increase. The motion carried on a 9-0 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sheridan, Sodemann and Stottler voting in the affirmative.

Update on Work of Boundary Lines Committee. Chairperson Ardrey said he and Mr. Pennington have been working with the City of Janesville to get updated maps plotting elementary and middle school students by grade level. Chairperson Ardrey said the committee will be meeting within the next few weeks to review the information. He hopes to bring a recommendation to the board by the latter part of November.

Discussion and Consider Approval of Two Additional Board Members to the Excellence in Education Board: Dr. Susan Sellman and Mr. Todd Sitter, CPA. Dr. Schulte said when the school board approved the formation of the Excellence in Education Foundation, it also stipulated that it would approve board members for the Foundation. Dr. Schulte said the Foundation would like to increase its board membership with the addition of Dr. Susan Sellman and Mr. Todd Sitter. Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. Sheridan, to approve two additional board members to the Excellence in Education Board – Dr. Susan Sellman and Mr. Todd Sitter, CPA. Comm. P. Severson said he would like to see a more formal application process developed. Dr. Schulte said she could bring a request to the Foundation board for a more formal process. She said the Foundation wanted to have an accountant on the board. She recommended Dr. Susan Sellman because of her involvement in the district. She said they both visited the Foundation board. The Foundation board now has seven members. The motion carried on an 8-0-1 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sheridan and Sodemann. Comm. Stottler abstained from voting.

Announcements. Dr. Schulte commended the Parker staff and students for working through the issue of the wind damage to the school roof. She also commended Dave Leeder, Maintenance Supervisor, for his efforts. There will be no school for Parker students on Wednesday, October 27, 2010 due to safety issues. Staff will be working at their evacuation sites. Parker does have enough hours so this will not need to be a make-up day unless there are future snow days. Comm. Stottler asked for a factual report of the situation. Dr. Schulte said there were no injuries. The damage was to an older part of the roof. The repairs are estimated at $215,000. The district does carry insurance with a $10,000 deductible.
Comm. Murray noted that School District of Janesville employees are the second largest group of givers for the United Way of North Rock County with giving totaling $80,000.  Future Board Agenda Items. Comm. Murray suggested that the board begin work on the 2011-12 budget quickly.
Comm. Hesselbacher said she has completed rounding at four different schools. She will send out a memo summarizing her findings and then have the item placed on a future board agenda.

Adjournment. Comm. Stottler moved, seconded by Comm. Sheridan, to adjourn at 9:10 p.m. The motion carried on a 9-0 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sheridan, Sodemann and Stottler voting in the affirmative.

_________________________________
Nancy M. Hewes, Assistant Board Clerk
Janesville Board of Education
 

Janesville Board of Education Meeting
Educational Services Center
October 12, 2010
6:30 p.m.

Commissioners present: Ardrey, Dommershausen, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sheridan, Sodemann and Stottler (left meeting at 8:00 p.m.).

President Sodemann called the meeting to order which was duly noticed on October 8, 2010 through posting and notification of the press in accordance with Wisconsin §19.84.

Roosevelt Elementary School students Samuel, Isaac and Joseph Stried led the Pledge of Allegiance.

Citizen Comments. None.

Signing of Standards of Professional Behavior by Board of Education. Comms. Dommershausen and Hesselbacher signed the Standards. All other board members re-signed the document.

Board Recognition. Linda Miller, German teacher at Craig, said the German-American Partnership Program has been in existence at Craig since the 1970’s. About 20 German students visit every two years under this program. Craig students visit Germany in the summer months. Ms. Miller introduced the German students and their host families. Sarah Bleicher, German teacher at Parker, said they started their student exchange program about 10 years ago. There are 15 German students attending classes at Parker for the next few weeks. President Sodemann presented certificates to the German exchange students.

Student Representatives to the Board. Rachel Philipps, representative of Craig High School, said homecoming week was a huge success with dress-up days, pep assembly the football game and the dance. Rachel said the Craig musical will be “The Wedding Singer.” Choir members will present their first concert tomorrow evening. Craig was represented at the state tennis tournament. FFA members attended the World Dairy Expo in Madison. WKCE testing for sophomores is coming up and parent-teacher conferences are scheduled for November 10 and 11.
Jamie Lilburn, Parker High School representative, said the Student Leadership Council has been busy with a number of events. They sponsored a student appreciation night at a recent football game and gave out bandannas and raffled off Parker apparel to students. Freshmen elections have been held. The SLC has discussed Parker’s new dress code policy and Viking values to create a positive learning atmosphere. This is homecoming week and will culminate with a pep rally, assembly and homecoming parade on Friday afternoon. Jamie said the 15 German student visitors will be leaving, but 15 students from Argentina will be arriving soon.

Consider Approval of Consent Agenda. Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. Dommershausen to approve: a. Minutes of the September 28, 2010 regular board meeting; b. Resignations/Retirements. None; c. Appointments. None; d. Commendations; e. Receive and file fund summary report. Revenues in the aggregate for September 2010 were $10,604,553 and aggregate expenditures were $11,284,047. The motion carried on a 9-0 vote.

Personnel Committee Report. a. Report on special area teachers. Chairperson Sheridan said the consensus of the committee was to not pursue changes regarding special area teacher staffing due to budget constraints.
b. Discussion and possible action on 2011-12 Staffing Plan. Assumptions. Chairperson Sheridan said the committee approved directing administration to move forward with a staffing plan based on the 5-year average kindergarten enrollment projection with SAGE at Jackson and Wilson. Dr. Sperry reviewed the 12 teacher staffing plan assumptions for 2011-12. Dr. Sperry said he was basing the staffing plan on student achievement goals and enrollment. Comm. Stottler asked if the 2011-12 staffing plan will have any financial assumptions or data included. Dr. Sperry said yes, there would be dollar amounts associated with the plan. President Sodemann asked for data on how the actual kindergarten enrollment for 2010-11 compared to the 5-year projection. Comm. Sheridan moved, seconded by Comm. Murray, to direct Dr. Sperry to prepare a staffing plan based on the assumptions as presented using the 5-year average kindergarten enrollment projection with SAGE at Jackson and Wilson. President Sodemann asked if changes could be made to the teacher/pupil ratio in the future. The motion carried on an 8-0-1 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sheridan and Stottler voting in the affirmative. Comm. Sodemann abstained from voting.
Calendar. Dr. Sperry said a Timeline for Employee Layoffs for various employee groups was included in the board packet. Also included was a chart showing administrators with contracts expiring June 30, 2011 and a Non-Renewal Notification Timeline.
c. Discussion and consider approval of up to $50,000 of local funding to pay for a grant writer to be hired immediately. This additional expense will be offset by the inclusion in the 2010-11 budget of up to $50,000 of related grant revenue and cost sharing revenue from other districts. Chairperson Sheridan explained that due to time constraints, the committee did not have time to discuss this agenda item. It was forwarded to the full board for discussion and possible action. Dr. Schulte said she was asked by board members how many grant opportunities were being missed in the district and what would be the cost of hiring a grant writer. Over the past several years, Dr. Schulte said staff and Comm. Hesselbacher have brought in over $7 million in grants. She said this has enabled the district to offer safety response training for all building emergency teams, after school programs at five schools, hiring diversity specialists to help raise achievement levels for African American and Hispanic students, video surveillance equipment, and other items. Dr. Schulte thought some of the grant money might offset the cost and recommended that the board consider funding this position. Comm. P. Severson asked where the cost sharing part of the proposal would come from. Dr. Schulte said she has talked with some of the surrounding districts and they expressed an interest, but she did not have any firm commitments at this time. Comm. D. Severson asked how much money the district received in grants over the past several years. Dr. Schulte said she could provide the board with that information. Comm. Hesselbacher explained that grant writer costs may or may not be included as a part of the grant. Comm. D. Severson figured about $1.67 million in grants would have to be written to cover the cost of a grant writer based on using 2.94 percent for indirect costs for federal grants. He also asked about hiring a full-time grant writer versus a part-time writer. Comm. Hesselbacher said a full-time person would have the advantage of being able to do more advanced planning, gathering data, doing follow-up, serving as a resource, etc. Comm. D. Severson said he did not have enough specific information regarding the addition of this much money to the 2010-11 budget to justify approving the grant writer position. Comm. Stottler thought this was a good idea, but felt it was something for the board to consider down the road. She did not think it could be handled in this budget year. Comm. Murray thought there was some risk in approving this position based on how the cost would be offset, but felt it was a viable revenue stream for the district. He wondered if there was enough time between now and the end of the school year to see if this position can pay for itself. Dr. Schulte felt there was the opportunity to write grants between now and June 30 to support this position. Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. Dommershausen, to approve using up to $50,000 of local funding to pay for a grant writer to be hired immediately as presented. Comm. D. Severson asked if there was a list of grants that the district had missed applying for. He asked that in the future all board members be given information that is distributed to committee members. Comm. D. Severson moved, seconded by Comm. Ardrey, to postpone this agenda item to the October 26, 2010 board meeting. President Sodemann said the information the board was seeking was a list of grants that the district missed out on applying for and a list of grants it has received and a summary of how the monies were used. Dr. Schulte said she had offered a number of bulletins explaining what grants are available. Comm. Ardrey asked for a cost structure model that would show how administration planned to cover the $50,000 proposed cost. Comm. P. Severson asked for a list of other districts that might be interested in cost sharing for this position and whether they would be willing to make an actual commitment. Comm. Stottler asked for a position description and financial data for both a person hired as a full-time employee of the district and also a person who would be willing to do this work on a per grant or contract basis. Comm. D. Severson asked Dr. Schulte how she arrived at the $50,000 salary. He also asked how long it takes to write a grant. President Sodemann asked if the $50,000 was an annual cost and included benefits. Dr. Schulte said yes. He also asked if grant money was “seed money” with the thought that the district would eventually pick up the cost of the program with local dollars. Comm. Hesselbacher said that was the optimum expectation, but not always the actual outcome. The motion to postpone this agenda item to the October 26, 2010 board meeting carried on an 8-1 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sheridan, Sodemann and Stottler voting in the affirmative. Comm. Hesselbacher voted in opposition.
Comm. Stottler left the meeting at 8:00 p.m.

Finance Committee Report. a. Discussion and consider approval of proposal to seek community funding for the elementary track meet. Comm. Dommershausen said he thought the elementary track meet was part of the athletic budget but found out it is in the curriculum budget. After the board discussed the elementary track meet in August, Comm. Dommershausen said he has received commitments for about half of the cost of this School District of Janesville proposal. He distributed a cost analysis of the event which showed an estimated cost of $5,029. Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. D. Severson, to allow community funding to cover the cost of the 2011 4th and 5th grade track meet. The motion carried on an 8-0 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sheridan and Sodemann voting in the affirmative.
b. Report regarding possible revenue source from operation of concession stand at UW-Madison through the National W Club. Comm. Dommershausen said he learned about this opportunity through his work with other organizations. He has since found out that some school district organizations/clubs already run some of the concession stands. Comm. Dommershausen said the board would inform groups of this opportunity, but would not be involved in operating any UW concession stands.

Discussion and Consider Approval of Resolution Authorizing the Issuance and Awarding the Sale of $16,400,000 Taxable General Obligation Refunding Bonds; Providing the Form of the Bonds; and Levying a Tax in Connection Therewith. Mr. Pennington said the district sold $16,535,000 in taxable short-term anticipation notes on September 14, 2010. Tonight, the board is being asked to consider refinancing those notes for $16,745,000 in 20-year refunding bonds to pay the cost of the district’s unfunded prior service liability owed to the Wisconsin Retirement System. Mr. Pennington said the district would save $500,000 more than anticipated over the 20 years. If the board does not approve this, the district would have an unfunded WRS liability of $20 million at the end of 2029. Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. Dommershausen, to approve a resolution authorizing the issuance and awarding the sale of $16,745,000 taxable general obligation refunding bonds; providing the form of the bonds; and levying a tax in connection therewith. The motion carried on an 8-0 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sheridan and Sodemann voting in the affirmative.

Discussion and Consider Approval of 2010-11 Proposed District Budget. Mr. Pennington said there are still several open/unknown items relating to the 2010-11 budget. There two AFSCME unions that have not reached a contract settlement, the district’s state aid revenue will not be known until October 15, and there is the sound barrier at Craig High School at an estimated cost of $145,000 yet to be accounted for in the budget. Mr. Pennington said the 2010-11 budget shortfall is estimated to be $1,659,000 at this point in time. This shortfall can be addressed through a further reduction in expenses, an increase in the tax levy from 4 percent, or usage of the Fund 10 balance – or any combination of the above. He said the down payment on the WRS bonds was reduced from the estimated $410,000 to less than $10,000. Mr. Pennington said administration was seeking guidance on how to close this budget shortfall.
Com. Murray said he would like to maintain the 4 percent tax levy. Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. D. Severson, to not increase the tax levy, but to use further budget cuts and/or the fund balance to close the budget shortfall. Mr. Pennington noted that to take the total shortfall from the fund balance only would require a change in the board policy of about one percent in the unreserved-designated category. Comm. Dommershausen felt some thought should be given to increasing the property tax levy. Comm. Sheridan felt administration should come up with $500,000 of further cuts for the 2010-11 budget year. Comm. D. Severson felt if the board could make $500,000 more in budget cuts, why not look for $1 million in cuts. Mr. Pennington said the bond rating companies were aware of the $1.6 million budget shortfall. Comm. Sodemann moved to amend the motion to state that whatever amount of money is
taken out of the Fund 10 account to balance the 2010-11 budget, that same amount should be replenished in the 2011-12 budget. The motion died for lack of a second. Comm. Ardrey felt it would be irresponsible to take one of the potential alternatives for solving the budget shortfall off the table at this point. The motion failed on a 4-4 vote with Comms. Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson and Sodemann voting in the affirmative. Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen P. Severson and Sheridan voted in opposition.
Comm. D. Severson moved, seconded by Comm. Murray, to close the 2010-11 budget shortfall through the usage of the Fund 10 balance. Comm. Sheridan asked how much of the unreserved-undesignated Fund 10 balance is available. Mr. Pennington said about $1,048,000 at the lowest percentage level per board policy. The motion failed on a 4-4 vote with Comms. Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson and Sodemann voting in the affirmative. Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen P. Severson and Sheridan voted in opposition.
Comm. D. Severson moved, seconded by Comm. Murray, to use $1.5 million of the Fund 10 balance to close the 2010-11 operational budget gap. The motion carried on a 6-2 vote with Comms. Dommershausen, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, Sheridan and Sodemann voting in the affirmative. Comms. Ardrey and P. Severson voted in opposition.

Report on W3. Dr. Schulte said she, Comm. Dommershausen, Dr. Cargile, and JEA member Jim Reif attended this forum on Saturday, October 2 in Madison. This is an initiative that was put together in 2007 by the Wisconsin Association of School Boards, the Wisconsin Association of School District Administrators, and the Wisconsin Education Association Council. These organizations have been exploring ways in which they can work together to build relationships and create partnerships to strengthen support for public education. The next W3 meeting is scheduled for November 20. Dr. Schulte said she is looking to form a local W3 group in the future.

Announcements. Dr. Schulte said State Superintendent Evers has issued a proclamation designating this week as Gifted Education Week.

Future Board Agenda Items. None

Closed Session. Comm. Sheridan moved, seconded by Comm. Murray, to meet in closed session at 8:52 p.m. per Wisconsin: a. §19.85 (1)(c) and (e) to seek direction and discuss items related to negotiations with the AFSCME Local 938 Custodial/Maintenance/Food Service Unit for the 2009-11 contract; b. §19.85 (1)(c) and (e) to seek direction and discuss items related to negotiations with the AFSCME Local 938 Secretary/Clerk/Aide Unit for the 2010-12 contract; c. §19.85 (1)(c) to seek direction and discuss items related to non-represented employees. The motion carried on an 8-0 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sheridan and Sodemann voting in the affirmative.

Adjournment. Comm. Dommershausen moved, seconded by Comm. D. Severson, to adjourn at 9:45 p.m. The motion carried on an 8-0 vote with Comms. Ardrey,

Dommershausen, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, P. Severson, Sheridan and Sodemann voting in the affirmative.

_________________________________
Nancy M. Hewes, Assistant Board Clerk
Janesville Board of Education
Janesville Board of Education Meeting

September 2010

Educational Services Center

September 28, 2010

6:30 p.m.

Commissioners present:  Ardrey, Murray, Dommershausen, Hesselbacher, D. Severson (arrived at 6:45 p.m.), P. Severson, Sheridan and Sodemann.

Commissioner absent:  Stottler

President Sodemann called the regular meeting to order which was duly noticed on September 24, 2010 through posting and notification of the press in accordance with Wisconsin §19.84.

Mykayla and Abigail Spingler, Jefferson Elementary students, led the Pledge of Allegiance.

Citizen Comments.  Shelly Schroeder, 234 Hillside Ct., strongly urged the board to vote in favor of installing a sound barrier wall to stop the noise from the chiller tower at Craig High School.  She said the noise is sometimes as loud as a jet engine and can be heard inside her house with all the doors and windows shut.  Ms. Schroeder said the noise is constant, but varies in volume.  She said many cities have noise ordinances, but Janesville does not.  She thought this was an oversight in the addition design and location of the chilling equipment.  The brick walls also serve to reflect and direct the noise towards a residential neighborhood.  Ms. Schroeder felt this should not be looked at as an additional cost but something that should have been addressed at the time of construction.

            Scott Schroeder, 234 Hillside Ct., said he was speaking on behalf of himself and also his neighbors.  He said they have been waiting patiently for over a year for a solution to this problem.  He said the constant noise level from the chiller system does not allow them to use their backyard.  He felt the noise could have been deflected toward the tennis courts and open field when the chiller tower was constructed.  He felt the best solution is to install a high wall sound barrier that would have the biggest impact on reducing this noise. 

Consider Approval of Consent Agenda.  Comm. Murray moved, seconded by Comm. Sheridan, to approve the consent agenda.  President Sodemann asked if anyone wished to remove any item.  Comm. P. Severson asked that item e. be removed from the consent agenda.  a.  Approve minutes of September 14, 2010 regular board meeting; and the September 21, 2010 special board meeting;  b.  Receive and file fund summary report.  Revenues in the aggregate for September 2010 were $262,548 and aggregate expenditures were $8,849,013  c.  Resignations/retirements.  None  d.  Appointments.  None  f.  Second reading of new Board Policy 3224, School Activity Passes and Senior Citizen Passes;  g.  Second reading of revised Board Policy 6467, Diplomas to Veterans.  The motion carried on a 7-0 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Hesselbacher, Murray, P. Severson, Sheridan and Sodemann voting in the affirmative.

Comm. D. Severson arrived.

            e.  Approve Girls Hockey Cooperative Agreement.  Comm. P. Severson said he was not a board member when this sport was initially approved and asked if $20,000 was the initial cost or the cost limit.  Mr. Pennington said last year there were 21 girls on the team – 10 of whom were from Janesville.  He said Janesville’s net cost for participation in the sport is shared pro-rata based on the number of students participating.  The cost of Janesville’s portion was a little over $11,000 or $1,100 per girl.  Comm. P. Severson asked if this contract had to be approved tonight.  Mr. Pennington said Janesville was the last district in the co-op to receive the contract.  Comm. P. Severson felt this should have been a discussion item before being placed on the agenda as an action item.  Comm. P. Severson moved, seconded by Comm. Sheridan, to postpone voting on the Girls Hockey Cooperative Agreement until the October 12, 2010 board meeting.  Tryouts for the team are November 19, 2010.  Comm. Murray asked if this item was being postponed because of perhaps not supporting this program.  Comm. Sodemann it was too late to think about not participating in this program for the 2010-11 school year.  The board may want to consider participation for the 2011-12 season at a future meeting.  The motion failed on a 1-7 vote with Comm. P. Severson voting in the affirmative.  Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, Sheridan and Sodemann voted in opposition. 

            Comm. Sheridan moved, seconded by Comm. Murray to approve the Girls Hockey Cooperative Agreement.  Comm. Hesselbacher said she had asked for updated information on the cost per participant for sports.  She felt this is something the board should start talking about for next year.  The motion carried on a 7-1 vote with Comms. Ardrey, Dommershausen, Hesselbacher, Murray, D. Severson, Sheridan and Sodemann voting in the affirmative.  Comm. P. Severson voted in opposition.

Buildings and Grounds Committee Report.  b.  Review of Craig High School noise situation and possible action.  Mr. Pennington gave a brief overview of the situation.  Since the Buildings and Grounds meeting on September 20, 2010, he has asked Mr. Eichman to look into possible solutions.  Mr. Pennington said he would report back to the committee with proposals. 

            Comm. Ardrey said he has visited the site and heard the noise.  He thought the noise level was about 90 decibels on his visit.  He said he did not feel anyone did anything wrong, it was just an architectural situation of not looking at the dynamics of the situation.  Comm. Ardrey said North American Mechanical, Inc. has already installed some sound reduction barriers, but they are not high enough on the chilling tower.  He said the consensus of the committee was to recommend moving forward to address this problem with a capped cost of $145,000.  Comm. Ardrey moved, seconded by Comm. D. Severson, to spend not more than $145,000 to correct the noise situation at Craig High School with the exact methods to be determined.  Comm. Sheridan said to check some of the solutions suggested by Gazette bloggers as she felt some might have merit.  Comm. P. Severson asked if the district could get some relief from the architect or general contractor on mitigating this problem.  Mr. Pennington said that could be explored.  Comm. Sodemann offered a friendly amendment to the motion which was accepted.  The motion now reads:  To spend not more than $145,000 to correct the noise situation at Craig High School and to seek partial or full reimbursement from the general contractor or the architect.  The motion carried on an 8-0 vote.

            a.  Review of 2009-10 energy report.  Comm. Ardrey said Jerry Tinberg, representative from NAMI, presented an energy report on the electrical and gas usage at all of the schools for the past year.  Comm. Ardrey said areas for improvement were pointed out.  However, the largest opportunities to save will be on expensive items.  He said Franklin Middle School has an old steam-driven heating system.  He felt this would be a good time to potentially consider green solutions when making such large item changes.  He also felt there might also be some control changes that could be made to save energy at the other schools. 

            c.  Update on school energy program.  Comm. Ardrey said there will be a contest between each of the schools to start reducing their energy usage.  Mr. Pennington said the idea for the contest came from Comm. Sheridan and will begin on October 1.  The amount of therms and kilowatt hours will be measured against prior year’s use.  Schools that meet or exceed the board goal of 5 percent energy reduction will be recognized.  Each quarter the school that has achieved the greatest reduction will receive a reward.  Mr. Pennington said they plan to expand the program to student participation in this energy saving effort.

            d.  Update on district energy review.  Comm. Ardrey said both the board and superintendent have the goal of reducing energy use by 5 percent.  He felt the district should develop district-wide energy policies that govern all schools in the district.  He felt this would dovetail into to the self-assessment with Focus on Energy.  Comm. Ardrey said Focus on Energy will be working with the district to conduct an “energy audit.”  The district may be eligible for rebates.  Mr. Pennington said the focus will be on gas usage at Franklin Middle School; electric usage at Kennedy Elementary School; both electric and gas usage at Lincoln Elementary School; and energy usage at all five secondary swimming pools.  Comm. P. Severson asked if employees, students, citizens could use the Idea Express to submit energy saving ideas.  Dr. Schulte said that was a great idea.  President Sodemann asked if someone could check into the cold temperature in one of the biology rooms at Parker High School.

What’s Right in Education/Dashboard.  Dr. Schulte said schools are sending in good news items.  She highlighted kudos to Deb Mundth for great customer service with classroom technology, Angel Tullar for producing requested documents during negotiations, Steve Schlomann for his fine leadership of the instructional technology department, and the school crossing guards for their help in getting children across busy streets safely.  The Standard of Professional Behavior that is being promoted for September and October is Respect for others’ thoughts and opinions.  Dr. Schulte said board members will be re-signing the standards at next month’s board meeting.

Report on Major Information Technology Projects Completed During Summer 2010.  Steve Schlomann, Manager of Information Systems, thanked everyone for the kind comments, but felt the whole department was responsible for the increase in performance.  Mr. Schlomann reviewed the completed or in-process projects.  He said network switches have been installed; the switch to the BadgerNet fiber optic WAN network has increased speed; eight schools now have wireless access and the remainder will have it by December; the Craig High School science upgrades now provide a computer at each workstation; the middle school LMC labs have received multi-media upgrades; Franklin and Marshall middle schools have received mobile lab upgrades; the LMC remodeling has been completed at Edison Middle School; I-Pod Touches and Netbooks have been added (Washington now has three mobile labs); printer/toner restructuring with no cost printer leases will save the district $45,000; and Adams has a voice amplification system.  President Sodemann asked Mr. Schlomann and Dr. Ehrhardt to look at the possibility of moving towards having textbooks on line. 

            Mr. Schlomann said the following projects have been delayed or are on hold due to budget constraints.  The district is waiting for the Skyward on-line fee payment system to be released; streaming video servers; additional server disk storage needs; and server performance upgrades because the elementary schools will be putting report cards on Skyward. 

            Projects that have been cancelled or stopped are:  the agreement with Just 5 Clicks has been terminated due to software development issues and OASYS will pick up those functions; telephone upgrades; Roosevelt lab wiring; SMART boards; UPS replacements; teacher/administrator upgrades; Net TV upgrades and CATV upgrades.  Comm. P. Severson asked if the district had the capability to do distance learning between Craig and Parker so they could perhaps share a teacher.  Mr. Schlomann said the district does not have video conferencing capabilities yet.

Report on Athletic Budget.  Mr. Pennington said the board asked administration to reduce the athletic budget by $80,000.  A committee of high school and middle school athletic directors, and high school principals made cuts to many areas.  Mr. Pennington said all members had a voice in the cuts that were made.  Mr. Pennington said the 2010-11 athletic budget has a projected revenue of $234,000 and projected expenditures of $1,340,942.  While revenue is projected to decrease $26,000 over 2009-10, expenditures are expected to decrease by $87,000.  This is the second year the athletic budget has been cut.  President Sodemann asked where the income from the concession stands goes.  Mr. Sperry said it goes back to the booster club that is running that stand.

Presentation of Detailed 2010-11 Proposed District Budget Book.  A 124-page detailed budget book was distributed to board members.  Mr. Pennington recapped the 2010-11 budget preparation process to date.  The board directed staff to hold the tax levy increase to 4 percent and cut technology by 40 percent, maintenance by 10 percent and athletics by $80,000.  Mr. Pennington recommended that board members read some of the narrative summaries to help explain the expenses and fluctuations from year to year.  Since the last budget presentation, a contract settlement has been reached and ratified with the JEA resulting in $900,000 being added to the 2010-11 budget.  The anticipated 15 percent increase in health insurance and prescription drug costs added another $900,000.  The $1.8 million the district received from the federal Jobs Education Funding Act was used to cover some of the shortfall, including furlough days, prior to the above items being finalized.  The board also approved using up to $410,000 as an initial WRS down payment.  Other cuts to the budget include:  information technology reduction of $1,396,152, maintenance and capital item reduction of $706,000, shifts to AARA federal stimulus funding of $145,453; building allocation reduction of $400,000, and other reductions of $337,816.  Mr. Pennington said the recent Third Friday Count will not affect the previously proposed revenue amounts.

            Open items in the 2010-11 operating budget are the Local 938 Maintenance/Custodian/ Food Service contract, the Local 938 Secretary/Clerk/Aide contract and the general state aid revenue.  Mr. Pennington said staff used a conservative approach to setting the budget using the guidelines set forth by the board.  The proposed 2010-11 district budget anticipates total revenue of $114,307,139 and total expenditures of $115,966,378 resulting in a shortfall of $1,659,239. 

            Mr. Pennington suggested the following ways to deal with the shortfall.  One, the board can make additional budget cuts.  He said $5.2 million has already been cut or shifted to grants since March 2010.  Two, the board could increase the tax levy.  The proposed levy is $3.2 million below the maximum amount available.  This means the district has underlevied by $6.602 million over the past three fiscal years.  Mr. Pennington stated that $1,000,000 of the shortfall could be eliminated by raising the tax levy an additional 4 percent.  Third, the board could use some of the unreserved and undesignated fund balance reserves for a one-time expenditure.  The board policies regarding the needed reserve percentages could be changed or temporarily revised for this fiscal year.

            Comm. Sheridan asked if a change in the fund balance policies could change the district’s bond rating.  Mr. Pennington said it could have some effect, but not an overall bad effect.  Comm. Murray asked when the board would know if the 2009-10 fiscal year was over or under budget.  Mr. Pennington said not until the auditors finish their audit in November.  Unofficially, he thought the district was $323,000 over budget for 2009-10, but $300,000 of that was for the board approved WRS payment last year.  Comm. Murray asked how much interest was earned on the Fund 10 last year.  Mr. Pennington said $67,000.  Comm. Hesselbacher asked for a cost per participant for sports.  She also said the co-curricular budget was listed as $177,000.  She would like a general estimate of the number of students participating in co-curricular activities.  Comm. D. Severson asked about the tax rate per $1,000 of equalized value.  He said the taxpayers would see the school portion of their property taxes listed as a 9.9 percent increase.  President Sodemann talked about the use of the Fund 10 balance to help pay for the JEA contract settlement.  He did not think this would be a one-time use because the money would be added to the teachers’ base salary.  He asked administration to find future cuts so the district does not violate the Fund 10 management policy.  Comm. Sodemann said he would like to see how administration plans to reimburse the Fund 10 prior to voting on the 2010-11 budget.  Comm. D. Severson asked Mr. Pennington to look into the impact of property values on the tax levy.  Comm. D. Severson felt the board should begin work on the 2011-12 budget within the next few weeks.