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The Neshaminy Board of School Directors
met in public session on April 10, 2002 in the Board Room of the District
Offices, Maple Point Middle School. The
following persons were in attendance:
1. Call to Order Mr.
Schoenstadt called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. 2. Pledge of
Allegiance Mr.
Schoenstadt requested those in attendance join in the salute to the flag. Mr. Schoenstadt announced that before any agenda items would be discussed several items would be expounded upon regarding this evening and the next sixty days. The Administration has prepared a budget
that they feel is their best wish list. It
represents what their thorough analysis has developed and it was brought to the
Finance Committee of the Board of School Directors two weeks ago. At that
committee meeting the three board members which are part of the committee
reviewed same, and advised that this was sufficient information to begin to
start the budget process and bring it to the attention of the full board.
The full board can analyze the budget in great detail and determine
where, if any cuts have to be made, and what the final budget will be
representing as far as the revenue and expenditure items for the district.
This meeting is, in fact, a meeting of the full board to start that
analysis and determine what the final budget will contain. Mr.
Schoenstadt inquired if anyone had read the newspaper.
Mr. Schoenstadt further inquired whether anyone believed that the
information in the newspaper was an accurate representation of what in fact took
place prior to today�s meeting. The
fact is that no decisions have been reviewed by this Board. That was one
misstatement by the press. The
point is you can only believe what you read is fact, after in fact, it is part
of the process of the public and open meetings held by this Board.
There has been no discussion of areas for cuts, there has been no
discussion of what the final budget looks like or will look like.
That is the process we are starting today.
Mr. Schoenstadt wanted everyone to understand the panic that was
published in the press represented some accurate information, but a great deal
of misinformation. What is going to
occur from tonight on represents the conscientious decision process of the full
Board, nine members of the school district, that you elected to represent you in
this process. Mr. Schoenstadt advised that the members of the audience present
would be part of the process. The
audience will hear everything that the Board hears. Mrs.
Drioli advised that she also saw the headline in the newspaper and almost had a
heart attack, until she realized that she is part of that process, and she would
not vote for anything like that. The
information was acquired approximately two or three weeks ago at a finance
committee meeting where a discussion took place at great length regarding the
various processes that could be taken in an effort to cut the budget, and if
left untouched, a $400 increase would result.
At that meeting a representative from the Courier Times was present and
it is absolutely their right to be there. Mrs.
Drioli advised that is a good thing. However, the word that should come out of the committee
meeting is that we are taking this to the Board for recommendation.
A committee meeting is just that, discussions, getting facts, learning,
making comments. These comments are
not factual. None of the Board
members have seen this budget, so if anyone thinks a Board member has made a
judgment to raise taxes $400 it is absolutely out of line and so is the Courier.
The Courier is serving no one but themselves.
The Courier is resorting to tabloid reporting.
They had that information two weeks ago, which could have been released
two days after the meeting. They
chose to release that information two days prior to this meeting in an effort to
�stir the pot� between the community, and take precious time away from this
Board in an effort to conscientiously prepare for you a number that would be
more reasonably acceptable. Mrs.
Drioli advised that to say your taxes are not going to rise would be a lie. But, to tell the public that taxes will be going up $400, she
can say that it will not happen with this Board.
To have a newspaper which is supposed to be serving the public and
community and hence has done nothing but serve itself because it is their effort
to try to get another headline for tomorrow�s paper is wrong.
Mrs. Drioli advised that her husband is on a fixed income and she also
cannot sustain a $400 increase. Mrs.
Drioli will not accept it, and she has not heard that from any Board member that
it is acceptable. Mrs. Drioli stated that she wished the Courier Times were present at this time and she is very angry at the irresponsibility of the Courier in this situation, and she does believe the public has a right to know and have input. Mrs.
Drioli further advised that she was in support of the Tech School accepting,
once again on the same basis as they did before, the special education students. Mrs. Butville advised that tonight we as a Board have not seen the budget. Tonight is the first time the Board will see the budget, so no recommendations can be made until this evenings meeting and thereafter. Mrs. Butville also requested that since the Courier is not here if the Board Secretary would be willing to write up these first minutes of this meeting and be sure the Courier reporter receives them. 3. Public Comment There was a two-minute time limit per speaker. Mr. Barry Cardonet, Langhorne, a retired teacher of thirty-four years and a retired union official in Philadelphia stated he stood on picket lines in the seventies and got arrested and came to Neshaminy in the seventies to help build Neshaminy’s teacher union. When the public employees union and teacher’s union and the state legislators got their well deserved pension increase in 2000, they neglected to put any retired teachers in that increase. One has not occurred in four years. Many people have had very small increases over many years and they are the ones, hundreds maybe thousands of people in this district, that you will be asking to tax when they could have gotten some of that deal in the year 2000. Not a penny was gotten. Again, Mr. Cardonet advised that he worked for the union and ran a twenty million dollar health and welfare fund in the eighties. A cost savings plan had to be put into effect due to the fact that the costs of prescriptions went up astronomically, and there were not enough contributions from the school board. Savings had to be shifted during that time. He realized that he would never be able to retire on a teacher’s pension, so he became a CPA and attorney. Mr. Cardonet advised that he can read a union contract and he knows what goes into it, what cost savings are and he will volunteer at no cost to offer his services. Mr. Cardonet agreed that newspapers are notoriously erroneous, but image if it did come out that way that a retired union person, who went to jail for the union, could be roused to ire. Imagine how your other residents would feel if this came in, impacting all at once, because of the fact that people from the PSERS gave $285 million dollars to consultants and $l6 billion dollars over the last couple of years and then passed the bill onto the Board which will then be passed on to the taxpayer. Mr.
Cardonet again advised that his services were for free. Mr.
Clem Piscetelli, Langhorne, advised it was incumbent upon the Board, at least
the President, to take the newspaper to task, and write a letter to the editor
or have another headline on the front page.
It is incumbent upon the Board, don’t ask the secretary to write a
letter, don’t ask the administration to write a letter, the School Board
President, should be writing a letter asking for an interview, getting his
picture in the paper and tell the taxpayer it was not the correct information. Mr.
Herb Hoelzle, Feasterville, stated that whenever a budget happens with him, he
gauges his budget by the raise he receives which is two to three percent per
year. He needs to cut and is sure
that the Board will have to cut. You
cannot expect to raise five or ten percent without looking at cuts first.
Mr. Hoelzle urged the Board members to consider adopting a policy of
eliminating school taxes and going to a wage tax.
Mr. Hoelze advised that he would be retired in two or three years.
His neighbors make three times his salary and maybe five times his salary
by the time he retires. The
percentage that he pays, as a retired person is ridiculous compared to his
neighbors. It is not fair to the
senior citizens in this district to pay such an exorbitant rate.
When they are forced to leave because they cannot afford to pay their
taxes, what happens, a young family comes in with more children, and then the
taxes will rise even more. In order
to save taxes and cut costs you should try to keep the people who have no
children in the district to keep the costs down, and also consider, just
increasing a couple children per classroom, not always decreasing where you are
going to have twenty to a class. Other
private schools have forty and fifty in a class and they educate their children.
Mr. Hoelzle is not saying to have forty or fifty, but why not twenty-five
or twenty-six. Teachers could be
asked to take voluntary early retirement. Not
hire so many people, cut costs. Possibly
have a carnival to raise funds for things that are not for education. Mr.
Solis Basen, Langhorne, recommended to the Board to consider doing what
corporate America does. In the last
couple years all the large companies have cut their payrolls, asked their
suppliers to knock down ten percent of their costs and have gone to other means.
Cutting the budget in this way would help tremendously. Mr.
Mike Morris, Langhorne, moved to the County approximately two years ago, has
three children, and read the article in the newspaper.
Not certain how much truth was in the paper, but he realizes that there
is a concern as far as Neshaminy School District and the pension.
His concern is what does Enron have to do with this budget plan. Ms.
Elaine Kelly, Langhorne, advised that her main concern was how the taxes going
up would affect everyone. She got a
two percent raise yesterday and raising her taxes would be bad.
Her health insurance costs have gone up in January.
Ms. Kelly advised that she is worried, since no one is putting any money
back into her pension fund. She
understands the taxes need to go up, but she does not have any children and, she
knows a lot of people who do not have any children, who are paying for something
they are not using. Mr.
Joe Beando, Langhorne, moved to Flowers Mills from Staten Island approximately
one year ago. His taxes in New York
City were $l600. He had a business
in Manhattan. When he was younger
he asked his boss for a raise. Mr. Beando was never denied a raise, so when he
hears about what unions get for their people he is concerned.
He does not have a pension, but is lucky he was able to derive a profit
from the house he sold in Staten Island. The
figures that he negotiated for his house have changed tremendously.
If he did not have the Veteran’s Administration to go to for his
medication he would not be able to afford the medicine.
Mr. Beando stated that when he hears people wanting an addition to their
pension when he does not have anything, only depending on social security, how
will a tax increase effect him. Mr.
Ted Stephis, lives in Neshaminy School District, living in Bucks County for 32
years. Many people are pointing out
they are having a hard time. Taxes
in this particular school district and districts around us are out of sight and
they are going higher and higher. There
is no incentive for the school administrators to reduce costs.
They have a pot that is never ending.
He is very bothered by an area like Levittown where you see check cashing
facilities. This tells him that the economy of this community has
declined dramatically in the amount of money that is brought into the community
by the people who work here. There
are many people in the service industries that years ago people could afford,
now they cannot. The Board needs to
start looking to cut the budget, not in the education area, by at least ten
percent. The Board owes it to the
community. Mr.
Mark Dickler, Langhorne, resident of Flowers Mill went to Doylestown last week
and attended the meeting between the school superintendents and the state
legislators. The legislators were
very eloquent in their presentation. They
stated “there just is not enough money and get used to it.”
There is an $800 million dollar shortfall.
The truth of the matter is most of us are in that same situation, and for
once he would like to see the Board turn around and find ways without disturbing
what goes on directly in the classroom. The
Board needs to pull the belt in like everyone else in the country is doing. You
can offer the same grade of education without taking the arbitrary increase that
has become accustomed to happen every year. Ms.
Elaine Kelly advised that she went to Bishop Conwell and there was no air
conditioning and students never had half the amenities that the children have
today. She realizes the schools are
bigger and more computers are necessary, but little things that could save are
available. Mr.
Cardonet stated that the newspaper seemed to indicate that the budget problem is
directly related to the retirement increase that was passed on to the district. Mr.
Schoenstadt stated that was one of the gross misrepresentations made by the
Courier and if you stay for the presentation you will see very clearly where
everything falls, and there is just not one area.
There are multiple problems and the state’s mishandling of the pension
fund is only one part of the problem. Mrs.
Drioli stated that this Board, prior to this point, actually has taken a very
aggressive stand and took on a very difficult decision to close a school.
That was not an easy process for the Board and was done in an effort to
be fiscally responsible to this community.
Mrs. Drioli also pointed out that not every school in the district is
air-conditioned. Sometimes when a
building is renovated a building is more cost effective.
To suggest that things are “running rampant” is difficult to accept. Mrs.
Drioli left the meeting at 7:30 p.m. 4. Announcements Dr.
Bowman advised that Neshaminy School District in the past had a Neshaminy
Scholarship Fund, and there was a Board of Trustees which dates back well over
thirty years. That group of people
had a program where they raised money and they made loans to students who wanted
to go to college. The understanding
was that when they graduated from college they would repay the loan.
As time went on many students took advantage of the loan and about the
last l0-l5 years the scholarship program has been very inactive.
Students were obtaining other loans and students were repaying the loans,
but some were not. Dr. Bowman
advised that the Board recently appointed twelve members of the Board of
Directors of the Scholarship Fund. Neshaminy also has a very active Neshaminy
Education Foundation, which was recently started.
Mr. Dengler is a member of that foundation.
Members of the Scholarship Fund directed that all the outstanding money
be collected, which is not school district funds, but money which was raised
elsewhere. It would cost more money
then what was available to collect. Therefore,
the Board of Directors met recently and they elected to close the scholarship
fund, because they could not compete with all the other scholarships available.
A decision was made to turn approximately $l7,000 over to the Neshaminy
Education Foundation under the clear direction that the Foundation would use
this money to support educational programs and services in the district only on
an annual basis, dependent upon the interest that the money earns.
The $l7,000 will continue forever. Dr.
Bowman asked that Mr. Clem Piscetelli, former school board member and active
member of the community, present $l7,890.00 to the Neshaminy Education
Foundation. Accepting on behalf of
the Neshaminy Education Foundation was Board member, Mr. Harry Dengler. Mr. Piscetelli advised that the Neshaminy Scholarship Fund consisted of a twelve-member committee. Unfortunately, ten members went by the wayside. According to the By-laws ten new members were appointed and there was a vote to disband the Scholarship Fund since approximately $55,500 was loaned out to various students, which was never collected. A check to the Neshaminy Education Foundation in the amount of $l7,890.l6 was presented to Mr. Harry Dengler on behalf of the Neshaminy Education Foundation. Mr. Schoenstadt wanted to
recognize that Dr. Bowman, the Superintendent, is a non-voting member Mr. Schoenstadt presented
Dr. Bowman and Mr. Dengler with their pins and thanked them for
their service. 5. Item for Approval
– Carolyn Baldwin Memorial Scholarship Fund Dr.
Bowman advised that a wonderful teacher at the Pearl Buck Elementary School,
Carolyn Baldwin, recently passed away and her family decided they would like to
provide a scholarship in memory of Carolyn.
The family will make an initial contribution of Two Thousand ($2,000)
Dollars and they will continue to make an annual contribution of Two Thousand
($2,000) Dollars per year for four years to be received by a student graduating
from Neshaminy High School who will pursue a career in the teaching profession
at the elementary level. The
district will manage the scholarship fund and the scholarship was worked out
under the guidance of the school solicitor’s office. Mr.
Mecleary presented the following motion: WHEREAS,
Carolyn Baldwin was a kindergarten teacher in the Pearl Buck Elementary School
of the Neshaminy School District. Most
of her professional life was spent teaching at the early childhood level where
she was a loving, enthusiastic, dynamic teacher who was dedicated to her craft
and dedicated to her children; and WHEREAS,
Joseph Baldwin, Carolyn Baldwin’s husband, wishes to create the Carolyn
Baldwin Memorial Scholarship Fund to be awarded to a senior graduating from the
Neshaminy High School, who will pursue a career in the teaching profession at
the elementary level; and WHEREAS,
Mr. Baldwin is making an initial contribution of $2,000 to the scholarship fund.
In accordance with an agreement between Joseph Baldwin and the Neshaminy
School District, Mr. Baldwin will make additional contributions necessary to
fund the annual award of a scholarship of $2,000 per year for a term of 4 years,
provided the student meets the criteria set forth in the agreement. NOW,
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, in accordance with Section 2l6 of the Public School
Code, I move that the Board of School Directors accept the contribution being
made by Mr. Baldwin for the creation of a scholarship fund, subject to the
conditions established in the agreement between Neshaminy School District and
Mr. Baldwin for the admission of said scholarship fund. Mrs. Butville
seconded the motion. The Board
unanimously approved the motion. Ms.
Drioli was not present. 6. Items for
Discussion a.
Bucks County Technical High
School Admissions/Criteria Dr. Bowman
introduced Mr. Lamar Snyder, Mr. Steve Butz and Mrs. Connie Rinker from the Tech
School to provide a presentation to the Board regarding the topic of admissions
and criteria for the Tech School, the process of admissions and what does the
data state specifically regarding Neshaminy School District. Mr. Lamar
Snyder was delighted to be able to come and provide information regarding the
Tech School. Mr. Snyder introduced
Mrs. Rinker, Building Principal at the Technical School. Mrs. Rinker provided background on how the application process was derived. In l999 three documents had been adopted: · Strategic Plan – approved by the Joint School Board in which an action team was created which stated that there needed to be an improvement in the image of the school · New School Committee was created to look at change agents that would be used to create that change – High Schools That Work which is out of the Southern Region Education Board in Atlanta which states that Technical High Schools need to offer the same rigorous course work, college prep and academics as high schools offer. ·
Industry and business in the community
asking that we create students to be more marketable in their respective fields Mrs. Rinker distributed a copy of the Application that was created collaboratively with the six superintendents, six high school principals and the six secondary supervisors. Several things are looked at: · Students are asked to complete information on the application · Essay is required asking the student to provide why they wish to attend Tech School · Two years report cards are required (continuity and consistency) ·
Guidance counselors are asked to complete
attendance, discipline, IEP, 504 Plan or any other special ·
Teacher recommendation Mrs.
Rinker advised that three designated times (Tuesday and Thursday night, and
Saturday morning) are provided when parents and students come to Tech together
to receive an application. Questions
can be answered. Parents and
students can make the decision together to go to Tech.
After the three designated times twenty-five applications are forwarded
to the high school and middle schools. The
students return same on a first come, first serve basis.
The Tech School receives the applications and they are stamped with the
date and time. Mrs. Rinker
distributed for the Board’s review a Rubrik sheet that was designed to a
“C” student. This Rubrik
clarifies any misunderstanding in terms of whether or not the Tech School
accepts special education students, students that are failing and can they be
accepted. The goal is to achieve 75 points on this document and meet
the deadlines then there is no issue. If
the student falls below the 75 points and are in a gray area (65-75) we offer
each district an appeals opportunity. Additional
information can be shared about a student.
Two representatives per child are allowed to appeal and Dr. Betty Kurlick
from Bucks County Community College participates in those appeals and she is a
non-biased party. Dr. Kurlick has served as a probation officer, Dean of
Admission of Bucks County Community College and she has a law degree. Mrs.
Rinker advised that the program is designed to be an inclusion model. The Tech School does not offer learning support classes.
Over 320 students have IEP’s that is the highest percentage of any high
school in the six sending districts. Thirty
percent of the population is special education. Mr. Butz
distributed an overview of the application process in respect to all the sending
districts and also one specific to Neshaminy.
Mr. Butz advised that the Tech School accepts slightly more then 400
students in the course of the year. The
total number of acceptances to date is 340-350 students. From Neshaminy School District the total ninth grade
applications received were l25 total applications and accepted were 75 incoming
ninth grade students, 29 students applied for grades l0, 11 or l2.
All of those students are on a waiting list.
The Tech School is at capacity in the 9th and 10th
grade. It is expected that some
room for additional students will be available.
The application process is ongoing. Mr.
Schoenstadt inquired as to the Neshaminy quota allocated in the formula, how
many seats are unfilled. Mr. Butz
replied that this year Neshaminy has an allotment of 9l or 95 students. Currently, Neshaminy has 75 students enrolled and
applications are still being received and they will be considered up through the
end of April, and at that point it goes to open enrollment based upon the
Articles of Agreement. Mr. Butz
advised that the critical point is that the Tech School is full in 9th
and 10th grade this year. All
the popular programs, cosmetology, technology, computer electronics are filled. Mr.
Schoenstadt commented that under no circumstances does the Tech School react to
the admissions request by increasing staff regardless of whether you fill the
requirement. At that point every
seat needs to be arbitrated since they are gone. Mr.
Snyder stated that the students are encouraged to make application in the 9th
grade. When the Tech School goes to
open enrollment on May 1st the seats that are not utilized by
Neshaminy are open enrollment to any school district. In the technical area you cannot exceed twenty-five students
per teacher for safety issues. In
September a new technical program will be opened.
Mr. Snyder stated that in the 9th grade the student goes
through an exploratory program and the
Mr. Eccles made an inquiry regarding the 29 students on the waiting list.
Mr. Butz advised that on May 15th
Mr. Schoenstadt had a concern that if the student missed the 9th
grade acceptance the student has little or no chance based on the popularity and
acceptance of the programs, and the filling of those programs by other
districts, Neshaminy will be responsible to create courses at Neshaminy. In some
cases duplicating what the Tech School does.
Mr. Schoenstadt advised that does not seem to be the original purpose of
creating a full time technical high school.
That was not what was envisioned twenty-five years ago.
Mr. Schoenstadt stated that the special education students are impacted
the most. Mr. Snyder commented that
the Tech School is serving thirty percent special education.
Mr. Mecleary advised that the percentage of Neshaminy special education
students is about 42% at the Technical School.
Mr. Snyder stated that if the Technical School were to accept more
students, even on the academic side, classrooms would need to be added, as well
as teachers. The Tech School has
come to the point next year where it will be at maximum capacity.
Dr. Bowman commented that when the new four year comprehensive technical
high school opened all the districts had a certain number allocated.
One of the unique things in Neshaminy is that there is a middle school
program that goes 6th, 7th, 8th and 9th
grade. Middle school students would
like to complete the middle school program in our district, and then apply to
the Tech School for 10th grade.
The first year the seats were not filled and those seats were made
available to other 9th graders that wanted to attend. Dr. Bowman advised that the good news is that this year our
Technical School budget is down $1 million dollars, because fewer students took
advantage. The bad news is that as
the 10th and 11th graders want to enroll there are no
seats.
Mr. Snyder advised that when the Tech School visits the middle schools
they advise students that we know you like it at the middle school; however, if
you really have an interest in the technical school you must begin in the 9th
grade. Parents are also advised of this importance at the open house
at the Tech School.
Mrs. Rinker stated that there were over 700 applicants for 400 spots.
Dr. Bowman inquired how the final decision is made during an appeal
process. Mrs. Rinker advised that
the Assistant Director and a Guidance Counselor are the Tech representatives and
they are non-partisan, since they are looking at the application, listening to
the data fresh. That is when Dr. Betty Kulick from Bucks County Community
College also participates. A vote
is taken after all data is reviewed.
Mr. Snyder advised that the number of students accepted from Neshaminy is
similar to Pennsbury and Bensalem. Bristol
Township has a substantially different issue because of the wait list, and
Neshaminy staff chose to appeal a substantial number of students.
Mrs. Butville questioned that if a Neshaminy student moves after 10th
grade, does the Neshaminy spot that is vacated go to a Neshaminy student,
therefore, obtaining first preference. Mr.
Snyder replied that it would be given to a Neshaminy student.
Mrs. Rinker noted that it is attempted to minimize movement during the
course of the school year. The six
principals from the participating high schools meet monthly to discuss various
topics.
Dr. Spitz inquired as to how important is the essay which is required by
students when enrolling at Tech. Mrs.
Rinker stated that it is done since it helps give us an idea of the students
writing ability and also the placement test, which has nothing to do with being
accepted. The essay, however, does play a role in acceptance.
Mrs. Rinker stated that there is much to learn about a student from the
essay.
Dr. Spitz suggested that a student with an IEP in English might have
difficulty with a three hundred-word essay and its puts a higher burden on that
student. Mrs. Jowett and Dr. Spritz
stated that the essay is very intimidating.
Dr. Bowman stated that the PSSA test now includes writing components and
maybe that information could be used to learn something about the student
without asking them to write the three hundred-word essay.
Mrs. Butville stated that Neshaminy has a writing center where students
can go to receive help in writing essays, job interviews, homework, etc. Mrs. Rinker stated that the emphasis on the essay is for the student to tell the Tech School about themselves.
Mr. Mecleary commented to the Board that the Tech budget contribution is
approximately half of what was spent last year, based on the enrollment.
Dr. Bowman stated that the joint boards and the administration at the
Tech School has put together one of the finest Technical High Schools in the
Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and we are struggling to have more students attend,
and there is only so much room. The
good news is that we have quality and it is a wonderful problem to have.
Mr. Snyder stated that the Tech School is the topic of conversation
across the United States at the present time.
Mr. Eccles stated that he has had the opportunity to tour the school and
he is very proud to be associated with the school, and the Board members who
have not had the opportunity to tour the school should do so.
Mr. Schoenstadt thanked Mr. Snyder, Mr. Butz and Mrs. Rinker for making
the information available to the Board. b.
2002- 2003 Working Draft of
Budget Dr.
Bowman stated that the budget document that the Board will receive represents
the work that was started back in October, 200l.
Neshaminy is one of the largest employers in the County and services
approximately ten thousand students. This
budget document this evening is a starting point.
Dr. Bowman advised that the Courier Times wrote an article with headlines
“$400 Tax Increase Forecast” and the comment from the Superintendent was as
follows: “Superintendent Gary Bowman said the draft budget proposal which will
be presented tomorrow night is totally unacceptable.”
By law we need to bring a budget to the Board at this time of the year
and the Board has not seen this budget to date.
The Board will begin their work this evening by getting the information. The Courier article is a result of the Finance Committee
meeting that was held recently at the High School and Mr. Paradise provided an
overview to the Finance Committee. Dr.
Bowman further advised that no one is happy with this, including the
administration. Mr. Paradise will
present options to the Board to consider. Neshaminy
is in the same position as other school districts and the legislators are
looking for some type of relief. Dr. Bowman advised that $3 million dollars has already been
removed from the budget. Mr. Paradise advised that there are options to be taken. Actually $3.7 million dollars in cuts have already been taken to get to this point. Things to be reviewed this evening: · Why is the working draft budget so bad? · What kind of Standard Increases are we looking at · Human Resources · Special Education & other State mandates · Can we delay some expenses? · Can we reduce some expenses? ·
What other options are available to the
Board? Mr. Paradise reviewed why is it so different for schools. · The vast majority of our income is based on real estate taxes (a stagnant tax base) · Therefore, schools must get more income by raising the tax rate · The state, for example, gets the vast majority of its income from sales and personal income taxes (growing tax bases) · Each year the taxpayer pays more · As income rises, more income tax is deducted from their payments ·
As prices rise, more sales tax is paid Mr.
Paradise noted that schools are people. Eighty
percent of the organization is people, unlike municipal and state governments
that provide other services. Anything
associated with a people cost will dramatically affect the budget. Mr.
Paradise advised that all the costs associated with Tawanka School as an
elementary school have been removed from this budget.
This is a savings in this current budget document.
At the same time the Board made a decision to open an alternative school
in the existing Tawanka Educational Center.
Human Resources and other costs have been added to the budget to pay for
that alternative school. However,
it has been offset since we are no longer contracting for some of the services. Mr. Paradise advised that the events of September 11, 200l, have dramatically affected this budget · Higher priced insurances of all kinds · General economic decline · Reduced business tax revenues · Dramatically lowered interest rates · PSERS – retirement fund costs · Most state governments in deficit ·
Federal Government in deficit Mr. Paradise advised of some of the cost increases: · 2.75% certified staff (plus step) · 3.5% support staff · l4% projected increase in health insurance premiums · Similar coverage $l,7l3,000 · $3l4,000 for higher social security taxes on employer ·
Dramatic increase in state retirement system
payments Mr. Paradise further advised that there is a loss of interest income: · July 2000 - 6.2% · February 200l – 5.4% · July 200l – 3.7% ·
February 2002 – l.8% Mr.
Paradise advised that last year interest rates earned $2.4 million dollars that
equates to l5 mills of tax. This
year it reduced to $l.5 million and indeed because the rates have continued to
drop we will only earn $l.2 million. Next
year only $900,000 at average 2.5% investment rate. This equates to an increase
of taxes by 8 mills alone. Dr.
Spitz noted that this year we earned $l.2 million and next year $900,000 which
is a difference of $300,000 which does not equate to 8 mills.
Mr. Paradise advised that the loss of revenue from $2.4 million to
$900,000 accounts for 8 mills. Mr.
Paradise advised that the PSERS Employer Contribution Rate History has
dramatically declined. The state
has now said it is way to low and it must be increased. Hopefully, the Board will adopt a motion to attempt to have
the state stabilize the rate. The
Retirement System rate is going up to the same rate it was in l998 and l999.
At the same time employee’s rates have gone up. Mr. Paradise discussed Expenditure Reductions: · Comprehensive Technical School – decrease of $l,044,000 ·
Price of Fuel Oil and Diesel Fuel – Fixed
price for next year Mr.
Paradise stated that Special Education expenditures for 2003 will be $l7,084,000
which is an increase of $l.6 million and an l0.9% increase over the current
year. The state subsidies have not
changed at all. Indeed, the state
mandates this but only pays $5,304,000 for a program which costs the district
$l7,084,000. Dr.
Spitz inquired how the $l7,084,000 is calculated. Mr. Paradise advised that the l70 page budget document would
explain this. The purpose of the
presentation was just to give an overview.
The details can be found in the budget document. Mr. Paradise noted other cost increases are as follows: · Charter Schools – 35% increase over current year · Contracted IU Special Ed Transportation – 42% increase · Contracted Alternative Schools - $1.1 million · Debt Service Payments - $243,000 more Mr.
Paradise noted that the district pays $6.6 million in total transportation costs
and the district receives $2 million back from the state. Mr. Eccles
noted that many numbers are being shown, but we are not showing what is getting
reimbursed. Somewhere the increases
are being hidden and we need to look at real numbers. Mr. Paradise further presented the 2003 Revenues: · Local - Tax Levies - Investment Income -
Miscellaneous Sources - State - Basic Subsidies - Special Education - Specific Program Subsidies - Non-Educational Subsidies - Local Tax Sources -
State Sources – up 8.5% but only when retirement is included Mr.
Paradise advised that this is the lowest proposed Basic Education Funding
increase since l995-l996, 3rd lowest (dollars) in 22 years. Mr. Paradise not only wanted to present a problem, but also wanted to present some solutions, hence, where do we do from here? - Continuously monitor real estate assessments & business tax receipts - Monitor Federal Reserve on Investment Rates - Seek legislative relief concerning retirement costs - Work with health insurance carriers to lower costs - Review staffing changes - Elimination or reduction of programs and/or services - Consider delay of technology expenditures - Consider “swing loan” for capital projects in budget - Delay some facility improvements - Consider reducing textbook purchases - Seek to lower contracted transportation costs for Special Education students - Teacher retirements – 35 early retirements need to be built in - Continue to review use of fund balance - $3,290,000 - Consider increased use of the new alternative school to further reduce costs -
Promote tax reform in Pennsylvania Mrs. Butville inquired whether the
district is responsible for transporting its Special Education students.
Mr. Schoenstadt advised that if no transportation was provided for the
entire district then we would not have to transport Special Education students. Mr. Paradise advised that
financially the early retirees have not been accounted for at this time. Mr.
Jones advised that the cost savings per retiree would be approximately $l6,000.
Dr. Spitz commented that the average salary of the 35 people retiring is
over $80,000.00. Mr. Jones advised that most of the staff are not hired at the
first step. Most staff are
long-term subs and they are being hired at a much higher level, somewhere around
the $55,000-$56,000 range. Dr. Spitz inquired if it was part of the contract to
hire long-term subs before we hire a new person out of college.
Dr. Bowman advised that the long term subs have been teaching in the
district for a period of l/2 year to l year and the time is accumulated. Mrs. Butville inquired as to who was
actively pursuing securing tenants for the Tawanka facility. Mr. Paradise advised that the district was doing this.
Mrs. Butville thought that several tenants were interested in renting
space. Mr. Wilson advised that many
are interested but not willing to pay. Mr. Eccles stated that it was his
opinion that the closing of Tawanka was a cost saving measure.
Mr. Schoenstadt responded that it is a savings of $l.2 million. Mr. Wilson advised that a commitment
was made to the people at Tawanka that certain students would not be placed in
our alternative school. In other
words, certain students have been left in other alternative schools. Mr. Mecleary questioned whether
Special Education subsidies were still figured based on the total population of
the district as opposed to the total population of special education students
within this district. Mr.
Wilson advised that most of the support for the funding formula comes from the
smaller districts in the central part of the state that do not identify nearly
as many students. They still
receive their special education allocations based on the number of regular
education students. Some districts
actually make money, however, not anywhere in southeastern Pennsylvania. Mr. Paradise provided the Board with a brief overview of the budget document: · Page l5 – Current enrollment numbers · Page l7 – Enrollment projections for next year ·
Page 20-23 – Certified Staff and Support
Staff positions Dr. Bowman advised that the elementary declining enrollment has been looked into and a number of people needed in elementary, secondary positions were rolled into next year. The overall K-l2 enrollment and K-l2 staffing were looked at. As we proceed through April and May the staffing is fine-tuned. In May we can come back and say what we believe we need at each level. · Page 27-28 - Budget calendar · Page 30-3l – Summary of revenues · Page 32-33 – Expenditures Dr. Bowman added that on pages 32-33
we have actual audited expenditures for l999-2000 and 2000-200l and the proposed
budget for 2002-2003. Three years
of data have been supplied. Actual
l999, actual 2000, adjusted budget 200l and the proposed for next year. Mr. Mecleary left the meeting at
9:l0 p.m. Dr. Spitz inquired why the adjusted budget total $ll7.2 million was significantly different from the budget number in the last monthly report that was received. Mr. Paradise responded that federal grants are always added. Federal programs are totally excluded from the budget. Mr. Paradise advised that at the last minute prior to the motion the federal programs that we are aware of would be added on that date. The budget that is adopted this coming June cannot possibly anticipate every grant that is received during the course of the year. · Page 35 – Effect on tax millage · Page 36-37 – Charts for retirement system · Page 40 – Details local and state revenues ·
Page 55 to the end – Detailed Expenditures Mrs. Butville inquired regarding the Senior Citizen Rebate covered on page 40 and how many seniors does that include. Mr. Paradise advised that it is changing and that the rebate runs from January l through June 30. This year more seniors have applied for the program then in any year prior and the Board made a change for seniors effective this year, and more seniors have gotten a higher rebate amount then in any other year. Mr. Paradise advised that what we are budgeting is truly an estimate, because this years program, someone can apply up until the end of June. Mr. Paradise advised that we know the number of seniors in the district; however, we have no data on the income. Mr. Paradise further advised that in
the expenditures every single program that is funded by the general fund is
included. Mr. Paradise directed the Board
members to turn to page l23 Property Services, replacing the F-wing roof at
Schweitzer - $530,000, replacing the D-wing roof at Hoover for $250,000, HVAC
system at Buck - $350,000 and the boilers at Lower South - $200,000. Mr. Paradise advised that these were $l.8 million of
potential items that we could effectively cut out of the budget, but still do
and roll them over into a bond issue. Dr. Spitz inquired as to the
revenues reimbursed by the stated. Mr.
Paradise directed Dr. Spitz to page 53, Subsidies for Paid Benefits, FICA, and
Medicare. Mrs. Butville questioned Mr. Minotti
regarding guardrail repair at the High School.
Repairs are necessary due to accidents, vandalism and damage.
The damage is not always collectible due to uninsured motorist.
The only reason why guardrails exist at the High School is because the
fields were abused by people driving on them.
Guardrails were a less expensive option than the constant repair of the
grounds. Mrs. Butville inquired whether the
fuel costs were at the cheaper rate. Mr.
Paradise advised that this was indeed so. Dr. Spitz inquired whether there
would be additional revised information available for the next public board
meeting. Dr. Bowman advised that
they would be looking for direction from the Board as to their thoughts about a
“swing loan” for capital projects in the budget, purchasing text books over
a two year period, instead of paying them all off next year. At the May work session there will be a complete analysis as
to what we can take out of the budget for the 35 retirees, and other options
that can be explored. Dr. Bowman
stated that $3.2 million dollars of the Fund Balance is proposed for next
year’s proposed budget. Dr.
Bowman advised that the current Fund Balance is $7.5 million dollars.
At this point we are proposing to use $3.29 million as revenue.
Dr. Bowman advised that the general practice has been to use no more then
half so that the following year the other half is available. Mr. Eccles stated that he is looking
for a ten (l0%) percent reduction across the board.
Mr. Eccles stated that we need to look at capital improvements and a bond
issue. Mr. Paradise responded that
in order to save any substantial money ten (l0%) percent of the staff would need
to be cut. Mr. Eccles advised then
staffing needs to be looked at. Mr.
Eccles replied that a school was closed, and we are still asking the taxpayers
for the largest tax increase in ten years. Dr. Spitz advised that district wide
projections for students are down 220 students across the district, yet our
staff, including certified, administrative and support over that same two (2)
year period is up by sixteen. Mr.
Paradise responded that five are at the alternative school , the other ten are
necessary for additional special education positions, aids, teachers, which are
mandated by the state. Mr. Paradise
advised that instead of contracting staff we are hiring our own staff for the
alternative school. Mr. Schoenstadt advised that the
swing loan would be a one-year short-term loan that would be paid off by the
revenues from the bond issue. Dr. Bowman stated that the ten (l0%) percent is also not acceptable to the administration and the process will be taken line by line and also look at the big items. Can we do without that, and if cut, what are the ramifications. This budget is a huge challenge. The following need to be looked at: · Capital projects · What can be taken out and done without · Continuously look at staffing · Dialogue with legislators regarding retirement rate Mrs. Jowett inquired why testing for
radon is done. Mr. Paradise advised
that this falls under a state requirement.
Mr. Paradise stated the problem that arises if you do not adhere to
environmental issues, next thing you will have are health issues, etc. Mr. Eccles left the meeting at 9:40
p.m. Mrs. Butville asked whether the
district was looking into insurance rates.
Dr. Bowman advised that the biggest insurance cost is employee insurance,
and long term the Board may want to look into the Heintz Foundation.
Hospitals have been signing up to become part of the network.
Districts in western Pennsylvania have been joining the network which is
a self-insured insurance program. The
employees would get the same benefits but they would be self-insured. A complete analysis would be needed to see if self-insurance
would be a viable alternative for a district our size with our huge insurance
program. There was Board consensus to allow
the administration to begin investigating the IU option and the Heintz
Foundation to obtain information
regarding alternative insurance. 7. Items for Approval a. Overnight Trips Trip
information distributed for the following trips was self-explanatory: ·
Future Problem Solving Team – Neshaminy High School and Maple
Point Middle School, Harrisburg, PA, April 26 & 27, 2002 There was
Board consensus for the trip. b.
Proposed School Calendar for
2002-2003 Mr.
Wilson advised of a major change to the calendar that does not affect student
days or teacher days. The second
holiday in February would be moved to the spring recess, which enables the
students to have entire week off at Easter.
This does not extend the calendar. The Act 80 days are only seven, two of
which are on Election Day. The
final day of school would be June l8, 2002. c.
Resolution concerning
retirement rate Dr. Bowman advised that the Board expressed an interest at the last meeting that a resolution be
developed regarding the retirement rate, and if you so desire, Mr. Paradise will
put together a resolution for your approval at the Public Session at the end of
the month. There was
Board consensus for the resolution. d.
Participation in PA Joint
Purchasing Council Mr.
Paradise advised that this was a cooperative bid which contains options for
maintenance items including roofing per square foot bid work.
This is a statewide joint purchasing council bid that Neshaminy would
like to participate in. There was
Board consensus for the motion to be prepared for the next public meeting. e.
Approval of Bids/Budget
Transfers Mr.
Paradise reviewed the following bids: Bid No. 02-22 – Emergency Generator for Neshaminy High School Bus Garage Bid Amount: $22,578.00 The bid is
for one 50 Kw Emergency Power Generator for the Neshaminy High School Bus
Garage. Bid No. 02-23 Refinishing Wood Floors Bid Amount: $l7,03l.00 This bid
is for work to be done on gym floors at Neshaminy High (2), Neshaminy Middle,
Poquessing Middle, Sandburg Middle, Maple Point Middle, Everitt, and Ferderbar
Elementary Schools. Also, stage
floors at Maple Point Middle, Heckman, Hoover, Lower Southampton and Walter
Miller Elementary Schools. Bid No.
02-20 Boiler Replacement at Lower Southampton Elementary School Bid Amount: $l63,998.00 This bid is for the replacement of the original boiler. This is actually a bid with several options. Lower Bucks County School Authority is contributing $l25,000.00 to this project. This can be budgeted
for next year and it is in here now, or we can take it out of the budgetary
reserve in the current year and cut the entire amount out of next year’s
budget. The Authority would then be
closed and the remainder of the funds, approximately $5,000-$l0,000 would be
turned over to the district. There is a recommendation to do a budget transfer
out of the reserve account. Bid
No. 03-10 Medical Supplies Bid Amount: $ll,303.l0 This bid is for various supplies for school nurses and co-curricular athletics. Bid
No. 03-11 School Agendas Bid Amount: $27,246.l5 This bid is for agendas, teacher planners, lesson plans, and record charts for all secondary schools.
This comes out of the per pupil allocation.
Mrs. Butville inquired whether this could be produced in-house and Dr.
Bowman advised that it would not be possible.
Dr. Bowman stated that this impacts on how well a student does in school,
the management of time, and recording of assignments.
Dr. Bowman strongly recommends the continuation. The five
bids and one budget transfer report will be presented for approval at the April
23rd Public Meeting. 8.
Items For Information There
were no items presented. 9.
Superintendent’s Report Dr.
Bowman advised that at the public meeting there will be a presentation for the
Distinguished Budget Presentation Award. This
award is received by the school district from the Government Finance Officers
Association (GFOA). This award
represents the highest form of recognition in governmental budgeting and
represents a significant achievement by this organization. 10.
Committee Reports a. Educational Development Committee Mr.
Schoenstadt stated that with the Board’s consensus he would like to combine
the Educational Development and Technology Committees.
These members would now attend one meeting instead of two separate
meetings, since many of the issues are overlapping issues and the committee will
have more then four (4) members, however it still will only be composed to
formulate or develop ideas in order to make recommendations to the Board as a
whole. Not to make decisions.
Mr. Dengler inquired whether you would then have more then five (5)
members, and if so this would need to be conferred with the Solicitor.
Mr. Schoenstadt advised that the reason for the change would be to stay
more focused and to accomplish more in a shorter period of time. Mrs.
Butville advised that there was an Educational Development meeting prior to this
meeting and discussions took place regarding the payment of new textbooks with
no finance charges and discussions regarding sports teams acquiring adequate
playing time were held. The
committee further discussed updating the computers in the elementary level. b. Educational Foundation Mr.
Dengler reported that the foundation awarded $l5,512 in teacher grants this
month. In order to boost the sales
for the tile on the endowment wall the foundation will send letters to the
parents of every graduating senior inviting them to remember their child’s
years at Neshaminy with a plaque. c. Building Utilization/Finance Committee Minutes of
the past two meetings were distributed prior to the meeting. The next meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, April 23rd
at 6:00 p.m. Ferderbar Elementary School prior to the Public meeting at 8:00
p.m. Mr. Paradise noted that there
was a handout from BASCO and it details many of the issues that were discussed,
and everything will be discussed at the public meeting. Mr. Paradise advised that if the Board wants to stay with the
schedule of opening a school by a specific date, answers need to given if it is
in accordance with the Board’s plan. Mrs.
Butville advised that BASCO wants a decision by the April 23rd
Finance meeting to be able to move forward to meet a timetable.
Dr. Spitz inquired whether the committee has decided amongst themselves
that there is a desirous date for a school opening. Mr. Paradise advised that the architect is just trying to
keep up with the Board’s expectations. Mr.
Paradise advised that if the building is mostly new the date becomes a little
less critical then a renovation date, in a sense that if you are building mostly
new you don’t necessarily have to open the school on a specific date. Dr. Spitz
noted that given the committee has not even made any type of recommendation to
the Board as a whole, it is unrealistic to expect the Board to make a decision
about a specific option by the end of this month in order to satisfy an informal
deadline. Mr. Schoenstadt advised
that there is no deadline, even in the recommendation. It has not been discussed specifically what the completion
date target would be. Mr. Paradise advised that their perception of listening to Board members comments was that they were working towards a specific date, but if that is not the case, that is fine. They are just trying to say that if you are looking towards a certain date, we need to keep the district on schedule. Dr. Bowman inquired if the Board would like this to be an agenda item for the next work session. Mr. Schoenstadt advised that the committee needs to come back with recommendations and the Board as a whole can then look at the issue.
Dr. Bowman commented that he is not a fan of Board committees for exactly
what is occurring. Committees slow
down the process. The committee
does a lot of work and then the Board needs to be informed and the work is
redone with the entire Board. More
time is expended when committees are used. d.
Intermediate Unit Board No
report. e.
Board Policies Committee Mrs.
Butville advised that the committee has not met since the last meeting. Mrs.
Butville noted that on April 2nd the legislators meeting took place
in Doylestown and David Steil has come up with a tax policy plan. Mrs. Butville also distributed information from the
conference. Mrs.
Butville advised regarding fundraising there is an organization named
“America’s Schools” and they want to go to corporations and have them
agree to put this symbol on their products.
Then the schools that agree to work with them in turn will display
posters with the symbol and literature will be sent home.
If the school participates, the company will provide a percentage of
their sales every quarter. The
district would need to sign up in order to participate. f. Technical School Board No report
provided. g. Technology Committee No report
provided. 11. Future Topics No future
topics were discussed. 12. Agenda Development for the April 23, 2002 Public Meeting 13. Correspondence
There was no correspondence. 14. Other Board Business No other
board business. Mr. Dengler moved the meeting be adjourned and Mrs. Jowett seconded the motion. The Board approved the motion with five ayes. Mr. Schoenstadt adjourned the meeting at l0:20 p.m. Respectfully
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