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The Neshaminy
Board of School Directors met in public session on January 22, 2002 at the Carl
Sandburg Middle School. The
following persons were in attendance:
Prior to the
meeting, the Sandburg Middle School Woodwind Ensemble, under the direction of
Mr. Morris, and the Sandburg Middle School Men’s Chorus, under the
direction of Ms. Welwood and Ms. Fitt, performed several selections. Call to Order –
Mr. Schoenstadt called the meeting to order at 8:00 p.m. Announcements –
Dr. Bowman thanked Dr. Davis, Sandburg Middle School principal, and Mr. McDonough,
Sandburg Middle School assistant principal, for hosting the meeting.
He also thanked the Sandburg School PTO for providing refreshments at the
meeting. Dr. Bowman
pointed out the Sandburg School students’ artwork was on display in the school
lobby. He said the Sandburg Middle
School’s program is an example of the comprehensive fine arts program
available to all Neshaminy students. He
congratulated Ms. Guertin and Mr. Wallerstein for providing exhibits of the
typical type of artwork in the middle schools and thanked the students for their
fine efforts. Student Representative Report
– Miss Ziemer, student representative, reported the
following: · The Student Council will sponsor a Valentine’s Day dance on February 8. · A talent show is being planned for March. · Gym Night will be held the first weekend in March. · The student comedy show “Laughing Stock” will be held February 21, 22 and 23. · The school musical will be held on February 13. · The third annual senior picnic is being planned. · The school trips have been reinstated. · The juniors are required to take the PSSA test in February. ·
There are mixed emotions among students
regarding the use of drug-sniffing dogs in the high school.
Some students feel it keeps the school safe. If students do not have anything to hide, it is not a
problem. Other students feel it is
a breach of their rights. Board Recognition –
Dr. Bowman explained traditionally January is the month that School Board
members are honored across the state of Pennsylvania.
In appreciation of the Board members’ service to the Neshaminy
community, Dr. Bowman presented to each Board member a recognition certificate
and Neshaminy desk caddy. Dr. Bowman noted
the Board members have a tremendously important job.
They serve the community and make decisions to ensure there is quality
education throughout the schools. He
thanked the current and previous Board members he has worked with for helping
Neshaminy be one of the finest school districts in the Commonwealth of
Pennsylvania and being recognized as an outstanding school district. Public Comment –
There was a three minute time limit per speaker.
Ms. Hope Cunningham, Levittown, thanked the Sandburg Middle School
Men’s Chorus for singing about one of the country’s most valuable assets,
freedom. She stated due to the events of September 11, people are
worried about their freedom. The
only way to keep your freedom is to fight for it.
The use of search dogs in schools is a violation of the Fourth Amendment
to the United States Constitution. The
Amendment is a part of the Bill of Rights.
She stated we are not to be searched unless there is reasonable cause.
Ms. Cunningham stated the reason for the Bill of Rights is the
distribution of power in this country. Power
to the executives, legislators, justices and the people.
The Bill of Rights is power to the people.
If people do not know their rights, they cannot defend their rights.
The students do not know their rights, and most adults do not know their
rights. She urged people to learn
their Constitutional rights. She
announced she has a brochure available to the public outlining the rights of
citizens and she is listed on the American Civil Liberties Union of
Pennsylvania’s Web site. Ms. Cunningham
said do not let these dogs trample our children.
It is not fair. It does not
cost any money to give the children freedom.
It does not cost a dime to teach the children about dignity, self-respect
and self-worth. She cited and
commended the George School’s educational program. She said just because we
have a public education system, does not mean we deserve dogs on our children. Mr. Schoenstadt
explained there was a precedent set by the State Supreme Court ruling in 1994
regarding searches of high school
students’ lockers being constitutional. The
State Supreme Court overruled the lower court ruling in the state of
Pennsylvania in 1994. The State
Supreme Court stated “by using these highly trained dogs, the principal was
able to further minimize the nature of intrusion on students. Only a few of the 2,000 lockers were actually opened.
At the same time, the principal was able to meet the compelling necessity
of addressing the serious danger caused when drugs invade the public school
environment.” Mr. Schoenstadt
stated there is sufficient justification, on a legal basis, for the School
Board’s ruling. Mr. Mecleary
pointed out the first time drug-sniffing dogs were used within the District they
found a bottle of Aqua Velva. Mr.
Schoenstadt commented that he was glad it was not something else.
It verified that the school was, in fact, drug free. Dr. Bowman stated
he has seen some children’s lives ruined and their families become
dysfunctional because of a drug problem. He
said if we save one child, it will be worth the effort.
As long as I am permitted by law and there is a School Board Policy that
empowers me to use search dogs, I will have search dogs, not searching students,
but going by lockers and automobiles park on School District property.
This tool will be used as a prevention tool.
When the word is out, drugs stop coming into the school.
Neshaminy High School is not any different than any other school. There is no perfect place where there are no drugs.
The District needs to be proactive. Dr. Bowman
explained the search dogs are not police dogs.
A private agency, which the Intermediate Unit is developing a contract
with, will be used for the searches. The
administration feels confident that student rights will not be violated.
The search dogs will not be sniffing students, but will be checking
lockers and automobiles. The
administration will do its best to provide a drug-free environment with this
prevention tool. Some students will
probably get caught with drugs. Mr. Hudon,
Levittown, said is the Board and administration trying to stop drugs in the
schools or children on drugs? He
felt using search dogs will not stop anyone from using drugs.
The individuals will just use drugs some place else. The District needs to stimulate, educate and reduce hate in
the schools. If the children are
made to feel like problems of society, they will become problems of society.
He urged the Board to not abuse the rights students were born with and
granted. He said empower the
students to take charge by informing and educating them.
Make the students feel special and give them hope there is a future in
this country. Do not make the
students feel like criminals. There is no strength through fear, but there is through
compassion. Children go through
mental and physical changes through adolescence.
The use of search dogs will depress the students and make them feel
insignificant. The only place
children have to go to feel respected or important is school, their home away
from home. He asked over the years,
how many students’ lockers have been invaded.
He said the students are not the problem. Ms. Rebecca
Cunningham, Morrisville, explained her niece attends Neshaminy High School, and
she supports the initiative to stop the use of search dogs in Neshaminy High
School. She stated she has always
admired the Neshaminy School District and considered it an innovator in
education. She explained she has
done some work with the District through the Bucks County Peace Center.
She advised the Board she is a peace educator and conflict resolution
specialist. She expressed concern
that the other school districts are looking to Neshaminy to see if the search
dog program works. If it supposedly works in Neshaminy, other school districts
will institute the program. She
noted the Pennsbury School District has already instituted the program and the
Council Rock School District is considering instituting the program. Ms. Cunningham
explained she has been working on the issue of school climate the last nine
months in the Philadelphia School District.
In the Philadelphia schools there are metal detectors, non-teaching
aides, school police and security cameras and the schools are still completely
out of control. She felt the use of
search dogs may have a short-term affect. She
recommended the Board consider a long-term resolution.
She offered to share her ideas and initiatives taken in other schools
regarding finding a long-term resolution to the issue, which includes student
empowerment. She said students must
find out and be clear what their responsibilities are on this issue.
Students and parents need to be involved in the issue.
The use of search dogs takes the responsibility away from the students to
do anything about the drug issue. The
students need to be a part of the resolution.
Currently, part of the problem in the schools is the disempowerment of
students. Mrs. Butville
arrived at the meeting at 8:30 p.m. Ms. Bianchino,
Langhorne-attendance grid 2P, read Dr. Abraham’s, Everitt School principal,
letter addressed to the Board regarding attendance grip 2P.
In the letter Dr. Abraham asked the Board to not act to move attendance
grid 2P from the Samuel Everitt School at this time (see attachment I). Ms. Ramella,
Langhorne-attendance grid 2P, noted Dr. Bowman recently held a very informative
meeting with parents. She stated
the parents do not want their children transferred to another school. As stated in Dr. Abraham’s letter, the next three years are
planned out and the figures work out fine.
The Everitt School is not overcrowded and no one is complaining.
She requested the Board allow the students located in attendance grid 2P
to remain at the Everitt School. Ms. Donlon,
Langhorne-attendance grid 2P, explained her two children would be affected by
the proposed attendance boundary change. She
noted under the proposal, some of the students will attend three different
schools in three years (current elementary school, new elementary school and
middle school) with three different sets of friends.
She urged the Board to allow the students to remain at the Everitt
School. If the students must be
transferred to another school, transfer the students to an elementary school
where they will move along to the middle school with the same students. Ms. Hicks,
Langhorne-attendance grid 2P, explained her daughter, who had an IEP, attended
the Everitt School. The teachers
worked with her, she successfully completed her classes and is currently
attending the Maple Point Middle School. Her
son currently attends third grade at the Everitt School.
He is in his first year of his IEP Program and the teachers are working
with him. It will be very hard for
him to adapt to a new school. She
asked the Board to allow the students of attendance grid 2P to continue
attending the Everitt School. Mr. Timbone,
Langhorne-attendance grid 2P, referred to information available on the American
Academy of Child and Adolescence Psychology Web site.
He stated research shows change interrupts children’s lives, interrupts
friendships and sometimes can cause children to regress and not adapt well.
Change is not that easy for children.
Mr. Timbone stated the 65 children located in attendance grid 2P are
students and are not numbers. In
light of the events of September 11, it is not a time to relocate students
because of numbers. It is a time to
think about the children. Ms. Gulick,
attendance grid 2P, implored the Board to revisit and reevaluate attendance grid
2P. She requested the Board allow
the children located in attendance grid 2P to remain at the Everitt School. Mr. Moore,
Langhorne-attendance grid 2P, noted attendance grid 2P was first scheduled to be
transferred to the Hoover School and then scheduled to be moved to the
Schweitzer School. He said the
parents have never been told why attendance grid 2P is the “wild card” in
the process. Mr. Marotto had stated to parents at a recent meeting that 20
months ago he had identified attendance grid 2P as a problem to
redistricting. Mr. Moore said for some reason attendance grid 2P is not
really attached to any school. He
pointed out the parents are apprehensive about the change and concerned about
the adverse affects of the change. District
officials have assured the parents things will be running smoothly by October.
He expressed concern about the adjustments students will have to make in
September. Mr. Moore
explained there is concern the students will not attend the same middle school
as their elementary classmates. Parents
have been told to be careful what they wish for.
Students might be forced to attend the Sandburg Middle School. He felt the problems regarding the relocation of students
have not been met with open minds, but with minds that were made up before
officials spoke with parents. He
asked the Board to keep an open mind and ensure that everyone is treated fairly.
He stated while it is not possible to make everyone happy, it should be
possible to demonstrate fairness in the process. Mr. Moore said if
walkers to the school were eliminated from the redistricting equation, any of
the areas with students bussed to the Everitt School would be possible
candidates for a relocation to another school.
However, only attendance grid 2P is being moved from the Everitt School
and was the only area considered for relocation.
There are many families in houses and apartments across the street from
attendance grid 2P, but they seem to be exempt from consideration for possible
relocation. He felt the way
attendance grid 2P was moved from the Everitt School to the Hoover School to the
Schweitzer School demonstrates the lack of consideration the area has received.
He asked what the residents of attendance grid 2P have done to receive
the label “problem group”. Mr. Moore
recommended attendance grid 2P remain at the Everitt School.
He stated the projections show a decrease in the Everitt School’s
population. The enrollment will not
change for several years, as many as five years. Allowing the students to remain at the school, will permit
the Board and administration to fairly address all the families in the current
Everitt School area and reach a decision, not based on a decision made two years
ago, but based on many changes and more current data.
He urged the Board to approve all of the proposed attendance changes,
except the attendance grid 2P change, and allow attendance grid 2P to remain at
the Everitt School. Ms. Moore,
Langhorne-attendance grid 2P, questioned the necessity for changing the students
located in attendance grid 2P to the Schweitzer School.
She felt the residents of attendance grid 2P are being taken advantage of
because 2P includes a much smaller number of students than the 240 students Mr. Marotto
said he was able to keep in their home schools.
Attendance grid 2P was identified as a problem area 20 months ago.
It is being targeted in an attempt to solve the declining enrollment at
the Schweitzer School. This is the
only issue. There is no problem at
the Everitt School. The parents are
happy and the school does not want the students of attendance grid 2P to leave
the school. Moving the attendance
grid 2P students will hurt the Everitt School.
The school will lose teachers, a group of involved and supportive parents
and a great group of students. The
school is not overcrowded and its resources are not spread too thin.
The problem lies in the Schweitzer School’s enrollment. Ms. Moore stated
she realizes the Board must look at the whole picture.
Making the decision to close a school was very difficult and now the
Board is faced with the challenge of relocating the Tawanka students for the
start of the next school year. She
recommended the issue of changing the home school of the attendance grid 2P
students be treated as a separate issue. Since
it is not related to the closing of the Tawanka School, there is no urgency to
make this decision and it does not need to be put in place by next year.
She stated the relocation of attendance grid 2P to the Schweitzer School
has only recently been proposed. It
has not been considered over the last 20 months as the rest of the process has
been considered. She felt the
decision seems very rushed, which adds to the parents’ concerns.
She requested the Board remove attendance grid 2P from the attendance
boundary changes the Board will be voting on later in the meeting. Ms. Russell,
Langhorne-attendance grid 2P, questioned how the students can adjust to their
transfer to the Schweitzer School when it is not known who will be the
school’s principal next year and what type of curriculum will be offered. She expressed concern about the transfer of students from an
elementary school only facility (Everitt School) to an elementary school
facility connected to a middle school (Schweitzer School), which will result in
the younger elementary students having contact with middle school students.
She emphasized her concern that it will be very difficult for the
students entering first grade to adjust to a new school.
Ms. Russell urged the Board to not relocate the attendance grid 2P
students. Mr. Clark,
Levittown, expressed his thanks to the Board members, Business Office staff,
Neshaminy High School staff and Sandburg Middle School staff
for their condolences the last two weeks. He explained four years ago, when he was a Board member, he
argued against the use of search dogs, because he believed it was in opposition
to the rights provided in the United States Constitution.
He commended the Board for tackling the issue of search dogs in the
schools. Mr. Clark
explained he had previously served on the School Board for six years and pointed
out the importance of the decisions made by the Board.
Mr. Clark thanked Mr. Dengler and Ms. Drioli for voting along with him
when the Board voted to hire Mark Schmidt.
He explained he recently attended the football banquet and no comments
were made thanking the Board for supporting the program within the District. He
noted how difficult an issue redistricting is and whenever redistricting takes
place there will be some complaints. He
thanked the Board members for their service to the Neshaminy community, and said
the Board is doing a phenomenal job in many areas.
He noted Dr. Bowman was instrumental in the process of having companies
partner with the School District. Over
the last five years, McCafferty Ford has gone the extra mile in many different
ways to provide support to the District. It
has provided financial support for various events and programs. Ms. Wilcox,
Penndel, explained she is a Hoover School parent-attendance grid 3A, and
expressed concern about name calling taking place as part of the redistricting
issue. She urged everyone to stop
the neighborhood name calling. She
pointed out the children from the various neighborhoods will be interacting
together at school. Ms. Wilcox
advised the Board there are parents who support the Board’s decision to
utilize search dogs. She stated she
sets a good example for her children and teaches them right from wrong.
However, she cannot control what they do or possess outside of her home.
If, as teenagers often do, they make poor decisions before parents know
about them, at least now we can step in and help before it spirals out of
control. My children know they are
valued and have been taught to respect themselves.
She said she intends to see that her children’s peers do not steal that
away from them. She thanked the
Board for helping to protect her children, because that is what they need. Ms. Buhler,
Penndel-attendance grid 2P, felt the redistricting of attendance grid 2P is not
based on urgency but theoretical potential need in the future.
She recommended a slower and less abrupt way to change the attendance
ratios in the schools be utilized. She
said if 60 students are transferred to the Schweitzer School, the Schweitzer
School will immediately need three to four additional teachers and classroom
setups, which has financial implications. She
recommended a phase-in plan be utilized over the next five to ten years that
would allow the existing Everitt School student population and their upcoming
siblings to complete their elementary education at their home school.
She noted the length of West Durham Road is approximately 1.5 miles with
four to five bus stops. One bus
could make stops at two different schools or two buses could be assigned to the
area to transport the students to the two schools during the phase-in period.
Parents would have the option to transfer their children to the new
school sooner, which would accelerate the transfer of students.
She estimated it would take approximately five years to complete the
phase-in. She said her children
would like to remain at the Everitt School and graduate from their current home
school. She urged the Board to
reconsider the relocation of the attendance grid 2P students. Mr. Lindner,
former Neshaminy teacher, administrator and coach, said Neshaminy is the
greatest School District in the state of Pennsylvania and has the greatest
School Board in the state of Pennsylvania.
He said wherever the students attend school in the Neshaminy School
District, they are attending a Blue Ribbon School.
He explained it has been his experience that the parents are more fearful
of change than the students. When
change comes about, the students seem to adapt very easily.
He said the Board members do a magnificent job.
He pointed out The Board members are elected by the residents of the
Neshaminy School District and not paid for their many hours of work to make
Neshaminy the best school district. Mr.
Lindner said if the use of search dogs can prevent one child from being involved
with drugs, one child is saved, that dog has done his job.
He felt the use of search dogs in the schools has been a long time
coming. Board Comment –
Mr. Mecleary referred to Ms. Buhler’s comments regarding a phase-in program
for attendance grid 2P students, and asked how many would support a phase-in
program. A number of parents raised their hands to indicate they would
support such a plan. The parents
indicated they favored the current Everitt School students and their siblings
being allowed to complete their elementary education at the Everitt School and
new enrollees attending another school. Ms. Drioli noted
there are infringements on individuals’ civil rights when they make a purchase
at some stores. Customers are asked
to provide their telephone number, etc. She
stated the use of search dogs has nothing to do with civil rights.
It has to do with the protection of children.
It will serve as a deterrent. She
explained she has concern for the children and especially the child who is not
strong enough to say no. Ms. Drioli
referred to comments presented regarding Mr. Marotto identifying attendance grid
2P as a problem area. She said in
all of the time she has known Mr. Marotto, he has never, ever considered a
child, group of children or section of the community a problem.
His concern is for the quality of education in the District and
individual students. She said Dr.
Bowman and Mr. Marotto have never felt that any child in the District is a
problem. If the words “problem
area” were used, it was not said in the context that Mr. Marotto or Dr. Bowman
felt the children or attendance grid area is a problem to them. Dr. Spitz
inquired how retaining attendance grid 2P at the Everitt School would affect the
teacher workloads at the two schools, would it create an imbalance and would it
affect the Intermediate Unit students located at the Schweitzer School.
Dr. Bowman noted a school was closed, a school community was disrupted
and the Board provided direction to the administration to balance out the
enrollment throughout the entire School District.
It has been stated the last two years that just because one school is
going to be closed, it does not mean other students will not be moved.
It is known that other students will be moved.
An effort has been made to accommodate as many students as possible.
The attendance grid 2P issue is one of balance between schools.
The capacity utilization under the following scenarios would be as
follows: Attendance grid 2P remain at the Everitt School for the 2002-2003 school year· Everitt School - 93 percent capacity utilization ·
Schweitzer School - 70 percent capacity
utilization Attendance grid 2P moved to the Schweitzer School for the 2002-2003 school year· Everitt School - 87 percent capacity utilization · Schweitzer School - 90 percent capacity utilization ·
Close to the average capacity utilization
for the District Five year projection if attendance grid 2P retained at Everitt School· Everitt School – 97 percent capacity utilization ·
Schweitzer School – 57 percent capacity
utilization Five year projection if attendance grid 2P part of Schweitzer School· Everitt School – 92 percent capacity utilization ·
Schweitzer School – 77 percent capacity
utilization Dr. Bowman
pointed out the capacity utilization percentages do not include Intermediate
Unit classes. If there is no
adjustment in the Schweitzer School’s attendance area, the Schweitzer School
would almost become an Intermediate Unit Center for the School District. The Schweitzer School is a community school and is not being
considered for closure. Dr. Bowman
explained another consideration in the redistricting process is the modular
classrooms. As a result of the
public hearings, the Board directed the administration to not use modular
classrooms for regular classrooms. The
appropriate adjustments had to be made to ensure all regular education students
could fit into the regular classrooms and the modular classrooms would be used
for only itinerant type programs. Dr. Bowman
emphasized that the same curriculum, textbooks, programs and teacher training is
used in all of the District’s elementary schools.
Neshaminy has a huge tradition of caring for its children and doing the
best it can do so they do not fall through the cracks.
Any child that is moved or affected by the closure of a school will be
taken care of and embraced by the teachers.
The students will be embraced with passion and love.
They will know they are cared for and people care for them.
The staff, Board and Neshaminy community place a value on education.
The Neshaminy community struggles with taxes but the people who live in
the District also value education and have appropriate expectations.
He said he understands that parents do not want their children moved to
another school. However, the
relocation of students will allow all students in the remaining elementary
schools to have balanced opportunities. In
a small school the art, music and health and physical education teachers are in
the building less than five days a week unless the Board is willing to spend
extra money and have a terribly unbalanced teaching load. An effort is being made to distribute students across the
District and have a balanced capacity in the buildings so the same opportunities
are provided throughout most of the buildings.
Every effort is made to be fair and do the right thing.
Sometimes that is not the popular thing to do.
It is an issue of utilization of facilities and economics.
The Board could say not to move attendance grid 2P.
However, in the future the Schweitzer School would be significantly
underutilized and become a place where more Intermediate Unit classes will be
added. He questioned whether that
would be fair to the Schweitzer community.
The Everitt School will be utilized almost to full capacity.
What is fair is balance throughout the entire School District. Dr. Bowman
explained there have been no discussions whatsoever regarding a change in middle
school attendance boundaries. The
Board has not even asked the administration to review middle school attendance
boundaries. The students located in
the 2P attendance grid would attend the Maple Point Middle School. The Maple Point Middle School has been recommended for Blue
Ribbon evaluation and has been recognized as a School of Distinction.
Dr. Bowman said he believes all four of the District’s middle
schools are quality Blue Ribbon Schools. It
is a matter of going through the required process to receive the recognition. Dr. Bowman said
the Neshaminy community is a small community, 26 square miles. There is not a huge difference between one place and another
place in the community. There is no
educational difference in the schools. A
friendly, warm environment will be found in all of the schools.
Dr. Bowman commended Dr. McKee, the educational leader at the
Tawanka Elementary School, for responding professionally throughout the entire
process. Mr. Eccles
expressed concern about the students who would have to change schools twice in
two years. He inquired if any
consideration has been given to this issue.
Ms. Drioli indicated she shares Mr. Eccles’ concern.
Dr. Bowman advised the Board in 1976 the Eisenhower and Hoover Elementary
Schools were closed. The closings
took place a year after the Maple Point School was opened.
The community had difficulty reconciling the expenditure of funds for the
opening of the Maple Point School in 1975 and closing two elementary schools in
1976. The children from the two
schools were relocated and attendance boundaries were realigned.
The children did well. Based on what has happened in the past, the
administration has learned children handle the situation pretty well. In 1986 the Hoover School was reopened and the attendance
boundaries were changed again. At
no time was the attendance change phased in.
No matter when the change is phased in, people will be impacted.
The best thing to do is make the change, get behind it and everyone pull
together to make it the best and smoothest transition for children.
Make it a positive event, a celebration.
Dr. Bowman said it is a difficult time and he respects the parents’
feelings. The realignment of
attendance boundaries is simply a matter of providing balance in the buildings.
It is not a matter of one section versus another section.
When modular classrooms are no longer used for regular classes,
adjustments need to be made. The
Schweitzer School was being significantly underutilized and the decision, which
made sense, was made to move attendance grid 2P to the Schweitzer School. Dr. Spitz
inquired about the use of modular classrooms at the Everitt School this year and
next year if the students from attendance grid 2P remained at the school.
Dr. Bowman explained currently at the Everitt School one modular
classroom is used for a regular class and one is used for the Title I Program.
If attendance grid 2P were to remain at the Everitt School next year, the
modular classrooms would be used for ancillary services, i.e., speech program,
instrumental music, etc. The
students could probably be accommodated in regular classrooms next year.
The Everitt School is currently utilizing 94 percent of its capacity.
The school will be at 93 percent capacity utilization next year and
capacity utilization will increase to 95 percent the following year. Motion: Amend
Agenda
Mr. Schoenstadt
presented the following motion: I move
the agenda be amended to reflect that the next agenda item will be the
elementary attendance boundaries -
2002-2003 motion. Mr. Dengler
seconded the motion. The Board
unanimously approved the motion. Motion: Elementary
Attendance Boundaries – 2002-2003
Mrs. Bostwick
presented the following motion: WHEREAS the Board of School Directors voted to close the Tawanka Elementary School at the end of the 2001-2002 school year; and WHEREAS it is necessary to realign elementary school attendance boundaries to compensate for this change; and WHEREAS, the Neshaminy School District has given the community the opportunity to provide input on proposed changes in elementary school attendance boundaries. NOW,
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the attached elementary school attendance
boundary plan (attachment II) be adopted and implemented as of the beginning of
the 2002-2003 school year. Mrs. Butville
seconded the motion. Mrs. Butville
inquired if the attendance boundaries decision could be delayed two weeks until
the February Work Session to allow for further review of the issue.
If the decision is delayed two weeks, what affect would the delay have on
the staffing decisions? Dr. Bowman
reviewed the timetable, which is as follows: · School closure decision - prior to January · Attendance boundaries decision - January ·
Use of Tawanka facility decision - February Dr. Bowman stated the administration is in
the process of building the budget and receiving staff members’ retirement
letters. The budget will be a huge
challenge this year. The
administration proposed the following
timetable: · Accelerate staffing from April 1 to an earlier date · Post all administrative vacancies the end of February ·
Appoint administrators by the end of March.
This will allow teachers to know who will be the educational leader
(principal) for each building. Dr. Bowman explained delaying the decision will take time and energy away from other important issues that need to be addressed. He pointed out retaining attendance grid 2P at the Everitt School will provide an imbalance in the facility and under utilization of the Schweitzer School. The under utilization of a facility can result in additional costs, because the administration does not run any building with only one class of students. There are always at least two sections of each grade, which allows for leveling in reading, etc. He felt delaying the decision will not result in any new information being discovered. All the information is available and has been discussed many times. Mr. Mecleary indicated he favored a short
delay to determine what a phase-in program would look like. A phase-in program may be an opportunity to reach a
compromise. Dr. Bowman
expressed concern about a phase-in program and said does the Board revisit the
phasing in of closing a school? Does
the Board revisit the phasing in of other students being moved throughout the
District? Does the Board just
revisit the phase-in of one region? Ms. Drioli suggested the elementary
attendance boundaries – 2002-2003 motion be approved with a footnote if the
administration can make the change less painful, through any method, for the
attendance grid 2P parents and students, the administration have the freedom to
do so. She also suggested if the
motion is approved, those students who will be moved to different schools attend
the same middle schools as those students in their new elementary schools. Mrs. Butville stated there are many
students who attend the Schweitzer School and go on to attend the Maple Point
Middle School. The students in
attendance grid 2P would not be the only students graduating from the Schweitzer
Elementary School and attending the Maple Point Middle School. Dr. Spitz felt the Board needs to give the
administration direction and not leave the issue open for the administration to
decide on student attendance. He
indicated he supported Mr. Mecleary’s suggestion that the attendance grid 2P
decision be delayed until the February Work Session.
He recommended the Board approve the proposed elementary attendance
boundaries, except for attendance grid 2P, at this time.
Ms. Drioli felt the Board needs to pass the motion now, but allow the
administration some leeway as to the best way to handle attendance grid 2P.
She expressed concern if the Board decides to revisit the attendance grid
2P issue, it may result in revisiting the other associated issues of closing the
Tawanka School and other redistricting issues.
Dr. Spitz stated no one is suggesting the Board reopen the issue of
closing the Tawanka School or any issue regarding redistricting other than
attendance grid 2P. The only issue
outstanding right now is attendance grid 2P.
If the motion is clearly amended, the attendance grid 2P issue can be
dealt with specifically at the February Work Session. Mrs. Butville felt the Board needs to
table the entire motion or vote on the motion as presented. If a decision is not
made on the attendance grid 2P issue, Dr. Bowman will not be able to move
forward on the projections. Mrs. Bostwick
pointed out the special education students are to be mainstreamed.
If the phase-in program is instituted for attendance grid 2P, the special
education students will lose the opportunity to be mainstreamed.
All the special education students will be segregated in one location. Mr. Eccles stated he was greatly saddened
that the Tawanka School has been closed. He
felt if the Board does not abide by the administration’s redistricting
recommendation, the District could face another school closure.
He said he would not want to see another elementary school closed without
first some redistricting taking place. Mr. Schoenstadt noted after the Board
voted to close the Tawanka School, it asked the administration to provide a
sound educational plan on redistricting. The
administration has developed a plan, reviewed the plan with the community,
listened to the community members’ concerns and still feels the plan outlined
on the map attached to the elementary attendance boundaries – 2002-2003 motion
is sound educationally. Mr. Schoenstadt requested a roll call vote
on the elementary attendance boundaries – 2002-2003 motion. The tally of the roll call vote indicated the motion was
approved with seven ayes, Mrs. Bostwick, Mrs. Butville, Mr. Dengler, Ms.
Drioli, Mr. Eccles, Mrs. Jowett and Mr. Schoenstadt and two nays, Mr. Mecleary
and Dr. Spitz. Superintendent’s
Report – Dr. Bowman
thanked the Sandburg Middle School students present at the meeting for serving
as the student ambassadors. He
noted Mr. Keys, Bucks County Intermediate Unit, was in attendance at the
meeting. He reported the following: · Joseph John Pishl has been approved to receive a Neshaminy High School diploma. Mr. Pishl did not graduate from high school because he was called into the service for World War II. He is currently living in Florida. His diploma will be mailed to him. · Update on the Channel One Program distributed at meeting. Channel One representatives continue to address the issue of preventing students on ChannelOne.com from accessing adult content. It is anticipated Channel One will have addressed the issue by the end of January. · Karen Wychock’s, Neshaminy Middle School assistant principal, selection as 2002 Pennsylvania Assistant Principal of the Year will be celebrated at the February Public Meeting. The meeting will be held at the Neshaminy Middle School. · The annual football banquet was held on January 14. The band members and cheerleaders put in a lot of extra time and effort into the state championship. All members of the football team will receive championship rings as a result of corporate contributions. There will be no cost to the District. The following companies are sponsoring the rings: First Union Bank - $2,500, First American - $2,500, BASCO Associates - $25,000, Bill Clark (District’s insurance representative) - $2,500 and McCafferty Auto Group - $2,500. ·
On January 25, 4:00 p.m., at Neshaminy High School the Hall of
Fame inductee ceremony will be held. Approval
of Minutes – Upon motion
of Mr. Dengler, seconded by Mrs. Butville, the Board unanimously approved the
minutes of the November 27, 2001, December 3, 2001 and January 8, 2002 Public
Meetings. Approval
of Treasurer’s Report, Bills for Payment, Investments, Budget Transfers and
Exoneration of Personal and Per Capita Tax – Mr.
Paradise presented the following for approval: · November 30 and December 31, 2001 Treasurer’s Reports, subject to audit · Bills for payment for November and December 2001 · Six investments · Budget Transfer Report No. 02-3 (working copy) which includes 11 transactions and subtransactions ·
Personal and per capita tax exonerations for
November, 2001 totaling 908 exonerations and December, 2001 totaling 922
exonerations Mr. Paradise pointed out the Food Service
Department Profit and Loss Reports for October and November 2001 reflect two
profitable months for this self-supporting department. Ms. Drioli moved the November and December
2001 Treasurer’s Reports, subject to audit, November and December 2001 bills
for payment, Budget Transfer Report No. 02-3 (working copy), investments and
November and December 2001 personal and per capita tax exonerations be approved.
Mr. Schoenstadt seconded the motion. In response to a question raised by Mr.
Eccles, Mr. Paradise explained all the items listed on the check register, even
miscellaneous expenses, are included in the budget. Mr. Eccles questioned check number 131185 payable to
Boaters World for $129.99. He noted
the Board will soon be reviewing the budget and suggested there be a 10 percent
reduction in expenses. He said is
the District paying retail prices or wholesale prices for the miscellaneous
expenses? Mr. Paradise explained
the District purchases maps from Boaters World for the educational program.
Many of the District’s
purchases are through bids or group purchasing bids.
The administration does its best to obtain the best price.
The District budgets a per pupil allotment per school.
Therefore, it is to their advantage to try and obtain the best price. The Board unanimously approved the
Treasurer’s Reports, subject to audit, bills for payment, investments, budget
transfers and exonerations of personal and per capita tax. Certified
and Support Personnel Actions –
Dr. Bowman noted the Personnel Report reflects the new format requested by the
Board. He presented the following for approval: · Elections – Certified Staff · Resignations and Leaves of Absence – Certified Staff · Elections and Changes of Classification – Support Staff · Resignations and Leaves of Absence – Support Staff ·
Sabbatical Leave of Absence – Certified
Staff (for information only) The personnel information appears on pages
H-1 through H-8 and the addendum pages H-1a, H-4a and H-7a. Ms. Drioli moved the personnel actions be
approved and Mr. Dengler seconded the motion. In response to Mrs. Butville’s question
regarding the guidance counselor hiring, Dr. Bowman explained the hiring is not
an additional position in the Guidance Department.
The individual being hired comes highly recommended and will be an asset
to the guidance counselor team. The
concerns raised in the Guidance Department regarding communication, transcripts,
etc. are being addressed collectively by the team of guidance counselors. Dr. Spitz inquired about the meaning of
the asterisk typed next to the “L” code on the Personnel Report.
Dr. Bowman explained the asterisk indicates the salary is prorated
based upon the number of days of work. The Board unanimously approved the
personnel actions. Motion: Verizon Easement – Walter S. Miller School Mr. Dengler presented the following
motion: WHEREAS, Verizon has requested an easement on the Walter S. Miller Elementary School grounds in which to place a telecommunications and interface cabinet; and WHEREAS, we believe the granting of this easement will benefit both the School District and the community; and WHEREAS, the utility will compensate the District in the amount of $8,000 for the granting of this easement. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT
RESOLVED, that the Neshaminy Board of School Directors grant the easement
requested by Verizon, and to authorize the Business Administrator to execute the
agreement, upon review of the Solicitor, in the name of and on behalf of the
Neshaminy School District. Mr. Eccles seconded the motion. The Board unanimously approved the motion. Motion: Election of Superintendent of Schools Mr. Schoenstadt presented the following
motion: Pursuant to sections 1071 and 1073 of the Public School Code, the Board of School Directors is authorized to elect a qualified person to serve as District Superintendent; AND, WHEREAS, the Neshaminy School District Board Secretary having duly notified the Board of School Directors of the intent to appoint a Superintendent of Schools. NOW, THEREFORE, be it resolved that the Neshaminy Board of School Directors elect Mr. P. Howard Wilson as Superintendent of Schools for the Neshaminy School District to serve a term of five (5) years, July 1, 2002 through June 30, 2007. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the President and the Secretary are hereby authorized and directed to execute a contract with Mr. P. Howard Wilson in the name of and behalf of the Neshaminy School District for this purpose to be subject to review by the School District’s solicitor. Further, I move that the President and Secretary are hereby authorized to direct and execute the application for the Superintendent’s commission for Mr. P. Howard Wilson to be submitted to the Department of Education so as to complete the election made herein. Mrs. Bostwick seconded the motion. Dr.
Spitz stated he hopes to work with Mr. Wilson closely and in a cordial manner
over the next several years. Mr.
Schoenstadt requested a roll call vote on the motion.
The tally of the roll call vote indicated the election of Superintendent
of Schools motion was unanimously approved by the Board. Mrs. Butville congratulated Mr. Wilson on
his election as Superintendent of the Neshaminy School District. Dr. Bowman congratulated and invited Mr. Wilson to join the
Board members at the Board table. He
stated both he and Mr. Wilson are committed to a seamless transition.
Mr. Wilson will not let the District down.
He will continue Neshaminy’s great tradition. Motion: Attendance at National School Boards Association Conference Ms. Drioli presented the following motion: WHEREAS, attendance at a conference of the National School Boards Association provides Board members with excellent opportunities to review and analyze critical issues facing public education and opportunities for Board members to secure knowledge and skills that will benefit the School District; and WHEREAS, Section 516.1 of the School Laws of Pennsylvania and School Board Policy 123, provide that members of the Board may attend the national conference with prior Board approval. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, as per Section 516.1 of the School Code and School Board Policy 123, that the Neshaminy Board of School Directors authorizes three Board members to attend the 2002 National School Boards Association Conference to be held April 6-9, 2002. Mr. Schoenstadt seconded the motion. Mr. Eccles explained in light of the
Board’s decision to close a school and the upcoming budget, he is opposed to
Board members attending the conference in New Orleans.
It would not send the right message.
He urged the Board members not to vote in favor of the motion. Dr. Spitz inquired if any other Board
members, aside from Mrs. Butville, have expressed an interest in attending the
conference. None of the other Board
members indicated they were interested in attending the conference. Mr. Dengler recommended since Mrs.
Butville is the only Board member who has expressed an interest in attending the
conference, the motion be amended to indicate only one Board member be
authorized to attend the conference. Amendment to Attendance at National School Boards Conference Motion Mr. Dengler presented the following
amendment: I move the last paragraph of the attendance at National School Boards Association Conference motion be amended to authorize only one Board member’s attendance at the conference. The amended paragraph read as follows: NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT
RESOLVED, as per Section 516.1 of the School Code and School Board
Policy 123, that the Neshaminy Board of School Directors authorizes one Board
member to attend the 2002 National School Boards Association Conference to be
held April 6-9, 2002. Mr. Mecleary seconded the amendment. Ms. Drioli indicated she was opposed to
the amendment. She recommended the
motion be approved as originally presented and allow up to three Board members
to attend the conference. Mr. Schoenstadt requested a roll call vote
on the amendment to the attendance at National School Boards Conference motion.
The roll call tally indicated the amendment failed with five nays, Mrs.
Bostwick, Mrs. Butville, Ms. Drioli, Mr. Eccles, Mr. Schoenstadt and four
ayes, Mr. Dengler, Mrs. Jowett, Mr. Mecleary and Dr. Spitz. Mr. Schoenstadt requested a roll call on
the attendance at National School Boards Association Conference motion as
originally presented. The roll call
tally indicated the motion failed with five nays, Mr. Dengler,
Mr. Eccles, Mrs. Jowett, Mr. Mecleary and Dr. Spitz and four ayes, Mrs.
Bostwick, Mrs. Butville, Ms. Drioli and Mr. Schoenstadt. Amendment to Attendance at National School Boards Conference Motion Mr. Schoenstadt presented the following
amendment: I move the last paragraph of the attendance at National School Boards Association Conference motion be amended to authorize up to three Board members’ attendance at the conference. The amended paragraph read as follows: NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT
RESOLVED, as per Section 516.1 of the School Code and School Board
Policy 123, that the Neshaminy Board of School Directors authorizes up to three
Board members to attend the 2002 National School Boards Association Conference
to be held April 6‑9, 2002. Mrs. Bostwick seconded the amendment. Ms. Drioli felt it would be a mistake to
not have the Board represented at the National School Boards Conference.
She pointed out the Board and District benefit from information Board
members obtain at the conference. She
indicated she was in favor of allowing up to three Board members attend the
conference. She noted just because
the motion states up to three Board members are authorized to attend the
conference, it does not mean three Board members will attend the conference. Mrs. Jowett inquired about the per person
cost of the conference. Dr. Bowman
estimated the cost of air fare, lodging, registration and meals would be $1,200
per person. Mrs. Bostwick stated
the cost of obtaining the same type of education at a college that the Board
members obtain at the conference would be well over the $1,200 cost.
Ms. Drioli pointed out the cost of a weekend training session for
required training is $400 to $500 per person. Mr. Schoenstadt noted at this time, only
one Board member has expressed an interest in attending the conference.
Initially, three Board members indicated they were interested in
attending the conference, but two of the Board members have withdrawn their
names. Mrs. Butville had attended a
previous National School Boards Conference and provide an overwhelming amount of
information to the Board, which the Board was able to utilize.
He pointed out Mrs. Butville has already registered ($555) and purchased
her air fare ticket (less than $300). He
estimated the cost of her meals would be $200 to $300.
He felt attendance at the conference would be an inexpensive way to keep
the Board updated and current. The Board would be doing itself a disservice by
not allowing a Board member to attend the conference. Mrs. Butville pointed out she is one of
the people serving on the Board who does not work full-time and she has the time
to attend the conference. The
conference runs Friday through Tuesday. She
stated she feels it is her responsibility to attend the conference and bring the
information back to those who cannot attend the conference. The air fare cost is only $165 and the cost of meal will be
very minimal. Dr. Bowman said
Mrs. Butville is a real conventioneer and works very hard at the convention. Dr. Spitz stated he supports Mrs. Butville
attending the conference, but not three Board members.
He agreed it would be beneficial for Mrs. Butville to attend the
conference. Mr. Mecleary concurred
with Dr. Spitz’s comments. He
suggested if another Board decides at a later date he/she wants to attend the
conference, he/she could submit the request to the Board at that time.
Mr. Dengler stated he supports Mrs. Butville attending the
conference. Mr. Schoenstadt withdrew his amendment to
allow up to three Board members to attend the conference. Motion: Attendance at National School Boards Conference Motion Mr. Dengler presented the following
motion: WHEREAS, attendance at a conference of the National School Boards Association provides Board members with excellent opportunities to review and analyze critical issues facing public education and opportunities for Board members to secure knowledge and skills that will benefit the School District; and WHEREAS, Section 516.1 of the School Laws of Pennsylvania and School Board Policy 123, provide that members of the Board may attend the national conference with prior Board approval. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT
RESOLVED, as per Section 516.1 of the School Code and School Board
Policy 123, that the Neshaminy Board of School Directors authorizes one Board
member to attend the 2002 National School Boards Association Conference to be
held April 6-9, 2002. Mr. Mecleary seconded the motion.
Mr. Schoenstadt requested a roll call vote on the motion.
The roll call tally indicated the Board approved the motion with eight
ayes, Mrs. Bostwick, Mrs. Butville, Mr. Dengler, Ms. Drioli, Mrs.
Jowett, Mr. Mecleary, Mr. Schoenstadt and Dr. Spitz and one nay, Mr. Eccles. Motion: School Director Recognition Month – January 2002 Mr. Mecleary presented the following
motion: WHEREAS, the role of locally elected school officials has served the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and local communities in meeting the needs of public education since the passage of the Free School Act in 1834; and WHEREAS, these local boards have discharged their responsibilities to public education in a manner which has placed public education in the forefront of our educational systems; and WHEREAS, locally elected officials have distinguished themselves and their communities in the non-paid, volunteer public service commitment; and WHEREAS, the contributions of these men and women should be recognized and appreciated by those who benefit from the workings of our public school system. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT
RESOLVED, that the Executive Board of the Pennsylvania School Boards Association
hereby proclaims the month of January as School Director Recognition Month in
the Commonwealth. Mr. Eccles
seconded the motion. The Board
unanimously approved the motion. Federal Programs –
Dr. Bowman noted the federal programs/grant information was included in the
Board Meeting booklet. Entitlements
total $852,733 and other grants total $820,294.
Dr. Bowman pointed out a memorandum on the E-Rate Grant (federal
technology grant) was distributed to Board members.
The District will receive at least $230,000 for the 2002-2003 fiscal
year. On behalf of the Board, Mr. Schoenstadt commended and thanked Mr. Paradise
for his hard work and efforts on behalf of the Board and District. Other Board Business –
Mrs. Butville welcomed Mr. Paradise back to the Board Meetings.
Mr. Schoenstadt referred to the issue of the contribution rate to
the retirement system that the District will have to deal with in the budget
process. He pointed out the
contribution rate is regulated by the state legislators and once again they have
succeeded to place a severe financial burden on the Board without any way to
remedy the issue but to go back to the taxpayers. He felt the legislators actions were irresponsible and
reprehensible. Correspondence –
There was no correspondence. Public Comment –
There was a two minute time limit per speaker.
Mr. Lindner, former Neshaminy teacher, administrator and coach,
recommended the Board authorize the attendance of two Board members at the
National School Boards Conference. This
would allowed two Board members to meet at the end of the day and discuss the
issues and their differences of opinion. He
complimented the Board on the fine job it does and said the Neshaminy School
District is the greatest school district. Mr. Knowles,
President of the Neshaminy Federation of Teachers, congratulated Mr. Wilson on
his election as Superintendent of the Neshaminy School District. Ms. Drioli moved the meeting be adjourned and Mr. Eccles seconded the motion. The Board unanimously approved the motion. Mr. Schoenstadt adjourned the meeting at 10:25 p.m. Carol A.
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