The Neshaminy Board of School Directors met in public session on November 27, 2001 at the 
Samuel Everitt Elementary School.  The following persons were in attendance:

Prior to the meeting, the Everitt Elementary School Band, under the direction of Mr. Tucker, performed several selections.

Call to Order- Dr. Bowman called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.

Pledge of Allegiance � Dr. Bowman advised the Board of a letter he received from Nathan Ruger, class of 2003.  In the letter Mr. Ruger explained as his graduation project he has chosen to interview World War II veterans, specifically comparing their experience with that depicted in movies and literature.  The letter reviewed the Ruger family�s military history, his personal commitment to his graduation project and interest in Pennsylvania�s Operation Recognition.  He expressed a desire to participate in Neshaminy�s recognition of World War II Veterans Program.  Mr. Ruger lead the pledge of allegiance.

Student Representative Report � No report was presented.

Board Recognition � Mr. Stack stated it is an especially wonderful evening tonight to have the opportunity to provide long-awaited diplomas to the District�s World War II veterans.  He welcomed the World War II veterans to the meeting.

Ms. Drioli stated she has read the book �America�s Greatest Generation� and has come to the conclusion that those of the World War II time period are America�s greatest generation.  Our heroes are real people in everyday life.  Addressing the veterans in attendance, Ms. Drioli said gentlemen you are my heroes and I welcome you here tonight.  Dr. Bowman read an excerpt from the book �America�s Greatest Generation�, which portrays the lives of the people who came of age during World War II. 

Mr. Collins, Neshaminy High School principal, presented the graduating class to the Board President, Mr. Stack, and noted the Neshaminy veterans of World War II have successfully completed the requirements and goals of graduation.  Mr. Wyatt said the roll call of the Neshaminy veterans of World War II graduates.  Mr. Stack presented a diploma to the following graduates:

�         Mr. Roland Day

�         Mr. Donald Haefner

�         Mr. Robert Leonhauser

�         Mr. Frank Pishl

�         Mr. Mark Shapcott, Jr. (In Mr. Shapcott�s absence, Mrs. Elizabeth Shapcott accepted the diploma on behalf of her husband who was out of town.)

�         Mr. James VanSant (In Mr. VanSant�s absence, Mr. Haefner accepted the diploma on behalf of his friend.)

Each graduate received a school sweatshirt, baseball cap, golf shirt and pen.

Mr. Haefner said 50 people graduated from Langhorne-Middletown High School, class of 1947.  Four people missed graduation and now the four are receiving their diplomas.  I guess you�d call us slow learners.  The graduates tossed their caps in the air and received a standing ovation.

In order to allow everyone an opportunity to enjoy the refreshments provided by the Everitt School PTO, Mr. Stack recessed the meeting at 7:25 p.m.  Mr. Stack reconvened the meeting at 7:40 p.m.

Public Comment � There was a three minute time limit per speaker.  Mr. McGarry, Langhorne Manor, stated he represented the parents and children of the Oliver Heckman Elementary School.  He thanked the Board members who work so hard on behalf of all of the children of the Neshaminy School District.  He stated the Board members� dedication and understanding is appreciated.  He urged the Board at this time of great despair in the country, to reconsider the closing of the Tawanka School.  He stated now more than ever it is important to keep our children as close to home as possible for the continuation of daily, familiar routines in their own community.  This is reassuring for the children in this difficult time.  He referred to Dr. Bowman�s comments in a recent newsletter regarding the importance of maintaining the usual routine of family life.

Mr. McGarry pointed out declining enrollment will allow teachers and staff to spend more time with each child, which can only produce good results socially and academically.  As a result of the Tawanka School closure, the children of Langhorne Manor will be forced from their school and community and forced to attend another school three or four times the distance from their homes than the Oliver Heckman Elementary School.  He noted when the students go on class trips, they walk to the Langhorne Firehouse and Langhorne library.  This is the same firehouse that protects the Langhorne Manor homes and the same library that families visit to aid their children with school work.  People who moved to Langhorne Manor did so for that small town neighborhood feeling.  Many of the residents grew up in Langhorne Manor and enjoy the fulfillment of the American dream in a neighborhood rich with history and character.  He asked the Board to not send the Langhorne Manor children away from their neighborhood, community and history.

Ms. MacDonald, Langhorne, referred to the increase in the Tawanka Elementary School’s PSSA test scores, 90 point increase in Reading and 40 point increase in Math.  She questioned the Board reacting to the increase in test scores by closing the school.  She asked if the Board is concerned about finance and is closing the Tawanka School to save money, why are three Board members and the Superintendent attending the upcoming National School Boards Association Conference in New Orleans.

Mrs. MacDonald explained if the Tawanka School is closed, her children will be transferred to the Hoover School.  It takes 25 minutes to drive to the Hoover School from her house.  She expressed concern her children will be on the bus for 90 minutes traveling to the Hoover School.  Currently, her children’s bus ride to the Tawanka School is 30 minutes.  The Tawanka School is a five minute drive from her house.  She said maybe if I keep my kids out of school and they are truant, they can go to the alternative school and stay where they belong.  She criticized the Board members for not answering the residents’ questions.  She said vote to close us down, but we will be back.

Miss Davis, Langhorne-fifth grade Tawanka School student, stated she wants the Tawanka School to stay open.  After September 11, all the children need to go to school and feel safe.  She pointed out if the school is closed, the kindergarten students will be disappointed, because they will not become first graders at the Tawanka School.  She asked the Board to keep the Tawanka School open.

Miss Royer, Langhorne-fifth grade Tawanka School student, explained her brother is in third grade.  She would like her brother to continue attending the Tawanka School for fourth and fifth grades.  If the Tawanka School is closed, her brother will have to change schools every two years.  She said please think of us kids and make the right decision.

Ms. Mitchell, Oakford, asked the Board to keep the Tawanka School open for the community and children.  She stated the Tawanka School is the heart of the community.  The children are our future.  The children need care and nurturing when they are not at home, and the staff at the Tawanka School provides this.  From the principal to the teachers to the janitors, the Tawanka School is a wonderful place.  She pointed out her daughter has 27 children in her first grade class and questioned how many more children can be placed in a class.  She asked if there is any way the District can save money without closing the school, redistricting all the elementary schools and creating new bus routes.  She felt something else can be done.  She stated she was opposed to an alternative school being located in her neighborhood.

Ms. Mitchell stated she was one of the organizers of the picketing that took place at the Tawanka School on Election Day to make people aware a wonderful school was being closed.  She felt teacher salaries at the Tawanka School are not an issue.  The teachers have Tawanka pride.  They are Tawanka pride.  She asked the Board to reconsider the school closing issue.  She felt there has to be another path the Board can take.

Ms. Pennypacker, Elementary Vice President of Neshaminy Federation of Teachers, urged the Board to adopt the Federation’s position regarding the Tawanka Elementary School, which is to keep the Tawanka School open and shut down the modular units.  She stated by closing the Tawanka School, the Board members are ignoring the direction given by their constituents.  Close the Tawanka School and the Board is keeping the outdated modulars open in order to handle the students displaced from Tawanka to other elementary schools.  In closing the Tawanka School, the Board is forcing very young children to move back and forth from the modular classrooms, which have no toilet facilities and no running water, to the main building.  This movement creates serious safety and security issues when the safety and security of our children should be utmost in our minds.  Ms. Pennypacker urged the Board to keep the direction of its constituents in mind, keep all of Neshaminy’s students safe and secure and keep the Tawanka School open.

Ms. Knauth, Feasterville resident and Tawanka School staff member, pointed out Tawanka School students are working on spreadsheets and grades kindergarten through five students have their own data disks, which are supplied by Dr. McKee and the Home and School Association.  Starting at the  kindergarten level, students do word processing.  She said there is no other elementary school in the Neshaminy School District that can say the same thing.  The Tawanka School’s computer lab was the first elementary computer lab opened.  The staff has established its own curriculum.  Instead of the Tawanka School being closed, it should be a pilot school for elementary technology.

Ms. Knauth pointed out the Tawanka School staff and community did not beat its own drum.  The staff did its job day in and day out.  She noted due to the September 11 terrorist attacks, the world is a different place.  The community wants the school to stay open.  She urged the Board to give the students and the Lower Southampton residents back their school. 

Ms. Lanhan, Feasterville, said when the national focus is on smaller schools, why is Neshaminy going in the opposite direction?  She pointed out last year the Tawanka School was only two points away from receiving the Blue Ribbon Award and had the highest fifth grade PSSA score of 1430 in Reading of all of the District’s elementary schools.  The Tawanka School’s PSSA Math score was above average with a score of 1370.  Ms. Lanhan explained Dr. McKee, Tawanka School principal, calls the Tawanka School’s teachers and staff the Terrific Tawanka Team, and they are just that.  The teachers and staff support the motto “students come first.”  The teachers keep excellence and achievement high on their list of priorities and the test scores prove it.

Ms. Lanhan stated we are living in truly difficult, uncertain times with many people basing their short-term decisions on current events and putting off making long-term decisions.  She noted the Board is reevaluating student trips on a monthly basis.  Ms. Lanhan stated at such a time when the state of the nation can change from one day to another, don’t we want our children as close to home as possible, in neighborhood schools and in familiar surroundings to which they have become accustomed?  She asked the Board not to give the children another area of uncertainty in their lives at this time, especially when the District will not gain or lose any money next year from the closing of the school at the end of this year. 

Mr. Mager, Langhorne-fourth grade Tawanka School student, asked the Board to not close the Tawanka School.  He advised the Board the Tawanka School community worked hard to raise $30,000 to build a new playground two years ago, and the students work hard to keep it nice looking.  He said the Tawanka School students love their school.

Mr. Edelman, Oakford, stated the plans for an alternative school program are far from complete, and he has not been able to obtain any definite information about the program.  He said why does the Board want to transfer the “cream of the crop” (Tawanka students) to other schools and bring in the “bottom of the barrel” students?  Why does the Board want to take away the residents’ community school?  He stated the Tawanka School is one of the best maintained schools in the District and has the one of the best PTO organizations in the District.  When the District could not provide the funds for a new playground, the Tawanka School’s PTO raised the $30,000 needed.  He urged the Board to carefully consider the school closure issue and keep the Tawanka School open.

Ms. Spina, Langhorne, asked the Board to reconsider its decision to close the Tawanka School.  She noted by closing the Tawanka School, the other elementary schools’ capacities will be at the 86 to 92 percent level.  The Board projects a continued decline in enrollment, which means the schools will only be using 76 to 80 percent of their capacity.  She projected in two to three years, the Board will close another school.  She said all the children will be fine after the Tawanka School is closed.  However, the children should not have to change schools every two to three years.  She urged the Board to review the enrollment data again before voting to close the Tawanka School.

Ms. Spina indicated she agrees the District does have a responsibility to the students who need an alternative school program, and favors saving funds by educating the alternative school students within the District.  She inquired why the modular classrooms cannot be used for the alternative school program.  She suggested the modular classrooms be moved to the high school or a middle school.  This would allow the students to have access to the cafeteria, gymnasium and library facilities.  Under this arrangement, the students would still be part of the group where they belong.  They will not be separate. The students could be mainstreamed back into their own groups.   Being separate is not being a part of Neshaminy.   The students belong at the middle schools and high school.  They do not belong segregated as if they are in jail.

Ms. Reid, Langhorne Manor, urged the Board in this time of great despair in the country, to reconsider the decision to close the Tawanka School or any other elementary school.  She stated now more than ever, it is important to keep our children as close to home as possible and feeling safe, secure in their familiar school and community.  She explained as a part of the redistricting plan, Langhorne Manor children will be moved miles away from their home and separated from their friends and community.  She urged the Board to reconsider its decision.  She said the small amount of money that will be saved cannot be compared to the amount of caring and wonderful education received from a small community school.

Ms. Duke, Langhorne Manor, stated she was opposed to Langhorne Manor students being redistricted from the Heckman Elementary School to the Schweitzer Elementary School.  She reviewed the neighborhoods that the Heckman School was built to accommodate.  She explained the Heckman School was originally built for the Langhorne Manor children and for the last 35 years the Langhorne Manor children have attended the school.  For the past 100 years or more, Langhorne Manor children have always attended a Langhorne school.  Whether it was the Manor School at the turn of the century, the Pine Street School, Cherry Street School or Oliver Heckman School.  Langhorne is our history and our heritage.  It is our right as Langhorne Manor residents to continue to have our children go to a Langhorne School that was built for them.  She asked the Board not to take the children out of the community and not take away their history.  She said the Manor has worked very hard over the years to keep itself apart from the big town atmosphere and keep the small Rockwell feeling.  The residents moved to Langhorne Manor to have their children go to a school that is in their neighborhood.  Just knowing the children are close by makes the parents feel comfortable and at ease.  She referred to a recent Courier Times article that said “Langhorne Manor is in a world of its own.”

Ms. Drioli referred to comments presented regarding modular classrooms and explained it is very expensive to move the modular classrooms.  There have been offers to help move the modulars for a small fee.  She indicated this is an option she will entertain.

Mrs. Butville explained the redistricting plan includes not holding any full-time regular classes in the modular classrooms.  The decrease in elementary enrollment is enough that actually two schools could be closed.  Instead, only one school is being closed and the modular classrooms will not be used for full-time regular classes.  The modular classrooms will be used for specialist classes such as Title I, itinerant music, etc.  The modular classrooms will also be used by the PTO organizations.  Decreasing enrollment and closing only one school will allow students to be moved out of the modular classrooms and into regular classrooms.

Superintendent’s Report – Dr. Bowman reported the following:

·         PSSA test scores, which were received in the District about a week ago, were recently published in the Courier Times Newspaper.  Neshaminy is one of the high performing school districts in Bucks County.  Dr. Bowman congratulated all staff members, students and parents for their wonderful achievement on their test scores in Reading, Writing and Math.

·         Notification has been received from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Department of Education that the Maple Point Middle School has been nominated for the National Blue Ribbon Schools Program.  The Maple Point Middle School has received the Secondary School of Distinction Award from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Dr. Bowman congratulated all those at the Maple Point Middle School on this achievement.

·         The Neshaminy High School Field Hockey Team won the District Championship.

·         The Neshaminy High School Football Team will compete in the Eastern Pennsylvania Finals being held at Hershey, Pennsylvania, on Saturday, December 1.

·         Dr. Bowman introduced and welcomed Mr. Coyle, Intermediate Unit representative, to the Board Meeting.

Approval of Minutes – Upon motion of Dr. Frank, seconded by Mrs. Butville, the Board unanimously approved the minutes of the October 23, 2001 Public Meeting.

Approval of Treasurer’s Report, Bills for Payment, Exoneration of Personal and Per Capita Tax and Budget Transfers – Dr. Bowman presented the following for approval:

·         October 31, 2001 Treasurer’s Report, subject to audit

·         Bills for payment for October 2001

·         Personal and per capita tax exonerations for October 2001 totaling 341 exonerations.

·         Budget Transfer Report No. 02-2 (working copy), which includes four transactions with subtransactions. 

Upon motion of Mr. Dengler, seconded by Ms. Drioli, the Board unanimously approved the October 31, 2001 Treasurer’s Report, subject to audit, October 2001 bills for payment, October 2001 personal and per capital tax exonerations and the budget transfers.

Certified and Support Personnel Actions – Dr. Bowman 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)

*Item no. 6 was removed from the elections of support personnel listing on page H-3, because the job description is still being developed.

The personnel information appears on pages H-1 through H-8 and addendum pages H-1a, H-3a, H-5a and H-7a.

Dr. Bowman stated the District recently lost a wonderful staff member, Carolyn Baldwin.  She was a kindergarten teacher at the Pearl Buck Elementary School.  She is greatly missed by all those at the Pearl Buck School, the District and especially her family.

Dr. Bowman noted Lillian Smoyer, instructional assistant, is retiring after 19.8 years of wonderful service to the District.

Upon motion of Mr. Schoenstadt, seconded by Mr. Eccles, the Board unanimously approved the personnel actions except item no. 6 listed on page H-3, which was removed from the Personnel Report.

Extra-Curricular Staff and Salaries Report – Dr. Bowman presented for approval the 2001-2002 Extra-Curricular Staff and Salaries Report dated November 27, 2001.  The report includes 16 positions for a total expenditure of $31,799.

Mrs. Butville moved the Extra-Curricular Staff and Salaries Report dated November 27, 2001 be approved and Mr. Mecleary seconded the motion.  The Board unanimously approved the motion.

Motion:  Contracted Transportation Services for 2001-2002

Mr. Dengler presented the following motion for approval:

WHEREAS, the School District transports public, private and parochial school students in accordance with the applicable state laws; and

WHEREAS, private contractors are sometimes used if it is more practical and less expensive to do so with other than District vehicles.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Neshaminy Board of School Directors authorizes the School District to enter into private contracts for the 2001-2002 school year for the transportation of certain  students in accordance with state regulations as follows:

Contract #1            Middle Earth, Incorporated           

                  (8 students)                    $26,784

Contract #2            Lakeside Youth Service

                  (10 students)                    $51,150

Contract #3            Huntingdon Valley Christian Academy

                  (3 students)                    $  6,324

                                    TOTAL            $84,258

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Business Administrator is authorized to sign these contracts on behalf of the School District.

Dr. Frank seconded the motion. 

Mr. Schoenstadt noted the cost per student for the contracted services is approximately $4,000.  It is costing the District $84,258 to transport 21 students.  It appears to be uneconomical when it costs a fraction of that amount to transport every other student in the District.  He stated he would support the motion because there are no other alternatives.  He stated changes need to be made at the state level regarding the transportation of students outside of the School District. 

The Board unanimously approved the contracted transportation services for 2001-2002 motion.

Motion:  Acceptance of 2000-2001 Audit Report

Ms. Drioli presented the following motion:

WHEREAS, the audit for the Neshaminy School District for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2001, has been prepared by Hege Kramer Connell Murphy & Goldkamp, P.C., Certified Public Accountants. 

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Audit Report for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2001, as prepared by Hege Kramer Connell Murphy & Goldkamp, P.C., Certified Public Accountants, be accepted in accordance with Section 24-2408 of the School Code.

Mr. Schoenstadt seconded the motion.  The Board unanimously approved the motion.

Motion:  High School Diplomas

Dr. Frank presented the following motion:

WHEREAS, in order to serve and defend our country, high school students elected to withdraw from school and enlist into the armed forces; and

WHEREAS, because high school diplomas were not awarded to these veterans, “Operation Recognition” has been initiated and the Pennsylvania School Code of 1949 was amended to permit school districts to grant diplomas to eligible veterans.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Neshaminy Board of School Directors allow the Superintendent of Schools to grant and affirm Neshaminy High School diplomas to the aforementioned veterans.

Mr. Eccles seconded the motion.

Mr. Stack stated the high school diplomas motion provides for future allocation of such diplomas should other worthy veterans petition the Board.

The Board unanimously approved the high school diplomas motion.

Motion:  Summit Trace Open Space Parcels Tax Forgiveness

Mrs. Bostwick presented the following motion:

WHEREAS, Middletown Township/Summit Trace was developed by Gigliotti Corporation; and

WHEREAS, there are several open space parcels in the Summit Trace Development that should have been transferred to Middletown Township; and

WHEREAS, prior to transferring the properties to Middletown Township as open space, Gigliotti Corporation filed for bankruptcy; and

WHEREAS, the following tax parcels (22-66-157, 22-66-158, 22-5-5-4, 22-66-152, 22-66-153, 22-66-154, 22-66-155, 22-66-156, 22-5-5-7 and 22-66-198) now have tax claims against them by Neshaminy School District, Middletown Township and the County of Bucks.

NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that Neshaminy School District will waive the taxes outstanding on the properties provided that Middletown Township and the County of Bucks also waive the tax claims and, further, provided that the waiver would only occur on the dedication of the properties to Middletown Township.

Mr. Schoenstadt seconded the motion.

Mrs. Bostwick inquired if the County of Bucks has waived the taxes.  Mr. Fleck explained Middletown Township has already waived the taxes.  It was the understanding of the Middletown Township Manager that the County will also waive the taxes.  The District’s waiver will not be effective until the parcels are actually dedicated to Middletown Township. 

The Board unanimously approved the Summit Trace open space parcels tax forgiveness motion.

Motion:  Revision to Policy No. 549 Search of Students and Seizure of Evidence

Mrs. Butville presented the following motion:

WHEREAS, the Neshaminy School District has a compelling interest in promoting an environment which is safe and conducive to learning; and

WHEREAS, the District currently has Policy No. 549 – Search of Students and Seizure of Evidence that permits a search of a student’s property; and

WHEREAS, the Neshaminy School District chooses to utilize all available and appropriate resources such as canines to protect students, maintain order, discipline, and curb violence; and

WHEREAS, after careful review by the Board Policies Committee, the District is ready to recommend revised Policy No. 549 – Search of Students and Seizure of Evidence.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that Policy No. 549 be approved by the Board of School Directors (see attachment I).

Mr. Dengler seconded the motion.

Mr. Mecleary stated he does not deny the legality of the policy, but sees the policy as just one more incremental erosion of our rights.  Ten years from now, you will notice something much bigger that what is occurring tonight.  He expressed concern it has gone from cameras in the buses, cameras in the hallways to drug sniffing dogs in the schools.  He questioned what is being given up in terms of personal rights.  He cautioned all District employees as to what they may be giving up in terms of personal rights. 

Mrs. Butville stated she did not believe the students or employees of Neshaminy have a civil right to bring illegal drugs into the school buildings.  Mr. Mecleary pointed out he never said anyone had a right to bring drugs into the School District.  It is an erosion of individual’s rights.  Ms. Drioli stated our rights have been eroded by the events of September 11.

The Board approved the revision to Policy No. 549 – Search of Students and Seizure of Evidence motion with seven ayes, one nay, Mr. Mecleary; and one abstention, Mr. Eccles.

Mrs. Butville explained the drug sniffing dogs being considered for use in the schools will not have direct contact with any of the students.  The drug sniffing dogs will search the lockers and cars on District property when the students are not present.

Motion:  Tawanka School Closing

Mr. Stack presented the following motion:

WHEREAS, the Neshaminy School District K-5 elementary enrollment has significantly declined since 1992 and elementary building program capacities exceed enrollment by over 1,000 students; and

WHEREAS, the District can reduce operating costs by closing an elementary school; and

WHEREAS, the Board of School Directors held a public hearing on August 28, 2001 as required in Section 780 of the School Code; and

WHEREAS, THE Board of School Directors provided opportunities for “school closing” public comment at all Board Meetings  held after the above mentioned hearing.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board of School Directors officially close the Tawanka Elementary School effective July 1, 2002.

Ms. Drioli seconded the motion.

Mr. Dengler referred to the Tawanka School closing motion and stated I have listened to the concerns of those who have come to address the Board both pro and con.  I have had very little to say during these meetings.  Rather I have listened and weighed the concerns of each group.  Many of these concerns are valid.  I am reminded of what Carl Sandburg wrote about another person who was faced with a very difficult decision.  With little to say, he said nothing.  In August, I supported the decision to close Tawanka.  That was in August.  Many things have changed since then.  In November, I’m not so sure this is the right path for us to take.  The events of September 11 have changed our way of living, like it or not.  Is it prudent to bus our children from the security of their small community at this time to save only a few dollars?  It is almost certain that we will be faced with more closings in the very near future.  I am now of the opinion that we should wait and do everything at once so that the community and children face only one possible change.  Those who have accused the Board of hidden agendas and those who have said they will never speak to certain Board members again have had nothing to do with my decision tonight.  The events of September 11 and sincere professionalism with which Dr. McKee has addressed the Board at each meeting have influenced my decision. Therefore, I will not support the Tawanka School closing motion.

Dr. Frank requested a roll call vote be taken of the Tawanka School closing motion.

Mrs. Bostwick expressed concern about the attitude expressed by some residents toward some of the District’s students.  She stated the students who need special help are not “the bottom of the barrel”.  The students need special help and the Tawanka facility can provide that.  Change is inevitable in anyone’s life.  Everyone has to make changes.  Mrs. Bostwick stated she does support the closing of the Tawanka School.

Ms. Drioli referred to an article in Representative Wright’s recent newsletter regarding being fiscally responsible with education due to the economic slowdown.  She stated the country is in a recession and it is not known what will happen in the future.  She said she does know the District will keep the children as safe as it possibly can.  She stated the expression “the bottom of the barrel” is offensive.  She explained she will work diligently with the community with regard to the use of the Tawanka facility.  Although there are students who live in the Tawanka community who would attend the school as well as students from all over the District, the Tawanka facility does not necessarily have to be used as an alternative school.  The country is in a recession and closing the school is the responsible thing to do. 

Mr. Stack stated the step being taken right now involves closing the Tawanka Elementary School.  The Board has tried to be up-front with the community regarding ideas about maintaining the facility as a community resource.  The Board does not want the facility to remain empty, but to have it used in some form.  The advantages to using it as an educational facility in some form are great.  If in the future the facility were needed as an elementary school, it could be brought back online without investing a lot to bring it up to code.  This is a major consideration.  The decision to use the facility as an alternative school will be a separate decision.  Further discussion and feedback will be sought from the Neshaminy community regarding usage of the facility.  The Board wanted to provide an initial view of what the new attendance boundaries might look like if the Tawanka School were closed.  The initial attendance boundary changes have been posted on the District’s Web site for review by the members of the public.  As of this meeting, the new attendance boundary lines have not been finalized.  The attendance boundaries plan is a very solid plan, but it is possible there may be some adjustments made to it.  Mr. Stack commended Mr. Marotto for his efforts on the attendance boundaries plan. 

Mr. Stack explained the entire school closure/revised attendance boundaries process began initially in April 2000 when Mr. Schoenstadt brought to the Board’s attention the large decline in enrollment.  Members of all of the schools’ PTO groups were invited to help develop suggestions.  One of the suggestions was to reduce class size at the elementary level, and the Board has done that.  The reduction in class size is a part of the contract with the Neshaminy Federation of Teachers.  In response to  the community members’ security concerns about modular classrooms, full-time regular classes will not be held in the modular classrooms beginning September 2002.  Mr. Stack said he understands the community members’ feelings about the Tawanka School.  The Tawanka School is a wonderful school.  The District has eight other very wonderful schools.  As the staff and students are dispersed to other neighboring schools, they will make them strong and viable as well. 

Mr. Stack explained in 1992 there was 1,533 more students, including sixth graders, in the District’s nine elementary schools than there are today.  In 1993 the sixth graders were moved into the District’s middle

schools.  Today there are 801 fewer students in the elementary schools.  He noted even though elementary enrollment will continue to decline, it probably will not be necessary to close another elementary school due to various factors.  The Board has agreed to maintain the Intermediate Unit classes held in the District schools and is committed to lower class size.  The Board will be discussing the possibility of providing a full-day kindergarten program.  These programs require the utilization of facility space.

Mr. Stack requested a roll call vote on the Tawanka School closing motion.  The results of the roll call vote indicated the Board approved the motion with five ayes, Mrs. Bostwick, Mrs. Butville, Ms. Drioli, Mr. Schoenstadt and Mr. Stack and four nays, Mr. Dengler, Mr. Eccles, Dr. Frank and Mr. Mecleary. 

Federal Programs – Dr. Bowman reported the District has received $852,733 in entitlements and $800,070 in competitive grants, which is a total of $1,652,803. 

Other Board Business – Mr. Stack thanked Dr. Abraham, Everitt School principal, for hosting the Board Meeting and the Everitt School PTO for providing the refreshments at the meeting. 

Mr. Stack noted a letter addressed to Governor Mark Schweiker was distributed to the Board members for review.  The letter includes two salient points, which are that the District is not receiving enough funds from Harrisburg and the need for an alternative way to fund schools.  Mr. Stack felt it is important for the Governor to understand how his local constituents feels about the school funding issue.  He requested Board permission to send the letter to Governor Schweiker. 

Mr. Schoenstadt felt the Governor and Department of Education need to be enlightened as to problems that exist in funding education.  He suggested a symposium be held in the District and the Governor or his representatives and representatives of the state legislature be invited to participate in it.  He noted Senator Rhodes has submitted a outstanding tax proposal and it is being ignored by the Governor.  He suggested a second letter be sent to the Governor inviting him to participate in a symposium at the District, which will allow the Governor to hear input from School Board members, educators and the community members. 

Mrs. Bostwick suggested rather than sending the drafted letter to the Governor, a letter outlining the issues facing School Boards regarding school funding but not listing what the School Board will accept be sent.  She stated she does not agree with utilizing a personal income tax and was opposed to even suggesting it in the letter.  Mr. Schoenstadt explained an increase in the personal income tax rate and a modification to the school funding formula are a part of the proposal introduced by Senator Rhodes.  Mrs. Bostwick said the farther away the District’s money gets, the less money the District gets back.  I do not want to send our money to Harrisburg. 

Mr. Stack explained part of Senator Rhodes’ proposal includes a change in the school funding formula, which will result in the District receiving approximately 50 percent of its revenue from the state.  The District currently receives less than 20 percent of its revenue from the state.  Mrs. Bostwick said if the District could do something totally local, the District would have 100 percent of the funds. Mr. Schoenstadt explained any funding proposal must also be accepted at the state legislative level.  One of the problems is the central Pennsylvania school districts are not receiving as much funding as the large cities.

Mrs. Bostwick inquired if the Pennsylvania School Boards Association is addressing the issue.  Mr. Schoenstadt explained about six weeks ago the Pennsylvania School Boards Association presented a proposal that supported Senator Rhodes’ proposal and the formula he developed.  Mr. Stack stated it is unlikely Senator Rhodes’ proposal will be approved without any changes.  A lot of the components of the proposal benefit southeastern Pennsylvania.  The Governor should recognize and act upon the proposal.  Mr. Stack stated he would like to make the Governor aware of Senator Rhodes’ proposal and the fact that there are concerns about school funding.

The majority of Board members indicated they were in favor of sending the letter (see attachment II) to Governor Schweiker.  Therefore, the letter will be mailed to the Governor.

Mr. Eccles advised the Board WBCB will supply the Board with air time on Tuesdays from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. the second or third week of the month.  The 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. time period will allow a greater opportunity for residents to call in their comments and questions.

Correspondence – Mr. Schoenstadt reported he received letters from three Langhorne Manor residents who are concerned about the Langhorne Manor students being transferred to another school.  The residents want to be provided with ample opportunity to review and discuss the proposed redistricting plan.  The residents hope the plan is not final and there is the flexibility to discuss it further.

Public Comment – There was a two minute time limit per speaker.  Mr. Ruger announced the Neshaminy Marching Band will be performing at the December 1 Eastern Pennsylvania Football Finals.  The junior varsity hockey team beat Truman High School’s team with a score of 6 to 1.  The junior varsity hockey team’s record is now 5-2-1.

The Co-President of the Poquessing Music Boosters invited the Board members to attend the Poquessing School’s art show and winter concert on December 3 at 7:00 p.m.

Board Comment – Ms. Drioli thanked the Everitt School PTO for the red, white and blue bracelets given to the Board members.

Mrs. Butville noted the Board members are not always aware of all of the schools’ concerts.  She requested a listing of all of the concerts being held in the District.  Dr. Bowman indicated he will look into providing the Board members with a District concert list.

Mr. Stack referred to an editorial included in the Playwickia regarding the School Board making decisions for the student body without hearing what the student body has to say.  Mr. Stack said the student representatives’ report to the Board is critical to the Board receiving feedback from the student body.  If the student representatives are not available to provide a report at the Public Board Meetings, another Student Council member should serve as an alternate to keep the Board informed of student issues.

Mr. Stack noted Dr. Frank and himself will be leaving the Board.  He stated he has had the opportunity to work with Dr. Frank the past eight years.  He said it has been a privilege to be a part of putting Neshaminy on top.  It has been an honor to work with fellow Board members and work toward a number of different initiatives.  He said he has worked tirelessly to make a difference.  He encouraged the Board members to be involved.  He thanked the members of the administration for their support over the years.

Ms. Drioli said she knows she did not do what the Tawanka community wanted her to do.  She commended the Tawanka community members for the respect shown to the Board members and their courteous behavior when expressing their views.  She thanked the community members for their feedback and input.  

Mr. Schoenstadt thanked Mr. Stack for his commitment and dedication.  He noted Mr. Stack has served eight years on the Board in a relatively thankless job.  He said when the job is done the way it has to be done, very few people will pat you on the back and congratulate you.  Most people will be upset over one issue or another, because they are difficult decisions.  The Board members are elected to make the difficult decisions.  There are not too many easy decisions.  Mr. Stack has lead the Board well.  He kept the Board focused and targeted on those issues that were of primary concern both educationally and fiscally.  I am proud to have served on the Board with Mr. Stack.

Mr. Stack reminded the Board members the Board Reorganization Meeting will be held on Monday, December 3, at 8:00 p.m. in the Board Room located at the District Offices, Maple Point Middle School.

Mr. Eccles moved the meeting be adjourned and Mr. Dengler seconded the motion.  The Board unanimously approved the motion.  Mr. Stack adjourned the meeting at 8:55 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Carol A. Calvello
Board Secretary

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