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PUBLIC
BOARD MEETING MINUTES (WORK SESSION)
NESHAMINY BOARD OF SCHOOL DIRECTORS
June 3, 2003
The
Neshaminy Board of School Directors met in public session on June 3, 2003,
at Maple Point Middle School
Board Room. The following
persons were in attendance:
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BOARD MEMBERS:
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ADMINISTRATORS:
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Mrs.
June R. Bostwick, President
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Mr.
P. Howard Wilson
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Mrs.
Kimberly A. Jowett, Vice-President
Mrs. Yvonne V. Butville
Ms. Carol A. Drioli
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Dr.
Raymond J. Boccuti
Mr. Harry P. Jones
Mr. Richard S. Marotto
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Mr.
Richard M. Eccles
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Mr.
Joseph V. Paradise
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Mr.
Steven E. Schoenstadt
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Mr.
Bruce M. Wyatt
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Mr.
Michael A. Soifer*
Dr. William H. Spitz
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Mr.
Edward T. Stack
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OTHERS:
Approximately 38 persons from the public, staff and press
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SECRETARY:
Mrs. Anita E. Walls
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*Arrived
at 7:40 p.m.
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l.
Call to Order
Mrs.
Bostwick called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.
2.
Pledge of Allegiance
Mrs.
Bostwick requested those in attendance join in the salute to the flag.
3.
Announcements
Mrs.
Bostwick advised that the Policy Debate and Speaker Time Limit was
adopted in 1967 and last reviewed in January 2003.
Mrs. Bostwick advised that according to the policy at each monthly
board meeting public participation at the time specified on the agenda
shall be allowed. Speakers will indicate whether they wish to speak on an
agenda or non-agenda item. Speakers
shall identify themselves by stating their name and address.
There will be a three (3) minute time limit per speaker at the
beginning of the meeting. There
will be a one (1) hour time limit for public comment.
Mrs. Bostwick further noted that at Work Sessions the same orders
apply, however, there will be a two (2) minute limit per speaker and
twenty (20) minutes per comment period.
One (1) comment period is held during a Work Session and two (2)
comment periods at the Public Meeting.
Mrs.
Bostwick noted that if a person did not have a chance to speak in the
first hour of public comment those individuals will be given first chance
in the second public comment.
Mrs.
Bostwick further wished to change the agenda so that Board comment takes
place after committee reports have been given.
Mrs. Bostwick would like to change Board comment back to the place
where policy says it should be, unless there was a good reason for the
change.
Mr.
Eccles suggested that this matter be brought up for review since it is not
fair to have a public meeting and allow people to speak, and then cut off
comment after one (l) hour.
Ms.
Drioli in Mrs. Bostwick�s defense stated that this policy was put into
effect in an effort to allow the board to accomplish the business at hand.
Ms. Drioli stated that the Board is under state law to approve the
budget and compelled by the laws of the state to complete board business.
Mrs.
Bostwick requested that the audience take responsibility.
The policy is in effect so the board can conduct business and
listen to the public fairly. The
public must decide whether they need to speak two and three times on the
same agenda item. If an individual has heard his ideas and views expressed they
should then cross their name off the list.
Mrs. Bostwick was very concerned about the display of disrespect
that was shown to the high school student who expressed a different view.
Mrs. Bostwick asked all individuals to respect other�s
viewpoints. Mrs. Bostwick
hoped that this was the last display of rudeness that would occur, and
looks forward to some well reasoned solutions to the problems at hand.
Mr.
Schoenstadt stated the policy was legally reviewed in 1972 when Maple
Point was being considered, and at that time it was not in violation of
any state laws. Mrs. Bostwick
stated that the policy was reviewed on January 16, 2003.
Mr. Schoenstadt stated that he could support the policy if the
Solicitor states that the policy is at this time legal, and in fact, does
not violate any state laws, and that it conforms to Roberts Rules.
Mrs.
Bostwick stated that the policy will be submitted to the Solicitor for
review.
Mrs.
Butville stated that the Policy Committee has been going through all
policies, and this particular policy was reviewed by the Solicitor in
January 2003.
4.
Public
Comment
Mrs.
Susan Larson, Langhorne, PA, stated that her daughter is a second grader
at Oliver Heckman Elementary and active in the AE program this year as an
invited guest. Mrs. Larson
stated that her least favorite subject is math, but she loves AE math.
She was identified at the beginning of the year and put on a
waiting list with other qualifying students to be tested.
Mrs. Larson noted that it is now the end of the year and she has
yet to be tested because of the backlog of students.
Mrs. Larson was told that her daughter should be tested by
September. Mrs. Larson must
question the current policy and procedures in place.
Mrs. Larson noted that it is imperative that procedures be followed
out in a timely manner to ensure the rights of all children who qualify
for this program. The testing issue is a big problem in the AE program.
Obviously, additional assistance is needed.
Mrs. Larson questioned if anyone has considered contracting out for
testing on a per test basis to move things along.
Mrs. Larson thought that using this method would rectify the
existing problem as each student would be tested during the school year
and before the school year ends. Mrs.
Larson further noted that you would obtain a more accurate report of the
actual number of students enrolled in the AE program.
Serious consideration needs to be given to tabling this particular
budget cut. Mrs. Larson requested that each student be tested, identify
every single child who qualifies for the program, have them tested, and
change any existing policies and procedures to ensure that the rights of
these students be respectfully followed out in a timely manner within the
school year and not into the summer.
Mrs. Larson noted that the bottom line is that the district has the
responsibility to provide a challenging environment.
No child should be excluded from any educational opportunities, and
before cutting into any educational programs consideration must be given
to cutting at the overhead level.
Mr.
Solis Basen, Langhorne, PA, asked the following questions:
What the mechanics are to submit a budget to the state?
Are the budgets ever rejected or questioned?
Is there an association with the 502 school districts and are they
doing anything to get help, since nothing is coming from the legislatures? Mr. Basen thought it was time to change the rules.
Mr.
Howard Lindner, Langhorne, PA, stated that he felt embarrassed that he
once passed out Mrs. Bostwick’s literature.
Mr. Lindner stated what the community wants:
·
The
Board to immediately withdraw Plancon Part A & B from the state.
·
To
stop all plans and actions to build a new school until a referendum is
held.
·
The
Board reappoint Rick Eccles to the Finance and Facilities Committee which
he ran for two years before he was unjustly removed by this Board.
·
The
Board to reorganize and vote out the President.
·
The
Board to vote for Rick Eccles, the voice of the people, as President with
his background and knowledge.
·
To do
away with the time limit for public comment, because the Board’s
responsibility is to listen to the people who vote.
Mr.
Charles Lauble, Langhorne, PA, stated he was happy to see a great amount
of time was taken at the last board meeting regarding the education of
students and the AE and music programs.
Mr. Lauble stated that excellence is judged not only by how
effective something is, but also by how efficient it can be made.
Mr. Lauble believes that the Administration is attempting to bring
efficiencies into the system. Excellence
is judged by effectiveness and efficiency.
Mr. Lauble stated that his children do not qualify for the AE
program, but he is looking for a well rounded, quality education for his
children. Mr. Lauble hopes
that the focus is on the entire system to make it effective and efficient
and that is how you judge excellence.
Mr. Lauble stated that he got excellence at Neshaminy and the
district should be striving to get back to the excellence in the education
that Mr. Lauble received.
Mrs.
Kathy Stanford, Langhorne, PA, spoke last week, however a board member was
not present. Mrs. Stanford
has a second grader in the math enrichment program who scores very high in
math, but he will probably never be a part of the program if the changes
are made. Mrs. Stanford feels
that if her child’s school only has a half time teacher he will be left
behind. Mrs. Stanford also
wants a well rounded program, but the savings of one salary is not worth
all the students who will be left behind and who will not be challenged.
The more students who are challenged and given the opportunity that
her son has been given will score higher on tests, help her son, and help
the school and community by bringing in more tax dollars if the scores are
higher.
Mr.
Myrl Brut, Langhorne, PA, inquired regarding the fifteen (l5) questions he
had submitted forty-six (46) days ago.
Mr. Brut noted that he e-mailed the school district thirteen (13)
times this week and he will not go as far to say that he has been blocked
out, however, all thirteen (13) came back rejected.
5.
Items
for Discussion
a)
Proposed
Cellular Tower at Everitt Elementary School
Mr.
Paradise met with T-Mobile who is interested in leasing ground at Everitt
Elementary School. The space
required would be a 50’ by 50’ area for a monopole to be constructed. Mr. Paradise suggested that a meeting be scheduled with the
community in the Everitt area to discuss the issue. Mr. Paradise noted that a draft agreement has been drawn up
and he will have the Solicitor review same.
Mr.
Eccles recommended that the PTO be contacted at Everitt Elementary School
in order that it may be placed in the newsletter.
There
was Board consensus to advertise a meeting and proceed with discussions.
6.
Items
for Approval
a)
Bucks County Technical High School Budget
Mrs.
Butville stated that the Bucks County Technical High School budget was
passed by a vote of 34-4. Ms. Drioli noted that the Articles of Agreement would be
revisited.
b)
Short Term borrowing for Blue Cross Prepayment
Mr.
Paradise advised Board members that it would be necessary to float a Tax
and Revenue Anticipation Note in order make a Blue Cross prepayment by
July 15th. Mr.
Paradise advised that it will be advertised and at the June Public Board
Meeting the board will be asked to approve a Tax and Revenue Anticipation
Note in the approximate amount of $10M.
Mr. Paradise advised that the district would save approximately
$502,000 from the Blue Cross prepayment.
After legal expenses and loss of investment income the net savings
to the district will be approximately $400,000.
The time period for the Note will be approximately the first week
in July until mid-September.
Mr.
Paradise further advised Board members that 80%-90% of the tax collection
will occur by August 31st and he is confident that said Note
will be repaid by mid-September. Mr.
Paradise has already spoken with some local tax collectors regarding the
situation.
There
was Board consensus to proceed with the short term borrowing for the Blue
Cross Prepayment.
c)
Long Term borrowing for Capital Improvements
Mr.
Paradise provided a handout to Board members regarding Options for Funding
Capital Improvements.
Mr. Paradise provided the following summary of facts:
·
Swing
Loan of $2.3 million, approved November, 2002, for a maximum of 2 years,
at 2.022% for 2002-2003 capital needs (Intention
was to combine this with a $110 M Bond Issue for High School and provide
for other capital needs)
·
New
Capital Improvement needs of $2.8M for 2003-2004
·
Additional
Capital Improvements needed in 5 Year Plan of approximately $3M per year
Mr. Paradise provided the following short
term options:
·
Borrow
an additional $2.8M for a similar 2 year term
·
Renegotiate
original swing loan for a total of $5.l M for same period of time
·
Principal
Payment should be budgeted in 2003-2004
·
Other
options that the Board may wish to consider
Mr. Paradise provided the following long term options:
·
Contribute
a specific amount annually from the General Fund to a Capital Reserve Fund
to be used for facility improvements
·
Float
a Capital Improvement Bond Issue for at least $15M to provide for capital
needs for 2002/2003 to 2006/2007.
Mr.
Paradise noted to Board members that no funds have been allocated for
immediate needs at the high school. Mr.
Paradise suggested repayment of said amount to be 10-15 years.
Mr. Paradise noted that the existing debt service is $3.3M annually
out to 2013.
Mr.
Paradise advised Board members that the Administration needs an overall
sense of direction.
Mr.
Paradise provided Board members with a handout from Mike Lillys, RBC Dain
Rauscher, which provided debt scenarios for $15M and $20M with two
different payment schedules (level and modified wrap).
Discussion ensued regarding the four scenarios presented.
Mr.
Schoenstadt inquired as to the callable dates on the current outstanding
bonds. Mrs. Donovan advised
that the callable date is 2007.
Mr.
Paradise directed Board members to look at Schedule 1l, which provides the
total net fiscal debt service of $4.3M in 2005 and remains that until
2013, which provides room to deal with other issues.
Mr.
Schoenstadt stated that the district is borrowing funds for buildings,
wings, facilities, tangible assets for the money that was spent, however,
the district is taking what should really be paid out of the operating
budget on an annual basis and building future debt.
Mr.
Soifer stated that the Fund Balance should be used properly and should not
be used to cover short term loans.
Mr.
Schoenstadt stated that a plan needs to be designed that is the most
logical, rationale and affordable. Mr.
Schoenstadt stated that at some point there needs to be an adjustment in
the tax base.
Mr.
Soifer stated that the money for the capital reserve should be taken out
of the Fund Balance and that is the only way the fund will be established
every single year, otherwise capital improvement monies will be used for
short term solutions. Mr.
Stack noted that one-half of the Fund Balance is already being used to get
to 28.4 mills.
Mrs.
Bostwick left the board room at 7:45 p.m.
Mr.
Soifer further commented that the district cannot continue to keep
borrowing. Mr. Soifer wants
to come to a solution regarding capital improvements.
Mr.
Wilson stated that direction is needed from the Board regarding the $6M
that is needed. If the Board
wishes to put in another $1M for capital improvements, the millage will go
from 28 mills to 34 mills for an additional $1M.
Mr.
Paradise stated that in his opinion it is not a wise option to do a bond
issue for $6M-$7M due to the numerous costs involved in the bond issue
that are fixed.
Dr.
Spitz inquired regarding the restrictions on a capital reserve fund. Mr. Paradise stated that the district would have no trouble
with this type of reserve fund since the contributions would not
accumulate and there are no time restraints.
Mr. Paradise noted that the advantage of a flat contribution into a
capital reserve fund is that the district could possibly get ahead of the
curve. Mr. Paradise commented
that every time there is a maintenance problem, i.e. roof, boiler, etc.,
it is a monumental problem because of lack of such a capital reserve fund.
Ms.
Drioli noted that the district can take the capital expenditures over the
next 15 years and make it easier on the taxpayer.
Mrs.
Bostwick returned at 7:55 p.m.
Mr.
Soifer noted that he is not against a bond issue, but he is against what
the money will be used for and what the money should be used for sometimes
get put by the wayside.
Dr.
Spitz noted that the district does have a five (5) year plan with very
specific items and costs, however there is no control over what a board
will do in two or three years.
Mr.
Paradise commented that he feels there is a necessity for both borrowing
money and establishing a capital reserve fund.
The proposed bond issue for the fifteen years with the first debt
service payment to be in 2004-2005. Mr.
Paradise advised Board members that the district debt is very low in
comparison to other school districts.
Mr.
Eccles questioned what payments have been made to ATS&R. Mr. Wilson responded $900,000 and approximately the amount of
$150,000 - $180,000 to BASCO.
Mr.
Eccles questioned if the Board is saying that the high school issue is
over at this point and letting the next board take on the high school
issue. Mr. Schoenstadt also
commented that he would like to know what this Board intends to do.
Mr. Schoenstadt stated that it takes a little courage to say “yes
or no.”
Mr.
Stack stated his position at the last meeting and supports specific
feedback from the community in the way of a survey.
Mr. Schoenstadt stated an election was just held.
Mr. Stack stated there are three (3) regions and there was no
contest in Region 3. Mr.
Stack noted that 10 years ago his region represented better then 40% of
the total population of Neshaminy, and with the addition of Flowers Mill
and Shady Brook the percentage is even higher.
From Mr. Stack’s perspective he cannot accept those results.
Mr.
Schoenstadt stated that overall in the district 15% of the voters came
out, 85% did not. Of the 15%,
9% of those said that they did not want to reelect anyone in favor of a
new high school. Mr.
Schoenstadt stated that 85% of the voters either felt the situation was
decided and they accepted it, or they did not.
However, they are the silent majority, who has not spoken a word.
Mr.
Eccles stated that the voters have spoken.
Ms.
Drioli stated that Mr. Eccles was part of the process that hired ATS&R
and he was part of the process that fired BASCO.
Ms. Drioli noted that Mr. Eccles was instrumental and Ms. Drioli
requested that he not “hang” other Board members out there because he
was part of the process.
Mr.
Eccles would just like the high school issue stopped and let the people
decide in a general election.
Dr.
Spitz returned focus to the $5.8M needed and the $1.9M needed at the high
school. Mr. Eccles stated
that he cannot support a bond issue knowing exactly what was said that you
can write a bond issue tomorrow. Mr.
Eccles stated that the Board floated a bond in November 2002 just to pay
ATS&R. Mr. Eccles stated
he cannot have a $110M bond issue hanging over his head.
Mrs.
Butville commented how long do we put it off.
Can we subject the students to the conditions at the high school,
such a health risks, etc.
Mr.
Wilson stated that the Board needs to move on with the budget and the
$5.8M problem. Mr. Wilson
stated that he has instructed the architects to do no more until they are
advised further.
Mr.
Soifer questioned whether the $15M addresses the problems at Poquessing.
Mr. Soifer requested to know what are the actual items that need to
be done so that the school is totally functional, whether Poquessing,
Hoover, Heckman, etc. Mr.
Soifer requested an entire list of the legitimate capital improvements for
all schools through 2009.
Mr.
Paradise noted that the Administration can only take what direction it
receives from the Board, and up until now the direction has been that
there would be renovation or construction of a new high school and then
renovation of Poquessing.
Mr.
Minotti stated that the information provided is only envelope items,
doors, windows, fire alarms, roofs, boilers, etc.
Mr. Minotti stated that through the years the plans have changed.
Mr.
Paradise noted that the district should consider a contingency fund for
miscellaneous, unexpected items. The
district cannot state to the Board with any kind of assurance that
emergency roof repair may not be needed at a certain facility.
Mr.
Wilson noted that the public has stated over and over to maintain the
buildings. This gives a
partial plan to maintain the buildings and putting 4-5 mills into the
regular budget as has been discussed will get the district started on what
the public has asked us to do with our schools.
Mr.
Stack stated that he supports Scenario 2 and supports $500,000 to be put
into the capital reserve fund for this year.
Ms.
Drioli inquired what was needed to keep Neshaminy Middle up and running.
Mr. Minotti stated that Neshaminy Middle could cost $18M-$20M which
is an old number.
Mr.
Paradise noted that $15M covers the district for this year and three more
years, Scenario 2 is a modified wrap, which would result in the least
millage cost. Dr. Spitz also
supported that Scenario.
Mr.
Schoenstadt stated that he cannot support anything until the Board makes a
decision on whether or not it is going to do something at the high school.
Unless there is the courage to speak out and state a position
whether minds have been changed or not, as far as Mr. Schoenstadt is
concerned this is not an option as long as there is another option that
this Board approved, by consensus vote.
Ms.
Drioli, Mrs. Jowett, Mrs. Butville, and Mr. Soifer also support Scenario
2. Mrs. Bostwick feels that
the children are losing out and the deal will never be gotten again and
facing this issue in another five years and payments will be double.
Mr.
Eccles stated that until the high school issue is put to rest he cannot
support any budgetary increases.
Mr.
Paradise stated that it is important that there is consensus because
starting in July roof work will begin based on this premise.
d)
Approval of Budgetary Increase for Federal and other Programs
(2002-2003)
Mr.
Paradise noted that during the course of the year the district receives
Federal and State grants and in order to properly account for them a
motion is necessary to open the budget and add them to the budget.
e)
Approval of Year End Budget Transfers
Mr.
Paradise noted that a Year End Budget Transfer motion will be provided at
the next public meeting.
f)
Bids/Budget Transfers
Information
distributed prior to the meeting. Mr.
Paradise reviewed the following bids:
Bid No. 03-29 Data
Center Electrical Upgrade
Bid
Amount: $26,504.00
The
bid is for installation of electrical equipment awarded under Bid 03-31.
Bid No. 03-31 Data Center Electrical Upgrade
Bid Amount:
$46,146.00
The bid is for electrical equipment for
District Office Data Center to replace existing main power
equipment and add a
back-up
power capability.
The
two bids and Budget Transfer Report No. 03-8 (Working Copy) will be
presented for approval at the June 26th Public Meeting.
g)
Adoption of Budget for 2003-2004
·
Loan
for Elementary Computers
Mr.
Wilson advised that further reductions have been implemented and at the
last meeting the proposed millage increase was 34.1.
Mr. Wilson advised that with the prepayment of the Blue Cross/Blue
Shield payment the anticipated millage increase would be 28.5 mills. Mr. Wilson further advised that the elementary computers to
be purchased are included in that figure.
Mr. Wilson stated that should the Board wish to fund the computers
over a four year period it would be an additional 1.97 mills tax break.
Mr.
Paradise advised that the fuel oil bid was delayed this year due to the
war, and the district is under budget $112,000 for diesel fuel and
$191,000 for fuel oil. These
figures could offset the cost of the elementary computer labs.
Mr.
Schoenstadt inquired regarding the proposed changes to the AE and music
programs. Mr. Wilson
responded that what is happening at Heckman and Hoover is not occurring in
any other school and it is extremely unfair.
The reason why these schools have more services than any other
school in the district is due to the fact that they do not have enough
academically enriched students. The academically enriched teachers are doing a wonderful job
working with other students. Mr.
Wilson stated if the Board wants to put Heckman and Hoover back in, then
he would insist that one teacher is put at every elementary school which
would equate to $700,000.
Mr.
Schoenstadt questioned why the district is taking the academically
talented students and putting them at a disadvantage.
Why are we taking the teachers that teach the gifted in this
district and putting them at a disadvantage?
Mr. Schoenstadt noted that it is difficult to conduct the program
properly when teachers need to travel from school to school
Dr.
Spitz noted that he has spent hours speaking with Dr. Muenker regarding
the gifted program and Dr. Spitz fully appreciates the concerns that are
being raised. Dr. Spitz noted
that Heckman and Hoover are the only two schools that have full time
enrichment teachers. Due to
the overall decline in enrollment, those teachers spend less then half
their time actually teaching identified AE students.
The rest of the time is spent doing enrichment activities
throughout the schools, which is very beneficial.
However, as Mr. Wilson noted it is very unfair.
Dr. Spitz noted that he would love to put a full time enrichment
teacher at every school; however, the reality is that the program would
need to be redesigned if the enrichment activities would continue for non
identified students. Dr.
Spitz advised that from a purely financial standpoint he cannot support
adding six additional staff so that equity exists amongst the buildings.
Dr. Spitz further noted that the numbers in the AE program are
declining. The rubric for
identifying students has not changed and it was specifically suggested to
the district by the Pennsylvania Department of Education.
Dr. Spitz felt that the identification of students by the district
could be done quicker. Dr. Spitz stated that the Education Development Committee
will examine the AE curriculum. Dr.
Spitz further noted that next year the district will be audited by the
state, which will include the gifted program, and the state will certainly
come back with a series of recommendations.
Mrs.
Bostwick inquired whether the district is flexible enough so that if the
AE numbers increase could the district adapt without adding additional
teachers and Mr. Wilson responded that was correct.
Mr.
Schoenstadt noted that back in the 80’s each school had a gifted teacher
and the students were tested and identified within thirty (30) days of
registration and the district is not currently doing that.
Mr. Schoenstadt stated that an equal amount of resources has not
been spent on the gifted children.
Mr.
Wilson advised the Board that the gifted program is no longer afforded the
same rights as under IDEA. Multiple criteria exists to obtain entrance into the gifted
program, which the state recommended during the district’s last program
review.
·
Teacher questionnaire
·
Parent questionnaire
·
Standardized
Test scores
·
IQ
test
Mr.
Wilson noted that all four (4) of the criteria must be met.
Mr. Wilson noted that years ago the criteria for the gifted program
was the 90th percentile on standardized test scores, the
district now goes to the 80th percentile.
Mr. Wilson noted that 15% of the general population is not gifted.
The delays are occurring due to the fact that there are multiple
criteria. Mr. Wilson noted
that when a parent signs for permission to evaluate it takes forty-five
(45) days, however a student will not be placed into the program just on
the basis of an IQ of 130, all the multiple criteria must be met.
Ms.
Drioli stated that the gifted child needs to have special programs and
criteria, as does the special education student.
However, if a student is missing the program due to a couple of
points, then the student is not truly mentally gifted.
Possibly if the average student was taken aside and worked with on
a one to one basis, they too would be possible candidates for the gifted
program. Can the district
afford this?
Mrs.
Butville noted that special education is mandated by the state, the
district is mandated to provide the services and the district is required
to fund those programs.
Dr.
Boccuti addressed the music program and advised that there is a total
proposed cut in the music program of one (1) position, which equates to .2
at Maple Point, .4 at Poquessing and .4 at Sandburg.
Dr. Boccuti advised that this .2 is one period of one teacher.
At Poquessing and Sandburg it is recommended due to the size of the
instrumental music program, which is generating lesson groups of one to
two students. The program was
not built on private music lessons. The
proposed cuts would increase the lesson groups for instrumental music from
1-2 up to the area of six (6) students per lesson.
Dr.
Spitz noted that Mr. Wyatt is working on the scheduling of the music
program and if possible the district will provide the same program with
one less staff member. Dr.
Spitz noted that he received correspondence from a staff member at Maple
Point and virtually all the negative impacts have to do with scheduling
conflicts. Dr. Spitz noted
that there will be no cuts in musicals, spring and winter concerts,
ensembles, etc.
7.
Superintendent’s Report
Mr.
Wilson advised that the following Resolution signed by all nine board
members will be forwarded to Governor Rendell:
Neshaminy School
District
Resolution Regarding
Campaign Promises 2002
Whereas, during the
election campaign of 2002, numerous campaign promises, including 50% state
funding for local school districts, were made by candidates relative to
the need for increased funding by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to
support the state constitutional mandate of a thorough and efficient
system of public education, and
Whereas, without the
fulfillment of such promises the ever-increasing burden of realty property
taxes will remain onerous and intolerable, and
Whereas, the elections
have concluded and it is now time to fulfill and turn promises into
legislative action,
Now, Therefore, Be It
Resolved by the Board of School Directors of the Neshaminy School
District that correspondence be directed to Governor Edward Rendell and to
the Bucks County legislative delegation requesting fulfillment of the
aforementioned campaign promises, together with a copy of this Resolution,
and that said Resolution and the correspondence responsive thereto be
placed on PennLink for perusal of all other school districts with the
Commonwealth, with the request of said districts that they, too, adopt
similar resolutions and direct similar correspondence to Governor Edward
Rendell and their local legislative delegations.
Copies
of the resolution will be forwarded to the local newspapers and Board
members.
8.
Committee
Reports
a)
Board Policies
Meeting
was canceled for this upcoming week.
b)
Educational Development
Dr.
Spitz advised discussions ensued regarding lead teachers and textbooks.
PSSA discussions will continue in the fall.
c)
Finance/Facilities
Mr.
Soifer advised a meeting will be scheduled when the direction of the bond
issue is determined.
d)
IU Board
Ms.
Drioli advised there was no report.
e)
Educational Foundation
Dr.
Spitz advised a meeting will be held this upcoming Monday and a site was
found for the fall fundraiser. Dr.
Spitz is working with the Solicitor regarding the Alumni directory.
f)
Technical School
Mrs.
Butville stated the budget was passed and graduation will take place on
Friday, June 13th.
g)
Technology
Mr.
Stack advised there was no report.
Mr.
Paradise noted that graduation will be broadcast live.
Mr. Paradise also noted that Robert Fleck, Tax Collector of
Langhorne Borough, expressed an interest in not collecting the taxes.
Langhorne Borough is responsible for appointing a replacement,
however, if an appointment is not made it is Mr. Paradise’s
responsibility as School Board Treasurer to appoint someone to collect
taxes. Mr. Paradise stated
that if the Borough does not appoint a replacement, Mr. Paradise would
appoint Berkheimer to collect the taxes for Langhorne Borough.
Mr. Paradise noted that Berkheimer would charge approximately
$4,500 to collect the school tax and per capita taxes for the year.
9.
Future
Topics
Mr.
Schoenstadt stated that he would like to see an analysis of the cost
savings that would evolve with the elimination of tax collectors.
10.
Agenda Development for
June 26, 2003 Public Meeting
13.
Correspondence
The
Board Secretary advised that there was no correspondence.
Adjournment
Ms.
Drioli moved the meeting be adjourned and Mrs. Jowett seconded the motion.
The Board unanimously approved the motion.
Mrs. Bostwick adjourned the meeting at 9:10 p.m.
Respectively
submitted,
Anita
E. Walls
Board Secretary |
