Time, Place, and Members Present

The School Board of School District 549C of the County of Jackson, State of Oregon, convened in a regular session, in the South Medford High School Cafeteria, 815 S. Oakdale Avenue, Medford, Oregon, in said district, at the hour of 7:00 PM, on the 20^th day of February 2007.  The following were present:

Board Member

District Personnel

Eric Dziura

Phil Long, Superintendent

Mike Moran

Kent Stephens, Chief Financial Officer

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Larry Nicholson

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Todd Bloomquist, Director-Curriculum/Assessment

Peggy Penland

Doug Jantzi, Directory-Secondary Education

Tricia Prendergast

Rich Miles, Director-Elementary Education

Robin Stroh

Julie York, Director-Student Services

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Cynthia Wright

Dan Zaklan, Director-Human Resources

Cherie Gravon, Administrative Assistant

Also present:  Patrons, parents, students, MEA representatives, and Sodexho employees. 

Vice-Chair Moran called the meeting to order at 7:00 PM and conducted the flag salute.

Correspondence

Superintendent Long reported on a letter sent to Principal Sallie Johnson, congratulating Howard Elementary School for being named a recipient of the 2007 Celebrating Student Success Award, given by the Oregon Department of Education.  Howard staff representatives will be recognized at the Closing the Achievement Gap Conference and Banquet to be held at the Oregon Convention Center on May 11, 2007.  Dr. Long explained this is the fourth year of the District investment of Reading First Schools, which is yielding remarkable accomplishments.  He asked Mrs. Wright to share her thoughts on her visit to Howard.  Mrs. Wright commented this is a huge accomplishment and was please to visit with staff.  She reported she had previously been to Howard to meet with staff regarding the District mission and vision but during this visit, she wanted to let them know the Board appreciates their accomplishment. 

Dr. Long reported Susan Castillo rode the bus from Eugene to Medford to participate in what school teams experience with the new alignment of athletic teams.

Dr. Long referred to a letter Ms. Amy Tiger received informing her that the Oregon Reading Association had selected McLoughlin Middle School to receive the Exemplary Reading Program Award for 2007.  They will receive a monetary award and complimentary registrations for the ORA conference, among other benefits extended to staff.  He said McLoughlin is making impressive gains in literacy and reading at the middle school level.

Awards and Recognition

Mr. Moran introduced former Medford School District Board member, Doreen Goins.

Student Recognition-Kennedy Elementary:  Principal Janis Shade introduced Molly Mulhollen and Emily Carlson as the outstanding students representing Kennedy Elementary School.  Mrs. Koehler, teacher, was on hand for the presentation.

Student Recognition-Roosevelt:  Principal Anne Mitchell introduced Rachel Warren and Bryson Nelson as the outstanding students representing Roosevelt Elementary School.  Amanda Pierson and Drew Amann, teachers, were present.

Oregon School Board Association Leadership Recognition of the Medford School District School Board:  Betsy Miller-Jones, Associate Director of OSBA, explained the OSBA staff travels to Board meetings during the month of January to present Leadership Institute Awards.  She distributed a press release and flyer, noting this is the third year the Medford School District Board has earned this recognition, an outstanding accomplishment. 

Student Reports

North Medford High School:  Roberto Adame reported the drama production of Antigone is starts Thursday and will run through Saturday.  He announced Garrett Frierson, a senior, had earned a regional finalist scholarship award of $10,000 in the Coca-Cola Scholars Program, noting he was one of only 250 high school seniors nationwide to achieve this status out of 88,000 who had applied.  Roberto explained Garrett will travel to Atlanta, Georgia in April to interview for a chance to be awarded one of fifty scholarships of $20,000.  He added this honor is a first in NMHS history.  Roberto reported the North Key Club plans to hold a Mr. North pageant, which has generated much interest for this March activity and shared there will be a North High choral presentation at 7:00 PM, on March 13.

South Medford High School:  Gavin Millette shared South held the Morp last week, which yielded over $2000 and received good feedback from students.  He reported a rally was held last Friday and many new students were involved in the planning.  Gavin commented South spirit is at an all time high.  He reported many organizations are calling regarding the Community 101 grants.  He noted students are still conducting the raffle for a PT Cruiser, collecting cell phones for soldiers, and students are making an effort to clean up the school.  Gavin shared spring sports are beginning and the state boys’ basketball championships are coming up and students hope to be there.  He announced the girls’ basketball team has received support from students.  Gavin added they are looking forward to the Milli Vanilli event; they are planning a silhouette hallway activity, and a hello hallway event.  He said work continues in the planning of the academic awards, and he reported the bowling and swimming teams are going to state.  In conclusion, Gavin reported South will conduct bathroom makeovers, which will be a class competition. 

Board Committee Reports

Communication

• Community – Peggy Penland:  Mrs. Penland said she had followed up with key contacts regarding establishing regular meetings with City Council representatives and announced the meetings will take place on the second Tuesday of the month, with the first scheduled for a lunch meeting on March 14.  She commented she plans to work with the county representatives as well.  She reported on her trip with Mrs. Prendergast, Chair Nicholson, and Mr. Dziura to the legislative conference, in which they discussed abolishment of the double majority, reduction of class sizes, and a proposed health insurance pool.  Mrs. Prendergast commented it was nice to hear the legislators say this will be a more friendly legislative session, adding she has a greater understanding of health insurance pooling.  Mr. Dziura expressed concern with funding adequacy and stability, sharing the stability may have more focus at this time as it seems to be supported on both sides of aisle with conversion of the corporate kicker.  He emphasized the funding adequacy issue has a  large alliance of individuals who want a budget increase to 6.3 billion, although it appears it will most likely remain at the proposed level.  Mr. Dziura noted schools would be funded at 85% of the quality education model if the budget were at 6.3 billion.  Mrs. Penland reported the legislative conference was more focused as they had revised the agenda this year.  Mrs. Prendergast commented the corporate kicker issue would affect businesses over $500,000, and Mr.  Dziura said it would exempt the small business under $500,000.
• District – Cynthia Wright:  Mrs. Wright reported she had received an invitation from Kennedy to participate in their Read Across America event.  She encouraged volunteers to contact Diane Winchell, if interested.

• Facilities – Peggy Penland, Tricia Prendergast:    Mrs. Penland said she had participated in the interviews for project manager and she had reported this information at the last meeting.  She announced more information will be forthcoming
• Finance – Larry Nicholson, Robin Stroh:  No report this evening.

Foundation – Tricia Prendergast:  Mrs. Prendergast reported the executive committee met today and the Foundation is moving ahead with fundraising plans.  She expressed they are trying to get the web site functioning and will be hiring an individual to improve this function.  She shared they are looking for photos to use in their campaign and commented there will be a full color brochure coming out soon. 

Policy Review – Mike Moran, Robin Stroh, Eric Dziura: No report this evening.

School Improvement

• Continuous Improvement Plan – Tricia Prendergast, Eric Dziura:  No report this evening.
•  OSSI Liaison/NMHS – Cynthia Wright:  Mrs. Wright stated North is working toward opening a modified Medford Opportunity High School as a small school and hope to provide opportunities for students to obtain credits based on proficiency.  She explained this extends the educational opportunities of this school to students interested in accomplishing this specific goal, in addition to students seeking an alternative to regular daytime school.  Mrs. Wright said they believe they will present their proposal to the Board this spring.  She said Karen Phillips, from OSSI, had visited North and expressed concern about the roll out plan and whether they would be able to continue in the small school program.  A letter of commitment, signed by the District, must be signed by April.  Mrs. Wright commented she would like to schedule a study session soon regarding this issue.  She explained Paula Kinney will be coming to Medford on Thursday and she hopes to meet with her.  The Board Vice-Chair agreed a study session is needed.  Mr. Moran commented there are two meetings in March and perhaps one of the study sessions could be used for this purpose.  Mrs. Stroh said the North staff is making an effort to address the problem and she would like to meet with Paula Kinney as well.
• OSSI Liaison/SMHS – Robin Stroh:  No report this evening. 

Board Comments: 

Mrs. Penland commented it was nice to be at the capitol with fellow Board members.  Mrs. Prendergast expressed it was encouraging to see a strong contingent from Jackson County involved in Stand for Children, noting the Governor and Susan Castillo were there.

Mrs. Wright said she had been reflecting on the recent accomplishments at Howard and McLoughlin.  She said with the development of the District mission and vision, it brought about a change in the educational focus and she believes positive things are happening in the District.

Visitors and Delegations

Name

Parent & School or

Group Affiliation

Topic

Rich Hobbins

SMHS Swim Coach

Concerned that SOU is closing pool on June 30, and is looking to generate support in the community to keep the pool open, as it is the last competitive pool in the valley resulting in no location for a District meet.  SOU is a community pool and this has been their best year in swimming at South.

Agenda Adjustments

Addition(s): 

Adjustment(s):   Revised 12-C by adding Wells Fargo personal services at $83,170.74 to the purchasing report.

Deletion(s): 

Consent Agenda

It was moved by Mrs. Penland and seconded by Mr. Dziura to approve the consent agenda as presented.

Personnel: 

Resignations:

Amann, Angela – Elementary teacher on leave for 2007-07, resign 6/14/07

Minutes:

§         Study Session and Board meeting on February 6, 2007

Motion Carried:

       6 – Yes  (Dziura, Moran, Penland, Prendergast, Stroh, Wright)

       0 –  No

Action Agenda

Southern Oregon Education Service District - Local Service Plan / Resolution Programs and Services for 2007/2008:  Dr. Long explained that Mr. Boyarsky had come to the Board study session on February 6.  He indicated it is his recommendation to approve the following resolutions:

-          Resolution 1 – Technology and Media Services

-          Resolution 2 – School Improvement

-          Resolution 3 – Special Education

It was moved by Mr. Dziura and seconded by Mrs. Prendergast to approve the Southern Oregon Education Service District Local Service Plan Resolution Programs and Services 2007-2008 as presented.  (Copy of resolutions attached and by this reference fully set out.)

Mrs. Penland asked which of the services Medford uses and Dr. Long explained services such as the professional technical approval process has been a benefit to the District.  He reported the area of special needs is used extensively and many of the programs are housed in Medford Schools.  Additionally, he noted Medford Schools work collaboratively with the SOESD in the area of technology, media, and network services.  Superintendent Long explained many Education Service Districts provide many more services, but this is what our area districts use.  Mrs. Penland asked about cash in lieu of service and Dr. Long said the bulk of this goes to other districts.  Mrs. Penland expressed she would like to watch the use of services, although she strongly supports the local ESD.  Dr. Long added this is why the resolutions are revisited every year.

Motion Carried:

       6 – Yes  (Dziura, Moran, Penland, Prendergast, Stroh, Wright)

       0 –  No

Charter School Contract between Medford School District 549C and Madrone Trail Initiative to form the Madrone Trail Public Charter School:

Dr. Long went over the contract and commented on one change that was made by the Board during the study session that dealt with parents as volunteers.  He revised the contract to provide more clarity to the fact that parents may not be required to serve as volunteers.

It was moved by Mrs. Wright and seconded by Mrs. Prendergast to approve the Charter School Contract between Medford School District 549C and Madrone Trail Initiative to form the Madrone Trail Public Charter School as presented.  (Copy of contract attached and by this reference fully set out.)

Superintendent Long expressed this matter was greatly discussed and evaluated by the Board as it is a significant step for the District and community.  He said in essence, the Madrone Trail Public Charter School will be under the District umbrella.  He expressed it is his concern that all young children in the community are served and acknowledged Danielle Anderson, charter school Board member.  Mrs. Anderson introduced Sue Carroll and Jennifer Tudor.  Mrs. Wright commented that there may be some charter school experiences in the state that have not been as professional as this experience has been for Medford.  She shared she is excited there may be some children that may have their needs met in an alternative environment.  Mrs. Prendergast stated she had heard from OSBA that compared to other proposals, this one excels.  She expressed it is easy to focus on students within our walls and not see those that are in an alternative environment.  Mrs. Penland stated she appreciates the work of Superintendent Long in development of the contract.  She said she will be voting no on the motion.  She added the majority of those who spoke during the charter school public hearing did not reside in the District, adding she would have preferred to see a charter school in an area, which would provide a greater benefit to the District.  Mr. Moran commented this had been a true learning opportunity and he greatly appreciated Mrs. Penland’s insight and the Madrone Trail representative’s effort to provide information. 

Motion Carried:

       4 – Yes  (Dziura, Moran, Prendergast, Wright)

       2 –  No  (Penland, Stroh)

Superintendent Long said he will obtain the signatures and forward the document to OSBA for review.

Purchasing Report for Purchases over $75,000 – February 20, 2007:

Dr. Long reported board policy guidelines state the Board must review all purchases over $75,000.  He explained with the large bond in November, staff will be reviewing all projects in more formal assessments and attending to key issues as the District does not want to overlook anything.  He emphasized the District representatives do not want to renovate something that does not need renovation.  Superintendent Long went over the items listed on the purchasing memo and entertained questions.  It was clarified that representatives have met with teachers and administrators as to how to structure the South High program.  It was shared that some buildings at North may be salvaged, and they may incur more expense than initially believed.  Dr. Long stressed it is imperative to conduct these assessments with mechanical and structural engineers.  It was explained these individuals will be managed by District personnel.

Superintendent Long said these assessments will help to determine the sale of the bond structure to the best extent we can as the District plans to leverage the funds to benefit the District.  It was announced there will be water to Griffin Creek by fall.  A concern with the past West Side water management was expressed and Mr. Button said the District plans to be involved with the management of water lines to Griffin Creek.

Dr. Long reported that last year the Board approved a one-year extension with Laidlaw.  He stated fuel costs are a consideration and it would be beneficial to establish fixed costs in a three or four-year Laidlaw contract extension.  It was the consensus of the Board to implement a four-year contract.  Superintendent Long asked Mr. Jantzi to report on trip costs.  Mr. Jantzi shared the new contract will actually result in a reduction in coach costs.  He stated the District in the past has specified MCI coaches but it is possible to use newer coaches that are not MCI.  He noted these do no include restrooms but can be better in long run.  It was reported Laidlaw will begin to attempt a charter type service but

the District will assure the expressed language is very clear the District has the first priority for scheduling.  Mr. Jantzi added this will offset costs to the District. 

There were some concerns expressed about the snow day and late arrivals of students to their homes in the afternoon.  Mr. Miles expressed he had a conversation with Laidlaw and the new manager is very open, receptive, and wants any problems to be expressed to her.  He said the snow day and transportation issues had been debriefed by administration and Laidlaw.  Dr.  Long explained the District watches weather forecasts in anticipation of snow and the District and Laidlaw have people out assessing the situation early in the morning.

Dr. Long stated the bond sale had been a competitive process and the District plans to use bond counsel for guidance in the upcoming bond sales.  He noted the financial advisory services of Dale Okerlund are his services to date, and the District has financially benefited because of his expertise.  He noted Mr. Okerlund will attend the Board meeting on March 20.

It was moved by Mrs. Penland and seconded by Mrs. Prendergast to approve the Purchasing Report for Purchases over $75,000 – February 20, 2007, as presented and approves the selection of a four-year contract for Laidlaw.  (Copy of document attached and by this reference fully set out.)

Motion Carried:

       6 – Yes  (Dziura, Moran, Penland, Prendergast, Stroh, Wright)

       0 –  No

Sodexho Food Service Update:   Mr. Jeff Ashmun, Sodexho Director, provided an annual update of food service in Medford Schools.  He commented their new slogan is making everyday a better one.  He noted breakfast service has increased in participation and lunch service shows a 3% increase with a consistent growth pattern.  Mr. Ashmun said they have made deliberate decisions by discontinuing some unhealthy items and the total meals have increased over the last year.  He stated food service had an interesting opportunity when pipes broke in the Oak Grove kitchen and they were able to step up and continue service without the kitchen or water.  Mr. Miles commented Principal Julie Evans was appreciative of their outstanding efforts.  Mr. Ashmun said staff is making an effort to keep kids on the high school campuses and implemented a chopsticks cart, which offers a teriyaki bowl.  He reported the At-Risk supper program use is increasing and they have added some snack programs in a partnership with four YMCA after school programs.  Mr. Ashmun said they continue to use of whole grains, in addition to providing generous offerings of fruits and vegetables.  He explained they offer the students healthy choices with lower fat familiar foods, by baking not frying, and with more vegetarian options.  Mr. Ashmun reported the A-Z Salad Bars continue and invited the Board to the next event, which will be held on May 8, at Wilson.  He mentioned he had participated in an interview with JPR and introduced Steven Fitzpatrick as a new Food Service Manager.

Superintendent’s Report:  Dr. Long reported the District had sold 40 million dollars in bonds today in Portland and explained there were no zero coupon bonds, but included some premium bonds.  He explained the District had conservatively planned for a 4.74 percent cent interest rate, which was actually realized at 4.35.  He noted that compared to other bonds sold and other negotiated sales, the District was able to leverage extra revenue at an extremely competitive rate.  Board members expressed appreciation to Mr. Stephens for implementing a new process in the Medford School District.  Superintendent Long said it was reassuring to know that organizations want to buy our bonds and the District may next go with a negotiated sale of bonds.

Human Resources Report:  Dr. Zaklan reported the Human Resources Department has started to receive interest in the principal vacancies and administrators will be participating in the upcoming teacher recruiting fairs.

Business and Facilities Report:   Mr. Scott Whitman referred to the Board financial report contained in the Board packet.  He stated the revenue is on track and expenses are under budget at this point.  He emphasized the District is close to the projections.  Mrs. Penland said she had met with Mr. Whitman and Mr. Stephens regarding the impact on schools of the potential loss of forest fees. 

Curriculum and Instruction Report:   Mr. Bloomquist said he had traveled to Salem for work with the Comprehensive Guidance and Counseling group.  He reported the Social Science team, both K-8 and 9-12, are scheduled to meet soon.

Student Services Report:   No report this evening.

Elementary Education Report:  Mr. Miles said he was pleased to report they are on the track for a test phase of PAL for elementary schools.  He explained teachers will soon be able to input grades at home.  Mrs. Prendergast said that about a year ago her perception was that parents were checking grades and now it appears the students are signing on to check their own grades. 

Dr. Long reported there had been a truss failure at the Ruch gym.  He said in the process of assigning the project the contractor did not adequately plan for the prevailing wage costs. Mr. Button further explained that once the trusses were exposed it was determined that three trusses were failing. Delays in materials added to the costs as well.  Dr. Long explained that by the time the project was complete these factors raised the cost to over $75,000. Mrs. Penland suggested an email regarding such developments as they arise.

Secondary Education Report:  Mr. Jantzi reported the high schools are looking at schedules cooperatively and he plans to bring the schedules to the next Board meeting.  He noted he had learned some new facts regarding instructional hours and schedules.  He shared the elementary and secondary departments are addressing staffing for next year, with Dr. Zaklan’s assistance.  

Board Comments and Announcements

No additional comments were made this evening.

Announcements

ü      Budget Committee Meeting:  February 27, 2007 – Hedrick Media Center

ü      School Board Meeting:  7 PM, Tuesday, March 6, 2007 – SMHS Cafeteria

Adjournment

The meeting was adjourned at 8:40 PM.

Chair of the District School Board

Medford School District 549C

Jackson County, Oregon

ATTEST:

Our Mission:

We are a high quality teaching and learning organization dedicated to preparing all students to graduate with a sound educational foundation, ready to succeed in post-secondary education, and to be contributing community members.

Superintendent-Clerk