MINUTES OF THE PATERSON BOARD OF EDUCATION REGULAR MEETING. December 21, :10 p.m. John F. Kennedy High School

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1 MINUTES OF THE PATERSON BOARD OF EDUCATION REGULAR MEETING December 21, :10 p.m. John F. Kennedy High School Presiding: Comm. Willa Mae Taylor, President Present: Dr. Donnie Evans, State District Superintendent Dr. Marguerite Vanden Wyngaard, Deputy Superintendent Leslie Saint, Esq., General Counsel Comm. Chrystal Cleaves Comm. Wendy Guzman Comm. Jonathan Hodges Comm. Christopher Irving Comm. Errol Kerr Comm. Alex Mendez, Vice President Comm. Pedro Rodriguez Comm. Kenneth Simmons The Salute to the Flag was led by Comm. Taylor. Comm. Taylor read the Open Public Meetings Act: The New Jersey Open Public Meetings Act was enacted to insure the right of the public to have advance notice of, and to attend the meetings of the Paterson Public School District, as well as other public bodies at which any business affecting the interest of the public is discussed or acted upon. In accordance with the provisions of this law, the Paterson Public School District has caused notice of this meeting: Regular Meeting December 21, 2011 at 7:00 p.m. John F. Kennedy High School Preakness Avenue Paterson, New Jersey to be published by having the date, time and place posted in the office of the City Clerk of the City of Paterson, at the entrance of the Paterson Public School offices, on the district s website, and by sending notice of the meeting to the Arab Voice, El Diario, the Italian Voice, the North Jersey Herald & News, and The Record. PRESENTATIONS AND COMMUNICATIONS Discussion on Internal Audit Report Findings on Early Childhood Provider St. Joseph s RMC Child Care for the Fiscal Year Discussion on the Review of Chapter 192/193 Auxiliary Services to Non Public Students for FY REPORT OF STATE DISTRICT SUPERINTENDENT Page 1 12/21/11

2 REPORT OF BOARD PRESIDENT PUBLIC COMMENTS It was moved by Comm. Irving, seconded by Comm. Rodriguez that the Public Comments portion of the meeting be opened. On roll call all members voted in the affirmative. The motion carried. There were two (2) speakers from the public. It was moved by Comm. Mendez, seconded by Comm. Rodriguez that the Public Comments portion of the meeting be closed. On roll call all members voted in the affirmative. The motion carried. BOARD COMMENTS GENERAL BUSINESS Items Requiring a Vote PRESENTATION OF MINUTES Comm. Taylor presented the minutes of the October 27, 2011 Special Joint Meeting, the November 2, 2011 Workshop Meeting, the November 2, 2011 Executive Session, the November 14, 2011 Board Retreat, the November 16, 2011 Regular Meeting, the November 16, 2011 Regular Meeting-Transcript, and the November 16, 2011 Executive Session, and asked if there were any questions or comments on the minutes. It was moved by Comm. Mendez, seconded by Comm. Guzman that the minutes be accepted with any necessary corrections. On roll call all members voted in the affirmative. The motion carried. CURRICULUM AND INSTRUCTION COMMITTEE Comm. Irving: Just to add for the folks who are in the audience asking about the World Languages, Dr. Evans through Dr. V I do know has asked many of the educators in our district who presented the World Languages over the last few weeks to help her and serve on a more or less advisory committee. Dr. V, is it safe to call that an advisory committee? So there are members of our community who have advocated for this and who are now serving on a committee to help give direction with regard to World Languages. I think that is a way as a committee and as a community to move forward in taking not just the comments from community members, but also using them as resources. These folks are educators and teachers in World Languages and they bring an expertise. I m glad to see that Dr. V is using that expertise to kind of help and reshape what we re looking to do. As the Board knows, the curriculum committee met almost three weeks ago. We had lengthy discussion on A-1 through A-19, but we recently have added two more items. In my opinion, they are the most pressing of the items after having discussed them at the workshop. A-21, which is the NFL grant, the Board members should have received a copy of this to their homes. So if there are any questions on any of the action items, I will entertain them. I will just ask the first question to Dr. Evans about A-21. Comm. Irving reported that the Curriculum and Instruction Committee met, reviewed and recommends approval for Resolution Nos. A-1 through A-21: Page 2 12/21/11

3 Resolution No. A-1 WHEREAS, the consolidated application for FY11/12, IDEA-B Basic funds, in the amount of $6,356,807 and IDEA Pre-School funds, in the amount of $184,483 is anticipated to be expended within the following categories: CATEGORIES IDEA-B BASIC IDEA PRE-SCHOOL 1. Instructional salaries $ 396,000 $ 56, Instructional supplies and services 111,130 4, Tuition 4,875, Administrative/support services 292,363 9, Benefits 104,856 43, Support services and supplies 572,858 70, Equipment 4, Other $6,356,807 $184,483 WHEREAS, there are no matching funds requirement within this grant; and WHEREAS, the Assistant Superintendent for Early Childhood and Special Programs will be responsible for the district complying with the terms and conditions of the grant and will make every effort to target grant funds for the academic advancement and achievement of the students and expend the funds in the most effective manner; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Paterson Public Schools Board of Education supports the submission of the consolidated FY 11/12 application and accepts the funds from IDEA-B Basic in the amount of $6,356,807 and IDEA Preschool in the amount of $184,483 for the purposes stated above. Resolution No. A-2 was pulled. Resolution No. A-3 Department of Early Childhood Program: Preschool Enrollment and Budget Projections Workbook for the School Year Introduction: Approval is being requested to submit District One Year Preschool Enrollment and budget Projections Workbook for the school year. WHEREAS, the Paterson Public School District is required by P.L.2007, c.260 and N.J.A.C. 6A:13A to offer a preschool program to eligible three- and four-year-old children; and WHEREAS, the Supreme Court ordered the implementation of a full day, full year preschool services beginning September 1999 for resident three- and four-year-old children in districts formerly known as Abbott. The Paterson Early Childhood Preschool Program serves approximately 3,500 children at a ratio of 2 adults and 15 children for a 10 hour day consisting of six hours and fifty-five minutes of instruction and three and one half hours of wrap-around services. The collaborative consists of 30 Community Providers and five in-district sites: School #18, School #1, School #21, Dale Avenue and the Madison K Center at the New Roberto Clemente School; and WHEREAS, the Paterson Public Schools Early Childhood Department has a Board Approved Five-Year Preschool Program Plan (approved November 19, 2008, Page 3 12/21/11

4 Resolution number A-2). The purpose of the plan is to provide a comprehensive description of how the school district will implement each component of a high quality preschool plan for three and four year old children for the school years through , as detailed in New Jersey Administrative Code (N.J.A.C. 6A:13A) and in the Preschool Program Implementation Guidelines; and WHEREAS, the District must submit the Preschool Enrollment and Budget Projections Workbook; now THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board of Education approves the submission of the Preschool Enrollment and the Early Childhood budget. The total Fiscal Year (FY) Early Childhood budget is $51,268,572 consisting of FY Preschool Education Aid award of $45,935,905, prior year Preschool Education Aid carryover of $5,238,667, the FY district preschool disabled contribution of $1,935,000 and an enrollment adjustment from school year ASSA count of ($1,841,000). Resolution No. A-4 WHEREAS, to award a renewal for RFP , Reading Specialist Endorsement Program for the December 1, 2012 through December 31, 2013 school year(s); and WHEREAS, this solicitation was made by advertised public notice appearing in The Record and The Herald News on September 10, A pre-bid conference was held on September 22, Sealed bids were opened and read aloud on October 6, 2009 at 11:00 AM in the PPS Conference Room, 4 th Floor, 90 Delaware Ave, Paterson, NJ by the Purchasing Department; and WHEREAS, Montclair State University was deemed as the most responsive and responsible vendor after the review of proposals, was awarded a 3-year contract from December 1, 2009 November 30, 2012, with a renewal option based on 18A:18A-42; and WHEREAS, based on a satisfactory performance since 2009, the Director of NCLB recommends that Montclair State University contract be extended 1-year in compliance with P.C.L. 5: at the same terms and conditions for the term December 1, 2012 December 31, 2013, with an increase of $ per credit which is within the allowable 20%; and WHEREAS, the commission schedules that were approved at the November 18, 2009 board meeting Resolution C-17 and will remain in effect for the term December 1, 2009 November 30, 2012 are as follows: NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the State District Superintendent supports the above mentioned recommendation to renew the contract for Reading Specialist Endorsement Program, RFP at the same terms and conditions as per proposal specifications RFP for the term December 1, 2012 December 31, 2013 to the following vendor: Montclair State University. The cost will not exceed $190, during the annual contract period. This resolution shall take effect with the approval signature of the State District Superintendent. Page 4 12/21/11

5 Resolution No. A-5 WHEREAS, the district intends to use the resources of Hanover Research to commission district wide research project, as well as, access to best practices outlined in the research commissioned by other members. To that end we will commission them to assist us in creating a sound infrastructure for survey development, implementation and analysis to benchmark both internal and external stakeholder satisfaction with district services, educational programming and culture and climate. Second, we intend to have Hanover design, research and report on the District Change Process currently being implemented in Last, we will access through their online Education Library effective practices and programmatic suggestions to assist us as we work to change educational programming for our students, such as Gifted and Talented and Foreign Language. As a large urban with limited resources, this allows us to have external research on our work within a budget that is fiscally sound; and WHEREAS, within the membership, members not clients pay an annual, fixed contribution that grants unlimited access to custom research requests, an online library, regular consultations, and on-demand assistance. This unique business model allows the members to allocate a single annual disbursement for these services, and eliminates the risk that unforeseen research projects will lack funding in the current fiscal year; and WHEREAS, Hanover Research is different from any other research service currently in practice, because all previously-commissioned research (copyrighted materials) is housed in an online as a searchable archive to its members. Furthermore, the subscription-based, shared-cost business model is distinct from those of traditional third-party research groups. To date, Hanover Research has completed over 5,000 projects for over 400 educational organizations ranging from Stamford University to America s Promise. They are currently working with over 120 school districts across the country including Baltimore, Cincinnati, Cleveland, Gwinnette, Albuquerque, Milwaukee, Madison, Mesa, San Antonio, Wichita and Norfolk; and WHEREAS, Hanover meets purchasing codes in many states since it produces and distributes copyrighted materials as the core of its service. The deliverables of Hanover are copyrighted reports in PDF, XCL, DOC formats that are the property of the company and are not to be distributed to any organization outside the membership; and WHEREAS, Hanover Research membership will begin July 1, 2011 through June 30, All research and services are available to Paterson Public Schools Administrators in unlimited amount; the signatory of this agreement services as our primary contract; now therefore BE IT RESOLVED, that the Paterson Board of Education approves the participation of this program in accordance with the agreement to be executed by the parties. ACCOUNT AMOUNT *New Money $34, Resolution No. A-6 Resolution of the State Operated School District of the City of Paterson, County of Passaic, State of New Jersey, authorizes the purchase of goods and/or services without public advertising for bidding pursuant to 18A:18A-5a(19): Page 5 12/21/11

6 WHEREAS, pursuant to 18A:18A-5a(19) the District is allowed to procure goods and/or services for the support and maintenance of proprietary computer software and hardware by resolution at a public meeting without public advertising for bids and bidding; and WHEREAS, through competitive contracting, RFP , the District acquired a web based software package from Pearson Digital of NCS Pearson for Students Grades Pre K-3 identified as at-risk and meet the criteria to participate in the Coordinated Early Intervening Services (C.E.I.S.) Program; and WHEREAS, C.E.I.S. program will need to procure annual software support services and professional development for the Pearson Digital Learning software for the school year; and WHEREAS, the procurement of the Pearson Partnership Consulting Package constitutes proprietary software applicable to the Pearson Educational Software for Students Grades Pre K-3 identified as at-risk and participating in the Coordinated Early Intervening Services (CEIS) Program at a price of $77,490.00; and WHEREAS, the awarding of this contract is in line with the Bright Futures Strategic Plan , Priority I: Effective Academic Programs, Goal 1: Increase Student Achievement; and WHEREAS, the vendor has been notified that no goods or services will be provided to the District without first receiving a fully executed purchase order; that the terms on the purchase order will be honored completely; if the vendor does not agree with the terms on the purchase order, the vendor will not provide any goods or services to the District until such time a new purchase order is completed and delivered with terms the vendor will honor; now THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Paterson Public Schools approves this resolution to Pearson Digital of NCS Pearson to provide the necessary software support services during the school year in the amount of not to exceed $77, This resolution shall take effect with the approval signature of the State District Superintendent. Resolution No. A-7 The School-Based Youth Services Program (SBYSP) at Eastside High School provided educational enhancement services, individual and family substance abuse counseling, leadership development, life skills development, health and nutrition counseling, antiviolence training workshops, employment counseling and placement, recreational and cultural activities, teen parenting and emergency child care services. WHEREAS, Youth Consultation Services will serve as the lead agency in the School- Based Youth Services Program at Eastside High School; and WHEREAS, the program at Eastside High School follows the state model for School- Based Youth Services; and WHEREAS, the New Jersey Department of Human Services grant is contingent upon the district s contribution to the program; now Page 6 12/21/11

7 THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Paterson Board of Education approve $74, to support the School-Based Youth Services Program at Eastside High School from September 1, 2011 through June 30, 2012, in accordance with an agreement to be executed by the parties. Not to exceed the amount: $74, Resolution No. A-8 WHEREAS, the Paterson Public School District is committed to providing Professional Development to all certified staff members. Current federal and state regulations require districts to align instructional objectives, teaching methods and local state standards. To ensure student in literacy, it is also required that school receive site-based professional development based on the needs of teachers and students. Paterson Public Schools understands that each district and each school within a district has particular and individual needs. Institute for Learning (IFL) is an institution that prides itself on its ability to provide specific research based instructional strategies that will afford staff members an opportunity to increase student achievement; and WHEREAS, the Paterson Public Schools District is dedicated to providing professional development that will improve the quality of teaching based on the recommendation of the State District Superintendent, the Office of Academic Support & NCLB and the Office of Staff Development and the district will continue to provide professional consults for appropriate services; and WHEREAS, the Institute for Learning (IFL) is an educational consulting firm specializing in site-based professional development. Their work is designed to increase student achievement and teacher capacity in language arts literacy and math. IFL will provide specific on-site language arts literacy and math instruction for staff and students at Public School Number 26 for the period of November 1, 2011 June 2012; and WHEREAS, the Paterson Public School District seeks to build capacity within the district for teachers to improve classroom instruction for all teachers and bridge the achievement gap for all students; now therefore BE IT RESOLVED, that the Paterson Public School District will hire the Institute for Learning (IFL) for in-service training presentations in the amount of $12, Resolution No. A-9 Paterson Public School #2, School Partnership with William Paterson University WHEREAS, the New Jersey Department of Education (NJDOE) has granted the ARRA funds under section 1003 (g) of the Elementary and Secondary Act (ESEA) to 11 Title I Schools In Need of Improvement; and WHEREAS, School #2 has not made Adequate Yearly Progress in the SPED and ESL/Bilingual subgroup; and WHEREAS, the intent of Paterson Public School #2 is to implement strategic and rigorous best practices that will support academic achievement in ESL/Bilingual and with the SPED self contained population, through coaching, modeling of best practices and professional development; and WHEREAS, Paterson Public Schools is dedicated to improving academic achievement for all students; and Page 7 12/21/11

8 WHEREAS, the vendor has been notified that no goods or services will be provided to the District without first receiving a fully executed purchase order, that the terms on the purchase order will be honored completely; if the vendor does not agree with the terms on the purchase order, the vendor will not provide any goods or services to the District until such time a new purchase order is completed and delivered with terms the vendor will honor; and WHEREAS, the services herein were in the original budget and funding for the same are available; now therefore BE IT RESOLVED, that the Paterson Board of Education approves the contract with Paterson Public School #2 and William Paterson University to provide one (1) Part Time Professor in Residence specializing in teaching SPED teachers and one (1) Part Time Professor in Residence specializing in teaching ESL/Bilingual teachers. As such, the Consultants will facilitate the participation of the WPU dean, associate dean, and WPU PIR in the advisory committee that will meet with Paterson Public School #2 stakeholders a minimum of once a semester or as needed. The Professor in Residence specializing in ESL/Bilingual will meet with the ESL/Bilingual teachers for 16 sessions for coaching, professional development and modeling of best practices in literacy. The Professor in Residence specializing in SPED will meet with SPED teachers for 16 sessions for coaching, PD on inclusion and modeling of best practices in literacy. The total for services to be rendered is for an amount not to exceed $5,000 for ESL/Bilingual and $4,000 for SPED for the period beginning January 2, 2012 through June 30, Total not to exceed: $9, Resolution No. A-10 Edward W. Kilpatrick Partnership with William Paterson University WHEREAS, the New Jersey Department of Education (NJDOE) has granted the SIA(a) Funds under section 1003(g) of the Elementary and Secondary Act (ESEA) to 11 Title I schools in need of improvement; and WHEREAS, the intent of this grant is to direct these resources to support the implementation of designated federal improvement strategies; and WHEREAS, the vendor has been notified that no goods or services will be provided to the District without first receiving a fully executed purchase order, that the terms on the purchase order will be honored completely; if the vendor does not agree with the terms on the purchase order, the vendor will not provide any goods or services to the District until such time a new purchase order is completed and delivered with terms the vendor will honor; and WHEREAS, the services herein were in the original budget and funding for the same are available; now therefore BE IT RESOLVED, that the Paterson Board of Education approves the contract with Edward W. Kilpatrick School and William Paterson University to provide one (1) Professor in Residence to work with ELL, Special Education, language arts teachers depending on need. Consultant will facilitate the participation of the WPU dean, associate dean, and WPU PIR in the Edward W. Kilpatrick NCLB committee that will meet with EWK stakeholders a minimum of once a semester or as needed. Services rendered for an amount not to exceed $8, for the period beginning November 2011 through May 15, 2012; and Page 8 12/21/11

9 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that this resolution shall take effect with the approval signature of the State District Superintendent and is being provided to the Board for advisory purposes. Resolution No. A-11 Starlight Pediatric Home Care, Inc. WHEREAS, the District s second priority under the Strategic Plan is the creation of safe, caring and orderly schools; and WHEREAS, the Department of Early Childhood Education (DECE) has aligned its preschool education goals and efforts to create schools with healthy school cultures and climates; and WHEREAS, the district is required under N.J.A.C. 6A:14 to ensure that the services and placement needed by each student with a disability in order to receive a free, appropriate public education are based on the student s unique needs; and WHEREAS, the State District Superintendent has determined that the District is in need of individualized nursing services for a preschool student in accordance with the student s Individualized Education Program; and WHEREAS, Starlight Pediatric Home Care, Inc. represents that it is fully qualified to provide the services hereunder and has and will maintain all required licenses, approvals and certifications; and WHEREAS, the District Legal Counsel has reviewed the contract with Starlight Pediatric Home Care, Inc. and found the terms to be acceptable as written; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the District enter into a contract with Starlight Pediatric Home Care, Inc. to provide individualized nursing services at a cost of $40.00 per hour for a maximum of four (4) hours per day for a maximum of 126 school days for a total cost not to exceed $20, Resolution No. A-12 Bayada Nurses, Inc. WHEREAS, the District s second priority under the Strategic Plan is the creation of safe, caring and orderly schools; and WHEREAS, the Department of Early Childhood Education (DECE) has aligned its preschool education goals and efforts to create schools with healthy school cultures and climates; and WHEREAS, the district is required under N.J.A.C. 6A:14 to ensure that the services and placement needed by each student with a disability in order to receive a free, appropriate public education are based on the student s unique needs; and WHEREAS, the State District Superintendent has determined that the District is in need of individualized nursing services for a preschool student in accordance with the student s Individualized Education Program; and Page 9 12/21/11

10 WHEREAS, Bayada Nurses, Inc. represents that it is fully qualified to provide the services hereunder and has and will maintain all required licenses, approvals and certifications; and WHEREAS, the District Legal Counsel has reviewed the contract with Bayada Nurses, Inc. and found the terms to be acceptable as written; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the District enter into a contract with Bayada Nurses, Inc. to provide individualized nursing services at a cost of $40.00 per hour for a maximum of eight (8) hours per day for a maximum of 126 school days for a total cost not to exceed $40, Resolution No. A-13 WHEREAS, according to New Jersey Administrative Code 6A:14, the Paterson Public School District is required to place district students in an appropriate educational facility in accordance with their I.E.P.S.; and WHEREAS, the District wishes to remain compliant with state & federal requirements governing the education of classified students; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Paterson Public School District approves payment and contracts with Bayada Nurses, 146 Speedwell Ave, Morris Plains, NJ for providing nursing services for 1 Paterson student during the school year in accordance with their I.E.P.S. Student Initials Tuition V.R. $37, Resolution No. A-14 WHEREAS, according to New Jersey Administrative Code 6A: , the Paterson Public School District is required to provide educational services; and WHEREAS, the District wishes to remain compliant with state & federal requirements; now therefore BE IT RESOLVED, that the Paterson Public School District approves payment and contracts with Lodi Board of Education for providing educational services for 1 Paterson student during the school year. Student Initials Tuition C.S. $12, Resolution No. A-15 WHEREAS, according to New Jersey Administrative Code 6A: , the Paterson Public School District is required to provide educational services; and WHEREAS, the District wishes to remain compliant with state & federal requirements; now therefore Page 10 12/21/11

11 BE IT RESOLVED, that the Paterson Public School District approves payment and contracts with West Milford Board of Education for providing educational services for 3 Paterson students during the school year. Student Initials Tuition J.R., R.R., S.M. $39, Resolution No. A-16 WHEREAS, the Paterson Public School District accepts students from other school districts on a tuition basis; and WHEREAS, the Paterson Public School District has been asked to accept the student listed below on a tuition basis, with tuition to be paid by the sending school district, South River Board of Education; now therefore BE IT RESOLVED, that the Paterson Public School District accepts the student listed below with payment from the sending school district, South River Board of Education, for the school year. Student is attending Paterson Public School #26. Student Initials Tuition A.W. $11, Resolution No. A-17 WHEREAS, the Paterson Public School District accepts students from other school districts on a tuition basis; and WHEREAS, the Paterson Public School District has been asked to accept the student listed below on a tuition basis, with tuition to be paid by the sending school district, North Brunswick Board of Education; now therefore BE IT RESOLVED, that the Paterson Public School District accepts the student listed below with payment from the sending school district, North Brunswick Board of Education, for the school year. Student is attending Paterson Public School #30 Martin Luther King School. Student Initials Tuition T.B. $11, Resolution No. A-18 WHEREAS, the Paterson Public School District accepts students from other school districts on a tuition basis; and WHEREAS, the Paterson Public School District has been asked to accept the students listed below on a tuition basis, with tuition to be paid by the sending school district, Clifton Board of Education; now therefore BE IT RESOLVED, that the Paterson Public School District accepts the students listed below with payment from the sending school district, Clifton Board of Education, for the school year. Students are attending Phase II at Great Falls Academy. Page 11 12/21/11

12 Student Initials Tuition A.S., B.H., Y.I. $19, Resolution No. A-19 Introduction: The State of New Jersey under NJAC 6A:8-3.1, requires district boards of education to ensure that the district curriculum is designed and delivered to demonstrate knowledge and skills specified by the New Jersey Core Curriculum Content Standards. WHEREAS, New Jersey Quality Single Accountability Continuum (NJQSAC) stipulates that district curriculum supports student achievement of the New Jersey Core Curriculum Content Standards in every school for all students and is reflected in the Curriculum Frameworks and course guides of the Social Studies; and WHEREAS, the Paterson Public School District seeks to meet and exceed the standard instructional practices within the classroom by sponsoring various co-curricula activities that promote an understanding of global culture, study of world languages, and geography through learn by living it experiences that cannot be readily replicated within the World History and United States History classes. Also provides the Bright Futures The Strategic Plan for Paterson Public Schools, Priority I: Effective Academic Programs, Goal 1: Increase Student Achievement which extends learning opportunities; and WHEREAS, the RPHS Social Studies Department supports the ideals of a multicultural society and appreciation for travel as a means of furthering and supporting an understanding of global prospectives; RPHS students and teachers have sponsored past trips to Puerto Rico, New Orleans, Atlanta, G.A., and multiple trips to Boston, Philadelphia, Washington, D.C., Virginia and Florida; and WHEREAS, the RPHS Social Studies Department is seeking to travel for a total of 9 days during the week of Spring Break 2012; the mode of transportation will be airplane arranged by EF (Education First) Educational Tours, the field experience will be open to students in grades The population will consist of 24 students male and female, ages that is reflective of our school community; and WHEREAS, the itinerary is developed, organized and executed by EF Educational Tours, there will be one adult chaperone for every six children and will be inclusive of both males and females. Chaperones will accompany and supervise students during breakfast, lunch, dinner and through the duration of all field tours. Chaperones will rotate the supervision of students during overnight hours through the duration of the field experience. EF Educational Tours will also provide a tour guide that will accompany and supervise us through and during the duration of our tour; and WHEREAS, each student will make the initial $95.00 deposit, additional costs will be obtained through parental payments and fundraisers. Some of the additional costs include: Program Fee (travel and accommodations) $1, Current Departure Fee (fuel charges) $ Lifetime Membership Fee $95.00 All-Inclusive Insurance Plan $ Total Cost $2, Page 12 12/21/11

13 Total price with Autopay Total allows students to make monthly payments of $ NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Paterson Public Schools District Board of Education approves the field trip experience to Spain, Italy and France for a group of 24 Paterson Public Schools students and their chaperones for a total 7-8 days during Spring Break This will be no additional expense to the district, as students and their parents/guardians will incur the cost of this field trip experience and offset costs by various means of fundraising activities that are within the parameters of the District/local government guidelines. Resolution No. A-20 WHEREAS, on March 15, 2007, the State of New Jersey adopted P.L.2007, c.53, An Act Concerning School District Accountability, also known as Assembly Bill 5 (A5); and WHEREAS, Bill A5, N.J.S.A. 18A:11-12(3)f, requires that conferences/workshops have prior approval by a majority of the full voting membership of the board of education; and WHEREAS, pursuant to N.J.S.A. 18A:11-12(2)s, an employee or member of the board of education who travels in violation of the school district s policy or this section shall be required to reimburse the school district in an amount equal to three times the cost associated with attending the event; now therefore BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board of Education approves Mr. Victor Alegria, Science at Garrett Morgan Academy, to attend the Project Lead the Way (PLTW) 2012 Winter Institute in Rochester, New York, January 20-29, 2012, at a cost not to exceed $5,125.00; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that final authorization for attendance at conferences/workshops will be confirmed at the time a purchase order is issued. Resolution No. A-21 Intent to Apply: NFL Grassroots Grant Program Introduction: The NFL Youth Football Fund Grassroots Program (the NFL Grassroots Program ) is a partnership of the National Football League Youth Football Fund (NFL YFF), which provides funding for the Program, and the Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC), which provides technical assistance and manages the Program. The goal of the NFL Grassroots Program is to provide nonprofit, neighborhood-based organizations with financial and technical assistance to improve the quality, safety, and accessibility of local football fields. The NFL Grassroots Program provides grants of up to $200,000 for capital improvement projects. WHEREAS, all organizations applying for funds must be located specifically and exclusively within NFL Target Markets and serve low to moderate income areas within those markets; and WHEREAS, there are two levels of funding available: 1) general field support (e.g. irrigation, bleachers, lights, etc.) and, 2) field surface grants: 1. General Field Support: Applicants may submit requests of up to $50,000 for capital projects not associated with the actual field surface. This support Page 13 12/21/11

14 includes the installation/refurbishment of bleachers, concessions stands, lights, irrigation systems, etc. 2. Field Surface Grants: Matching grants of up to $150,000 are available to help finance the resurfacing of a community, middle school or high school football field. Matching grants of up to $200,000 will be available to applicants seeking to install new synthetic sports turf surfaces. The ability of these new surfaces to withstand constant use and require little ongoing maintenance costs makes this an attractive option for communities, schools and youth groups to consider; and WHEREAS, applications for the 2012 round of funding are due December 16, 2011; and WHEREAS, capital improvements refer to the physical development of the field and its surrounding amenities. Such projects may include, but are not limited to, new or renovated irrigation systems, topsoil, sod or seeding, lights, bleachers, public address systems, fences, restroom or locker room facilities, goalposts, and scoreboards; and WHEREAS, established in 1926, Eastside High School is the second largest comprehensive high school in Paterson, New Jersey. This school provides secondary education to over 1,500 students, 9 through 12 grades. The average classroom size is approximately 15 students per classroom, with a ratio of approximately 6 students to every teacher; and WHEREAS, in , Eastside s population was 40 percent black and 59 percent Hispanic. Approximately 55 percent of Eastside s students speak a language other than English at home and approximately 21 percent of Eastside s students have Limited English Proficiency (LEP). This provides Eastside with both a cultural richness that enhances the learning environment and a challenging classroom dynamic that requires that students receive additional attention to ensure they learn subject materials. Many of Eastside s students are from very lowand low-income families. Over two-thirds of Eastside students qualify for the free or reduced lunch program. The struggles of Eastside s students are great, which is all the more reason to enhance the investment into their education and youth development; and WHEREAS, the history of Eastside High School is rich, having produced such notable figures as poet Allan Ginsberg and Negro League baseball player Larry Doby. Historically, Eastside High School has struggled with preparing Paterson students for life in the real world. In the school year, less than two-thirds passed the HSPA examination. School attendance was 10 percentage points below the state average. Less than 80 percent of seniors graduated in , and nearly 4 percent dropped out of the school entirely. By the close of the 2009 school year, Eastside was the setting of daily school violence a manifestation of students who needed new opportunities and positive outlets to channel their energies. Eastside was ranked 311 th out of New Jersey s 316 high schools prompting local administrators and school officials to take drastic action to turn the school and its students around; and WHEREAS, in this school year, , Eastside High School officials, in collaboration with Paterson Public Schools, have worked hard to change the outcomes of the school for the better. Eastside has redesigned their curriculum and split the student population into 3 co-located academies. Eastside has partnered Page 14 12/21/11

15 with local businesses and non-profit organizations to give students hands-on training to compliment their classes, which improve the ability of students to absorb the curriculum more effectively. Additionally, Eastside works more closely with local service providers to provide students and their families with additional social services, so that students can address the needs they face outside of the classroom while providing them the opportunity to focus when inside the classroom. Finally, Eastside has instituted new school uniforms, to encourage student to focus more on their studies and less on their attire and the attire of their peers; and WHEREAS, to effectively institute the new culture shift, Eastside High School installed new leadership with new vision. Mr. Zatiti Moody, a life-long Paterson resident and former football player, was named the new principal of the school. His primary responsibilities are to oversee the successful implementation of the new curriculum program, as well as to manage the facilities in and around the school. Mr. Moody will work collaborative with District officials to provide ongoing maintenance and upkeep to the school and the neighboring field in order to ensure that the facility maintains a high quality and safety standard for both students and the community at-large; and WHEREAS, Eastside students have been utilizing Bauerle Field since its restoration in The field provides space for gym class, fitness training, and other recreational and extracurricular student activities. It is also where Eastside student athletes practice and compete in football, soccer, and track and field. However, because of time and use, Bauerle Field currently sits in terrible condition. Eastside officials are committed to providing students with ample opportunity to learn, grow and challenge themselves both physically and mentally. In order to achieve this, it is essential that Eastside, in collaboration with Paterson Public Schools, works hard to restore Bauerle field. The restoration of Bauerle Field will help Eastside High School implement the same type of innovations through athletics as it does through standard academics; and WHEREAS, Eastside currently struggles on the gridiron. Once one of the strongest public school programs in the state, Eastside High School now finds it difficult to attract and retain Paterson athletes to the football program. Despite the fact that over half (53 percent) Eastside students are male, in the football season, Eastside struggled to maintain a team of more than 25 players losing many players to the temptations that exist in the urban environment that surrounds the school. In order to change this, Eastside officials will work to invest in both Bauerle Field and the future of their student athletes. Eastside will be able to strengthen the football program by providing student athletes with a new, safe, and inspiring place to practice, compete, and develop a sense of teamwork and responsibility. Additionally, the restoration of Bauerle Field will help build and attract more students to extracurricular activities such as football and soccer; and WHEREAS, funding from the NFL Grassroots Program provide the resources needed to advance the work on Bauerle Field, but it will also show the student athletes of Paterson that the community and the NFL care about their growth and development. This funding will provide much needed reinvigoration to Paterson s football programs, and will tell students that they are worthy of this investment and that we, together, are rooting for their success on and off the field; and WHEREAS, the turf field and surrounding race track required resurfacing and drainage. Additionally, the bleachers and concession stand that were never Page 15 12/21/11

16 completed are in need of significant repair. Finally, to secure the facility, fencing must be installed to prevent unlawful entry and inappropriate use of the facility. The total cost of this work is approximately $1.2 Million, with $979,000 covering the costs of the track and field resurfacing project. To support this project, Eastside High School requests the following from the NFL Grassroots Program; now BE IT THEREFORE RESOLVED, that the Paterson Board of Education submit an application for a grant in the amount of up to but not exceeding $200, to be used to provide the resources needed to advance the work on Bauerle Field. This funding will provide a one-time project to provide comprehensive capital improvements and/or repairs to Bauerle Field for the 2012 funding period, and authorize a contribution of matching and in-kind services as required from various supporters to be named at time award is made. It was moved by Comm. Mendez, seconded by Comm. Rodriguez that Resolution Nos. A-1 through A-21 be adopted. It was moved by Comm. Rodriguez, seconded by Comm. Simmons that Resolution No. A-10 be amended to read a minimum of once a week rather than once a semester as is indicated in the Board packet. On roll call all members voted in the affirmative. The motion carried. On roll call all members voted as follows: Comm. Cleaves: I abstain from A-7 and on all the others I vote yes. Comm. Guzman: Yes to all. Comm. Hodges: Pass. Comm. Irving: Yes. Comm. Kerr: Pass. Comm. Mendez: Yes. Comm. Rodriguez: Yes. Comm. Simmons: I abstain from A-6. Yes to all others. Comm. Hodges: I'm going to abstain from anything having to do with the St. Paul s CDC and the YMCA. Let me extend special thanks to Tobi Knehr, Dr. Fulmore and T.J. Best for their assistance with the NFL grant which they were forced to pick up under extraordinarily difficult circumstances in the last few days. I want to thank them for that. However, Dr. Evans, through the chair, do we have our compendium yet? Comm. Irving: You know we re in roll call, right? Comm. Hodges: I'm asking for information that's going to affect my vote. Comm. Irving: Dr. Evans, can you give a brief answer? I know the answer. Dr. Evans: Not yet. Comm. Hodges: Even though I'm very anxious to have A-21 supported, I'm going to vote no as per my earlier remarks. Page 16 12/21/11

17 Comm. Kerr: I'm still pondering this A-10. I vote yes on all the others, but I'm going to abstain on A-10. Comm. Taylor: Yes. The motion carried. LEGAL COMMITTEE Comm. Rodriguez: The legal committee didn t meet. It s just one item which is repeated. We discussed this item during the workshop and that's why we didn t feel there was a need to bring Commissioners for a meeting for this particular item. The item has to do with the approval of a settlement with an agreement filed for due process emergent relief on the issues of program, placement and evaluation. It has to do with settlement for those programs that we didn t provide some of the children last year. Comm. Rodriguez reported that the Legal Committee met, reviewed and recommends approval for Resolution No. B-1: Resolution No. B-1 WHEREAS, L.V., the parent of S.P., filed for due process emergent relief on the issues of program, placement and evaluations; and WHEREAS, the parties appeared for mediation on September 1, 2011 and reached agreement regarding all issues related to Agency Reference No ; and WHEREAS, the parties prepared a written settlement agreement; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, the settlement is hereby approved in accordance with the terms of the Settlement Agreement submitted for consideration. It was moved by Comm. Taylor, seconded by Comm. Irving that Resolution No. B- 1 be adopted. On roll call all members voted in the affirmative, except for Dr. Hodges who voted no. The motion carried. FISCAL COMMITTEE Comm. Kerr: The fiscal committee met a couple of weeks ago and the minutes of that meeting were read into the minutes of the workshop meeting that we had a couple of weeks ago. Comm. Kerr reported that the Fiscal Committee met, reviewed and recommends approval for Resolution Nos. C-1 through C-24: Resolution No. C-1 BE IT RESOLVED, that the list of bills dated December 16, 2011 in the grand sum of $281, beginning with vendor number and ending with vendor number to be approved for payment; and Page 17 12/21/11

18 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that each claim or demand has been fully itemized verified, has been duly audited as required by law in accordance with N.J.S.A. 18A:19-2; and BE IT RESOLVED, that the list of bills dated December 16, 2011 in the grand sum of $25,164, beginning with check number and ending with check number to be approved for payment; and BE IT RESOLVED, that each claim or demand has been fully itemized verified, has been duly audited as required by law in accordance with N.J.S.A. 18A:19-2. Resolution No. C-2 Approve transfer of funds within the school year budget for the month of October WHEREAS, the New Jersey Administrative Code 6A:23A-2.3(d)-(h) requires the Board Secretary and the Board of Education to certify that no budgetary line item account has been over-expended and that sufficient funds are available to meet the District s financial obligations, all transfers were fully executed consistent with code and policy prior to obligating funds; now therefore, be it RESOLVED, that the Board of Education approve transfer of funds within the school year budget, for the month of October 2011, so that no budgetary line item account has been over-expended and that sufficient funds are available to meet the district s financial obligations, as requested by various budget managers, and as identified in the list of transfers attached hereto and made a part of the minutes. Furthermore, the transfers were approved by the Department of Education. Resolution No. C-3 WHEREAS, Paterson Public Schools are required by New Jersey Administrative Code 6A: (c).4(iii)-(vi) to prepare monthly Financial Statements; and WHEREAS, the School Business Administrator has prepared and presented the Board Secretary Report A-148 and the Report of the Treasurer A-149 including the cash reconciliation for the month of October 2011; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, the Paterson Public Schools acknowledge receipt of and accept the Monthly Financial Reports for October 2011; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Paterson Public Schools hereby incorporates the Monthly Financial Reports for the fiscal period ending October 2011, as part of the minutes of this meeting and note the public discussion of same for the minutes; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the School Business Administrator be directed to forward to the County Superintendent the minutes together with the Monthly Financial Reports; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that this resolution shall take effect upon its adoption. Resolution No. C-4 Early Childhood Corrective Action Plan (OFAC) St. Joseph s RMC Child Care Page 18 12/21/11

19 WHEREAS, the district s Strategic Plan, the fourth priority is to provide efficient and responsive operations by revamping operational procedures and aligned to the DECE s goal number 1: Increase accountability for performance; and WHEREAS, the DECE will continue to provide operational guidance to the early childhood centers to promote fiscal accountability, sound effective business practices, and enhance programmatic effectiveness; and WHEREAS, the Paterson Public School District Internal Auditors conducted an audit of the early childhood center St. Joseph s RMC Child Care for fiscal year ; and WHEREAS, the Paterson Public School District accepts the Internal Auditors audit report of St. Joseph s RMC Child Care in compliance with 6A:23A-5.6, the District responds with a Corrective Action Plan (CAP) to the Office of Fiscal Accountability and Compliance (OFAC) audit report; and WHEREAS, the auditors noted deficiencies in the quarterly reports as follows: The Provider under spent the budget, and as a result the Provider owes the District $15, and they noted minor accounting errors; and WHEREAS, any school district that has been the subject to an audit by the Department of Education s Office of Fiscal Accountability and Compliance shall discuss the findings of the audit at a public meeting of the District Board of Education no later than 30 days after the receipt of the audit report; now THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Department of Early Childhood Education has addressed the findings in the Internal Auditors audit report of St. Joseph s RMC Child Care in compliance with 6A:23A-5.6 and addresses the recommendations contained in the report; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that Paterson Board of Education has been the subject to an audit by the Paterson Internal Audit Unit and has discussed the findings of the audit at the December 7, 2011 public meeting of the District Board of Education with 30 days of receipt of the audit report; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, the Paterson Board of Education within 30 days of the December 7, 2011 public meeting adopts this resolution certifying that the finding was discussed in a public board meeting and approved the Corrective Action Plan (CAP) addressing the issues raised in the findings of the audit and will submit this resolution to the Office of Fiscal Accountability and Compliance within 10 days of adoption by the Board of Education; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that Paterson Board of Education shall post the findings of the Office of Fiscal Accountability and Compliance audit and the Board of Education s corrective action plan on the District s web site. Resolution No. C-5 Corrective Action Plan: Audit Review of FY Application for Chapter 192/193 Auxiliary Services Funding for Nonpublic Schools The New Jersey Department of Education, Office of Fiscal Accountability and Compliance (OFAC), has verified the enrollment of the Paterson Public Schools Page 19 12/21/11