Putnam City Board of Education Meeting Minutes
November 2009
REGULAR BOARD OF EDUCATION MEETING
Monday, November 2, 2009
The Putnam City Schools Board of Education of Independent School District No. One of Oklahoma County, State of Oklahoma, met in regular session Monday, November 2, 2009 at 6:00 p.m. in the Board room at the Administration Building, 5401 NW 40th, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. The agenda and meeting notice were posted on Friday, October 30, 2009 at 4:30 p.m. in accordance with 25 O.S. § 311.
Members present: Gail LoPresto, president; Julie Jenison, vice president; Tammy West, Becky Haliburton, and Mark Bledsoe, members; Superintendent Paul Hurst; Debbie Baldwin, clerk; and others.
ITEM #1 - INSPIRATIONAL MESSAGE, MOMENT OF SILENCE, AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE – SHANNON MEEKS.
Shannon Meeks, Executive Director of Finance, gave the Inspirational Message, Moment of Silence, and Pledge of Allegiance.
ITEM #2 – INFORMATION AND STAFF REPORTS:
BOND ELECTION REPORT – SUPERINTENDENT PAUL HURST
Mr. Paul Hurst reminded board members that Putnam City’s bond election is just a week away, Tuesday, November 10th. He said the bond proposal includes more than 100 projects totaling $80.6 million dollars. The two bond proposals that will be on the ballot include a proposition for building improvements, technology, and textbooks and a transportation proposition for new school buses. Mr. Hurst said two community meetings last week brought important, thoughtful discussion. He said one community meeting remains, scheduled for 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday, November 3rd at Western Oaks Middle School.
H1N1 RESPONSE – STEVE LINDLEY
Steve Lindley reported that cases of flu-like illness are trending downward in Putnam City schools. The district is planning a new round of communication and preparing to team with the Oklahoma City-County Health Department in offering H1N1 vaccination in district schools. He said the highest number of student days lost to flu-like illness in one week was during the week of September 28 through October 2, when there were 1,882 student days lost to flu symptoms. Last week in the district, there were just 407 student days lost to flu-like illnesses. Health Services Coordinator Georgene Westendorf said the district has been in conversation with the Oklahoma City-County Health Department about using district schools for H1N1 vaccination. Mrs. Westendorf says early December appears to be the most likely time for schools to host public H1N1 clinics. She said the district website gives times, dates and locations of other public H1N1 clinics already scheduled.
ITEM #3 – PUBLIC PARTICIPATIONS.
Jim Shields thanked board members for all the support they have given to the Putnam City Museum.
ITEM #4 – CONSENT AGENDA: ALL OF THE FOLLOWING ITEMS, WHICH CONCERN REPORTS AND ITEMS OF A ROUTINE NATURE NORMALLY APPROVED AT BOARD MEETINGS, WILL BE APPROVED BY ONE VOTE UNLESS ANY BOARD MEMBER DESIRES TO HAVE A SEPARATE VOTE ON ANY OR ALL OF THESE ITEMS. THE CONSENT CONSISTS OF THE DISCUSSION, CONSIDERATION, AND APPROVAL OF THE FOLLOWING ITEMS:
Julie Jenison made a motion to approve the consent agenda as presented. Mark Bledsoe seconded the motion. Vote: Jenison, aye; Haliburton, aye; Bledsoe, aye; West, aye; LoPresto, aye.
a. Minutes for regular board meeting October 19, 2009.
b. Financial report and bimonthly bills for beginning purchase order numbers
004511105 through 006740705 for October 12 through October 27, 2009
for the 2009-2010 school year with the exception of purchase order number
006446710 for Triangle A & E.
c. School Activity Fund Expenditures.
d. Activity Fund Subaccount Request List.
e. School Activity Fund Transfer List.
f. Declaration of Obsolete and/or Surplus Items.
g. Agreement for Phase IV Literacy First Program at Apollo Elementary for the
2009-10 school year.
h. Elementary and Secondary Fundraisers.
November 2, 2009
APOLLO
Activity / Subaccount Candy Sales / General $ 600.00
Date: Nov. 30 – Dec. 18 (instructional supplies/materials, PE equipment, field
trips, and guest authors/illustrators)
CORONADO
Activity / Subaccount Pizza Dinner / Fifth Grade $ 250.00
Date: November (5th grade misc. supplies, field trip expenses for end
of year celebrations)
DOWNS
Activity / Subaccount Concession stand sales / Athletics $ 200.00
Date: Ongoing (intramural program expenditures)
HARVEST HILLS
Activity / Subaccount Sell Candy Grams / Cancer Research $ 1,700.00
Date: Nov./Dec./Feb. (cancer fund)
Activity / Subaccount Book Fair / Media Center $ 2,500.00
Date: November/April (books for Media Center, promotional materials for
students, media luncheons, conferences and travel)
HILLDALE
Activity / Subaccount Bedlam Challenge-sell tickets to vote for favorite $ 200.00
Date: November 16-20 football team (cancer fund)
LAKE PARK
Activity / Subaccount All school skate parties-concession & admission / $ 500.00
Date: Nov. 17 / Mar. 30 General (5th grade end of year activity)
ROLLINGWOOD
Activity / Subaccount Book Fair / Media Center $ 600.00
Date: November (media equipment, materials, supplies, and books)
WESTERN OAKS EL.
Activity / Subaccount Turkey Bingo-carnival night / Special/project carnival $ 5,000.00
Date: November (educational supplies, guest speakers, operating expenses,
office and classroom items, building improvements)
WILL ROGERS
Activity / Subaccount Santa Pictures / General $ 1,400.00
Date: November (OMRF)
WESTERN OAKS MI.
Activity / Subaccount Catalog Sales / General $ 6,000.00
Date: November 5-19 (misc. instruction, classroom supplies, printing, books,
first aid supplies, etc.)
PC NORTH
Activity / Subaccount Sell Senior Salutes and business ads / Yearbook $ 6,000-$10,000
Date: Nov. 15-Feb. 1 (yearbook publishing, supplies, equipment,
purchases, repairs, and other misc. costs)
Activity / Subaccount Holiday Catalog sale / Pom Squad $ 500.00
Date: November (Pom expenses)
i. Overnight Travel Requests.
j. Retirements and resignations as listed on Attachment A.
ITEM #6- CONSIDERATION OF AND VOTE ON RECOMMENDATION OF EMPLOYMENT OF NEW PERSONNEL AS LISTED ON ATTACHMENT A.
Becky Haliburton made a motion to approve the employment of new personnel as listed on Attachment A. Tammy West seconded the motion. Vote: Jenison, aye; Haliburton, aye; Bledsoe, aye; West, aye; LoPresto, aye.
ITEM #7 - CONSIDERATION OF AND VOTE ON MOTION TO APPROVE PURCHASE ORDER NUMBER 006446710 FOR TRIANGLE A & E.
Julie Jenison made a motion to approve purchase order number 006446710 for Triangle A & E. Mark Bledsoe seconded the motion. Vote: Jenison, aye; Haliburton, aye; Bledsoe, aye; West, aye; LoPresto, abstain.
ITEM #8 – CONSIDERATION OF AND VOTE ON MOTION TO APPROVE CONTRACT WITH AHA! PROCESS, INC. FOR TWO SESSIONS ON JANUARY 11, 2010 ENTITLED HEAR OUR CRY: BOYS IN CRISIS PRESENTED BY DR. PAUL SLOCUMB. ($3,800 FROM TITLE I STIMULUS AND IDEA STIMULUS)
Mark Bledsoe made a motion to approve contract with aha! Process, Inc for two sessions on January 11, 2010 entitled Hear Our Cry: Boys in Crisis presented by Dr. Paul Slocumb. Tammy West seconded the motion. Vote: Jenison, aye; Haliburton, aye; Bledsoe, aye; West, aye; LoPresto, aye.
ITEM #9 – SUPERINTENDENT’S REPORT.
• Students, teachers, parents and patrons are invited to view outstanding art, visit with artists, and enjoy refreshments from 7:00 until 9:00 p.m. on Friday, November 13, at the opening reception of the Putnam City Visual Arts Educators Art Show. The artwork, all from current or retired district art teachers, spans a side array of media including pencil, charcoal, acrylic, oil, glass, wood, ceramics, and more. The reception and show will be conducted in the West Conference Room of the district’s Administration Building.
• November 9 through November 13 is National School Psychology Week. We applaud the work of school psychologists as they assist all children in doing their best at school and in the community. School psychologists address the needs of children and youth related to issues such as learning and academic achievement, behavior and social interaction, problem solving, mental health, and family. Again, we do appreciate the work of our dedicated school psychologists.
• The Cancer Classic 5K and One Mile Fun Run are scheduled for Saturday, November 7th. The 5K begins at 9 a.m. and the Fun Run at 10 a.m.
• Congratulations to Bob Melton of the district’s curriculum department for his selection as the Secretary/Treasurer of the National Association of Biology Teachers. Certainly, his leadership extends far beyond the district.
• Students at Putnam City’s three high schools last year earned 2,199 hours of college credit and saved $525,000 in college tuition costs by taking advanced placement courses and passing advanced placement tests. Dr. Mouse has been involved in the ongoing monitoring of advanced placement opportunities in the district. Putnam City schools currently offers 17 different advanced placement courses.
• Congratulations to 16 art students from all four high schools who have been accepted into the 2009 High School Print and Drawing Exhibition at Oklahoma City University in the Norick Art Gallery. The exhibit opened November 1st.
• The Oklahoma City Mayor’s Committee on Disability Concerns recently presented the 2010 Poster/Billboard Contest winners. Gabriel Martinez, a senior at Putnam City West, was awarded second place. Sophomore Lizbeth Del Castillo won third place and $200 in this contest. Both are students of Sharon Johnston at Putnam City West High School. Putnam City West also had eight students who received honorable mention. Because of the school’s participation and award winning art, Putnam City West was also presented with a substantial amount of art supplies.
• Hefner Middle School special needs classes spearheaded a food drive that collected over 1,100 pounds of food. The food was collected and donated to the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma. There were also many students who spent time volunteering at the food bank. Many thanks are extended to the kids and the teachers, Ryanne Seay and Cynthia Lenk.
• Congratulations to the Putnam City High School volleyball team as they were awarded a Distinguished Academic Achievement Award by the Oklahoma Secondary Schools Activities Association.
• Congratulations to Eddie Walker, Matthew Hawkins, and Andrew Hawkins, seniors at Putnam City High School. These three students were recently awarded their Eagle Scout badges.
• An item will be on the November 16th board agenda for amended language regarding Policy EC.
• The district’s October 1st enrollment count is official and shows 18,700 students in the district. That’s down 90 students from October 1, 2008. We are up slightly at the elementary and middle schools. There are positive trends. You will note on the longitudinal look at the district’s enrollment since 1996 that the elementary enrollment is as large as it has been at 9,459 students. This number does include off-site 4-year-old programs. Kindergarten is our largest group of students. Middle school enrollment has increased since 2006. High school enrollment is down approximately 130 students as compared to last year’s count. We appreciate the efforts of all of those who work to productively connect with our school families and who successfully tout the many good things that occur for children in this district.
ITEM #10 – COMMENTS BY BOARD MEMBERS.
Julie Jenison thanked Shannon Meeks for his inspirational message. She said she has talked about the upcoming bond election with senior citizens across the district and has received positive reception.
Becky Haliburton thanked Shannon Meeks for his inspirational message. She also thanked Mr. Hurst and Steve Lindley for the work they had done in getting information out about the bond election. Mrs. Haliburton said she had heard very positive comments from people regarding the bond election.
Mark Bledsoe thanked Shannon Meeks for his inspirational message. He thanked Sherri Brown and the staff at Central Elementary for the ribbon-cutting ceremony at the school. Mr. Bledsoe congratulated the three students awarded Eagle Scout badges. He congratulated Bob Melton on being elected secretary-treasurer of the National Association of Biology Teachers. Mr. Bledsoe encouraged all district patrons to get out and vote in the November 10th bond election.
Tammy West thanked Shannon Meeks for the inspirational message. She said she enjoyed attending the girls’ basketball games between Windsor Hills and Hilldale last week. Mrs. West said she loved the after school program, and that it is very well done. She also congratulated coaches Aaron Fisher of Putnam City West and Eric Wright of Putnam City North for receiving Coaches Who Care awards. Putnam City West students Grayson Buchanan, Malcomb Tubbs, and Kasey Wilcox nominated Mr. Fisher for the honor, and were invited by Mr. Fisher to share in his award by watching a game at Adrian Peterson’s house with the players from OU that play for the Vikings and then attending a Viking’s game.
Gail LoPresto thanked Shannon Meeks for his inspirational message. She thanked Mr. Hurst for his extensive work in communicating with the Putnam City community about the November 10th bond election. Mrs. LoPresto said she went to Hilldale Elementary’s open house and found it very well attended. She attended a concert featuring orchestras from every school in the Putnam City West feeder pattern, and it was very good. The history DVD that was part of the opening of the Putnam City Museum was very interesting and the museum itself is full of information. Mrs. LoPresto said she enjoyed Putnam City West’s production of Godspell and is looking forward to Putnam City High School’s production of Little Shop of Horrors November 19-21. She said she enjoyed the ribbon-cutting ceremony at Central Elementary. Mrs. LoPresto said she was impressed with a spectacular cake that was a big book with pages and pictures of 1936.
ITEM #11– CONSIDERATION OF AND VOTE ON MOTION TO ENTER INTO EXECUTIVE
SESSION FOR THE PURPOSE OF DISCUSSING POTENTIAL PROPERTY ACQUISITION
PURSUANT TO 25 O.S., §307(B)(3).
Julie Jenison made a motion at 6:45 p.m. to enter into executive session for the purpose of discussing potential property acquisition pursuant to 25 O.S. §307(B)(3). Mark Bledsoe seconded the motion. Vote: Jenison, aye; Haliburton, aye; Bledsoe, aye; West, aye; LoPresto, aye.
ITEM #12 – CONSIDERATION OF AND VOTE ON MOTION TO RETURN TO OPEN
SESSION AND TO REQUEST THE BOARD CLERK TO RECORD THE MINUTES OF THE
EXECUTIVE SESSION.
Julie Jenison made a motion at 7:40 p.m. to return to open session and to request the Board Clerk
to record the minutes of the executive session. Becky Haliburton seconded the motion. Vote:
Jenison, aye; Haliburton, aye; Bledsoe, aye; West, aye; LoPresto, aye.
MINUTES OF EXECUTIVE SESSION: Board Members Gail LoPresto, Becky Haliburton,
Tammy West, Mark Bledsoe, Julie Jenison; Attorney Laura Holmes; Executive Director of
Operations Jim Hooper; and Superintendent Paul Hurst met in executive session for the purpose of
discussing potential property acquisition pursuant to 25O.S. §307 (B)(3).
ITEM #13 - CONSIDERATION OF AND VOTE ON NEW BUSINESS.
There was no new business.
ITEM #14 – CONSIDERATION OF AND VOTE ON MOTION TO ADJOURN.
Julie Jenison made a motion at 7:40 p.m. to adjourn. Mark Bledsoe seconded the motion.
Vote: Jenison, aye; Haliburton, aye; Bledsoe, aye; West, aye; LoPresto, aye.
____________________________________________________
REGULAR BOARD OF EDUCATION MEETING
Monday, November 16, 2009
The Putnam City Schools Board of Education of Independent School District No. One of Oklahoma County, State of Oklahoma, met in regular session Monday, November 16, 2009 at 6:00 p.m. in the Board room at the Administration Building, 5401 NW 40th, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. The agenda and meeting notice were posted on Friday, November 13, 2009 at 4:30 p.m. in accordance with 25 O.S. § 311.
Members present: Gail LoPresto, president; Julie Jenison, vice president; Tammy West, Becky Haliburton, and Mark Bledsoe, members; Superintendent Paul Hurst; Debbie Baldwin, clerk; and others.
ITEM #1 - INSPIRATIONAL MESSAGE, MOMENT OF SILENCE, AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE – TERI VOSS.
Teri Voss, Assistant Principal at Putnam City High School, gave the Inspirational Message, Moment of Silence, and Pledge of Allegiance.
ITEM #2 – INFORMATION AND STAFF REPORTS:
FEDERAL STIMULUS UPDATE.
Lynette Thompson, Executive Director of Special Services, presented the Federal Stimulus update. Funds provided to the district through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) are paying for staff training, support services for students, new programs and more.
ARRA provided funds to the district in two categories. The district received $1.77 million for its first phase of Title 1 programs and services and another $1.77 million in Title I funds for a second phase of efforts. ARRA allocations for services to children with disabilities were $2.1 million for the first phase of programs and services and another $2.1 million for a second phase.
Mrs. Thompson reported on status of the top 40 projects funded by ARRA. They are:
Day Treatment Strive Evening
Visual/Hearing Testing and Equipment
School Based Service Specialists
Literacy Coaches
After School / Extended Day Program
ES Math Curriculum and MS Literacy
Full Day 4 Year Old Program
Extended Health Services
Health Aides to Full Time
Transition Coaches
Early Childhood Behavioral Interventions
Special Ed Facilitator
3 – 4 Year Old with Mild Disabilities
21st Century Grant
Textbooks and Materials
Strive Resources
Failure Free Reading
Full Day 4 Year Old Program
Amplification Systems
Credit Recovery Software
Assistive Technology
Differentiated Instruction
Evening Alt Ed SP ED teacher
Boys in Crisis
Pyramid of Intervention / RTI
Capturing Kids’ Hearts
Para Training
Academic Vocabulary
Expand PLC
Youth Cornerstone
Parent Training and Stipends
ABA Training
VI Training for a Teacher
Legal Aspects of IDEA
Maintenance of Effort
Title I One year Requirement
Private Schools
Indirect Cost
Sue Kuntze, Assistant Superintendent of Elementary Education, introduced John Robberson, Director of After School Programs. His position and the After School Programs are being funded through ARRA funds.
SCHOOL PSYCHOLOGIST PRESENTATION:
School Psychologist Nicole Christopher reported that Putnam City’s 12 school psychologists work with students, parents, teachers, administrators and community service providers to address student learning, behavior, mental health, alcohol and drug abuse and other issues.
School psychologists play many roles in helping students succeed, including assessing academic skills and aptitude for learning, evaluating eligibility for special services, working with children and families to help resolve interpersonal or family problems that interfere with school performance, helping families manage crises such as death, illness or community trauma, providing training in social skills and anger management, collaborating with community agencies to provide services directed at improving psychological and physical health, and helping implement programs for students at risk of failing in school.
School psychologists helped the district implement Response to Interventions (RTI), a multi-tiered approach to helping struggling learners. Through RTI, student progress is closely monitored to determine the need for further or alternative intervention or instruction. The intent of RTI is to help students get the help they need before they fall behind or fail.
ITEM #3 – PUBLIC PARTICIPATIONS.
There was no public participation.
ITEM #4 – CONSENT AGENDA: ALL OF THE FOLLOWING ITEMS, WHICH CONCERN REPORTS AND ITEMS OF A ROUTINE NATURE NORMALLY APPROVED AT BOARD MEETINGS, WILL BE APPROVED BY ONE VOTE UNLESS ANY BOARD MEMBER DESIRES TO HAVE A SEPARATE VOTE ON ANY OR ALL OF THESE ITEMS. THE CONSENT CONSISTS OF THE DISCUSSION, CONSIDERATION, AND APPROVAL OF THE FOLLOWING ITEMS:
Julie Jenison made a motion to approve the consent agenda as presented. Mark Bledsoe seconded the motion. Vote: Jenison, aye; Haliburton, aye; Bledsoe, aye; West, aye; LoPresto, aye.
a. Minutes for regular board meeting November 2, 2009.
b. Financial report and bimonthly bills for beginning purchase order numbers
003444095 through 007368511 for October 27 through November 10, 2009
for the 2009-2010 school year with the exception of purchase order number
006941710 for Triangle A & E.
c. School Activity Fund Subaccount Request for Hefner Middle School Soccer Club and
Science Club.
d. School Activity Fund Transfer List including Hefner Middle School, Putnam City High
School, Putnam City North, and Putnam City West.
e. Declaration of Obsolete and/or Surplus Items.
f. Renewal of district-wide subscription for World Book Online.
($4,887 from 077)
g. Elementary Contracts.
h. Elementary and Secondary Fundraisers.
ELEMENTARY & SECONDARY FUND-RAISERS
BOARD OF EDUCATION MEETING
November 16, 2009
APOLLO
Activity / Subaccount Singing Christmas cards / Vocal music $ 175.00
Date: December 9-17 (music, programs, misc. program & chorus supplies)
ARBOR GROVE
Activity / Subaccount Candy grams / Leadership $ 400.00
Date: December (school projects, butterfly garden)
HILLDALE
Activity / Subaccount Santa Pictures / General $ 500.00
Date: December (school supplies, field trips, teaching materials, and
incentives)
Activity / Subaccount Candy Cane grams / Cancer Research $ 200.00
Date: December 7-11 (cancer fund)
LAKE PARK
Activity / Subaccount Gobble Grams / General $ 300.00
Date: November 17-24 (5th grade end of year activity)
Activity / Subaccount Sell speed stackers / General $ 300.00
Date: Nov./Dec. (PE equipment)
ROLLINGWOOD
Activity / Subaccount Fall picture retakes / Pictures $ 50.00
Date: December 4 (office/classroom activities, equipment, materials and
supplies)
WESTERN OAKS
Activity / Subaccount Santa Express-Candy Grams / STUCO $ 500.00
Date: December (misc. supplies, flowers, etc. for STUCO)
PUTNAM CITY NORTH
Activity / Subaccount Selling Ads for Musical / Music $ 3,000.00
Date: December (Costumes, royalty and choreographer)
PUTNAM CITY WEST
Activity / Subaccount Sell Tamales / La Raza $ 300.00
Date: December 7 (La Raza supplies and events)
Activity / Subaccount Winter Craft Show / Transition Department $ 400.00
Date: December 10-11 (transition field trips and activities)
i. Overnight Travel Requests.
j. Out of State Trips:
1. Putnam City North Varsity Cheer Squad and Junior Varsity Cheer Squad to
NCA Nationals in Dallas, Texas December 27-29, 2009.
2. Putnam City North Pom students to National Competition in Orlando, Florida
March 5-8, 2010.
3. Mayfield Middle School Student Council students to Branson, Missouri
May 19-21, 2010.
k. Retirements and resignations as listed on Attachment A.
ITEM #5- CONSIDERATION OF AND VOTE ON RECOMMENDATION OF EMPLOYMENT OF NEW PERSONNEL AS LISTED ON ATTACHMENT A.
Mark Bledsoe made a motion to approve the employment of new personnel as listed on Attachment A. Tammy West seconded the motion. Vote: Jenison, aye; Haliburton, aye; Bledsoe, aye; West, aye; LoPresto, aye.
ITEM #6 - CONSIDERATION OF AND VOTE ON MOTION TO APPROVE PURCHASE ORDER NUMBER 006941710 FOR TRIANGLE A & E.
Becky Haliburton made a motion to approve purchase order number 006941710 for Triangle A & E. Julie Jenison seconded the motion. Vote: Jenison, aye; Haliburton, aye; Bledsoe, aye; West, aye; LoPresto, abstain.
ITEM #7 – CONSIDERATION OF AND VOTE ON MOTION TO APPROVE CHANGES TO DISTRICT POLICY EC – STUDENT ACTIVITIES.
Julie Jenison made a motion to approve changes to District Policy EC – Student Activities. Tammy West seconded the motion. Vote: Jenison, aye; Haliburton, aye; Bledsoe, aye; West, aye; LoPresto, aye.
ITEM #8 – CONSIDERATION OF AND TAKE ACTION ON A RESOLUTION DETERMINING THE MATURITIES OF, AND SETTING A DATE, TIME AND PLACE FOR THE SALE OF THE $15,520,000 GENERAL OBLIGATION COMBINED PURPOSE BONDS OF THE PUTNAM CITY SCHOOL DISTRICT.
Mark Bledsoe made a motion to approve a resolution determining the maturities of, and setting December 2, 2009 at 12:00 p.m. in the Putnam City Administration Board Room for the sale of the $15,520,000 General Obligation Combined Purpose Bonds of the Putnam City School District. Tammy West seconded the motion. Vote: Jenison, aye; Haliburton, aye; Bledsoe, aye; West, aye; LoPresto, aye.
ITEM #9 – CONSIDERATION OF AND VOTE ON MOTION TO APPROVE MODIFIED RATES OF PAY SCHEDULE EFFECTIVE NOVEMBER 17, 2009.
Tammy West made a motion to approve the modified Rates of Pay Schedule effective November 17, 2009. Becky Haliburton seconded the motion. Vote: Jenison, aye; Haliburton, aye; Bledsoe, aye; West, aye; LoPresto, aye.
There are no changes to the Rates of Pay Schedule, other than the additions specific to ARRA After School Programs.
ITEM #10 – CONSIDERATION OF AND VOTE ON MOTION TO APPROVE TRANSPORTATION OF HOMELESS STUDENTS’ AGREEMENT.
Mark Bledsoe made a motion to approve the Transportation of Homeless Students’ Agreement. Julie Jenison seconded the motion. Vote: Jenison, aye; Haliburton, aye; Bledsoe, aye; West, aye; LoPresto, aye.
ITEM #11 – SUPERINTENDENT’S REPORT.
• I wish to begin this evening’s report by extending thanks and great appreciation to the Putnam City Schools community for the approval of the building bond and transportation propositions on November 10th. While the scope and sequence of the work will extend over several years, we look forward to moving forward on these projects and purchases within the next couple of months. The following people and groups were instrumental in the success of these initiatives:
The Putnam City Board of Education for the vision and commitment to this effort;
The administrative team for their collective and individual contributions;
To Mr. Steve Lindley and Mr. Jim Hooper for the guidance, descriptors, presentations, and splendid preparation;
To Caroline Gist and the Foundation Board for all they did in support of the bond issues;
To Bob Coursey and the PTA Council for their great effort;
To our individual PTA’s for hosting informational meetings and providing support;
To Jill McCartney and the NW Chamber of Commerce for their meaningful endorsement and member involvement;
To our principals, faculties, and staffs of each of our buildings who gave their time and energy to assist in the process;
To our operational departments…maintenance, building and grounds, child nutrition, transportation, and technology who likewise provided time to share information regarding the bond initiatives;
To Mr. Everett Blasingame who prepared the backbone of the improvement strategy;
To Terry Parker and Rick Waters for their invaluable contributions, support and expertise;
To Ms. Balenseifen, Brian Chastain, and Don Wentroth and their staffs for hosting the three community meetings;
To the youth leadership particularly at the district’s high schools who were so engaged in understanding and guiding many conversations regarding this effort;
To the Key Communicators group who were willing to dialogue over time regarding the characteristics of these proposals; and again
To the Putnam City Community…parents, families, and patrons, thank you so much for your ongoing support. You have again expressed the value you place in the educational system of this community.
• Susan Baker, a biology teacher at Putnam City North High School, has received the Outstanding High School Science Teaching Award from the Oklahoma Science Teachers Association (OSTA). The award was presented at OSTA’s fall conference on November 7th.
• The Putnam City High School Science Department will once again be hosting the Genetics Update Conference on December 2nd in the school’s auditorium. Over 700 students from across the state will be in attendance for this activity.
• The Oklahoma Association of Student Councils has awarded the Putnam City West Student Council the Spirit of Service Award for Children. This group received the award for their work with a track and field activity for children with special needs. Over 75 student leaders from PCW gave of their time to help coordinate this wholesome event.
• Jamiya Havis, a 7th grade student at Hefner Middle School, has been named one of the top ten winners for the Read Beyond Reality Contest sponsored by The Daily Oklahoman and the Oklahoma Department of Libraries. This student read over 9,900 pages during the month of October and has been presented two premium tickets to an OKC Thunder basketball game.
• I am pleased to announce that the winning school in the Read Beyond Reality activity was Putnam City High School whose students logged over 68,000 pages during the month of October. They also had the winning reader among all schools with Lindsey Kilmer, a senior at PCH, reading almost 23,000 pages during the month. Congratulations to all who participated in this event.
• Also it is my pleasure to announce that Rachel Runnels, a student at Putnam City High School, sang the National Anthem at the Thunder game on November 8th. Also, students Kesia Black and Andrew Gray have been selected as members of the OKC Youth in Action class. This select group of 30 students from the greater metropolitan area will be involved in leadership training as it would relate to meeting the needs of the community.
• Putnam City High School students Katrina Hucks, April Boswell, and Leslie Coffman were named to the All-OMEA Choir this weekend.
• Congratulations to Western Oaks Middle School as their choir program is the proud recipient of a $1000 charitable grant from Sam’s Club.
• I want to pass on a note of appreciation I received from a local Special Olympics management group directed to Dr. Don Wentroth, A.D. Burtchi, Trey Keopple and a host of Putnam City High School basketball players and other students associated with the basketball program for their involvement in a local basketball event conducted at OCCC. The group put out a call for volunteers to assist with refereeing and other event workers. Putnam City High School responded with great enthusiasm and participation. We appreciate your volunteer spirit for such an important activity.
• I want to take just a moment to speak to the very real and most troublesome conditions regarding the ongoing state revenue shortfall. As you are aware, the state revenue collections have been significantly less than the estimates on which the appropriations were made last legislative session. While budget reductions were anticipated, the situation is escalating beyond what most have seen in their professional lifetimes. As you know, the latest reductions from the state will exceed the 5% level of the past months and are projected to be 7.11% for this month’s allocations. Prior to this month, the district has received $500,000 less than our anticipated allocation. This month’s reduction will be approximately $360,000 making the total loss of state revenue almost $900,000. The task for all school districts will be twofold. The first is taking the necessary action to be as efficient as possible for the balance of the school year to insure that we have an appropriate fund balance to begin a new fiscal year in July. The second is to plan for what is certain to be dire budget cuts for the 2011 fiscal year. It has been estimated that the state budget for all state activity could be close to one billion dollars less for the next fiscal year. It is important to remember that the State Stabilization revenue controlled by the governor and other state leaders prevented a massive shortfall in school appropriations this year. There is an equal amount of federal money on hand to assist with this current and future revenue issues. There is also much discussion regarding the application of the state’s Rainy Day Fund to assist with agency shortfalls. It is certain that one or both of these revenue streams will be applied to keep essential services in place. It may be that we have to wait until the legislature convenes in February to know what action our state leaders will opt to take. We will keep you up to date on this matter as it continues to unfold.
ITEM #12 – COMMENTS BY BOARD MEMBERS.
Julie Jenison thanked and congratulated everyone for the positive votes in the bond election. She said she has enjoyed seeing district projects completed. She thanked Lynette Thompson and
Nicole Christopher for their presentations, and said, “It is good to see a little of what you do.” Mrs. Jenison said the Veterans’ Day activities at Wiley Post Elementary was very good and very informative. Her mother always said, “If you learn something new, it is a good day,” and it was a very good day. Staff and students were amazing. The assembly was quite moving with a lot of military past and present there. She commented on what a great thing public education is, and said she will do whatever she can do to sell public education.
Becky Haliburton thanked Teri Voss for her inspirational message. She also thanked everyone who voted in the bond election as well as everyone who worked to inform the public about this election. Mrs. Haliburton thanked the Foundation for their work in support of the bond election. She congratulated Taylor Harris of Putnam City North for being named an outstanding scholar athlete. Mrs. Haliburton also said she was very impressed with the character displayed by Putnam City North quarterback, Jace James at a recent football game.
Mark Bledsoe thanked Teri Voss for reminding us what really matters in the inspirational message. He thanked patrons for the positive votes in the November 10th bond election. Mr. Bledsoe thanked Putnam City High School and Putnam City West High School students for their work with special needs students.
Tammy West said she appreciated student interest in the bond proposal. She also said the “West Fest” was exceptional and well attended. She said she attended several Veterans’ Day assemblies. Mrs. West thanked Patty Balenseifen for the nice reception that Western Oaks Middle School had for the veterans.
Gail LoPresto said she also attended the West Fest. She thanked Mr. Hurst, Mr. Hooper, and Mr. Lindley for their leadership in informing the public about the bond election. She thanked the many others who supported the bond proposal and said the high percentage of yes voters was exciting. She said she attended the Open House at Hilldale Elementary as well as their Veteran’s Day assembly. She was very impressed that the kids were so well behaved. Mrs. LoPresto said she talked to some of the people she worked with about our Veteran’s Day assemblies, and one day one of them commented that they did not think other schools had these assemblies. At Putnam City, it isn’t if we are going to have the assemblies, it is what time of day. She also said she and her husband attended the Putnam City Cancer Classic. Mrs. LoPresto said she is so amazed and proud that so many people attend and participate in the Cancer Classic.
ITEM #13– CONSIDERATION OF AND VOTE ON MOTION TO ENTER INTO EXECUTIVE
SESSION FOR THE PURPOSE OF CONDUCTING AN INFORMAL EVALUATION OF THE
SUPERINTENDENT, AS REQUIRED BY DISTRICT POLICY, PURSUANT TO 25 O.S.,
§307(B)(1) AND (B)(7).
Julie Jenison made a motion at 7:05 p.m. to enter into executive session for the purpose of
conducting an informal evaluation of the Superintendent, as required by district policy, pursuant to
25 O.S. § 307(B)(1) and (B)(7). Mark Bledsoe seconded the motion. Vote: Jenison, aye;
Haliburton, aye; Bledsoe, aye; West, aye; LoPresto, aye.
ITEM #14 – CONSIDERATION OF AND VOTE ON MOTION TO RETURN TO OPEN
SESSION AND TO REQUEST THE BOARD CLERK TO RECORD THE MINUTES OF THE
EXECUTIVE SESSION.
Mark Bledsoe made a motion at 8:40 p.m. to return to open session and to request the Board Clerk
to record the minutes of the executive session. Tammy West seconded the motion. Vote:
Jenison, aye; Haliburton, aye; Bledsoe, aye; West, aye; LoPresto, aye.
MINUTES OF EXECUTIVE SESSION: Board Members Gail LoPresto, Becky Haliburton,
Tammy West, Mark Bledsoe, Julie Jenison; and Superintendent Paul Hurst met in executive
session for the purpose of conducting an informal evaluation of the Superintendent, as required by
district policy, pursuant to 25 O.S. §307 (B)(1) and (B)(7).
ITEM #15 - CONSIDERATION OF AND VOTE ON NEW BUSINESS.
There was no new business.
ITEM #16 – CONSIDERATION OF AND VOTE ON MOTION TO ADJOURN.
Mark Bledsoe made a motion at 8:40 p.m. to adjourn. Tammy West seconded the motion.
Vote: Jenison, aye; Haliburton, aye; Bledsoe, aye; West, aye; LoPresto, aye.
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