BERLIN BOARD OF EDUCATION

August 20, 2007

MINUTES

REGULAR MEETING

Attendance: Gary Brochu

Julie Erickson

William Lutz

Diane Mancini

Kathleen O’Donnell-Moss

Christopher Puzio

Anthony Recck

John Richards

Rachel Rochette

Also in attendance: Superintendent of Schools Dr. Michael Cicchetti; Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction Rena Klebart; Director of Business Operations Roman Czuchta; Principal of McGee Middle School Brian Benigni; Principal of Berlin High School George Synnott; Athletic Director James Day; and McGee Middle School Department Supervisor of Mathematics Anand Chaudhuri.

I. CALL TO ORDER

Mr. Brochu called the meeting to order at 7:36 p.m. in the Board of Education (“the Board”) meeting room at 238 Kensington Road, Berlin, CT. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited and a moment of silence was observed.

At this time, agenda item IV was moved up in the agenda. Hearing no objection, the item was addressed.

IV. PERSONNEL

Anticipated Appointment of Human Resources Director

Moved by Ms. O’Donnell-Moss, seconded by Mr. Puzio, that the Board of Education appoint Joseph J. Costa to the position of Human Resources Director, effective November 1, 2007.

FAVOR: ALL

MOTION CARRIED: 9:0; including President Brochu

A short recess was taken from 7:42 p.m. to 7:46 p.m., to congratulate Mr. Costa on his appointment.

II. BOARD AND ADMINISTRATIVE COMMUNICATIONS

Ms. Mancini reported on her visit this Saturday to Project Oceanology in Groton, Connecticut.

Mr. Richards reported the Resources and Capacity-building Committee will bring to the Board this evening (1) the cafeteria report and year end status; (2) a proposed new policy responding to CIAC requirements; and (3) the year-end unaudited balance, to be returned to the Town.

Ms. Erickson reported on her attendance at the wonderful performance of Carousel sponsored by UpBeat and the town’s community theater.

Ms. Rochette reported on the cafeteria negotiations.

Mr. Recck reported on the program Lose My Training Wheels, in which one of his children participated. Mr. Recck will provide Ms. Butler with more information because of the program’s huge success. Mr. Recck provided Ms. Butler with the book entitled The Special Needs Acceptance Book. Mr. Recck remarked he would be more than happy to supply each school in the district with a copy.

Ms. O’Donnell-Moss echoed Ms. Erickson’s comments concerning the performance of Carousel and also reported on the behind the scenes work performed by UpBeat’s high school students. Ms. O’Donnell-Moss reported the Berlin Education Council’s first meeting is scheduled for September 26, 2007.

Ms. Butler reported on new staff hiring, staff training and curriculum work that took place over the summer. Ms. Butler anticipates approximately thirteen students to be placed out of district for the upcoming school year. Two will be DCF placements, and the remaining 11 are of our choosing.

Ms. Klebart reported on her attendance along with Dr. Cicchetti at a leadership institute at the Harvard Graduate School of Education in July. Ms. Klebart reported on her participation along with Brian Benigni and Laurie Gjerpen at the three-day training program on developing common formative assessments at the Center for Performance Assessment in Denver, also in July. Ms. Klebart reported the district will offer a Fall Teacher Academy, which will include presentations by teachers who attended responsive classroom this summer. Ms. Klebart reported on curriculum work and the work done with the administrators on data teams that took place over the summer.

Dr. Cicchetti reported Sean Cavanaugh has begun his work as districtwide data specialist. Dr. Cicchetti reported on the PowerPoint presentation presented at the leadership institute at the Harvard Graduate School of Education in July and indicated he would bring the presentation to the Board in September. Dr. Cicchetti reported on an email he received from Lois Garrison regarding Berlin’s Media Specialist Deborah Lamont who presented at the State’s Alternative Program for Certification for Teachers to become Library Media Specialist. Ms. Garrison remarked on the outstanding job and the quality work of Ms. Lamont. Dr. Cicchetti also reported on a letter received from the Connecticut Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance wherein Linda Germain has been selected as the Middle School Physical Education Teacher of the Year for 2007. Dr. Cicchetti reported on his attendance at the performance of Carousel and remarked on both the quality of the performance and the degree of volunteerism by members of the community.

Mr. Brochu reminded Board members that they are invited to attend the new teacher orientation that will take place on Wednesday, August 22, 2007 and the opening day breakfast and convocation on Monday, August 27, 2007. Mr. Brochu reminded the Board of the early sign ups for the CABE convention. Anyone interested in attending needs to let the administration know. Mr. Brochu asked that Board members have their calendars available at the end of the meeting to schedule dates for the Board’s self evaluation and the Board’s retreat. Mr. Brochu presented Athletic Director James Day with a Certificate of Recognition for years of service as Berlin’s wrestling coach.

Recognition of Retirement – Estelle Kulak

Dr. Cicchetti along with the Board of Education and Mr. Synnott recognized Estelle Kulak who has retired as the bookkeeper in the high school office. Ms. Kulak was unable to be at tonight’s meeting.

 

III. AUDIENCE OF CITIZENS

Mr. David Evans of 1233 Worthington Ridge, Berlin, Connecticut, addressed the Board concerning the Board’s Statement of Need and a recent article that appeared in the Berlin Citizen which discussed the projected increase of students in schools and what Berlin will look like in another 25 years. Mr. Evans commented on the projections in the Statement of Need tables illustrated by NESDEC. Mr. Evans felt this may be a point of discussion for the report.

Mr. Brochu remarked this article came out after NESDEC’s report. Mr. Czuchta remarked the State looked at historical data only and that the State’s projection of future growth is showing is pretty much in agreement with what NESDEC provided over a year ago. Mr. Czuchta indicated that if one looks only at historical data, there is a flattening of growth. The tables in the Statement of Need take into consideration the projected growth based on housing in process right now or on the books in Berlin versus just historical data.

IV. PERSONNEL

Human Resources Director (moved up in the agenda; see it after I. Call to Order)

V. CONSENT AGENDA

1. Approval of Minutes

1. Regular Meeting of June 25, 2007

2. Regular Meeting of July 16, 2007

1. Payment of Bills – Period ending June 30, 2007 and July 31, 2007

1. Resignations

Sandra Kujawski, special education teacher at Mary E. Griswold School, has submitted her letter of resignation effective July 20, 2007.

Jennifer Guzman, 0.5 special education teacher at Mary E. Griswold School, has submitted her letter of resignation effective August 1, 2007.

Moved by Ms. Erickson, seconded by Mr. Recck, to add an item to the Consent Agenda concerning resignation.

FAVOR: ALL

MOTION CARRIED: 8:0

Ann Martorana, Integrated Language Arts/Social Studies teacher at Catherine M. McGee Middle School, has submitted her resignation effective August 16, 2007.

Moved by Ms. Rochette, seconded by Ms. Puzio , to approve the consent agenda as amended.

FAVOR: ALL

MOTION CARRIED: 8:0

At this time, item VII C. was moved up in the agenda. Hearing no objection, the item was addressed.

VII. RECOMMENDED ACTION

C. Textbook Adoption

At the request of Principal Brian Benigni and the textbook evaluation committee members, the textbook, Pre-Algebra, by Malloy, Molix-Bailey, Price, and Willard, and published by Glencoe McGraw-Hill, is recommended for purchase. This textbook will be used by grade 7 pre-algebra students. Messrs. Chaudhuri and Benigni explained the details and rationale as well as answered questions from the Board for the adoption of this textbook as well as long range goals for the math program at McGee and the high school. Board members expressed support for the restructuring of the math sequence – primarily instituting algebra for the majority of eighth grade students - which will allow significantly more students to take calculus in grade 12.

Moved by Ms. Mancini, seconded by Ms. Rochette, to approve the adoption of the textbook, Pre-Algebra, by Malloy, Molix-Bailey, Price, and Willard, and published by Glencoe McGraw- Hill.

FAVOR: ALL

MOTION CARRIED: 8:0

VI. INFORMATION AND REPORTS

1. Report on Food Services Program

Director of Business Operations Roman Czuchta and Director of Food Services Timothy Prosinski presented the final budget report for the Food Services Program for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2007 and discussed this year’s operations and identified the four areas of concern: decreased type A lunch sales; decreased a la carte sales; vending machine commissions decline; and increased labor and food costs. Messrs. Czuchta and Prosinski also discussed the program’s plans for the future. The final budget report was enclosed in the Board’s packet. Mr. Czuchta reported the Cafeteria Fund had a net loss of $16,142.55 as of June 30, 2007; however, this does not mean the program itself is in a deficit situation. It simply is a year-to-year operational statement. The program is solvent.

At this time, item VII B. was moved up in the agenda. Hearing no objection, the item was addressed.

VII. RECOMMENDED ACTION

B. Public Act 06-63 An Act Concerning Healthy Foods and Beverages in

Schools

Over the course of the past school year, the Board and administration, as well as representatives from parent organizations and booster clubs, have had several discussions regarding the district’s participation in the grant program that is part of Public Act 06-63. It is the consensus of Board members and administration that the district decline participation in this grant program for the 2007-08 school year. Director of Business Operations Roman Czuchta and Director of Food Services Timothy Prosinski project that any funding received from the grant will be more than offset by losses in sales and fundraising efforts due to the restrictions that the grant imposes on districts. This is supported by what other districts have reported from their experiences during the 2006-07 school year. Separate and apart from Berlin’s participation in the grant program, changes made this past school year with respect to food services offerings have provided students with more healthy food choices during lunches. In addition, more attention has been given to the types of refreshments provided throughout the school day and at evening programs.

 

Moved by Mr. Richards, seconded by Mr. Lutz, that the Berlin Board of Education will not participate in the optional Healthy Foods Certification program under Public Act 06-63 for the 2007-08 school year.

Mr. Richards commented this does not mean the Board approves unhealthy behavior. The standard that is needed to participate is very restrictive, not only in the cafeterias but also with parent organizations and booster clubs and their ability to conduct successful fundraisers.

In response to Ms. Mancini’s request that fundraisers meet the requirements for more healthy choices, it is the consensus of the Board that these fundraisers produce a tremendous amount of revenue for equipment and cultural programs and the money from the grant would be less than the loss of revenue received from the fundraisers. The Board noted Ms. Mancini’s concern for the encouragement of healthy snacks, especially when students bring things into the classroom to celebrate special occasions, like birthdays.

FAVOR: ALL

MOTION CARRIED: 8:0

In order to continue selling soda during after school events only, the Board of Education must annually approve such sales in accordance with P.A. 06-63, An Act Concerning Healthy Beverages in Schools. It is recommended that the Board extend it’s approval of the sale of soda during after school events, which are defined by P.A. 06-63 as “an occurrence that involves more than just a regularly scheduled practice, meeting, or extracurricular activity.” As during the 2006-07 school year, these sales will occur outside of the school day.

Moved by Ms. Rochette, seconded by Mr. Recck, that the Berlin Board of Education allow the sale of beverages (to students) that are not listed in section 1 of Public Act 06-63 in accordance with conditions stated in Public Act 06-63 for the 2007-08 school year.

FAVOR: ALL

MOTION CARRIED: 8:0

VI. INFORMATION AND REPORTS (cont.)

1. Update on Educational Specifications (Statement of Need) for New High

School

Resources and Capacity-building Committee Chairperson John Richards reported on the status of the Statement of Need that was submitted to the town manager on June 29, 2007, and subsequently discussed by the Town Council during their meetings of July 10 and 24. The Council will gather any questions it may have, and ask for the Board to make a presentation to it regarding the Statement of Need at a future Council meeting. At this point, the Resources and Capacity-building Committee is waiting for confirmation as when the Board will present to the Council.

C. Board Self Evaluation

Mr. Brochu reported that surveys and questionnaires have gone out to all the administrators seeking feedback for the Board’s self evaluation. Mr. Brochu also had copies of the Board’s self reflection questions that were utilized by Board members last year to help them prepare for their self evaluation session. Mr. Brochu suggested October1 as a possible date for a special meeting. This would allow the Board to meet prior to their retreat later in October.

At this time, item VI E. was moved up in the agenda. Hearing no objection, the item was addressed.

VI. INFORMATION AND REPORTS

1. New Policy JFCL - Code of Conduct for Athletics Participation – First Reading

CIAC (Connecticut Interscholastic Athletics Conference) requires each member high school to submit each year a copy of its written Board-approved policy and procedures for dealing with the use, sale, or possession of alcohol or controlled drugs and alcohol. The policy must address how violations affect student-athletes and must contain certain provisions. The Board was provided with the proposed policy that was prepared by Shipman & Goodwin in response to the provisions that CIAC is requiring of school districts. The policy will be used in conjunction with the high school’s existing Athletic Department Training Rules and Agreement to Participate document (contract), a copy of which was included in the agenda packet. The proposed policy was reviewed by the Board’s Resources and Capacity-building Committee. Since this is a first reading, action is not requested at this time. Board action will be requested at the September 10 Board of Education meeting.

In response to Mr. Richards’ question concerning who is a member of CIAC, Mr. Day indicated the individual schools, McGee and the high school, are all CIAC members.

In response to Ms. Erickson’s question concerning who pays the penalty that may be levied against a school for a violation, Mr. Day answered the school.

Mr. Richards commented on section 6 (e) on page 5 of the policy and the higher standard that Berlin maintains in its contract with respect to suspension of athletes from teams for contact violations. Mr. Lutz remarked Berlin’s student contract from our athletic department is significantly more stringent than the suggested policy language in section 6 (e). Dr. Cicchetti reported he will work with Mr. Synnott, Mr. Day, and the Board’s attorney concerning alternative language, which will be brought back to the Board for their second reading and approval on September 10.

1. Superintendent’s Report: District’s Readiness for the Opening of School

Superintendent of Schools Michael Cicchetti, along with members of the central office cabinet, reported of the district’s preparation for the opening of school on August 29.

Dr. Cicchetti reported that the district is ready for the 2007-2008 school year. Dr. Cicchetti reported that the opening day breakfast and convocation will be held on Monday, August 27, 2007 at which time Berlin will celebrate its Teacher of the Year, Linda Germain, as well as recognize Years of Service Award Recipients and Tenure Recipients. In terms of staffing, Dr. Cicchetti indicated Berlin is in excellent shape. There are a few administrative positions that became open after the end of June and the district is in the process of filling them.

Mr. Czuchta stated the bus routes will be published in the Berlin Citizen and New Britain Herald on Thursday, August 23, 2007. Mr. Czuchta reported on the renovations to two sets of bathrooms at the high school. Mr. Czuchta reported on the rewriting project at Hubbard and Griswold Schools, which is funded by a grant, and should be 80% complete by the beginning of the school year. Mr. Czuchta reported that Berlin was able to lock in a favorable rate for the heating, utilities and gas and is within the budgeted amounts.

Ms. Klebart reported on what will be done for new teacher orientation, which will incorporate work that has been done on rigor, respect and relevance; technology pieces; introduction of the new professional growth and evaluation plan; and the continuous improvement model. Ms. Klebart discussed the professional development that will take place on August 27 and 28. Ms. Klebart also presented the Board with the framework for the school year regarding professional development. Board members expressed appreciation for the high quality professional development that will provided for teachers, administrators, and the Board.

1. New Policy JFCL - (moved up in the agenda; see it after VI. C. Board Self Evaluation)

1. Activity Fund Reports

1. Berlin High School Enterprise Fund – Period ending May 31, 2007 and

June 30, 2007

2. Berlin Public Schools Activity Fund – Period ending May 31, 2007 and

June 30, 2007

3. Cafeteria Fund – Period ending May 31, 2007 and June 30, 2007

These reports were noted with interest.

G. Final Report – 2006/2007 Fiscal Year

Director of Business Operations Roman J. Czuchta reported that, at the Board’s direction, Berlin ended the year with a positive balance of $8,251.63.

VII. RECOMMENDED ACTION

A. Motion to Return Balance of 2006-2007 FY to Town’s General Fund

Director of Business Operations Roman J. Czuchta indicates that the unaudited balance of the 2006-2007 fiscal year is $8,251.63. A motion is in order to return this amount to the Town of Berlin General Fund.

Moved by Ms. Rochette, seconded by Ms. Erickson, that the unaudited balance of the 2006-2007 fiscal year Board of Education Budget, in the amount of $8,251.63, be returned to the Town of Berlin General Fund.

FAVOR: ALL

MOTION CARRIED: 8:0

B. Public Act 06-63 An Act Concerning Healthy Foods and Beverages in Schools

(moved up in the agenda; see it after VI. A. Report on Food Services Program)

1. Textbook Adoption (moved up in the agenda; see it after V. Consent Agenda)

VII. EXECUTIVE SESSION

Status Report – CHRO Claim

At 9:44 p.m., a motion was made by Mr. Recck, seconded by Mr. Puzio, to go into Executive Session to discuss the Status Report – CHRO Claim.

FAVOR: ALL

MOTION CARRIED: 8:0

In attendance for Executive Session were Board members Brochu, Erickson, Lutz, Mancini, O’Donnell-Moss, Puzio, Recck, Richards, and Rochette. In addition, Dr. Cicchetti and Mr. Czuchta were present.

At 10:05 p.m., a motion was made by Mr. Recck, seconded by Mr. Lutz, to return to regular session.

FAVOR: ALL

MOTION CARRIED: 8:0

IX. ADJOURNMENT

Moved by Mrs. O’Donnell-Moss, seconded by Mrs. Erickson, to adjourn the meeting at 10:07 p.m.

FAVOR: ALL

MOTION CARRIED: 8:0

Respectfully submitted,

John M. Richards, Secretary

Berlin Board of Education

(JMR:bjd orig 8/20/07; Supt review on 8/29; JMR Final 9/5/07)

Attachment	Size
BBOE_Minutes_8-20-07.pdf	131.52 KB