The Regular Meeting of the Board of School Directors of the Williamsport Area School District of which all members were duly notified and of which due public notice was given as required by Act 84 of 1986, was held on Tuesday evening, May 16, 2006, beginning at 6:00 p.m. in the Board of Directors’ Room, District Service Center, 201 West Third Street, Williamsport, Pennsylvania.
The President, David B. Stone, Jr., called the meeting to order with the following members:
PRESENT: Karen V. Harris, David A. Huffman, Susan A. Mahaffey, Pamela J. Markle,
Jay B. Shultz, David B. Stone, Jr., James E. Temple, Lois T. Williams,
Thomas A. Zimmerman.
ABSENT: None.
OPENING EXERCISES were provided by Mr. James Temple
SILENT REFLECTION
DISTRICT STRATEGIC PLAN BELIEF STATEMENT # 9
We believe civility and mutual respect are important in a productive community.
PSBA EFFECTIVE SCHOOL GOVERNANCE STANDARD 2 (b)
The Williamsport Area School Board will model responsible governance and leadership by interacting with school officials in other districts and using resources provided by organizations and agencies committed to effective governance and management of public schools.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
APPROVAL OF MINUTES: Regular Meetings: January 17, 2006; February 7 and 21, 2006
Special Meeting: January 24, 2006
Student Representatives’ Report – Sarah Border
BOARD PRESIDENT’S REPORT – Mr. David B. Stone, Jr.
A. Outstanding Student Presentation:
by Kathy Eshelman, Principal
Heckel and Stuart Roe, School Counselors
Carole Heckel and Stuart Roe, School Counselors
Rathjen, Dean of Students
BOARD PRESIDENT’S REPORT CONT’D: – Mr. David B. Stone, Jr.
B. Congratulations to Spencer Wade, a senior at the Williamsport Area High School, for receiving an Air Force ROTC Scholarship to Embry Riddle University.
C. Project 720 Update
D. Congratulations to Cochran and Sheridan Elementary schools for receiving a grant from the Pennsylvania Department to participate in the fresh fruit and vegetable program for 2006-2007. Twenty-five schools in Pennsylvania are chosen to participate. We are very fortunate to have two schools selected since PDE typically selects only one school per district.
E. Motion made by Mrs. Markle, seconded by Mrs. Mahaffey, to approve the following recommendations for the 2006-07 school year. During discussion Mr. Zimmerman indicated his concern about class size in the primary grades and his desire to make progress in lowering the class size.
Motion passed 8-1 with Mr. Zimmerman voting no.
K – 22 1 – 23 2 – 24 3 – 25 4 – 25 5 – 25
School |
K
|
1 |
2
| 3
|
4 |
5
|
Totals |
| Cochran |
4 |
6
|
4 |
3 |
3
|
3 |
23 |
| Hepburn |
3 |
3 |
3
|
3 |
3 |
3
|
18 |
| Jackson |
4 |
5 |
4
|
4 |
4 |
4
|
25 |
| R. Hills |
2 |
2 |
2
|
2 |
2 |
2
|
12 |
| Sheridan |
2 |
2 |
2
|
2 |
2 |
2
|
12 |
| Stevens |
3 |
3 |
3
|
2 |
3 |
3
|
17 |
Totals |
18 |
21
|
18 |
16 |
17
|
17 |
107 |
BOARD PRESIDENT’S REPORT CONT’D: – Mr. David B. Stone, Jr.
F. Motion made by Mrs. Harris, seconded by Mrs. Mahaffey to approve the appointment of
Fred A. Holland, Esq., as the District’s Solicitor for the 2006-2007 fiscal year and establish his compensation to include a retainer of $20,000 ($18,550 since FY94), and an hourly rate of $105 (unchanged from last year) for extraordinary services.
The motion carried by a unanimous roll call.
SUPERINTENDENT’S REPORT – Patricia A. Lowery, Ph.D.
A. Safe Schools/Safe Communities Update
B. Calendar of Events
May 17
WASD Education Foundation meeting 5:30pm
May 18
Professional Development Inservice Day at Cochran, Hepburn-
Lycoming, Jackson, Round Hills, Sheridan, Stevens Elementary Schools
(Elementary students will not be in school)
May 18
Employment Steering Committee meeting 4:00 pm
May 18 ETAC meeting 6:30 pm
May 19
WASD District-Wide Professional Development Inservice Day
May 19 Diversity Day Celebration 5:00 pm
May 26-29
Memorial Day Holiday (students will not be in school)
June 6 WASD School Board meeting at WAHS 6:00 pm
C. On display in the June B. Baskin Gallery through May is The World We Live In: A K-12 Art Exhibition.
Committee Reports by Board Members
Mrs. Williams reminded everyone that Diversity Day would be celebrated on Friday. She indicated that the high school students were helping a lot. The festivities begin at 5:00 p.m. and we need as much help as possible.
Mrs. Markle reported that she attended the School Construction Summit. She said that it was very interesting but the workshops were very in-depth. She stated that she would like to see some construction 101 classes.
Mr. Zimmerman reported that the Elementary Alternative Education Committee met
yesterday.
Mr. Pardoe reviewed the communications procedures they are using with other
buildings and their methods of evaluating students.
Mr. Zimmerman also reported that the PSBA Region 12 meeting was held at BLaST last evening. The PSBA website is undergoing modifications and has more and more information available. The site is experiencing 1,000 hits per day. Governance Standards were reviewed at the meeting.
Mr. Temple excused himself from the meeting at 8:15 p.m.
President Stone called an execution session to discuss terms and conditions of employment for one or more District employees and to receive legal advice from an attorney at 8:18 p.m.
The meeting reconvened at 9:45 p.m.
Mrs. Williams excused herself from the meeting at 9:56 p.m.
Motion made by Mrs. Markle, seconded by Mr. Zimmerman, to approve all items that have not been acted on separately including the minutes and addendum.
The motion carried by a unanimous roll call.
Construction Projects
A. Authorize the submission of PDE-3074(a) self-certification applications for non-reimbursable construction projects, for welding area ventilation at the high school, with a cost estimated of $100,000.
FINANCE REPORT
5.1* Authorize payment of invoices and services rendered by the list submitted marked Order No. 05/16/06 in the amount of $374,332.09, 05/16/06A in the amount of $157,982.03, 05/16/06B in the amount of $1,348,744.13, 05/16/06C in the amount of $7,440.62 and that the officers of the Board of School Directors be directed to execute Order Nos. 05/16/06, 05/16/06A, 05/16/06B and 05/16/06C.
5.2. Motion made by Mrs. Williams, seconded by Mr. Shultz to approve the following resolution authorizing the sale of certain real estate tax claims and liens associated rights and remedies; and making certain determinations and approvals in connection therewith.
RESOLUTION
RESOLUTION OF THE WILLIAMSPORT AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT, WILLIAMSPORT , PENNSYLVANIA, AUTHORIZING THE SALE OF CERTAIN REAL ESTATE TAX CLAIMS AND LIENS AND ASSOCIATED RIGHTS AND REMEDIES; AND MAKING CERTAIN DETERMINATIONS AND APPROVALS IN CONNECTION THEREWITH
WHEREAS, the Williamsport Area School District sometimes hereinafter referred to as the “Taxing Entity”) impose certain real estate taxes upon properties located within the Williamsport Area School District; and
WHEREAS, the Taxing Entity is the holder of numerous claims for delinquent real estate taxes owed in respect of properties in the Williamsport Area School District together with all liens, interest, penalties, costs, charges, additions, expenses, and fees relating to the collection
5.2 Approve the following resolution authorizing the sale of certain real estate tax claims and liens associated cont’d:
of any delinquent account, including reasonable attorneys’ fees added thereto for failure to pay such claims (hereinafter referred to as “Tax Claims”); and
WHEREAS, the Taxing Entity expects in the future to be the holder of additional Tax Claims relating to taxes that are not yet due and owing (hereinafter referred to as “Future Tax Claims”); and
WHEREAS, the sale of said tax claims is authorized by the provisions of the Real Estate Tax Law, as amended, 72 P. S. § 5860.101, et seq . (“Real Estate Tax Sale Law”); and
WHEREAS, the Tax Claims are filed pursuant to the Real Estate Tax Sale Law and, therefore, fall within the purview of the provisions of the Act authorizing assignment or transfer thereof; and
WHEREAS, the Taxing Entity has approved a non-binding term sheet (“Term Sheet”) with Plymouth Park Tax Services LLC, a Delaware limited liability company (“Plymouth Park”), providing for, and setting forth the substantial terms of, a transaction in which the Taxing Entity will sell its Tax Claims and certain Future Tax Claims to Plymouth Park; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to the Term Sheet, it is proposed that Plymouth Park will provide for, inter alia , collection methods for such Tax Claims, together with the Lycoming County Tax Claim Bureau of (the “Tax Claim Bureau”); and
WHEREAS, the Taxing Entity wishes to authorize the sale of Tax Claims and certain Future Tax Claims to Plymouth Park and, inter alia , the taking of such action including execution and delivery of documents, as is necessary and/or appropriate to conclude the sale of the Tax Claims and certain Future Tax Claims;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Board of School Directors of the
Williamsport Area School District (“Governing Body”) as follows:
Sale of Tax Claims by Taxing Entity to Plymouth Park
The sale of Tax Claims to Plymouth Park pursuant to a purchase and sale agreement by and between the Taxing Entity and Plymouth Park (the “ Purchase and Sale Agreement”), substantially in the form of Exhibit A hereto, is hereby authorized and approved. The President, Vice President or Secretary (the “Authorized Officers”) are hereby authorized and directed to execute and deliver on behalf of the Taxing Entity the Purchase and Sale Agreement in form as counsel may advise and an Authorized Officer shall approve, such approval to be conclusively evidenced by an Authorized Officer’s execution of the Purchase and Sale Agreement.
The Taxing Entity is authorized to sell all or any portion of its Tax Claims to Plymouth Park. Any unsold Tax Claims shall be available for substitution for any Tax Claims originally sold to Plymouth Park in accordance with the substitution and repurchase provisions set forth in the Purchase and Sale Agreement.
The Taxing Entity is also hereby authorized to sell all or any portion of its Future Tax Claims to Plymouth Park pursuant to an agreement similar in all material respects to the Purchase and Sale Agreement, subject to further approval of the Board of School Directors.
5.2 Approve the following resolution authorizing the sale of certain real estate tax claims and liens associated cont’d:
Purchase Price
The Taxing Entity shall sell its Tax Claims to Plymouth Park for a purchase price of approximately $ [?], to be adjusted as provided in the Term Sheet. The Taxing Entity acknowledges that the purchase price represents a reasonable value mutually determined by the Taxing Entity and Plymouth Park in arms’ length negotiations and that the consideration for the sale of the Tax Claims is fair and reasonable to the Taxing Entity.
The Taxing Entity is authorized to sell its Future Tax Claims to Plymouth Park for an agreed-upon purchase price that purchase price represents a reasonable value mutually determined by the Taxing Entity and Plymouth Park in arms’ length negotiations and that the consideration for the sale of such Future Tax Claims is fair and reasonable to the Taxing Entity.
Filing with the Tax Claim Bureau
An Authorized Officer is hereby directed to file a copy of this Resolution with
the Tax Claim Bureau promptly upon its adoption.
Ratification of Prior Action
All actions heretofore taken, all costs incurred and all documents and instruments heretofore executed on behalf of the Taxing Entity by an Authorized Officer and any other proper officials of the Taxing Entity in connection with the sale of Tax Claims authorized by this Resolution are hereby ratified, confirmed and approved.
Further Action
The Authorized Officer and any other proper officials of the Taxing Entity are
hereby jointly and severally authorized and directed to take any and all
actions, to approve all costs and to execute any and all documents necessary or
appropriate to effect the sale of Tax Claims and, at the Taxing Entity’s
option, any Future Tax Claims to Plymouth Park as authorized by this
Resolution, consistent with the Term Sheet, including, without limitation, the
execution and delivery of an intergovernmental agreement by and among the
Taxing Entity, the Tax Claim Bureau, and Plymouth Park, substantially in the
form of Exhibit B hereto, and the execution, delivery and recording of
documents of transfer and assignment evidencing the sale of Tax Claims and any
Future Tax Claims authorized hereby. The Authorized Officers and any other
proper officials of the Taxing Entity are hereby jointly and severally
authorized to take any action and execute documents necessary or appropriate to
conclude the sale of the Tax Claims and any Future Tax Claims to Plymouth
Park.
Tax Claim Schedule
The definitive Tax Claim Schedule, when prepared, shall be filed and maintained with the records of the meeting of the [Governing Body] at which this Resolution is adopted.
Commensurate with the sale of any Future Tax Claims to Plymouth Park, the
Taxing Entity hereby agrees to file it with the [Governing Body] at the time of
such sale.
Effective Date
This Resolution shall take effect immediately upon its adoption.
The motion passed 6-1 with Mr. Huffman voting no.
FINANCE REPORT CONT’D:
5.3 Approve budget transfers for FY06, dated May 9, 2006 as presented in accordance with Section 609 of the Public School Code of 1949, as amended:
5.4* Motion made by Mr. Zimmerman, seconded by Mrs. Mahaffey, to adopt the following resolution relative to a proposed budget for the 2006-2007 fiscal year:
RESOLVED: That in accordance with the School Laws of Pennsylvania, 1949 as amended, Section 687, the Board of School Directors of the Williamsport Area School District announces a proposed general fund budget in the amount of funds which will be required by the Williamsport Area School District for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2006, and
RESOLVED FURTHER: That a meeting of the Board of School Directors of the Williamsport
Area School District is scheduled to be held at 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday, June 20, 2006, for the purpose of adopting the general fund budget and such other general business as may be brought before the Board, and
RESOLVED FURTHER: That the Secretary be and is hereby authorized and directed to provide for special notice in a local newspaper that the proposed budget is available for inspection at the Office of the Board Secretary of the Williamsport Area School District,
201 West Third Street, Williamsport, Pennsylvania for all who may be interested:
The following is a summary of the proposed General Fund Budget for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2006:
ESTIMATED BEGINNING FUND BALANCE
AVAILABLE FOR APPROPRIATION 06/30/06 $ 50,000
ESTIMATED REVENUE (Restricted & Unrestricted) 67,673,520
TOTAL ESTIMATED FUND BALANCES AND REVENUES
AVAILABLE FOR APPROPRIATION 67,723,520
ESTIMATED EXPENDITURES AND OTHER
FINANCING USES (Restricted & Unrestricted) 67,673,520
ESTIMATED ENDING UNRESERVED FUND BALANCE 06/30/07 50,000
TOTAL APPROPRIATIONS AND ENDING FUND BALANCE 67,723,520
5.4* Adopt the following resolution relative to a proposed budget for the 2006-2007 fiscal year cont’d:
Although the Tax levy will not be made until the budget is adopted on June 20, 2006, the proposed budget anticipates the following taxes:
06/07
Real Property (11.98 mills 05/06) 12.48
Act 511 Taxes
Earned Income 1½ %
Real Estate Transfer ½ of 1%
The motion passed 6-1 with Mr. Huffman voting no.
BOARD POLICY – James E. Temple
6.1 Approve the second reading and adoption of Policy #246, “Student Wellness.”
CURRICULUM REPORT
7.1 Approve IU 17 to provide job-embedded training for five teachers from Curtin Middle School in the Reading Apprentice Model on May 4th, 2006. The cost is $700 and is funded under the PA School Improvement Grant that Curtin received. The five teachers have participated in five days of training and now will begin the process of implementing the training in the classrooms. The job-embedded focus will provide implementation support for the teachers.
7.2 Approve text for the WAHS Student Folder. Approximate cost is $1,450 and is included in the FY07 high school budget.
7.3 A pprove a ninth grade student survey to gather data relevant to high school projects related to Project 720. Parent permission will be sought before a student completes the survey.
7.4 Approve Theodore R. Piwowar, Director of Career and Technical Education, to submit an application to the Pennsylvania Department of Education for a College and Career Counseling Program grant in the maximum amount available, currently $200,000. The purpose of this funding is to create a vibrant career exploration, career planning and goal setting process for each and every student in grades 8-12 by creating a student-centered career development system facilitated by the school counselors and academic leaders.
7.5 Approve the 2006-07 Hepburn-Lycoming Elementary School Student/ Parent Handbook.
7.6 Approve the 2006-07 Curtin Middle School Student/Parent Handbook.
CURRICULUM REPORT CONT’D:
7.7 A pprove Jackson Elementary School to apply to become an Intermediate Literacy Collaborative School through the Literacy Collaborative of Lesley University. Through this model, a teacher will participate in Literacy Coordinator Training.; the training will occur over eight one week periods from July 31st, 2006 through June 28th, 2007. The approximate total costs for 2006--07 is $49,000. The costs include: Instructional Fees, (including 9 graduate credits), materials, Professional Development modules, School Support, substitute teacher costs, travel expenses (transportation, lodging, meals, etc.). All costs are budgeted under Comprehensive School Reform ($45,000) and Reading Recovery Training Income ($4,000).
7.8 Approve the 2006-07 Roosevelt Middle School Student/Parent Handbook.
7.9 Motion made by Mr. Zimmerman, seconded by Mr. Shultz to TABLE the option of “testing-out” of Health Education for the 2006-07 academic year for the following groups of students:
a. Students of any grade identified at Gifted.
b. Students of any grade who are not identified as Gifted, but carry a cumulative
average of 90.00 or better as of the conclusion of the third marking period.
Formal application to test-out of Health Education would be made through the students’ counselors between May 16, 2006 and May 25, 2006. The counselor will verify that the student meets one of the two criteria above, and will complete the application with the
student, to include the selection of another elective to be placed in the student’s 2006-07 schedule in the event that the student successfully tests out of Health Education. Under no
circumstances will a student be permitted to test out of Health Education in order to schedule a study hall.
Actual testing for students interested in the option and qualified for it will take place Tuesday,
May 30, 2006 for Health 1 and Wednesday, May 31, 2006 for Health 2. Testing out examinations will be given at the high school during periods 6 and 7 of each of those days, and results will be determined as quickly thereafter as possible. Students sitting for the
Examination will be notified of their status, in person or by mail (depending upon the volume of test-takers), and if necessary, will be informed of the substitution of the selected elective
(or its replacement) in the student’s schedule.
Instructors of Health Education have established the level of proficiency required on either of these two examinations to successfully test out of the courses as a grade of 85.
The motion to table passed 7-0.
PERSONNEL REPORT
8.1 RESIGNATIONS
Accept the following resignations, effective on the dates and for the purposes indicated:
A. Karen B. Mazzullo, full-time Administrative Support at Hepburn-Lycoming Elementary School, for the purpose of retirement, effective September 12, 2006.
RESOLVED: that the Board of School Directors of the Williamsport Area School District acknowledges with profound regret the retirement of Karen B. Mazzullo from service in the Williamsport Area Schools and expresses its sincere appreciation for her 30 years of dedicated service to our school system as administrative support. It further expresses the hope that her years of retirement will be many and richly rewarding.
B. Michelle W. Bower, full-time Mathematics teacher at Curtin Middle School, for personal reasons, effective August 23, 2006.
8.2 LEAVES OF ABSENCE - Approve the following leaves of absence:
A. Andrea L. McEntire, full-time Administrative Support at the high school, for an unpaid medical leave, effective May 9, 2006, through July 31, 2006, possibly to return sooner.
Mrs. McEntire has exhausted all sick and/or personal days and began her unpaid leave of absence on May 9, 2006, which will be taken under the Family Medical Leave Act, which entitles the employee to health insurance for a maximum of 12 weeks, but is without pay or any other benefits.
B. Rachael L. Cohick, full-time administrative support at the high school, extension of an unpaid medical leave, effective May 12, 2006, through June 9, 2006. Ms. Cohick has exhausted all sick and/or personal days and is not eligible for leave under the Family Medical Leave Act at this time.
C. Amy R. Boatman, part-time instructional support aide at Round Hills Elementary School, unpaid leave for personal reasons, effective June 8-9, 2006.
D. Sheila M. Chaapel, school bus driver for the District, unpaid leave for personal reasons, effective for April 5, 2006, and April 20-21, 2006.
E. Lisa R. Kelchner, full-time instructional support aide at Curtin Middle School, unpaid leave for personal reasons, effective for one day only on May 12, 2006.
F. Deborah L. McCollum, full-time instructional support aide at the Alternative Education School, unpaid leave for personal reasons, effective June 8-9, 2006.
8.2 LEAVES OF ABSENCE CONT’D:
G. Lisa M. Peacock, general food service worker at Roosevelt Middle School, unpaid leave for personal reasons, effective May 5, 2006 (full day) and May 8, 2006 (¼ day).
H. Darlene R. Wesneski, general food service worker at Round Hills Elementary School, unpaid leave for personal reasons, effective for one-half (½) day only on May 4, 2006.
I. Kimberly A. Whittington, general food service worker at the high school, unpaid leave for personal reasons, effective for May 9-12, 2006.
8.3* ELECTION OF STAFF - Elect the following staff, for the purpose and on the date indicated:
A. The following Technology Education teachers at the high school as production printers, effective June 10, 2006, at the rate established in the Agreement by and between the Board of Directors of the Williamsport Area School District and the Williamsport Education Association ($21.20 per hour before 07/01/06; $21.86 per hour after 07/01/06):
Randy R. Knipe 5847 Daugherty’s Run Rd., Linden
David E. Gephart 5785 Daugherty’s Run Rd., Linden
B. The following as part-time printer’s helpers, at the salary rates indicated, for the actual number of hours worked, effective June 10, 2006:
Todd R. Bosch 2305 Fairview Terrace, Williamsport $5.65 per hour
Graydon J. Root 2012 Roosevelt Ave., Williamsport $5.65 per hour
C. Approve the following staff members as Summer School Teachers for 3½ hours per day, 5 days per week, plus one 30 minute building meeting each week beginning
July 10 through August 4, 2006 at the rate of $26.22 per hour plus appropriate benefits, plus up to two staff development days at $90/day. All costs are budgeted under Title I.
Ritter, Sandra S. 21 Overhill Rd., Williamsport
(replacing Ami McChesney, withdrew from summer school program)
D. Wanda K. Buck, 1462 Hughes Rd., Trout Run, as Summer School Librarian at Cochran Elementary School, for 3½ hours per day, 5 days per week, plus one 30 minute building meeting each week beginning July 10 through August 4, 2006 at the rate of $26.22 per hour plus appropriate benefits, plus one staff development day at $90/day. All costs are budgeted under Sheridan Project Grant.
E. Karen R. Miller, 925 Franklin St., Williamsport, as a Health Room Technician for the Elementary/Middle School Summer School Programs, effective July 10, 2006, through August 4, 2006 (up to 3½ hours per day), plus one date professional development before program start at the current contract rate. All costs are budgeted under Sheridan Project Grant.
8.3* ELECTION OF STAFF CONT’D:
F. Kathy M. Shirey, 503 Eden St., Jersey Shore, as administrative support staff for the Summer School Program at Jackson Elementary School, effective July 10, 2006, through August 4, 2006 (up to 4 hours per day), plus one day to cover office during professional development day, at the current contract rate. All costs are budgeted under Sheridan Project Grant.
G. The following substitute food service workers, at the salary rate of $6.25 per hour, for the actual number of hours worked, effective May 17, 2006:
Beth L. Getgen 2187 Mosser Ave., Williamsport
H. The following persons as non-certificated substitute teacher with receipt of an emergency permit, subject to assignment by the Superintendent of Schools, at the salary and/or rates as established by Board policy, and only for the actual number of hours assigned and worked during the 2005-2006 school year:
James F. Barner P.O. Box 635, Jersey Shore
I. The following substitute teachers, subject to assignment by the Superintendent of Schools, at the salary and/or daily rates as established by Board policy, and only for the actual number of hours assigned and worked:
Nicole L. Gordon 1063 West Fourth St., Apt. 1-W, Williamsport
Matthew S. Kern 57 Ravine Drive, Williamsport (effective 05/15/06)
Angela M. Lutz 822 Franklin St., Williamsport
Patrick E. Bierly 7 Cardinal Lane, Mill Hall
J. The following substitute administrative support/aides, subject to assignment by the Superintendent of Schools, at the hourly rates as established by Board policy, and only for the actual number of hours assigned and worked:
Michelle R. Rentzel 502 Troy Rd., Cogan Station (effective 05/15/06)
K. Madeline T. Bird as Treasurer of the Williamsport Area School District for a term of one year, effective July 1, 2006.
Section 404 of the Public School Code of 1949, as amended, established a one-
year term of office for the Treasurer. Madeline Bird is the Controller/Tax Officer, effective July 1, 2006. That position includes the duties of Treasurer.
L. Aprie Lu Bower, 1407 Walnut St., 2nd Floor, Jersey Shore, as a temporary professional employee, effective with the 2006-2007 school term (scheduled date is August 24, 2006), to teach Mathematics at Curtin Middle School, at a salary rate of Step 2, bachelor’ s, $39,300. Ms. Bower holds a bachelor’s degree from Lock Haven University and is certified in Mathematics (replacing Cheryl Varner, retired January 2006). Ms. Bower was a long-term substitute teacher in this position during the second semester of the 2005-2006 school year. Ms. Bower will also be scheduled to participate in Induction Program activities before the start of the 2006-2007 school term.
8.3* ELECTION OF STAFF CONT’D:
M. Angela C. Lovecchio, 795 Belmont Ave., Williamsport, as a temporary professional employee, effective with the 2006-2007 school term (scheduled date is August 24, 2006), to teach English at the high school, at a salary rate of Step 1, doctorate, $44,150, pending receipt of all necessary paperwork. Mrs. Lovecchio holds a Bachelor’s degree from Boston University and a Juris Doctorate from the University of Pittsburgh Law School and is certified in English (replacing Martha Huddy, retired). Mrs. Lovecchio will also be scheduled to participate in Induction Program activities before the start of the 2006-2007 school term.
N. Andrew M. Otto, 509 Pennsylvania Ave., 2nd Floor, York 17404, as a temporary professional employee, effective with the 2006-2007 school term (scheduled date is August 24, 2006), to teach English/Language Arts at Roosevelt Middle School, at a salary rate of Step 1, master’s, $41,750, pending receipt of all necessary paperwork. Mr. Otto holds a Bachelor’s degree from Messiah College and a Master’s degree from the University of Pennsylvania and is certified in English (replacing Penny Weiskerger, retired). Mr. Otto will also be scheduled to participate in Induction Program activities before the start of the 2006-2007 school term.
O. Kelly A. Taormina, 41 Maple Ave, Williamsport, as a temporary professional employee, effective with the 2006-2007 school term (scheduled date is August 24, 2006), to teach English at the high school, at a salary rate of Step 1, bachelor’s, $38,300. Ms. Taormina holds a Bachelor’s degree from Lycoming College and is certified in English (replacing Rita Sikora, retired). Ms. Taormina will also be scheduled to participate in Induction Program activities before the start of the 2006-2007 school term.
P. Amber Bilbay, 827 St. Michael’s Rd., Cogan Station, as a paid intern in the Tax Office, effective May 17, 2006, for the duration of up to 240 hours, at the rate of $6.25 per hour (no benefits).
Q. Janet Loffredo, 64 Zion View Drive, Linden, as Food Service Production Manager/Delivery Person for the Summer Food Services Program (in conjunction with WASD Sheridan Grant, Title I, YWCA, and West Branch Drug & Alcohol) for up to four (4) hours per day during the period of June 12, 2006 to June 20, 2006 and July 10, 2006 to August 4, 2006, at the hourly rate of $13.44/$13.84 per hour.
R. Linda F. Beck, 3517 Daugherty’s Run Rd., Linden, as a Food Service Worker for the Summer Food Services Program (in conjunction with WASD Sheridan Grant, Title I, YWCA, and West Branch Drug & Alcohol) for up to two (2) hours per day for food preparation during the period of July 10, 2006 to August 4, 2006, at the hourly rate of $11.19 per hour.
8.3* ELECTION OF STAFF CONT’D:
S. Athena G. Leathers, 2212 Mahaffey Lane, Williamsport, as Substitute Food Service Production Manager/Delivery Person for the Summer Food Services Program (in con-junction with WASD Sheridan Grant, Title I, YWCA, and West Branch Drug &
Alcohol) for up to four (4) hours per day during the period of June 12, 2006 to June 20, 2006 and July 10, 2006 to August 4, 2006, at the hourly rate of $13.44/$13.84 per hour.
T. Athena G. Leathers, 2212 Mahaffey Lane, Williamsport, as a Substitute Food Service Worker for the Summer Food Services Program (in conjunction with WASD Sheridan Grant, Title I, YWCA, and West Branch Drug & Alcohol) for up to two (2) hours per day for food preparation during the period of July 10, 2006 to August 4, 2006, at the hourly rate of $11.19 per hour.
8.4* POSITION CHANGES - Approve the following position changes:
A. Michele L. Brobst, 1236 Towncrest Rd., Williamsport, from Health & Physical Education teacher at Curtin Middle School to Dean of Students at Cochran Elementary School, effective August 15, 2006, at a salary of 64,414 plus benefits as provided under the terms of the Act 93 Compensation Plan. Ms. Brobst is currently continuing her education to obtain principal certification (replacing David Michaels, transferred to Principal).
B. Amie L. Palmer, 304 South Pine Run Rd., Linden, from a general food service worker (2 hours daily) at the high school, to a general food service worker (3 hours daily) at the high school, with a base wage rate of $10.19 per hour, effective August 28, 2006 (replacing Phyllis Capps, resigned).
8.5 SALARY CORRECTION
A.
Approve the following correction to an item originally approved on the March 7,
2006 agenda: Randy J. Zangara, 1211 Cherry St., Williamsport, from Business
Education teacher at the high school (currently Dean of Students at Curtin) to
Assistant Principal at Curtin Middle School, effective July 1, 2006, at a
salary of $74,936
$78,791 (or as per Act 93 Plan in effect at that time) and benefits as
provided in the Act 93 Meet and Discuss Compensation Plan, effective July 1,
2006, pending receipt of Principal certification (replacing Kevin Harris,
transferred).
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
9.1 RELEASED TIME/TRAINING PROGRAMS
Approve released time for staff members to participate in professional development activities in accordance with the Professional Development Plan of the Williamsport Area School District and consider approving training programs. All expenditures proposed are within local, state and federal budget categories approved as noted.
STUDENT/COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES
10.1* Approve the following student trips:
A. Forty (40) law students from the Williamsport Area High School, accompanied by their teachers, to travel to the Federal Building during May 2006 to observe a court sentencing and to meet with court employees. Students eligible to participate will not have been suspended from school more than five days; will have no bus disciplinary record; will be passing all major courses; and are not, in the judgment of their house principal, experiencing attendance difficulties. District transportation is requested (10-1390-519-000-30-850-280-033-0000). Two substitutes will be required for the day.
B. Forty-five (45) second grade students from Sheridan Elementary School, accompanied by their teachers and parent volunteers, to travel to Camp Susque (Trout Run) during June 2006 for to participate in outdoor activities. Students eligible to participate will not have received more than two pink slips, detention, Saturday School assignments, or suspensions between May 1 and the date of the trip. District transportation is requested. All costs will be paid by the Sheridan PTO.
C. Six (6) health occupations students from the Williamsport Area High School, accompanied by their teacher, to travel to Sanders Mortuary during May or June 2006 as part of their unit on death and dying. Students eligible to participate will not have been suspended from school more than five days; will have no bus disciplinary record; will be passing all major courses; and are not, in the judgment of their house principal, experiencing attendance difficulties. There will be no cost to the District. The students will be transported by their teacher.
D. Twenty-six (26) food service students from the Williamsport Area High School, accompanied by their teachers, to travel to Ichiban’s during May 2006. Students eligible to participate will not have been suspended from school more than five days; will have no bus disciplinary record; will be passing all major courses; and are not, in the judgment of their house principal, experiencing attendance difficulties. District transportation is requested (10-1390-519-000-30-850-280-033-0000). The cost of the students’ lunches will be paid from tips earned from the Millionaire Café.
E. Approximately 100 physics students from the Williamsport Area High School, accompanied by their teachers and parent volunteers, to travel to Knoebel’ s Grove Amusement Park during May 2006 to conduct physics experiments. Students eligible to participate will not have been suspended from school more than five days; will have no bus disciplinary record; will be passing all major courses; and are not, in the judgment of their house principal, experiencing attendance difficulties. Transportation will be provided by contract carrier due to the fact that district transportation was unavailable that day due to the number of trips. One substitute will be required for half the day.
10.1* Approve the following student trips cont’d:
F. Ten (10) Roosevelt Middle School students, accompanied by their librarian and a parent volunteer, to travel to the Taber Museum and Bonanza during June 2006 as a reward for being a top AR point earner. Students eligible to participate must be in compliance with the school’s field trip disciplinary requirements in order to participate. The students will be transported by River Valley Transit. All costs will be paid by the Roosevelt PTO.
G. Twenty-two (22) life skills students from Lycoming Valley Middle School, accompanied by their teachers and three aides, to travel to the Williamsport Area High School during June 2006 for an orientation. District transportation is requested and will be paid from the special education budget.
H. Nine (9) journalism students from the Williamsport Area High School, accompanied by their teacher, to travel to Creative Images during May 2006 to have a picture taken and to discuss photography with a professional. Students eligible to participate will not have been suspended from school more than five days; will have no bus disciplinary record; will be passing all major courses; and are not, in the judgment of their house principal, experiencing attendance difficulties. There will be no cost to the District. The students will transport themselves to the studio.
I. Approximately 150 third, fourth, and fifth grade students from Hepburn-Lycoming Elementary School, accompanied by their teachers, travel to Faxon Bowling Lanes during June 2006 as a reward for the students meeting their fourth marking period AR goal. Students eligible to participate will not have been suspended or assigned to Saturday school within 30 days prior to the trip. District transportation is requested. All costs will be paid by the Hepburn-Lycoming PTO.
10.2 Approve the following request for facility use:
A. Saint John’s School of the Arts to use the auditorium at the Williamsport Area High School on June 20 and 29 and July 6, 11, 18 and 27, 2006, from 6:00 p.m. to
8:30 p.m. to hold youth wind ensemble rehearsal. St. John’s is requesting relief of the occupancy fee estimated at $300.00. Certificate of Insurance on file.
B. Dr. June Baskin Visual Arts Fund Project/Williamsport Foundation to use the Art Room at Curtin Middle School, June 19 through June 23, 2006, from 8:30 a.m. to
1:00 p.m. to hold an Art Camp for county students. The Foundation is requesting relief of the occupancy fee estimated at $75.00. Certificate of Insurance on file.
C. Williamsport Symphony to use the auditorium at Curtin Middle School (in case of
inclement weather) on June 23, July 9, July 23, August 6 and 20, 2005 from 4:00 p.m. until 8:30 p.m. to hold various concerts (scheduled for Brandon Park). The
Williamsport Symphony is requesting relief of the occupancy fees estimated at
$200.00. Custodial fees will be paid by the Williamsport Symphony. Certificate of Insurance on file.
10.2 Approve the following request for facility use:
D. Williamsport Symphony to use the auditorium at the Williamsport Area High School on October 1, 2, and 3 and February 4 and 5, 2007 from 6:30 p.m. until
10:30 p.m. to hold rehearsals. The Williamsport Symphony is requesting relief of the occupancy fees estimated at $250.00. Certificate of Insurance on file.
10.3 Approve the filing of an application for participation in the Summer Food Service Program.
Reimbursement is based on the actual cost or maximum reimbursement per meal which ever is less. Additional reimbursement is provided to offset administrative costs.
The Summer Food Service Program meal preparation is proposed for Jackson Elementary.
Breakfast will be distributed for the WASD Sheridan Grant and Title I Program at Cochran Elementary School, Jackson Elementary School, Curtin Middle School, Lycoming Valley Middle School and Roosevelt Middle School.
Lunch and snack will be distributed to YWCA.
Breakfast and snack will be distributed to The Center.
Breakfast and lunch will be distributed to Roosevelt Camp Ophelia.
BIDS/CONTRACTS
11.1 Authorize a change in plan administrators from the Bencor National Plan to the AIG
Variable Annuity Life Insurance Company (VALIC) for the District’s 403(b) Special Pay Plan and authorize the execution of the related documents.
April 6, 2006 and effective as of July 1, 2006.
11.3 Appoint the Business Administrator as the Trustee to represent the Williamsport Area School District in the Lycoming County Insurance Consortium.
11.4 Appoint the Director of Human Resources as the Alternate Trustee to represent the Williamsport Area School District, in the absence of the Business Administrator, in the
Lycoming County Insurance Consortium.
11.5 Award a three-year contract with Jostens Publishing Company for the printing of the 2007, 2008 and 2009 LaMemoire yearbook at a cost of $25,500, $26,265 and $27,052. Three sealed bids were received and Jostens was the low bid.
TAX ITEMS - None
ITEMS FROM BOARD MEMBERS
President Stone wished Mr. Huffman well in the election.
ITEMS FROM PUBLIC – None
Upon motion made by Mrs. Markle, seconded by Mrs. Mahaffey and carried the meeting adjourned at 10:40 p.m.
_____________________________________
Charles E. Peterson, Jr. Board Secretary