The regular meeting of the Board of Education of the Rock Island-Milan School District was held Monday, February 11, 2002 in the Library at Rock Island High School. A work session on Board Governance was held at 5:00 p.m. The meeting was called to order at 6:00 p.m.

Members Present: Ms. Elma "Mooch" Gay, Mr. Steve Clark, Mr. Bill Cleaver, Ms. Linda Dothard, Mr. Jim Gremanis, Ms. Sue McDevitt, and Ms. Krystall White

Member Absent: Mr. Lance Chaney, Ms. Jill North, and Ms. Brianne Silas

Staff Present: Dr. Dave Markward, Dr. I.V. Foster, Jr., Ms. Kay Ingham, Mr. J. Jay Marino, Mr. Mike Oberhaus, and Dr. Dawn Snyder

A motion was made by Mr. Jim Gremanis and seconded by Mr. Bill Cleaver to approve the minutes of the regular meeting of January 22, 2002 and special meetings of January 16, 2002 and February 1, 2002 as corrected. All members present voting "Aye," the President declared the motion carried.

Ms. Dothard received a copy of a letter to the Rock Island High School Athletic Department from the IHSA regarding the sportsmanship of our football team. Rocky­s football team received the "Sporting A Winning Attitude" award submitted by football officials. Ms. Dothard congratulated our football team, coaches and high school staff.

Ms. Dothard congratulated the Rock Island High School speech team for finishing fourth place in the Geneseo Sectional tournament. Rocky placed seven events in the final rounds and will advance all seven events to the State Championships at Downers Grove South. Junior Jesse Sparks was crowned tournament champion in Radio Speaking and Runner-Up in Oratorical Declamation. Junior Brandi Morrow and Sophomore Scottie Gelski were crowned Sectional Champions in Humorous Duet Acting. Scottie Gelski placed third in Prose Reading and Brandi Morrow teamed up with Alex Berger to finish third in Dramatic Duet Acting. Sophomore Alex Berger was Sectional Runner-Up in Special Occasion Speaking. The team­s performance in the round consisting of Annie Aronson, Leslie Day, Auston McLain, Brannon Ramsdale, Pat Traylor, and Ashley Zerjav was crowned tournament champions for the second straight week.

Mr. Gremanis recognized Washington Jr. High School student Michael Dechert who received first place in a regional "MATHCOUNTS" competition on February 2, 2002. Washington­s team consisted of John Langenderfer, Bryan Schuldt, Michael Dechert and Austin Green who will all advance to the state finals.

Mr. Clark stated that he attended a meeting at Longfellow Elementary School regarding the possibility of closing the school. He commended Dr. Markward for answering questions and providing financial information to the concerned parents and neighbors of Longfellow. Mr. Clark thanked Principal Bill Osborne and Phil Dennis for doing a fine job in chairing the meeting. Mr. Clark also commended the parents for their concerns and their sincere attempt to gather more information on our financial situation.

Ms. McDevitt reported on the Call to Action committee who met on February 5^th.The purpose of this meeting was to initiate community discussion leading to action to address the disparity in academic achievement between large numbers of minority students and their peers. Ms. McDevitt stated that all but one person invited came to the meeting. It is impressive that people put this at the top of their priorities. The committee has representatives from the City of Rock Island, businesses, district parents and school district personnel. She feels the administration did an excellent job of presenting the facts concerning achievement right now. This committee will meet on a regular basis.

Mr. Gremanis reminded everyone of the annual Night of 1000 Dreams to be held on April 12, 2002.

Ms. Gay attended a workshop on School Board Governance on February 2^nd and presented information earlier tonight to fellow Board members in a work session.

Ms. Gay reported on the Head Start national review that took place last week. The national review team reviewed everything about the Head Start program and announced that there were no findings or discrepancies in the program. They also stated that we had the finest fiscal manager that they had ever seen. They also had never had any Head Start Policy Council with a representative from the Board of Education serving. Ms. Gay commended the entire Head Start staff for their hard work and dedication in planning for this review.

Ms. Gay stated that Rock Island hosted the Large Unit District Association (LUDA) meetings on Thursday and Friday of last week. A business meeting was held at Royal Neighbors of America with the dinner at the Abbey Station. Friday­s breakfast and workshops were held at the Four Points Sheraton. She heard good reports from the LUDA superintendents regarding the accommodations and dinner. Ms. Gay complimented Dr. Markward and Kim Colson for their hard work in organizing the LUDA events.

Krystall White reported that the Girls Bowling Team finished their season at the State Finals on February 9, 2002. The Rocks moved on to Saturday­s finals after finishing sixth place on February 8, 2002. They slipped to tenth place out of 120 teams, failing to qualify for the final round. The outstanding tenth place finish is the top state finish for the Rocks since 1997. Members of the state squad were Seniors Lindsay Stegall, Ashley Rosenthal, Dani Smith and Jen Kerner, Juniors Kristin Rice and Anna Youngblood, Sophomore Heather Houseman and Freshman Brittany Jones.

Ms. White also reported on the Rocky Academic Team who brought home another second place trophy from a tournament in Sterling on February 9, 2002. The team lost to Loyola from Chicago by a narrow margin. All-Star trophies were awarded to Louis Young and John Vogel.

Dr. Markward reviewed the agenda additions of Item VIII. C. Special Needs Requisitions - textbook copyright date of 2001, Item XI. D. Executive Session to discuss the dismissal of an employee, and Item XI. E. Termination of Employee.

Mr. Jay Pienta reported on the Reflections Awards Ceremony held on February 5^th. Out of 1,050 entries, 877 advanced to the district level. Based on our district membership, only 32 could advance to the state level. Out of that 32, four finalists were from our school district. Two finalists were from Audubon Elementary School. There are some very talented kids out there both in music and literature from Kindergarten to 12^th grade and the quality of work is amazing. The 2003 Reflections theme for next year is "Signs of Courage." Ms. Gay requested the list of winners for formal recognition by the Board. Mr. Pienta will provide the list.

Mr. Dan Miller stated that he has spoken to the Board regarding budget issues far too many times. Tonight Board members will be given information regarding cuts. The Association is hoping Board members will look at several things, ask the questions, leave no stone unturned and make sure you do your job to the best of your ability. He asked Board members to think about the young teachers we have on board now who in a few years will be our older teachers. We need to hold on to those people. We need to make sure the programs you vote on are strong enough to keep Rock Island going in a positive direction. Mr. Miller stated that in the past he has not been this calm, but this is a time to be very thought-ful and very careful. We know we have a surplus so please use it judiciously. As you deliberate tonight and over the next few weeks, please feel free to call the Association with any questions or need for help. Mr. Miller thanked the Board for their time and wished them God speed on what they have to do.

None.

Dr. Markward introduced State Representative Joel Brunsvold who made a presentation to the Board regarding state funding for the Fitness Center at Rock Island High School. Mr. Brunsvold stated that about two years ago he received a call from Vic Boblett who wanted to put a roof on the old Vo-Tech building so it would be used as a fitness enter. After this initial discussion he had several meetings with Dr. Markward and Board members to discuss a solution to save the Vo-Tech building.

Mr. Brunsvold presented an additional $325,000 in state grant funding bringing the total contribution to $881,075. Mr. Brunsvold stated for all intents and purposes, it will take care of the fitness center.

Mr. Brunsvold thanked the Board for taking the leap of faith and trusting him to finish the project. The district now has $325,000 more for the Fitness Center which should finish up the center and final comple-tions. It­s good to see this fitness building done since he didn­t have it here when he was in school, as he worked out in the "dungeon." This will be a nice place for all students to use during their high school careers. It will also give Rock Island another chance to be competitive with the rest of the area schools.

Mr. Brunsvold received a round of applause and standing ovation from the Board and members of the audience. Ms. Gay stated that Joel Brunsvold is and always has been a true Ôfriend of education.­ Mr. Clark stated that it­s easy to have faith in the person who is asking you to take the leap.

Dr. Markward requested that the Board add Item XI. D. Executive Session and Item XI. E. Termination of Employee.

• Approve Agenda

• Blanket Motion

It was moved by Ms. Linda Dothard, seconded by Mr. Jim Gremanis, and unanimously carried by a roll call vote that the following items be approved as a blanket motion.

VII. C.. That the Board of Education approve the purchase of special education textbooks (copyright date of 2001) from American Guidance Service at a total cost of $6,590.65 as follows:

American Guidance Service: United States Government à 15 student books, teacher materials; Exploring Literature à 20 student books, teacher materials; World Literature - 20 student books, teacher materials; English to Use - 20 student books, teacher materials; Basic English Composition - 20 student books, teacher materials; Basic English Composition - 20 student books, teacher materials; American Literature - 25 student books, teacher materials

IX. C. That the Board of Education approve the December Financial Statements.

IX. D. That the Board of Education authorize Bills for Payment dated February 1, 2002.

X. That the Board of Education approve Student Expulsion No. 1/3/6.

XI. A. That the Board of Education approve the following certified appointments:

Susan M. Scudder à Reading-Title I/Lincoln Elementary School/Salary $11,935.80 (based on 81 days with a base salary of $26,524.00)

XI. B. That the Board of Education approve the Leave of Absence for Heather Diaz-Conrado as presented.

XI. C. That the Board of Education approve the following non-certified appointments:

Susan Bishop à Special Education Paraprofessional for Physically Handicapped/SKIP/ Salary $3,929.26 (based on 79 days with a base salary of $8,952.84)

Doris Gamble à Title I Reading Paraprofessional/Grant Intensive Basic School/Salary $4,316.18 (based on 88 days with a base salary of $9,319.12)

John Kerschieter à Cafeteria Supervisor/Earl Hanson Elementary School/Salary $7.10 an hour

Ray Light à Special Education Paraprofessional/Grant Intensive Basic School/Salary $3,387.33 (based on 86 days with a base salary of $7,483.72)

Gloria Nielsen à Special Education Paraprofessional for Physically Handicapped/SKIP/ Salary $3,111.61 (based on 79 days with a base salary of $7,089.84)

Sue Schaecher à Playground and Cafeteria Supervisor/Thomas Jefferson Elementary School/Salary $7.10 an hour

Hope Spencer à Title I Reading Paraprofessional/Grant Intensive Basic School/Salary $3,727.65 (based on 76 days with a base salary of $3,727.65)

Adrian Stoner à Playground and Cafeteria Supervisor/Audubon Elementary School/Salary $7.10 an hour

Ann Wilkinson, District Mentoring Director, introduced Carl Hess and Timothy Graham, representatives from H.O.S.T.S. Mr. Hess and Mr. Graham provided information about the mentoring/student assistance program. A video was presented focusing on helping students succeed, step by step, one by one, and that we­ll see them through. Mr. Graham provided Board members with a folder that tells what the essence of HOSTS is all about. HOSTS is a prescriptive program using assessment tools and are able to formulate a prescription of each individual student. In the prescription you will find items available in our own school district to increase learning potential, and also HOSTS gift box specifically for your school district to target what is needed to help our students the best.

Mr. Graham presented a sample elementary student folder consisting of the prescription. Mentors will get specific lesson plans to learn where exactly the student needs to be and how to get there. The folder is divided into three parts, one to emphasize vocabulary, literature, and objective reinforcement which critically attacks the weaknesses of the student. It is important and works because of the basis of research and formulation of the program. There are also many other items incorporated into the program to make it even stronger. It is the most widely used, most effective comprehensive structured mentoring program in the United States. They have enlisted the help of over 400,000 mentors nationwide. On a human note, there is no better way to get a student to learn and feel good about themselves than to have an adult there with them on a consistent basis, which builds their self esteem beyond all imagination.

Mr. Hess and Mr. Graham asked the Board to seriously consider using HOSTS to help students and have a partnership with them to help train the staff and mentors to be the most effective as they can be to work with our children. This program has existed since 1971 with approximately 50,000 schools involved, and is constantly growing. There has been marked improvement of increased test scores and has made a significant difference in schools who are on academic warning lists.

Ms. Dothard asked for an overview of the program such as bulleted items on what the program is all about. Ms. Wilkinson stated that she will provide the information to Board members.

Dr. Dawn Snyder presented the 2002-2003 teaching schedule. She reviewed the following facts about the 5-5 schedule:

• Developed by the Rock Island High School Leadership Team
• Presented to the staff
• Meets the negotiated contract parameters (5 and 5 teaching assignment)
• 50 minute periods (8:00 Ã 3:15 daily schedule)
• Adds an advisory component

• Plan new course offerings
• Plan strategies to improve teaching
• Research new programs

Dr. Markward stated that we­re not just moving to this schedule since it­s something we have done in the past. In addition to the reasons listed, it is intended to increase student achievement. Some problems were magnified with the 5-6 schedule. We expect to see in increase in opportunities for students. We have lacked advisors for extracurricular activities in the past. This is a more teacher-friendly schedule that may give teachers opportunity to participate in the other activities, and could increase teacher attendance.

Dr. Snyder publicly thanked Mr. Brunsvold stating, "On behalf of all of the students at Rock Island High School who will be able to enjoy the fitness center, I personally thank you for this contribution."

Dr. Markward and Mr. Oberhaus made a presentation to illustrate the potential budget adjustments to balance the 2002-2003 projected deficit. Mr. Oberhaus provided an overview of the budget on revenues and expenditures, and what has brought us to this point. Dr. Markward has confidence in what we do due to Mr. Oberhaus­ experience and expertise.

Dr. Markward explained the process of coming up with ideas on areas to cut from the budget and put together a recommended budget list. The plan is to take $2 million out of the budget by making cuts and using 1.5 million dollars of the accumulated surplus in the education fund.

Ms. Gay stated that it is Board policy for the administration to present a balanced budget.

Ms. Dothard complimented Mr. Oberhaus and Dr. Markward for their presentation. They have done an excellent job of presenting where we were, where we­re at and where we­re heading. We also are thankful to have a comptroller who is fiscally responsible. She appreciates Mr. Oberhaus taking the time to give a presentation that the audience understands as well.

Phillip Dennis, 1113 Ã 45^th Street, Rock Island, Illinois, is the President of the Keystone Neighborhood program. When he heard of potential cuts, he immediately thought of Longfellow Elementary School since it is the smallest in size. He felt it is so important to the neighborhood that they need to support that institution. They are not trying to say their school is better, but feel closing the school is the very last resort. A neighborhood school is the glue that holds a community together. It is a place to meet their neighbors and a place full of activity. Over the last seven years they have worked closely with Longfel-low, winning a SNAC award and installing playground equipment. Longfellow is a model of how a neighborhood can help a neighborhood school. It is also a great resource for Augustana college for student teaching and student observation. Most importantly, boarding up a school will lower property values. Strong schools make strong neighborhoods which build a stronger city. They realize that cutting the budget is a difficult job but neighborhood schools are the keystone to our city.

Deb Hayes à 1147 à 44^th Street, Rock Island, Illinois stated she is here to be proactive. When hearing an elementary school would be closed, she naturally thought of their school, Longfellow. She presented a petition with over 360 names of parents, neighbors, and members of the community who feel neighbor-hood schools are worth saving. As a parent, a neighborhood school is where she­s always welcome, agree to disagree, and know they are listening to her. Longfellow has a special group of teachers, and are part of the Longfellow family forever. Teachers have done so much for their students. As an example, a student moved out of area, came back for a visit, and teachers took him out to lunch. This student is still part of their Longfellow family. Another example was when a student lost their mother, teachers rallied around the family, all on their own time, so that family could have a nice Christmas. They attend school events after their students are in junior high. They really are a great staff with a lot of people who care about their children. Ms. Hayes asked the Board to consider everything but don­t sacrifice their Longfellow family.

Alicia Gomez à 3212 Ninth Avenue, Rock Island, Illinois stated that Longfellow is an important part of the Hispanic community. Longfellow provides extra services that they need. This year they achieved an ESL instructor who helped the children throughout the school day. This was a major accomplishment, but if the school closed it would be a major setback for all of their children, especially for those with special needs. She stated that she is only one voice but many feel the same way.

Maricela G. Guzman à 538 à 31^st Street, Rock Island, Illinois, is a mother of five children who have attended Longfellow. She has two currently, but has been a part of the school for 15 years. She speaks on behalf of many Spanish speaking citizens who appreciates Longfellow for adjusting to the migration of Hispanics to their community. She is proud to say the staff has continually included families with parent translators at conferences and focusing on their culture. Parent involvement has changed since this awareness. They still have a long way to go, but one of Longfellow­s great attributes to the community is their awareness of special needs and working to meet them.

Dolores Guzman à 538 à 31^st Street, Rock Island, Illinois, is a sixth grade student at Longfellow and president of the Student Council. Longfellow is a great school and closing it will effect the entire school district. The Longfellow staff sets a good example of now and in the future to do their best to help our community. Student Council not only plans events but goes to many places in the district to do com-munity work, donate eyeglasses to Lions Club, and sends greeting cards to military. They also participate in Adopt a Highway where students get permission to pick up garbage in the fall and spring, which keeps our world safe from pollution. They made tree beds on Make a Difference Day at Longfellow. Ms. Guzman stated that we can all make a difference.

Larry Burge à 3703 à 12^th Avenue, Rock Island, Illinois, asked the district not to close Longfellow Elementary School. Most of his reasons are selfish, but he bought a home over two years ago because of location and his kids being able to go to Longfellow. The neighborhood played a big part on where he would reside. The class sizes are lower, and he­s happy about that because he has seen improvements in two of his daughters. Hopefully he will have three daughters at Longfellow next year. Anything to sacri-fice quality education can­t be a good choice and not an acceptable one.

Mr. Clark congratulated the RIEA­s approach and stated that when we all work together for the benefit of kids, good things will happen. It has become obvious the priority of the reductions, and personally doesn­t believe any school will close next year. The district has put together a building utilization committee for the most efficient way to utilize our resources. There are so many options available, and closing a school is only one.

We as a board will be asking to find out more information behind these recommendations, which will go on intensely over the next couple of weeks. Their first decision is based on the level of the deficit that we can live with next year. How much of our surplus are we willing to use? Some reductions need to be made. Fortunately, we now have a $13 million surplus to help us work through this and we­ll find ourselves in a better position than many other districts around the state.

Mr. Gremanis questioned the reduction of permanent subs. Dr. Markward stated that they have done a great job for us, but started when subs were difficult to find. We now have a larger pool of subs and is not as critical of a factor. If we find ourselves in the same position of sub shortage then we will likely bring back the permanent subs.

Ms. Dothard questioned the mentoring and MTIP coordinators, if they were cut how would we compensate for their services? Dr. Markward stated that both programs would be diminished to a great degree but may not disappear. We­re unique with the MTIP program, not only effective in the past but there are some things we can do to increase the value of those programs. We don­t have anything presently that would work in their place. Ann Wilkinson has been very busy building the mentoring program, and HOSTS would be an additional responsibility for her.

Ms. Gay thanked the Board and members of the audience for their support. A copy of the budget presentation is kept on file with the official minutes at the Administration Center.

It was recommended that the Board of Education acknowledge the donation of computer equipment for Longfellow Elementary School from Ann Balderson.

It was recommended that the Board of Education approve the dismissal of Employee No. 2-1-0304.

Adjourn

There being no further business, the meeting adjourned at 9:02 p.m.