Plymouth Board of Education
Regular Meeting
Wednesday, November 8, 2006
Terryville High School Cafeteria
MINUTES
Present:
Board: Ray Engle, Dan Gentile, Patrick Perugino, Velma McConnell,
Jennifer Zalaski, Lisbeth Leonhardt, Lenny Morgan, Michelle Spencer and Martin Wetzel
Administrators: Dr. Distasio, Gerry Perusse, Keith Rafaniello, Carol Doiron and
Peter Lovely
1. CALL TO ORDER AND PLEDGE TO THE FLAG
Mr. Engle called the meeting to order at 7:01 p.m. The group joined in the Pledge to the Flag.
2. ADOPTION OF THE AGENDA
MOTION: To adopt the agenda as presented. Motion Patrick Perugino, seconded Lenny Morgan, motion passed unanimously.
MOTION: To amend the agenda to include Board Liaisons as item #12. Motion Patrick Perugino, seconded Velma McConnell, motion passed unanimously.
3. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
MOTION: To approve the minutes of the regular meeting of October 11, 2006. Motion Velma McConnell, seconded Patrick Perugino, motion passed unanimously.
MOTION: To approve the minutes of the special meeting of October 21, 2006.
Motion Patrick Perugino, seconded Dan Gentile, motion passed with Velma McConnell abstaining.
4. PRESENTATIONS
This month’s presentation was the introduction of the CAPSS Superintendent/Student Award Recipients. Dr. Distasio explained these students were selected for their academic prowness, school citizenship, and community service. He then introduced each principal who in turn introduced his/her students and read a short biography.
Plymouth Board of Education Page 2 November 8, 2006
Dr. Distasio indicated the students will receive their awards at the CAPSS Dinner on November 16, 2006 at the Cornucopia Restaurant in Torrington.
Congratulations to:
Main Street School Plymouth Center School
Savannah Morin Melanie Guerrero
Joshua Thompson Melissa Guerrero
Harry S. Fisher Middle School Terryville High School
Jessica Albino Kaitlin Palance
Kevin Littau Eric Dolecki
MOTION: To adjourn at 7:16 p.m. for a brief reception for our award winners.
Motion Patrick Perugino, seconded Lisbeth Leonhardt, motion passed unanimously.
MOTION: To return to regular session at 7:25 p.m. Motion Patrick Perugino, seconded Dan Gentile, motion passed unanimously.
5. PUBLIC COMMENTS REGARDING AGENDA ITEMS
None
6. COMMUNICATIONS
Dr. Distasio shared a letter he and Mr. Cerruto received from Arlene Wood from the Teddy Bear Organization thanking the teachers, staff and students for their donation to the Teddy Bear Project.
Dr. Distasio extended an invitation to Board Members to attend the 3rd Annual Installation Night of the Terryville High School Leo Club. The ceremony is to be held at Terryville High School on November 15th at 6:30 p.m.
7. OLD BUSINESS
A. Connecticut Municipal Consortium for Fiscal Responsibility
MOTION: To endorse the Connecticut Municipal Consortium for Fiscal Responsibility. Motion Velma McConnell, seconded Lenny Morgan motion passed unanimously.
Plymouth Board of Education Page 3 November 8, 2006
MOTION: To amend the Motion to include the Superintendent and multiple Board of Education Members as liaisons to any meetings. Motion Velma McConnell, seconded Martin Wetzel, motion passed unanimously.
B. Naming of the School Facilities
MOTION: To correct the name of the middle school upon completion of the renovation of the current high school in September of 2008 to “Eli Terry Jr. Middle School”.
Motion Patrick Perugino, seconded Lenny Morgan, motion passed unanimously.
8. NEW BUSINESS
A. Appointments
MOTION: To approve the appointment the following individuals as coaches at Terryville High School:
Paul Caribini Girls’ JV Basketball
Chris Lebel JV Wrestling
Motion Patrick Perugino, seconded Martin Wetzel, motion passed unanimously.
MOTION: To approve the appointment of the following individuals as coaches at Harry S. Fisher Middle School:
Joe Barbino Girls’ Basketball
Jerry Curtiss Boys’ Basketball
Motion: Patrick Perugino, seconded Velma McConnell, motion passed unanimously.
B. Approval of Plymouth Board of Education Meeting Dates for the 2007 Calendar Year.
MOTION: To approve the Plymouth Board of Education Meeting Dates for the 2007 Calendar Year. Motion Martin Wetzel, seconded Dan Gentile motion passed unanimously.
Plymouth Board of Education Page 4 November 8, 2006
C. Approval of Out-of-State Field Trip
MOTION: To approve the trip to Salem, Massachusetts for Grade 11 students at Terryville High School for November 15, 2006 as a part of the Language Arts Project. Motion Patrick Perugino, seconded Velma McConnell, motion passed unanimously.
MOTION: To approve the trip to the Bronx Zoo in New York for grade 6 students at Harry S. Fisher Middle School for June 6, 2007 to compliment an interdisciplinary study for this Grade 6 Team. Motion Velma McConnell, seconded Patrick Perugino motion passed unanimously.
MOTION: To approve the trip to Old Sturbridge Village in Sturbridge, Massachusetts for Grade 5 students at Plymouth Center School for May, 2007 as an extension of their studies of the New England Colonies. Motion Dan Gentile, seconded Martin Wetzel motion passed with Velma McConnell abstaining.
D. Notification of Resignations
Dr. Distasio accepted the resignations of the following individuals: Mrs. Janice Raboin, Cook/Manager at Harry S. Fisher Middle School for the purpose of retirement effective December 31, 2006; Ms. Theresa Motta, Assistant Cook at Prospect Street School effective October 27, 2006; and Mrs. Megan Lane, School-to-Career Assistant, effective December 22, 2006.
9. BOARD MEMBER/COMMITTEE REPORTS
A. Curriculum – Lisbeth Leonhardt Chair
The Curriculum Subcommittee met on November 1, 2006. Dr. Distasio gave a PowerPoint Presentation focusing on the District Improvement Plan. The presentation explained the key components of the District Mission Statement: intellectual/social development of ALL STUDENTS; partnership with family, school, & community; to provide an opportunity for high achievement & excellence; positive education experience; to develop life-long learners; atmosphere of responsibility, respect, tolerance, and multi-cultural awareness and a commitment to excellence. He also explained the District Beliefs which are to: follow along with the mission of the school district providing a basis for achievement of ALL STUDENTS, Importance of families and communication, Mutual Respect and Cooperation, Instruction is an ever Evolving Process, and a Commitment to Improving Teaching and Learning. The process resembles a basic pyramid: the Board of Education Goals (basis for the District Improvement Plan); District Improvement Plan (basis for the School Improvement Plan); School Improvement Plan (basis for Administrative and Teacher Goals); Administrator Goals; Teacher Goals; and finally Student Achievement.
Plymouth Board of Education Page 5 November 8, 2006
Each principal provided a brief presentation of their School Improvement Plan. This included (1) Foundation Data (Where they are now); (2) Goal/Objective (what are the desired outcomes or results; and (3) Action Plans (how do they anticipate on getting there and how do they go about achieving their goals).
At the conclusion of Mrs. Leonhardt’s report, Dr. Distasio thanked central office administrators, staff and principals for all of their hard work in gathering the information that went into these plans.
B. Facilities – Dan Gentile Chair
On Saturday, November 4th, work began on the roof at Prospect Street School.
On Saturday, October 31st, Dr. Distasio conducted a tour of the new high school building walking from the 1st floor to the third floor. Members of the Board of Education, Building Committee and the public were in attendance.
C. Finance – Dan Gentile, Chair
The Finance Sub-Committee met prior to the Board of Education Meeting. The October accounts by facilities report was reviewed and will be forwarded to the Town of Plymouth Board of Finance.
D. Negotiations – Velma McConnell, Chair
None
E. Personnel – Patrick Perugino, Chair
Mr. Perugino reported that the personnel sub-committee met with the Superintendent prior to the Board meeting and approved all of his recommendations.
F. Policy – Jennifer Zalaski, Chair
Policy Revision 4148(a) 4248 Employee Protection
Motion: To approve the identified revisions to Policy 4148(a) 4248 regarding employee protection to clarify the reasonable exercise of authority by employees of the Plymouth Board of Education. The revision also removes unnecessary language concerning the responsibility of the Board. Motion Velma McConnell, seconded Lenny Morgan, motion passed unanimously.
Plymouth Board of Education Page 6 November 8, 2006
Policy Revision 4111 Recruitment and Selection
MOTION: To approve the identified revision to Policy 4111 regarding Recruitment and Selection of Employees to specifically include a Plan for Minority Staff Recruitment. This revision is in accordance with Section 10-4a (3) and Section 10-220(a) of the Connecticut General Statutes. Motion Dan Gentile, seconded Velma McConnell, motion passed unanimously.
G. Safety & Transportation – Michelle Spencer, Chair
No Report
H. Education Connection - Velma McConnell
Mrs. McConnell reported on the following: (1) a program Education Connection offers for high, middle and elementary school students who cannot transition from either a psychiatric institution or incarceration into their home school. Unfortunately, we cannot make use of this program because of the travel distance. However, it is a beautiful program and is very nicely structured. (2) Proposed dues structure for 2008 which is based on a three tier level depending on your school’s population. For the year 2008, the cost to Plymouth will be $1,098.50 which is a decrease from the amount paid in 2007 which was $1,118.00. This will be voted on next month. If anyone would like more information, please contact Mrs. McConnell.; and (3) just a reminder, as a member of Education Connection, our district is able to use the facilities at Education Connection free of charge.
I. Student Representatives
Kaitlin Palance – November 13th, 15th & 16th , 2006 – sociology students will be taking a field trip to Osborn Prison; November 28th, 2006 the United Way Youth Board participated with the Bristol Pumpkin Festival; United Way Members participated in helping Special Olympics with qualifying for bowling; and the Future Business Leaders of America officers attended a Fall Leadership Conference on October 30th. The speaker was an individual who began a business at the age of eighteen.
Anna Plotnikova – Terryville High School Leo Club is hosting its Annual Toy Drive, boxes will be placed in the main office of each school; a Pet Drive will also take place; the Electrathon Team received first and second place in the Class 2 Division; The girls soccer team scored a win on November 7th and will be hosting a state game; and in the cross-country state meets – the boys placed 5th and the girls placed 4th.
Robert Lutters – SADD will be sponsoring a Semi Formal Dance on November 17th; Leo Club installation will take place on Wednesday, November 15th; and there will be a mix it up day at the high school sponsored by the sociology classes during lunch breaks. The purpose is for students to mingle and meet new people.
Plymouth Board of Education Page 7 November 8, 2006
10. ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS/REQUESTS/INFORMATION
Mrs. Doiron, Director of Pupil Personnel/District Administrator in Charge
No Report
Mr. Lovely – Director of Curriculum and Instruction
No Report
Mr. Rafaniello, Director of Technology
Thank you to the following individuals for participating in tonight’s broadcast:
From the Fisher News Network: David Block and Kyle Hotchkiss
From Terryville High School: Connor Raymond, David Magnano and Chris Casola
From Holy Cross: Scott Mamrosh
Mr. Rafaniello addressed the following: reported the audio portion of the Board Meeting has been improved for television; addressed the CAPT scores; four meeting have taken place since September 27th to put strategies in place to address the scores; and some ideas to motivate students i.e. rally; family involvement; football team; video; and peer mentors.
Dr. Distasio indicated that Parent Involvement was Goal #3 for the Board of Education.
Mr. Perusse, Business Manager
Mr. Perusse reported: work on the roof at Prospect Street School has begun; he met with the Capital Improvement Committee and two projects were submitted (1) energy efficient windows for Harry S. Fisher Middle School which was submitted last year at a cost of $1.5 million which will be about a 72% reimbursement from the State; (2) conditioning of the tennis courts at Prospect Street School. They are trying to enclose the new high school for the winter and where there are no windows, plastic will be installed and there will be heat in the building by mid November.
Plymouth Board of Education Page 8 November 8, 2006
Dr. Distasio, Superintendent
Dr. Distasio reported on the following
Terryville High School
Congratulations to Mr. Rostowsky and Mr. McDermott and the Electrathon Team Students on winning 1st and 2nd place at Lime Rock on Friday, October 20, 2006.
ALL SCHOOLS
Dr. Distasio acknowledged the work of Kevin Sulek, our School Resource Officer. Kevin has been involved in all of our schools, meeting with students in an effort to make our schools a safe and orderly environment. This has been a benefit to the community in helping to prevent and solve some criminal activity.
A Community Health & Safety Fair, hosted by the Local Prevention Council of the SAAC (Substance Action Abuse Council) was held at Terryville High School. Thanks to the VNA, we were able to offer flu shots. To any interested parties, the LPC (Local Prevention Council) will be holding a meeting on December 5th at 2:30 p.m. in the Library of Terryville High School. At this meeting, the Executive Director of the Substance Abuse Council will ask for input for a needs assessment which he is doing for all towns that this regional SAAC serves.
The new Strategic School Profiles have arrived. Profiles will be available in your child’s school office, at the Board of Education Offices or on line for interested parents.
There will be no school on Friday, November 10th in observance of Veteran’s Day. Thanksgiving break will take place from November 22 – 24th, 2006.
11. Public Comments Regarding Agenda or Non-Agenda Items
Sue Murawski – Town Liaison – 143 Schroback Road Plymouth CT – Mrs. Murawski thanked Board Members for endorsing the consortium. There will be Regional Meetings on Monday, November 27th at 7:30 p.m., 2nd Floor in the auditorium at the Torrington City Hall, 140 Main Street Torrington or Tuesday, November 28th at 7:30 p.m. at the Oxford Town Hall, 486 Oxford Road, RT 6 & 7 Oxford. Dr. Distasio asked Mrs. Murawski if she could e-mail the individual that schedules meeting times and dates and give that individual his e-mail address to notify him of upcoming meetings.
Plymouth Board of Education Page 9 November 8, 2006
12. Board Liaisons to Schools
Mr. Perugino – Main Street/Prospect Street Schools
November 14th – Kindergarten Field Trip to McDonald’s
PTA Meeting in Main Street School Library @ 6:30 p.m.
November 21st – Kindergarten Harvest Fest
Second Grade Field Trip to the Institute of American Indian Studies
Mrs. Zalaski – Plymouth Center School
No Report
Dr. Distasio - Harry S. Fisher Middle School
Students at Harry S. Fisher Middle School celebrated Red Ribbon Week and listened to guest speakers and signed pledge sheets to remain drug free. Eighth graders watched Trooper One, a helicopter used by the State Police, land on the sports field on October 27th.
Mr. Engle – Terryville High School
Mrs. Aiudi will be e-mailing meeting dates of the newly formed Parent Involvement Group.
Mr. Gentile – SEPTA – (Special Education Parent Teacher Association)
No Report
13. Final Board Comments
Mr. Perugino – On Saturday, November 4th on Channel 16, he saw Mr. Mike who presented a great Safety Program at Plymouth Center School and provided much information. Thank you to Chief Krasicky and Officer Sulek for their help of this program. Congratulations to the CAPSS Student Award recipients.
Plymouth Board of Education Page 10 November 8, 2006
Mr. Engle – Excellent Literacy Program presentation at Plymouth Center School; Congratulations to the staff and administrations on the District and School Improvement Plans, keep up the good work.
Mr. Gentile – Harry S. Fisher Middle School Chorus performance was excellent.
14. Next Regular Board Meeting
Mr. Engle stated that the next regular Board of Education Meeting will be held on December 13, 2006 at 7 p.m. at Terryville High School.
15. Adjournment
MOTION: To adjourn the meeting at 8:17 p.m. Motion Patrick Perugino, seconded Lenny Morgan motion passed unanimously.
Respectfully submitted,
____________________
Patrick Perugino
Secretary