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6/11/2008

Minutes
Meeting Type:
Board of Education Meeting
Location:
New Terryville High School Library
Date:
6/11/2008 7:00:00 PM

Plymouth Board of Education

Regular Meeting

Wednesday, June 11, 2008

New Terryville High School Library

MINUTES

Present: Board: Patrick Perugino, Jennifer Zalaski, Martin Wetzel, Michelle Spencer, Lenny Morgan, Karen Kulesa and Raymond Engle Excused Absence: Daniel Gentile and Roxanne Perugino Administrators: Dr. Distasio, Superintendent, Carol Doiron, Director of Pupil Personnel and Special Education, Peter Lovely, Director of Curriculum and Instruction, Gerry Perusse, Business Manager and Keith Rafaniello, Director of Technology

1. CALL TO ORDER AND PLEDGE TO THE FLAG Mr. Engle called the meeting to order at 7 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 Martin Wetzel, motion passed unanimously.

 3. APPROVAL OF MINUTES

MOTION: To approve the minutes of the regular meeting of May 14, 2008. Motion Patrick Perugino, seconded Martin Wetzel motion passed unanimously.

4. PRESENTATIONS

 Mr. Lovely presented Mr. Robert Nave, this year’s Teacher of the Year to the Board Members. 

Dr. Distasio and Mr. Engle presented Merissa Heslin and Robert Lutters, the two senior Board of Education student representatives, with a gift for their participation on the Board.

Plymouth Board of Education Page 2 June 11, 2008

Dr. Distasio welcomed next year’s student representatives: Seniors, Aubrey McCarthy and Alexis Cordone and Junior, Elyse Santorso. Mr. Perusse, Business Manager, Mrs. Noyce, District Manager of Food Services and Mr. Michael Allen, Director of Food Services for Education Connection reviewed the Plymouth School Lunch Program over the past school year with Board Members.

5. PUBLIC COMMENTS REGARDING AGENDA ITEMS

None

6.. COMMUNICATIONS

None

7. OLD BUSINESS

A. Policy 1330

Dr. Distasio explained that Policy 1330 concerns the use of school facilities and grounds for organizations or groups within and outside of the school system. Policy 1330 provides regulations for use of the buildings and grounds as well as cost of the rental. Dr. Distasio explained this was the third reading of this particular policy. He indicated the Policy Subcommittee met on Wednesday, June 4, 2008 to finalize the recommended policy. There being no further discussion, the following motion was made:

MOTION: To approve the revisions to Policy 1330 as recommended and said revisions to take effect July 1, 2008. Motion Patrick Perugino, seconded Lenny Morgan motion passed unanimously. At this time, the Chair requested a roll call: Patrick Perugino, Jennifer Zalaski, Karen Kulesa, Lenny Morgan, Michelle Spencer and Martin Wetzel all voted in favor of the motion.

8. NEW BUSINESS 

A. Appointment MOTION: To appoint Laura Gagnon to the position of Grade 8 Science Teacher at Eli Terry Jr. Middle School effective July 1, 2008. Motion Patrick Perugino, seconded Lenny Morgan motion passed unanimously.

MOTION: To appoint Kimberly Privitera to the position of Language Arts Teacher at Eli Terry Jr. Middle School effective July 1, 2008. Motion Martin Wetzel seconded Patrick Perugino motion passed unanimously.

Plymouth Board of Education Page 3 June 11, 2008

 

MOTION: To appoint and welcome back Kathy Pisconski to the position of Grade 1 Teacher at Harry S. Fisher Elementary School, effective July 1, 2008. Motion Martin Wetzel, seconded Patrick Perugino motion passed unanimously. MOTION: To appoint Kathleen Trotochaud, to the position of Grade 6 Science Teacher at Eli Terry Jr. Middle School, effective July 1, 2008. Motion Patrick Perugino, seconded Michelle Spencer motion passed unanimously. MOTION: To appoint Jared Fortin to the position of night custodian at Terryville High School effective June 12, 2008. Motion Patrick Perugino, seconded Lenny Morgan motion passed unanimously. MOTION: To appoint Peter A. Lovely to the position of District Administrator In Charge for the Plymouth Public School System effective July 1, 2008. Motion Martin Wetzel, seconded Lenny Morgan motion passed unanimously. MOTION: To appointment Richard Trudeau to the position of Director of Technology for the Plymouth Public School System effective August 1, 2008. Motion Patrick Perugino, seconded Karen Kulesa motion passed unanimously. At this time, the Chair requested a roll call: Patrick Perugino, Jennifer Zalaski, Karen Kulesa, Lenny Morgan, Michelle Spencer and Martin Wetzel all voted in favor of the motion.

B. Resignation Dr. Distasio accepted the resignation of Keith Rafaniello, Director of Technology effective July 1, 2008.

 C. Authorization to Participate in the National School Lunch Program

 

MOTION: To approve the authorization of the administration to participate in the National School Lunch Program for the 2008-2009 school. Motion Patrick Perugino, seconded Lenny Morgan motion passed unanimously.

D. End of the Year Transfer of Funds

MOTION: To authorize the Superintendent of Schools to make the necessary transfers and expenditures to close the books as of June 30, 2008, and to expend all appropriate funds for the fiscal year 2007 – 2008. Motion Martin Wetzel, seconded Lenny Morgan motion passed unanimously.

Plymouth Board of Education Page 4 June 11, 2008

E. Authorization to Hire

MOTION: To authorize the Superintendent of Schools to hire personnel, except administrators, during the months of July and August in conjunction with the Personnel Subcommittee Chair. Motion Patrick Perugino, seconded Lenny Morgan motion passed unanimously.

9. BOARD MEMBER/COMMITTEE REPORTS

A. Curriculum – Mrs. Kulesa, Chair

The Curriculum Subcommittee met on June 4, 2008. The following items were addressed: (1) NEASC (New England Association of Schools & Colleges – subcommittee members received a draft copy of the NEASC visiting committee schedule. The visiting committee will spend 4 days reviewing Terryville High School for accreditation. The subcommittee discussed the agenda and specific days and times when Board Members should be in attendance.; (2) Curriculum Development – Over the summer months extensive curriculum review will be performed at all levels. Work will be based on the Connecticut State Department of Education’s Scientific Research-Based Intervention guidelines for assessment and support services.; (3) Summer School – Registration forms were distributed to students at the middle and high schools for credit recovery summer courses. Information has been sent to various educational institutions in the surrounding towns, technical and private schools, inviting their students to our summer school program.; and (4) Other – The subcommittee approved the purchase of a new Spanish textbook for the middle and high schools. A motion will be brought before the full Board at the June 11, 2008 meeting for approval.

MOTION: To approve the purchase of a new Spanish 1,2,3, and 4 textbook for the middle and high schools, “Realidates”, Publisher, “Prentice Hall”, and copyright date, 2008. Motion Patrick Perugino, seconded Lenny Morgan motion passed unanimously.

B. Facilities – Mr. Perugino, Chair

Mr. Perugino reported the Board has been informed that all projects are on schedule. Work on Harry S. Fisher Middle School is scheduled to begin after students are out of school. The renovated Terryville High School is scheduled to open on time. The biggest expense is the asbestos abatement.

Mr. Engle reported that he attended the Planning & Zoning Meeting two weeks ago. A discussion took place as to what was and what was not done. Anyone interested in what occurred at this meeting should obtain a copy of the minutes.

Plymouth Board of Education Page 5 June 11, 2008

C. Finance – Mr. Gentile, Chair

Mr. Engle reported the following in lie of Mr. Gentile’s absence:

The Finance Subcommittee met prior to the Board of Education Meeting and reviewed the accounts by facilities report for the month of May and moved that it be forwarded to the Town of Plymouth Board of Finance.

 The Finance Subcommittee met prior to the Board Meeting, reviewed the transfers and makes the following motion:

MOTION: To approve the transfers as discussed during the Finance Subcommittee meeting of June 11, 2008. Motion Martin Wetzel, seconded Karen Kulesa, motion passed unanimously.

 MOTION: To adjust the cost of the school lunches as follows: (1) to increase the cost of lunches by 25 cents for all school s; (2) to increase the cost of milk by 10 cents for all schools ; and (3) to increase Ala cart up to 25 cents. Motion Martin Wetzel, seconded Patrick Perugino motion passed unanimously.

 D. Negotiations - Mr. Perugino Chair

The Negotiations Subcommittee met in Executive Session on June 4, 2008 to discuss Superintendent Contract Negotiations.

E. Personnel – Mrs. Perugino Chair

 In lieu of Mrs. Perugino’s absence, Mr. Engle reported all items were handled under new business. The Superintendent is authorized to hire personnel during the summer months (with the exception of Administrators) in conjunction with the Personnel Subcommittee Chair.

 F. Policy – Mrs. Zalaski, Chair

All items were addressed under old business

G. Safety & Transportation –

No Report

Plymouth Board of Education Page 6 June 11, 2008


H. Education Connection - Mrs. Kulesa

 No Report

 I. Student Representatives

 Merissa Heslin - (a) baseball team made it to the 2nd round; (b) softball team was in the semi-finals; (c) Sports Banquet – June 11th; (d) Class trip to Holiday Hill; (e) Scholarship Night – June 5th ; (f) Class Night for Seniors – June 12th; and lastly, yes they are still flocking.

 Merissa thanked the Board Members for allowing her the opportunity to serve on the Board as a student representative. When asked for her recommendations on how the Board could change she made the following suggestions: Since students do not know the duties or functions of the Board or its subcommittees, the Board may want to explore a way to inform students.

Robert Lutters – Excused absence

 Elyse Santorso – Excused absence

10. ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS/REQUESTS/INFORMATION

 Mrs. Doiron, Director of Pupil Personnel/District Administrator in Charge

Congratulations to Pete, Keith and Rich. It’s been a pleasure to serve on this Board. The Plymouth School District has great students.

Mr. Lovely – Director of Curriculum and Instruction

Middle School Program – Al classes will be held at Terryville High School, 33 North Harwinton Avenue Terryville CT 06786. All classes will be held Monday through Thursday, beginning June 30, 2008. The last week, classes will be held Monday through Wednesday, ending on July 30, 2008.

High School Program – All classes will be held at Terryville High School, 33 North Harwinton Avenue Terryville CT 06786. All classes will be held Monday through Thursday, beginning June 30, 2008. The last week, classes will be held Monday through Wednesday, ending on July 30, 2008.

 Plymouth Board of Education Page 7 June 11, 2008

The Connecticut Virtual High School is not free this year. The cost for one semester is $375 and the cost for a full year course is $750.00. Presently, there are three students registered.

 Mr. Rafaniello, Director of Technology

Thank you to the following individuals who have inspired him during his year in Plymouth: Dr. Distasio, Mrs. Aiudi, Mrs. Doiron, Mr. Perusse, and to the Board of Education Members for being so intense in wanting to improve education. Many thanks to Mrs. McBaine, Ms. Block, Mrs. Tracy, Ms. Luba, Ms. Matuszczak and Jeff Telke. A special thank you to Rich Trudeau who is the reason why Plymouth is so far advanced in technology.

Mr. Perusse, Business Manager

Congratulations to Keith and Rich. The oil tank at Prospect Street School was replaced. Good Bye, and thank you for a great 13 years in the district.

 Dr. Distasio, Superintendent

Dr. Distasio reported the following:

(1) The last day of school for all elementary and middle school students will be Monday, June 16, 2008; (2) Harry S. Fisher Middle School promotion ceremonies will be held on Monday, June 16, 2008 @ 10:30 a.m.; and (3) the last day of school for the high school will be Thursday, June 19, 2008 (4) Terryville High School graduation ceremonies will be held on Thursday, June 19, 2008@ 7 p.m.

The District is loosing four tremendous individuals: Mr. Keith Rafaniello, Director of Technology, Ms. Carol Doiron, Director of Pupil Personnel & Special Education, Mr. Gerry Perusse, Business Manager and Mr. Michael Michaud, Vice Principal at Terryville High School. On behalf of the Board, I would like to wish these individuals best wishes.

The Plymouth Board of Education is very proud of its students and their accomplishments during the school year. Congratulations to all students not only the graduates. Parents should be commended for the wonderful example they set for their children. Dr. Distasio thanked the PTA’s for their support and leadership and teachers, administrators and staff for their hard work with our students. Thank you to the administrators, teachers and students of Terryville High School for their flexibility over this past school year. The community should be very proud of its dedicated staff of professional educators. Dr. Distasio thanked Board Chair Ray Engle and the Board for all the work they put in throughout the year. Dr. Distasio recognized Mrs. Piskorski for all that she does throughout the year.

On behalf of the Plymouth Board of Education, Dr. Distasio wished everyone a restful, enjoyable and healthy summer vacation.

Plymouth Board of Education Page 8 June 11, 2008

11. PUBLIC COMMENTS REGARDING AGENDA/NON AGENDA ITEMS

None

12. BOARD LIAISONS TO SCHOOLS

 Mr. Perugino – Main Street/Prospect Street Schools

June 13 Grade 5 DARE Graduation

June 13 Grade 5 Picnic

June 13 Outdoor Movie @ Main Street School

PTA Officers for 2008 – 2009

President Erica Lumbard

Vice President Christine Pilbin

 Treasurer Sandy Ehmer

Secretary Wanda Alvarez

Mrs. Zalaski – Terryville High School

No Report

Mr. Wetzel– SEPTA (Special Education Parent Teacher Association)

The following items were discussed: (1) summer picnic and (2) possible fundraiser (bookcovers).

Mr. Engle – Plymouth Center School

No Report

Mr. Gentile – Harry S. Fisher Middle School

Excused Absence – No Report

Plymouth Board of Education Page 9 June 11, 2008

 13. FINAL BOARD COMMENTS 

Mr. Wetzel – working with Gerry and Carol has been great. Congratulations to Keith. Best Wishes to our graduating seniors and all of our retirees. Best Wishes for a Nice Summer.

Mr. Perugino – Mr. Perugino commented on an article that appeared in the May 17th issue of the Bristol Press under “sound off” which addressed the bad behavior in the middle school. Mr. Perugino indicated the issue was addressed by the Superintendent and the Board was made aware of the issue. The Board and Superintendent will be more than willing to address any individual who comes before them with a problem or concern. 

As to Mrs. Doiron, you’ve done a great job; Gerry you keep us out of problems (you’re like the handle on a shovel); Mike Michaud, thank you for taking such good care of our students; and Keith best of luck to you in your new endeavor.

 Mr. Perugino thanked the many individuals and volunteers for helping to make the mentor picnic a success. As always, the district is in the need of mentors. Please volunteer, it only takes up a half hour of your time.

 Mrs. Zalaski – To Gerry, Carol and Keith, you’ve left a smile on Plymouth’s heart. Thank you to all of our volunteers for all that you do for the district. A letter from a student who was in the SWAT Program was placed at each Board Member’s seat. Just to sum up the contents of the letter, this student is graduating and looking forward to attending college and this was all due to the SWAT Program.

Mr. Gentile – Excused Absence

 Mrs. Perugino – Excused Absence

Mrs. Kulesa - To all of our administrators, students and teachers , best wishes in your future endeavors. Hope everyone has a great summer.

Mr. Morgan – Good luck to all of our retirees, enjoy, retirement, it’s a wonderful thing.

 Plymouth Board of Education Page 10 June 11, 2008

 Mr. Engle – Thank you to Gerry and Carol. Keith, congratulations – we all move forward to grow. Rich congratulations. Congratulations to our student senior representatives. Welcome to our new staff. Volunteerism – please do so at the high school level. Parents get involved with your student and show them that you care.

 Mrs. Spencer - Congratulations to our graduating seniors. Gerry, Carol , Mike Michaud and all of our retirees. Congratulations to Rich. Best Wishes for a Great Summer.

14. EXECUTIVE SESSION

 Prior to the motion, Mr. Engle invited the following individuals into Executive Session: Mr. Perugino, Mrs. Zalaski, Mrs. Kulesa, Mr. Wetzel, Mrs. Spencer, Mr. Morgan and

 Dr. Distasio.

 MOTION: To adjourn into executive session at 8:07 p.m. for the purpose of contract negotiations/Superintendent & Board Evaluation. Motion Patrick Perugino, seconded Karen Kulesa motion passed unanimously.

MOTION: To call the meeting back into regular session at 9 p.m. Motion Patrick Perugino seconded Karen Kulesa motion passed unanimously.

15. DECISION AS A RESULT OF EXECUTIVE SESSION

MOTION: To approve the contract extension of the Superintendent of Schools with a 3.5% salary increase from July 1, 2008 – June 30, 2011. Motion Patrick Perugino seconded Martin Wetzel motion passed unanimously. At this time the chair asked for a roll call: Mr. Perugino, Mrs. Zalaski, Mrs. Spencer, Mr. Morgan, Mrs. Spencer and

 Mr. Wetzel all voted in favor of the motion .

 16. NEXT REGULAR BOARD MEETING

 Mr. Engle stated the next Regular Board of Education Meeting will be held on the third Wednesday of August which is August 20, 2008 at 7 p.m., Terryville High School cafeteria.

 17. ADJOURNMENT

MOTION: To adjourn the meeting at 9:02 p.m. Motion Martin Wetzel seconded Patrick Perugino, motion passed unanimously. 

 

Respectfully submitted,

 ____________________

Patrick Perugino

Secretary

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