01/09/2006

REGULAR MEETING
BERLIN BOARD OF EDUCATION
BERLIN PUBLIC SCHOOLS
MONDAY, JANUARY 9, 2006
7:00 P.M. – BOARD OF EDUCATION MEETING ROOM
TOWN HALL COMPLEX

AGENDA

I.    CALL TO ORDER

II.    BOARD AND ADMINISTRATIVE COMMUNICATIONS

III.    STUDENT PRESENTATION – MCGEE MIDDLE SCHOOL

IV.    AUDIENCE OF CITIZENS

V.    CONSENT AGENDA

VI.    PERSONNEL

VII.        INFORMATION AND REPORTS

VIII.        RECOMMENDED ACTION

01/23/2006

REGULAR MEETING
BERLIN BOARD OF EDUCATION
BERLIN PUBLIC SCHOOLS
MONDAY, JANUARY 23, 2006
7:00 P.M. – BOARD OF EDUCATION MEETING ROOM
TOWN HALL COMPLEX

AGENDA

I. CALL TO ORDER

Pledge of Allegiance - Moment of Silence

II. BOARD AND ADMINISTRATIVE COMMUNICATIONS

III. AUDIENCE OF CITIZENS

IV. CONSENT AGENDA

A. Approval of Minutes

1. Regular Meeting of January 9, 2006

B. Out-of-State Field Trip Requests – McGee Middle School

V. RECOMMENDED ACTION

A. Policy Revisions – Second Reading and Recommended Adoption

1. Policy BCE – Permanent Committees

2. Policy BCEA – Leadership, Accountability and Measurement Committee

3. Policy BCEB – Communications and Alignment Committee

4. Policy BCEC – Resources and Capacity-Building Committee

VI. 2006-2007 PROPOSED BUDGET PRESENTATION

A. Secondary Principals’ Budget Presentation

VII. EXECUTIVE SESSION

The Board may enter into executive session for the purpose of discussing an administrator’s

retirement plans.

VIII. ADJOURNMENT

01/26/2006 (Tentative)

TENTATIVE – WEATHER MAKE-UP DATE IF NEEDED*

SPECIAL MEETING
BERLIN BOARD OF EDUCATION
BERLIN PUBLIC SCHOOLS
TUESDAY, JANUARY 24, 2006
7:00 P.M. – BOARD OF EDUCATION MEETING ROOM
TOWN HALL COMPLEX

AGENDA

I. CALL TO ORDER

II. BUDGET PRESENTATIONS

II. ADJOURNMENT

• - In the event one of the special meetings needs to be postponed due to inclement weather, this

meeting is scheduled in place of it and will be clarified at that time.

 

SPECIAL MEETING
BERLIN BOARD OF EDUCATION
BERLIN PUBLIC SCHOOLS
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 25, 2006
7:00 P.M. – BOARD OF EDUCATION MEETING ROOM
TOWN HALL COMPLEX

AGENDA

I. CALL TO ORDER

II. BUDGET PRESENTATIONS

A. Special Education Budget

B. District-wide Non-instructional Programs

C. Board of Education Overall Review

III. ADJOURNMENT

 

TENTATIVE – WEATHER MAKE-UP DATE IF NEEDED*

SPECIAL MEETING
BERLIN BOARD OF EDUCATION
BERLIN PUBLIC SCHOOLS
THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 2006
7:00 P.M. – BOARD OF EDUCATION MEETING ROOM
TOWN HALL COMPLEX

AGENDA

I. CALL TO ORDER

II. BUDGET PRESENTATIONS

III. ADJOURNMENT

• - In the event one of the special meetings needs to be postponed due to inclement weather, this

meeting is scheduled in place of it and will be clarified at that time.

02/27/2006

REGULAR MEETING

BERLIN BOARD OF EDUCATION

BERLIN PUBLIC SCHOOLS

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2006

7:00 P.M. – BOARD OF EDUCATION MEETING ROOM

TOWN HALL COMPLEX

 

 

 

AGENDA

 

 

 

I. CALL TO ORDER

Pledge of Allegiance - Moment of Silence

 

II. BOARD AND ADMINISTRATIVE COMMUNICATIONS

III. AUDIENCE OF CITIZENS

IV. CONSENT AGENDA

A. Approval of Minutes

1. Regular Meeting of February 13, 2006

V. PERSONNEL

A. Retirement

 

VI. INFORMATION AND REPORTS

A. Berlin Education Council

 

VII. RECOMMENDED ACTION

A. Program of Studies – Berlin High School

B. Budget Request to Town – Divider Door System – Griswold and Willard Elementary Schools

VIII. ADJOURNMENT

 

03/13/2006

REGULAR MEETING

BERLIN BOARD OF EDUCATION

BERLIN PUBLIC SCHOOLS

MONDAY, MARCH 13, 2006

7:00 P.M. – MARY E. GRISWOLD SCHOOL,

133 HEATHER LANE

KENSINGTON, CT

 

AGENDA

 

I. CALL TO ORDER

Pledge of Allegiance - Moment of Silence

 

II. BOARD AND ADMINISTRATIVE COMMUNICATIONS

III. STUDENT PRESENTATION – GRISWOLD SCHOOL

IV. AUDIENCE OF CITIZENS

V. CONSENT AGENDA

A. Approval of Minutes

1. Regular Meeting of February 27, 2006

B. Payment of Bills – Period ending February 28, 2006

 

VI. PERSONNEL

A. Resignations

VII. INFORMATION AND REPORTS

A. Activity Fund Reports

1. Berlin High School Enterprise Fund – Period ending January 31, 2006

2. Berlin Public Schools Activity Fund – Period ending January 31, 2006

3. Cafeteria Fund – Period ending January 31, 2006

B. NEASC Mission Statement

C. Vision for Change

D. Project CHOICE Participation for 2006-2007

 

VIII. RECOMMENDED ACTION

A. Revision to School Calendar 2006-2007

B. Budget Request to Town – School Vans

IX. ADJOURNMENT

 

04/24/2006

REGULAR MEETING
BERLIN BOARD OF EDUCATION
BERLIN PUBLIC SCHOOLS
MONDAY, APRIL 24, 2006
7:00 P.M. – BOARD OF EDUCATION MEETING ROOM
TOWN HALL COMPLEX

AGENDA

I. CALL TO ORDER

II. BOARD AND ADMINISTRATIVE COMMUNICATIONS

III. STUDENT PRESENTATION – WILLARD SCHOOL

IV. AUDIENCE OF CITIZENS

V. CONSENT AGENDA
VI. PERSONNEL

VII. INFORMATION AND REPORTS

VIII. RECOMMENDED ACTION

IX. ADJOURNMENT

05/08/2006

REGULAR MEETING

BERLIN BOARD OF EDUCATION

BERLIN PUBLIC SCHOOLS

MONDAY, MAY 8, 2006

7:00 P.M. – BOARD OF EDUCATION MEETING ROOM

TOWN HALL COMPLEX

AGENDA

1. CALL TO ORDER

Pledge of Allegiance - Moment of Silence

1. BOARD AND ADMINISTRATIVE COMMUNICATIONS

1. STUDENT PRESENTATION – MCGEE MIDDLE SCHOOL

1. AUDIENCE OF CITIZENS

1. CONSENT AGENDA

1. Approval of Minutes

1. Regular Meeting of April 24, 2006

2. Special Meeting of April 11, 2006

B. Payment of Bills – Period ending April 30, 2006

1. PERSONNEL

1. Resignation

2. Request for Childrearing Leave

1. INFORMATION AND REPORTS

1. Status of the Board of Education’s Adopted Budget for 2006-07

2. PowerPoint Presentation on Griswold School’s Partnership with New Britain High School

3. English Language Learners (ELL) Report

 

1. RECOMMENDED ACTION

1. Beginning Educator Support Team (BEST) Candidates

1. EXECUTIVE SESSION

1. Discussion of Documents Relating to Negotiations with Aides

2. Discussion Regarding a Board Member’s Performance of Board Responsibilities

1. ADJOURNMENT

05/22/2006

REGULAR MEETING
BERLIN BOARD OF EDUCATION
BERLIN PUBLIC SCHOOLS
MONDAY, MAY 22, 2006
7:00 P.M. – BOARD OF EDUCATION MEETING ROOM
TOWN HALL COMPLEX

AGENDA

I.CALL TO ORDER

II.BOARD AND ADMINISTRATIVE COMMUNICATIONS

III.AUDIENCE OF CITIZENS

IV.CONSENT AGENDA

V.PERSONNEL

VI.INFORMATION AND REPORTS

VII.RECOMMENDED ACTION

VIII.EXECUTIVE SESSION

IX.ADJOURNMENT

11/27/2006

ANNUAL MEETING
BERLIN BOARD OF EDUCATION
BERLIN PUBLIC SCHOOLS
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 27, 2006
7:00 P.M. – ROBERT E. LUKENS AUDITORIUM
McGEE MIDDLE SCHOOL, 899 NORTON ROAD, BERLIN, CT

AGENDA 

CONGRATULATIONS TO RE-ELECTED THREE-YEAR TERM BOARD MEMBERS

GARY BROCHU, CHRISTOPHER PUZIO, AND JOHN RICHARDS.

 

I.                   CALL TO ORDER

A.                 Pledge of Allegiance and Moment of Silence

 

II.                BOARD AND ADMINISTRATIVE COMMUNICATIONS

 

III.             AWARDS & PRESENTATIONS IN CONJUNCTION WITH AMERICAN EDUCATION WEEK

A.                 Superintendent’s CAPSS (Connecticut Association of Public School Superintendents) Student Awards

B.                 Special Recognition – Lindsey Fortunato – Selected for State Student Advisory Council on Education

C.                 Special Recognition – McGee Middle School Principal Brian Benigni – William Cieslukowski Outstanding First-Year Principal Award Sponsored by CAS

D.                 Berlin Board of Education – CABE Leadership Award

E.                  Introduction of 2006-2007 Building Teachers of the Year and the District Teacher of the Year

F.                  Support Staff Recognition Awards

G.                  “Friend of Berlin Schools” Awards

 

IV.              STUDENT PRESENTATION – McGEE MIDDLE SCHOOL

 

 

 

V.                 REORGANIZATION

A.                 Annual Election of Officers

1.      President

2.      Secretary

B.                 MOTIONS for Annual Schedule of Meetings and Fiscal Management

C.                 Appointment of Board Legal Counsel for 2006-2007

 

VI.              AUDIENCE OF CITIZENS

 

VII.           CONSENT AGENDA

A.                 Approval of Minutes

1.      Regular Meeting of October 23, 2006

2.      Special Meeting of November 2, 2006

B.                 Payment of Bills – Period ending October 31, 2006

C.                 Out-of-State Field Trip Request – Willard School – Nature’s Classroom, 1/22-25/07

 

 

AGENDA – ANNUAL MEETING – NOVEMBER 27, 2006 – CONTINUED

 

 

VIII.        INFORMATION AND REPORTS

A.                 Activity Fund Reports

1.      Berlin High School Enterprise Fund – Period ending Oct. 31, 2006

2.      Berlin Public Schools Activity Fund – Period ending Oct. 31, 2006

3.      Cafeteria Fund – Period ending Oct. 31, 2006

B.                 Superintendent’s Report on Strategic School Profiles for 2005-2006

C.                 Discussion of Options Contained in the NESDEC Long-Range School Facilities Planning Report

D.                 Committee Reports

 

IX.              RECOMMENDED ACTION

A.        Anticipated Appointment – Willard School Assistant Principal

 

X.                 ADJOURNMENT

 

12/11/2006

2007-01-26 - Special Meeting

REGULAR MEETING
BERLIN BOARD OF EDUCATION
BERLIN PUBLIC SCHOOLS
MONDAY, MARCH 26, 2007
7:00 P.M. – EMMA HART WILLARD ELEMENTARY SCHOOL CAFETERIA
1088 NORTON ROAD, BERLIN, CT

AGENDA


I. CALL TO ORDER
Pledge of Allegiance - Moment of Silence

II. STUDENT PRESENTATION – WILLARD SCHOOL

III. BOARD AND ADMINISTRATIVE COMMUNICATIONS

IV. AUDIENCE OF CITIZENS

V. PERSONNEL
A. Non-renewal of Contracts for Non-tenured Teachers
B. Retirement
C. Anticipated Appointment of Hubbard School Principal

VI. CONSENT AGENDA
A. Approval of Minutes
1. Regular Meeting of March 12, 2007
B. Resignations
C. Overnight Field Trip Requests – Berlin High School – Camp Woodstock
1. Junior/Senior Peer Leadership Training, Sept. 15-16, 2007
2. Advanced Peer Leadership Training, March 14-16, 2008
3. Peer Leadership Training, May 9-11, 2008
4. “Great Escape” Training, June 5-6, 2008

VII. INFORMATION AND REPORTS
A. Status of the Board of Education’s Adopted Budget for 2007-08
B. Project CHOICE Participation for 2007-2008
C. Administrative Presentation on Rigor in the Classroom
D. Re-Posting of K-12 Literacy Coordinator Position

VIII. ADJOURNMENT

2007-01-22 - Regular Meeting

2007-01-23 TENTATIVE – WEATHER MAKE-UP DATE IF NEEDED*

2007-01-24 - Special Meeting

2007-01-25 TENTATIVE – WEATHER MAKE-UP DATE IF NEEDED*

SPECIAL MEETING - JANUARY 25, 2007

REGULAR MEETING - FEBRUARY 12, 2007

REGULAR MEETING - APRIL 23, 2007

REGULAR MEETING
BERLIN BOARD OF EDUCATION
BERLIN PUBLIC SCHOOLS
MONDAY, APRIL 23, 2007
7:00 P.M. – RICHARD D. HUBBARD ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
139 GROVE STREET, EAST BERLIN, CT

AGENDA

I.CALL TO ORDER
Pledge of Allegiance - Moment of Silence

II.STUDENT PRESENTATION – HUBBARD SCHOOL

III.BOARD AND ADMINISTRATIVE COMMUNICATIONS

IV.AUDIENCE OF CITIZENS

V.CONSENT AGENDA
A.Approval of Minutes
1. Regular Meeting of April 9, 2007
B. Resignation

VI.INFORMATION AND REPORTS
A.Status of the Board of Education’s Adopted Budget for 2007-08
B.Life Threatening Food Allergies Plan

VII.EXECUTIVE SESSION
A.Discuss Materials Relative to Negotiations

VIII.ADJOURNMENT (to Committee Meetings)

REGULAR MEETING - MAY 14, 2007

REGULAR MEETING
BERLIN BOARD OF EDUCATION
BERLIN PUBLIC SCHOOLS
MONDAY, MAY 14, 2007
7:00 P.M. – BOARD OF EDUCATION MEETING ROOM
TOWN HALL COMPLEX

AGENDA

I.CALL TO ORDER
Pledge of Allegiance - Moment of Silence

II.BOARD AND ADMINISTRATIVE COMMUNICATIONS

III.SPECIAL PRESENTATION – TEACHER RECRUITMENT MATERIALS

IV.AUDIENCE OF CITIZENS

V.CONSENT AGENDA
A.Approval of Minutes
1. Regular Meeting of April 23, 2007
B.Payment of Bills – Period ending April 30, 2007
C.Transfers
D.Requests for Leaves of Absence
E.Action Regarding Non-Renewal Notice

VI.INFORMATION AND REPORTS
A.Activity Fund Reports
1.Berlin High School Enterprise Fund – Period ending March 31, 2007
2.Berlin Public Schools Activity Fund – Period ending March 31 , 2007
3.Cafeteria Fund – Period ending March 31, 2007
B.McGee Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP)
C.English Language Learners (ELL) Report
D.Language Arts Committee Report
E.Status of Educational Specifications for the New High School

VII.RECOMMENDED ACTION
A.Last Student Day for 2006-2007 School Year
B.Beginning Educator Support Team (BEST) Mentor Candidates
C.Setting of the 2007-2008 Board of Education Operating Budget

VIII.EXECUTIVE SESSION
A.Discuss Materials Relative to Negotiations

IX.ADJOURNMENT

REGULAR MEETING - MAY 29, 2007

REGULAR MEETING
BERLIN BOARD OF EDUCATION
BERLIN PUBLIC SCHOOLS
TUESDAY, MAY 29, 2007
7:00 P.M. – BOARD OF EDUCATION MEETING ROOM
TOWN HALL COMPLEX


AGENDA


I. CALL TO ORDER
Pledge of Allegiance - Moment of Silence

II. BOARD AND ADMINISTRATIVE COMMUNICATIONS

III. STUDENT PRESENTATION – MCGEE MIDDLE SCHOOL

IV. AUDIENCE OF CITIZENS

V. PERSONNEL
A. Announcement – Teacher of the Year

VI. CONSENT AGENDA
A. Approval of Minutes
1. Regular Meeting of May 14, 2007
2. Special Meeting of May 15, 2007
B. Resignations
C. Overnight Field Trip Request – McGee Middle School
D. Transfers

VII. INFORMATION AND REPORTS
A. Professional Growth & Evaluation Committee Update
B. Status of Educational Specifications for the New High School

VIII. RECOMMENDED ACTION
A. Anticipated Appointment – K-12 Literacy Coordinator
B. High Deductible/HSA Insurance Plan

IX. EXECUTIVE SESSION
A New Britain Transportation Contract
B. Discuss Materials Relative to Negotiations
C. Evaluation of the Superintendent of Schools

X. ADJOURNMENT

REGULAR MEETING - JULY 11, 2007

REGULAR MEETING - JUNE 25, 2007

REGULAR MEETING - JULY 16, 2007

REGULAR MEETING - AUGUST 20, 2007

REGULAR MEETING - SEPTEMBER 10, 2007

REGULAR MEETING - SEPTEMBER 24, 2007

REGULAR MEETING - MONDAY, OCTOBER 22, 2007

REGULAR MEETING - TUESDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2007

ANNUAL MEETING - MONDAY, NOVEMBER 19, 2007

REGULAR MEETING - MONDAY, DECEMBER 10, 2007

SPECIAL MEETING - MONDAY, JANUARY 7, 2008

REGULAR MEETING - MONDAY, JANUARY 14, 2008

SPECIAL MEETING - WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 16, 2008

SPECIAL MEETING - THURSDAY, JANUARY 24, 2008

SPECIAL MEETING - TUESDAY, JANUARY 22, 2008 (TENTATIVE)

TENTATIVE – WEATHER MAKE-UP DATE IF NEEDED*

SPECIAL MEETING
BERLIN BOARD OF EDUCATION
BERLIN PUBLIC SCHOOLS
TUESDAY, JANUARY 22, 2008
7:00 P.M. – BOARD OF EDUCATION MEETING ROOM
TOWN HALL COMPLEX

AGENDA

I.    CALL TO ORDER
II.    BUDGET PRESENTATIONS
III.    ADJOURNMENT

In the event one of the special meetings needs to be postponed due to inclement weather, this meeting is scheduled in place of it and will be clarified at that time.

SPECIAL MEETING - TUESDAY, JANUARY 29, 2008 (TENTATIVE)

TENTATIVE – WEATHER MAKE-UP DATE IF NEEDED*
SPECIAL MEETING
BERLIN BOARD OF EDUCATION
BERLIN PUBLIC SCHOOLS
TUESDAY, JANUARY 29, 2008
7:00 P.M. – BOARD OF EDUCATION MEETING ROOM
TOWN HALL COMPLEX

AGENDA

I. CALL TO ORDER
II. BUDGET PRESENTATIONS
III. ADJOURNMENT

In the event one of the special meetings needs to be postponed due to inclement weather, this meeting is scheduled in place of it and will be clarified at that time.

REGULAR MEETING - MONDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 2008

REGULAR MEETING - MONDAY, MARCH 10, 2008

REGULAR MEETING - MONDAY, MARCH 24, 2008

REGULAR MEETING - MONDAY, APRIL 14, 2008

REGULAR MEETING - MONDAY, APRIL 28, 2008

REGULAR MEETING - MONDAY, MAY 12, 2008

REGULAR MEETING - TUESDAY, MAY 27, 2008

REGULAR MEETING - MONDAY, JUNE 23, 2008

REGULAR MEETING - MONDAY, JUNE 9, 2008

REGULAR MEETING - MONDAY, JULY 21, 2008

REGULAR MEETING - MONDAY, AUGUST 18, 2008

REGULAR MEETING - MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 22, 2008

REGULAR MEETING - MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 8, 2008

REGULAR MEETING - TUESDAY, OCTOBER 14, 2008

REGULAR MEETING AGENDA - MONDAY, OCTOBER 27, 2008

Regular Meeting - October 22, 2001

Berlin Board of Education

Regular Meeting

October 22, 2001

MINUTES

PRESENT:              

Joseph Annunziata
Robert Argazzi
James Baranowski
Gary Brochu
Patricia DeVivo
David Martin
Kevin Porter
John Richards
Janice Zaccardo

 

  I.                                            
CALL TO ORDER

 

Mr. Brochu called the meeting to order at 7:04 p.m.

 

A.                 Pledge of Allegiance – Moment of Silence

 

B.                 STUDENT REPORT – GRISWOLD STUDENT REPORT

 

Griswold
School students John McNair, Emily Courtney, Rosie Colangelo and
Francesca Pedemonti shared some of their experiences from the Ropes
Course they participated in last June.  They were accompanied by 4th
grade teacher Graham Seekamp.  The students shared a paragraph they
wrote about their favorite part of the Sister Schools Project, which
included a pen pal relationship and three visitations with the students
from Chamberlain Elementary School in New Britain.  The goals of the
project were to create multi-cultural awareness and build self-esteem.

 

C.                Audience of Citizens

 

No one wished to address the Board.

 

II.            APPROVAL OF MINUTES

 

A.                 Regular Meeting of October 9, 2001

 

Moved by Mr. Richards, seconded by Mr. Baranowski to accept the minutes of the Meeting of October 9, 2001 as presented. 

 

FAVOR:  ALL

MOTION CARRIED:   6:0:2  Mrs. DeVivo and Mr. Martin abstaining

 

III.            Recognition of Retiring Board Members

 

Bob
Argazzi has been a member of the Board of Education since 1995, serving
two consecutive 3-year terms.  David Martin has served the Board at two
different times, this term being a one-year term since last November. 

 

Mr.
Brochu thanked both for their service.  Mr. Martin thanked everyone and
said it has been a wonderful four years.  Mr. Argazzi said that the six
years went by fast.  He has an appreciation for how difficult it is to
run an educational system and has a deep respect for administration.

 

IV.        OLD BUSINESS

 

A.                 2ND Reading for Adoption – Policy GBH
– Prohibition on Recommendations for Psychotropic Drugs

 

This
policy had a first reading on October 9, 2001.  Superintendent
Paskiewicz said that this policy addresses the overuse of Ritalin and
other psychotropic drugs and the policy is required by new state
legislation.  This policy prohibits school personnel from recommending
the use of psychotropic drugs for any child.  It is being presented now
for a second reading and adoption.

 

Moved
by Mr. Baranowski, seconded by Mr. Annunziata to adopt Policy GBH –
Prohibition on Recommendation s for Psychotropic Drugs.  This is in
compliance with new state legislation.

 

FAVOR:  ALL

MOTION CARRIED: 8:0

 

B.                 Board of Education Self-Evaluation

 

Mr.
Brochu distributed the BOE Evaluation Comments confidential memo.  Mr.
Brochu distributed a summary he had prepared from the six Board
evaluations he had received, listing the Board’s accomplishments,
disappointments, challenges, priorities and comments.  Discussion
followed.  It was noted that the timing was off on the self-evaluation;
it should have been completed prior to Board Goals.

 

Moved by Mrs. DeVivo, seconded by Mr. Baranowski to adopt the Board of Education Self-Evaluation.

 

FAVOR:  ALL

MOTION CARRIED: 8:0

 

C.                Update – Official School District Enrollment

 

Superintendent
Paskiewicz presented an update of the Official District Enrollment.  In
response to Mr. Richards’ comment at the last Board meeting that the
numbers were not consistent in the original report presented at the
last Board meeting, he distributed a corrected copy of the Official
School District Enrollment, as of 10/1/01.  The State Department of
Education projections are due late November based on birthrates,
housing starts and the Official District Enrollment submitted.  The
Superintendent also noted that big birth years are coming up. 

 

V.        NEW BUSINESS

 

A.                 Request for Sunday Use of Building – Berlin High
School

Berlin Basketball Association – 12/2/01 – 3/17/02

 

Moved
by Mr. Annunziata, seconded by Mr. Martin to approve the request of the
Berlin Basketball Association and allow Sunday use of BHS “B” Gym for
the Travel Basketball Program, from December 2, 2001 through March 17,
2002, from 1-6 P.M.

 

FAVOR:  ALL

MOTION CARRIED: 8:0

 

Mr.
Brochu inquired if we are waiving any fees.  The Superintendent
responded that it is his understanding that this is at the discretion
of the administration.  Mr. Paskiewicz said that all such program
requests will be reviewed in regards to fees.

 

B.                 Draft Board of Education Annual Report –
2001

 

A draft copy of the Berlin Public Schools Annual Report – 2001
had been distributed by Mr. Brochu.  He noted that this is the
completion of one of the Board of Education’s goals.  Mr. Brochu said
the report would be published and distributed at the Annual BOE Meeting
along with Board Goals. 

 

Mr.
Argazzi said that it was in his opinion that the data is slanted. 
While the figures are factual, if the text were worded differently, it
would present another view.  Mr. Brochu responded that this data is
available at the State Department of Education website and that the
text is consistent with the Board’s presentations to the community. 

 

Mrs.
DeVivo commented that she thinks the report is a great start and
commended Mr. Brochu on his efforts.  Superintendent Paskiewicz noted
that the report would be posted on the website.  Mr. Brochu said that
as more current information is made available by the state, he will
complete the appropriate charts.

 

Moved by Ms. DeVivo, seconded by Mr. Martin to approve the Berlin Public Schools Annual Report – 2001.

 

FAVOR:  ALL

MOTION CARRIED: 8:0

 

C.                Proposal Regarding Additional Evening Building
Supervision

 

The Superintendent reported that one of the district’s goals, prior to the tragic events of September 11th
was to review the safety procedures.  He met with his Administrative
Council and with Town Emergency Response Units.  Sporting events
currently have police on duty.  However, the concern is BHS, with many
late afternoon and evening activities.  They feel they need an
additional security person on duty at those times.  The funds will be
from the remainder seen on the Teacher Turnover Spreadsheet. 

 

Mr.
Richards cautioned about using these funds, as the “remainder” exists
only after the district “borrowed” against the unanticipated special
education tuition.  Mr. Brochu remarked that this is a health and
safety issue, which is very critical.  Mr. Porter asked if the police
department indicated that they have the resources to staff the
schools.  Superintendent Paskiewicz responded that they do not have the
resources to staff the schools on a daily basis.  We need someone
familiar with the students, staff and administration in the position. 

 

Mrs.
DeVivo stated that this is something that has to be addressed
immediately and suggested that we speak with the Town Manager and
Council to address the safety issues.  The issue was referred to the
Educational Resources Committee.

 

VI.            EXECUTIVE SESSION

 

A.                 Superintendent of Schools’ Evaluation

 

Moved by Mrs. DeVivo, seconded by Mr. Baranowski to enter into
Executive Session, for the purpose of discussion on the
Superintendent’s annual evaluation, at 8:30 p.m.

 

FAVOR:  ALL

MOTION CARRIED: 8:0

 

            Present in Executive Session:            Board members
Annunziata, Argazzi,

                       
                       
                        Baranowski, Brochu, DeVivo, Martin,

                       
                       
                        Porter, Richards, and Zaccardo.

 

Moved by Mrs. Zaccardo, seconded by Mrs. DeVivo to return to Regular Session at 9:00 p.m.

 

FAVOR:  ALL

MOTION CARRIED:    8:0

 

VII.       OPEN SESSION

 

A.                 Consideration of the Superintendent’s Evaluation
and Contract Extension

 

Moved by Mrs. DeVivo, seconded by Mr. Baranowski to accept the Superintendent’s Evaluation, as presented.

 

FAVOR:  ALL

MOTION CARRIED:   9:0

 

Moved by Mr. Annunziata, seconded by Mr. Richards to approve a one-year
extension for the Superintendent’s contract, to now include the
2003-2004 school year.

 

FAVOR:  ALL

MOTION CARRIED:   9:0

 

At 9:05, Board President Brochu adjourned the meeting

                       
                       
                       
                       

Respectfully submitted by,           

John M. Richards, Secretary

Berlin Board of Education

 

JMR:kac (Original 10/30/01; revised JMR 11/16/01)

01/05/2006

BERLIN BOARD of EDUCATION

January 5, 2006

MINUTES

Special Meeting

Board Members Present:	Gary Brochu
	Julie Erickson
	Kathy O’Donnell-Moss
	Anthony Recck
	Rachel Rochette
Also Present:	Michael T. Cicchetti, Superintendent
	George Synnott, Principal, Berlin High
	Richard Mills, Attorney for the Board
	Student A and Student A’s mother and father

The meeting was called to order by Board President Brochu at 7:30 a.m. in the Board of Education (the “Board”) meeting room at 238 Kensington Road, Berlin, CT.

Moved by Ms. Erickson, seconded by Mrs. O’Donnell-Moss to enter an executive session for the purpose of discussing a student expulsion.

FAVOR: All

MOTION CARRIED: 5:0

The Board members entered executive session at 7:30 a.m. Also present during the executive session were: Dr. Michael Cicchetti, Superintendent of Schools; George Synnott, Principal of Berlin High School; Attorney Richard Mills; Student A; and Student A’s mother and father.

Moved by Mrs. O’Donnell-Moss, seconded by Mr. Recck to return to regular session at 7:46 a.m.

FAVOR: All

MOTION CARRIED: 5:0

Moved by Mrs. O’Donnell-Moss, seconded by Mr. Recck that Student A shall be expelled from school, effective January 5, 2006, and continuing through January 5, 2007, under the following conditions:

1. During the period of expulsion, the Board will provide Student A with an alternative educational program deemed appropriate by the Administration, in accordance with the provisions of Section 10-233d of the Connecticut General Statutes.

1. During the period of his expulsion, Student A will not be permitted to be on school grounds and will not be permitted to attend or participate in any school-sponsored activities, with the sole exception of his participation in the alternative education program provided by the Board in accordance with the provisions of this motion.

1. Prior to the start of the 2006-07 school year (currently anticipated to begin on or about August 30, 2006), the Superintendent shall review Student A’s conduct, as well as his attendance and effort level in the alternative educational program. If the Superintendent determines that Student A’s conduct, together with his attendance and effort level in the alternative educational program, merits early readmission to school, the Superintendent may, in his sole discretion, readmit Student A to school, effective at the start of the 2006-07 school year.

1. If the Superintendent determines that Student A should be readmitted to school early in accordance with the preceding section, and if Student A subsequently commits any offense that would warrant suspension and/or expulsion under the policies of the Berlin Board of Education, then the Superintendent may reinstate Student A’s expulsion for the remainder of the expulsion period, through January 5, 2007, without the need for any further proceedings before the Berlin Board of Education.

FAVOR: All

MOTION CARRIED: 4:0

Moved by Mr. Recck, seconded by Ms. Rochette to adjourn the meeting at 7:50 a.m.

FAVOR: All

MOTION CARRIED: 5:0

Respectfully submitted,

Michael T. Cicchetti, Ed.D.

Superintendent of Schools

01/09/2006

BERLIN BOARD OF EDUCATION

January 9, 2006

MINUTES

REGULAR MEETING

Attendance: Gary Brochu

Julie Erickson

Michelle Hartel

Diane Mancini

Kathleen O’Donnell-Moss

Christopher Puzio

Anthony Recck

John Richards

Rachel Rochette Absent

 

Also in attendance: Superintendent of Schools Michael Cicchetti; Director of Curriculum and Instruction Susan Ford; Director of Business Operations Roman Czuchta; Director of Pupil Personnel Services Margaret Butler; Principal of McGee Middle School Brian Benigni; Principal of Hubbard School Nancy Testori; Principal of Griswold School Laurie Gjerpen; Principal of Berlin High School George Synnott; Principal of Willard School Maureen Walsh; and Assistant Principal of Willard School Thomas Veronesi.

I. CALL TO ORDER

 

Mr. Brochu called the meeting to order at 7:03 p.m. in the Board of Education (“the Board”) meeting room at 238 Kensington Road, Berlin, CT.

 

A. Pledge of Allegiance – Moment of Silence

 

The Pledge of Allegiance was led by student Nick Gurrieri. A Moment of Silence was observed.

 

II. BOARD AND ADMINISTRATIVE COMMUNICATIONS

 

Mr. Recck reported that he attended the PJ Case executive panel last Thursday and listened to families speak there. He will forward the minutes.

 

Ms. Susan Ford reported that Mike Schmoker will return to the district this week, meeting January 10^th with the elementary staff and principals and then on Wednesday January 11^th with the secondary level and high school staff, and the administrative council in the afternoon. Ms. Ford has also arranged for Mike Schmoker to offer a session for other districts on Thursday morning.

Berlin Board of Education Minutes

January 9, 2006

Ms. Margaret Butler reported that the pre-school screenings will take place on January 20 and 21, 2006. We have close to 100 families signed up for the two, three, and four year old screenings.

 

Mr. Roman Czuchta reported that he has received three responses to our RFP for the demographic and facilities study and has distributed them out to the Boards Resources and Alignment Committee. Mr. Czuchta also informed the Board that the new pre-school booster seats were implemented this past Wednesday. Letters were sent to both parents of students who were being transported as well as those eligible to be transported. He reported that we received three responses from parents asking that their child not be placed in a booster seat, and one response from parents of two children who were not being transported asking for transportation.

 

Superintendent Cicchetti reported on a social studies class project he received from McGee Middle School teacher Cindy Botticello. Dr. Cicchetti recognized and shared the calendar project Kristine Jutras, kindergarten teacher at Griswold School, did with her class. Dr. Cicchetti commended the students and staff who worked to present the high school’s Madrigal Feaste this past Sunday. He reported that it was a wonderful afternoon featuring acting, and brass and choral music.

 

Mr. Brochu reported that during the December break Dr. Cicchetti, Mr. Czuchta, and he met with the mayor, town manager, and head of finance to discuss budget preparation, our challenges, as well as a joint direction in going forward and indicated this was productive. Also, the CABE Area Legislative breakfast will take place at the Legislative Office Building on Thursday, February 9, 2006. Mr. Brochu reported he will be in Washington, D.C. the first week in February for two conferences: a leadership conference with one of the seminars on the Iowa lighthouse study, which was included in the last Board packet, and the second on the Federal Relations Network.

 

III. STUDENT PRESENTATION – MCGEE MIDDLE SCHOOL

 

McGee Middle School Advisor Ted Mangi and student presenters Woody Shattuck, Chris Kolodziej, Emily Carroll, Justin Dubree, Adam Becker, Liz O’Donnell and Nick Gurrieri presented to the Board information regarding the McGee FIRST LEGO League. Mr. Mangi reported that the McGee FIRST LEGO league team works cooperatively to solve real-world problems through robot design and research. This process allows students to demonstrate their problem solving skills, creative thinking, teamwork, competitive play, sportsmanship, and a sense of community.

Berlin Board of Education Minutes

January 9, 2006

 

 

IV. AUDIENCE OF CITIZENS

John Brochu, 86 Cottage Street, Berlin, CT came before the Board regarding the McGee School baseball and softball programs. He requested that another assistant coach be hired for safety reasons. Currently, there is one full time coach for the boy’s baseball and girl’s softball programs as well one full time assistant coach, which is split between the two programs. Mr. Brochu felt it was virtually impossible for one coach, on days when they are alone, to adequately coach and still supervise all the players. Superintendent Cicchetti indicated that we are aware of these concerns of the parents and coach. Mr. Benigni indicated that he is working with Athletic Director Jim Day to do a breakdown of all sports, district wide, looking at where the priorities are in putting an assistant coach in place as well as some possible intramural monies available for this season.

 

V. CONSENT AGENDA

A. Approval of Minutes

1. Regular Meeting of December 12, 2005

MOTION FOR CONSIDERATION: MOVE to approve the minutes of the regular meeting of December 12, 2005 as presented.

B. Payment of Bills – Period ending November 30, 2005

MOTION FOR CONSIDERATION: MOVE that the bills for the period ending November 30, 2005, including payroll totaling $2,883,607.88, of which Town is $2,813,496.09, Federal is $69,087.94, Building Use is $333.88, Olive Selden is

$524.80, and Afternoon Adventures is $165.17, listed for payment or already paid for in accordance with standard fiscal procedure be approved for payment.

 

C. Out-of-State Field Trip Requests – Willard School

 

MOTION FOR CONSIDERATION: MOVE to approve the request of Principal Maureen Walsh, to allow grade 5 students to travel to Nature’s Classroom in Charlton, MA on January 23-27, 2006 and grade 4 students to travel to the Boston Science Museum in Boston, MA on May 26, 2006.

Moved by Mr. Recck, seconded by Ms. Mancini, to approve the consent agenda as presented.

 

FAVOR: ALL

MOTION CARRIED: 7:0

 

Berlin Board of Education Minutes

January 9, 2006

 

 

VI. PERSONNEL

A. Appointments

 

1. Speech Pathologist .4 – Hubbard School

Moved by Mrs. O’Donnell-Moss, seconded by Ms. Erickson to accept the appointment of Ms. Joan Schmidt as .4 speech pathologist at Hubbard School.

FAVOR: ALL

MOTION CARRIED: 7:0

2. School Psychologist .5 – Berlin High School

 

Moved by Ms. Erickson, seconded by Mr. Puzio, to accept the appointment of Mr. Joshua Shifrin as .5 school psychologist at Berlin High School.

FAVOR: ALL

MOTION CARRIED: 7:0

 

B. Retirements

Moved by Mr. Richards, seconded by Mr. Recck, to accept the retirement of Ms. Maureen Walsh, Principal at Willard School, effective January 31, 2006, and her “rehiring” as the acting principal of the school through the end of the 2005-06

school year, subject to the approval of the State Department of Education. Also to thank her for the thirty-seven (37) years of service she has provided to educating the youth of Berlin and to wish her a long and healthy retirement.

 

FAVOR: ALL

MOTION CARRIED: 7:0

 

Moved by Mr. Richards, seconded by Mr. Recck, to accept the retirement of Mr. Thomas Veronesi, Assistant Principal at Willard School, effective January 31, 2006, and his “rehiring” as the acting assistant principal of the school until no later than January 31, 2007, subject to the approval of the State Department of Education.

 

Ms. Walsh and Mr. Veronesi extended their appreciation for the opportunities they have received over the past 37 years and 39 years of service respectively. Ms. Walsh indicated she was thankful for the great time she has had during this time period and Mr. Veronesi indicated that the Board of Education is one of the major functions of the Town and he will continue to support it.

Berlin Board of Education Minutes

January 9, 2006

 

 

VII. INFORMATION AND REPORTS

A. Activity Fund Reports

1. Berlin High School Enterprise Fund – Period ending November 30, 2005

2. Berlin Public Schools Activity Fund – Period ending November 30, 2005

3. Cafeteria Fund – Period ending November 30, 2005

No motion is necessary for these reports. Please note with interest.

VIII. RECOMMENDED ACTION

 

A. Policy Revisions

1. Policy BCE – Permanent Committees – 1^st Reading

2. Policy BCEA – Leadership, Accountability and Measurement Committee – 1^st Reading

3. Policy BCEB – Communications and Alignment Committee – 1^st Reading

4. Policy BCEC – Resources and Capacity Building Committee – 1^st Reading

 

At the December 12, 2005 Board of Education meeting, a new committee structure was proposed and discussed. The policy revisions listed above reflect those changes. The first reading and discussion of these revisions took place. The second reading will take place at the next Board meeting on January 23, 2006 at which time a recommendation will be made to adopt the new policies.

IX. 2006-2007 PROPOSED BUDGET PRESENTATION

 

A. Superintendent’s Budget Presentation

 

Superintendent Cicchetti presented his proposed 2006-07 budget to the Board, which was distributed to all present. Dr. Cicchetti note that his letter in the budget document provided pertinent information for understanding the budget request. The presentation was guided by the budget priorities that were identified this fall by the Board and Administrative Council. This was the first overview of the budget and Dr.. Cicchetti indicated he was pleased to present bring it to the Board. He recognized and thanked the administration team and staff in each of the schools, as well as the central office team for their efforts in building the budget and providing extensive backup material. Dr.

 

Berlin Board of Education Minutes

January 9, 2006

 

 

Cicchetti specifically recognized Roman Czuchta for his work, his accuracy, and the tremendous amount of support in creating a slightly different budget document this year.

 

Dr. Cicchetti reported that the proposed budget has an overall increase of $2,216,843 or 7.18% from last year, which represents a 6.87% increase to maintain the current level of services and a 0.309% increase for new staff/programs. The proposed budget reflects what he feels are priority needs for improving student achievement and success, which is the Board’s overall goal focus area. Dr. Cicchetti outlined the components of the increase in the Operational Budget to maintain the current level of services. Dr. Cicchetti reported that the reduction in the amount of supplies, textbooks, and materials reflects the reallocation of athletic supplies, and not classroom supplies and textbooks. He reported that the contractual obligations for certified and non-certified staff, benefit costs associates with collective bargaining agreements and utilities were the major budget drivers. Utilities were a major factor since previous years’ increases averaged less than 0.2%, compared with the almost 1.4% increase for next year. At a joint meeting of Town and Board of Education leadership, the way utilities increases would be determined was discussed.

 

Dr. Cicchetti reviewed the New Staff/Programs Requests which represented a 0.309% increase to the budget as well as the New Staff/Programs Request Considered but Not Included. Dr. Cicchetti cited national school improvement leader Michael Fullan’s belief that districts need to focus on literacy, numeracy and emotional intelligence.

Using the budget priorities as a framework, Dr. Cicchetti reviewed each of the new staff/program requests as they related to the budget priorities. Enrollment projections were reviewed as they related to staffing requests.

 

Dr. Cicchetti noted that the gap between Berlin’s per pupil spending and the State average per pupil spending is $1,500.00. In order for Berlin to meet the State “average” for per pupil spending, an additional $4.8 million would need to be added to the budget. This would equate to an additional 15.6% increase above and beyond the 7.18% he is requesting.

 

As the Board moves forward in their budget development process, they will have individual presentations from the elementary, middle school and high school administrations as well as Margaret Butler on special education and Roman Czuchta on some of the district programs. These presentations will allow more in-depth discussion and questions. Dr. Cicchetti, on behalf of the entire administrative team, conveyed his support of the Board in providing information that would help them finalize their 2006-07 Budget for submission to the Town.

 

 

Berlin Board of Education Minutes

January 9, 2006

 

 

Mr. Richards directed several questions regarding the Proposed Budget asking that the administration provide responses, either through Board communications or in the upcoming presentations. He appreciated the work that went into developing the budget.

 

Ms. Hartel, Mrs. Mancini, Mrs. Erickson, and Mr. Brochu conveyed their appreciation to the entire administrative team and Dr. Cicchetti for the work they did in preparing the budget. They conveyed favorable comments regarding the streamlined budget document and use of budget priorities this year.

X. ADJOURNMENT

Moved by Mrs. O’Donnell-Moss, seconded by Mr. Recck, to adjourn the meeting at 8:55 p.m.

 

FAVOR: ALL

MOTION CARRIED: 7:0

 

01/17/2006 (Special Meeting)

BERLIN BOARD OF EDUCATION

January 17, 2006

MINUTES

SPECIAL MEETING

 

Attendance:      Gary Brochu

                        Julie Erickson  

                        Michelle Hartel                                     Absent

                        Diane Mancini                                       

                        Kathleen O’Donnell-Moss

                        Christopher Puzio                                             Absent

                        Anthony Recck

                        John Richards                                                  

                        Rachel Rochette                      

 

Also in attendance:  Superintendent of Schools Dr. Michael Cicchetti; Director of Curriculum and Instruction Susan Ford; Director of Business Operations Roman Czuchta; Director of Pupil Personnel Services Margaret Butler; Principal of Hubbard School Nancy Testori; Principal of Griswold School Laurie Gjerpen; and Principal of Willard School Maureen Walsh.

I.                                                        

I.          CALL TO ORDER

 

Mr. Brochu called the meeting to order at 7:08 p.m. in the Board of Education (“the Board”) meeting room at 238 Kensington Road, Berlin, CT.

 

II.        BUDGET PRESENTATIONS

 

A.                 Elementary Principals’

 

The three Elementary School Principals presented the Board with their Budget requests for the 2006/2007 school year.  They are requesting a full-time Developmental Guidance Counselor that the elementary schools would share.  The Counselor would give support to an increasing number of students entering school with special needs. 

 

They are also requesting a 1.0 Reading/Language Arts Coordinator – District Wide, which will have a heavy involvement at the elementary level, who would work particularly close with Hubbard School because this position is funded in half by a reallocation of a remedial resource position at Hubbard.  A Reading/Language Arts Coordinator would guarantee a curriculum, district-wide, for all children, all of our schools would share the same vision of successful literacy for all students, and there would be support for teachers, administration and staff. 

 

They are also requesting a 1.0 Math Coordinator that the elementary schools would share.  The Math Coordinator would spend time in classrooms, demonstrating lessons to build

Berlin Board of Education

Special Board Meeting

January 17, 2006

 

 

teachers’ strategies in teaching the new math.  This Math Coordinator would work with the principals and analyze student performance data, working with teams of teachers and provide professional development.   

 

All three spoke of the student enrollment at their schools and concern over the space available.    

Mrs. Walsh, Principal, Willard School reviewed the Operational cost requests and enrollment projections.  In addition to the shared Guidance Counselor, 1.0 Reading/Language Arts Coordinator – District Wide and 1.0 Math Coordinator - Elementary also requested is a 1.0 Grade 2 Teacher. 

Ms. Gjerpen, Principal, Griswold School reviewed the Operational cost requests and enrollment projections.  She reported having a net change of no new teachers at this point.  She reported that they have the room for a full time third grade classroom or a half time kindergarten class.  In addition to the shared Guidance Counselor, 1.0 Reading/Language Arts Coordinator – District Wide and 1.0 Math Coordinator - Elementary also requested is a .5 Special Education Teacher to support four students who are returning to their home school that have autism or are behavioral challenged.  This half-time teacher will support direct instruction, discrete trial instruction and inclusion activities for these student who require a very individualized approach in order to benefit from instruction.

 

Mrs. Testori, Principal, Hubbard School reviewed the Operational cost requests and enrollment projections.  She also reported having a net change of no teachers at this point.  Ms. Testori discussed the request for the need of trained Kindergarten Aides district wide to support both teachers and students.

Ms. Ford and Ms. Gjerpen discussed the request for continued Professional Development Funding as to the administration and as to teachers to continue the commitment to professional growth opportunities for teaching staff, administrators and Board of Education members. 

 

Dr. Cicchetti discussed the request of a Data Specialist indicating the continuous improvement work depends on teachers’ ongoing assessment of students and common assessments.  We need benchmarks throughout the year, and we need someone to help us organize data, make sure it is assessable to teachers, assist principals and coordinators in looking at results and translate how instruction should change in the classroom.  It is such an essential component to continuous improvement work that we need a Data Specialist to support us in this. 

Berlin Board of Education

Special Board Meeting

January 17, 2006

 

Ms. Gjerpen discussed the request for the critical need for technology that supports both student learning and management/operations.

 

Mrs. Testori noted the continued support that is received from their respective PTO Groups.  She praised the efforts of the PTO and expressed how vital the PTO, both with manpower and monetarily, and thanked them for all they contribute, in the contributions to field trips, running the publishing center, funding the library with books, and as parent volunteers helping in the classrooms.  

 

III.       ADJOURNMENT

 

Moved by Mr. Recck, seconded by Mrs. O’Donnell-Moss, to adjourn the meeting at 9:48 p.m. 

 

FAVOR:         ALL

MOTION CARRIED:  6:0

 

01/23/2006

BERLIN BOARD OF EDUCATION

January 23, 2006

MINUTES

REGULAR MEETING

Attendance: Gary Brochu

Julie Erickson

Michelle Hartel Arrived at 7:40 p.m.

Diane Mancini

Kathleen O’Donnell-Moss

Christopher Puzio

Anthony Recck Absent

John Richards

Rachel Rochette

Also in attendance: Superintendent of Schools Michael Cicchetti; Director of Curriculum and Instruction Susan Ford; Director of Business Operations Roman Czuchta; Director of Pupil Personnel Services Margaret Butler; Principal of McGee Middle School Brian Benigni; Principal of Berlin High School George Synnott; and Athletic Director Jim Day.

 

I. CALL TO ORDER

Mr. Brochu called the meeting to order at 7:03 p.m. in the Board of Education (“the Board”) meeting room at 238 Kensington Road, Berlin, CT.

II. BOARD AND ADMINISTRATIVE COMMUNICATIONS

Ms. Kathleen O’Donnell-Moss reported that she attended Mike Schmoker’s workshop, which she thought was a wonderful investment in our teaching staff as well as a benefit to her as a Board member. It was definitely worthwhile as it ties in with our work and what the administration is working on and it seems as if everyone is on the same page working towards improving student achievement.

Mr. Puzio reported that last Tuesday he attended a private fundraiser for Muscular Dystrophy. He is going to work with the Muscle team, the committee that organized the fundraiser, to set up a fundraiser in Wallingford and probably here in Berlin.

Ms. Mancini reported on her attendance at the Forum of the League of Woman Voters held this past Saturday.

Mr. Richards reported that the Resources and Capacity-Building Committee met and one of the items discussed was the response to a RFP for completion of a demographic, enrollment, and capacity study. The committee reviewed the three organizations that responded to the RFP and will report at the next meeting as to the selection of a consultant to complete the study.

Ms. Susan Ford reported that, the day after Mike Schmoker was here on January 13, we had a visiting team from the University of New Haven for Project Lead the Way, and they were looking into certification of the two courses that we offer at the high school. Students enrolled in those courses will be certified and those students who pass the final test with a certain grade, can apply to obtain college credits for that course. Sixteen technical colleges around the area accept these courses automatically; other colleges can be petitioned to accept these courses. She reported that Dave Salonia has done a fine job in preparing for and facilitating the certification visit.

Ms. Margaret Butler reported on the preschool screening, which took place on January 20 and 21, 2006. Approximately 130 children were screened between the ages of two years, four months and four years, six months. She indicated the turnout was wonderful and it was a great success. Both children, as well as staff, benefit from the experience.

Dr. Cicchetti reported that he stopped in at the preschool screening and was very impressed. It was professional, well-organized, and very worthwhile as it gives our school system an opportunity to support students who need something different prior to beginning their kindergarten experience. Dr. Cicchetti also introduced Jason Pheasant, the new Berlin correspondent from the New Britain Herald.

Mr. Brochu indicated he had with him a copy of the agenda for the Leadership Conference he will be attending in Washington, DC in two weeks. It contains an entire seminar on the Iowa Study, which Board members received previously. He asked that copies be included in the next Board Update packet. Mr. Brochu also reminded the Board of the CABE Area Legislative Breakfast scheduled for Thursday, February 9, 2006, from 8 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. at the Legislative Office Building.

III. AUDIENCE OF CITIZENS

Nothing to report.

IV. CONSENT AGENDA

1. Approval of Minutes

   1. Regular Meeting of January 9, 2006

MOTION FOR CONSIDERATION: MOVE to approve the minutes of the regular meeting of January 9, 2006 as presented.

1. Out-of-State Field Trip Requests – McGee Middle School

MOTION FOR CONSIDERATION: MOVE to approve the request of Principal Brian Benigni to allow the Berlin FIRST Robotics team to travel to Manchester, NH on March 2-4, 2006 to attend a competition and Atlanta, GA on April 26-30, 2006 to attend the National Competition.

Moved by Ms. O’Donnell-Moss, seconded by Ms. Erickson, to approve the consent agenda as presented.

FAVOR: ALL

MOTION CARRIED: 6:0

V. RECOMMENDED ACTION

1. Policy Revisions – Second Reading and Recommended Adoption

1. Policy BCE – Permanent Committees

2. Policy BCEA – Leadership, Accountability and Measurement Committee

3. Policy BCEB – Communications and Alignment Committee

4. Policy BCEC – Resources and Capacity-Building Committee

The first reading of the policy revisions took place at the December 9, 2006 Board of Education meeting. This is the second reading, with recommended adoption of the policies as presented.

Moved by Mr. Richards, seconded by Ms. Rochette, to approve and adopt the policies BCE, BCEA, BCEB and BCEC as presented.

FAVOR: ALL

MOTION CARRIED: 6:0

Moved by Mr. Richards, seconded by Ms. O’Donnell-Moss, to add the consideration of deletion of policy BCED.

FAVOR: ALL

MOTION CARRIED: 6:0

Moved by Ms. Erickson, seconded by Ms. Mancini, that we delete policy BCED from our policy.

FAVOR: ALL

MOTION CARRIED: 6:0

VI. 2006-2007 PROPOSED BUDGET PRESENTATION

A. Secondary Principals’ Budget Presentation

Athletics: Jim Day, Athletic Director, addressed the Board with regard to the co-curriculum requests, which include an Assistant Coach – Cross Country at McGee Middle School, additional hours for an athletic trainer at Berlin High School, increasing the number of opportunities for student athletics and adding a girls’ lacrosse program.

Mr. Day made a few observations about the Athletic Department, highlighting the program’s achievements, which include five teams having won conference titles, the baseball team winning the Class L state title last year, the Unified Sports program winning the Michael’s Cup, student athletes continuing to excel academically, two basketball players nominated for the McDonald’s All American Team, and one wrestler selected as honorable mention All American for the Class 2007. The new men’s swimming team is off to a very good start, particularly the dynamics of the program. Mr. Day reported that recent budget cuts have resulted in much more aggressive fundraising tactics.

Mr. Day also highlighted the weaknesses that he hopes to address in this budget.

(1) Athletic training hours. Currently, the district receives 12 hours per week of athletic training. There is a pressing need to increase those hours so multiple events can be covered. Berlin High School is one of only five high school programs in the state that have the Impact Program, which is a way of assessing cognitive ability after a head injury to see if it has occurred. We cannot, however, fully institute the program because of the limited hours of the athletic trainer, who institutes the program. The request is to increase athletic training time to 25 hours a week. A reallocation of supplies money within the Athletics Program budget will, in part, support this additional trainer time.

(2) The McGee Middle School Cross Country Assistant Coach. Mr. Day distributed a handout depicting the current ratios for McGee Interscholastic Sports Programs. Currently the coach to athletic ratio is 1:60 in cross country, which is unacceptable. The number of students who participate in cross country each fall requires an assistant coach, primarily for supervisory purposes.

(3) Increase the opportunity for students to participate in athletics. Of the towns sampled, Berlin ranked 12 of the 16 schools in the number of opportunities available for student athletics. Overall, Berlin ranks 17 out of the schools selected for comparison; all of these schools are either in the Nutmeg Football League or are towns with which Berlin is most often compared.

(4) The Girls’ Lacrosse Program at Berlin High School. The district needs to add a sport for girls to remain in compliance with Title IX, in light of the new men’s swimming program added this year.

Secondary Principals’ Budget Presentation:

Mr. Synnott began by indicating that the entire budget being presented is designed to meet the goals and objectives set by the Board of Education and the priorities created by the Administration Council. Everything being requested can all be tied to continuous improvement for student learning and improvement in our schools for students’ achievement and success. He asked that the Board consider this as both Mr. Benigni and he make their presentations. The major goal is to improve student learning.

Staffing: With regard to staffing, Mr. Synnott is requesting an additional 1.0 FTE Math Teacher to address class size issues and maintain the current course offerings. Mr. Synnott indicated a significant problem with class sizes at the high school in the math department. In order to graduate, students need three credits of math; however, 85% of students at Berlin High School take four years of math. Currently, classroom sizes range from as few as 12 to 15 students and to as high as 31 and 32 students. The reason for this is because of the nature of the course. Certain students demand more attention and some of those classes, by their very nature; have to be small in size. This year we have seven sections that have 28 or more students in each section. Of those, five sections have more than 30 students. The two UCONN Advanced Placement classes in Statistics have 30 students in one class and 31 in the other. These are large numbers for an advanced placement UCONN class. We also have one section of Algebra 2 accelerated with 31 students. Requested by the high school, but not included in the Superintendent’s Proposed Budget was a half-time Business teacher.

Mr. Benigni confirmed that there are no staffing requests for McGee for this budget year.

Student Support: With regard to student support, Mr. Synnott is requesting a 1.0 FTE Instructional Support Teacher. This position will focus on the population of students who are identified as struggling learners and do not receive Special Education Services. The teacher will provide in-class professional development training for teachers and paraprofessionals on meeting the needs of struggling learners; assist with the development of curriculum and common assessments; and monitor preparation of all students for state and national assessments. This preparation is important in preparing for the October 2007 NEASC accreditation site visit.

Mr. Benigni is requesting an after-school-tutorial program for McGee. This after-school program will provide middle school students with support in reading, writing and mathematics to reach goal in areas of the CMT and district standards. This program was targeted for non-special educational students. Struggling learners often need additional time to reach proficiency levels with material that is presented by teachers during the regular instructional day. The middle school proposes to call this program SPRINT – Students Practicing and Receiving Instruction Now for Tomorrow. It is believed that the high school experience for these students will be more successful if they can enter ninth grade with a strong foundation in reading, writing, and mathematics. Mr. Benigni provided the Board with an estimate of students who would have been identified this year if a program were in place. The program will be funded through Project CHOICE monies.

Teaching and Learning: Principals Synnott and Benigni discussed the need for professional development. Mr. Synnott spoke of the Harvard workshop he has attended and the positive benefits received from it as well as other workshops and the need to take part in these workshops if we are to succeed in improving teaching and learning. The overall goal of professional development is to provide training that will be applied immediately back in the classroom setting. This may be accomplished by bringing some training right into the schools. Mr. Benigni indicated he was thankful for the opportunity given to him, as well as the support for the teachers.

Dr. Cicchetti discussed Curriculum Development Funding and noted a research study of California schools. The most significant factor in improving teaching and learning for students was the existence of a coherent, standards-based curriculum in all content areas, kindergarten through grade 12, including student assessments. The development of such documents will require a major investment on the part of the district.

Technology: Mr. Synnott reported the high school had done pretty well with technology to a point and then reached a plateau. The high school had an infusion of money which enabled it to establish computer labs, which are now obsolete. Mr. Synnott indicated he has not put in for specific technology requests, but believes a data specialist would be a tremendous benefit. Mr. Benigni’s goal is to create two classrooms per year that allow teachers and students to utilize the most up-to-date instructional technology. A typical 21^st century classroom would include a Smartboard, LCD projector, interactive lectern, internet access, a mobile laptop lab, CD-Rom editions of textbooks, a freshly painted room, updated lighting, white boards and new ceiling tiles. He questions if students are not using the latest technology available today, how will they be prepared for tomorrow?

Principals Synnott and Benigni discussed their facilities requests. My Synnott indicated that the lavatories in the 1955 wing at the high school are in desperate need of renovation, the science labs need to be upgraded and renovated and the auditorium is so small it cannot accommodate more than one class at a time. Classrooms need to be reconfigured as we currently have eight teachers “on carts,” i.e. without a classroom to serve as a home base. Mr. Synnott would like to have large areas where several teachers in departments can come together to collaborate. Mr. Benigni indicated the lavatories need to be renovated at McGee Middle School, the outside of the building needs painting and a facelift so that it has a warm and inviting appeal as one approaches the building.

VI. EXECUTIVE SESSION

Moved by Ms. O’Donnell-Moss, seconded by Ms. Rochette, to enter into executive session at 9:35 p.m. for the purposes of personnel.

FAVOR: ALL

MOTION CARRIED: 7:0

Moved by Ms. Rochette, to exit from executive session at 10:45 p.m.

FAVOR: ALL

MOTION CARRIED: 7:0

VII. ADJOURNMENT

Moved by Mr. Richards, seconded by Ms. O’Donnell-Moss, to adjourn the meeting at 10:48 p.m.

FAVOR: ALL

MOTION CARRIED: 9:0

01/25/2006(Special Meeting)

January 25, 2006

MINUTES

SPECIAL MEETING

Attendance: Gary Brochu

Julie Erickson

Michelle Hartel

Diane Mancini

Kathleen O’Donnell-Moss Arrived at 7:50 p.m.

Christopher Puzio

Anthony Recck Arrived at 7:35 p.m.

John Richards

Rachel Rochette

Also in attendance: Superintendent of Schools Dr. Michael Cicchetti; Director of Curriculum and Instruction Susan Ford; Director of Business Operations Roman Czuchta; and Director of Pupil Personnel Services Margaret Butler

I. CALL TO ORDER

Mr. Brochu called the meeting to order at 7:03 p.m. in the Board of Education (“the Board”) meeting room at 238 Kensington Road, Berlin, CT.

II. BUDGET PRESENTATIONS

A. Special Education Budget

Mrs. Butler's presentation followed an agenda and handouts, which were distributed to the Board and to the audience. She presented the board with an overview of her department discussing the services offered at each school, as well as the responsibilities within the individual schools. She discussed the enrollment ratios of students to teachers, the number of students served in each capacity participating in special services programs and related services for the current school year compared to last year.

Mrs. Butler discussed the Distribution of Student by Exceptionality Code. The most prevalent disability in the district is Speech and Language with 158 students. Mrs. Butler noted that we are continuing to see students with a complexity of disorders, and we are trying as best as possible to keep students in their neighborhood schools.

One of Mrs. Butler’s requests is a 0.5 FTE Special Education Teacher at the Griswold School. Four students, currently in the Willard Special Education Program with autism and challenging behaviors, will be returning to Griswold next year for first grade. These students require a level of service beyond what is normally provided at Griswold. This

Berlin Board of Education

Special Board Meeting

January 25, 2006

half-time teacher will support direct instruction, discrete trial instruction and inclusion activities for students who require a very individualized approach in order to benefit from typical instruction.

With regard to Student Support, Mrs. Butler is requesting the 0.5 FTE Speech and Language Pathologist. The complexity of disabilities is increasing, and they require a greater amount of skill development than we have seen in a long time. We currently have 218 students receiving speech therapy in the district, a ratio of 40.4:1. This position will help the needs of an increasing complexity and number of students who need communication services, particularly those with autism and severe communication disorders. It is recommended that this position be funded from the special education grant.

Another major component under Student Support is Tuition. Special Education tuition is a big part of the budget. Mrs. Butler discussed the out of district tuition as outlined in her handout for the school years 1988 -89 through the present. In 1988 – 89, 12% of the special education population was placed in out of district facilities compared with 2.8% for the current school year, with ten students placed by Berlin and two placed by DCF. She noted that we have been able to keep our numbers down because of the wonderful resources given to the department. She reported on the range of tuitions being paid now, the least expensive being $12,371 for a placement at Southington Vo-Ag and the most expensive being $138,460 for a placement at CREC Coltsville for a student with very complex disabilities. The budget Mrs. Butler is presenting is based on an anticipated 19 students to be out of district.

Mrs. Butler also made note or her request for a social worker to ease the disparity between services provided at the elementary levels and that at the middle school and high school. She also discussed the request for four additional aides to support students with challenging behaviors and autism. These requests for additional staffing did not get submitted as part of the Superintendent’s budget proposal.

Mrs. Butler noted that Professional Development is essential and that special education and related service staff participate in the district offerings because they need to know what is happening in support of student achievement. She also spoke of the Curriculum Development that occurs over the summer and its usefulness.

With regard to technology, Mrs. Butler offered support for the need of the Data Specialist position as there is a tremendous amount of data to be analyzed in the Special Education Department. Currently, all this is being done by hand, which is very time consuming. She also spoke of the benefits of Assistive Technology and how important it is to Special Education. She is also requesting 12 computers to update what the department has.

Berlin Board of Education

Special Board Meeting

January 25, 2006

Mrs. Butler discussed the space challenges with NET, preschool/kindergarten, learning centers and occupational and physical therapy. She reported, currently at the Griswold School, the occupational therapist and physical therapist currently share a room the size of 13’.5” x 10’.1”.

Mrs. Butler answered questions from the board concerning her presentation of her budget as well as discussed the State's inability to fund the "excess costs" for special education, which are those services and transportation costs that exceed four and one half times Berlin's per pupil expenditure. She reported that anything paid over $41,274 should come back to the district in its entirety. Two years ago, the state reduced that by 44%. This current year we are anticipating a reduction of 25%. Prior to two years ago we were getting 100% back on every tuition that cost over five times the per pupil expenditure. Now, they have lowered it to four and one half times and reduced the reimbursement.

A short break took place from 9:07 p.m. to 9:17 p.m.

B. District –Wide Non-Instructional Programs

Mr. Roman Czuchta, Director of Business Operations provided handouts to the Board. He noted that with regard to staffing, Custodial Account, he has budgeted $18,000 more for overtime for next year versus this year due to the ceasing of the policy to charge Park & Recreation for regular custodial time and not charging community groups for regular custodial time. This means that if there is a custodian in the building when it is being used by an outside group, we will not be charging them for those services.

Mr. Czuchta gave an overview of the Fringe Benefits Budget, Transportation Budget, Contracted Services Budget and Utlities Budget as outlined in the handouts. He also discussed the Site and Building Maintenance Budget and Capital Equipment Budget, which are not part of the Board’s Operational Budget.

Mr. Czuchta reported that Medical Insurance is the largest driver in the Fringe Benefits budget. Preliminary information from Anthem Blue Cross given to us and the town, back in November, projected a rate increase of 12.6% or $369,101. Mr. Czuchta reported that he recently received a phone call from our consultant and that percentage is now 15%. The consultant is confident he can bring it back down to the 12.6% range, and he should have a final number for us within a week’s time.

With regard to the transportation budget, projected fuel costs account for approximately $31,000 of the total transportation increase of $62,079.

With regard to the contracted services budget, Mr. Czuchta listed some of the types of the expenditures that come under the broad definition of contract services and highlighted the budget drivers for same.

Of concern in the Utlities Budget was the overall increase of 44% in the electrical budget over the current year amount. The natural gas budget is based on average usage levels and a $1.56/ccf cost. The current cost is approximately $1.75. In 2005 – 2006 the budgeted amount was $1.05 per ccf.

Berlin Board of Education

Special Board Meeting

January 25, 2006

Mr. Czuchta distributed a handout of the capital expenditures guidelines for annual maintenance compiled in March 2001 and indicated he would provide an update with current figures.

1. Board of Education Overall Review

The next meeting will take place on February 13, 2006 for the adoption of the budget. Mr. Brochu requested that if anyone needs additional information, or has questions, to please email Dr. Cicchetti and let the administration know. On behalf of the Board, Mr. Brochu thanked Dr. Cicchetti and his team. The presentations were very thorough, focused on priorities and all sessions were very beneficial. Mr. Brochu indicated that is very important that the board members understand and grasp what we are doing; not just what the budget request is but also what we hope to accomplish as a result.

Dr. Cicchetti reiterated to the Board his hope that the Board will make the connections to what is being requested, our future work and what we have done this year in preparation for continuing improvement.

Mrs. Kathleen O’Donnell-Moss reported that having elementary principals come together as a team, as well as the middle school and high school principals as a team, was a huge step in the right direction.

III. ADJOURNMENT

Moved by Mr. Recck, seconded by Mrs. O’Donnell-Moss, to adjourn the meeting at 10:37 p.m.

FAVOR: ALL

MOTION CARRIED: 8:0

03/27/2006

05/08/2006

BERLIN BOARD OF EDUCATION

May 8, 2006

MINUTES

REGULAR MEETING

Attendance: Gary Brochu

Julie Erickson

Michelle Hartel

Diane Mancini

Kathleen O’Donnell-Moss

Christopher Puzio

Anthony Recck Absent

John Richards

Rachel Rochette Arrived at 7:14 p.m.

Also in attendance: Director of Curriculum and Instruction Susan Ford; Director of Business Operations Roman Czuchta; Principal of Griswold School Laurie Gjerpen; Principal of Hubbard School Nancy Testori; Principal of McGee Middle School Brian Benigni; Assistant Principal of McGee Middle School Brenda Janik; Dean of Students James Sachs; and Director of Pupil Personnel Services Margaret Butler.

I. CALL TO ORDER

Mr. Brochu called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. in the Board of Education (“the Board”) meeting room at 238 Kensington Road, Berlin, CT. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by student, Cara Johnson. A Moment of Silence was observed. Mr. Brochu informed the Board that the Superintendent would not be in attendance at the meeting due to his daughter’s Confirmation ceremony that evening.

 

II. BOARD AND ADMINISTRATIVE COMMUNICATIONS

 

Ms. Ford reported that she has been meeting with the elementary science teachers to develop consensus maps for the science curriculum. The district’s efforts with Atlas Rubicon provided a baseline for these curriculum decisions. Teachers, next year, can work on their maps to make that curriculum their own. This gives us a guaranteed and viable curriculum for science in the elementary schools. Ms. Ford reported that as part of this, our libraries are going through the old science books and those that have good and accurate information will be placed in classroom libraries. Ms. Ford also reported that a milestone has been passed as we did our first technology survey via the intranet email, which is a first for Berlin.

 

Mr. Czuchta reported that the folding doors at Griswold School and Willard School have been approved by the Council and in the process of being ordered for installation. Mr. Czuchta reported that the boiler bid at the high school was awarded. Mr. Czuchta also reported that authority was granted from the State to move forward with the bid for the roof at the high school.

 

Ms. Erickson reported that on Monday, June 5, 2006, at 6 p.m. there will be a memorial tree planting in honor of Thomas Manchesi, a Berlin High School student who died last fall.

 

Mr. Puzio reported on his attendance at the CABE conference on April 27, 2006 concerning Wellness. Mr. Puzio also reported that on June 1, 2006 at 6:30 p.m. Hubbard School will be hosting an art exhibition.

 

Ms. Hartel reported that the Leadership, Accountability and Measurement Committee meeting for May 9, 2006 has been postponed. Ms. Hartel reported on the last meeting held indicating the committee began work on developing the review/evaluation processes for the Superintendent and for the Board. Ms. Hartel will be putting together more information regarding these two items.

Berlin Board of Education Minutes

May 8, 2006

 

 

Mr. Richards thanked Ms. Erickson for standing in for him for the Guidance Director search. Mr. Richards also reported on his travel to Dover, New Hampshire to meet with the principal candidate for Willard School. Lastly, Mr. Richards reported that the Resources and Capacity-building Committee met last week as did the Council, which will be reported further in the meeting.

 

Mr. Brochu reported that on May 24, 2006 from 2:00 – 6:00 P.M. CABE is presenting a seminar entitled Data Driven School Improvement Strategies at the Hawthorne Inn. Anyone interested in attending should contact the administration. Mr. Brochu also reported on May 17, 2006 at 4:00 p.m. there will be a tree planting ceremony at the CABE office in Wethersfield in recognition of its 100^th anniversary of the organization. Mr. Brochu also reported that with the many position searches we are involved in it is extremely important that Board members check their schedules well in advance to make sure they can attend the meetings. If they are unable to attend, the should contact Dr. Cicchetti, another board member or Mr. Brochu to make sure there is Board representation. Mr. Brochu indicated it is important that the Board participate in this process.

 

III. STUDENT PRESENTATION – CATHERINE M. MCGEE MIDDLE SCHOOL

 

Principal of McGee Middle School Brian Benigni and Dean of Students James Sachs presented the Board with a handout entitled Student and Teacher Perspectives on Catherine M. McGee Middle School with a Focus Group of Berlin High School Freshmen 2005 – 2006 as well as shared a video of the focus group of current BHS ninth grade students. Mr. Benigni reported that a cross section of fifteen students were invited back to McGee and asked a series of questions regarding their experiences at McGee Middle School to determine where the school has shown success and areas in need of improvement in an effort to create an optimum learning environment. The session was videotaped, viewed and then discussed by school personnel and the PTO. Teachers and parents were also surveyed and asked to reflect upon similar areas as the focus group. These surveys were contained in the handout provided. These results were tabulated, graphed and compared among the three groups. Mr. Benigni and Mr. Sachs shared the survey results from the McGee parents, students, and teachers and shared parts of the videotape dealing with the student focus group discussion questions. The initiative for this focus group was a recommendation made at the Harvard Change Leadership Training attended by Mr. Benigni and Mr. Sachs last November.

 

IV. AUDIENCE OF CITIZENS

 

Donna Bovee, 85 Steepleview Drive, Berlin, Connecticut, chairperson of the Berlin PAC, addressed the Board concerning the Town budget and the Town Council’s meeting tomorrow night and what she expects from the Board of Education dealing with the cuts that are coming, which she feels will be severe. Ms. Bovee asked the Board of Education to consider putting back into the budget charges for certain outside organizations to be saved for education; however, Ms. Bovee does not believe that any town departments should be charged for use of schools, such as Parks and Recreation and nor should Parks and Recreation charge the schools. Ms. Bovee asked the Board to take a look at this year’s expenses, with two months to go, and determine if any spending controls can be put into place now that minimally affect current services that can offset some of the tax increase. Ms. Bovee asked that if there are options on the table for additional monies, i.e. grants, etc., that we need to be aggressive and open to everyone’s ideas. Ms. Bovee also asked that the Board look at non-budgeted items that may have been spent this year and to determine if they are in next year’s numbers can they be pulled out as part

Berlin Board of Education Minutes

May 8, 2006

 

of the reduction in costs. Ms. Bovee asked that the Board of Education and the Town Council work together after listening last Tuesday night to the citizens of the town. Mr. Bovee expressed her trust in the Board of Education, as well as in this Town Council.

V. CONSENT AGENDA

A. Approval of Minutes

1. Regular Meeting of April 24, 2006

MOTION FOR CONSIDERATION: MOVE to approve the minutes of the regular meeting of April 24, 2006 as presented.

2. Special Meeting of April 11, 2006

MOTION FOR CONSIDERATION: MOVE to approve the minutes of the special meeting of April 11, 2006 as presented.

B. Payment of Bills – Period ending April 30, 2006

MOTION FOR CONSIDERATION: MOVE that the bills for the period ending April 30, 2006, including payroll totaling $2,485,090.82, of which Town is $2,422,345.85, Federal is $56,751.57, Building Use is $222.19, and Afternoon Adventures is $5,771.21, listed for payment or already paid for in accordance with standard fiscal procedure be approved for payment.

Moved by Mr. Richards, seconded by Ms. Rochette, to approve the consent agenda as presented.

FAVOR: ALL

MOTION CARRIED: 7:0

VI. PERSONNEL

A. Resignation

Ms. Susan Ford presented the notice of Mr. Kevin Jameson’s intention to resign as teacher of Integrated Language Arts at Catherine M. McGee Middle School, effective June 30, 2006.

 

Moved by Ms. O’Donnell-Moss, seconded by Ms. Mancini, to accept the resignation of Mr. Kevin Jameson, teacher of Integrated Language Arts at Catherine M. McGee Middle School, effective June 30, 2006. Also to thank him for the ten years of service he has provided to educating the youth of Berlin and to wish him well in his future endeavors.

FAVOR: ALL

MOTION CARRIED: 7:0

B. Request for Childrearing Leave

Ms. Susan Ford presented the request of Mr. Richard Peronace, Jr., teacher of Social Studies at Berlin High School, to take a childrearing leave for the 2006 – 2007 school year.

Berlin Board of Education Minutes

May 8, 2006

 

Moved by Ms. Mancini, seconded by Ms. Erickson, to approve the request of Mr. Richard Peronace, Jr., for a childrearing leave for the 2006-2007 school year.

FAVOR: ALL

MOTION CARRIED: 7:0

VII. INFORMATION AND REPORTS

A. Status of the Board of Education’s Adopted Budget for 2006-07

 

Mr. John Richards, Chairperson of the Resources and Capacity-building Committee, provided Board members with an update regarding the status of the Board’s Adopted Budget for 2006-07. Mr. Richards reported on the results of the discussion held last Tuesday, prior to the Town Council’s meeting on May 10. The Resources Committee met and considered items that were presented by the administration. Mr. Richards reminded Board members of the $150,000.00 reduction in the Operating Budget made prior to referendum. This reduction has been addressed through transfers in special education tuition as some students have been brought back to the district. Mr. Richards reported on other possible areas for reduction, including staffing based on lower than anticipated enrollments (kindergarten) and class sizes (second grade). Mr. Richards shared his thoughts on the impact of reductions based on the amount set by the Council, ranging from $300,000 to $900,000. Mr. Brochu indicated, in fairness, that there has been no indication regarding the size of the reduction and that cuts this large are highly unlikely. Mr. Richards indicated how damaging this could be to our existing programs, and what the Board and district would like to accomplish in the future will depend on the size of the cuts.

B. PowerPoint Presentation on Griswold School’s Partnership with New Britain High School

Students and teachers from Griswold Elementary School and New Britain High School presented information as well as a PowerPoint presentation related to their partnered learning activities this year. They were awarded a Pupil Partners Mini-Grant by the Capital Region Education Council, funded by the State Department of Education, for the purpose of promoting diversity between urban and suburban schools while promoting educational excellence. The teacher planners of this grant were Anita M. Skutnik, Ceramic Arts instructor at NBHS and Griswold School first grade teacher, Amy Kulak. Also participating were Griswold first grade teachers Ms. Nicole Boutot, Mrs. Jamie Beckman, Mrs. Helen Hastings; Mr. Richard Hudson, third grade teacher; Ms. Nicole Artemisia, art teacher; and Mrs. Christina Reilly-Fazzina, music teacher.

Students presenting from Griswold School were: Nathan Graves, Andrew Luczak, Quintin Meyer, Hannah Lavoie, Cassandra Pagliaruli, Brooke Strobino, Kyra Daigle, Cara Johnson and Bridget Fox. Students presenting from New Britain High School were: Marta Dabrowski, Mary Dubrosky, Alysia Feducia and Krilies Melendez.

Berlin Board of Education Minutes

May 8, 2006

 

C. English Language Learners (ELL) Report

 

Director of Curriculum and Instruction, Susan Ford, reviewed the status of the 2005-2006 English as a Second Language program with an emphasis on the high school program. Ms. Ford introduced Abigail Hunting, ELL teacher at the high school, who spoke of her experience teaching the ELL students. A focus group video was shown interviewing students from Brown University to illustrate what it is like to be an ELL student in a high school.

 

Ms. Ford gave a PowerPoint presentation outlining BICS (Basic Interpersonal Communication Skills) and CALP (Cognitive Academic Language Proficiency); the four stages students go through to achieve second language acquisition; and the factors that influence second language acquisition. Ms. Ford discussed the goals of ELLs, basic conditions of language development and the number of students in the individual schools speaking a language other than English.

 

Ms. Ford explained that it is very difficult to separate student needs with respect to Special Education, language, and language acquisition. Ms. Ford reported that the district is making wonderful progress and that she is very proud of what the Ms. Hunting and the tutors are doing. Both Ms. Ford and Ms. Hunting answered questions from Board members.

 

VIII. RECOMMENDED ACTION

A. Beginning Educator Support Team (BEST) Candidates

 

Director of Curriculum and Instruction, Susan Ford, presented the following candidates for certification in the BEST program: Jim Arnold, Nicole Artemisia, Laurie Averill, Cindy Botticello, Bob Burke, Diane Cleary, Claire Cloukey, Amanda Gagnon, Sandrine Grave, Helen Hastings, John Line, Steve Matyczyk, Lisa Michetti, Lisa Orabi, Chris Reilly-Fazzina, Chris Strickland, and Barbara Ventura. Once trained, these teachers will be eligible to serve as cooperating teachers for student teachers and mentors for our new hires. A memo from Ms. Ford, listing the teachers with their school and assignment, was provided.

Moved by Ms. O’Donnell-Moss, seconded by Ms. Mancini, to approve the Beginning Educator Support Team (BEST) candidates as presented.

 

FAVOR: ALL

MOTION CARRIED: 7:0

Berlin Board of Education Minutes

May 8, 2006

 

IX. EXECUTIVE SESSION

 

At 9:04 p.m., a motion was made by Ms. Rochette, seconded by Mr. Richards, to go into Executive Session to discuss documents relating to negotiations with aides and to discuss a board member’s performance of board responsibilities.

FAVOR: ALL

MOTION CARRIED: 7:0

Discussion topics were:

A. Negotiations with Aides: In addition to the Board, Director of Business Operations Roman Czuchta was present until 9:17 P.M. for this discussion.

B. Discussion Regarding a Board Member’s Performance of Board Responsibilities

At 9:49 p.m., a motion was made by Mr. Richards, seconded by Ms. Hartel, to leave Executive Session.

FAVOR: ALL

MOTION CARRIED: 7:0

X. ADJOURNMENT

Moved by Mr. Richards, seconded by Mr. Puzio, to adjourn the meeting at 9:50p.m.

FAVOR: ALL

MOTION CARRIED: 7:0

Respectfully submitted,

Michelle Hartel, Secretary

05/10/2006 (Special Meeting)

BERLIN BOARD OF EDUCATION

May 10, 2006

MINUTES

SPECIAL MEETING

Attendance: Gary Brochu

Julie Erickson Absent

Michelle Hartel Absent

Diane Mancini

Kathleen O’Donnell-Moss Arrived at 7:30 p.m.

Christopher Puzio

Anthony Recck

John Richards

Rachel Rochette

Also in attendance: Superintendent of Schools Dr. Michael Cicchetti; and Willard School Principal candidate Anne Watson

I. CALL TO ORDER

Gary Brochu called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. in the Board of Education meeting room at 238 Kensington Road, Berlin, CT.

II. EXECUTIVE SESSION

 

At 6:05 p.m. a motion was made by Ms. Rochette, seconded by Ms. Mancini, to go into executive session to interview principal candidate Anne Watson. Also present during the executive session was Dr. Michael Cicchetti, Superintendent of Schools and Principal candidate Anne Watson.

FAVOR: ALL

MOTION CARRIED: 6:0

At 7:55 p.m. the candidate was excused while the Board deliberated. At 8:10 p.m. a motion was made by Mr. Richards, seconded by Ms. O’Donnell-Moss, to return to regular session.

FAVOR: ALL

MOTION CARRIED: 6:0

 

III. RECOMMENDED ACTION

A. Appointment – Willard School Principal

 

At 8:1l p.m. a motion was made by Mr. Recck, seconded by Ms. Mancini, that the Board of Education appoint Anne Watson to the position of principal of Emma Hart Willard School effective July 1, 2006.

 

FAVOR: ALL

MOTION CARRIED: 7:0

 

IV. ADJOURNMENT

Moved by Mr. Recck, seconded by Ms. Rochette, to adjourn the meeting at 8:12 p.m.

FAVOR: ALL

MOTION CARRIED: 6:0

Respectfully submitted,

Anthony Recck and John Richards

 

Regular Meeting Minutes - January, 8 2007

BERLIN BOARD OF EDUCATION

January 8, 2007

MINUTES

REGULAR MEETING

Attendance: Gary Brochu

Julie Erickson

Michelle Hartel

Diane Mancini Arrived at 7:10 p.m.

Kathleen O’Donnell-Moss

Christopher Puzio

Anthony Recck

John Richards

Rachel Rochette

 

Also in attendance: Superintendent of Schools Dr. Michael Cicchetti; Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction Rena Klebart; Director of Business Operations Roman Czuchta; Director of Pupil Personnel Services Margaret Butler; Principal of Griswold School Laurie Gjerpen; Principal of McGee Middle School Brian Benigni; Principal of Willard School Robert J. Sullivan II; and Principal of Berlin High School George Synnott.

 

I. CALL TO ORDER

 

Mr. Brochu called the meeting to order at 7:04 p.m. in the Board of Education (“the Board”) meeting room at 238 Kensington Road, Berlin, CT. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited. A Moment of Silence was observed.

II. BOARD AND ADMINISTRATIVE COMMUNICATIONS

Ms. Rochette reported on her attendance at Griswold’s Family Gathering the Friday before the holiday break and commended the teachers and students on how well behaved the students were. Ms. Rochette also reported on her attendance at the Madrigal Feaste and commented on a phenomenal job done by the students.

 

Mr. Recck reported on his attendance at the national competition for cheerleading in Florida and indicated the B squad cheerleaders came in first place. Mr. Recck also remarked that a majority of Berlin’s students at the cheerleading competition were also on the high honor roll at McGee Middle School.

 

Ms. O’Donnell-Moss reported on her attendance at both the high school and middle school wrestling tournaments held this past Saturday. Ms. O’Donnell-Moss provided the Board with an article concerning rigor.

 

Mr. Richards updated the Board on the meeting he recently attended at the Capitol Regional Education Council (CREC) where representatives from CABE, CAPSS and CREC came together. Mr. Richards will share the goals from this meeting as soon as the list is finalized. He also praised the BHS students who performed at the Madrigal Feaste.

 

Ms. Butler reported that enrollment for preschool screening has begun and approximately 85 youngsters are enrolled so far.

Berlin Board of Education Minutes

January 8, 2007

 

 

Mr. Czuchta reported he will be attending an all-day conference on Friday, January 12, 2007, sponsored by the Connecticut Association of School Business Officials dealing with school safety issues.

 

Dr. Cicchetti reported on a flyer distributed to the Board concerning the UpBeat adult training weekend. Dr. Cicchetti reported on an article Eric Carbone, Assistant Principal at Griswold School, provided concerning a program wherein students from Jefferson Elementary School in New Britain come to Griswold School. Dr. Cicchetti reported on a complimentary email received from Alison Schultz, Willard’s liaison to the Berlin Education Council, regarding the recent meeting of the Berlin-Newington-Rocky Hill-Wethersfield consortium on youth violence and vandalism. Dr. Cicchetti also echoed the compliments to the students and staff who worked to present the high school’s Madrigal Feaste this past Sunday.

 

Mr. Brochu reported on his attendance at the CABE Area Legislative breakfast at the Legislative Office Building. Mr. Brochu indicated the legislature is seriously going to look at how they bond school projects, and it seems very clear that they are going to be stricter on priorities.

 

III. AUDIENCE OF CITIZENS

Nothing to report.

 

IV. CONSENT AGENDA

A. Approval of Minutes

1. Regular Meeting of December 11, 2006

 

MOTION FOR CONSIDERATION: MOVE to approve the minutes of the regular meeting of December 11, 2006 as presented.

 

B. Payment of Bills – Period ending December 31, 2006

 

MOTION FOR CONSIDERATION: MOVE that the bills for the period ending December 31, 2006, including payroll, totaling $2,828,473.70, of which Town is $2,765,549.88, Federal is $55,035.92, Building Use is $1,348.09, and Afternoon Adventures is $6,539.81, listed for payment or already paid for in accordance with standard fiscal procedure be approved for payment.

Moved by Mr. Richards, seconded by Mr. Recck, to approve the consent agenda as presented.

FAVOR: ALL

MOTION CARRIED: 8:0

 

V. INFORMATION AND REPORTS

A. Activity Fund Reports

1. Berlin High School Enterprise Fund – Period ending Nov. 30, 2006

2. Berlin Public Schools Activity Fund – Period ending Nov. 30, 2006

3. Cafeteria Fund – Period ending Nov. 30, 2006

Berlin Board of Education Minutes

January 8, 2007

 

No motion is necessary for these reports. These were noted with interest.

 

B. Update on School Safety

Berlin Police Chief Paul Fitzgerald was in attendance and, along with Dr. Cicchetti, updated Board members on school safety topics including police presence in the schools; the D.A.R.E. Program; the recent meeting of the Berlin-Newington-Rocky Hill-Wethersfield consortium on youth violence and vandalism; a recent school safety conference attended by both police and school personnel; and a proposal to institute a School Resource Officer for the current school year. Chief Fitzgerald indicated it is his intention to continue to work with the administration, establish a School Resource Officer program and aggressively pursue for the money to fund it. Chief Fitzgerald indicated that he has been working with the mayor to see if there are any existing grants; however, there appear to be none. Chief Fitzgerald intends to speak with the Town Council, at its next meeting, and inform them of his desire to have a School Resource Officer in the school district as soon as possible.

 

The principals shared their observations of having police presence in the schools. Chief Fitzgerald responded to questions from the Board.

 

VI. RECOMMENDED ACTION

A. Policy Revisions – Second Readings and Recommended Adoption

1. Policy IICA – Instruction – Field Trips

2. Policy EEA – Transportation – Extra-Curricular/Field Trips

 

At the December 11 meeting, Board members participated in a first reading of revisions to Board Policies on field trips. Accompanying the agenda were the proposed revised documents for Board Policy IICA-Instruction-Field Trips and Board Policy EEA-Transportation-Extra-Curricular/Field Trips for the Board’s consideration and action.

 

Moved by Ms. Rochette, seconded by Ms. O’Donnell-Moss, to approve the revisions to Board Policies IICA and EEA as presented.

FAVOR: ALL

MOTION CARRIED: 8:0

 

VII. 2007-2008 PROPOSED BUDGET PRESENTATION

A. Superintendent’s Budget Presentation

 

Superintendent Cicchetti presented his proposed 2007-08 budget to the Board, which was distributed to all present. Dr. Cicchetti noted that his cover letter in the budget document provides pertinent information for understanding the budget request. The presentation was guided by the budget priorities that were identified this fall by the Board and Administrative Council. This was the first overview of the budget and Dr. Cicchetti indicated he was pleased that it is his second year presenting the budget to the Board. He recognized and thanked the administration team and staff in each of the schools. Dr. Cicchetti also recognized significant support from Roman Czuchta, Margaret Butler and Rena Klebart.

Berlin Board of Education Minutes

January 8, 2007

 

Dr. Cicchetti reported that the proposed budget has an overall increase of $1,701,220.00 or 5.19% from last year, which represents a 4.638% increase to maintain the current level of

services and a 0.548% increase for new staff/programs. Dr. Cicchetti commented that the 5.19% request is approximately 2% lower than last year’s request. The proposed budget reflects what he feels are priority needs for improving student achievement and success, which is the Board’s overall goal focus area. Dr. Cicchetti outlined the components of the increase in the Operational Budget to maintain the current level of services. Mr. Czuchta reported that the reduction in equipment does not mean a need for less equipment, but rather, the principals have looked at what they have to work with and have made some priority choices, reallocating some of the money for textbooks, supplies, etc., items they have identified as needs. Dr. Cicchetti reported that the request for contractual obligations for certified and non-certified staff and benefit costs associated with collective bargaining agreements were the major budget drivers. Unlike last year’s 1.40% increase in utilities, this year’s increase of .28% is due largely to the Town’s locking in of electrical generation rates last year. Mr. Richards commented that this is the portion of the overall budget increase, and is not the utility line item percentage increase.

 

Dr. Cicchetti reviewed the New Staff/Programs Requests – originally a 1.61% increase, but offset by approximately $350,000 in funds through reassignment/reallocation of existing staff, grants, and anticipated retirements – which represents a net 0.548% increase to the budget as well as the New Staff/Programs Requests Considered but Not Included. Dr. Cicchetti cited national school improvement leader Michael Fullan’s belief that districts need to focus on literacy, numeracy, and emotional intelligence.

Using the budget priorities as a framework, Dr. Cicchetti reviewed each of the new staff/program requests as they relate to the budget priorities. Enrollment projections were reviewed as they relate to staffing requests.

 

Dr. Cicchetti noted that the gap between Berlin’s per pupil spending and the State average per pupil spending is $1,482.00. In order for Berlin to meet the State “average” for per pupil spending, an additional $4.75 million would need to be added to the budget. This would equate to an additional 14.5% increase above and beyond the 5.19% requested.

 

As the Board moves forward in their budget development process, they will have individual presentations from the elementary, middle school and high school principals, as well as Mrs. Butler on special education and Mr. Czuchta on some of the district programs. These presentations will allow more in-depth discussion and questions. Dr. Cicchetti, on behalf of the entire administrative team, conveyed his support of the Board in providing information that would help them finalize their 2007-08 budget for submission to the Town.

 

Mr. Richards directed several questions regarding the proposed budget. With regard to equipment valued less than $5,000 in the operating budget, he requested a history of what has been asked for and what was settled for.

 

Ms. Hartel thanked Dr. Cicchetti for the overview and remarked the proposed budget is a testament of how closely the administrative team and Dr. Cicchetti worked together in preparing same.

 

 

Berlin Board of Education Minutes

January 8, 2007

 

 

Mr. Recck also directed several questions regarding the proposed budget. With regard to utilities, Mr. Recck requested how this year’s budget will impact next year’s in the event utilities come under budget this year. Mr. Recck also requested an expanded rationale for the Human Resources Director, as he would like to better understand how this would free up time currently being expended by central office staff.

 

VIII. ADJOURNMENT

Moved by Mr. Recck, seconded by Ms. Rochette, to adjourn the meeting at 8:57 p.m.

FAVOR: ALL

MOTION CARRIED: 8:0

Respectfully submitted,

 

John M. Richards, Secretary, Berlin Board of Education

(JMR: bd original 1/9/07; JMR revised 1/18/07; MTC revised 1/18/07)

Regular Meeting Minutes - February 12, 2007

BERLIN BOARD OF EDUCATION

February 12, 2007

MINUTES

REGULAR MEETING

Attendance: Gary Brochu

Julie Erickson

Michelle Hartel

Diane Mancini

Kathleen O’Donnell-Moss

Christopher Puzio

Anthony Recck Arrived at 7:22 p.m.

John Richards

Rachel Rochette

Also in attendance: Superintendent of Schools Dr. Michael Cicchetti; Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction Rena Klebart; Director of Business Operations Roman Czuchta; Director of Pupil Personnel Services Margaret Butler; Principal of Griswold School Laurie Gjerpen; Principal of McGee Middle School Brian Benigni; Principal of Willard School Robert J. Sullivan II; and Principal of Berlin High School George Synnott.

I. CALL TO ORDER

Mr. Brochu called the meeting to order at 7:05 p.m. in the Board of Education (“the Board”) meeting room at 238 Kensington Road, Berlin, CT. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by students Lindsey Brochu and Morgan Kuel. A moment of silence was observed.

Lindsey and Morgan presented the Board with baked goods on behalf of Brownie Troop No. 6392 to thank the Board of Education for all they do for the school district.

II. BOARD AND ADMINISTRATIVE COMMUNICATIONS

Ms. Erickson reported on her attendance this past Friday evening at the UpBeat Training Weekend, indicating it was a wonderful opportunity to see the UpBeat Committee at its best. Ms. Erickson thanked Ms. O’Donnell-Moss for a great job facilitating the discussion the Board had with the parents, the school committee and police officers regarding Berlin’s facility plan. Ms. Erickson has gathered some literature, which she has made available to the Board, concerning education from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce regarding school choice in preparing students for the global market place.

 

Ms. Rochette reported on her attendance on February 7, 2007 at the welcome reception held for Jen Derick, Assistant Principal at Willard School.

Ms. O’Donnell-Moss reported on her attendance at the UpBeat Training Weekend as well as her attendance at the North West Conference Wrestling Championship, in which Berlin placed second. Ms. O’Donnell-Moss reported on the Communication and Alignment Committee meeting held on January 22, 2007.

Mr. Puzio reported on his attendance at the UpBeat Training Weekend this past Friday night.

Ms. Hartel reported on her attendance at the welcome reception for Jen Derick. Ms. Hartel reported on the phenomenal job performed by the substitute drivers from New Britain Transportation when the regular driver was out sick for a week.

Mr. Richards reported on his attendance at the UpBeat Training Weekend this past Friday night for the presentation of the facilities plan. Mr. Richards reported the Resources and Capacity Building Committee met on Monday, January 29, and this evening and will be proposing adjustments to the Superintendent’s budget for consideration.

Ms. Klebart reported on her attendance at the Upbeat Training Weekend, indicating she was amazed at not only the organization but by the contributions the organization makes to the community and school district.

Dr. Cicchetti thanked Dave Evon and Roman Czuchta for their work in putting together the PowerPoint presentation and George Synnott and Matt Pace for escorting citizens through the high school in preparation of the UpBeat facilities presentation. Dr. Cicchetti reported on his attendance this past Sunday and Monday at the College Board Conference in Boston for the Annual Regional Forum. Dr. Cicchetti reported that George Synnott, Rena Klebart, Laurie Gjerpen, Brian Benigni and Roszena Sutton have worked to define rigor and have presented their findings, as a team, at individual faculty meetings. Dr. Cicchetti remarked it is a very powerful message and he applauds them for the quality work and for their time. Dr. Cicchetti complimented George Synnott and Thomas Warburton on the National Honor Society Induction Ceremony held this past Friday.

Mr. Brochu reported on his attendance at the welcome reception held for Jen Derick this past Wednesday and the UpBeat Training Weekend on Saturday. Mr. Brochu reported on his attendance at the high school orientation. Mr. Brochu informed the Board that this year’s CABE convention will take place November 16 and 17, 2007 at the Mystic Marriott, and there is an opportunity for the Board to present a workshop.

III. AUDIENCE OF CITIZENS

Nothing to report.

IV. PERSONNEL

1. Resignations

Dr. Cicchetti presented the notice of Ms. Susan Larson’s intention to resign as teacher of science at Catherine M. McGee Middle School, effective January 26, 2007.

Moved by Ms. O’Donnell-Moss, seconded by Mr. Puzio, to accept the resignation of Ms. Susan Larson, teacher of science at Catherine M. McGee Middle School, effective January 26, 2007. Also to thank her for the service she has provided to educating the youth of Berlin and to wish her well in her future endeavors.

FAVOR: ALL

MOTION CARRIED: 8:0

Dr. Cicchetti presented the notice of Ms. Jacqueline Cruickshanks’ intention to resign as teacher of technology education at Catherine M. McGee Middle school, effective January 30, 2007.

Moved by Ms. Rochette, seconded by Ms. Mancini, to accept the resignation of Ms. Jacqueline Cruickshanks, teacher of technology education at Catherine M. McGee Middle School, effective January 26, 2007. Also to thank her for the service she has provided to educating the youth of Berlin and to wish her well in her future endeavors.

Ms. Hartel questioned whether the effective date of resignation was January 30, 2007 as presented by Dr. Cicchetti or January 26, 2007 as stated in the motion.

Moved by Ms. Rochette, seconded by Ms. Mancini, to accept the resignation of Ms. Jacqueline Cruickshanks, teacher of technology education at Catherine M. McGee Middle School, effective January 30, 2007. Also to thank her for the service she has provided to educating the youth of Berlin and to wish her well in her future endeavors.

FAVOR: ALL

MOTION CARRIED: 8:0

Add Item of Personnel:

Moved by Mr. Richards, seconded by Mr. Recck, to add an item of personnel to the agenda.

FAVOR: ALL

MOTION CARRIED: 8:0

Michelle Hartel has tendered her resignation to the Board citing personal and professional obligations.

V. CONSENT AGENDA

1. Approval of Minutes

1. Regular Meeting of January 22, 2007

2. Special Meeting of January 16, 2007

3. Special Meeting of January 24, 2007

B. Payment of Bills – Period ending January 31, 2007

C. Overnight Field Trip Request – McGee Middle School

Principal Brian Benigni is requesting permission to allow McGee and Berlin High School students in grades 7-12, along with chaperones, to travel to Boston, Massachusetts on March 21-24, 2007 to participate in the FIRST Robotics Boston Regional Competition being held at Boston University. Berlin’s FIRST Robotics team will compete with the robot they planned and built over the last six weeks. The itinerary for the trip was enclosed in the Board’s packet.

Moved by Ms. Erickson, seconded by Mr. Richards, to approve the consent agenda as presented.

FAVOR: ALL

MOTION CARRIED: 8:0

VI. INFORMATION AND REPORTS

1. Activity Fund Reports

   1. Berlin High School Enterprise Fund – Period ending December 31, 2006

   2. Berlin Public Schools Activity Fund – Period ending December 31, 2006

   3. Cafeteria Fund – Period ending December 31, 2006

No motion is necessary for these reports. Please note with interest.

Mr. Czuchta noted that the reports are in a new format, including a column that shows the relative position a year ago and a standing cell that shows the end of last year’s financial status.

1. Introduction of New School Resource Officer

Berlin High School Principal George Synnott introduced Officer Paul Germain, who officially began his assignment on February 5, and reported Officer Germain is off to a great start. Officer Germain was introduced to staff at the February monthly faculty meeting and immediately began making contacts with staff and students. Mr. Synnott feels that Officer Germain has the capacity to develop positive relationships with students and that his presence in the school community will be very productive and contribute to a safe and secure environment. Officer Germain summarized his training and experience as a police officer and shared his experiences from his first week at Berlin High School.

1. Online Application Demonstration

For the past year, a Human Resources Study Group comprised of administrative council members has been working to implement an online application system. With financial support in this year’s Board of Education budget, the administrative council moved forward with this initiative in late fall and are ready to launch the program in time for the spring recruitment and hiring process. Administrators and support staff, Nancy Boccuzzio, presented a demonstration of the program, with the assistance (via conference call and virtual demo) of Mr. Abe Reese, who is owner/CEO of General ASP, the company that provides the product. After the presentation, Mr. Reese and Ms. Boccuzzio answered questions from the Board regarding the product. Board members were very positive about the implementation of this online application process.

VII. RECOMMENDED ACTION

1. Adoption of Proposed Board of Education Budget for 2007-2008

Mr. Richards, Chairman of the Educational Resources Committee, indicated the Committee had met, and he would give its recommendation regarding the 2007-08 budget to the Board. Mr. Richards reviewed the information on pages 7 and 8 of the Superintendent’s Proposed 2007-08 Budget. Mr. Richards reported that there is a recommendation from the administration that the figure for utilities be reduced by $45,000 due to locking in the generation rate paid and that the increase in utilities appears to be 5% and not 11% as previously thought when the budget was originally developed in December.

Mr. Richards reported that in consideration of the Excess Cost Funding and the Governor’s proposed budget suggesting Excess Cost reimbursement at 100%, the district would net a savings of $62,000, which brings tuition from an increase of $9,421 to a decrease of $52,579.

Mr. Richards remarked that it is the recommendation of the Resources and Capacity Committee to adjust/increase equipment to $17,000, representing the same amount budgeted for the 2006-07 school year.

In summary, Mr. Richards reported the Operational Budget would be a proposed $90,000 less than what Superintendent Cicchetti’s original proposal was, based on these three adjustments. Mr. Richards reported the recommendation from the Committee for the New Staff/Programs Requests is as listed on page 8 in the amount of $179,768.

The Educational Resources Committee is recommending that the budget, as presented by Superintendent Cicchetti, with these three adjustments, be approved. The total increase would be 4.91% or $1,611,200.

Moved by Mr. Richards, seconded by Ms. Rochette, to approve the Board of Education 2007-2008 Operating Budget at a level of $34,414,578.

A discussion took place regarding the Operating Budget, the rationale for the position of the Human Resources Director and special education tuition.

FAVOR: ALL

MOTION CARRIED: 9:0; including President Gary Brochu

Moved by Mr. Richards, seconded by Mr. Recck, to approve the Board of Education 2007-2008 site and building requests at $733,100.

FAVOR: ALL

MOTION CARRIED: 9:0; including President Gary Brochu

Moved by Mr. Richards, seconded by Ms. O’Donnell-Moss, to approve the Board of Education 2007-2008 capital budget requests at $516,600 as recommended by the Administration.

FAVOR: ALL

MOTION CARRIED: 9:0; including President Gary Brochu

VIII. ADJOURNMENT

Moved by Mr. Recck, seconded by Mr. Puzio, to adjourn the meeting at 9:08 p.m.

FAVOR: ALL

MOTION CARRIED: 8:0

Respectfully submitted,

John M. Richards, Secretary, Berlin Board of Education

Regular Meeting Minutes - March 12, 2007

BERLIN BOARD OF EDUCATION
March 12, 2007
MINUTES
REGULAR MEETING

Attendance: Gary Brochu
Julie Erickson
Diane Mancini Absent
Kathleen O’Donnell-Moss
Christopher Puzio
Anthony Recck
John Richards Arrived at 7:15 p.m.
Rachel Rochette

Also in attendance: Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction Rena Klebart; Director of Business Operations Roman Czuchta; Director of Pupil Personnel Services Margaret Butler; Principal of Griswold School Laurie Gjerpen; Principal of McGee Middle School Brian Benigni; Principal of Willard School Robert J. Sullivan II; and Principal of Berlin High School George Synnott.

I. CALL TO ORDER

Mr. Brochu called the meeting to order at 7:07 p.m. in the Board of Education (“the Board”) meeting room at 238 Kensington Road, Berlin, CT. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited and a moment of silence was observed.

II. BOARD AND ADMINISTRATIVE COMMUNICATIONS

Ms. Erickson reported on her attendance this past Wednesday, along with Mr. Brochu, Ms. O’Donnell-Moss and Ms. Rochette, at CABE’s Day-on-the-Hill at the State Capital. Ms. Erickson remarked it was a pleasure having Governor Jodi Rell speak to the Connecticut Association for Boards of Education and present her initiative for education as well as having the opportunity to speak with local representatives. Ms. Erickson has information to share with anyone who is interested.

Ms. Rochette echoed Ms. Erickson’s comments regarding her attendance at CABE’s Day-on-the-Hill this past Wednesday and indicated it was a good opportunity to speak with the legislature.

Mr. Recck apologized for the delay in distributing the January 3, 2007 special meeting minutes to the Board. Mr. Recck reported on the meeting of the Executive Panel for the PJ case, which met two weeks ago, reporting it was the last time the panel met before completing its final report. Mr. Recck reported the panel has come to the conclusion that the State of Connecticut has not reached the progress that it wanted on inclusion but will not be coming back unless the law changes. Mr. Recck will provide a copy of the final report to the Board once it is released.

Ms. O’Donnell-Moss echoed both Ms. Erickson’s comments and Ms. Rochette’s regarding her attendance at CABE’s Day-on-the-Hill this past Wednesday. Ms. O’Donnell-Moss reported on her attendance on Friday, February 23, 2007, at the interesting round-table discussion held by Senator Joseph Lieberman at the State Capital concerning the reauthorization of NCLB. Ms. O’Donnell-Moss reported the Branford Board of Education has approached her, for the second time, requesting Berlin’s Board of Education sit in on one of its Board meetings and then Branford sit in on one of Berlin’s meetings as Branford saw Berlin’s presentation at the CABE conference and was very impressed with what Berlin is accomplishing.

Mr. Puzio reported on March 2, 2007 he had the opportunity to visit Hubbard School and read to the first and second grades and discuss good character. Mr. Puzio reported on his attendance at the first round of interviews for the position of Hubbard School principal.

Mr. Richards reported on his meeting with the teachers (BEA) this date regarding the L Savings Account. Mr. Richards reported a third session will take place to move from the concept to actual examples.

Ms. Butler reported on her attendance this date at the Unified Sports Tournament at the Berlin High School.

Mr. Czuchta reported the Town Council will hold a public hearing on the Technology Plan on Tuesday, March 20, 2007. This will be an opportunity for Berlin citizens to speak and ask questions of the consultant who compiled the Technology Plan.

Ms. Klebart reported on her attendance, along with Roszena Sutton, at CREC’s Minority Teacher Recruitment on Saturday, March 10, 2007. Ms. Klebart reported on the completed second round of interviews with the Administrative Council for the Hubbard School principal search. Ms. Klebart, in Dr. Cicchetti’s stead, recognized Board of Education Member Appreciation Month, extending a sincere thank you for all the work the Board has done and all the time the Board gives for the students and staff.

Mr. Brochu reported on the search process for the position of Principal of Hubbard School. Mr. Brochu reported that tomorrow night the Board is meeting with the Town Council Budget Committee.

III. AUDIENCE OF CITIZENS

Ms. Jan Zagorski, 63 Grandview Avenue, Berlin, Connecticut, addressed the Board concerning the Berlin Swim Team. Ms. Zagorski noted the Swim Team will be participating in three relays in the tournament at Wesleyan University. Ms. Zagorski reported that Andrew Thurston has qualified in two events for finals. This is Berlin’s second year and the team is doing awesome. Ms. Zagorski also reported that Robotics is next weekend.

IV. PERSONNEL

A. Retirement

Ms. Klebart presented the notice of Ms. Valerie Ireland’s intention to retire as teacher of grade 4 at Emma Hart Willard School, effective June 30, 2007.

Moved by Ms. O’Donnell-Moss, seconded by Ms. Rochette, to accept the retirement of Ms. Valerie Ireland, teacher of grade 4 at Emma Hart Willard School, effective June 30, 2007. Also to thank her for the twenty-two years of service she has provided to educating the youth of Berlin and to wish her good health and happiness in her retirement years.

FAVOR: ALL
MOTION CARRIED: 7:0, including President Gary Brochu

V. CONSENT AGENDA

A. Approval of Minutes
1. Regular Meeting of February 12, 2007

Mr. Richards requested that the portion of the minutes that reads, “The Pledge of Allegiance was led by students Lindsey Brochu and Morgan ??? (Gary will know).” be corrected to read as follows: The Pledge of Allegiance was led by students Lindsey Brochu and Morgan Kuckel. The correction was made to the minutes.

2. Special Meeting of January 3, 2007

B. Resignations

Ms. Ellen Lessard, teacher of Spanish at Berlin High School, has submitted a letter of resignation to be effective June 30, 2007.

Ms. Carolyn Robins, teacher of Spanish at Berlin High School, has submitted a letter of resignation to be effective June 30, 2007.

C. Payment of Bills – Period ending February 28, 2007

Moved by Mr. Richards, seconded by Mr. Puzio, to approve the consent agenda as now presented.

FAVOR: ALL
MOTION CARRIED: 7:0, including President Gary Brochu

VI. INFORMATION AND REPORTS

A. Activity Fund Reports
1. Berlin High School Enterprise Fund – Period ending January 31, 2007
2. Berlin Public Schools Activity Fund – Period ending January 31, 2007
3. Cafeteria Fund – Period ending January 31, 2007

No motion is necessary for these reports. Please note with interest.

B. NEASC (New England Association of Schools and Colleges) Update

Berlin High School Principal George Synnott updated the Board on the high school’s self study and preparation for the October 2007 NEASC accreditation site visit as well as answered questions from the Board. Mr. Synnott reported that the study is on schedule. Mr. Synnott reported, at this point in time, the Committee on Community Resources has filed its report, which has been approved, and within the next two months, the remainder of the reports will be filed before the faculty for approval. Although the site visit and evaluation takes place next school year in October, all reports need to be completed by May of this year. Mr. Synnott reported that the Continuous Improvement Plan at the high school has been the framework and organizing template that the various sub-committees used for the NEASC self study. The evaluation team will arrive on Sunday, October 21, for the visitation after which the team will spend three days at the school reviewing all the reports and evidence that have been compiled. Mr. Synnott reported that one of the items that still need to be completed is a collection of student work that will support all of the different standards, which are instruction, assessment, curriculum, leadership, community resources, school resources, and the mission statement. Mr. Synnott reported that the reports should be available to the Board by May.

C. Project Choice Participation for 2007-2008

The Project Choice discussion has been tabled for the next meeting.

VII. RECOMMENDED ACTION
A. Finalize School Calendar 2007-2008

Ms. Klebart noted the dates for parent conferences (one for the high school and four each for the middle school and elementary schools) and five early-release professional development days. The calendar also maintains two late arrival days for middle school and high school to support preparation for the October 2007 NEASC site visit as well as follow up on recommendations resulting from that visit. Ms. Klebart noted that considerable discussion was held regarding the five professional development days in order to balance the calendar and provide days for professional development. The days were spread throughout the calendar so there is not a cluster of days when students are out of school. Ms. Klebart also noted that the parent conferences were moved later in the year. This change was made to align more closely with the report card distribution schedule and allow teachers to use data they use for report cards while conferencing with parents.

Moved by Ms. Rochette, seconded by Ms. O’Donnell-Moss, to approve the Berlin Public Schools adopted calendar for 2007-2008 as proposed.

FAVOR: ALL
MOTION CARRIED: 7:0, including President Gary Brochu

B. Proposed School Calendar for 2008-2009

The Board was provided with the proposed 2008-2009 school calendar. It follows past guidelines with respect to the first day of school and vacation weeks. The proposed calendar was brought to the Administrative Council for review and discussion. The calendar was also reviewed by the Board’s Leadership, Accountability, and Measurement Committee at its March 5 meeting.

Moved by Ms. Erickson, seconded by Mr. Recck, to adopt the 2008-2009 Berlin Public Schools calendar as proposed.

FAVOR: ALL
MOTION CARRIED: 7:0, including President Gary Brochu

Mr. Brochu noted students are coming back to school for just a Friday after the winter break and also the calendar reflects the Berlin Fair to be held on October 10 and the correct date is October 3.

VIII. ADD ITEM TO THE AGENDA CONCERNING VACANCY ON THE BOARD

Moved by Ms. Rochette, seconded by Mr. Puzio, to add an agenda item to discuss vacancy on the Board.

FAVOR: ALL
MOTION CARRIED: 7:0, including President Gary Brochu

A discussion took place regarding the vacancy on the Board as a result of Michelle Hartel’s resignation, which has been made official.

IX. ADD ITEM TO THE AGENDA REGARDING AN UPDATE CONCERNING THE FACILITIES PLAN

Moved by Ms. Rochette, seconded by Ms. O’Donnell-Moss, to add an agenda item to discuss the Facilities Plan.

FAVOR: ALL
MOTION CARRIED: 7:0, including President Gary Brochu

Mr. Brochu reported on his meeting with Dr. Cicchetti and Mr. Czuchta last week concerning their discussion of the Facilities Plan and reported that the first item that needs to be completed to start this process moving is development of educational specifications, which will be forwarded to the Council for forwarding to the Building Commissioner. Mr. Czuchta reported on the makeup of this Committee, which will include a number of groups involved in the process. Mr. Czuchta reported that there is a very tight schedule in order to stay with the calendar for a submission to the State for June 2008. Mr. Czuchta reported that NESDEC has been contracted to help walk through the process and develop the specifications. Mr. Czuchta has spoke with NESDEC this date and NESDEC will provide a tentative calendar this Thursday to develop these specifications. Mr. Czuchta indicated NESDEC is aware of the June 1 deadline for completion of these specifications.

X. ADD ITEM TO THE AGENDA CONCERNING MCGEE MIDDLE SCHOOL FIELD TRIP

Moved by Ms. O’Donnell-Moss, seconded by Mr. Recck, to add the approval of the field trip agenda item to the agenda.

FAVOR: ALL
MOTION CARRIED: 7:0, including President Gary Brochu

The Board was provided with the field trip request of McGee Middle School Team 6B to travel to the Boston Museum of Fine Arts on Friday, March 23, 2007.

Moved by Ms. O’Donnell-Moss, seconded by Mr. Recck, to approve the field trip for Team 6B at McGee Middle School to the Boston Museum of Fine Arts.

FAVOR: ALL
MOTION CARRIED: 7:0, including President Gary Brochu

XI. ADJOURNMENT

Moved by Mr. Recck, seconded by Mr. Puzio, to adjourn the meeting at 8:10 p.m.

FAVOR: ALL
MOTION CARRIED: 7:0, including President Gary Brochu

Respectfully submitted,


John M. Richards, Secretary, Berlin Board of Education

Regular Meeting Minutes - March 26, 2007

BERLIN BOARD OF EDUCATION
March 26, 2007
MINUTES
REGULAR MEETING

Attendance: Gary Brochu
Julie Erickson
Diane Mancini
Kathleen O’Donnell-Moss
Christopher Puzio
Anthony Recck Absent
John Richards
Rachel Rochette

Also in attendance: Superintendent of Schools Dr. Michael Cicchetti; Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction Rena Klebart; Director of Business Operations Roman Czuchta; Director of Pupil Personnel Services Margaret Butler; Principal of Griswold School Laurie Gjerpen; Principal of McGee Middle School Brian Benigni; Principal of Willard School Robert J. Sullivan II; Assistant Principal of Willard School Jennifer Derick; and Principal of Berlin High School George Synnott.

I. CALL TO ORDER

Mr. Brochu called the meeting to order at 7:07 p.m. in the cafeteria of Emma Hart Willard School at 1088 Norton Road, Berlin, CT. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by student, Mary Lattarulo. A moment of silence was observed.

II. STUDENT PRESENTATION – WILLARD SCHOOL

Second grade students Nina D'Amato, Marc D'Amore, Paulina Chorzepa, Katie Garrison, Zachary Spencer, Macey Paradis, Mary Lattarulo, Brett Myskowski and Hannah Schulz presented sample project activities and journal entries from their experiences participating in the "Many Faces, Many Voices" inter-district cooperative grant with Dwight School in Hartford. Second grade teachers Karen Schroder and Mariann Collis provided an overview of the grant and the benefits of participation for Berlin’s students and classrooms.

III. BOARD AND ADMINISTRATIVE COMMUNICATIONS

Ms. Erickson reported on her attendance Tuesday night at Berlin High School’s musical, Once Upon a Mattress, congratulating the cast and crew as well as Director Robert Kelly.

Ms. Rochette reported on her attendance Tuesday night at the Town Council meeting wherein the Technology Audit was discussed and a bonding proposal passed by the Council.

Ms. O’Donnell-Moss reported the Berlin High School band will be leaving on April 11 for New Orleans, participating in a musical exchange as well as community service. Ms. O’Donnell-Moss indicated, as a part of the community service, collection boxes have been placed in each of the schools for donations of teaching supplies to be brought to New Orleans.

Mr. Puzio reported on his attendance this date at a workshop concerning Blue Ribbon Connecticut Mastery Test Diagnostic Software Testing.

Ms. Mancini reported on the recent Leadership, Accountability and Measurement Committee meeting.

Mr. Richards reported on the site visit to Griswold, Connecticut concerning the candidate for the principal position at Hubbard School. Mr. Richards reported on the second meeting held with teachers regarding the health savings program. Mr. Richards reported on his attendance at UpBeat’s Advanced Peer Leadership Training weekend held this past Saturday and Sunday in the Berlin High School Media Center as the trip to Camp Woodstock was canceled due to the snow.

Ms. Butler reported the work that is being done this year at McGee Middle School regarding reading in the content area for students who scored below basic on the Connecticut Mastery Test. This initiative was the result of McGee’s AYP status. Ms. Butler will report back to the Board next month as to how that initiative is proceeding.

Mr. Czuchta updated the Board on the educational specifications for the new high school building. Mr. Czuchta reported the position of Data Specialist has been re-advertised.

Ms. Klebart reported on a demonstration/training session conducted for the administrators concerning the on-line application system. Ms. Klebart reported on the agenda for the professional development day on March 30, 2007. Ms. Klebart reported she will be meeting with department heads in order to prepare for the Perkins Grant.

Dr. Cicchetti reported Jack Tomascak, a McGee Middle School student, will be participating in the National Geographic Spelling Bee. Dr. Cicchetti reported James Bryers has been recognized as the state’s 2007 Boys’ Golf Coach of the Year. Dr. Cicchetti reported Christina Archer, Supervisor for Art Education, presented a workshop at the National Art Education Association Conference in New York on the use of sketchbook and “free draw.”

Mr. Brochu congratulated Matt Cavedon as Governor of the YMCA Statewide Government. Mr. Brochu reported that he attended the town-wide spelling bee, sponsored by the Junior Women’s Club, serving as the Bee Master. Mr. Brochu reported on the Technology Bond. Mr. Brochu reported the Town’s budget hearing is scheduled for April 10, 2007. Mr. Brochu reported on his attendance at Willard’s PTO meeting at which he discussed the budget and facilities plan and the recent Leadership, Accountability and Measurement Committee meeting. Mr. Brochu reported on the vacancy on the Board of Education.

IV. AUDIENCE OF CITIZENS

Nothing to report.

V. PERSONNEL

A. Non-renewal of Contracts for Non-tenured Teachers

Dr. Cicchetti indicated that these non-renewals of non-tenured teachers were due to the fact that the teachers were appointed to one-year positions, resulting from leaves of absences for the 2006-07 school year. Dr. Cicchetti thanked Ms. Addamo and Ms. Spinella for their work this year.

Moved by Mr. Puzio, seconded by Ms. Mancini, that the contracts of employment for the following non-tenured teachers not be renewed for the 2007-2008 school year upon their expiration at the end of the current school year: Lynn Addamo, teacher of social studies at Berlin High School, and Elizabeth Spinella, teacher of grade 5 at Griswold School.

FAVOR: ALL
MOTION CARRIED: 6:0

B. Retirement

Dr. Cicchetti presented the notice of Mrs. Mariann Collis’s intention to retire as teacher of grade 2 at Emma Hart Willard School, effective June 30, 2007.

Moved by Ms. Erickson, seconded by Ms. O’Donnell-Moss, to accept the retirement of Mrs. Mariann Collis, teacher of grade 2 at Emma Hart Willard School, effective June 30, 2007. Also to thank her for the twenty-seven years of service she has provided to educating the youth of Berlin and to wish her good health and happiness in her retirement years.

FAVOR: ALL
MOTION CARRIED: 6:0

C. Anticipated Appointment of Hubbard School Principal

Dr. Cicchetti recommended Alfred Souza, III as the candidate for Principal of Hubbard School.
Moved by Mr. Richards, seconded by Mr. Puzio, that the Board of Education appoint Alfred Souza, III to the position of Principal of Richard D. Hubbard School, on or about July 1, 2007 with salary and starting date to be arranged by Superintendent.

FAVOR: ALL
MOTION CARRIED: 7:0, including President Gary Brochu

A short recess was taken from 7:55 p.m. to 8:14 p.m.

VI. CONSENT AGENDA

A. Approval of Minutes
1. Regular Meeting of March 12, 2007

B. Resignations

Ms. Marcia Lechowicz, teacher of grade 2 at Emma Hart Willard School, has submitted a letter of resignation to be effective June 30, 2007.

Ms. Yvonne Parenteau, psychologist at Griswold School, has submitted a letter of resignation to be effective June 30, 2007.

C. Overnight Field Trip Requests – Berlin High School – Camp Woodstock
1. Junior/Senior Peer Leadership Training, Sept. 15-16, 2007
2. Advanced Peer Leadership Training, March 14-16, 2008
3. Peer Leadership Training, May 9-11, 2008
4. “Great Escape” Training, June 5-6, 2008

Moved by Ms. O’Donnell-Moss, seconded by Mr. Puzio, to approve the consent agenda as presented, minus the minutes from March 12.

FAVOR: ALL
MOTION CARRIED: 6:0

Mr. Richards reported a few minor changes need to be made to the March 12, 2007 minutes.

VII. INFORMATION AND REPORTS

A. Status of the Board of Education’s Adopted Budget for 2007-08

Mr. John Richards, Chairperson of the Resources and Capacity-Building Committee, provided Board members with an update regarding the status of the Board’s Adopted Budget for 2007-08, including action that was taken by the Town Council at their March 13, 2007 meeting. Mr. Richards updated the Board on the status of the Operational Budget, Capital Budget, and Building and Site Budget.

B. Project CHOICE Participation for 2007-2008

Dr. Cicchetti provided the Board with a document reflecting, by grade and school, his recommended number of CHOICE students for 2007-08. In addition to the twelve (12) currently-enrolled students, who will advance one grade next year, Dr. Cicchetti recommended an additional ten (10) students, four (4) who would be placed in first grade classes and six (6) who would be place in second grade classes. CREC is asking districts to consider making additional seats available to CHOICE students for 2007-08. Dr. Cicchetti reported that there would be minimum impact on the first and second grade class sizes, as shown in the average class size data provided in the document.

C. Administrative Presentation on Rigor in the Classroom

In response to a request from the Board, members from the administrative team, Rena Klebart, Brian Benigni, George Synnott and Laurie Gjerpen, presented the rigor presentation that was given to staff at each of the five schools. The administrative team answered questions from the Board as well as the audience of citizens in attendance.

D. Re-Posting of K-12 Literacy Coordinator Position

Ms. Klebart provided an update to Board members regarding the re-posting of the K-12 Literacy Coordinator as the first posting for this position, last summer, proved unsuccessful as several candidates withdrew their application when they learned that the position was not an administrative one. Ms. Klebart elaborated on the job duties for the position, which in addition to supervising the reading/language arts consultants and the literacy program, will include program and staff supervision for English Language Learners and Library/Media. Mr. Czuchta reported that the current budget still contains the funds for the position; however, the proposed budget will recognize the position as a supervisory position; therefore the funding level has increased.

VIII. ADJOURNMENT

Moved by Ms. Rochette, seconded by Ms. O’Donnell-Moss, to adjourn the meeting at 9:15 p.m.

FAVOR: ALL
MOTION CARRIED: 6:0

Respectfully submitted,


John M. Richards, Secretary, Berlin Board of Education

Regular Meeting Minutes - April 23, 2007

BERLIN BOARD OF EDUCATION
April 23, 2007
MINUTES
REGULAR MEETING

Attendance: Gary Brochu
Julie Erickson
William Lutz
Diane Mancini
Kathleen O’Donnell-Moss
Christopher Puzio Absent
Anthony Recck Absent
John Richards Arrived at 7:12 p.m.
Rachel Rochette

Also in attendance: Superintendent of Schools Dr. Michael Cicchetti; Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction Rena Klebart; Director of Business Operations Roman Czuchta; and Interim Principal of Hubbard School Dr. Patricia Hatch.

I. CALL TO ORDER

Mr. Brochu called the meeting to order at 7:06 p.m. in the Cafeteria at the Richard D. Hubbard Elementary School, 139 Grove Street, East Berlin, CT. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by student Zachary Philippon. A moment of silence was observed.

II. STUDENT PRESENTATION – HUBBARD SCHOOL

Grade 1 teacher Meg Nardelli, Grade 2 teachers Melissa Cohen and Megan Sirois, Library Media Specialist/Computer teacher Debbie Lamond, and Music teacher Susan Kaczynski, along with grade one student presenters Julia Sisti and Lauren Veronneau, grade two student presenters Morgan Hamilton and Zachary Philippon, and grade five presenters Sierra Barnes, Alexandra Bouras, Brenton Cantliffe, Kevin Chiodo, Colin Cunningham, Yasmin Custovic, Emily Dittmar, Amanda Patterson, and Joey Termine performed selections from a CD that was made integrating reading strategies. First and second graders showed how they use and apply these strategies to improve comprehension.

III. BOARD AND ADMINISTRATIVE COMMUNICATIONS

Ms. O’Donnell-Moss reported on the Berlin High School band’s trip to New Orleans during the April vacation. Ms. O’Donnell-Moss reported the students distributed the items that were collected for the teachers in New Orleans, which amounted to over $1,000 in monetary and gift card donations as well as 40 boxes of school supplies. Ms. O’Donnell-Moss also reported on the community service performed by the students while they were in New Orleans and the positive reaction from city residents who observed their work.

Ms. Mancini reported on the clerical negotiations.

Mr. Czuchta reported that representatives from NESDEC will be in district this Wednesday and Thursday to gather information for the educational specifications for the new high school. NESDEC representatives will be meeting with school and town officials. Mr. Czuchta reported a public forum will be held on Thursday at 7:00 p.m. at the Berlin High School to give parents and community members an opportunity to speak with representatives from NESDEC.

Ms. Klebart reported that she, Mr. Czuchta, and Dr. Cicchetti met with PTO presidents to update them on the Wellness Policy and the State’s Healthy Foods Act and their implications for fundraising. Ms. Klebart reported on her attendance at the recent AARP meeting during which she gave an overview of the proposed 2007-08 budget.

Dr. Cicchetti reported on his attendance this past week at teacher recruitment fairs, specifically the Rhode Island Consortium for Educators and the Massachusetts Educational Recruitment Consortium. Dr. Cicchetti reported on his opportunity to also speak with individuals in the schools of education and career centers at Boston College and Boston University. Dr. Cicchetti reminded Hubbard parents in attendance that a reception will be held for Alfred Souza, III, the new Principal of Hubbard School, on May 9, 2007 at 6:30 p.m. at the Hubbard School.

Mr. Brochu reported on the report recently released by the Center for Teaching Quality, Designing a System that Students Deserve. Mr. Brochu emphasized the public forum on the new high school, which will be held on Thursday at 7:00 p.m. at Berlin High School. Mr. Brochu noted April 24, 2007 is Referendum Day, noting the two questions on the ballot: The approval of the Budget and the approval of the Technology Bond.

IV. AUDIENCE OF CITIZENS

Nothing to report.

V. CONSENT AGENDA
A. Approval of Minutes
1. Regular Meeting of April 9, 2007

B. Resignation

Sharon Shepherd, teacher of grade 5 at Richard D. Hubbard School, has submitted her letter of resignation to be effective June 30, 2007. Ms. Shepherd has been on maternity/childrearing leave this school year.

Moved by Ms. Erickson, seconded by Ms. O’Donnell-Moss to approve the consent agenda as presented.

FAVOR: ALL
MOTION CARRIED: 6:0

Mrs. Shephard, who was in attendance at the meeting with her husband and baby, thanked the administration and Board of Education for their support during her years of teaching at Hubbard School.

VI. INFORMATION AND REPORTS
A. Status of the Board of Education’s Adopted Budget for 2007-08

Board members were provided with an update on the status of the Board’s Adopted Budget for 2007-08 as it heads to the Town referendum on Tuesday, April 24, 2007.

B. Life Threatening Food Allergies Plan

Dr. Cicchetti updated the Board on the work that Director of Pupil Personnel Services Margaret Butler and a committee of staff members have been doing this year with respect to developing a plan and policy to address life threatening food allergies in the schools. Ms. Butler will bring a recommended policy to the Board at the June 11 meeting.

VII. EXECUTIVE SESSION

At 7:47 p.m., a motion was made by Mr. Lutz, seconded by Mrs. Erickson, to go into Executive Session to discuss materials relative to negotiations.

FAVOR: ALL
MOTION CARRIED: 6:0

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

At 8:12 p.m., a motion was made by Mr. Lutz, seconded by Mrs. O’Donnell-Moss, to return to regular session.

FAVOR: ALL
MOTION CARRIED: 6:0

VIII. ADJOURNMENT (to Committee Meetings)

Moved by Mrs. Erickson, seconded by Mrs. Rochette, to adjourn the meeting at 8:15 p.m.

FAVOR: ALL
MOTION CARRIED: 6:0

Respectfully submitted,

John M. Richards, Secretary
Berlin Board of Education

(JMR/bjd, original 4/24/07; Supt review 5/1/07; JMR final revisions 5/9/07)

Regular Meeting Minutes - May 14, 2007

BERLIN BOARD OF EDUCATION
May 14, 2007
MINUTES
REGULAR MEETING

Attendance: Gary Brochu
Julie Erickson
William Lutz
Diane Mancini (Absent)
Kathleen O’Donnell-Moss
Christopher Puzio
Anthony Recck (Absent)
John Richards
Rachel Rochette

Also in attendance: Superintendent of Schools Dr. Michael Cicchetti; Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction Rena Klebart; Director of Business Operations Roman Czuchta; Director of Pupil Personnel Services Margaret Butler; Principal of Griswold School Laurie Gjerpen; Principal of McGee Middle School Brian Benigni; Principal of Willard School Robert J. Sullivan II; Dean of Students for McGee Middle School James Sachs; and Principal of Berlin High School George Synnott.

I. CALL TO ORDER

Mr. Brochu called the meeting to order at 7:09 p.m. in the Board of Education (“the Board”) meeting room at 238 Kensington Road, Berlin, CT. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited and a moment of silence was observed.

II. BOARD AND ADMINISTRATIVE COMMUNICATIONS

Mr. Lutz reported interviews for the position of Literacy Coordinator will be conducted Tuesday.

Ms. Erickson reported on her attendance last week at Berlin High School’s band and choral concert. She said holding the concert in the gym was another reminder of the need for a new high school. Ms. Erickson reported the custodial negotiations continue and another meeting is scheduled for Tuesday.

Ms. Rochette reported on the cafeteria staff negotiations and another meeting is scheduled in June.

Ms. O’Donnell-Moss reported on her attendance last week at Berlin High School’s band and choral concert. Ms. O’Donnell-Moss reported the UpBeat town-wide picnic is scheduled for May 31, 2007 and encouraged all Board members to attend. Ms. O’Donnell-Moss reported the Peer Leadership Training weekend will take place this weekend at Camp Woodstock. Ms. O’Donnell-Moss reported the Berlin Education Council will meet on Thursday at 7:00 p.m.

Ms. Klebart reported that she and Ms. Gjerpen attended a workshop, sponsored by the State Department of Education, wherein the state math framework for kindergarten through Grade 5 was unveiled. Ms. Klebart also reiterated interviews for the Literacy Coordinator will be conducted Tuesday.

Mr. Czuchta reported the Town Technology Committee will meet this Thursday at 6:00 p.m. as a follow up to the Technology Bond, which was defeated, and discuss where to go from here with technology for both the Town and the Board of Education.

Dr. Cicchetti reported on the stipend document provided to the Board (this evening) as a follow up to the Board of Education Update the Board received last week. Dr. Cicchetti reported that Megan Sirois, second grade teacher at Hubbard School, was nominated by former student, Emily Gombotz, for Sam’s Club Teacher of the Year and Emily’s essay won. Ms. Sirois received a $100 gift card for her classroom from Sam’s Club, and the school received a check for $1,000 to support education in the school. Dr. Cicchetti reported on his attendance at the Junior Prom this past Friday evening and commended the students for their behavior as there were no incidents at the prom.

Mr. Brochu reported on the recent pasta dinner organized by a group of high school students to raise funds for Darfur and genocide in Africa. Mr. Brochu reported that he, Dr. Cicchetti, Mayor Adam Salina and Town Manager Herman Middlebrooks, Jr. met with Connecticut’s three legislative representatives to discuss legislative issues, specifically concerns with the change in reimbursement for school building projects and also parental choice for magnet schools.

III. SPECIAL PRESENTATION – TEACHER RECRUITMENT MATERIALS

Dr. Cicchetti presented the promotional materials that have been created for use at various education related events and conferences. The following students and staff members were featured in photographs utilized in the making of the promotional materials and were presented with a framed copy of the print to take home: students Marijane Ceruti, Amanda Francini, Taylor Jefferson, Elizabeth Long, Tristan Luddy, Samantha Shirley, Stephanie Strobino, Daniela Sznaj, and Katelyn Zarotney; staff members Lisa Daddona, Science-BHS; Joy Cooper, Social Studies-McGee; Julie DiCicco, Mathematics-BHS; Thomas Warburton, English-BHS; David Bosso, Social Studies-BHS; Christian Strickland, Grade 4-Griswold; Steven Matyczyk, Science/Soc. Studies-McGee; and Roszena Sutton, Supervisor of Special Education-district. Special thanks go to Paul Salina, David Evon, Kevin Cormack, Nancy Boccuzzio, Debbie Batista, Brian Benigni, James Sachs and Rena Klebart for their help in the creation of these materials.

IV. AUDIENCE OF CITIZENS

Nothing to report.

V. CONSENT AGENDA
A. Approval of Minutes
1. Regular Meeting of April 23, 2007

B. Payment of Bills – Period ending April 30, 2007

C. Transfers

Roman Czuchta, Director of Business Operations, provided a sheet of transfers that represent year end adjustments to accounts.

D. Requests for Leaves of Absence

Catherine Plona, teacher of Language Arts at Catherine M. McGee Middle School has submitted a letter requesting an unpaid leave of absence for the 2007-2008 school year for childrearing purposes. Mrs. Plona is expecting the birth of her baby in July.

Shannon Felix, teacher of mathematics at Catherine M. McGee Middle School has submitted a letter requesting an unpaid leave of absence for the 2007-2008 school year for childrearing purposes. Mrs. Felix is expecting the birth of her baby in May.

E. Action Regarding Non-Renewal Notice

Due to a resignation, the District is able to extend Elizabeth Spinella’s employment as a teacher in the Berlin Public Schools. It is, therefore, recommended to rescind the non-renewal notice issued to Elizabeth Spinella and offer her a contract for the 2007-2008 academic year.

Moved by Ms. O’Donnell-Moss, seconded by Mr. Richards, to approve the consent agenda as presented.

FAVOR: ALL
MOTION CARRIED: 6:0

VI. INFORMATION AND REPORTS

A. Activity Fund Reports
1. Berlin High School Enterprise Fund – Period ending March 31, 2007
2. Berlin Public Schools Activity Fund – Period ending March 31, 2007
3. Cafeteria Fund – Period ending March 31, 2007

These reports were noted with interest.

Mr. Richards commented on the net profit/loss as of June 30, 2006 for the Cafeteria Fund, inquiring if the net profit figure of $19,376.06 should be placed in the right hand column as the last quarter of the current school year has not yet occurred. Mr. Richards commented on the net profit of $19,376.06 as of June 30, 2006 and the net loss of $12,497.76 as of March 31, 2007 and inquired of Mr. Czuchta of the current net profit or loss. Mr. Czuchta remarked the net loss as of March 31, 2007 is approximately $32,000.00 as expenses are up and revenues are down. Mr. Richards questioned the ($15,000) loss of revenue in the line item Lunch A-La-Carte, noting the previous meeting comments indicating loss of sales relating to the introduction of a low-fat cookie. Mr. Richards requested the breakdown of profit or loss for the Cafeteria Fund be broken down on a monthly basis.

A short break took place from 7:34 p.m. to 7:39 p.m.

B. McGee Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP)

On an annual basis, McGee Middle School disaggregates test data, looks at student performance and plans the next year’s offerings. This year McGee offered several initiatives to address the issue of AYP or Annual Yearly Progress at McGee. SPRINT was offered as an after school program to everyone who scored proficient and lower on their CMTs. Support was provided in reading and math. Struggling readers were identified by CMT scores. Social Studies classes were divided by skill level. The purpose was to teach specific reading strategies using specialized as well as Social Studies materials - Reading in the Content Area (RICA). Rena Klebart, Brian Benigni and Margaret Butler reviewed a sample Connecticut Mastery Test Student Report and presented an overview, as well as answered questions from the Board, concerning these current initiatives, outlining each of the two programs that were offered; the programs’ resources; participation in the programs at each of the grade levels; and the considerations for moving forward. Mr. Benigni shared with the Board a CMT Excel spreadsheet containing data as to the grade level, teacher, team, special education notation, CMT scores for Math, Reading and Writing as well as a column for participation in SPRINT and/or RICA for every student in the McGee Middle School. A handout of the presentation was provided to Board members.

C. English Language Learners (ELL) Report

This item has been postponed to the next Board meeting as Abby Hunting, ELL department chair, was unavailable.

D. Literacy Committee Report

Members of the district Literacy Committee have worked with Dr. Susan Deffenbaugh, a reading consultant with experience at the State Department of Education, to review existing instructional practices and materials. The committee has established grade-level objectives, which are aligned with the Literacy Framework established by the State Department of Education and the objectives established for the Connecticut Mastery Test. The Literacy Committee shared the literacy curriculum with elementary grade-level teams at the March 24th and March 30th professional development days and also worked with grade-level teams during release time on April 24th. Teachers have had an opportunity to review the literacy curriculum and make recommendations for their professional developments needs. Next steps will include development of grade-level assessments and continued professional development in support of literacy instruction. Ms. Klebart presented the Literacy Curriculum as well as answered questions from the Board. Ms. Klebart reviewed the principles that guided the committee’s work; members of the committee; the “why” behind the committee’s work; existing documents; standards; essential elements of a balanced literacy program; the general layout; format; curriculum revisions; next steps; vertical team areas of focus; professional development; and the reading consultants. A handout of the presentation was provided to Board members.

E. Status of Educational Specifications for the New High School

Administration and Board Committee Chairs reported on their meeting (earlier that afternoon) with representatives of NESDEC as to the status of preparing educational specifications for the new high school. Mr. Czuchta reported at the May 29, 2007 Board meeting NESDEC will present a PowerPoint presentation on a number of the areas discussed and areas that are unique to Berlin and the State. The final report will be presented at the June 11 Board meeting, with anticipated action at the June 25 meeting.

VII. RECOMMENDED ACTION
A. Last Student Day for 2006-2007 School Year

Dr. Cicchetti reported that, in light of discussions with Cabinet and administrators, it is recommended that the last student day be moved from Monday, June 25, to Friday, June 22, which will remain a half-day for students and a full day for staff. Staff will be involved in planned activities on Monday, June 25, which will be a full day for staff. From 8:00 – 12:00, staff members at each of the elementary schools and the middle school will be involved in completing their review of the Continuous Improvement Plans. They will summarize their year end reports and begin to work on school and team goals for the coming school year based on their evaluation of student performance. Administrators at all levels will work with their staff on the Professional Growth and Evaluation Plan, helping teachers understand each of the phases and the forms included in the plan. The balance of the day will be devoted to closing out the school year. High school teachers will administer make-up exams to students, prepare quarter and semester grades, and/or resolve graduation and eligibility issues during the morning block. As with the elementary and middle school staff, the balance of the day will be devoted to closing out the school year.

Moved by Ms. Rochette, seconded by Mr. Puzio, to move the last student day of school for 2006-2007 from Monday, June 25, to Friday, June 22, which will remain a half-day for students and a full day for staff.

In response to Ms. Erickson’s inquiry, Dr. Cicchetti stated that Friday, June 22, 2007, would be a half day for students since the last day of school has traditionally been a half day. June 22 will be a full day for teachers.

FAVOR: ALL
MOTION CARRIED: 7:0, including President Gary Brochu

B. Beginning Educator Support Team (BEST) Mentor Candidates

Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction Rena Klebart presented the following candidates for certification in the BEST program: Lynn Addamo, Ed Beaupre, Mark Centurelli, Eileen Cutler, Elijah Clapp, Leonilda DiTomasso, Teresa Dorsey, Wendy Gemmell, Elizabeth Guidone, Kristin Kennedy, Ruth Kidwell, Adam Leonard, Kathy Lotko, Theodore Mangi, Steve Matyczyk, Meghan Nardelli, Shawn Pelletier, Christina Reilly-Fazzina, Scott Rossi, Brendan Rush, David Scannell, Marilyn Scanlon White, Corinne Terlecky, Kim Waldron, and Jan Zagorski. Once trained, these teachers will be eligible to serve as cooperating teachers for student teachers and mentors for our new hires. Ms. Klebart provided a listing of the teachers with their school and assignment.

Moved by Mr. Puzio, seconded by Ms. Erickson, to approve the Beginning Educator Support Team (BEST) candidates as presented.

Mr. Richards requested a chart of how many BEST qualified teachers are at each school as well as the listing of the teachers for the past two years. Dr. Cicchetti responded that this information would be included in a future Board Update.

FAVOR: ALL
MOTION CARRIED: 6:0

C. Setting of the 2007-2008 Board of Education Operating Budget

Moved by Mr. Richards, seconded by Ms. O’Donnell-Moss, that the Board of Education adopt an Operating Budget for 2007-2008 in the amount of $34,354,578.

Mr. Richards noted the Operating Budget approved in the minutes is not the figure that will be approved this evening. This figure for the Operating Budget is $60,000 less than what was approved earlier this year and puts the Board in harmony with what was recently approved by the Town and incorporates the work the Board did with the Council.

FAVOR: ALL
MOTION CARRIED: 7:0, including President Gary Brochu

VIII. EXECUTIVE SESSION

At 9:00 p.m., a motion was made by Ms. Erickson, seconded by Mr. Lutz, to go into Executive Session to discuss materials relative to negotiations.

FAVOR: ALL
MOTION CARRIED: 6:0

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

At 9:35 p.m., a motion was made by Ms. Rochette, seconded by Ms. O’Donnell-Moss, to return to regular session.

FAVOR: ALL
MOTION CARRIED: 6:0

IX. ADJOURNMENT

Moved by Mr. Puzio, seconded by Ms. Erickson, to adjourn the meeting at 9:36 p.m.

FAVOR: ALL
MOTION CARRIED: 6:0

Respectfully submitted,

John M. Richards, Secretary
Berlin Board of Education

(Orig: 5/15/07 JMR; bjd; Supt review done 5/23/97; JMR final revision done 5/24/07)

Regular Meeting Minutes - May 29, 2007

BERLIN BOARD OF EDUCATION
May 29, 2007
MINUTES
REGULAR MEETING

Attendance: Gary Brochu
Julie Erickson
William Lutz
Diane Mancini
Kathleen O’Donnell-Moss
Christopher Puzio
Anthony Recck
John Richards
Rachel Rochette

Also in attendance: Superintendent of Schools Dr. Michael Cicchetti; Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction Rena Klebart; Director of Business Operations Roman Czuchta; Director of Pupil Personnel Services Margaret Butler; Principal of Griswold School Laurie Gjerpen; Principal of McGee Middle School Brian Benigni; and Principal of Berlin High School George Synnott.

I. CALL TO ORDER

Mr. Brochu called the meeting to order at 7:13 p.m. in the Board of Education (“the Board”) meeting room at 238 Kensington Road, Berlin, CT. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited and a moment of silence was observed.

II. BOARD AND ADMINISTRATIVE COMMUNICATIONS

Mr. Puzio reported on his participation in the Memorial Day Parade.

Mr. Lutz reported on his attendance Thursday evening at Hubbard School’s celebration of the arts.. Mr. Lutz remarked he was most impressed with the amount of cross curriculum writing, a very good indication of the quality of instruction students are receiving from the teachers.

Ms. Mancini reported on the clerical negotiations with another meeting scheduled June 9, 2007.

Mr. Richards reported on his attendance at the UpBeat training weekend at Camp Woodstock. Mr. Richards reported that the Resources and Capacity-building Committee met this evening and covered four items: (1) revisions to a board policy dealing with substitute pay; (2) transfers; (3) excess cost grant; and (4) salaries for the non-bargaining unit employees. Mr. Richards indicated that the first and fourth items would be brought to the Board at a later meeting. Further, he stated that for the excess costs, Mr. Czuchta will follow-up with that item at an upcoming Town Council meeting, where it is expected that these funds will be transferred to the Board, as is budgeted annually in regards to special education tuition and transportation costs.

Ms. Erickson reported on the custodial negotiations with another meeting scheduled June 7, 2007.

Ms. Rochette congratulated both the Berlin High School and McGee Middle School marching bands for their participation in the Memorial Day Parade, commenting they represented the Town well. Ms. Rochette reported on the cafeteria staff negotiations with another meeting scheduled in June.

Ms. O’Donnell-Moss reported on her attendance at the Berlin High School Senior Class play as well as the art show. Ms. O’Donnell-Moss reported on the community service performed by approximately thirty UpBeat students for one of Berlin’s citizens. Ms. O’Donnell-Moss reported on the Berlin Education Council meeting held May 17, 2007.

Mr. Czuchta reported interviews for the Data Specialist position will be conducted this Friday and next Monday.

Ms. Butler reported that the preschool program received reaccredidation from the National Association for the Education of Young Children. Ms. Butler reported on a new six-week grant program, which Hubbard School is implementing in collaboration with The COVE Center for Grieving Children.

Ms. Klebart reported that she, along with Ms. Gjerpen and Mr. Benigni, had an opportunity to attend a three-day conference regarding making standards work and the state curriculum standards. Ms. Klebart also reported that on Thursday she, along with Marilyn Scanlan-White, Berlin High School Reading Consultant, Marilyn Mordarski, McGee Middle School Reading Consultant and Jen Derick, Assistant Principal at Willard School, attended the State of Connecticut Department of Education seminar Beyond the Blueprint: Literacy Frameworks for Grades K through 12.

Dr. Cicchetti reported on his attendance at the Berlin High School Senior Class play as well as the Hubbard School art show. Dr. Cicchetti reported on the construction in the lobby of the Berlin Board of Education building to create a handicapped accessible lavatory.

Mr. Brochu reported upcoming CABE workshops are posted on its website. Mr. Brochu reported Shipman & Goodwin will be holding a negotiation seminar on June 27, 2007. Mr. Brochu reported on his attendance at the student work presentation at Hubbard.

II. STUDENT PRESENTATION – MCGEE MIDDLE SCHOOL

Mrs. McCabe, 8th grade McGee School ILA teacher, and Mrs. Plona, writing coordinator, discussed the guidelines for the 8th grade portfolios and presented copies for the Board to read as well as answered questions from the Board concerning the guidelines and assessments. Several 8th grade students also read a favorite piece from their portfolio which will travel with them to the high school next year. Student presenters were: Kevin Kozikowski, Mallory Brochu, Lauren Erickson, Mason Powers, Alex Joslyn, Shaun Sullivan, Natalie VonAchen, Mariana Campos, Dylan Grasso and Kaitlyn Synnott.

IV. AUDIENCE OF CITIZENS

Nothing to report.

At this time, Mr. Brochu asked if there were any objections to moving item VIII A, up in the agenda. Hearing none, the item was addressed.

VIII. RECOMMENDED ACTION
A. Anticipated Appointment – K-12 Literacy Coordinator

Moved by Ms. Mancini, seconded by Mr. Puzio, that the Board of Education appoint Debra Thibault to the position of K-12 Literacy Coordinator, effective July 1, 2007.

FAVOR: ALL
ABSTENTIONS: Mr. Recck
MOTION CARRIED: 8:0:1; including President Gary Brochu

A short recess was taken from 7:50 p.m. to 8:02 p.m., to congratulate and greet Ms. Thibault.

V. PERSONNEL
A. Announcement – Teacher of the Year

Dr. Cicchetti introduced Berlin’s 2008 Teacher of the Year, Linda Germain, who is a physical education teacher and director of athletics at McGee Middle School. Mrs. Germain thanked the district for selecting her as the 2008 Teacher of the Year.

VI. CONSENT AGENDA
A. Approval of Minutes
1. Regular Meeting of May 14, 2007

2. Special Meeting of May 15, 2007

B. Resignations

Melissa Mirabello, teacher of English at Berlin High School, has submitted her letter of resignation to be effective June 30, 2007. Mrs. Mirabello has accepted a position in another district.

Richard Peronace, Jr., teacher of social studies at Berlin High School, has submitted his letter of resignation to be effective June 30, 2007. Mr. Peronace has been on childrearing leave this school year.

C. Overnight Field Trip Request – McGee Middle School

McGee Middle School Principal Brian Benigni is requesting permission for twelve McGee Middle School students to participate in The McGee Adventurer’s Program on June 14-16, 2007. The group will camp at People’s Forest in Barkhamsted for the two nights. They will participate in team building, and climbing and ropes course activities. The trip will culminate with an adventure into Indian Oven Cave in Millerton, NY. The trip is being organized by Doug Truitt, Berlin Youth Services Coordinator.

D. Transfers

Roman Czuchta, Director of Business Operations, provided a sheet of transfers that represented year end adjustments to accounts.

Moved by Ms. O’Donnell-Moss, seconded by Ms. Rochette, to approve the consent agenda as presented.

FAVOR: ALL
MOTION CARRIED: 8:0

VII. INFORMATION AND REPORTS
A. Professional Growth & Evaluation Committee Update

Members of the Professional Growth and Evaluation Committee have worked closely with both the Berlin Education Association and the Administrative Council to develop a professional growth and evaluation plan that will meet the needs of all teachers. The revised plan is consistent with the Continuous Improvement process and allows for differentiated professional development and action plans which reflect the teacher’s level of experience and area of expertise. Each of the phases, within the plan, support teacher growth and professional development and encourage collaboration of grade level teams and departments. Assistant Superintendent Rena Klebart and members of the Committee presented the Professional Growth and Evaluation Plan to the Board, providing an overview of the components of the revised Professional Growth and Evaluation Plan. Ms. Klebart acknowledged the Committee members; reviewed the Goal Statement; Berlin’s Guiding Beliefs for all students, teachers, and community members; and the various phases of the new plan, i.e. Induction I, Induction II, Continuous Professional Growth, Extended Professional Growth, Supported Professional Growth, and Intensive Assistance. A handout of the presentation was provided to Board members. Ms. Klebart and Ms. Weber responded to questions from the Board.

B. Status of Educational Specifications for the New High School

Donald G. Kennedy, Ed.D. and John H. Kennedy, M.A., representatives from NESDEC, presented a PowerPoint presentation regarding preliminary Educational Specifications for a new high school facility and provided Board members with a copy of NESDEC’s report entitled New High School: Vision, Program, Outline Ed Specs Berlin, Connecticut. Dr. Kennedy and Mr. Kennedy reviewed background information provided in NESDEC’s Long Range School Facilities Plan completed in July of 2006; Berlin High School’s Needs/Deficiencies; Project Design; Process; Points of Consensus (based on input from focus groups, administration and Board of Education members); Other Input From Focus Groups; Important Choice Points; Swimming Pool (input from focus groups); and Useful Data concerning reimbursement square footage and construction costs. Dr. Kennedy provided a “virtual tour” presentation of recently-constructed high schools in Shrewsbury, Massachusetts, Falmouth, Maine and Suffield, Connecticut. These school reflect many of Berlin’s points of consensus, as determined by the series of recent focus groups.

Mr. Kennedy updated the Board with regard to tentative conclusions made as well as decisions that are outstanding, commenting that tremendous progress has been made in the last couple of weeks. Mr. Kennedy indicated the next steps will be the analysis of additional input received hereafter, ongoing consultation with the administration, finalization of the list of spaces and compute square footage and then completing and submitting the final report. Both Dr. Kennedy and Mr. Kennedy answered questions from the Board regarding the presentation.

The consultants will share a copy of their preliminary report at the June 11 Board meeting, with anticipated action on a final education specifications by the Board at their June 25 Board meeting. In response to concerns raised by Board members regarding opportunity for additional discussion prior to approving the education specifications, Dr. Cicchetti proposed the following sequence of events:

 NESDEC consultants will follow up with George Synnott and Roman Czuchta to address outstanding items and items identified by Board members.

 Board Committee chairs, along with Dr. Cicchetti, Mr. Czuchta, and Mr. Synnott, will meet with NESDEC consultants during the week of June 4 to review components and square footage of recommended specifications.

 Board members will review and discuss the proposed educational specifications at the June 11 Board meeting when the report is presented by NESDEC.

 A special Board meeting, if needed, will be scheduled to provide an opportunity for further review and discussion prior to the June 25 meeting.

 Board members will approve the final educational specifications at the June 25 meeting.

VIII. RECOMMENDED ACTION
A. (Appointment moved up in the agenda; see it after IV. Audience of Citizens)
B. High Deductible/HSA Insurance Plan

As agreed to in a Memorandum of Agreement dated November 7, 2006, the Board of Education has worked cooperatively with the Berlin Education Association (BEA) to develop a High Deductible/HSA plan as an additional insurance option that will be included in the new teachers’ contract and become effective with the 2007-2008 contract year. Mr. Czuchta reviewed the Proposed Design for High Deductible Health Plan (HDHP) with a Health Savings Account (HSA) Feature and responded to questions from the Board. A copy of proposal was provided to the Board.

Moved by Mr. Richards, seconded by Ms. O’Donnell-Moss, that the Board approve the High Deductible/HSA plan as presented.

FAVOR: ALL
MOTION CARRIED: 8:0

IX. EXECUTIVE SESSION

At 10:28 p.m., a motion was made by Mr. Recck, seconded by Ms. Rochette, to go into Executive Session to discuss the New Britain Transportation Contract, materials relative to negotiations, and evaluation of the Superintendent of Schools.

FAVOR: ALL
MOTION CARRIED: 8:0

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

At 10:43 p.m., Mr. Czuchta departed.

At 11:00 p.m., a motion was made by Mr. Recck , seconded by Mr. Lutz, to return to regular session and to adjourn the meeting.

FAVOR: ALL
MOTION CARRIED: 8:0

Respectfully submitted, John M. Richards, Secretary
Berlin Board of Education

(JMR:bjd orig. 6/1/07; Supt review 6/7/07; JMR final review 6/8/07)

Special Meeting Minutes - May 15, 2007

BERLIN BOARD of EDUCATION
May 15, 2007
MINUTES
Special Meeting

Present:
John Richards, Chair
Julie Erickson
William Lutz
Kathy O’Donnell-Moss
Rachel Rochette

Absent None

The meeting was called to order by Board Secretary Richards Brochu at 7:32 a.m. in the Board of Education (the “Board”) meeting room at 238 Kensington Road, Berlin, CT.

Moved by Mrs. Rochette, seconded by Mr. Lutz to enter an executive session for the purposes of conducting an expulsion hearing at 7:33 a.m.

FAVOR: All
MOTION CARRIED: 5:0

Present: Board members Richards, Erickson, Lutz, O’Donnell-Moss, and Rochette.
Also, Superintendent Cicchetti, McGee Middle School Principal
Mr. B. Benigni, attorney for the Board Mr. Richard Mills, Student A, and Student A’s mother.

At 7:40 a.m., all but the Board members departed the meeting room.
At 7:43 a.m., all but the Board members returned to the meeting room.

Moved by Mrs. Erickson, seconded by Mrs. Rochette to return to regular session at 7:44 a.m.

FAVOR: All
MOTION CARRIED: 5:0

Moved by Mrs. O’Donnell-Moss, seconded by Mrs. Rochette that Student A be expelled from school, effective May 15, 2007 and continuing through May 15, 2008, based on Student A’s conduct in violating the Board’s Student Discipline policy by engaging in threatening behavior toward other students, through Student A’s creation of a “hit list” that included the names of other students, in or about April or May of 2007:

1. During the period of expulsion, the Board will provide Student A with an alternative educational program deemed appropriate by the Administration, in accordance with the provisions of Section 10-233d of the Connecticut General Statutes.

2. During the period of expulsion, Student A will not be permitted to be on school grounds and will not be permitted to attend or participate in any school-sponsored activities, with the sole exception of Student A’s participation in the alternative education program provided by the Board in accordance with the provisions of this Agreement.

3. Prior to the first day of the 2007-08 school year, the Superintendent will review Student A’s conduct, as well as Student A’s attendance and effort level in the alternative educational program. Based on that review, the Superintendent will determine, in his sole discretion, whether Student A should be readmitted to
school, effective on the first day of the 2007-08 school year.

4. If the Superintendent determines that Student A should be readmitted to school early in accordance with the preceding section, and if Student A subsequently commits any offense that would warrant suspension and/or expulsion under the policies of the Berlin Board of Education, the Superintendent may reinstate Student A’s expulsion for the remainder of the expulsion period, through May 15, 2008, without the need for any further proceedings before the Berlin Board of Education.

FAVOR: All
MOTION CARRIED: 5:0

Moved by Mrs. Erickson, seconded by Mr. Puzio to adjourn the meeting at 7:45 a.m.

FAVOR: All
MOTION CARRIED: 5:0

Submitted by, John M. Richards, Secretary
Berlin Board of Education

JMR: jmr (Original 5/24/07)

Regular Meeting Minutes - June, 11 2007

BERLIN BOARD OF EDUCATION
June 11, 2007
MINUTES
REGULAR MEETING

Attendance:      Gary Brochu          
        Julie Erickson
        William Lutz         
        Diane Mancini(Arrived at 7:35 p.m.)
        Kathleen O’Donnell-Moss (Departed at 11:00 p.m.)
        Christopher Puzio                
        Anthony Recck    (Arrived at 8:50 p.m.)
        John Richards                
        Rachel Rochette

Also in attendance:  Superintendent of Schools Dr. Michael Cicchetti; Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction Rena Klebart; Director of Business Operations Roman Czuchta; Director of Pupil Personnel Services Margaret Butler; Principal of Griswold School Laurie Gjerpen; Principal of Willard School Robert J. Sullivan II; Principal of McGee Middle School Brian Benigni; and Principal of Berlin High School George Synnott.  

IA.    CALL TO ORDER

Mr. Brochu called the meeting to order at 7:08 p.m. in the Berlin High School Media Center, at 139 Patterson Way, Berlin, Connecticut.  The Pledge of Allegiance was recited and a moment of silence was observed.

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

II.    BOARD AND ADMINISTRATIVE COMMUNICATIONS
A.    Recognition of James Bryers as State Golf Coach of the Year

    Mr. Synnott recognized James Bryers as the State’s 2007 Boys’ Golf Coach of the Year.

IB.    SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS
Mr. Synnott recognized the following Berlin High School students:

Berlin High School Recognition – Valedictorian and Salutatorian
Valedictorian – Jordan E. Taylor
Salutatorian – Emily I. Thurston
CAS Scholar Athletes – Sarah E. Hansen & Benjamin C. Heslin
CABE Student Leadership Awards – Jordan Taylor & Jonathan Schaller
Student Council 2007:
President – Lindsey Fortunato
Vice President – Toni Rauseo
Corresponding Secretary – Mari Rauseo
Recording Secretary – Kelly Foy
Treasurer – Avani Patel
Class of 2007 Officers:
President – Rachel Keyworth
Vice President – Alan Zaniewski
Secretary – Jenna Campagna
Treasurer – Jordan Taylor

Rena Klebart, Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction recognized the following students as distinguished senior writing portfolio authors:  Stephanie Bedus, Joel Burgos, Matthew Cavedon, Gong Chen, Amanda Fazzio, Lindsey Fortunato, Elizabeth Hull, Edmund Kindelan, Jordan Taylor and Lauren Vernlund.  The following students were recognized as commended authors:  Brad Allen, Elizabeth Bujda, Jenna Campagna, Leah Carvalho, Aaron Clarke, Sara Collins, Aleah Edwards, Amanda Francini, Benjamin Heslin, Melody Kasulis, Rachel Keyworth, Michelle Maroon, Martha Rakowicz, David (Wells) Riley and Laura Wnuk.  Authors Stephanie Bedus, Elizabeth Bujda, Joel Burgos, Gong Chen and Elizabeth Hull read their portfolio pieces to the Board and audience.  

Band Trip to New Orleans

Mr. Todd Lamson provided the Board and audience with a summary of the Berlin High School band’s trip to New Orleans during the April vacation in which 107 students and seven chaperones participated.  Mr. Lamson also shared a video montage assembled by band students students Molly Moskey and Jeff Sirois.

A short recess was taken from 7:56 p.m. to 8:23 p.m.

II.    BOARD AND ADMINISTRATIVE COMMUNICATIONS
A.    (Recognition of James Bryers moved up in the agenda; see it after I.  Call to Order)
    B.    Recognition of James Day for Years of Service as Wrestling Coach.

Mr. Day was not able to be present and the item will be rescheduled.

Ms. Erickson reported on her attendance at the Pop’s Concert last Tuesday at Berlin High School.  Ms. Erickson reported on her attendance at the Board’s Retirees Reception held last week for retiring teachers.  

Ms. Rochette reported on her attendance at the UpBeat town-wide picnic on May 31, 2007.

Ms. O’Donnell-Moss reported on her attendance at the Pop’s Concert last Tuesday at the Berlin High School wherein approximately 3,000 canned foods were collected for the food pantries.  Ms. O’Donnell-Moss reported on her attendance at the UpBeat town-wide picnic on May 31, 2007.

Mr. Puzio reported the DARE graduation for Hubbard School will be held this Wednesday at 6:30 p.m.

Ms. Mancini reported on the clerical negotiations with another meeting scheduled June 19, 2007.  Ms. Mancini reported on her attendance last week at Willard’s talent show and the UpBeat town-wide picnic on May 31, 2007.

Mr. Richards reported the Resources and Capacity-building Committee will bring to the Board this evening revision to a Board policy dealing with substitute pay.  Mr. Richards extended a thank you to Donald G. Kennedy, Ed.D. and John H. Kennedy, M.A., representatives from NESDEC, for the presentation last Thursday.  Mr. Richards also thanked the administration, Mr. Czuchta and Mr. Synnott for gathering the information for the proposed educational specifications.  Mr. Richards requested the Board stay focused on the proposed educational specifications themselves for this meeting, as there will be time in the future to attend to the other details necessary to build the new high school.   

Dr. Cicchetti reported the Michael’s Cup program has selected Berlin High School as one of the recipients for the Special Olympics Connecticut Unified Sport’s Award.  Dr. Cicchetti reported that Michael Marcus, Social Studies teacher at Berlin High School, has been accepted to attend the six-day seminar Teacher Institute 2007:  Dutch Art in the Golden Age in Washington, D.C. from July 30, 2007 through August 4, 2007.  Dr. Cicchetti congratulated Pam Kiniry, teacher at McGee Middle School and a member of the CAPT Response to Literature Content Advisory Committee, for the letter of commendation received from the State Department of Education.  

Mr. Brochu reported on his attendance at Hubbard’s talent show held last Friday.  Mr. Brochu reported he spoke with Mayor Adam Salina this date and updated him with regard to the education specifications.   

III.    AUDIENCE OF CITIZENS

Nothing to report.

IV.    CONSENT AGENDA
A.Approval of Minutes
1.Regular Meeting of May 29, 2007

B.Payment of Bills – Period ending May 31, 2007

C.Action Regarding Non-Renewal Notice

Due to a resignation, the District is able to extend Lynn Addamo’s employment as a teacher in the Berlin Public Schools.  It is, therefore, recommended to rescind the non-renewal notice issued to Lynn Addamo and offer her a contract for the 2007-2008 academic year.

D.Transfers

Roman Czuchta, Director of Business Operations, provided a sheet of transfers that represent year end adjustments to accounts.

Moved by Ms. Erickson, seconded by Ms. Rochette, to approve the consent agenda as presented.

FAVOR:        ALL
MOTION CARRIED:  7:0 

V.      INFORMATION AND REPORTS
A.Activity Fund Reports
1.Berlin High School Enterprise Fund – Period ending April 30, 2007
2.Berlin Public Schools Activity Fund – Period ending April 30, 2007
3.Cafeteria Fund – Period ending April 30, 2007

These reports were noted with interest.

B.    English Language Learners (ELL) Report

Abby Hunting, ELL department chair, has been working with the ELL tutors to develop procedures and policies for the department.  Ms. Hunting presented to the Board a PowerPoint presentation outlining the program, specifically the mission of the ESOL program; number of ELL students Berlin services; language ELL students speak other than English; who services the ELL students and how; how students are referred to the program and, after referral, how students qualify for the services; how ELL students are integrated into regular education and how a student’s progress is tracked; annual measurement academic objectives (AMAOs); the dismissal process; the role of technology in the program; the 2006 – 2007 accomplishments for Berlin’s ESOL program; and goals for the 2007 – 2008 school year.   Ms. Hunting answered questions from the Board members regarding the report.

C.     BHS Mentor Program

Mr. Synnott presented the Board with an update on the first year of the high school mentoring program.  Mr. Synnott indicated that during the course of the year, mentoring groups addressed such issues as school climate and morale, school security, suggestions for change, academic rigor, and zero tolerance policies.  Mr. Synnott indicated the mentoring groups met once per month this year and the expectation is to increase to bi-monthly meetings for the 2007 – 2008 school year.  Mr. Synnott responded to questions from the Board members regarding the mentoring program.

D.     Status of Educational Specifications for the New High School

Donald G. Kennedy, Ed.D. and John H. Kennedy, M.A., representatives from NESDEC, presented their preliminary report and provided the Board with a copy of same regarding the preliminary educational specifications for a new high school facility.  Mr. Donald Kennedy reviewed each of the four pages of the report, specifically giving a description and dimensions of the spaces, number of spaces, type of spaces, the rationale for these spaces and the amount of reimbursement from the State for the new high school.  Mr. Kennedy also highlighted what currently exists in the high school and what does not exist.  Mr. Kennedy remarked that it is important to understand that this design is directed towards providing sufficient space to get the job done instructionally.  

Dr. John Kennedy remarked that one of the major exercises that NESDEC has done is to help the Board recognize what would best serve Berlin’s needs and what would be best for the new high school in each of these spaces.  

Dr. Kennedy, Mr. Kennedy and Mr. Synnott responded to questions from the Board regarding the preliminary report and the rationale for same.

A committee meeting will take place on Thursday, June 14, 2007, at 7:00 p.m. regarding the educational specifications with anticipated action on the final education specifications by the Board at their June 25, 2007 Board meeting.

Ms. O’Donnell-Moss left the meeting at 11:00 p.m.


E.     Policy Revision – 1st Reading – Policy GCE-R – Substitute Pay

Dr. Cicchetti indicated accompanying the agenda is a proposed revision for Policy GCE-R: Substitute Pay.  The revisions, which were discussed by the Board’s Resources and Capacity-building Committee, reflect what the current practice has been regarding substitute teachers.  Since this is a first reading, there is no Board action requested at this time.  The policy will be brought back for a second reading and anticipated approval at the June 25 Board of Education meeting.

VI.    EXECUTIVE SESSION
    A.    Discuss Materials Relative to Negotiations

The Board did not enter into Executive Session to discuss materials relative to negotiations.

VII.    ADJOURNMENT

    Moved by Mr. Recck, seconded by Ms. Erickson, to adjourn the meeting at 11:22 p.m.

FAVOR:     ALL  
MOTION CARRIED:  7:0
 
Respectfully submitted,




John M. Richards, Secretary, Berlin Board of Education


(JMR/bjd original 6/12/07; Supt review 6/15/07; JMR final 6/22/07)

Regular Meeting Minutes - June, 25 2007

Regular Meeting Minutes - July 16, 2007

SPECIAL MEETING

BERLIN BOARD OF EDUCATION

July 16, 2007

MINUTES

REGULAR MEETING

Attendance: Gary Brochu

Julie Erickson

William Lutz Absent

Diane Mancini

Kathleen O’Donnell-Moss

Christopher Puzio Absent

Anthony Recck Arrived 7:45 p.m. (Exec Session)

John Richards

Rachel Rochette

Also in attendance: Superintendent of Schools Dr. Michael Cicchetti; Director of Business Operations Roman Czuchta; Director of Pupil Personnel Services Margaret Butler; and Principal of Hubbard School Alfred Souza.

I. CALL TO ORDER

Mr. Brochu called the meeting to order at 7:05 p.m. in the Board of Education (“the Board”) meeting room at 238 Kensington Road, Berlin, CT. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited and a moment of silence was observed.

II. BOARD AND ADMINISTRATIVE COMMUNICATIONS

Mr. Richards reported on a residence question that came before him as a representative of CREC and a member its Board of Directors. Mr. Richards indicated he forwarded the question to CREC.

Dr. Cicchetti reported on the excellent work that was accomplished by administrators at the recent Administrative Council Retreat. Dr. Cicchetti reported on his attendance, along with Assistant Superintendent
Rena Klebart, at the leadership institute at the Harvard Graduate School of Education this past week. Dr. Cicchetti reported on the participation of Rena Klebart, Brian Benigni, and Laurie Gjerpen at a three-day training program on developing common formative assessments at the Center for Performance Assessment in Denver. Dr. Cicchetti reported on the participation of four Berlin administrators in a workshop regarding differentiating instruction.

Mr. Brochu thanked those Board members who met in Executive Session a few weeks ago for their participation in the discussion regarding the Superintendent’s evaluation. Mr. Brochu reported it was a worthwhile meeting and a kick off to the Board’s own discussion concerning the Board’s self-evaluation and the direction the Board is going in as a district.

III. AUDIENCE OF CITIZENS

Nothing to report.

IV. CONSENT AGENDA

1. Resignations

Matthew Pace, Assistant Principal at Berlin High School, has submitted his letter of resignation to be effective July 13, 2007. Mr. Pace has accepted a position as Assistant Principal at Conard High School in West Hartford.

Roszena Sutton, Supervisor of Special Education, has submitted her letter of resignation to be effective August 3, 2007. Ms. Sutton has accepted a position as Assistant Principal at Conard High School in West Hartford.

Moved by Ms. Rochette, seconded by Ms. O’Donnell-Moss, to approve the consent agenda as presented.

FAVOR:     ALL  

MOTION CARRIED:  5:0

V. INFORMATION AND REPORTS

1. Report on Food Services Program

Due to the absence, due to illness, of Timothy Prosinski, the Director of Food Services, he and Roman Czuchta, Director of Business Operations, will present the final budget report for the Food Services Program for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2007 at the August 20, 2007 meeting.

B. Educational Specifications (Statement of Need) for New High School

Board Secretary John Richards reported no action was taken at the July 10, 2007 Town Council meeting regarding educational specifications for the new high school. The Council tabled the item because the full Council was not present and because they wanted to check the Charter to determine the proper protocol regarding the Statement of Need and have time for Council members to forward questions to the Town Manager. The Council also indicated it did not have time to review the documents. Mr. Richards informed the Board that the Statement of Need was delivered to the Town Manager on Friday, June 29.

Mr. Czuchta reported that the Council may have questions for the Board prior to its next meeting of July 24, 2007; however, as of this date, nothing has been received from the Council.

VI. RECOMMENDED ACTION – PART I

A. New Policies and Revisions – 2nd Reading – Handbook Policies

At the June 25, 2007 meeting, Board members participated in a first reading of these new policies and revisions. The Board was provided with a set of new and revised policies that reflect the recommendations made by Board members at that time for the Board’s consideration and action so that the new policies and revisions can be included in the 2007-08 handbooks.  As requested, only the policies and not the regulations were included for this agenda. 

The policies in the set are those typically included in student/parent and staff handbooks, which are distributed at the beginning of the school year.  Since so many of the existing Board policies are out of compliance and/or do not reflect current practice, it was the recommendation of the Board’s attorney that the Board of Education move forward and approve these policies as a batch until the Board could initiate a more comprehensive review of all policies.  The policies included in the batch are model policies from Shipman & Goodwin. 

The set consisted of the following policies:

• Notification Concerning Asbestos Management Plans – Policy ECB

• Non-Discrimination (Students) – Policy JB

• Policy Regarding Pesticide Application on School Property – Policy ECBA

• Policy Regarding Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 – Policy JBA

• Student Discipline – Policy JFCJ

• Student Privacy – Policy JP

• Bullying Behavior in the Schools – Policy JFCK

• Confidentiality and Access to Student Records – Policy JO

• Policy Regarding Sex Discrimination and Sexual Harassment (Students) – Policy JFH

• Student Attendance and Truancy – Policy JE

• Administration of Student Medications in the Schools – Policy JHCD

• Policy Regarding Search and Seizure – Policy JFG

• Student Dress – Policy JFCA

• Prohibition Against Smoking - Policy ECA

• Drug and Alcohol Use By Students – Policy JFCH

• Policy Regarding Student Use of the District’s Computer Systems and Internet Safety - Policy JFAB

• Field Trips – Policy IICA

Moved by Ms. O’Donnell-Moss, seconded by Mr. Richards, to approve the above handbook policies as presented.

Ms. Erickson, in response to her questions raised at the June 25, 2007 meeting, appreciated the administration’s efforts in providing a summary statement in the beginning of the Student Dress - Policy JFCA addressing why student dress is so important. In response to Ms. Erickson’s question concerning the specific nature of the Student Dress Policy concerning items students are prohibited from wearing, Dr. Cicchetti indicated this policy is one recommended by Shipman & Goodwin and tends to be more inclusive so that principals will have the prerogative to assign appropriate student discipline. In response to Ms. Rochette’s question regarding the policy being applied consistently at the three elementary schools, Dr. Cicchetti indicated the three elementary principals met to discuss the policy’s contents and the implementation of this policy across the three schools.

Ms. Butler responded to Ms. Erickson’s questions concerning Administration of Student Medication in the Schools – Policy JHCD and students who are able to self administer medication.

 

FAVOR:     ALL  

MOTION CARRIED:  5:0

B. New Policy – 2nd Reading – Policy JHCE (previously listed as JHGA) –

Food Allergies

At the June 25, 2007 meeting, Board members participated in a first reading of this new policy and regulations. The Board was provided with a copy of the new policy for the Board’s consideration and action so that the policy can be included in the 2007-08 handbooks. 

Moved by Mr. Richards, seconded by Ms. O’Donnell-Moss, to approve the new Board Policy JHCE as presented.

FAVOR:     ALL  

MOTION CARRIED:  5:0

C. Personnel Not Covered By Collective Bargaining

Dr. Cicchetti reported that the Board is being presented with a proposal for the salaries for continuation of employment for 2007-08 for personnel not covered by collective bargaining.  Mr. Richards noted that the Board’s Resources and Capacity-building Committee reviewed and discussed the proposal at its meeting earlier this evening. Dr. Cicchetti provided the Board with the proposal, which serves as an addendum to the Board’s action taken on June 25, 2007.

Moved by Ms. Erickson, seconded by Ms. Mancini, to approve the proposed salaries for personnel not covered by collective bargaining and issue them contracts for the 2007-2008 school year.

FAVOR:     ALL  

MOTION CARRIED:  6:0; including President Gary Brochu

VII. EXECUTIVE SESSION

A. Update of CHRO Complaint Status

B. Personnel Item Related to Supervisor of Special Education Position and

Vacancy

C. Evaluation of the Superintendent of Schools

At 7:38 p.m., a motion was made by Ms. Rochette, seconded by Ms. O’Donnell-Moss, to go into Executive Session to discuss an update of CHRO complaint status; personnel item related to Supervisor of Special Education position and vacancy; and evaluation of the Superintendent of Schools.

FAVOR:        ALL

MOTION CARRIED:  5:0

In attendance for Executive Session were Board members Brochu, Erickson, Mancini, O’Donnell-Moss, Richards and Rochette, as well as Superintendent Cicchetti. Mr. Czuchta was present.for the first executive session item, along with Board attorney Nicole Dorman. Mr. Recck joined the executive session at 7:45 p.m.

Mr. Czuchta and attorney Dorman departed at 8:20 p.m., at the end of the first item.

Mrs. Margaret Butler, Director of Pupil Personnel Services, joined the executive session at 8:20 p.m., for the second item.

At 10:00 p.m., Mrs. Butler and Superintendent Cicchetti departed, at the end of the second item.

At 11:20 p.m., a motion was made by Mr. Recck, seconded by Mrs. Erickson, to return to regular session.

FAVOR: ALL

MOTION CARRIED:  6:0

VIII. RECOMMENDED ACTION – PART II

D. Anticipated Election of Superintendent to New Three-Year Term

As stipulated in the Superintendent’s contract, the Board of Education shall decide, in accordance with the provisions of 10-157 of the General Statutes, whether to elect the Superintendent to a new three-year term.

Moved by Mrs. O’Donnell-Moss, seconded by Mrs. Erickson, that the Board of Education elect Michael T. Cicchetti to a new three-year term as Superintendent of Schools for the period July 1, 2007 through June 30, 2010, subject to the finalization of the terms of his contract.

FAVOR: ALL

MOTION CARRIED:  7:0, including Board President Gary Brochu

IX. ADJOURNMENT

Moved by Mr. Recck, seconded by Mrs. Rochette, to adjourn the meeting at 11:25 p.m.

FAVOR:     ALL  

MOTION CARRIED:  6:0

 

Respectfully submitted,

John M. Richards, Secretary, Berlin Board of Education

Regular Meeting Minutes - August 20, 2007

 

BERLIN BOARD OF EDUCATION

August 20, 2007

MINUTES

REGULAR MEETING

Attendance: Gary Brochu

Julie Erickson

William Lutz

Diane Mancini

Kathleen O’Donnell-Moss

Christopher Puzio

Anthony Recck

John Richards

Rachel Rochette

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

I. CALL TO ORDER

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

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

IV. PERSONNEL

Anticipated Appointment of Human Resources Director

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

FAVOR: ALL

MOTION CARRIED: 9:0; including President Brochu

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

II. BOARD AND ADMINISTRATIVE COMMUNICATIONS

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

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

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

Ms. Rochette reported on the cafeteria negotiations.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Recognition of Retirement – Estelle Kulak

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

 

III. AUDIENCE OF CITIZENS

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

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

IV. PERSONNEL

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

V. CONSENT AGENDA

1. Approval of Minutes

1. Regular Meeting of June 25, 2007

2. Regular Meeting of July 16, 2007

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

1. Resignations

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

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

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

FAVOR: ALL

MOTION CARRIED: 8:0

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

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

FAVOR: ALL

MOTION CARRIED: 8:0

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

VII. RECOMMENDED ACTION

C. Textbook Adoption

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

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

FAVOR: ALL

MOTION CARRIED: 8:0

VI. INFORMATION AND REPORTS

1. Report on Food Services Program

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

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

VII. RECOMMENDED ACTION

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

Schools

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

 

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

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

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

FAVOR: ALL

MOTION CARRIED: 8:0

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

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

FAVOR: ALL

MOTION CARRIED: 8:0

VI. INFORMATION AND REPORTS (cont.)

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

School

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

C. Board Self Evaluation

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

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

VI. INFORMATION AND REPORTS

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

1. Activity Fund Reports

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

June 30, 2007

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

June 30, 2007

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

These reports were noted with interest.

G. Final Report – 2006/2007 Fiscal Year

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

VII. RECOMMENDED ACTION

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

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

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

FAVOR: ALL

MOTION CARRIED: 8:0

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

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

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

VII. EXECUTIVE SESSION

Status Report – CHRO Claim

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

FAVOR: ALL

MOTION CARRIED: 8:0

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

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

FAVOR: ALL

MOTION CARRIED: 8:0

IX. ADJOURNMENT

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

FAVOR: ALL

MOTION CARRIED: 8:0

Respectfully submitted,

John M. Richards, Secretary

Berlin Board of Education

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

Regular Meeting Minutes - September 10, 2007

BERLIN BOARD OF EDUCATION

September 10, 2007

MINUTES

REGULAR MEETING

Attendance: Gary Brochu

Julie Erickson

William Lutz

Diane Mancini

Kathleen O’Donnell-Moss

Christopher Puzio

Anthony Recck

John Richards

Rachel Rochette

Also in attendance: Superintendent of Schools Dr. Michael Cicchetti; Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction Rena Klebart; Director of Business Operations Roman Czuchta; Director of Pupil Personnel Services Margaret Butler; Principal of Griswold School Laurie Gjerpen; Principal of McGee Middle School Brian Benigni; Principal of Willard School Robert J. Sullivan II; Principal of Berlin High School George Synnott; and Assistant Principal of Griswold School Eric Carbone.

I. CALL TO ORDER

Mr. Brochu called the meeting to order at 7:12 p.m. in the Board of Education (“the Board”) meeting room at 238 Kensington Road, Berlin, CT. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited and a moment of silence was observed.

II. BOARD AND ADMINISTRATIVE COMMUNICATIONS

Ms. O’Donnell-Moss reported on her attendance at Sport’s Night at the high school, where Jim Day went into great detail on the policy changes for participation in sports at the high school.

Mr. Puzio acknowledged the leadership of Timothy Prosinski, Director of Food Services, and his vigilance in responding to potential tainted food alerts, as they occur.

Mr. Richards reported on a recent transportation hearing, and the hearing process.

Ms. Butler reported on the institutes that were held for staff in Math, Science and Social Studies over the summer, wherein Berlin certified several staff members could become “highly qualified” under the No Child Left Behind Act as a result of their participation in these workshops. Ms. Butler reported Ms. Klebart and she have begun working with the elementary staff looking at AYP (adequate yearly progress) and how services are delivered, particularly in the Special Education Department. Over the course of the school year, Ms. Butler and Ms. Klebart will be studying the results of last year’s mastery tests and looking at the special education program’s design.

Mr. Czuchta reported he is working with the Town’s financial department in putting together an RFP for a new financial software package that will be used by both the Town and the Board of Education to be implemented July, 2008. Also, Mr. Czuchta reported he heard from the Town Manager’s office this date that the Town Manager will be recommending authorization be given to draft bonding language, to be put before the Town Council on September 18, 2007, which includes capital projects related to safety issues at the schools. Mr. Czuchta reported on transportation issues related to the opening of school.

Ms. Klebart reported on the six seminars new teachers will be participating in, beginning this Friday, as part of their ongoing orientation to the district. Ms. Klebart reported on the Fall Teacher Academy, which will highlight the expertise of Berlin’s teaching staff. Ms. Klebart reported the first of three sessions for professional development, combined with the high school and the middle school, will begin tomorrow, focusing on reading in the content area and what secondary staff can do to improve reading strategies.

Dr. Cicchetti also acknowledged the leadership of Timothy Prosinski, Director of Food Services, and his awareness of food scares and recalls. He credited Roman Czuchta for his leadership of the interviewing process that identified Mr. Prosinski as a candidate. Dr. Cicchetti reported on his meeting with the Rotary Club and a project they have been working on, together with Ms. Klebart, wherein every third grade student will receive a dictionary. Dr. Cicchetti reported on the successful opening day of school and credited all the work the administrators did leading up to the opening day.

Mr. Brochu reported on the convocation, the opening day of school, and the open house at Hubbard School. Mr. Brochu reported, for this upcoming election, the Board will be sending an invitation to all Town Council candidates and Board of Education candidates for a tour of the schools on October 4, 2007. Mr. Brochu announced the candidates for the Board of Education have been finalized. The candidates are Julie Erickson, Kathy O’Donnell-Moss and Michelle Hartel.

III. AUDIENCE OF CITIZENS

Nothing to report.

IV. PERSONNEL

A. Anticipated Appointment of Supervisor of Special Education

Moved by Ms. Mancini, seconded by Ms. O’Donnell-Moss, that the Board of Education appoint Linda Holian to the position of Supervisor of Special Education effective October 1, 2007.

FAVOR: ALL

MOTION CARRIED: 9:0; including President Brochu

1. Retirement

Dr. Cicchetti presented the notice of Mr. Thomas Collis’s intention to retire as instructional support teacher at Mary E. Griswold and Emma Hart Willard Schools, effective June 30, 2008.

Moved by Ms. Rochette, seconded by Mr. Puzio, to accept the retirement of Mr. Thomas Collis, instructional support teacher at Mary E. Griswold and Emma Hart Willard Schools, effective June 30, 2008. Also to thank him for the thirty-five years of service he has provided to educating the youth of Berlin and to wish him a long, happy, and healthy retirement.

FAVOR: ALL

MOTION CARRIED: 8:0

V. CONSENT AGENDA

1. Approval of Minutes - Regular Meeting of August 20, 2007

1. Payment of Bills – Period ending August 31, 2007

Moved by Ms. O’Donnell-Moss, seconded by Mr. Recck, to approve the consent agenda as presented.

FAVOR: ALL

MOTION CARRIED: 8:0

At this time, items VI. B., C., and D. were moved up in the agenda. Hearing no objection, these items were addressed.

VI. INFORMATION AND REPORTS

B. Activity Fund Reports

1. Berlin High School Enterprise Fund – Period ending July 31, 200

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

These were noted with interest.

C. Educational Specifications for New High School – Status Report

Resources and Capacity-building Committee Chairperson John Richards and Director of Business Operations Roman Czuchta indicated there was nothing new to report.

D. Technology Bond – Status Report

Director of Business Operations Roman Czuchta reported on a meeting that took place on August 30, 2007 with Dr. Steven Arnoff, educational consultant, John Pajor, and David Evon wherein more information concerning potentially using the network/computer system for phone service as well as internet connection was gathered. Dr. Arnoff will be providing a report within the week and once received, the group will reconvene. Mr. Czuchta updated the Board on the rewiring project at Hubbard and Griswold Schools.

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

VII. RECOMMENDED ACTION

New Policy JFCL - Code of Conduct for Athletics Participation – Second

Reading and Adoption

A first reading of this policy was conducted at the August 20, 2007, Board of Education meeting. Accompanying the agenda was a revised copy of the policy reflecting the revisions that Board members and administrators identified at the August 20 meeting. Also enclosed was a copy of page 5 that details the changes that were made.

Moved by Ms. Erickson, seconded by Ms. Mancini, to adopt new policy JFCL – Code of Conduct for Athletics Participation as presented.

FAVOR: ALL

MOTION CARRIED: 9:0; including President Brochu

VI. INFORMATION AND REPORTS

A. Harvard Institute Training: Redefining Data Teams

Superintendent Michael Cicchetti and Assistant Superintendent Rena Klebart participated in a Harvard Institute for School Leadership: Leadership for Large-Scale Improvement on July 8-15, 2007. The institute was designed for school leaders and district teams to develop the skills and strategies necessary to build capacity and guide large-scale school improvement. The program description stated:

“The institute provides a flexible framework for leading school improvement efforts in the dual contexts of external pressure and internal commitments to progress. While interacting with Harvard faculty and practitioners from across the country, participants explore the challenges faced by educators working to achieve instruction improvement and cultural shifts in their schools and districts. Four overarching goals provide the foundation for the institute.

• improving instructional practice

• building internal capacity

• using assessments more effectively

• enhancing student outcomes”

These goals are very consistent with the priorities that have been identified by the Board and administration through their collaborative continuous improvement work. Dr. Cicchetti and Ms. Klebart highlighted certain aspects of their training, shared a PowerPoint presentation of their final project, Redefining Data Teams, and answered questions from the Board. A copy of the presentation was provided to the Board. Also included was one of the readings from the institute, Getting Beyond Benchmark: Richmond Faces the School Improvement Plateau. It presents a case study of the Richmond, Virginia Public Schools, conducted through the Harvard Graduate School of Education, and their continuous improvement efforts over the past five years. While Richmond and Berlin are fairly dissimilar communities, there is much in common with respect to the process used to ensure greater student achievement and success. The Board engaged in discussion of the information presented.

VIII. ADJOURNMENT

Moved by Ms. Mancini, seconded by Ms. Rochette, to adjourn the meeting at 9:32 p.m.

FAVOR: ALL

MOTION CARRIED: 8:0

Respectfully submitted,
John M. Richards
Secretary, Berlin Board of Education

Regular Meeting Minutes - September 24, 2007

BERLIN BOARD OF EDUCATION
September 24, 2007
MINUTES
REGULAR MEETING

Attendance:      Gary Brochu          
        Julie Erickson
        William Lutz                 
        Diane Mancini                
        Kathleen O’Donnell-Moss     
        Christopher Puzio(Absent)            
        Anthony Recck(Absent)
        John Richards                
        Rachel Rochette            

Also in attendance:  Superintendent of Schools Dr. Michael Cicchetti; Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction Rena Klebart; Director of Business Operations Roman Czuchta; Principal of Griswold School Laurie Gjerpen; Principal of Willard School Robert J. Sullivan II; Principal of Hubbard School Alfred Souza; Principal of McGee Middle School Brian Benigni; Principal of Berlin High School George Synnott; Instructional Support Teacher of Berlin High School Janet Parlato; and Administrative Intern at Berlin High School Cheryl Gonzalez.  

I.    CALL TO ORDER

Mr. Brochu called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. in the Board of Education (“the Board”) meeting room at 238 Kensington Road, Berlin, CT.  The Pledge of Allegiance was led by student, Brian Stelmaszek.  A moment of silence was observed.

II.    BOARD AND ADMINISTRATIVE COMMUNICATIONS

Ms. Erickson reported she is very excited about the Fall Teacher Academy and indicated her plans to attend a couple of the classes to help with her own professional development as a Board member.

Ms. O’Donnell-Moss reported the Berlin Education Council is meeting for the first time this year on Wednesday.

Ms. Mancini reported she is also excited about the Fall Teacher Academy and also plans to attend a couple of the classes.  

Mr. Richards reported on his attendance at the open houses at McGee Middle School and Griswold School on behalf of the Board of Education.  Mr. Richards reported on his meeting with Brian Benigni regarding data teams.

Mr. Czuchta reported on the new school security competitive grant the state has initiated, which will run for the next two years and provide approximately $5 million to schools to improve security at school entrances.  Mr. Czuchta reported on a very productive meeting held Wednesday with a subset of the Town’s Emergency Operations Committee.  Mr. Czuchta reported on the meeting that Dr. Cicchetti and he will be attending tomorrow morning with the Regional Inter-District Partnership Consortium.

Ms. Klebart reported on the combined high school-middle school professional development that took place last week regarding reading in the content area and how to obtain information from text.  The teachers will continue this work on October 3, 2007 with their reading consultants.  Ms. Klebart, in response to Mr. Brochu’s request, will provide the Board with appropriate materials so the Board can have an understanding and appreciation of the staff’s professional development. Ms. Klebart reported on the recent meeting with the Special Education teachers to address AYP issues.

Dr. Cicchetti reported on his attendance at the excellent open house programs at Griswold School and McGee Middle School.  Dr. Cicchetti reported today was Ms. Alberta Landino’s first day as Interim Assistant Principal at Berlin High School.  Dr. Cicchetti reported that Director of Pupil Personnel Services Margaret Butler was not able to be in attendance at tonight’s meeting as she is out of the state.

Mr. Brochu reported Town Council candidates and Board of Education candidates will tour the five schools on October 4.  Mr. Brochu reported on the Leadership, Accountability and Measurement Committee meeting held last week.  Mr. Brochu reminded the Board members of the CABE convention in November and also the Board’s evaluation special meeting on October 1.  Mr. Brochu reported the Board’s retreat is scheduled for October 19 -20, 2007.

III.    STUDENT PRESENTATION – HUBBARD SCHOOL

The presentation reflected the concept of continuous improvement and the school goal through instructional strategies and student work as implemented across K-5 classrooms.  Staff members and students from all grade levels (K-5) took part in presenting sample strategies and student work articulating the overarching school goal of making reader-text connections and student literacy.  A coherent, concise continuum of sample strategies (as presented by grade level staff) and student work (as presented by students) provided the audience with a focused illustration of the immediate instructional actions being taken within the first weeks of school that directly link to the concept of continuous improvement and the school goal of making reader-text connections and student literacy.  The following students presented:  Kindergarten – Julia Daddario and Xander DeVoe  – Teacher, Loretta DiPietro; Grade 1 – Zoe Bassett – Teacher, Jane Hubbard and Kyle Parisi – Teacher, Meg Nardelli; Grade 2 – Garrett Jacques – Teacher, Megan Sirois, Brian Stelmaszek – Teacher, Emily Moyer, Intern subbing and Jimmy Wicander  – Teacher, Melissa Cohen; Grade 3 – Marlen Paszkowski – Teacher, Jeff Tarigo and Nicholas Zuk – Teacher, Rebecca Lorch; Grade 4 – Taylor Budney – Teacher, Kim Waldron, Serena Gil – Teacher, Sue Zibell and Evan Cornwall – Teacher, Tim Maule; Grade 5 – Bryan Rozanski – Teacher, Sara Suranna and Sam Papacoda – Teacher, Holly Fusco.  

A short recess was taken from 7:31 p.m. to 7:39 p.m.

IV.    AUDIENCE OF CITIZENS

Nothing to report.

V.    PERSONNEL
Retirements

Dr. Cicchetti presented the notice of Mrs. Jeanne Danielson’s intention to retire as teacher of grade 1 at Emma Hart Willard School, effective June 30, 2008.

Moved by Ms. Rochette, seconded by Ms. Erickson, to accept the retirement of Mrs. Jeanne Danielson, teacher of grade 1 at Emma Hart Willard School, effective June 30, 2008.  Also, to thank her for the twenty years of service she has provided to educating the youth of Berlin and to wish her a long, happy, and healthy retirement.

FAVOR:     ALL  
MOTION CARRIED:  6:0

Dr. Cicchetti presented the notice of Mrs. Karen Tomlinson’s intention to retire as instructional support teacher at Mary E. Griswold School, effective January 1, 2008.

Moved by Ms. Mancini, seconded by Mr.  Lutz, to accept the retirement of Mrs. Karen Tomlinson, instructional support teacher at Mary E. Griswold School, effective January 1, 2008.  Also, to thank her for the twenty-two years of service she has provided to educating the youth of Berlin and to wish her a long, happy, and healthy retirement.

Mr. Richards commented that, because of Mrs. Tomlinson’s influence, he was encouraged to become a volunteer at his children’s school.  

FAVOR:     ALL  
MOTION CARRIED:  6:0

VI.    CONSENT AGENDA
A.     Approval of Minutes - Regular Meeting of September 10, 2007

B.     Field Trip – McGee Grade 8 – Washington, D.C. – April 15-18, 2008

Moved by Ms. O’Donnell-Moss, seconded by Ms. Erickson, to approve the consent agenda as presented.

FAVOR:     ALL  
MOTION CARRIED:  6:0

VII.     INFORMATION AND REPORTS
A.    NEASC Accreditation Process

Berlin High School Principal George Synnott, along with Instruction Support Teacher of Berlin High School Janet Parlato, provided a status report on the NEASC (New England Association of Schools and Colleges) accreditation process self-study and upcoming site visit October 21-24 as well as answered questions from the Board.  Specifically, they (1) highlighted the self-study work the high school has been involved in since March 2006; (2) reviewed components of the actual site visit; (3) described the importance of the high school’s mission statement and expectations; and (4) presented, as identified by the faculty, the strengths and needs that emerged from the seven NEASC standards reports. 

B.     Board of Education Goals and Indicators of Success

Accompanying the agenda was the proposed action plan that outlined activities and a timeline for developing Board of Education goals and indicators of success.  The action plan was designed to serve as a starting point for preliminary discussion, understanding that this discussion would continue in greater depth at the Board’s self-evaluation special meeting on October 1 and at future Board meetings.  As background, at the October 2006 Board of Education retreat, Board members and Administrative Council members initiated a discussion regarding indicators of success.  The session focused on determining ways in which the district could measure the progress of continuous improvement efforts and subsequently report that progress to the school community and greater Berlin community.  During the remainder of the 2006-07 school year, the Board’s Leadership, Accountability, and Measurement Committee extended the retreat discussion and discussed ways in which indicators could be identified and presented.  With the structure of continuous improvement more firmly established in the schools, and with the administrative team fully in place, the Board now has an excellent context within which to define its goals and related indicators of success.  This clearly has emerged as a priority for the Board from discussions at Board meetings and committee meetings throughout the previous school year and into this school year.  The Board engaged in discussion concerning developing goals and indicators of success, and the proposed activities and timeline.  

C.     District Testing Report

Assistant Superintendent Rena Klebart presented the spring 2007 Connecticut Mastery Test (CMT) Report for students in grades 3-8.  Board members were provided with a copy of the presentation.  Ms. Klebart explained that this is the second year for the fourth generation CMT testing; therefore, there it is possible to make a comparison to the previous year’s results.  Ms. Klebart reviewed the five performance levels by grade and content area, i.e. reading, writing, and mathematics.  Ms. Klebart and the Board discussed in detail Berlin’s ranking in the DRG (district reference group).   Ms. Klebart remarked that the results reflect positive movement in reading, writing and mathematics.  Ms. Klebart reviewed in detail the Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP) component of No Child Left Behind (NCLB), including the Safe Harbor Provision.  Ms. Klebart remarked that when considering whole-school performance, all Berlin schools met AYP standards.  Ms. Klebart reviewed the CMT results for subgroup of students with disabilities, noting that Willard School made AYP in Reading and McGee School made AYP in Mathematics and Reading under the Safe Harbor provision of NCLB for the subgroup of students with disabilities.  District administrators, Ms. Gjerpen, Mr. Benigni, Mr. Souza, and Ms. Klebart presented both current and anticipated strategies that will be used to prepare students for the 2008 CMT administration.

Berlin High School Principal George Synnott, along with instructional support teacher Janet Parlato, presented results from the spring 2007 CAPT administration.  Board members were provided with a copy of the presentation as well as specific examples of CAPT questions and prompts from previous CAPT administrations.  The 2007 administration began the third generation of CAPT testing; therefore, comparisons to previous years’ results could not be made.  Ms. Parlato reviewed the testing changes.  The results were reviewed in detail, as well as strategies that will be used to prepare students for the 2008 CAPT administration.  Ms. Parlato reviewed Berlin’s ranking in the DRG.  Ms. Parlato noted the disparity between males and females in their performance, particularly in reading and writing, where females scored much higher than males and also noted there is not such a disparity in Math.       

Mr. Synnott also presented the Academic Profile Report for the Class of 2007, which contained student performance information for the SAT, the UCONN Early College Experience, and the Advanced Placement Program.  Principal Synnott highlighted sections of the report, including participation rates, longitudinal data, and gender comparisons.  

D.     Update – Educational Specifications for New High School

Director of Business Operations Roman Czuchta indicated there was nothing new to report and will probably not have an update until mid-November.   

E.    Technology Bond – Status Report

Director of Business Operations Roman Czuchta reported he received word today that the revised report from Dr. Steven Arnoff, educational consultant, will be available to the committee by October 5, 2007.  Mr. Czuchta is waiting to hear back from Dr. Arnoff as to a date he is available to meet with the Town-Wide Technology Committee after October 5, 2007.  Mr. Czuchta updated the Board on a connectivity problem at Griswold School concerning the Wide Area Network that has been occurring during the past several days.     

VIII.    EXECUTIVE SESSION
Discussion Relative to Negotiations – Head Custodians

At 10:13 p.m., a motion was made by Mr. Lutz, seconded by Ms. O’Donnell-Moss, to go into Executive Session to discuss materials relative to negotiations.    

FAVOR:        ALL
MOTION CARRIED:  6:0

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

At 10:23 p.m., a motion was made by Ms. Erickson, seconded by Ms. Rochette, to return to regular session.

FAVOR:    ALL
MOTION CARRIED:  6:0

IX.    ADJOURNMENT

Moved by Ms. Rochette, seconded by Ms. O’Donnell-Moss, to adjourn the meeting at 10:25  p.m.
 
FAVOR:         ALL  
MOTION CARRIED:  6:0

Respectfully submitted,



John M. Richards,
Secretary,
Berlin Board of Education

Regular Meeting Minutes - October 22, 2007

BERLIN BOARD OF EDUCATION

October 22, 2007

MINUTES

REGULAR MEETING

Attendance: Gary Brochu

Julie Erickson

William Lutz

Diane Mancini

Kathleen O’Donnell-Moss

Christopher Puzio

Anthony Recck(Absent)

John Richards

Rachel Rochette(Absent)

Also in attendance: Superintendent of Schools Dr. Michael Cicchetti; Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction Rena Klebart; Director of Business Operations Roman Czuchta; Director of Pupil Personnel Services Margaret Butler; and Principal of Griswold School Laurie Gjerpen.

 

The meeting was scheduled to begin at 7:00 p.m. The meeting was delayed until Mrs. Erickson, Mr. Lutz, Mr. Richards, and Mr. Czuchta could arrive after a transportation hearing at the Board offices was completed.

 

Prior to the start of the meeting, Paul Hutcheon, Director of Health for Central Connecticut Health District, provided an update, recommendations and information to the Board and audience of citizens as related to Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA). Several Griswold School parents were in attendance with their children, who were presenting as part of the Board meeting.

 

Also, prior to the start of the meeting the Griswold School student presentation took place wherein fifth-grade teacher, Ms. Lisa Michetti, and five of her students simulated a book group discussion about the book Joey Pigza Loses Control. The students shared strategies that they use to answer open-ended questions. Also, the design of the book group facilitated the use of "CMT-like" language. The following students participated in the simulated book group discussion: Jimmy Bourgoin, Laura Cohen, Evan Hale, Kelsey Kozikowski, and Zack Martin.

I. CALL TO ORDER

Mr. Brochu called the meeting to order at 8:14 p.m. in the Margaret E. Griswold School, 133 Heather Lane, Kensington, CT. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited and a moment of silence was observed.

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

 

VI. INFORMATION AND REPORTS

A. Non-Traditional Educational Training (NET) Program and Work Study

Program

Berlin High School’s Vocational Educator, Casey Downes, provided an overview of the Work Study/Vocational program. These services are made available to students who have disabilities and are in need of training opportunities. Students participate in careers and/or vocational classes, senior transition activities, and sometimes work study. Ms. Downes discussed the students’ experiences in this component of the special education department and the importance of such programs in their transition.

NET, Non-Traditional Educational Training program, is an alternative setting housed at Berlin High School. It is designed to provide opportunities for students who have difficulty adjusting to the size, complexity, and/or structure of a comprehensive high school setting. As such, students present with a variety of talents as well as challenges. There are three components to the program: educational, vocational/work study, and counseling. Teachers Maureen Moylan and Kim Haskell, Social Worker Karen Smith, and Vocational Educator Ed Bratina presented an overview of this program. A former NET student was also in attendance to share with the Board her experiences and successes from this program.

II. BOARD AND ADMINISTRATIVE COMMUNICATIONS

 

Mr. Puzio reported on his attendance at the Board’s retreat on October 19 and 20, 2007.

 

Mr. Lutz reported on his attendance at the Board’s retreat on October 19 and 20, 2007.

 

Ms. Mancini reported on her attendance at the Board’s retreat on October 19 and 20, 2007.

 

Mr. Richards reported on his participation this Sunday at the start of the NEASC (New England Association of Schools and Colleges) accreditation process self-study and site visit. Mr. Richards commented on the Resources and Capacity-Building Committee’s attendance at the transportation hearing that started at 5 p.m. tonight, prior to this meeting.

Ms. Erickson reported on her attendance at the Board’s retreat on October 19 and 20, 2007. Ms. Erickson reported on her participation this Sunday at the start of the NEASC accreditation process self-study and site visit. Ms. Erickson apologized for missing the Griswold School student presentation due to her attendance at the transportation hearing.

Ms. O’Donnell-Moss reported on her attendance at the Board’s retreat on October 19 and 20, 2007 and her participation this Sunday at the start of the NEASC accreditation process self-study and site visit.

Mr. Czuchta reported on his attendance at the Board’s retreat October 19 and 20, 2007, commenting he found the Board’s retreat equally helpful for the administrative process.

Ms. Klebart reported on her attendance at the Board’s retreat October 19 and 20, 2007. Ms. Klebart reported on her meeting with NEASC’s Mission and Leadership Committee this morning.

Dr. Cicchetti reported on his participation this Sunday at the start of the NEASC accreditation process self-study and site visit and his meeting with NEASC’s Mission and Leadership Committee this morning. He commended Berlin High School Principal George Synnott for his opening presentation at Sunday’s reception. Dr. Cicchetti reported a long-term substitute has been hired for the high school music program and that person will begin tomorrow. Dr. Cicchetti reported on his attendance at the high school’s band rehearsal this morning, offering support for preparation of students for their upcoming Northern Regional auditions.

Mr. Brochu reported on his attendance at the Board’s retreat on October 19 and 20, 2007 and his participation this Sunday at the start of the NEASC accreditation process self-study and site visit.

III. STUDENT PRESENTATION – GRISWOLD SCHOOL

The student presentation took place this evening prior to the start of the Board meeting and is reflected above in the minutes prior to the Call to Order.

IV. AUDIENCE OF CITIZENS

 

Nothing to report.

 

V. CONSENT AGENDA

A. Approval of Minutes - Regular Meeting of October 9, 2007

 

B. Out-of-State Field Trip – BHS – Orlando, FL – April 20-24, 2008

 

Moved by Ms. Erickson, seconded by Ms. O’Donnell-Moss, to approve the consent agenda as presented.

FAVOR: ALL

MOTION CARRIED: 6:0

VI. INFORMATION AND REPORTS

A. Non-Traditional Educational Training (NET) Program and Work Study

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

B. Board of Education Retreat

Dr. Cicchetti reported to Board members that copies of the proposed Board of Education goals are at their places for consideration (see agenda item VII A). He also provided Cabinet members with copies of the goals and explained to cabinet members the process used to finalize the goals during the retreat. It is anticipated that the Board and cabinet members will continue their discussion and finalize initiatives and indicators of success for discussion at the December 10, 2007 Board of Education meeting.

C. Update – Educational Specifications for New High School

Director of Business Operations Roman Czuchta indicated there was nothing new to report.

D. Technology Bond – Status Report

Director of Business Operations Roman Czuchta indicated there was nothing new to report.

VII. RECOMMENDED ACTION

A. Board of Education Goals

 

Board members outlined and discussed in detail the four identified goal areas: Student Achievement; Communication; Facilities and Educational Adequacy; and Board Governance, which Board members finalized during the retreat on October 19 and 20, 2007.

Each of the identified goals is presented below.

Student Achievement – Goal: Each and every student in the Berlin Public Schools will achieve established, rigorous performance standards in all areas of student learning by becoming strategic readers, problem solvers, and critical thinkers.

Communication – Goal: The Berlin Board of Education will establish reciprocal communication that is accessible and understandable, and that unites all citizens around the belief that high quality public education is a community’s most valuable asset.

Facilities and Educational Adequacy – Goal: The Berlin Board of Education will ensure all students have the opportunity to learn and achieve in safe and educationally adequate facilities by meeting the needs of the district with respect to adequate space and the quality of learning environments.

Board Governance – Goal: The Berlin Board of Education will institutionalize a focus on continuous improvement leading to student achievement and student success through its development of policy, ongoing evaluation, and commitment to individual and Board professional growth.

Each goal was read by a different member of the Board and each member commented on aspects of the goal and the positive process that resulted in consensus being reached on these broad objectives.

Moved by Ms. Mancini, seconded by Mr. Lutz, that the Berlin Board of Education adopt its five-year goals for 2007-12, as presented.

 

FAVOR: ALL

MOTION CARRIED: 7:0; including President Brochu

 

VIII. ADJOURNMENT

 

Moved by Ms. Mancini, seconded by Mr. Richards, to adjourn the meeting at 9:56 p.m.

FAVOR: ALL

MOTION CARRIED: 6:0

Respectfully submitted,

 

 

 

 

John M. Richards

Secretary, Berlin Board of Education

 

 

(JMR:bjd original 10/23/07; Supt review 10/24; JMR final review 10/25)

Regular Meeting Minutes - October 9, 2007

 

BERLIN BOARD OF EDUCATION

October 9, 2007

MINUTES

REGULAR MEETING

Attendance: Gary Brochu

Julie Erickson

William Lutz

Diane Mancini

Kathleen O’Donnell-Moss

Christopher Puzio

Anthony Recck

John Richards

Rachel Rochette(Absent)

Also in attendance: Superintendent of Schools Dr. Michael Cicchetti; Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction Rena Klebart; Director of Business Operations Roman Czuchta; Director of Pupil Personnel Services Margaret Butler; Principal of Griswold School Laurie Gjerpen; Principal of Willard School Robert J. Sullivan II; Principal of Hubbard School Alfred Souza; Principal of McGee Middle School Brian Benigni; and Principal of Berlin High School George Synnott.

I. CALL TO ORDER

Mr. Brochu called the meeting to order at 7:08 p.m. in the Board of Education (“the Board”) meeting room at 238 Kensington Road, Berlin, CT. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited and a moment of silence was observed.

II. BOARD AND ADMINISTRATIVE COMMUNICATIONS

Ms. Klebart reported on the combined high school-middle school professional development that took place this date regarding reading in the content area. Ms. Klebart reported the second session of the Fall Teacher Academy will take place on Thursday, October 11, 2007.

Dr. Cicchetti commented on how proud he was of the middle school and high school bands and their performances at the Berlin Fair on Friday and Saturday.

Mr. Brochu reminded the Board members of the CABE convention in November. Mr. Brochu reported that, as a member of the Board of Directors, half of his registration fee for the convention will be paid by a grant. Mr. Brochu reported on the tour of the five schools that was provided to Town Council candidates on Thursday, October 4, 2007.

III. AUDIENCE OF CITIZENS

Ms. Mary Kathryn Williams, 165 Chamberlain Highway, Berlin, Connecticut, addressed the Board regarding her concerns over the selection of the novel, A Prayer for Owen Meany by John Irving, which was the mandatory summer reading for students entering 9^th grade.

Mr. David Evans, 1233 Worthington Ridge, Berlin, Connecticut, thanked the Board of Education for the invitation to the Town Council candidates and Board of Education candidates for the tour of the five schools on Thursday, October 4, 2007. Mr. Evans thanked the principals for their hospitality. Mr. Evans said his children attend Willard and it gave him an opportunity to see the other schools.

 

IV. PERSONNEL

Retirements

Dr. Cicchetti presented the notice of Ms. Christine Archer’s intention to retire as art coordinator at Berlin High School, effective June 30, 2008.

Moved by Mr. Puzio, seconded by Ms. Mancini, to accept the retirement of Ms. Christine Archer, art coordinator at Berlin High School, effective June 30, 2008. Also to thank her for the thirty-five years of service she has provided to educating the youth of Berlin and to wish her a long, happy, and healthy retirement.

FAVOR: ALL

MOTION CARRIED: 7:0

Dr. Cicchetti presented the notice of Ms. Louise Elliott’s intention to retire as library media specialist at Berlin High School, effective June 30, 2008.

Moved by Ms. Erickson, seconded by Mr. Recck, to accept the retirement of Ms. Louise Elliott, library media specialist at Berlin High School, effective June 30, 2008. Also to thank her for the sixteen years of service she has provided to educating the youth of Berlin and to wish her also a long, happy, and healthy retirement.

FAVOR: ALL

MOTION CARRIED: 7:0

Dr. Cicchetti presented the notice of Ms. Marabeth Grogan’s intention to retire as teacher of grade 2 at Emma Hart Willard School, effective June 30, 2008.

Moved by Ms. Mancini, seconded by Ms. O’Donnell-Moss, to accept the retirement of Ms. Marabeth Grogan, teacher of grade 2 at Emma Hart Willard School, effective June 30, 2008. Also to thank her for the twenty years of service she has provided to educating the youth of Berlin and to wish her a long, happy, and healthy retirement.

FAVOR: ALL

MOTION CARRIED: 7:0

Dr. Cicchetti presented the notice of Mrs. Marilyn Scanlan White’s intention to retire as reading consultant at Berlin High School, effective June 30, 2008.

Moved by Ms. O’Donnell-Moss, seconded by Mr. Puzio, to accept the retirement of Mrs. Marilyn Scanlan White, reading consultant at Berlin High School, effective June 30, 2008. Also to thank her for the twenty years of service she has provided to educating the youth of Berlin and to wish her a long, happy, and healthy retirement.

In response to Mr. Richards’ question concerning Ms. Scanlan White’s handwritten comments on her letter to the Board of Education of her intention to retire, Dr. Cicchetti explained Ms. Scanlan White’s plans are not to leave this work that she has done but to have an opportunity, possibly in Berlin, to contribute her expertise.

FAVOR: ALL

MOTION CARRIED: 7:0

Dr. Cicchetti presented the notice of Ms. Marsha Wilenski’s intention to retire as art teacher at Berlin High School, effective June 30, 2008.

Moved by Mr. Richards, seconded by Mr. Recck, to accept the retirement of Ms. Marsha Wilenski, art teacher at Berlin High School, effective June 30, 2008. Also to thank her for the thirty-five years of service she has provided to educating the youth of Berlin and to wish her a long, happy, and healthy retirement.

FAVOR: ALL

MOTION CARRIED: 7:0

V. CONSENT AGENDA

1. Approval of Minutes - Regular Meeting of September 24, 2007

1. Payment of Bills – Period ending September 30, 2007

C. Overnight Field Trip – BHS – Washington, D.C. – March 4-11, 2008

Moved by Ms. Mancini, seconded by Mr. Lutz, to approve the consent agenda as presented.

FAVOR: ALL

MOTION CARRIED: 7:0

VI. INFORMATION AND REPORTS

A. Activity Fund Reports

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

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

These reports were noted with interest.

B. Official 2007-2008 District Enrollment

Dr. Cicchetti highlighted the preliminary enrollment as of October 1, 2007, which was included in the Board’s packet of material. Dr. Cicchetti indicated at the elementary level, grade four was the largest class with 259 students. In terms of the middle school, the eighth grade class of 276 students is the largest class. At the high school, the senior class of 300 students is the largest. Dr. Cicchetti indicated there has been overall stability in the enrollment over the last couple of years as reported in the NESDEC study. In terms of projections, this does not take into account potential housing in town. The current K-12 enrollment is comparable to that of 1999. Dr. Cicchetti indicated a concern for Willard is the kindergarten class. Dr. Cicchetti reported that paraprofessional support has been discussed for the kindergarten class at Willard. While there are some pockets of larger class sizes, Dr. Cicchetti described the class sizes overall as very favorable.

C. Continuous Improvement Plan Presentation by Administrators

Principals from each of the schools have been asked to work with their faculty to analyze student performance data; specifically to identify areas of strength and areas in need of improvement. Based on this data, the faculty of each school has worked together to develop measurable school goals. Subsequently, each department and/or grade level team has developed department specific goals to support the school’s goal. In addition, individual teachers have worked with their administrators to develop individual professional goals that are linked to departmental needs as well as the needs of their particular classes.

As part of the Board presentation, principals provided an overview of the continuous improvement process and shared how student performance data was used to establish the school goal, the department and grade level team goals/action plans, and individual goals/action plans. They demonstrated how each of the plans is linked to individual school goals and how the action plans outlined implement those goals. Key to the success of the district’s continuous improvement efforts is creating time for teams of teachers to implement steps of their action plan, analyze student performance data, and together determine instructional strategies that will lead to greater student achievement and success.

D. Board of Education Goals and Indicators of Success

As a follow up to the Board’s October 1 self-evaluation meeting, Board members revisited the four identified goal areas: Student Achievement and Success; Board Governance; Facilities and Educational Adequacy; and Communication. Board committees reported on their discussions at the meetings that took place prior to the Board meeting. Board members discussed the next steps in the process of finalizing the Board of Education goals, including the formation of an ad hoc goals committee and the planning of work to be accomplished at the Board’s retreat October 19-20.

E. Update – Educational Specifications for New High School

Director of Business Operations Roman Czuchta indicated there was nothing new to report.

F. Technology Bond – Status Report

Director of Business Operations Roman Czuchta reported he is awaiting the revised report from Dr. Steven Arnoff, educational consultant, and is waiting to hear back from Dr. Arnoff as to a date he is available to meet with the Town-Wide Technology Committee. Mr. Czuchta updated the Board on the continuing connectivity problem at Griswold School concerning the Wide Area Network.

VII. RECOMMENDED ACTION

A. Contract Ratification – Berlin Association of Head Custodians

Negotiations with the Berlin Association of Head Custodians were recently completed and a tentative agreement was reached. Mr. Czuchta summarized the tentative agreement reached with the Association of Head Custodians, summarizing the wage increases, insurance benefits, premium contributions and vacations. Subject to ratification by the Berlin Association of Head Custodians, it is recommended that the Board approve the tentative agreement.

Moved by Ms. Erickson, seconded by Mr. Recck, to approve the tentative agreement reached between the Berlin Board of Education and the Berlin Association of Head Custodians.

FAVOR: ALL

MOTION CARRIED: 8:0, including President Gary Brochu

B. Berlin Board of Education Resolutions Concerning Section 403(b) Contract Exchanges

On July 26, 2007, the IRS issued new regulations that govern 403(b) contracts (Tax Sheltered Annuities). Although many of the changes will not apply until January 1, 2009, one important rule change regarding Contract Exchanges took effect on September 25, 2007. Board approval is needed for resolutions that affect contract exchanges in order to comply with these new regulations. Mr. Czuchta summarized the new restrictions regarding Exchange of TSA/403(b) Contracts, which were provided to the Board.

Moved by Ms. Erickson, seconded by Ms. Mancini, to approve Resolutions affecting 403(b) Contract Exchanges as presented.

FAVOR: ALL

MOTION CARRIED: 7:0

VIII. EXECUTIVE SESSION

At 9:43 p.m., a motion was made by Ms. Mancini, seconded by Mr. Lutz, to go into Executive Session to discuss materials relative to cafeteria negotiations.

FAVOR: ALL

MOTION CARRIED: 7:0

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

At 10:00 p.m., a motion was made by Mr. Recck , seconded by Mr. Lutz , to return to regular session.

FAVOR: ALL

MOTION CARRIED: 7:0

IX. ADJOURNMENT

Moved by Ms. O’Donnell-Moss , seconded by Ms. Mancini , to adjourn the meeting at 10:05 p.m.

 

FAVOR: ALL

MOTION CARRIED:

Respectfully submitted,

John M. Richards, Secretary

Berlin Board of Education

(JMR: bjd; bjd 10/10/07 original; Supt review 10/16/07; JMR final review 10/18/07)