SCHOOL BOARD OF PINELLAS COUNTY, FLORIDA

REGULAR MEETING DECEMBER 11, 2001

The School Board of Pinellas County, Florida, met in Regular Session on Tuesday, December 11, 2001, at 1:00 P.M. in the Conference Hall of the Administration Building, 301 4th Street SW, Largo, Florida. Present: Mr. Lee Benjamin, Chairman; Mrs. Nancy N. Bostock, Vice Chairman; Mrs. Carol J. Cook, Mrs. E. Jane Gallucci, Dr. Max R. Gessner, and, Mrs. Linda S. Lerner, Members; Dr. J. Howard Hinesley, Superintendent; Dr. John Stewart, Deputy Superintendent; Mr. Lanse Johansen, Chief Business Officer; and, Mr. John Bowen, School Board Attorney.

Mr. Thomas C. Todd was not present. Therefore all votes will reflect a total of six voting members.

The Invocation was given by Dr. Ronald Stone, Associate Superintendent for Human Resources and Public Affairs. This was followed by the Pledge of Allegiance and a video of Pinellas County students presenting a patriotic tribute.

Introduction of the following representatives of professional and community organizations was given by Dr. Ronald Stone, Associate Superintendent for Human Resources & Public Affairs: Carolyn Bluett, PCCPTA; Carolanne Vann and Rachel Hogue, Student Rights & Responsibilities Committee, St. Petersburg High School; Pat Scarberry, DMAC; Richard Cash, Pinellas County for a Complete Arts Education; Cathy Athanson, Operations Team; Natashia Gregoire, The Tampa Tribune; and, Kelly Ryan Gilmer, The St. Petersburg Times.

It was moved by Mrs. Gallucci and seconded by Mrs. Cook to adopt the agenda.

DELETE: “C” PRESENTERS OR SPECIAL ORDER

CONSENT #17, 19f

ADD: “E” PRESENTERS OR SPECIAL ORDER – Recognition of Specific Staff Members, North Ward Elementary

Dr. Hinesley informed the Board that Mr. Bruce Bauer, in Item #8, has requested an administrative hearing and requested that the Board approve the alternative reflecting that request.

The motion to adopt the agenda, as amended, was carried with a 6-0 vote.

A. Carolanne Vann and Rachel Hogue, Students Rights and Responsibilities Committee representatives from St. Petersburg High School, presented information on activities and achievements at their school.

B. Ms. Elaine Cutler, Assistant Superintendent, Elementary Education and Student Services presented Certificates of Commendation to the following twelve school nurses for Achievement of National Certification in School Nursing:

Marie Amato Itinerant nurse in the general school health program

Mary Bronk Itinerant nurse in the general school health program

Joan Champion Itinerant nurse in the exceptional student education program

Edna Ciminera Itinerant nurse in the exceptional student education program

Eleanor Davis School-based nurse at Walsingham Elementary

Laura Dantzscher Coordinator, School Health Services

Diana Dameron Supervisor, School Health Services

Marcia Izzo Coordinator, School Health Services

Karen Maloney School-based nurse at Riviera Middle School

Mary Wheeler-McFarland Itinerant nurse in the exceptional student education program

Angela Stone Itinerant nurse in the general school health program

Rebecca Thonen School-based nurse at Paul B. Stephens

The nurses were greeted and congratulated by the Board Members.

C. Dr. Ron Stone, Associate Superintendent for Human Resources & Public Affairs, introduced the following 2001 SUNSPRA “Sunshine Medallion” Winners:

CATEGORY SCHOOL OR DEPARTMENT

Community Involvement Mt Vernon Elementary School “Connecting

To Parents Through Technology” – Valerie

White, Charla Pinnow, Sherrie Lee

Crisis Communications Campus Police Department – “Crisis Plan

Packet” – Barbara Baugher

Video Productions WPDS-TV Channel 14, “Outstanding Educators” – Brian Abe, Elizabeth McAndrew

Public Service Announcement WPDS-TV Channel 14, “Proud To Be An

American” – Linda Loden, Larry Osterman

The recipients were greeted and congratulated by the Board Members.

D. Dr. Ron Stone, Associate Superintendent for Human Resources and Public Affairs, explained that through the efforts of three individuals at North Ward Elementary, a nine-year-old child was identified as a missing/abducted child and, by the end of the school day, was placed in protective custody by the Clearwater Police Department. The mother, who had attempted to falsify the child’s information in order to enroll her at North Ward was arrested, and the child was reunited with her father the following day. The following employees of North Ward Elementary were presented to the Board Members for recognition:

Debbie Gehardt, Data Prep Clerk

DeAnne Whetstone, Third Grade Teacher

Kathy Wickett, Acting Administrator

Ms. Gerhardt, Ms. Whetstone and Ms. Wickett were greeted by the School Board Members and presented with Certificates of Appreciation.

1. Mrs. Bostock, who chaired the Board’s subcommittee to review the Superintendent’s contract, presented a brief overview of the subcommittee’s proposal.

1a. It was moved by Mrs. Bostock and seconded by Dr. Gessner to approve the Amendment to the Superintendent’s Contract, as presented.

Mr. Van Brown addressed the Board to state that he called earlier today and was informed that the insurance policy to be purchased was selected by Dr. Hinesley. Mr. Brown stated that his company could offer a better policy and a lower premium.

Dr. Hinesley stated that he appreciated the Board’s unanimous vote at a previous meeting to renew his contract and that he understands that the Board’s decision on the terms of the contract come at a difficult time. Dr. Hinesley discussed the various issues he considered before presenting his requests and expressed his appreciation to the Board for entertaining his requests.

Board Members each read their prepared statements to clarify their individual concerns or support for the proposed agreement.

1b. The motion to renew the Superintendent’s contract, as presented, was carried with a 4-2 vote, Mrs. Gallucci and Mrs. Lerner voting against having indicated their inability to support the benefit package requested by Dr. Hinesley.

Dr. Hinesley thanked the Board Members for their support. Dr. Hinesley stated that the Board has his commitment that he has no interest in bothering the cash value of the life insurance policy provided in this contract.

2. It was moved by Dr. Gessner and seconded by Mrs. Gallucci to adopt the proposed policy Amendments to Policy 2.03 Membership of the School Board.

Dr. Hinesley stated that there were no changes from the first reading and recommended approval of the Amendments.

2a. The motion to approve to adopt the proposed policy Amendments to Policy 2.03 Membership of the School Board carried with a 6- 0 vote.

3. It was moved by Mrs. Gallucci and seconded by Dr. Gessner to adopt the proposed policy Amendments to Policy 2.21 District Monitoring and Advisory Committee (DMAC).

Dr. Hinesley stated that there were no changes from the first reading and recommended approval of the Amendments.

3a. The motion to adopt the proposed policy Amendments to Policy 2.21 District Monitoring and Advisory Committee (DMAC) was carried with a 6-0 vote.

4. It was moved by Mrs. Gallucci and seconded by Dr. Gessner to adopt the proposed policy Amendments to Policy 7.30 Network/Internet Acceptable Use Agreement.

Dr. Hinesley stated that there were no changes from the first reading and recommended approval of the Amendments. Dr. Hinesley reminded the Board that they will be holding a workshop on January 8 to discuss related issues.

4a. The motion to adopt the proposed policy Amendments to Policy 7.30 Network/Internet Acceptable Use Agreement carried with a 6-0 vote.

5. It was moved by Mrs. Gallucci, seconded by Dr. Gessner and carried with a 6-0 vote to approve the Consent Agenda, as amended.

5a. To approve the minutes of the Regular School Board Meeting of November 13, 2001; the Organizational Meeting of November 20, 2001; and, the Workshop of November 20, 2001, as submitted.

5b. To approve to Execute Contracts and to Pay Appropriate Advance Deposits for the 6^th Annual Baldrige in Education Conference.

5c. To approve the Personnel Actions as Recommended by the Superintendent. (Copy to be found in Supplemental Minute Book #95.)

5d. To approve to suspend Mr. Bruce Bauer, Bus Driver, Transportation Department, without pay, pending the outcome of the administrative hearing, effective December 12, 2001.

5e. To approve to Accept the Stipulation to Suspend Mr. Mark Foster, Teacher, Tyrone Middle School, for Three (3) days Without Pay. (Copy to be found in Supplemental Minute Book #95.)

5f. To approve Accept the Stipulation to Suspend Mr. Ernest Givins, Campus Monitor, Bay Point Middle School, for Three (3) days Without Pay. (Copy to be found in Supplemental Minute Book #95.)

5g. To approve to Accept the Stipulation to Suspend Mr. Patrick Grzegorczyk, Plant Operator, Plumb Elementary School, for Three (3) days Without Pay. (Copy to be found in Supplemental Minute Book #95.)

5h. To approve to Accept the Stipulation to Suspend Mr. Willie Hopkins, Teacher, East Lake High School, for Three (3) days Without Pay. (Copy to be found in Supplemental Minute Book #95.)

5i. To approve to Dismiss Mr. Corzell Lee, Head Plant Operator, Bay Point Elementary School. (Copy to be found in Supplemental Minute Book #95.)

5j. To approve to Accept the Stipulation to Suspend Mr. Stanley Mercier, Bus Driver, Transportation Department, for Three (3) days Without Pay. (Copy to be found in Supplemental Minute Book #95.)

5k. To approve to Accept the Stipulation to Suspend Ms. Frankie Murphree, Teacher, Morgan Fitzgerald Middle School, for Three (3) days Without Pay. (Copy to be found in Supplemental Minute Book #95.)

5L. To approve to Dismiss Ms. Laura Nelson, Clerk Typist, Instructional Materials, Walter Pownall Service Center. (Copy to be found in Supplemental Minute Book #95.)

5m. To approve to Dismiss Mr. Stephen Peters, Plasterer, Maintenance Department. (Copy to be found in Supplemental Minute Book #95.)

5n. To approve the Following Special Projects: (Copies/copy to be found in Supplemental Minute Book #95.)

- Renewal of Agreement with Directions for Mental Health, Inc.: $296,732

- Renewal of Agreement with Family Resources, Inc.: $174,972

- Renewal of Agreement with Family Service Centers of Pinellas County, Inc.: $185,239

- Renewal of Agreement with Gulf Coast Community Care: $105,538

- Renewal of Agreement with Pinellas County Health Department: $72,626

- Renewal of Agreement with the University of South Florida (USF): $148,438

- Assistance for Tenth Grade FCAT Project: $125,000

- Youth Garden Grant: $1,000

- Agreement with Florida Center for Interactive Media: $125,000

- Workforce Development Capitalization Incentive Grant: $300,000

- Title I School Improvement Project: $95,752

- Love of Learning Charter School Planning Grant, $10,000

5o. To approve Budget Amendment No. 2 (October 2001) to the District’s 2001/02 Budget.

5p. To approve the Financial Statements for Month Ending October 31, 2001 for Fiscal Year 2001-02.

5q. To approve the Principals’ Quarterly Financial Report for the Quarter Ending September 30, 2001.

5r. To approve the School Food Service Petty Cash Fund for Oak Grove Middle School.

5s. To approve to Retire Tagged Fixed Assets Reported as Stolen or Destroyed.

5t. To approve to Retire Tagged Fixed Assets Reported Missing 2000/2001.

5u. To approve to Retire Certain Tagged Fixed Assets Purchased Through Federal Projects.

5v. To approve the Health Agreement With Westminster Shores. (Copy to be found in Supplemental Minute Book #95.)

5w. To approve the Agreements for FDLRS Preschool Screenings with Holy Trinity Lutheran Church LCMS-Masaryktown and the Hernando Beach Marine Safety Support Group, Inc. (Copy to be found in Supplemental Minute Book #95.)

5x. To approve Amendment No. 1 to Agreement with Biltmore Construction Company, Inc. for a Partial Guaranteed Maximum Price (GMP) in connection with New Construction, HVAC Remodeling and Renovations at Lake St. George Elementary School in the Amount of $3,434,000. (Copy to be found in Supplemental Minute Book #95.)

5y. To approve Change Order No. 1 for Remodeling and Renovations at Melrose Elementary School. This Change Order will decrease the Guaranteed Maximum Price (GMP) by $1,025,841 with a time extension of forty (40) calendar days. (Copy to be found in Supplemental Minute Book #95.)

5z. To approve the Acceptance of Final Substantial Completion for New Construction of Bay Point Elementary School as of September 21, 2001 (Building 5, Exterior of Campus, Landscape and Irrigation). (Copy to be found in Supplemental Minute Book #95.)

5aa. To approve the Acceptance of Final Substantial Completion for Additions, Remodeling, and Renovations at Dunedin High School as of August 14, 2001 (Site Work Improvements); August  17, 2001 (Interiors of Buildings 1 and 2). (Copy to be found in Supplemental Minute Book #95.)

5bb. To approve Change Order No. 4 for the Re-roofing and Exterior Renovations at Tarpon Springs Middle School. This Change Order will increase the contract amount by $123,295 with no time extension. (Copy to be found in Supplemental Minute Book #95.)

5cc. To approve Change Order No. 5 for the Re-roofing and Exterior Renovations at Tarpon Springs Middle School. This Change Order will increase the contract amount by $29,110 with no time extension. (Copy to be found in Supplemental Minute Book #95.)

5dd. To approve the Resolution for Condemnation of the James H. Ward, Sr. Property for Expansion of the Fairmount Park Elementary School Site to Facilitate Construction of the New Fairmount Park Elementary School. (Copy to be found in Supplemental Minute Book #95.)

5ee. To approve Bids to Vendors at Prices in Bid Documents in Accordance with Bid Policies and Statutes. (Copy to be found in Supplemental Minute Book #95.)

6. It was moved by Mrs. Gallucci and seconded by Mrs. Cook to set a Public Hearing and Authorize the Advertisement of the Public Hearing to consider the Amendment to Policy 4.25 Child Abuse, Molestation, Neglect.

Dr. Hinesley stated that this is the first reading and that the amendment reflects changes in the Florida State Statutes.

6a. The motion was carried with a 6-0 vote to set a Public Hearing and Authorize the Advertisement of the Public Hearing to consider the Amendment to Policy 4.25 Child Abuse, Molestation, Neglect.

7. It was moved by Dr. Gessner, seconded by Mrs. Gallucci and carried with a 6-0 vote to set a Public Hearing and Authorize the Advertisement of the Public Hearing to consider the Amendment to Policies 5.10 Reporting Student Progress—Middle School & 5.15 Reporting Student Progress and Class Ranking—High School.

8. It was moved by Dr. Gessner and seconded by Mrs. Bostock to set a Public Hearing and Authorize the Advertisement of the Public Hearing to consider the Amendment to Policy 9.24 Facility Leasing.

Dr. Hinesley stated that this is the first reading and recommended approval of the Amendments.

Dr. Gessner expressed concern that this policy not make it more restrictive for those who wish to use our facilities, i.e., fundraising events held on weekends or charging for air conditioning when it isn’t actually being used.

8a. The motion was carried with a 6-0 vote to set a Public Hearing and Authorize the Advertisement of the Public Hearing to consider the Amendment to Policy 9.24 Facility Leasing.

9. Dr. Hinesley presented to the Board a request to Set a Public Hearing and Authorize the Advertisement of the Public Hearing to Consider the New Policy 9.32 Communication Tower. Dr. Hinesley stated that this is the first reading and recommended approval.

Dr. Gessner, referring to 2(a) and #4 on page 276, expressed concern that this policy might put too much pressure on the school administrator. Dr. Gessner suggested that it read, “the school principal with consultation of district staff.” Mrs. Gallucci suggested “consultation with the school’s SAC.” Dr. Gessner agreed. Dr. Hinesley will send this recommendation back through the feedback loop prior to the second reading.

9a. It was moved by Mrs. Gallucci, seconded by Dr. Gessner and carried with a 6-0 vote to Set a Public Hearing and Authorize the Advertisement of the Public Hearing to Consider the New Policy 9.32 Communication Tower.

10. The following individuals addressed the Board during Presentations from the Audience:

Mark Klutho – Addressed the Board to voice his objection to the manner in which the shrubs and trees are trimmed around the building, the light bulbs used to light the Administration Building, and the plans used to build schools.

Rob McMahon, PCTA -- Suggested that the Board resolve to work with PCTA on the following: To focus on electing a governor and legislative branch who are advocates for public education and to continue the Board’s ”attitude of giving,” as demonstrated in the Superintendent’s contract, when addressing the salaries and benefits for teachers and support personnel. Mr. McMahon thanked Dr. Hinesley in giving PCTA a starting point for their negotiations. Rob wished everyone a happy and prosperous New Year.

11. Dr. Hinesley’s report included the following:

¨ Commended Steve Swartzel for the excellent job he did during this last special session of the Legislators. Dr. Hinesley also thanked Lanse Johansen, Doug Forth and Jerry Runkle for their vision so that with the flexibility received in the state budget there will not have to be a direct impact on schools. Dr. Hinesley stated that the district has already, through reserves, addressed approximately $10.9 million in cuts; that we received flexibility in the Merit Pay money and that $1.6 million of the $3.7 million earmarked for Merit Pay will be used to address the budget cuts; that we have already cut $1.1 million in Central Administration and are committed to doing an additional $1.1 million; that some vacancies in schools will be filled by moving clerical positions from this building that are no longer needed; that we will look at reducing department base budgets; that there is money left from the state’s allocation for teacher recruitment/retention and that districts have received flexibility in that (approximately $400,000 -500,000); and, that he plans to bring a recommendation to use some technology dollars (approximately $2 million) to absorb and balance the reductions. Dr. Hinesley stated that districts did not receive flexibility regarding the portables. Dr. Hinesley stated that the Board will receive information on the process designed for defining the district’s core curriculum which will include art and music; and, that there will be an opportunity to receive input from school administrators, staff, SAC, and the community.

¨ Wished everyone a Happy Hanukkah, happy holiday, and a Happy New Year.

12. Mr. Bowen’s report included the following:

¨ Wished everyone a happy holiday.

¨ Stated that the City Attorney for the City of St. Petersburg contacted him to advise Mr. Bowen that they are considering an ordinance that prohibits discrimination based on sexual orientation; that the City Council conducted a workshop at which the City Staff and Counsel advised the Council that it would not be appropriate to have the School Board subject to their ordinance and, thereby, subjecting the district to the City’s Human Relations Board making determinations on whether the district is discriminating. Mr. Bowen stated that the City Council Members got the idea that the school system did not object to being subject to their ordinance. Mr. Bowen requested approval from the Board to advise the Council that the school system and the Board oppose becoming subject to their ordinance since we have our own anti-discrimination policies. Discussion followed by Board Members. It was moved by Dr. Gessner to direct the attorney to advise the City of St. Petersburg that the district and the Board do not wish to be subject to any of their ordinances, now or in the future. This motion was seconded by Mrs. Bostock and carried with a 5-1 vote, Mrs. Lerner voting against stating she does not understand this issue as presented by Mr. Bowen. Mr. Bowen will put this in writing and forward it to the Board.

13. Reports from School Board Members were as follows:

Schools Visited or Functions Attended by Board Members

Northeast High Basketball Players and Coaches Recognition; Meeting With Police Athletic League; FSBA Board Meeting; Meeting With All Children’s Hospital; Meeting With High Point Community Representatives; Meeting With Education Foundation President; Azalea Elementary; Mt. Vernon Elementary; North Ward Intermediate; Norwood Secondary; Great American Teach In; PCCPTA; Head Start Annual Dinner; FSBA Conference; DMAC Meeting; Superintendent’s Contract Committee Meeting;

Concerns Expressed, Written or Oral

Mrs. Cook – Stated that she spoke with Dr. Hinesley regarding an issue of concern that people are not going into education, and that it is becoming even more difficult for teachers to have a positive attitude about their job considering everything, i.e., low pay. Mrs. Cook suggested that some clips be taken from the interviews for Teacher of the Year and shown on our television station to remind our teachers and the public why our educators are doing what they are doing. Mrs. Cook stated that she hopes this will encourage the teachers to continue doing what they love and promote education as a career. Mrs. Lerner stated she agrees with a suggestion made by Vyrle Davis and his group, AAVREC, that schools consider taking on as their attractor a state-of-the-art program that will encourage students to choose education as their career. Mrs. Lerner suggested that the Board discuss this at a future workshop.

Dr. Gessner – Stated that parents receive no feedback on the discipline measures assigned to an employee when that employee’s action has impacted their child. Dr. Gessner questioned whether the process could be reviewed to possibly inform a parent who was directly involved in a personnel matter. Dr. Hinesley stated that he will look at this issue. Wished everyone a happy holiday and God’s best to everyone and their families.

Mrs. Bostock – Thanked the Board Members for serving on the subcommittee to review the Superintendent’s contract.

Mrs. Lerner – Wished everyone a good holiday and peace in the New Year.

Mrs. Gallucci – Suggested that the Board express their appreciation to those who “went to bat” for public education during the last session, i.e., Senators Latvala, Sebesta and Sullivan, and for getting districts the flexibility needed in the funding to address the budget cuts. Mrs. Gallucci also recognized Senator Latvala for his part in getting Senator Jim King into the president’s role, and stated that this should make a big difference for education since Sen. King is a big supporter of public schools. Suggested that the Board identify ways to stand with the teachers in sending a strong message to Tallahassee that we want a strong, healthy, and adequately funded education system in Florida. Wished everyone a happy holiday and encouraged everyone to be sure to give their family members an extra hug this year considering the attack that America experienced on September 11. Dr. Hinesley stated that students and employees have contributed over $75,000 to be forwarded to the families of New York City policemen and firemen. He stated that this check will be presented tomorrow to a representative of the Steinbrenner family at the Thirteenth Annual Children’s Christmas Concert sponsored by the Steinbrenner Family & the New York Yankees.

Mr. Benjamin – Suggested that the Board begin their next workshop on January 8 at 1:00 p.m. Board Members agreed to try conducting their workshops on a half-day schedule.

14. Dr. Stewart offered the following summary of directives given to the Superintendent for follow up:

¨ Mrs. Cook requested that clips from Teacher-of-the-Year events that describe why teachers chose teaching as a profession be shown on the district’s television station as a recruiting tool.

¨ Mrs. Gallucci requested that staff draft a letter to the Legislators to thank them for their efforts in giving school districts flexibility with specific funds.

¨ Mr. Benjamin requested that staff schedule the workshop on January 8 to begin at 1:00 p.m.

15. Mr. Benjamin wished everyone a happy holiday.

16. There being no further business to be brought before the Board, this meeting adjourned at 3:18 p.m.

______________________ _____________________

Chairman Secretary

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