SCHOOL BOARD OF PINELLAS COUNTY, FLORIDA

REGULAR MEETING JANUARY 15, 2002

The School Board of Pinellas County, Florida, met in Regular Session on Tuesday, January 15, 2002, 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, Mrs. Linda S. Lerner, and Mr. Thomas C. Todd, Members; Dr. J. Howard Hinesley, Superintendent and Ex-officio Secretary to the Board; Dr. John Stewart, Deputy Superintendent; Mr. Lanse Johansen, Chief Business Officer; and, Mr. John Bowen, School Board Attorney.

The Invocation was given by Father James Rousakis, Holy Trinity Church Greek Orthodox, 409 Old Coachman Rd., Clearwater, FL.  This was followed by the Pledge of Allegiance and video presentation of “God Bless America” by the students of Largo High School.

Introduction of the following representatives of professional and community organizations was given by Dr. Ronald Stone, Associate Superintendent for Human Resources & Public Affairs: Carolyn Smith, PESPA; Rob McMahon and Jade Moore, PCTA; Carolyn Bluett, PCCPTA; Pat Scarberry DMAC; Richard Cash, Pinellas County Arts for a Complete Education; Ray Smenner, Pinellas County Arts Council; Oscar Robinson, Operations Team; Kelly Ryan Gilmer, The St. Petersburg Times; and, Lynn Porter, The Tampa Tribune.  Leah Laquian, Student Rights & Responsibility, Pinellas Park High School, arrived later in the meeting.

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

               PULL:     CONSENT #13       

               DELETE:     CONSENT #9

Dr. Hinesley stated that the Board Members had received a memo containing a change in wording for Agenda Item 4, New Policy 9.32, lines 19-21.         

The motion to adopt the agenda was carried with a 7-0 vote.

Mr. Benjamin presented to Ms. Bostock and to Mr. Todd plaques recognizing their terms as Vice Chairman and Chairman, respectfully.

A.               Leah Laquian, Student Rights and Responsibilities Committee representative, Pinellas Park High School, addressed the Board to share information on activities and achievements at her school.

B.               Mr. Paul Renker, AIA, of Renker EichParks Architects, Inc., presented for approval the Schematic Design Phase I Submittal for New Construction at Gibbs High School for an Estimated Construction Cost of $44,023,310.

Dr. Hinesley commended the architects for their hard work transitioning the plans from renovations to complete new construction for Gibbs High.  Dr. Hinesley stated that the plans are to build the new school without having to relocate the students during the construction.

It was moved by Mrs. Gallucci, seconded by Dr. Gessner, and carried with a 7-0 vote to approve the Submittal for Gibbs High School.

C.               Dr. Ron Stone, Associate Superintendent, Human Resources and Public Affairs, presented the K-9 unit from the Campus Police Department that was honored for their drug prevention efforts at the International Narcotics Enforcement Officers Association Conference in October 2001.  The members of that unit are as follows:

    Investigator                                       K-9

                                    Barbara Baugher                      “Sparkey”

                                    Mike Riley                              “Apollo”

                                    Richard Rickey                      “Neo”

                                    Mike Kazouris                        “Magic”

          The investigators were greeted and presented with plaques by the Board Members.

1.                It was moved by Mrs. Gallucci and seconded by Mr. Todd to approve the Adoption of Amendments to Policy 4.25 Child Abuse, Molestation, Neglect.

Dr. Hinesley stated that this is the second reading and that this amendment clarifies what should be placed in a student’s file.

1a.    The motion to approve the Adoption of Amendments to Policy 4.25 Child Abuse, Molestation, Neglect was carried with a 7-0 vote.

2.               It was moved by Mr. Todd and seconded by Dr. Gessner to approve the Adoption of Amendments to Policies 5.10 Reporting Student Progress—Middle School & 5.15 Reporting Student Progress and Class Ranking—High School.

Dr. Hinesley stated that this is the second reading for this amendment.

2a.    The motion to approve the Adoption of Amendments to Policies 5.10 Reporting Student Progress—Middle School & 5.15 Reporting Student Progress and Class Ranking—High School was carried with a7-0 vote.

3.                It was moved by Dr. Gessner and seconded by Mrs. Gallucci to approve the Adoption of Amendments to Policy 9.24 Facility Leasing.

Dr. Hinesley stated that this is the second reading for this amendment and that the change is a result of the presentation made to the Board by a coach.

3a.    The motion to approve the Adoption of Amendments to Policy 9.24 Facility Leasing was carried with a 7-0 vote.

4.                It was moved by Dr. Gessner and seconded by Mrs. Gallucci to approve the Adoption of New Policy 9.32 Communication Tower.

Dr. Hinesley stated that the Board had requested a change in wording at the last meeting and that the change was forwarded to the Board Members.  Dr. Hinesley stated that the change allows for the burden of approving the placement of towers to e shared by various members of a school, rather than placing the entire burden on the principal of a school.

4a.    The motion to approve the Adoption of New Policy 9.32 Communication Tower was carried with a 7-0 vote.

5.                It was moved by Dr. Gessner, seconded by Mrs. Gallucci, and carried with a 7-0 vote to approve the Consent Agenda, as amended. Mrs. Bostock stated that the Board had received a request from a speaker to pull Consent Item #7 (5c.).

5a.   To approve the minutes of the Regular School Board Meeting of December 11, 2001, as submitted.

5b.   To approve the Personnel Actions as Recommended by the Superintendent. (Copy to be found Supplemental Minute Book #96.)

5c.   Mr. Derek J. Anderson, Bus Driver, addressed the Board to state that he was accused of being in possession of marijuana and a handgun.  Mr. Anderson stated that it was his gun, but that he was not tested for drugs and that he does not use drugs.

Mr. Bowen stated that policy provides an opportunity for employees to request a hearing if they do not agree with the charges.  Mr. Bowen stated that Mr. Anderson did not request an administrative hearing.  Mr. Anderson explained that he did not understand this option.

Discussion continued by Michael Bessette (Professional Standards Administrator), Jacqueline Spoto Bircher (Staff Attorney), Mr. Bowen, and School Board Members.

Mr. Bowen asked Mr. Anderson if he would like an administrative hearing.  Mr. Anderson responded that he would.

Discussion followed by Board Members, Dr. Hinesley, and Mr. Bowen.

It was moved by Mrs. Bostock, seconded by Dr. Gessner, and carried with a 7-0 vote to suspend Mr. Derek J. Anderson, Bus Driver, Transportation Department, without pay, effective January 16, 2002, pending the outcome of the administrative hearing.  (Copy to be found in Supplemental Minute Book #96.)

Mrs. Gallucci requested that staff not only send the charging letter which explains the option of an administrative hearing, but also call the employee to explain the process.

Ms. Spoto Bircher stated that this can be considered and that she will also contact other counties to ask their procedures.  Ms. Spoto Bircher explained that employees who have violated policy are always given the opportunity to meet with staff.

5d.    To approve the Recommendation to Dismiss Mr. Jesse Holden, Plant Operator, Ponce de Leon Elementary School.  (Copy to be found in Supplemental Minute Book #96.)

5e.    To approve the Following Special Projects:  (Copy/copies, as appropriate, to be found in Supplemental Minute Book #96.)

-         Allegany Franciscan Foundation Classroom Supplies Grant: $27,000

-         Amendment to the Even Start Family Literacy Project: $175,618

-         National Intramural/Recreational Sports Association Grant: $2,000

-         Agreement with Barry University: $99,000

-         Renewal of Agreement with Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office: $98,788

5f.     To approve Budget Amendment No. 3 (November 2001) to the District’s 2001/02 Budget.

5g.    To approve the Financial Statements for Month Ending November 30, 2001 for Fiscal Year 2001-02.

5h.    Mrs. Bostock, having pulled this item, expressed her concern with offering courses such as “Student Leadership Development” and “Self Awareness” for high school credit courses.

Discussion followed by Board Members and Cathy Fleeger (Assistant Superintendent for High School Education & Workforce Development).

Dr. Gessner stated that Mrs. Bostock has made some very good points and that he would rather see more challenging academic courses offered.

Mrs. Lerner stated that she somewhat agrees with Dr. Gessner, but cautioned the Board not to get too caught up in the titles of courses.

It was moved by Mrs. Gallucci, seconded by Mrs. Cook, and carried with a 6-1 vote, Mrs. Bostock voting against, to approve the High School Course Code Directory and Uniform Course Descriptions, 2002-2003.

5i.      To approve to Continue the Youthbuild Agreement with Boley Centers for Behavioral Health Care, Inc., the Juvenile Welfare Board and the City of St. Petersburg.  (Copy to be found in Supplemental Minute Book #96.)

5j.      To approve the Interinstitutional Articulation Agreement Between the Pinellas County School Board and the St. Petersburg College District Board of Trustees.  (Copy to be found in Supplemental Minute Book #96.)

5k.     To approve the Educational Specifications for New Construction at Campbell Park Elementary School for an Estimated Total Project Cost of $11,275,000. (Copy to be found Supplemental Minute Book #96.)

5L.    To approve the Educational Specifications for New Construction at Gulfport Elementary School for an Estimated Total Project Cost of $11,125,000.  (Copy to be found Supplemental Minute Book #96.)

5m.   To approve the Agreement with HCBeck, Ltd. For Construction Management Services in Connection with New Construction at Campbell Park Elementary School in the Amount of $1,019,200. (Copy to be found Supplemental Minute Book #96.)

5n.    To approve the Agreement with HCBeck, Ltd., for Construction Management Services in Connection with New Construction at Gulfport Elementary School in the Amount of $1,014,400. (Copy to be found Supplemental Minute Book #96.)

5o.    To approve Amendment No. 2 to Agreement with Beers Construction Company for the Addition of $4,626,555, Resulting in a Final Guaranteed Maximum Price (GMP) of $11,628,283 in Connection with the Construction of Elementary School “D.” (Copy to be found Supplemental Minute Book #96.)

5p.    To approve the Acceptance of Substantial Completion for HVAC Remodeling and Renovations at Lakewood High School as of August 18, 2000. (Copy to be found Supplemental Minute Book #96.)

5q.    To approve Acceptance of Final Substantial Completion for HVAC Renovations and Remodeling at Seminole Middle School as of August 13, 2001 (Phase II, Rooms 505 & 507). (Copy to be found Supplemental Minute Book #96.)

5r.     To approve Change Order No. 6 for the Re-roofing and Exterior Renovations at Tarpon Springs Middle School.  This Change Order will increase the contract amount by $22,931 with no time extension. (Copy to be found Supplemental Minute Book #96.)

5s.    To approve Reimbursement of Isolated Transportation for J.F. for the 2001/2002 School Year.

5t.     To approve the Bids to Vendors at Prices in Bid Documents in Accordance with Bid Policies and Statutes. (Copy to be found Supplemental Minute Book #96.)

6.                It was moved by Mr. Todd and seconded by Mrs. Cook to set a Public Hearing and Authorize the advertisement of Amendment to Policy 8.16 Leaves (General).

Dr. Hinesley stated that this is the first reading and that the amendment addresses the use of the sick leave by family members.

Mrs. Gallucci, referring to line 12 on page 131, stated that she did not understand the 5-day waiting period.  Mrs. Gallucci questioned if the district has any data to support the reason for the delay.

Discussion followed by Dr. Ron Stone, Associate Superintendent for Human Resources and Public Affairs, and Board Members.

Mrs. Cook, referring to line 8 on page 131, questioned the rationale for using the same guidelines for a family member giving time to one of their family members.  Mrs. Cook stated she has concerns with an employee not being able to say that their family member can begin immediately drawing from their bank.  Mrs. Cook requested that these concerns be addressed before the second reading.

6a.    The motion was carried with a 7-0 vote to set a Public Hearing and Authorize the advertisement of Amendment to Policy 8.16 Leaves (General).

7.                It was moved by Mrs. Gallucci and seconded by Mr. Todd to approve to authorize the advertisement of Amendment to Policy 8.29 Requirements and Procedures for Initial Appointment.

Dr. Hinesley stated that in the early 1970’s, Pinellas County was one of he districts in the USA to implement a district testing for teachers.  Dr. Hinesley stated that the state has since put numerous requirements in place and, that he is now requesting that the Board approve the removal of the district’s testing requirement for teachers.

7a.    The motion to approve to authorize the advertisement of Amendment to Policy 8.29 Requirements and Procedures for Initial Appointment was carried with a 7-0 vote.

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

Carolyn Smith, PESPA - Addressed the Board to request that they implement the salary study as soon as possible, specifically, for those that need it the most.

Rob McMahon, PCTA – Addressed the Board to suggest that a possible solution to Carolyn Smith’s presentation might be that the Board hold a referendum of the public to raise property taxes.  Mr. McMahon pledged PCTA’s support to a referendum campaign.  Mr. McMahon left with Ms. Beaty  (Adm. Assistant          to the Board) PCTA’s motion requesting that the Board utilize the authority now available to them and hold a referendum to approve additional milage to benefit the District operating expenses.

Jade Moore, PCTA – Addressed the Board to thank them for their joint effort during the last Special Session of the Legislature.  Mr. Moore requested that the Board look at the reserves set aside for the transportation portion of the Choice Plan, stating that the survey indicates most parents are happy with the schools their children are presently attending.  Mr. Moore stated that he would rather the district’s efforts be placed in making the St. Petersburg schools the best they can be.  Mr. Moore said he was looking forward to seeing the Board Members at their rally later today.  Discussion followed by Board Members and Dr. Hinesley.

Mark Klutho – Addressed the Board to state his objection to the lighting used in this building and to the fact that schools are not constructed with solar collection abilities.

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

¨    Stated it was great to have Mr. Todd back.

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

¨    Stated that he began representing the district seven years ago today.

11.           Reports from School Board Members were as follows:

Schools Visited or Functions Attended by Board Members

Bay Point Middle; BayPoint Elementary; Meadowlawn (New Site); Azalea Middle; Support Employee of the Year Breakfast; R’Club Luncheon; Police Athletic League Committee; Architect Selection Committee; Parents Meeting at Bay Point Middle; Tyrone Council, St. Petersburg Chamber of Commerce (Mrs. Bostock-Speaker); Maximo Elementary; Outstanding Volunteer of the Year Selection Committee; Campbell Park; East Lake High; Cypress Woods Elementary; Brooker Creek Elementary; Tarpon Springs Elementary; Tarpon Springs Middle.

Concerns Expressed, Written, or Oral

Mrs. Gallucci – Stated that the Board received a letter from a husband and wife who are both bus drivers for the district and will be financially impacted if the district does not conduct summer school.  Mrs. Gallucci handed the letter to Dr. Hinesley for his review.

Mrs. Lerner – Welcomed Mr. Todd.

Mr. Todd – Stated that he was glad to be back.  Updated the Board on his efforts with the County to identify other sites for the alternative high school.  Mr. Todd stated that the County staff has been very helpful and discussed the possible property known as the “Zero Site.”  Mr. Todd requested that the Superintendent not bring a recommendation to the Board at the January 29 meeting, but delay it in order that this option may be thoroughly researched.  Dr. Hinesley agreed not to bring his recommendation on January 29, but cautioned the Board that should they determine the “Zero Site” is a better one, that a delay could cause the opening of the alternative school to as late as 2004.  Discussion followed.

Carol Cook – Expressed her appreciation for the many cards and notes she has received (as a result of the passing of her sister).

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

Staff will present the data, before the second reading of the policy amendment, to support the 5-day delay for employees needing to utilize the sick bank.

Superintendent will schedule a workshop to discuss the salary study issues.     

13.         There being no further business to be brought before the Board, this meeting adjourned at 3:17 p.m.

______________________       _____________________

                    Chairman             Secretary

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