Winchester Board of Education
Type of Meeting: Regular BOE Meeting Agenda - Amended
Location:  Town Hall – Hicks Room 
Date: August 13, 2019 @ 7:00 p.m.
 

Meeting Facilitator:    Melony Brady-Shanley, Superintendent
                                    Doug Pfenninger, BOE Chairman

Call to order

Pledge of Allegiance

Roll call

Agenda Review Discussion Possible Action:
a)      Regular Board of Education Agenda:  August 13, 2019

Comments from the Chairman
a)      BOE Retreat
 

Presentations:
a)      Building Work
b)      Back to School Backpack- Summer Learning Passport
c)      New Staff Introductions
 

Public Hearing:
Five minutes allotted to each speaker per Board Policy #9325 No BOE employee, student, or community member should be defamed within a public comment.
 

Consent Agenda Items Discussion Possible Action:
a)      Minutes of Regular BOE Meeting – June 11, 2019
b)      Minutes of Special Meeting – July 22, 2019

Correspondence to the Board:

Superintendent’s Reports & Action Items Discussion Possible Action:

a)      Superintendent’s Report
b)      School Enrollment
c)      Gilbert Enrollment
d)      New Hire
e)      T. Mobile 1:1 Device Program
f)      Student Handbook
g)      Staff Handbook
 

Board Action Items:
a)      Acceptance of Donation from St. Andrews Church Kent, CT for the Critical Needs Fund       
         $300.00
b)      Sole Source – EdAdvance Installation Internet Access Points $2,730.00
c)      Sole Source – Frontier Purchasing / Installation of 35 Phones at Pearson
         $12,083.65
d)      Sole Source – Karpet Partners Painting of Gym $6,050.00
e)      Sole Source – Warehouse Store Fixture Company Refrigerator $5,156.09
f)      Sole Source – AK Athletic Equipment $6,000.00
g)      Approval of Canon Copy contract 1^st year $43,540.00, and 2^nd-5^th year $32,688.00     
 

Unfinished Business:
a)      Fiscal Year 2019 Year End Financial Update           

New Business Discussion and Possible Action:

Adjourn 
 

Winchester Board of Education Type of Meeting: Regular BOE Meeting Agenda
Location:  Pearson School – Library   
Date: September 10, 2019 @ 7:00 p.m.

Meeting Facilitator:    Melony Brady-Shanley, Superintendent
                                    Doug Pfenninger, BOE Chairman

Call to order

Pledge of Allegiance

Roll call

Agenda Review Discussion Possible Action:
a)      Regular Board of Education Agenda:  September 10, 2019

Comments from the Chairman
a)      Update on Result Regarding Hinsdale Referendum

Presentations:
a)      Student Bus Monitor Presentation 
b)      Building Walkthrough to View Improvements
c)      1:1 Technology Initiative

Public Hearing:
Five minutes allotted to each speaker per Board Policy #9325 No BOE employee, student, or community member should be defamed within a public comment.

Consent Agenda Items Discussion Possible Action:
a)      Minutes of Regular BOE Meeting – August 13, 2019
        
Correspondence to the Board:
a)      17/18 District Performance Report

Superintendent’s Reports & Action Items Discussion Possible Action:

a)      Superintendent’s Report
b)      School Enrollment – Staffing Increase 2^nd & 4^th Grade
c)      Chronic Absences
d)      Gilbert Enrollment
e)      New Hire
f)      Gilbert Tuition Increase Impact
g)      Next Steps Regarding Hinsdale Results

Board Action Items:

1.    Acceptance of Empowered Ed 2.0 Grant - $16,000 
    

Unfinished Business:

New Business Discussion and Possible Action:
a)      Policy #6141.327(a) – Electronic Resources 2^nd Read

Adjourn 

Winchester Board of Education
Type of Meeting: Regular BOE Meeting Agenda
Location:  Town Hall – Hicks Room   
Date: October 8, 2019 @ 7:00 p.m.

Meeting Facilitator:    Melony Brady-Shanley, Superintendent
                                    Doug Pfenninger, BOE Chairman

Call to order

Pledge of Allegiance

Roll call

Agenda Review Discussion Possible Action:
a)      Regular Board of Education Agenda:  October 8, 2019

Comments from the Chairman     

Presentations:
a)      Chronic Absenteeism Report per the State Department of Education
b)      1^st Quarter 2020 Financials
 

Public Hearing:
Five minutes allotted to each speaker per Board Policy #9325 No BOE employee, student, or community member should be defamed within a public comment.

Consent Agenda Items Discussion Possible Action:
a)      Minutes of Regular BOE Meeting – September 10, 2019
b)      Minutes of Special Meeting – September 16, 2019
c)      Minutes of Curriculum Committee Meeting – September 24, 2019
d)      Minutes of Bylaw and Policy Committee Meeting – September 24, 2019
e)      Minutes of Finance Committee Meeting – September 24, 2019
 

Correspondence to the Board:
a)      Resignation from Gilbert School Corp. – M. Hintz

Superintendent’s Reports & Action Items Discussion Possible Action:
a)      Superintendent’s Report
b)      School Enrollment
c)      Chronic Absences
d)      Gilbert Enrollment
 

Board Action Items:
a)      Change Date of BOE Meeting in April from April 14, 2020 to April 7, 2020
b)      Sole Source PowerSchool Hosting    
c)      Discussion of 3-hour delay
d)      Healthy Food Certification
e)      Appointment of member(s) to the Gilbert School Corp
 

Unfinished Business:
a)      Fiscal Year 2019 Update

New Business Discussion and Possible Action:     
a)      Policy #5131.81(a) - Cellular Phones/Electronic Communication Devices – 1^st read
b)      Policy #5132 - Dress and Grooming – 1^st read
c)      Policy # 3281.1 – Crowdfunding – 1^st read   
d)      Michelle Hintz – Update on HSRC 9/30/2019
e)      EFinance Plus Implementation
f)      Adjustment of October Committee Meetings

Executive Session:
a)      Review of School Security Assessment
b)      Discussion of Gilbert Tuition
c)      Discussion of BOE Member experience with designated high school

Adjourn 

Winchester Board of Education
Type of Meeting: Regular BOE Meeting Agenda
Location:  Town Hall – Blue Room   
Date: November 12, 2019 @ 7:00 p.m.

Meeting Facilitator:    Melony Brady-Shanley, Superintendent
                                    Doug Pfenninger, BOE Chairman

Organizational Meeting – Michelle Hintz (see outline)

Call to order

Pledge of Allegiance

Roll call

Agenda Review Discussion Possible Action:
a)      Regular Board of Education Agenda:  November 12, 2019

Comments from the Chairman
a)      Committee Assignments – Policy, Finance, and Curriculum

Presentations:
a)      District ESSA Accountability Key Indicator
b)      Review of November 5, 2019 Professional Development
c)      Report from Steven Sedlack, Chairman of the Gilbert School Corporation

Public Hearing:
Five minutes allotted to each speaker per Board Policy #9325 No BOE employee, student, or community member should be defamed within a public comment.

Consent Agenda Items Discussion Possible Action:
a)      Minutes of Regular BOE Meeting – October 8, 2019
b)      Minutes of Bylaw and Policy Committee Meeting – October 22, 2019
c)      Minutes of Finance Committee Meeting – October 22, 2019

Correspondence to the Board:
a)      Bonnie B. Carney Award of Excellence for Educational Communication

1. 1^st place for Winchester Public Schools Facebook Page
2. Honorable Mention – Hinsdale School Renovation Website

b)      CABE Leadership Level 1 Award

         i. Winchester Board of Education

Superintendent’s Reports & Action Items Discussion Possible Action:
a)      Superintendent’s Report
b)      School Enrollment

c)      Chronic Absences
d)      St. Anthony Enrollment
e)      Gilbert Enrollment
f)      New Hire

Board Action Items:

a)      Approval of the 2020-2021 Academic Calendar

Unfinished Business:
a)      Fiscal Year 2019 Update

New Business Discussion and Possible Action:     
a)      Policy # 3520.14 Cybersecurity 1^st read
b)      Policy # 5141.214 Student Sunscreen Use 1^st read
c)      Policy #5144.4(a) Physical Exercise and Discipline of Students 1^st read
d)      Policy #6159(a) IEP/Special Education Program 1^st read
e)      Policy #5114(b) Suspension and Expulsion / Due Process 1^st read
f)      Policy #5131.81(a) - Cellular Phones/Electronic Communication Devices – 2^nd read
g)      Policy #5132 - Dress and Grooming – 2^nd read
h)      Policy # 3281.1 – Crowdfunding – 2^nd read  

Executive Session:

1.    Discussion of Gilbert Tuition Amount FY20
2.    Discussion of upcoming Gilbert Negotiations

Adjourn 

Winchester Board of Education Committee Assignments
Updated November 12, 2019

Curriculum Committee – 6:30 PM (4^th Tuesday of the Month) in the Pearson Library

Policy Committee – 7:00 PM (4^th Tuesday of the Month) in the Pearson Library

Finance Committee – 8:00 PM (4^th Tuesday of the Month) in the Pearson Library

Winchester Board of Education

Type of Meeting: Regular BOE Meeting Agenda
Location:  Town Hall – Hicks Room    
Date: December 10, 2019 @ 7:00 p.m.

Meeting Facilitator:    Melony Brady-Shanley, Superintendent
                                    Doug Pfenninger, BOE Chairman

Call to order

Pledge of Allegiance

Roll call

Agenda Review Discussion Possible Action:
a)      Regular Board of Education Agenda:  December 10, 2019

Comments from the Chairman
a)      Long TermVisioning Plan for District – Schedule that

Presentations:
a)      Robotics Team Student Presentation 

Gilbert Report:  
         Steve Sedlack

Public Hearing:
Five minutes allotted to each speaker per Board Policy #9325 No BOE employee, student, or community member should be defamed within a public comment.

Consent Agenda Items Discussion Possible Action:
a)      Minutes of Regular BOE Meeting – November 12, 2019
b)      Minutes of Special Meeting – November 14, 2019
c)      Minutes of Policy / Bylaws Meeting – November 19, 2019
d)      Minutes of Finance Committee Meeting – November 19, 2019
e)      Minutes of Curriculum Meeting – November 19, 2019

Correspondence to the Board:        

Superintendent’s Reports & Action Items Discussion Possible Action:
a)      Superintendent’s Report
b)      School Enrollment
c)      Chronic Absences
d)      Gilbert Enrollment
e)      New Hire
f)      Monthly Budget Summary
g)      Initial Budget Information Fiscal Year 2021

Board Action Items:
a)      Elevator Repair
b)      Winchester Alliance for Families RFP 2019 – R. Horvay
c)      Winchester Alliance For Families RFP 2019 – P. Ursaki

 Unfinished Business:          

New Business Discussion and Possible Action:     
a)      Policy # 3410(a) Systems of Accounts 1^st read
b)      Policy # 3430 Periodic Financial Reports 1^st read
c)      Policy # 3432/3433 Budget & Expense Report/Annual Financial Statement 1^st read
d)      Policy # 5142(a) Students / Student Safety 1^st read
e)      Policy # 3171-1 Non-Lapsing Educational Fund 1^st read
f)      Policy # 3520.14 Cybersecurity 2^nd read
g)      Policy # 5141.214 Student Sunscreen Use 2^nd read
h)      Policy #5144.4(a) Physical Exercise and Discipline of Students 2^nd read
i)       Policy #6159(a) IEP/Special Education Program 2^nd read
j)       Policy #5114(b) Suspension and Expulsion / Due Process 2^nd read
k)      Policy #5132 - Dress and Grooming – 3^rd read

Adjourn 

Winchester Board of Education

Type of Meeting: Regular BOE Meeting Agenda
Location:  Town Hall – Hicks Room    
Date: January 14, 2020 @ 7:00 p.m.

Meeting Facilitator:    Melony Brady-Shanley, Superintendent
                                    Doug Pfenninger, BOE Chairman

Members:  Nora Mocarski, Kristin Peterson, Richard Dutton, Alexandria Propfe, Cheryl McGlynn, Michelle Hintz, Shana DeVaux, and Tara Sundie

Call to order

Pledge of Allegiance

Roll call

Agenda Review Discussion Possible Action:
a)      Regular Board of Education Agenda:  January 14, 2020

Comments from the Chairman
        
Presentations:
a)      Exploration Charter School – Jill Johnson
b)      Preliminary Budget Information – Fiscal Year 2021
c)      2^nd Quarter Financial Report
d)      Audit Fiscal Year 2019 - Complete

Gilbert Report: 
         Steve Sedlack

Public Hearing:
Five minutes allotted to each speaker per Board Policy #9325 No BOE employee, student, or community member should be defamed within a public comment.

Consent Agenda Items Discussion Possible Action:
a)      Minutes of Regular BOE Meeting – December 10, 2019

Correspondence to the Board:        

Superintendent’s Reports & Action Items Discussion Possible Action:
a)      Superintendent’s Report
b)      School Enrollment
c)      Chronic Absences
d)      Gilbert Enrollment
e)      New Hire
f)      Monthly Budget Summary
g)      Update on Legal Case - Hinsdale
 

Board Action Items:

a)      Approval of Literacy Fundation & Crowdfunding
b)      Approval of Scheduled Meetings 2020-2021

Unfinished Business:          

New Business Discussion and Possible Action:     
a)      Policy # 3410(a) Systems of Accounts 2^nd read
b)      Policy # 3430 Periodic Financial Reports 2^nd read
c)      Policy # 3432/3433 Budget & Expense Report/Annual Financial Statement 2^nd read
d)      Policy # 5142(a) Students / Student Safety 2^nd read
e)      Policy # 3171-1 Non-Lapsing Educational Fund 2^nd read

Executive Session:
a)      WPS / Gilbert Negotiations
b)      WPS Superintendent Mid-Year Evaluation

Adjourn 

Winchester Board of Education
Type of Meeting: Regular BOE Meeting Agenda
Location:  Town Hall – Hicks Room    

Date: February 11, 2020 @ 7:00 p.m.

Meeting Facilitator:    Melony Brady-Shanley, Superintendent
                                    Doug Pfenninger, BOE Chairman

Members:  Nora Mocarski, Kristin Peterson, Richard Dutton, Alexandria Propfe, Cheryl McGlynn, Michelle Hintz, Shana DeVaux, and Tara Sundie

Call to order

Pledge of Allegiance

Roll call

Agenda Review Discussion Possible Action:
a)      Regular Board of Education Agenda:  February 11, 2020

Comments from the Chairman
        
Presentations:
a)      Gilbert School Scores Report
b)      WPS ESSA Score Presentation

Gilbert Report: 
         Steve Sedlack

Public Hearing:
Five minutes allotted to each speaker per Board Policy #9325 No BOE employee, student, or community member should be defamed within a public comment.

Consent Agenda Items Discussion Possible Action:
a)      Minutes of Regular BOE Meeting – January 14, 2020
b)      Minutes of Special Meeting – January 13, 2020
c)      Minutes of Policy / Bylaws Meeting – January 28, 2020
d)      Minutes of Finance Committee Meeting – January 28, 2020
e)      Minutes of Curriculum Meeting – January 28, 2020

Correspondence to the Board:
a)      Retirement Letter School Nurse        
b)      CABE Liaison Newsletter

Superintendent’s Reports & Action Items Discussion Possible Action:
a)      Superintendent’s Report
b)      School Enrollment
c)      Chronic Absences
d)      Gilbert Enrollment
e)      New Hire
f)      Monthly Budget Summary

Discussion:
a)      WPS Visioning Event Reflections and Thoughts

Board Action Items:
a)      OTIS Elevator Modification Project
b)      Healthy Food Certification Statement

Unfinished Business:          

New Business Discussion and Possible Action:     

Adjourn 

Winchester Board of Education
Type of Meeting: Regular BOE Meeting Agenda
Location:  Town Hall – Hicks Room    
Date: March 10, 2020 @ 7:00 p.m.

Meeting Facilitator:    Melony Brady-Shanley, Superintendent
                                    Doug Pfenninger, BOE Chairman

Members:  Nora Mocarski, Kristin Peterson, Richard Dutton, Alexandria Propfe, Cheryl McGlynn, Michelle Hintz, Shana DeVaux, and Tara Sundie

Call to order

Pledge of Allegiance

Roll call

Agenda Review Discussion Possible Action:
a)      Regular Board of Education Agenda:  March 10, 2020

Comments from the Chairman

Gilbert Report: 
         Steve Sedlack

Presentations:
a)      Drama Club
b)      Baby Owls – R. Horvay
c)      Unified Sports Program – S. Cullinan

Public Hearing:
Five minutes allotted to each speaker per Board Policy #9325 No BOE employee, student, or community member should be defamed within a public comment.

Consent Agenda Items Discussion Possible Action:
a)      Minutes of Regular BOE Meeting – February 11, 2020
b)      Minutes of Special Meeting – February 6, 2020
c)      Minutes of Finance Committee Meeting – February 25, 2020
e)      Minutes of Curriculum Meeting – February 25, 2020
 

Correspondence to the Board:
a)     

Superintendent’s Reports & Action Items Discussion Possible Action:
a)      Superintendent’s Report
b)      School Enrollment
c)      Chronic Absences
d)      Gilbert Enrollment
e)      New Hire
f)      Monthly Budget Summary

Discussion:
a)      WPS Visioning Event Reflections and Thoughts

Board Action Items:
a)      Creative Recreation

Unfinished Business:          

New Business Discussion and Possible Action:     
Policy # 6114.8(a) Pandemic/Epidemic Emergencies

Executive Session:
a)      Gilbert & Winchester Public Schools Negotiations

Adjourn 

Winchester Board of Education
Type of Meeting: Regular BOE Meeting Agenda
Date: April 7, 2020 @ 7:00 p.m.

Location:  Virtual Meeting
       Join Zoom Meeting -  https://zoom.us/j/7966671341
       Meeting ID: 796 667 1341
Meeting Facilitator:    Melony Brady-Shanley, Superintendent
                                   Doug Pfenninger, BOE Chairman

Members:  Nora Mocarski, Kristin Peterson, Richard Dutton, Alexandria Propfe, Cheryl McGlynn, Michelle Hintz, Shana DeVaux, and Tara Sundie

Call to order

Pledge of Allegiance

Roll call

Agenda Review Discussion Possible Action:
a)      Regular Board of Education Agenda:  April 7, 2020

Comments from the Chairman

Gilbert Report: 
         Steve Sedlack

Presentations:          

Public Hearing:
Five minutes allotted to each speaker per Board Policy #9325 No BOE employee, student, or community member should be defamed within a public comment.

Consent Agenda Items Discussion Possible Action:
a)      Minutes of Regular BOE Meeting – March 10, 2020

Correspondence to the Board:
a)      Winchester Police Department – Thank You Note

Superintendent’s Reports & Action Items Discussion Possible Action:
a)      Superintendent’s Report
b)      Monthly Budget Summary

Discussion:

Board Action Items:
a)      Stipend Approval for Custodians & Cafeteria Workers
b)      Sole  Single Source – Otis Elevator

Unfinished Business:          

New Business Discussion and Possible Action:     
Policy # 6114.8(a) Pandemic/Epidemic Emergencies – 2nd read

Adjourn 

Winchester Board of Education

Type of Meeting: Regular BOE Meeting MINUTES

Location:  Town Hall – Hicks Room

Date: August 13, 2019 @ 7:00 p.m.

Meeting Facilitator:     Melony Brady-Shanley, Superintendent

                                    Doug Pfenninger, BOE Chairman

Call to order @ 7:00pm

Pledge of Allegiance

Roll call

Winchester Board of Education:       

S. DeVaux, R. Dutton, C. McGlynn, M. Hintz, N. Mocarski, K. Peterson, D. Pfenninger, A. Propfe, C. Royer (entered excused @ 7:05 pm)

            District/Central Office Staff:

M. Brady-Shanley, Superintendent, N. O’Dea-Wyrick, Director of Finance & Business Services, Seamus Cullinan, Director of Student Services, Barbara Silverio, Principal of Pearson School, Rosanne Field, Principal of Batcheller School

Agenda Review Discussion Possible Action - None

Comments from the Chair

Welcomed new district faculty and staff

Gave an overview of the BOE retreat from July, including a positive performance on standardized testing

BOE goals were discussed including improving communication with BOS and recognized that continuity in the membership of the BOE is important.

BOE expressed its appreciation to the administration of its hard work in turning the district around

We are looking to have more student involvement in BOE meetings including a presentation from students on the school bus monitoring program

And finally, the pictures of Pearson’s improvements to the physical plant look amazing

Presentations

            Building work: Pearson building improvements were presented in a PowerPoint presentation

Examples include a new bike rack, new interior, and exterior doors. Standardized size doors installed to reduce costs, thus the transoms, clean freshly painted classrooms, repainted cabinetry, waxed and polished floors, newly painted lockers, new wall pads, repainted walls, and refinished floors in the gym, repainted cafe/stage

Still outstanding: bathroom sinks, plumbing, and faucets. To be fully landscaped prior to the opening of school, risers

Building security has been improved, but specifics will be withheld for obvious reasons

Back to School Backpack:

Passports in reading - completed passport kids got a backpack filled with back to school supplies

Anticipating 200 students will earn this backpack

Note there are backpacks available at the Salvation Army for families in need as well

New hires present and introduced

Public Hearing - None

Consent Agenda Items

            MOTION to accept the minutes from the Regular Winchester BOE Minutes from June 11, 2019

First: R. Dutton, Second: A. Propfe. → 8-0-1

Correspondence to the Board - None.

Superintendent’s Report & Action Items

            Page 16 read into the record.

            Winchester and Gilbert School enrollments were discussed

Additionally, Melony will be a member of four committees of the State of Connecticut            Superintendent’s Leadership. These include Alliance Grants, Legislative, Small Districts, and Women in Leadership committees.

Formal paperwork on the new hires was noted. The update of the latest hire will be included at the next meeting in September.

T-Mobile 1:1 Device Program was discussed. All 6th graders will have one Chromebook and a hotspot at home for access to the Internet provided by a grant from. T-Mobile. However, all families must attend a workshop on safety and accidents

Student Handbook updated and available

Staff Handbook updated and in line with BOE policy

Board Action Items

            MOTION to accept the donation from St. Andrews Church, Kent - $300.00

                        First, M. Hintz, Second: C. McGlynn → U

            MOTION to accept the Sole Source of EdAdvance Installation Internet Access Points - $2730.00.

First: A. Propfe, Second: C. Royer → U

MOTION to accept the Sole Source of Frontier which includes the purchase of 35 phones at Pearson. Rationale: Many rooms did not have phones in Pearson to date. People will be able to dial local numbers only. Classroom to classroom and Central and Main Office calls can be made. The faculty can receive voicemail and phone calls. This system is compatible with what is already installed in the school.

                        First: C. McGlynn, Second: R. Dutton → U

            MOTION to accept the Sole Source of Karpet Partners Painting of Gym - $6,050.00.

Rationale: This Company repaired gym walls and painted gym walls quickly so that other improvements could be accomplished in the short window. This group was already working in the building and was willing to work fast. 

                        First, R. Dutton, Second: C. McGlynn → U

MOTION to accept the Sole Source of Warehouse Store Fixture Company. Note that this does not require competitive bidding because it is already on the state-approved list.

                        First: C. McGlynn, Second: M. Hintz → U

            MOTION to accept the Sole Source of AK Athletic Equipment.

Rationale: This product is of good quality and this vendor was willing to allow us to install the mats ourselves. These mats are Velcro to the wall and therefore, can be replaced easily, one section at a time, if necessary.

            First: S. DeVaux, Second: A. Propfe → U

            MOTION to approve the Canon Copy Contract which was a competitive bid process. We had six bids. 

Rationale: Central Office recommends Canon to the WBOE because our current software that tracks utilization by the person and by machine and can continue to be used. Other copy companies asked for different systems and thus more cost. Canon agreed to install machines two months early and would also relocate copiers throughout the district at no cost. Loaner machines will be provided if they cannot repair a machine. Impact on us is in the current year, July to Oct at the old rate. The new rate starts Nov. 1st. considerably less than what we were paying. Seven machines, different machines. Some color, some black, and white. Leased equipment for five years. Parts included, and no delivery charge for toner. They will charge us for per page use.

                        First: A. Propfe, Second: M. Hintz → U

Unfinished Business

Finance update. The 2018-19 school year is not completely closed, but balance is in the black at $99,910. We received many more Medicaid monies. The report was read aloud.

New Business and Discussion and Possible Action

Regarding Gilbert's contract negotiations moving forward: As a BOE, we decided we did not want to negotiate with Gilbert so late in the school year. Therefore, a planning session will be scheduled on how to move forward in negotiations with Gilbert. Look for an email from D. Pfenninger asking for who would like to be involved.

MOTION to adjourn at 8:30 pm.

First: A. Propfe, Second: S. DeVaux → U.

Minutes respectfully submitted by

Nora Mocarski, BOE Secretary.

Winchester Board of Education

Type of Meeting: Regular BOE Meeting MINUTES

Location:  Pearson School Library

Date: September 10, 2019 @ 7:00 p.m.

Meeting Facilitator:     Melony Brady-Shanley, Superintendent

                                    Doug Pfenninger, BOE Chairman

CALL TO ORDER at 7 pm

Present: Richard Dutton, Cheryl McGlynn, Michelle Hintz (entered 7:23 pm), Nora Mocarski, Kristin Peterson, Doug Pfenninger, Alexandria Propfe, Christina Royer

Absent: Shana DeVaux (Unexcused)

District/Central Office Staff:

M. Brady-Shanley, Superintendent, N. O’Dea-Wyrick, Director of Finance & Business Services, Seamus Cullinan, Director of Student Services, Barbara Silverio, Principal of Pearson School, Rosanne Field, Principal of Batcheller School, Kim Roy

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

AGENDA REVIEW

            MOTION: to add “SBAC Results” under “PRESENTATIONS”

                        First, Chris Royer, second Cheryl McGlynn → U.

            MOTION: Move student presentation up before “COMMENTS FROM THE CHAIR”

                        First; Cheryl McGlynn, Second Chris Royer → U.

PRESENTATION

            Kim Roy presented 6th-grade students who discussed the “Positive Patrol” Program - Bus monitors

COMMENTS FROM CHAIR

            Recognition of Nora Mocarski, as Canton Public School’s Teacher of the Year

            Brief discussion of the Hinsdale vote outcome

PRESENTATIONS

Chromebook goal/purpose: Every 6th-grade student will receive one. Hotspots will also be available for all students at home. Wrote and received a grant from T-Mobile - “EmpowerEd 16K to pay for hotspots with 4G unlimited data and internet service needed for the home. Hotspots will have filters.

Google Classroom will be used. Expecting to help with communication home via email

Only the Chromebook will be used for the hotspot. No other device will be allowed to use it via restrictions controlled by Winchester Public Schools. Purchasing 100 cases to protect the device. Meetings with parents are planned to educate them on the program.

Ms. Chmura 6th grade teacher - presented information on how the Chromebook will be used in the classroom.

Overall SBAC scores were presented [Handout] from assessment this past May 2019.

ELA: Closing the gap for ELA - ELA scores are up 2.4% from last year

Math: growth is exceptional - From 47.7% to 55.10%. Remarkable positive growth.

PUBLIC HEARING

            None.

CONSENT AGENDA ITEMS

            MOTION: to approve the minutes as written

First: Kristin Peterson, Second: Cheryl McGlynn → U.

CORRESPONDENCE TO THE BOARD

State Department of Education’s Special Education Department completes an annual report for whether a district needs help or support to comply with IDEA regulations.

                        We MEET Expectations, Pre-K through 12.

SUPERINTENDENT’S REPORT & ACTION ITEMS

Read into the record: Page 9 of BOE Packet with the correction that Superintendent Brady-Shanley did not attend “United Way Breakfast” because of an issue in the District

We hired two additional teachers because of increased enrollment to meet the classroom size maximums in the WEA Teacher’s Contract.

            Grade 2 - Had 29 students in a classroom. Per teachers’ contract: 20 should be the maximum

Grade 4 - Had 24 students. We were at 24 - maxed with three teachers at this point with increasing enrollment. 4 students are pending on entering the district.

We are now within WEA contractual agreements with the new hires

            All movement of assignment of teachers was done in mid-August before the start of school

Gilbert enrollment appears to be dropping per their reporting as of September 2019 [page 12]

Backpack progress: Approximately 110 were distributed.

Impact of Gilbert’s Tuition Increase to the Winchester Board of Education: 

• Cut a Math Coach position ($85,000 - benefits & salary).
• Cut the Special Education Administrator at Gilbert High School.
  • IMPACT: Seamus Cullinan now runs PPTs and conducts testing two times a week in addition to his regular job responsibilities.
  • Superintendent Shanley is up at Gilbert once a week to work with faculty on assessment, instruction, and inclusion.

BOARD ACTION ITEMS

            MOTION to accept Empowered Ed 2.0 Grant of $16,000

First: Cheryl McGlynn, Second: Michelle Hintz → U.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS

Date established for discussion on Gilbert Negotiations - Special Board of Education meeting scheduled for Monday, September 16, 2019, at 6:30 pm regarding Gilbert Negotiations will be at the Town Hall in the 3^rd-floor conference room.

NEW BUSINESS DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION

            MOTION to accept Policy # 6141.327a

First: Alex Propfe, Second: Richard Dutton → U.

ADJOURN

            MOTION adjourn 8:27 pm.

First: Cheryl McGlynn, Second: Michelle Hintz → U.

Minutes submitted by Nora Mocarski

Winchester Board of Education

Type of Meeting: Regular BOE Meeting MINUTES

Location:  Town Hall – Hicks Room  

Date: October 8, 2019 @ 7:00 p.m.

Meeting Facilitator:     Melony Brady-Shanley, Superintendent & Doug Pfenninger, BOE Chairman

Call to order @ 7:00pm

Pledge of Allegiance

Roll call

Winchester Board of Education:       

S. DeVaux, R. Dutton, C. McGlynn, M. Hintz, N. Mocarski, K. Peterson,  A. Propfe, C. Royer, and Doug Pfenninger.

District/Central Office Staff:

M. Brady-Shanley, Superintendent, N. O’Dea-Wyrick, Director of Finance & Business Services, Seamus Cullinan, Director of Student Services, Barbara Silverio, Principal of Pearson School, Rosanne Field, Principal of Batcheller School

Agenda Review Discussion Possible Action:

a)      Regular Board of Education Agenda:  October 8, 2019

                     MOTION to delete “Healthy Food Certification” from under “Board Action Items.”

First: C. Royer, Second: R. Dutton → U

MOTION to add a “Letter from Avon Plumbing & Heating” under “Correspondence to the Board.” 

            First: C. Royer, Second: C. McGlynn → U. 

Comments from the Chairman

Chairman D. Pfenninger mentioned that K. Petersen and N. Mocarski would be replacing M. Hintz and D. Pfenninger respectfully as members of the Gilbert School Corporation Board.     

Presentations:

a)      Chronic Absenteeism Report per the State Department of Education

Superintendent Brady-Shanley happily reported that district chronic absenteeism, collectively, is well within the state target. Specifically, Pearson is within the goal, and Batcheller is within striking distance.

b)      1st Quarter 2020 Financials

                     N. O’Dea-Wyrick presented the district financials [pp. 7-10].

Public Hearing:

Five minutes allotted to each speaker per Board Policy #9325 No BOE employee, student, or community member should be defamed within a public comment.

Winchester resident MaryEllen Valyo to express her appreciation to the public for Board of Education member Christine Royer and her 14 years of service for the Winchester Public Schools as Board of Education member.

Winchester resident Tara Sunday was welcomed as an audience member who will be the Winchester Board of Education’s newest member after the close of election day in November as she is running unopposed.

Consent Agenda Items Discussion Possible Action:

a)      Minutes of Regular BOE Meeting – September 10, 2019

b)      Minutes of Special Meeting – September 16, 2019

c)      Minutes of Curriculum Committee Meeting – September 24, 2019

d)      Minutes of Bylaw and Policy Committee Meeting – September 24, 2019

e)      Minutes of the Finance Committee Meeting – September 24, 2019

                     MOTION to accept the minutes of the meetings above (a-e) as presented:

First: C. Royer, Second; R. Dutton → U

Correspondence to the Board:

a)      Resignation from Gilbert School Corp. – M. Hintz resigned from the Gilbert School Corp. Board.

b)      Letter from Avon Plumbing and Heating was read into the record and recognized the professionalism of N. O’Dea-Wyrick during the project. They look forward to working with the Winchester Public Schools again.

Superintendent’s Reports & Action Items Discussion Possible Action:

a)      Superintendent’s Report - Superintendent M. Brady-Shanley read p. 22 into the record.

b)      School Enrollment - School enrollment increased by seven students. Special Education increased by 11 students in part because several students moved into the district, and PreK students have rolled into Kindergarten.

c)      Chronic Absences - statistics on page 24 was reviewed

d)      Gilbert Enrollment -

Winchester students dropped by one student to 437 as of October 2019

International students stand at 29 as of October 2019

Tuition stands at $15,099 per pupil for 459.8 students

Board Action Items:

a)      Change Date of BOE Meeting in April from April 14, 2020, to April 7, 2020

                     MOTION to change the BOE Meeting date from April 14 to April 7, 2020

                                 First: M. Hintz, Second: C. McGlynn → 8-0-1.

b)      Sole Source PowerSchool Hosting - Page 26 was read into the record, and rationale was explained. This is also considered an “add-on” service to services already provided.

                     MOTION to accept PowerSchool as the Sole Source

                                 First: C. McGlynn, Second: M. Hintz → U.

c)      Discussion of 3-hour delay - to be used only if necessary.

                     MOTION for a 3-hour delay

                                 First: C. Royer, Second: C. McGlynn → U.

d)      Appointment of member(s) to the Gilbert School Corp

MOTION to accept Kristin Peterson to replace Michelle Hintz on the Gilbert School Corporation Board

                                 First: C. McGlynn, Second: M. Hintz → 8 - 0 - 1

Unfinished Business:

a)      Fiscal Year 2019 Update - N. O’Dea-Wyrick reports that while we are waiting for the bills on a few classroom collaborative tables and chairs, we should close the year in the black by approximately $2000.00. This will be applied to the non-lapsing fund. Also, note that the non-lapsing fund allowable went up to 2% from 1%. A question was asked about the purpose of the non-lapsing fund that would have been available if we did not have to use it to pay the excess tuition charge by Gilbert. The answer: We would have left the monies alone had we not had to pay Gilbert to have on hand to take care of emergencies that might arise such as a roof repair.

New Business Discussion and Possible Action:    

a)      Policy #5131.81(a) - Cellular Phones/Electronic Communication Devices – 1st read

                     Policy shared and discussed. No action needed at this time. Will be voted on in November.

b)      Policy #5132 - Dress and Grooming – 1st read

                     Policy shared and discussed. No action needed at this time. Will be voted on in November.

c)      Policy # 3281.1 – Crowdfunding – 1st read  

                     Policy shared and discussed. No action needed at this time. Will be voted on in November.

d)      Michelle Hintz – Update on HSRC 9/30/2019

Hinsdale School - We received information that we will be recommended to be placed upon the “priority list” for funding of the renovations in Hinsdale School. This does not mean we have received funds. We have not at this time. It was discussed and recognized that there will be no movement on the project from the Board of Selectman until the Town has received funding from the State of Connecticut. Question was asked if Representative Jay Case can “fast-track” this work. The goal is to occupy a newly renovated Hinsdale by the Fall of 2022.

e)      EFinance Plus Implementation - pp. 40-41 was reviewed and will go “live” in January of 2020.

f)      Adjustment of October Committee Meetings

MOTION to move Winchester BOE Committee Meetings to October 22, 2019, from October 29, 2019, because of a conflict with a community fundraiser on 10/29/19.

                                 First: C. McGlynn, Second: M. Hintz → U.

Executive Session:

a)      Discussion of Gilbert Tuition

MOTION to invite Superintendent M. Brady-Shanley and N. O’Dea-Wyrick to go into Executive Session to discuss Gilbert Tuition at 8:30 pm

First:  M. Hintz, Second: C. McGlynn → U.

MOTION to come out of Executive Session at 9:17 pm

         First: C. McGlynn, Second: C. Royer → U.

b)      Review of School Security Assessment

MOTION to invite Superintendent M. Brady-Shanley and N. O’Dea-Wyrick to go into Executive Session to review school security at 9:17 pm

                                 First: C. McGlynn, Second: C. Royer → U

                                             S. DeVaux left Executive Session at 9:20pm.

                        MOTION to come out of Executive Session at 9:39 pm.

                                 First: C. McGlynn, Second: C. Royer → U

c)      Discussion of a Winchester student

                     MOTION to discuss a Winchester student inviting no one at 9:39 pm

                                 First: C. McGlynn, Second: C. Royer → U.

                     MOTION to adjourn out of Executive Session at 9:57 pm.

                                 First: C. McGlynn, Second: M. Hintz → U.

Adjourn

         MOTION to adjourn the meeting at 9:59 pm

                     First: C. McGlynn, Second: M. Hintz → U.

Type of Meeting: Regular BOE Meeting MINUTES

Location:  Town Hall – Blue Room  

Date: November 12, 2019 @ 7:00 p.m.

Meeting Facilitator:  Melony Brady-Shanley, Superintendent, Doug Pfenninger, BOE Chairman

Organizational Meeting – Michelle Hintz (see outline)

         Nomination for Board of Education Chair: Douglas Pfenninger, 9-0

         NOMINATION FOR BOARD OF EDUCATION SECRETARY: Nora Mocarski, 9-0

Call to order 7:02 pm

Pledge of Allegiance

Roll call

Winchester Board of Education:       

S. DeVaux, R. Dutton, C. McGlynn, M. Hintz, N. Mocarski, K. Peterson,  Doug Pfenninger, A. Propfe, and T. Sundie

District/Central Office Staff:

M. Brady-Shanley, Superintendent, N. O’Dea-Wyrick, Director of Finance & Business Services, Seamus Cullinan, Director of Student Services, Barbara Silverio, Principal of Pearson School, Rosanne Field, Principal of Batcheller School

Agenda Review Discussion Possible Action:

a)      Regular Board of Education Agenda of today, November 12, 2019

         To add “Correspondence to the Board” from Pam for Land Use Chair concerning the POCD

                     MOTION to add Land Use letter concerning the POCD

First; M. Hintz, Second C. McGlynn → U.

Comments from the Chairman

a)      Committee Assignments – Policy, Finance, and Curriculum

                     Sign-up sheet circulated and members selected committees

Presentations:

a)      District ESSA Accountability Key Indicator - All school districts have ESSA targets in CT.

                     Note;   Achievement level means the number of students meeting growth levels

                                 Growth level means individual targets

                     Charts on page 4 from the SDE Accountability Office were discussed

                     Overall, Winchester is outperforming ESSA targets, particularly in math

                     Our area for improvement is to increase Expressive Language under “LAS Links Oral.”

The EL population in Winchester schools has generally been steady, but perhaps a little bit higher, but we are seeing more bilingual students and a few with no English language at all.

            Handouts shared:

1. “ESSA Milestones - Winchester School District” &
2. “ESSA Milestones - The Gilbert School District, The Gilbert School”

Both show the next 13 years of performance targets, noting the Accountability Index at the bottom - an 85 is “Superior,” and the state target is 75.

Melony will submit a report of our performance in reference to our DRG and contiguous towns.

This information is available to the public online at “Edsight.”

b)      Review of November 5, 2019, Professional Development

                     Winsted Area Child Care & Headstart came to support PD

                     PD was a blend of teacher’s wants and district needs.

                     Some faculty-led PD as well

c)      Report from Steven Sedlack, Chairman of the Gilbert School Corporation

Gilbert to send a person/representative to share what is going on in The Gilbert School with the Winchester Board of Education. Presented by Steve Sedlack.

Homecoming and distinguished alumni visit classrooms as career awareness; Trick or treat was conducted at the HS; Project-based learning initiative resulted in an event on Nov. 1st (Day of the Dead) where  7th graders research a person from the past (family, sports figures, politicians…) and built a memorial which was displayed in the library.

Honored veterans - lunch at Gilbert. Interviewed vets to be archived at the Library of Congress.

Doctor Dutton participated at The Gilbert School in a Vaping panel held Thurs. 7 pm at the Gilbert School in concert with Susan B. Anthony project

NWEA and NGSS scores will be reported out soon.

Students participated in a project with Big Y: Thanksgiving dinners with area people. Last year they served 60 meals;

The Goal Setting session with The Gilbert School Corp Board from Sat. Nov. 2nd.resulted in four targeted areas identified. The superintendent is charged with taking these four broad areas to fine-tune for January.

Public Hearing:

1. Five minutes allotted to each speaker per Board Policy #9325 No BOE employee, student, or community member should be defamed within a public comment.

                     None.

Consent Agenda Items Discussion Possible Action:

a)      Minutes of Regular BOE Meeting – October 8, 2019

         MOTION to approve: First, M. Hintz, Second: C. McGlynn → U.

b)      Minutes of Bylaw and Policy Committee Meeting – October 22, 2019

MOTION to approve with the corrections on the October 22, 2019 minutes to reflect the change that Kristin Peterson was part of the roll call. To move Kristin Peterson’s name up after Doug Pfenninger’s name.

                     First: C. McGlynn, Second: M. Hintz → U.

It was also requested that the Policy and ByLaws Agenda on page 11 be corrected to change the meeting facilitator from“N. Mocarski on Page 11, to M. Hintz. To add C. McGlynn’s name as she is a member of the Policy and ByLaws Committee.

c)      Minutes of the Finance Committee Meeting – October 22, 2019

MOTION to amend the Finance Committee Meeting Minutes with the correction that M. Brady-Shanley is meeting facilitator and not M. Hintz

First: C. McGlynn, Second: A. Propfe → U.

MOTION to amend to add to the roll call to include N. Mocarski, K. Peterson, C. Royer, R. Dutton

First: C. McGlynn, Second: D. Pfenninger → U

MOTION to approve the Finance Committee Meeting Minutes as amended → U

            First: M. Hintz, Second: C. McGlynn

Correspondence to the Board:

a)      Bonnie B. Carney Award of Excellence for Educational Communication was discussed

1. Winchester Public Schools was awarded 1st place for Winchester Public Schools Facebook Page
2. Winchester Public Schools was awarded Honorable Mention for the Hinsdale School Renovation Website

b)      CABE Leadership Level 1 Award

         i. Winchester Board of Education

Winchester Board of Education will be awarded the “Level I CABE Board Distinction Award” this week on Friday, November 15th. The award will be presented by CABE to M. Brady-Shanley

C) Added to agenda: A letter read from Land/Conservation and Development - to add persons to sit on POCD

         Next meeting - January 27th - Hicks Room in Town Hall

                     Volunteer to sit on the POCD - Kristin Peterson.

Superintendent’s Reports & Action Items Discussion Possible Action:

a)      Superintendent’s Report - Read into the record, pages 26-27.

b)      School Enrollment

                     Data was pulled by M. Brady-Shanley

c)      Chronic Absences discussed

d)      St. Anthony Enrollment shared

e)      Gilbert Enrollment shared

f)      New Hire

                     Meghan Sullivan discussed

Board Action Items:

a)      Approval of the 2020-2021 Academic Calendar

                     MOTION to approve the 2020-2021 calendar

First: C. McGlynn, Second: S. DeVaux → U.

Unfinished Business:

a)      Fiscal Year 2019 Update

                     FY19 completely closed in the black @ $79,163.00 which can go into our non-lapsing fund.

Can be used for emergencies (Ex: Batcheller’s boiler is on borrowed time. Also recommended to use monies for EdAdvance, and to cover the $75,000 Gilbert increased tuition charge).

New Business Discussion and Possible Action:    

a)      Policy # 3520.14 Cybersecurity 1st read

This is a new policy for Winchester. It is not required by the State of Connecticut, but it is recommended by the Policy Committee to adopt.

b)      Policy # 5141.214 Student Sunscreen Use 1st read

                     This was heavily discussed in Policy Committee regarding field day, field trips

                     Page 45 must include the content related to page 47 under #8

c)      Policy #5144.4(a) Physical Exercise and Discipline of Students 1st read

                     State required policy.

d)      Policy #6159(a) IEP/Special Education Program 1st read

                     State required and changes cannot happen because required by state law.

e)      Policy #5114(b) Suspension and Expulsion / Due Process 1st read

                     Required by state law. Changes required by state law

f)      Policy #5131.81(a) - Cellular Phones/Electronic Communication Devices – 2nd read

                     MOTION to adopt Policy #5131.81(a)

First: C. McGlynn, Second: N. Mocarski → U.

g)      Policy #5132 - Dress and Grooming – 2nd read - intent to keep simple to allow admin to enforce it

Bringing the Policy #5132 back to next BOE meeting with change to add an asterisk to say “examples include” to add “i.e.”

h)      Policy # 3281.1 – Crowdfunding – 2nd read

MOTION to adopt Policy #3281.1

First: C. McGlynn, Second: M. Hintz → U.

Executive Session:

1. Discussion of Gilbert Tuition Amount FY20
2. Discussion of upcoming Gilbert Negotiations
   1. MOTION to go into Executive Session to discuss Gilbert Tuition Amount and upcoming Gilbert Negotiations at 8:28pm and to invite Melony Brady-Shanley and Nancy O’Dea-Wyrick.
      1. FIRST: C. McGlynn, SECOND: K. Peterson → U.
   2. MOTION to come out of Executive Session at 9:36pm
      1. First: M. Hintz, Second: D. Pfenninger → U.

Adjourn

         MOTION TO Adjourn at 9:33pm

                     First: M. Hintz, Second: T. Sundie → U

Minutes submitted by N. Mocarski, Board Secretar

Winchester Board of Education

Type of Meeting: Regular BOE Meeting MINUTES

Location:  Town Hall – Hicks Room  

Date: December 10, 2019 @ 7:00 p.m.

Meeting Facilitator:     Melony Brady-Shanley, Superintendent  & Nora Mocarski, BOE Secretary

Call to order @ 7:01pm

Pledge of Allegiance

Roll call

Winchester Board of Education:       

S. DeVaux (enter 7:13p), R. Dutton, C. McGlynn, M. Hintz, N. Mocarski, K. Peterson,  A. Propfe, T. Sundie

Absent: Doug Pfenninger

District/Central Office Staff:

M. Brady-Shanley, Superintendent, N. O’Dea-Wyrick, Director of Finance & Business Services, Seamus Cullinan, Director of Student Services, Barbara Silverio, Principal of Pearson School

                        Absent: Rosanne Field, Principal of Batcheller School

Agenda Review Discussion Possible Action:

MOTION to move Presentations up before “Comments from the Chairman.”

                     First: C. McGlynn, Second: M. Hintz  → U

MOTION to add “Item d” under “Board Action Items” Northwest Community Foundation Draper Fund of $1000.00 for critical needs

                        First: M. Hintz, Second: C. McGlynn → U

MOTION to add “Item e” under “Board Action Items” Unified Sports $1000.00 for the start-up of a Unified Sports Program.”

                        First: M. Hintz, Second: S. DeVaux → U

Presentations

The Robotics Club notified the Winchester Board of Education of their success at the most recent Robotics Competition and presented their proposal for their next project - sidewalk repairs for the Town of Winchester. 

Comments from the Chairman

Superintendent Brady-Shanley discussed developing a Winter Retreat to define the portrait of an elementary school graduate. M. Hintz, N. Mocarski, and A. Propfe expressed interest

Gilbert Report

Gilbert School Corp. Chairman Steve Sedlack reported out on the four goals that were established at the November 2, 2019 retreat: 1) Communication, 2) Culture/Climate, 3) Achievement, 4) Fiscal Responsibility.

Chairman Sedlack also reported out on the beginnings of the development of a Five-Year Capital Improvement Plan,

An Administrative Restructure/Design Plan is in the works in conjunction with EdAdvance, who will be proposing to the Gilbert School Corp Board on January 15, 2019.

Public Hearing

Five minutes allotted to each speaker per Board Policy #9325 No BOE employee, student, or community member should be defamed within a public comment.

None.

Consent Agenda Items Discussion Possible Action:

a)      Minutes of Regular BOE Meeting – November 12, 2019

                     MOTION to accept the minutes - First: C. McGlynn, Second: M. Hintz  → U

b)      Minutes of Special Meeting – November 14, 2019

                     MOTION to accept the minutes - First: C. McGlynn, Second: R. Dutton → U.

c)      Minutes of Curriculum Committee Meeting – November 19, 2019

                     MOTION to accept the minutes - First: T. Sundie, Second: M. Hintz → U.

d)      Minutes of Bylaw and Policy Committee Meeting – November 19, 2019

                     MOTION to accept the minutes - First: C. McGlynn, Second: M. Hintz → U.

e)      Minutes of the Finance Committee Meeting – November 19, 2019

                     MOTION to accept the minutes - First: A. Propfe, Second: C. McGlynn → U.

Superintendent’s Reports & Action Items Discussion Possible Action:

a)      Superintendent’s Report - Superintendent M. Brady-Shanley read p. 18 into the record.

b)      School Enrollment - School enrollment increased by five students - p. 19

c)      Chronic Absences - statistics on page 20 was reviewed

d)      Gilbert Enrollment -

Winchester student enrollment: 435 as of December 2019

International students dropped by one to 28 as of December 2019

Board Action Items:

            Elevator Repair

MOTION to approve spending of $6811.00 to repair the elevator in Batcheller to comply with ADA.

                                    First: C. McGlynn, A. Propfe → U.

            Winchester Alliance for Families RFP 2019 - R. Horvay

                        MOTION to approve $500 for the Winsted Family Resource Center

First: T. Sundie, Second: A. Propfe → U.

            Winchester Alliance for Families RFP 2019 - P. Ursaki

                        MOTION to approve $500 for the Batcheller Early Education Center & Pearson School

                                    First: C. McGlynn, Second: M. Hintz → U.

New Business Discussion and Possible Action:    

a)      Policy # 3410(a) Systems of Accounts 1st read

b)      Policy # 3430 Periodic Financial Reports 1st read

c)      Policy # 3432/3433 Budget & Expense Report/Annual Financial Statement 1st read

d)      Policy # 5142(a) Students / Student Safety 1st read

e)      Policy # 3171-1 Non-Lapsing Educational Fund 1st read

f)      Policy # 3520.14 Cybersecurity 2nd read

                     MOTION to accept policy #3520.14

                                 First: A. Propfe, Second: C. McGlynn → U.

g)      Policy # 5141.214 Student Sunscreen Use 2nd read

                     MOTION to accept Policy #5141.214

                                 First: R. Dutton, Second: S. DeVaux → U.

h)      Policy #5144.4(a) Physical Exercise and Discipline of Students 2nd read

                     MOTION to accept Policy #5144.4(a)

                                    First: R. Dutton, Second: S. DeVaux → U.

i)       Policy #6159(a) IEP/Special Education Program 2nd read

                     MOTION to accept Policy #6159(a)

                                 First: T. Sundie, Second: K. Peterson → U.

j)       Policy #5114(b) Suspension and Expulsion / Due Process 2nd read

                     MOTION to accept Policy #5114(b)

                                 First: C. McGlynn, Second: T. Sundie → U.

k)      Policy #5132 - Dress and Grooming – 3rd read

                     MOTION to accept Policy #5132

                                 First: C. McGlynn, Second: S. DeVaux → U.

Adjourn

         MOTION to adjourn the meeting at 8:47pm

                     First: C. McGlynn, Second: K. Peterson → U.

Type of Meeting: Regular BOE Meeting Agenda

Location:  Town Hall – Hicks Room   

Date: January 14, 2020 @ 7:00 p.m.

Meeting Facilitator:  Melony Brady-Shanley, Superintendent

                                   Doug Pfenninger, BOE Chairman

Members:  Nora Mocarski, Kristin Peterson, Richard Dutton, Alexandria Propfe, Cheryl McGlynn, Michelle Hintz, Shana DeVaux, and Tara Sundie

Call to order @ 7:01pm

Pledge of Allegiance

Roll call

Doug Pfenninger, Nora Mocarski, Kristin Peterson, Richard Dutton, Alexandria Propfe, Michelle Hintz, and Tara Sundie, Melony Brady-Shanley, Nancy O’Dea-Wyrick, Seamus Cullinan, Rosanne Fields, Barbara Silverio

            Absent Excused: Cheryl McGlynn

            Absent Unexcused: Shana DeVaux

Agenda Review Discussion Possible Action:

a)      Regular Board of Education Agenda:  January 14, 2020

MOTION to add “Discussion of Gilbert High School’s proposed SRO” as “f” under “New Business and Possible Action”

                     First: Dutton, Second: Peterson → U

Comments from the Chairman - None

Presentations:

a)      Exploration Charter School

Jill Johnson presented history, purpose, and overview of Explorations. Enrollment is filled to capacity at 92 students, and 15 are on a waiting list. Ms. Johnson encourages persons to come and take a tour

b)      Preliminary Budget Information – Fiscal Year 2021

                     Special Budget Meeting on 1/13/20 yielded a request for a range of charges from Gilbert School

Corp to the Winchester Public Schools.

                     This range provided by Head of Schools Tony Serio was from $7,087,070 to $7,333,000

c)      2nd Quarter Financial Report

                     Pages 3-9 were presented by N. O’Dea-Wyrick

d)      Audit Fiscal Year 2019 - Complete

Audit conducted by King and King. This is a celebratory item because not one issue was found. N. O’Dea-Wyrick and her team was recognized for a fantastic report

Gilbert Report:

         Steve Sedlack presented highlights.

Public Hearing:

Five minutes allotted to each speaker per Board Policy #9325 No BOE employee, student, or community member should be defamed within a public comment.

                     None.

Consent Agenda Items Discussion Possible Action:

a)      Minutes of Regular BOE Meeting – December 10, 2019

                     MOTION to approve

                                 First: Dutton, Second: Sundie → U

Correspondence to the Board:        

         None.

Superintendent’s Reports & Action Items Discussion Possible Action:

a)      Superintendent’s Report - Pages 15-16 were read into the record

b)      School Enrollment  - Page 17 read into the record.

c)      Chronic Absences - Page 18 read into the record.

d)      Gilbert Enrollment - Page 19 read into the record.

e)      New Hire - Jessica Seymour

f)      Monthly Budget Summary - In the black $35,485

g)      Update on Legal Case - Hinsdale

Board Action Items:

a)      Approval of Literacy Foundation & Crowdfunding

                     MOTION to approve

                                 First: Hintz, Second: Propfe → U

b)      Approval of Scheduled Meetings 2020-2021

                     MOTION to approve scheduled meetings

                                 First: Sundie, Second: Dutton → U

    c)   Line Item transfers

                        MOTION to approve line item transfers as presented on page 11

                                    First:  Dutton, Second: Peterson → U           

Unfinished Business:          

New Business Discussion and Possible Action:    

a)      Policy # 3410(a) Systems of Accounts 2nd read

                     MOTION to approve: First: Mocarski, Second: Sundie → U

b)      Policy # 3430 Periodic Financial Reports 2nd read

                     MOTION to approve: First: Mocarski, Second: Peterson→ U

c)      Policy # 3432/3433 Budget & Expense Report/Annual Financial Statement 2nd read

                     MOTION to approve: First: Mocarski, Second: Peterson→ U

d)      Policy # 5142(a) Students / Student Safety 2nd read

                     MOTION to approve: First: Mocarski, Second: Dutton→ U

e)      Policy # 3171-1 Non-Lapsing Educational Fund 2nd read

                     MOTION to approve: First: Mocarski, Second: Sundie → U

f)      Discussion of Gilbert High School’s proposed SRO

Discussion clarified that the Winchester Board is not interested in hiring an SRO for grades Pre-K to 6th for, but not limited to,  the following reasons:

• Police response from downtown would most likely be just as fast, or faster, in responding to an issue at an elementary school because the SRO would most likely be located at The Gilbert School.
• Concern raised about research suggesting the disproportionate numbers of minority and Special Education students more likely negatively impacted by an SRO than other school-aged populations.
• Question raised as to whether financial resources might be better spent on other services to help students and families such as hiring social workers or psychologists rather than an SRO
• Question raised as to who would pay overtime
• Objection raised against an armed SRO in the elementary schools
• Question raised whether a security guard for afternoon classes and after school programs would be a better investment instead of an armed SRO              

Executive Session:

MOTION to enter into Executive Session inviting Superintendent Brady-Shanley at 8:40pm to discuss WPS/Gilbert Negotiations and WPS Superintendent Mid-Year Evaluation.

First: Hintz, Second: Sundie → U

a)      WPS / Gilbert Negotiations

b)      WPS Superintendent Mid-Year Evaluation

         MOTION to exit out of Executive Session at 9:48pm

                     First: Hintz, Second: Propfe → U

Adjourn

         MOTION to adjourn at 9:49pm

                     First: Dutton, Second: Propfe → U

Winchester Board of Education
Type of Meeting: Regular BOE Meeting Minutes
Location:  Town Hall – Hicks Room   
Date: February 11, 2020 @ 7:00 p.m.

Meeting Facilitator:     Melony Brady-Shanley, Superintendent
                                    Doug Pfenninger, BOE Chairman

Members:  Nora Mocarski, Kristin Peterson, Richard Dutton, Alexandria Propfe, Cheryl McGlynn, Michelle Hintz, Shana DeVaux, and Tara Sundie

Call to order @ 7:00

Pledge of Allegiance

Roll call 
Board of Education
PRESENT:  Nora Mocarski, Kristin Peterson, Richard Dutton, Alexandria Propfe, Cheryl McGlynn, Michelle Hintz, Tara Sundie

ABSENT: Shana DeVaux (excused)

District/Central Office Staff:
Melony Brady-Shanley, Superintendent, Nancy O’Dea-Wyrick, Director of Finance & Business Services, Seamus Cullinan, Director of Student Services, Barbara Silverio, Principal of Pearson School

ABSENT: Rosanne Field, Principal of Batcheller School (excused)

Agenda Review Discussion Possible Action:
a)      Regular Board of Education Agenda:  February 11, 2020

         MOTION: to move items under “Correspondence to the Board” after “Agenda Review"                       
              First: C. McGlynn, Second: M. Hintz → U.

          MOTION to move items under “Board Action Items” after “Consent Agenda Items"
               First: K. Peterson, Second: T. Sundie

Correspondence to the Board:
a)      Retirement Letter School Nurse             
         MOTION to accept the retirement letter from Ms. Ann Joy with regret
              First: K. Peterson, Second: M. Hintz → U.

b)      CABE Liaison Newsletter - Letter was read to the full Board              

Comments from the Chairman
None

Presentations:
a)      Gilbert School Scores Report
Principal Sue Sojka Score reports from pp. 3-14 and report on AP scores were also included. A discussion of next steps was also included.

b)      WPS ESSA Score Presentation
Superintendent M. Brady-Shanley and Principal B. Silverio presented scores and much to celebrate. Winchester is close to “Category 1” in terms of most ESSA Milestones. There was discussion of making Category 1 the next goal.

Immediate action plans targeting areas discussed in the following three areas:
Area  of growth discussed (area: ELL - Oral)
ELA growth index
Chronic Absenteeism

Gilbert Report:- Steve Sedlack
Absent. No report.

Public Hearing:

Five minutes allotted to each speaker per Board Policy #9325 No BOE employee, student, or community member should be defamed within a public comment.

None.

Consent Agenda Items Discussion Possible Action:
a)      Minutes of Regular BOE Meeting – January 14, 2020
b)      Minutes of Special Meeting – January 13, 2020
c)      Minutes of Policy / Bylaws Meeting – January 28, 2020
d)      Minutes of Finance Committee Meeting – January 28, 2020
e)      Minutes of Curriculum Meeting – January 28, 2020
MOTION to accept the consent agenda items a) through e)
     First: M. Hintz, Second: A. Propfe → U.

Board Action Items:
a)      Otis Elevator Modification Project
MOTION to use Otis Elevator as the sole source provider for work, supplies, or equipment as outlined in the attached quote/purchase order number LL011320-1 for $84,864.

        First: M. Hintz, Second: C. McGlynn

b)      Healthy Food Certification Statement
MOTION to move the wording under Item #1 from the “Required Annual Healthy Food and Beverage Certification”

1.       Motion language for healthy food option: Pursuant to C.G.S. Section 10-215f, the board of education or governing authority certifies that all food items offered for sale to students in the schools under its jurisdiction, and not exempted from the Connecticut Nutrition Standards published by the Connecticut State Department of Education, will comply with the Connecticut Nutrition Standards during the period of July 1, 2020, through June 30, 2021. This certification shall include all food offered for sale to students separately from reimbursable meals at all times and from all sources, including but not limited to school stores, vending machines, school cafeterias, culinary programs, and any fundraising activities on school premises sponsored by the school or non-school organizations and groups.

         First: M. Hintz,  Second: K Peterson → U.

MOTION to move the wording under Items #2 from the “Required Annual Healthy Food and Beverage Certification”

2.       Motion language for combined food and beverage exemptions: The board of education or governing authority will allow the sale to students of food items that do not meet the Connecticut Nutrition Standards and beverages not listed in Section 10-221q of the Connecticut General Statutes provided that the following conditions are met: 1) the sale is in connection with an event occurring after the end of the regular school day or on the weekend; 2) the sale is at the location of the event, and 3) the food and beverage items are not sold from a vending machine or school store. An “event” is an occurrence that involves more than just a regularly scheduled practice, meeting, or extracurricular activity. For example, soccer games, school plays, and interscholastic debates are events but soccer practices, play rehearsals, and debate team meetings are not. The “regular school day” is the period from midnight before to 30 minutes after the end of the official school day. “Location” means where the event is being held.

      First: C. McGlynn, Second: T. Sundie → U

Superintendent’s Reports & Action Items Discussion Possible Action:
a)      Superintendent’s Report was read into the record, pp. 49-50
b)      School Enrollment - read into the record.
c)      Chronic Absences - read into the record.
d)      Gilbert Enrollment - read into the record.
e)      New Hire - read into the record.
f)       Monthly Budget Summary - read into the record.

Discussion:
a)      WPS Visioning Event Reflections and Thought
    MOTION to postpone to the next meeting.
        First, M. Hintz, Second: K. Peterson → U.

Unfinished Business:  
None.      

New Business Discussion and Possible Action:    
None.

Adjourn
    MOTION to adjourn @ 9:16pm
        First: C. McGlynn, Second: M. Hintz

Winchester Board of Education
Type of Meeting: Regular BOE Meeting Minutes - Amended
Location:  Town Hall – Hicks Room   
Date: March 10, 2020 @ 7:00 p.m.

Meeting Facilitator:     Melony Brady-Shanley, Superintendent
                                    Doug Pfenninger, BOE Chairman

Members:  Nora Mocarski, Kristin Peterson, Richard Dutton, Alexandria Propfe, Cheryl McGlynn, Michelle Hintz, Shana DeVaux, and Tara Sundie

Call to order at 7pm

Pledge of Allegiance

Roll call

Nora Mocarski, Kristin Peterson, Richard Dutton(enter 7:01pm), Alexandria Propfe, Cheryl McGlynn, Michelle Hintz, Shana DeVaux (enter 7:03pm), and Tara Sundie

Agenda Review Discussion Possible Action:

a)         Regular Board of Education Agenda:  March 10, 2020

                        MOTION to add a “Corona Update” in lieu of “Comments from the Chairman”

                                    First: K. Peterson, Second: N. Mocarski → U.

MOTION to add to the agenda, “Approval of the FY 2021 Budget” as item “b)” under “Board Action Items”

                                    First: K. Peterson, Second: M. Hintz --U.

MOTION to table item “a)” under “Discussion” of “Educational Vision for Winchester Public Schools”

                                    First: M. Hintz, Second: K. Peterson → U.

Comments from the Chairman

Corona update: Received approval from the State of Connecticut to use bleach to clean schools

There will be evening cleanings of commonly used areas, there will be a focus on handwashing in the schools

The State of Connecticut requires 180 school days per school year. Priority would be to add these dates to the end of the school year then to take from April break if necessary.

Gilbert Report:

            Steve Sedlack

Gilbert production of Willy Wonka is still on as of this evening for this weekend. The community is invited.

                        Gilbertschool.org contains the Superintendent’s budget message for the community.

                        Winchester BOE members are kept busy serving on Gilbert subcommittees.

These include N. Mocarski and R. Dutton on Policy which is currently considering policies on pandemics, the school calendar, vaping, and acceptable use

                                    The Building and Grounds Committee is N. Mocarski and R. Dutton

                                    The Ad Hoc Committee on School Goals is K. Peterson, and citizen T. Padin School administrative structure is to be reviewed.   

Presentations:

Superintendent Brady-Shanley sends her appreciation to the Winchester Board of Education members and shares her message of appreciation of our support in helping her balance being a mom and a superintendent.                

a)         Drama Club

Ms. Theresa Padin and Ms. Jackie Petriello Community Partnership Development, CHAMPS, and Music teacher as well as Pearson Drama Club coordinators presented students who performed a tease of the musical, Aladdin which will be performed in the Gilbert Auditorium on April 3, 2020. Tickets are available now. They reminded us that the program is in its 7th year and began with only 15 students in year one. This year, there are 144 participants, 46 of which will participate in Aladdin.      

b)         Baby Owls – R. Horvay       

Ms. Horvay presented a handout to the Board of Education members and the public to guide her presentation on the Baby Owls program.  This handout also enables Board members to speak to specifics and use to educate others.

Among items discussed included, but not limited to, its purpose, curriculum, and enrollment information.

Parent Christina Bellmay shared her experience and appreciation for the program as it has been a significant program for her child’s educational progress.[1] 

Ms. Horvay implores that the Winchester Schools continue to support the Baby Owls and Little Owls programs because of the benefits provided to our students in the community.       

c)         Unified Sports Program – S. Cullinan

A great thank you goes out to Glenna Brooks and Cassandra Murphy for their work and energy in helping to develop the Unified Sports program. In addition, Principals Barbara Silverio and Rosanne Fields were also recognized for their support in creative scheduling. Additionally, Lisa Brochu, Vicki Brooks, and Barbara McClean, New Hartford Special Education Director, and Barbara Horn from CAS/CIAC whose grant money was critical to grant money was critical to the development of the program.

Discussion of the program includes a description of some of the activities underway or planned. These include an adaptive field trip which has evolved into a four-day program in PE classes at Pearson for every student in the school - This includes wheelchair basketball and a schoolwide assembly. This work is in conjunction with a Special Olympics Olympian. There will be a culminating event on. May 1.

Public Hearing:

Five minutes allotted to each speaker per Board Policy #9325 No BOE employee, student, or community member should be defamed within a public comment.

            None.

Consent Agenda Items Discussion Possible Action:

a)         Minutes of Regular BOE Meeting – February 11, 2020

b)         Minutes of Special Meeting – February 6, 2020

c)         Minutes of Finance Committee Meeting – February 25, 2020

e)         Minutes of Curriculum Meeting – February 25, 2020

                        MOTION to accept all of the minutes of the meetings listed above a) through e)

                                    First T. Sundie , Second: M. Hintz → U.

Correspondence to the Board

a)     None.

Superintendent’s Reports & Action Items Discussion Possible Action:

a)         Superintendent’s Report read into the record, pp. 18-19

It was requested by M. Hintz that the Superintendent add the information about the Unified Sports to the “Community Conversations” to communicate and to celebrate the work done.

b)         School Enrollment - Steady at 558

c)         Chronic Absences - Flu has been an issue

d)         Gilbert Enrollment - 439 students. Down one from last month

e)         New Hire - L. Dombroski for Services Coordinator and Parent Trainer,  H. Miller, full-time nurse, and Kelly Hicks as                                    paraprofessional

f)         Monthly Budget Summary

The budget is standing at $106,235 because of few snow days, more Medicaid reimbursements, but concerned about the impact of Coronavirus (COVID-19)

Discussion:

a)         WPS Visioning Event Reflections and Thoughts - TABLED

Board Action Items:

a)         Creative Recreation

                        Superintendent M. Brady-Shanley to research obtaining a wheelchair swing at Pearson

MOTION seeking approval for a sole source for the swingset installation at $10,389.

                                    First: S. DeVaux,  Second: C. McGlynn → U.

b)         Approval of the FY 2021 Budget

Concerned was voiced by members of the Winchester Board of Education that WPS is forced to pay for capital improvements for Gilbert on buildings the town does not own inside this budget - vis-a-vis roofs.

Concern was shared by one Board member that Gilbert’s 5-year Capital Improvement Plan is not clearly flushed out at this time.

            Compliments made to Superintendent Brady-Shanley for a detailed, thorough plan.

Compliments made to the two superintendents for working together on this budget.

Comment made by a Board member that while we do not like the tax increase, the person respects the tax increase.

                        MOTION to accept the FY2021 as presented

                                    First: C. McGlynn, Second: M. Hintz → U.

Unfinished Business:         

New Business Discussion and Possible Action:

Policy # 6114.8(a) Pandemic/Epidemic Emergencies

MOTION to move Policy #6114.8(a) to the Second Read with the provision that Superintendent Melony Brady-Shanely may enact the policy if necessary prior to the Second Read with notification to the Board of Education members.

                        First: M. Hintz  Second: A. Propfe → U.

Executive Session:

a)         Gilbert & Winchester Public Schools Negotiations

MOTION to go into the Executive Session and to invite Superintendent M. Brady-Shanley at 9:10pm to discuss Gilbert and Winchester Public Schools Negotiations.

                                    First: M. Hintz, Second: C. McGlynn → U.

                        MOTION to move out of Executive Session at 9:52

                                    First: A. Prophe Second: T. Sundie → U.

Adjourn

            MOTION to adjourn at 9:54pm

                        First: M. Hintz, Second: C. McGlynn → U.

Added on 3/31/20