Winchester Board of Education
Type of Meeting: Regular BOE Meeting Agenda - AMENDED
Location:  Town Hall – Hicks Room  
Date: August 14, 2018 @ 7:00 p.m.

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

Call to order

Pledge of Allegiance

Roll call

Agenda Review Discussion Possible Action:
a)      Regular Board of Education Agenda:  August 14, 2018

Comments from the Chairman
a)      BOE Retreat Overview

Presentations:
a)      New Staff Members to Winchester Public Schools
b)      Alliance Building Grant Update
c)      Finance Report FY 2018
d)      1% non-lapsing fund
e)      Facilities Update

Report on Hinsdale School Renovation Committee – Michelle Hintz

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 12, 2018
b)      Minutes of Special Board of Education Meeting – July 9, 2018      

Correspondence to the Board:

Superintendent’s Reports & Action Items Discussion Possible Action:
a)      Superintendents’ Report
b)      School Enrollment
d)      New Hires
e)      Gilbert Enrollment
f)      Submission of Commissioner Network and Alliance Grant

Board Action Items:
a)      Appointment of Batcheller Principal - Rosanne Field effective August 15, 2018. 
b)      Cost of School Lunches

Unfinished Business:

New Business Discussion and Possible Action:

Executive Session: 
Initial discussion regarding Gilbert Contract Negotiations and Winchester  
Education Association Contract.

Adjourn  

Winchester Board of Education
Type of Meeting: Regular BOE Meeting Agenda
Location:  Town Hall – Hicks Room  
Date: September 11, 2018 @ 7:00 p.m.
Meeting Facilitator: Melony Brady-Shanley, Superintendent and Doug Pfenninger, BOE Chairman

Call to order

Pledge of Allegiance

Roll call

Agenda Review Discussion Possible Action:
a)  Regular Board of Education Agenda:  September 11, 2018

Comments from the Chairman
a)  BOE Member – Excused Absence Process

Presentations:
a)  “New” Enrollment Presentation        
b)  SBAC Results

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 14, 2018

Correspondence to the Board:
a)  NIS-CT Audit

Superintendent’s Reports & Action Items Discussion Possible Action:
a)  Superintendents’ Report
b)  School Enrollment
c)  Chronic Absences
d)  New Hires
e)  Gilbert Enrollment     
f)   FY2019 Total Resource Budget

Board Action Items:

Unfinished Business:

New Business Discussion and Possible Action:
a)  Promotional SBAC Celebration Conversation
b)  Quarterly Meetings with Gilbert BOE
c)  Evaluation of Board Chairperson

Executive Session: 
a)  To discuss confidential Special Education matter

Adjourn  

Winchester Board of Education
Type of Meeting: Regular BOE Meeting Agenda
Location:  Town Hall – Hicks Room  
Date: October 9, 2018 @ 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 9, 2018

Comments from the Chairman

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 – September 11, 2018
b)      Minutes of Curriculum/Personnel Committee Meeting – September 25, 2018
c)      Minutes of Policy Committee Meeting – September 25, 2018
d)      Minutes of Finance Committee Meeting – September 25, 2018

Correspondence to the Board:
a)      Annual Asbestos Letter
b)      Update on Hinsdale Renovation – Michelle Hintz

Superintendent’s Reports & Action Items Discussion Possible Action:
a)      Superintendents’ Report
b)      School Enrollment
c)      Chronic Absences
d)      Gilbert Enrollment
e)      Final Budget Report 2017-2018
f)      1st Quarter Financial Report 2018-2019

Board Action Items:
a)      Correction to August BOE Minutes regarding Nancy’s Report
b)      Approval of Revised School Security Plan

Unfinished Business:

New Business Discussion and Possible Action:
a)      Scheduling dates with Gilbert Board

Executive Session: 
a)      Update on ongoing negotiations with teachers (exec. session most likely)

Adjourn

Winchester Board of Education
Type of Meeting: Regular BOE Meeting Agenda - Amended
Location:  Town Hall – Hicks Room 
Date: November 13, 2018 @ 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:  November 13, 2018

Comments from the Chairman

Presentations:
a)      Special Recognition – Kenny Perrault
b)      Special Education Performance Report - Seamus Cullinan & Barbara Silverio

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 9, 2018
b)      Minutes of Special Meeting – October 16 & 23, 2018
c)      Minutes of Special Meeting – October 22, 2018
d)      Minutes of Special Meeting – October 24, 2018
e)      Minutes of Curriculum/Personnel Committee Meeting – October 30, 2018
f)       Minutes of Policy Committee Meeting – October 30, 2018
g)      Minutes of Finance Committee Meeting – October 30, 2018
h)      Minutes of Special Meeting – November 1, 2018

Correspondence to the Board:
a)      None

Update on HSRC by Michelle Hintz and Melony Brady-Shanley

Superintendent’s Reports & Action Items Discussion Possible Action:
a)      Superintendent’s Report
b)      School Enrollment
c)      Chronic Absences
d)      Gilbert Enrollment
e)      New Hires
f)       Soup’s On
g)      Discussion - Driveway at Batcheller

Board Action Items:
a)      Budget Transfers
b)      Approval of WEA Teacher Contract 7/2019 – 6/2022
c)      Voluntary Teacher Retirement Incentive
d)      Approval of 2019-2020 School Calendar

Unfinished Business:

New Business Discussion and Possible Action:
a)         Policy #5144 – 1st Read               
b)         Policy #4000.1 - 1st Read
c)         Policy #9327 – 1st Read

Adjourn 

Winchester Board of Education
Type of Meeting: Regular BOE Meeting Agenda
Location:  Town Hall – Hicks Room 
Date: December 11, 2018 @ 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 11, 2018

Comments from the Chairman
Presentations:
a)      Report on School-Based Health Center

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 13, 2018
b)      Minutes of Special Meeting – November 27, 2018
c)      Minutes of Curriculum/Personnel Committee Meeting – November 27, 2018
d)      Minutes of Special Meeting – December 6, 2018

Correspondence to the Board:
a)      Northwest Connecticut Community Foundation Grant Received

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)      Donation of $300.00 from Painting by Marge, Inc for the usage to support child’s lunch program.

Unfinished Business:

New Business Discussion and Possible Action:
a)      Policy #5114 – 2^nd Read               
b)      Policy #4000.1 – 2^nd Read
c)      Policy #9327.1(a) – 2^nd Read

Adjourn 

Winchester Board of Education
Type of Meeting: Regular BOE Meeting Agenda
Location:  Town Hall – Hicks Room 
Date: January 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:  January 8, 2019

Comments from the Chairman

Presentations:
a)      Quarterly Financial Report
b)      Fiscal Year 2019-2020 Timeline & Enrollment Projection

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 11, 2018
b)      Minutes of Special Meeting – December 12, 2018
c)      Minutes of Finance Committee Meeting – December 18, 2018

Correspondence to the Board:
a)      Certified Teacher Retirement Letter

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

Board Action Items:

Unfinished Business:

New Business Discussion and Possible Action:

Executive Session: 
a)     Contract Process Update Regarding WPS / Gilbert Tuition Agreement

Adjourn 

Winchester Board of Education
Type of Meeting: Special BOE Meeting Agenda - Amended date change
Location:  Town Hall – Hicks Room 
Date: February 26, 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:  February 12, 2019

Comments from the Chairman
a)      Update on Hinsdale School Renovation Committee
b)      WBOE/Gilbert Negotiation Presentation

Presentations:
a)      Literacy Leadership Institute Final Plan – WPS Staff
b)      1^st year Employee Report
c)      Initial Budget Presentation

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 8, 2019
b)      Minutes of Special Meeting – January 14, 2019
c)      Minutes of Special Meeting – January 24, 2019       
d)      Minutes of Curriculum Meeting – January 31, 2019
e)      Minutes of Policy Meeting – January 31, 2019
f)       Minutes of Finance Committee Meeting –January 31, 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

Board Action Items:
a)      Approval of donation to the Summer Lunch Program from Valley Thrift Shop

Unfinished Business:

New Business Discussion and Possible Action:
a)      Policy #5141.3 – 1^st Read
b)      Policy #5141.4 – 1^st Read
c)      Policy #5144.1 – 1^st Read
d)      Policy #5144.4 – 1^st Read

Adjourn 

Winchester Board of Education
Type of Meeting: Regular BOE Meeting Agenda - Amended
Location:  Town Hall – Hicks Room 
Date: March 12, 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:  March 12, 2019

Comments from the Chairman

Presentations:
a)      Bridges Math Presentation
b)      Student Presentation
c)      Batcheller & Pearson Mid-Year Audits - Principals

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 Special BOE Meeting – February 26, 2019
b)      Minutes of Policy Meeting – February 26, 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

Board Action Items:
a)      2019 – 2020 Budget
b)      Approval of Donation to the Critical needs fund from St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church, Kent
c)      Approval of Custodial and Executive & Administrative Contracts

Unfinished Business:

New Business Discussion and Possible Action:
a)      Policy #5141.3 -  Students Health & Immunization – 2^nd Read
b)      Policy #5141.4 -  Reporting Child Abuse, Neglect and Sexual Assault – 2^nd Read
c)      Policy #5144.1 -  Use of Physical Force – 2^nd Read
d)      Policy #5144.4  - Discipline – 2^nd Read
e)      Policy #6142.101 – Student Nutrition & Physical Activity – 1^st Read
f)      Policy #6200 – Adult Continuing Education – 1^st Read

Adjourn 

Winchester Board of Education
Type of Meeting: Regular BOE Meeting Agenda
Location:  Town Hall – Hicks Room 
Date: April 9, 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:  April 9, 2019

Comments from the Chairman
a)      250 years Winchester, 50 years Earth Day

Presentations:
a)      3rd Quarter Financial 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.

Consent Agenda Items Discussion Possible Action:
a)      Minutes of Regular BOE Meeting – March 12, 2019
b)      Minutes of Special Meeting – March 21, 2019
c)      Minutes of Policy Meeting – March 26, 2019
d)      Minutes of Curriculum Meeting – March 26, 2019
e)      Minutes of Special Meeting – April 3, 2019

Correspondence to the Board:
a)      State of CT waiver request letter
b)      2019 Connecticut 4-H Leadership Award – R. Manzer
c)      Report on Hinsdale Renovation Public Session

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

Board Action Items:
a)      Approval to submit the School Readiness Grant
b)      Approval of School Readiness Agreement
c)      Approval of Healthy Food Certification
d)      Approval of non-renewals as it relates to the reduction in force.

Unfinished Business:

New Business Discussion and Possible Action:
a)      Policy #6142.101 – Student Nutrition & Physical Activity – 2nd Read
b)      Policy #6200 – Adult Continuing Education – 2nd Read
c)      Policy # 6114.1 – Fire Emergency Drills/Crisis Response Drills – 1st Read
d)      Policy # 6159 – Individualized Education Program / Special Education – 1st Read
e)      Policy # 6172.12 – Magnet Schools – 1st Read

Executive Session:
a)      Update on Gilbert Corporation / Winchester Public Schools Negotiations

Adjourn 

Winchester Board of Education

Type of Meeting: Regular BOE Meeting Agenda - Amended
Location:  Town Hall – Hicks Room 
Date: May 14, 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:  May 14, 2019

Comments from the Chairman

Student Acknowledgements:
a)      Purpose Topic of Reading

Presentations:
a)      Science Walkthroughs
b)      Gilbert Presentation on Assessment Results

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 – April 9, 2019
b)      Minutes of Special Meeting – April 29, 2019
c)      Minutes of Policy Meeting – April 30, 2019
d)      Minutes of Curriculum Meeting – April 30, 2019
e)      Minutes of Finance Meeting – April 30, 2019
 

Correspondence to the Board:
a)      All-Star Transportation Letter

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)      RFP for Pearson – Nancy O’Dea-Wyrick

Board Action Items:
a)      Anticipated Community Eligibility Provision Monthly Federal Reimbursement for      School Lunch Program
b)      2019-2020 School Calendar Revised
c)      Approval of Sponsorship from Brown & Brown Insurance of $1000.00
d)      Approval of Donation to the Critical needs fund from St. Andrew’s Episcopal                         
         Church, Kent

Unfinished Business:

New Business Discussion and Possible Action:
a)      Policy # 6114.1 – Fire Emergency Drills/Crisis Response Drills – 2^nd Read
b)      Policy # 6159 – Individualized Education Program / Special Education – 2^nd Read
c)      Policy # 6172.12 – Magnet Schools – 2^nd Read

 Adjourn 

Winchester Board of Education

Type of Meeting: Regular BOE Meeting Agenda
Location:  Town Hall – Hicks Room 
Date: June 11, 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:  June 11, 2019

Comments from the Chairman

Presentations:
a)      End of Year Assessment Results
b)      Year to Date Business 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.

Consent Agenda Items Discussion Possible Action:
a)      Minutes of Regular BOE Meeting – May 14, 2019
b)      Minutes of Special Meeting – May 22, 2019
c)      Minutes of Policy Meeting – May 28, 2019
d)      Minutes of Finance Meeting – May 28, 2019
e)      Minutes of Special Meeting – May 31, 2019
 

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

Board Action Items:
a)      PowerSchool Efinance Plus Financial System $45,064.08
b)      Single Source Approval – Otis Elevator $32,000.00
c)      Replace Pearson School Sinks, Faucets and Associated Plumbing to Avon                         
         Plumbing & Heating Co. Inc. $68,625.00
d)      Replace Pearson Schools Front & Southeast side entry doors with Secure Access to
         Goulet Glass Inc. $87,607.00
e)      Approval of Nurse’s Union Contract
f)      Approval of Superintendent’s Contract to June 30, 2022.
g)      Decision Regarding Status of The Gilbert School Designation.
h)      Ed Specification for Hinsdale
i)       FRC Grant Approval
j)       Recommendation to hire additional 4^th-grade teacher due to an increase in    
         enrollment.
k)      Board of Education Committee Membership 2019-2020

Unfinished Business:
a)      Update on Gilbert Negotiations

New Business Discussion and Possible Action:
a)      Policy # 6141.327(a) – Electronic Resources
b)      Policy # 3520.14 – Cybersecurity (Tabled to September’s Policy Committee
         Meeting)
c)      Policy # 5131.81 – Cellular Phones / Electronic Communication Devices (Tabled 
         to September’s Policy Committee Meeting)
d)      Policy # 5132 – Dress & Grooming (Tabled to September’s Policy Committee
         Meeting)

 Adjourn 
 

Winchester Board of Education
Type of Meeting: Special Meeting Agenda
Date:  July 9, 2018 @ 10:00 am
Location:  178 West Road Winsted, CT

I.      Call to order

II.     Roll call

III.    Business – BOE Retreat

a.  Update Mission & Vision Statements    
b.  Update BOE Goals
c.  Expectations of Attendance at Committee Meetings
d.  Gilbert & WEA Negotiations
e.  Messaging for Building Renovations
f.   CABE Convention

IV.      Adjournment

Winchester Board of Education
Type of Meeting: Special Meeting Agenda
Date:  October 16, 2018 @ 7:00 pm
Location:  Town Hall, 3^rd Floor Conference Room  

I.      Call to order

II.      Roll call

III.      Interview and Selection of BOE Candidates

IV.      Adjournment

Winchester Board of Education
Type of Meeting: Special Meeting Agenda
Date:  October 22, 2018 @ 6:00 pm
Location:  The Gilbert School Conference Room   

I.      Call to order

II.      Roll call

III.      Business
a)    Winchester Public Schools and The Gilbert School Negotiations

IV.      Adjournment

Winchester Board of Education
Type of Meeting: Special Meeting Agenda
Date:  October 23, 2018 @ 7:00 pm
Location:  Town Hall – 3rd Floor Conference Room    

I.      Call to order

II.      Roll call

III.      Business
         a)      Candidate interviews (executive session possible)
         b)      Board review of candidates qualifications (executive session)
         c)      Vote for selection of new BOE member  

IV.      Adjournment

Winchester Board of Education
Type of Meeting: Special Meeting Agenda
Date:  October 24, 2018 @ 3:00 pm
Location:  Town Hall – 3rd Floor Conference Room    

I.      Call to order

II.      Roll call

III.      Business
          a)  Winchester Public Schools and The Gilbert School Negotiations

IV.      Adjournment

Winchester Board of Education
Type of Meeting: Special Meeting Agenda
Date:  November 1, 2018 @ 6:00 pm
Location:  The Gilbert School Library

I.      Call to order

II.      Roll call

III.      Business
          a)      Negotiations regarding a successor contract between Winchester Public Schools and The W. L. Gilbert School Corporation.

IV.      Adjournment

Winchester Board of Education
Type of Meeting: Special Meeting Agenda
Date:  November 14, 2018 @ 3:00 pm
Location:  Town Hall – 3rd Floor Conference Room

I.      Call to order

II.      Roll call

III.      Business
          a)      Negotiations regarding a successor contract between Winchester Public Schools and The W. L. Gilbert School Corporation.

IV.      Adjournment

Winchester Board of Education
Type of Meeting: Special Meeting Agenda
Date:  November 27, 2018 @ 6:30 pm
Location:  Town Hall – Blue Room

I.      Call to order

II.      Roll call

III.      Executive Session
          a)      Level III Custodial Grievance

IV.      Adjournment

Winchester Board of Education
Type of Meeting: Special Meeting Agenda
Date:  December 6, 2018 @ 6:00 pm
Location:  Beardsley Library

I. Call to order

II. Roll call

III. Business
    a) Winchester Public Schools and The Gilbert School

IV. Adjournment

Winchester Board of Education
Type of Meeting: Special Meeting Agenda
Date:  December 12, 2018 @ 6:15 pm
Location:  Town Hall – Hicks Room

I.      Call to order

II.      Roll call

III.      Business
          a)      Winchester Public Schools and The Gilbert School Negotiations

IV.      Adjournment

Winchester Board of Education
Type of Meeting: Special Meeting Agenda
Date:  January 14, 2019 @ 6:00 pm
Location:  The Gilbert School Guidance Conference Room

I.             Call to order

II.            Roll call

III.           Business

a)           Negotiations regarding a successor contract between Winchester Board of Education and the W.L. Gilbert School Corporation

IV.          Adjournment

Winchester Board of Education
Type of Meeting: Special Meeting Agenda
Date:  January 24, 2019 @ 6:30 pm
Location:  2nd Probate Room @ Town Hall

I.      Call to order

II.      Roll call

III.      New business
          a.      Individual Working Budget Meeting

IV.      Adjournment

Winchester Board of Education
Type of Meeting: Special Meeting Agenda - Canceled due to weather
Date:  February 5, 2019 @ 5:30 pm
Location:  Town Hall – 3rd Floor Conference Room

I.      Call to order

II.      Roll call

III.      Business
          a)      Negotiations regarding a successor contract between Winchester Board of Education and the W.L. Gilbert School Corporation

IV.      Adjournment

Winchester Board of Education
Type of Meeting: Special Meeting Agenda
Date:  March 7, 2019 @ 6:00 pm
Location:  Beardsley Library

I.      Call to order
 

II.      Roll call

III.      Business
a)      Quarterly Gilbert Corporation / Winchester Public Schools BOE  Meeting
 

IV.      Adjournment

Winchester Board of Education
Type of Meeting: Special Meeting
Location:  Town Hall 338 Main Street Winsted, CT - Blue Room
Date:  Thursday, March 21, 2019 @ 6:00 p.m.

Meeting Facilitator: Melony Brady-Shanley, Superintendent  Nancy O’Dea-Wyrick, Director of Finance

Invitees: Michelle Hintz, Nora Mocarski, Doug Pfenninger, Kristen Peterson, Shana DeVoux, Chris Royer, Richard Dutton, Alexia Propfe, and Cheryl Heffernan.

   I.            Call to order

   II.            Roll Call

  III.            Business
                  a)         Discuss Joint Finance

  IV.            Adjourn

Winchester Board of Education
Type of Meeting: Special Meeting
Location:  Town Hall 338 Main Street Winsted, CT – 3rd Floor Conference Room
Date:  Wednesday, March 27, 2019 @ 11:00 a.m.

 I.            Call to order

 II.            Roll Call

 III.            Business
                      a)         Joint Finance Committee Meeting between Winchester Board of Education & The Gilbert Corp.

 IV.            Adjourn

Winchester Board of Education
Type of Meeting: Special Meeting
Location:  Town Hall 338 Main Street Winsted, CT – Blue Room
Date:  Wednesday, April 3, 2019 @ 7:00 p.m.

        I.            Call to order

       II.            Roll Call

      III.            Business
                      a)         Discuss the 2019 -2020 Fiscal Year Budget

     IV.            Adjourn

Winchester Board of Education
Type of Meeting: Special Meeting
Location:  Town Hall 338 Main Street Winsted, CT – Blue Room
Date:  Tuesday, April 23, 2019 @ 7:00 p.m.

        I.            Call to order

       II.            Roll Call

      III.            Business
                      a)         Discuss the 2019 -2020 Fiscal Year Budget

     IV.            Adjourn

Winchester Board of Education
Type of Meeting: Special Meeting
Location:  Gilbert School 2^nd Floor Conference Room
Date:  Monday April 29, 2019 @ 6:30 p.m.

        I.            Call to order

       II.            Roll Call

      III.            Business
                      a)   Negotiations of the Gilbert School & Winchester Public Schools Contract for 2019-2020

     IV.            Adjourn

Winchester Board of Education
Type of Meeting: Special Meeting
Location:  NWCCC – Joyner Building – Room 134
Date:  Wednesday, May 22, 2019 @ 6:00 – 8:00 p.m.

1. Call to order
    
2. Roll Call
    
3. Business

a)         Facilitated Joint Board of Education / Gilbert Corporation meeting to discuss concerns, philosophy and collaboration.  

4. Adjourn

Winchester Board of Education
Type of Meeting: Special Meeting
Location:  Town Hall – Blue Room
Date:  May 31, 2019 @ 11:00 a.m.  

1. Call to order
    
2. Roll Call
    
3. Business
   a)         Negotiation of successor contract between Winchester Board of Education & Gilbert Corporation.
    
4. Adjourn

Winchester Board of Education
Type of Meeting: Regular BOE Meeting - Minutes
Location:  Town Hall – P. Francis Hicks Room, 2nd Floor
Date: August 14, 2018 @ 7:00 p.m.

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

Board of Education (BOE) Members (in alphabetical order by last name): Shana DeVoux, Jamie Duffy, Dr. Richard Dutton, Cheryl Heffernan, Michelle Hintz, Nora Mocarski, Secretary: Doug Pfenninger, Chairman: Alexandria Propfe, Christine Royer

Call to order @ 7:00pm

Pledge of Allegiance

Roll call:

PRESENT: M. Brady-Shanley, Superintendent S. Cullinan, Director of Student Services, J. Duffy, R. Dutton, C. Heffernan, M. Hintz, N. Mocarski, N. O’Dea-Wyrick, Director of Finance & Business Services, D. Pfenninger, BOE Chair, A. Propfe, C. Royer, S. DeVoux

ABSENT: None

Agenda Review Discussion Possible Action:

         Motion to establish Liaison to the PTO

         First, M. Hintz, second J. Duffy – 8- 0 unanimous

         Motion to read Dr. Ellen Stolts letter

         First: M. Hintz, second J. Duffy – 8-0 unanimous

         Motion to move up the appointment of Batcheller’s principal

         First, C. Royers, second M. Hintz – 8-0 unanimous

Comments from the Chairman:

BOE Chairman D. Pfenninger gave a refresher of the July meeting. He read the Winchester Schools mission statement and the Board of Education mission statement. He stated the Board’s mission was to emphasize growth and development in students.

Presentations:

• New Staff Members to Winchester Public Schools – Principal Silverio of Pearson and Acting Principal Ms. Field of Batcheller recognized and presented new staff members of Winchester Public Schools; Pre-K (Mary Sue Hinks and Kishana Pinnock), Kindergarten Assistants (Jessica Seymour, Sheryl Dorie, Barbara LeFrancois) Kindergarten (Kaitlin Fasino), 1st/2nd grade (Samantha Carpinello, Katie Cimmino, Chiara DeBisschop), Special Education (Rebecca Daddona), Paraprofessionals (Monica Namey, Gigette Ursone, Kristy Stearns) Behavioral Technician (Alexis Calder) Climate Control Officer (Matt Fadziewicz) Nicollette Kovacs (Speech & Language) and  Interventionists (Justina McGuire, Sherry Artruc). Closing statement
• Alliance Building Grant Update – N. O’Dea-Wyrick presented the Alliance Building Grant Update. Alliance Building Grant goes through to the end of October. Projects attempted at Hinsdale, state willing to switch Batcheller’s and Hinsdale. State provide permission to replace/repair the front steps at Batcheller. Bids are due on the 22nd of August. Pearson school projects completed – repaving of the parking lot and walkway, hand dryers installed, trying to replace countertops and sinks, trying to replace kitchen freezer with refrigerator/freezer combination, etc.
• Presentation of Rosanne Fields as Batcheller’s school Principal effective August 15th, 2018
  Motion to approve Rosanne Field’s appointment as Principal
  First: C. Royer, second: J. Duffy. – unanimous 8-0
• Finance Report FY 2018 – N. O’Dea-Wyrick presented. Larger remaining balance than anticipated, with an appropriation balance of $151,676. Grant funding not distributed until midyear. Used the state money first and held onto the town funds as long as possible. 72,000 balance in professional technical services and speech and language service/psychological services. Transportation was down due to lack of out of district attendance. Couldn’t get contracts by June 30th. A bit leftover because of workers comp and insurance cost reductions and fewer services for students in out of district magnet school. Transportation, All-Star, replacement of the buses for new equipment stated in the contract for four new big buses and two new small buses. All-Star is doing well and managed to get six new big buses and three new small buses. A fleet of 8 big buses within two years. Benefits of new buses – diesel, more reliable, under warranty.
• 1% non-lapsing fund. N. O’Dea-Wyrick presented. A non-lapsing fund is a fund with the authority to carry its balance from one fiscal year to the next. Requested nod to seek the Town’s permission to establish the fund for possible use as the go-ahead money for Hinsdale. $151,000 available for the fund. The non-lapsing fund cannot roll-over and has to be spent each year. Seamus, no surprises in special ed, numbers are down, with 26 students placed out of district as compared to and when Seamus started which was the 60s.
• Facilities Update Pearson and Batcheller’s teachers ordered to empty classroom and custodians ordered to do deep clean, with progress sheets on every room door – everything cleaned and painted. Batcheller’s playground cleaned up. Pearson walkway and parking lot repaved. Maintained lighting and eliminated middle island, which opened for 15 parking spaces. New carpeting in the music room. Pearson gym flooring was redone. Lockers repainted. Library new carpet and fresh paint, and new tables and whiteboards. Friends of Main Street donated train and decorations donated by the PTO to Pearson Library. Books organized by content and theme rather than the Dewey Decimal system which makes it easier for kids and teachers to find the necessary books. Group learning areas added to Pearson Library. Science labs painted, and new storage spaces added. Student resource center at Pearson painted and carpeted, with physical, sensory, and relaxing exercises added over the years for the students. C. Royers asked if the Pearson library is satisfactory, and Silverio stated there is still a long way to go, but there has been a lot of progress. Alliance Structural Grant has social media and updated books budget allotted. Outdated books have been replaced, but new books are always appreciated. Chairman asked about the exterior doors and exterior steamed windows. Nancy is still awaiting approval on the doors from the state, but the steamed windows are underway. Seamed windows would need to go to bid. Architectural mockup due back Sept. 10th. Eversource Project agreed to be utilized at Pearson and Hinsdale. The additional cost of 17,000.

Report on Hinsdale School Renovation Committee – Michelle Hintz

Two meetings so far. First used to meet everyone and establish positions. Second meeting walked through RFP. Friday to walk through Hinsdale with eight architects and a walk through with community members. Bids back Sept. 10th. Sept. 24 and 25, interviews with the architect. Architect announced Sept. 28. Completed Nov. 16th and prices estimated. After Nov. 16, Board of Education the matter will be put up for a referendum. C. Heffernan asked about State funds for the project. M. Hintz and M. Brady-Shanley advised the State will not get involved until the town has shown its support for the project but that the architects that bid on these projects are very experienced in what the State will agree to. Winchester has a high reimbursement rate for these projects at 70%. Hinsdale School renovation committee meeting information is available on the Winchester School.org and the Winchester townsite.

Public Hearing:  None.

Consent Agenda Items Discussion Possible Action:

a) Minutes of Regular BOE Meeting – June 12, 2018

Motion to approve – First C. Heffernan. Second J. Duffy – 8-0 unanimous

b)  Minutes of Special Board of Education Meeting – July 9, 2018

Motion to approve – First C. Heffernan, second J. Duffy – 8-0 unanimous

Correspondence to the Board:
Dr. Ellen Stoltz to the Commissioner of Education – praised the Winchester public schools and the Board of Education. When adults focus on the development of all student, all students benefit.

Superintendent’s Reports & Action Items Discussion Possible Action:

a)  Superintendents’ Report  - Continue curriculum with EdAdvance - Math and EL units completed by October 2018. Fall BOE meeting with an overview of the unit and curriculum changes. 20 staff members spend the summer working on the unit and curriculum planning, having completed NGSS training at Pearson. Students will focus on tsunamis. August 23th and 24th are new teacher orientations. August 27th BOE members welcome to attend 8:00 AM convocation. August 27th from 5:30pm-6: 30 pm PreK and K are running an Open House/Meet and Greet. August 27th and 28th is Teacher Professional Learning Day. August 28th from 2:00pm-3: 00 pm Grade 1 to 6 are hosting a Meet and Greet. September 4th is the first day of school for PreK and Kindergarten. September 18th from 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm is Open House for Grades 1 and 2. September 20th from 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm is the Open House for Grade 3 to 6. Student have the first week of school to develop relations and start the first unit of study. Completed Alliance Grant application and Commissioner’s Network Grants for $625,000 to Batcheller and $725,000 to Pearson. BOE held the 2nd Annual Summer Retreat. Summer finance report released, received via post. Postcards to family, more eye-catching then letters. Playground set to be delivered on August 27th – on site on the 29th and erection Sept. 4th. Two weeks to construct.

b)  School Enrollment – Increased enrollment – new families from St Anthony’s, magnet school programs, and move-ins. Enrollment before was 531, as of now its 540 total students. The highest number of students in years.  Torrington teachers say Winchester schools are doing well.

c)  New Hires – Listed in the packet. Seamus adds they hired a special education teacher for essential skills class – Rebecca Dadona– for the kids with anxiety.

d)  Gilbert Enrollment - conversation with Gilbert on enrollment – 464 Winchester students, international students number not yet reported, two students from other districts – 466. J. Duffy request to list by section. J. Duffy asked for the list in June, and Gilbert said did not have time to provide at that point.

e)  Submission of Commissioner Network and Alliance Grant – submitted the application of the Alliance Grant. Currently, have the Commissioner’s Network Grant.

Board Action Items:

a)  Cost of School Lunches – N. O’Dea-Wyrick presents. Need to raise the cost of school lunches based on a formula dictated by the feds. The formula states $2.92 for lunch. Currently charging $2.75. Suggests $2.90 for school lunches.

Motion to charge $2.90 for school lunches

First: M. Hintz, second, C. Royer. 8-0 unanimous.

Unfinished Business:    None

New Business Discussion and Possible Action:  None

Executive Session: 
Initial discussion regarding Gilbert Contract Negotiations and Winchester Education Association Contract.Motion to go to executive session First J. Duffy, second C. Heffernan.

Motion to exit executive session First M. Hintz, Second A. Propfe

Adjourn

Motion to adjourn @ 9:19pm First: C. Royer, Second C. Heffernan

WINCHESTER BOARD OF EDUCATION
Type of Meeting:  REGULAR BOARD OF EDUCATION MEETING - MINUTES
Date:  TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2018
Location:  P. FRANCIS HICKS ROOM, 2ND FLOOR, TOWN HALL – 7:00 P.M.

Board of Education (BOE) Members (in alphabetical order by last name): Shana DeVoux, Jamie Duffy, Dr. Richard Dutton, Cheryl Heffernan, Michelle Hintz, Nora Mocarski, Secretary; Doug Pfenninger, Chairman; Alexandria Propfe, Christine Royer

Call to Order @ 7:10pm

Roll call:

Dr. Richard Dutton, Cheryl Heffernan, Michelle Hintz, Nora Mocarski, Secretary; Doug Pfenninger, Chairman; Alexandria Propfe,

Absent:

Jamie Duffy, Shana DeVoux, Christine Royer

Agenda Review Possible Action

None.

Comments from the Chairman:

Excused absence process: Please call the BOE Chair as a courtesy if absent before the meeting.

We must begin to think about expanding partnerships in the community to promote further success as a community. This includes working with Gilbert Board, the Board of Selectman in the development of a community-wide strategic vision for all grades, Pre-K through 12.

Presentations

New Enrollment Presentation - Melony Brady-Shanley - [BOE Packet page 3]

33 new families as of this report; Data includes where these families are living in the community. These locations include diverse areas around our community, single and multi-housing units.

Some students left district: These were mostly students who have moved out of town or left the state.

SBAC Results [BOE Packet pp. 4-10]

Significant gains - Out of 188 educational entities, Winchester Public Schools is ranked #1 for most improved math scores and #19 for most improved reading scores. Recognition of all those who helped to contribute to the success of the district’s success was made. These gains are a product of efforts of multiple individuals. Of particular note: Freeman Burr and Ellen Stoltz were present and recognized as key initiators leaders of our district’s success. 

Question from BOE: How much of that financial contributions played a role in this success? Answer: It was a combination of leadership and monies/resources to program for students.

The superintendent will seek the extension of the Commissioner Network funds.

Results by subgroup will be presented at a later BOE meeting.

Public Hearing

Bob Geiger, Town Manager to comment:

“We cannot have a great town without a great school.”

Freeman Burr to comment:

“Thank you to Superintendent Melony Brady-Shanley for the invitation and kind remarks. It is appropriate to give credit to the faculty/staff [for the success of the district].” Both Burr and Stoltz appreciated the welcome they received when they were here working in the district and were happy they were able to build credibility and trust with those in the district. Commended the BOE for their leadership.

Consent Agenda Items

Minutes - Motion to approve: FIRST: Michelle Hintz, SECOND: Dr. Richard Dutton → Unanimous.

Correspondence to the BOE

Presented NIS-CT Audit successfully completed. [BOE Packet, page 16]

Superintendent’s Report & Action Items

Superintendent’s Report - [BOE Packet, page 17-18]

Superintendent Brady-Stanley attended a panel called, “Performance Matters” with the State of Connecticut. The focus was on data systems. Members of The Gilbert School attended as well.

Finance - The playground is to be completed in 2 weeks. Grand opening date TBD

Alliance Grant approved. Commissioner’s Network funds approved.

Funding for the Hinsdale steps is from state funding. They are to be built to code and ADA compliance. Completion date TBD

The RFP - Closed as of yesterday, 9/10/18. We have received six (6) valid submissions. The Building Committee is to review these on September 17, 2018.

School Climate Officer (SCO) is to work with students on how to play together on the playground. To teach passion and inclusivity. Will not be armed.

Meet & Greets were held. Pre-K - K Open Houses. We had many families from Pearson as well.  Sign in sheets for families were used to provide a record of the number of families.

74 families from Pre-K to K transition.

We had approximately 150 families in Pearson.

We also had four (4) half days from the heat. 85% to 88% degree rooms. Portable A/Cs were placed in on the third floor at Pearson.

Enrollment - holding steady at 538 for the district. We were had 518 enrolled last August. We are pulling people back to our district.

Chronic Absences - Attn. Averages shared page 20.

New Hires [BOE Packet pp. 21-31]

Gilbert Enrollment - We have been asking for enrollment numbers on a monthly basis

As if September: 472 students enrolled at TGS.

44 international students and two students (2) from other school districts

Board Action Items - None.

Unfinished Business

Regarding the 1% - Upon closure of 2017-18 BOE budget - once all bills have been paid, this will transfer over to the 2018-2019 school year. The Board of Selectmen has approved the 1%.

New Business

Promotional SBAC Celebration Conversation: Discussion on how to share the good news about student performance gains on SBAC. Ideas included social media, perhaps a booth at the Fall Foliage Festival, a banner at Pearson, among others.

Quarterly Meeting with Gilbert - We should be meeting with Gilbert at least four times a year. These meetings are beyond those Winchester BOE members who serve on the regular Gilbert meetings. We need to get dates on the calendar with Gilbert to have this happen. Negotiation dates have not yet been established.

Those who serve on the Gilbert Board will address this at the next meeting with Gilbert.

Negotiation dates will be set up in conjunction with Superintendent Brady-Stanley and Dr. Serio.

Evaluation of the Board of Education Chairman: To speak into the microphone more, but otherwise he is doing an excellent job.

Executive Session - 8:12pm

MOTION to invite Seamus Cullinan and Melony Brady-Shanley to go into Executive Session for the purposes to discuss a confidential legal matter. → FIRST: Cheryl Heffernan, SECOND: Michelle Hintz. → Unanimous.

MOTION to come out of Executive Session at 8:54 pm. → FIRST: Cheryl Heffernan, SECOND: Alexandria Propfe → Unanimous.

Adjourn

MOTION to adjourn at 8:55 pm. FIRST: Alexandria Propfe, SECOND: Cheryl Heffernan → Unanimous.

Winchester Board of Education Regular Meeting Minutes 
Date:  October 9, 2018
Meeting Facilitator: Melony Brady-Shanley, Superintendent and Nora Mocarski, acting Chairman

Board of Education Members: Dr. Richard Dutton, Cheryl Heffernan, Michelle Hintz, Secretary: Nora Mocarski, Alexandria Propfe, Christine Royer, Shana DeVoux and Doug Pfenninger

Call to Order @7: 00 pm

Pledge of Allegiance

Roll Call:

PRESENT: Chris Royer, Cheryl Heffernan, Michelle Hintz, Melony Brady-Shanley, Nora Mocarski, Alex Propfe and Dr. Dutton

ABSENT: (excused) Doug Pfenninger; (unexcused) Shana DeVoux

Agenda Review:

Motion to add Letter of Resignation under Correspondence

First: Dr. Dutton; Second: Cheryl P - 5-0 unanimous

Friendly amendment - add letter as number C

First: Chris R; Second Alex P - 5-0 unanimous

Motion to add conversation about dates for Interviews under New Business as letter B.

First: Chris R; Second: Cheryl P - 5-0 unanimous

Motion to add ED09 under section Board actions items as C.

First: Chris R; Second: Cheryl P - 5-0 unanimous

Motion to add M Core loan approval item add under Board Actions item as D

First: Chris R; Second: Cheryl P - 5-0 unanimous

Motion to eliminate executive session.

First: Chris R; Second: Cheryl P - 5-0 unanimous

 

Comments from the Chairman:

It’s been a pleasure to be chairing tonight.

Presentations:  None

Public Hearing: None

Consent Agenda Items Discussion Possible Action:

Motion to approve all.

First: Chris R; Second: Alex P - 5-0 unanimous

 

Correspondence to the Board:

a)    Letter required by the state - all schools part of asbestos management - the letter was sent out

b)    Hinsdale School Renovation: 6 firms HSRC - interviewing five firms on Thursday and Monday; Deciding following the meeting on Monday

c)    Letter of resignation from Jamie Duffy - Nora read the letter that was received on October 1st at the town clerk's office; no letter was sent to the BOE; we have 30 days from receipt of the letter at town clerk's office

 

Superintendent's Report

Finance: Heading to Mediation on WEA negotiation

Community & Climate: Great job on the reading challenge; assembly called ‘Yes You Can’; Building strong community feeling within the school via assembly; Riverfront recapture field trip.

WPS enrollment is up four since August; 96% attendance rate; September was a rough month in both schools due to illness

Finance Report

Final 17-18 budget report - $4K end balance more than thought due to projects not being as expected - $155,025 will go into the non-lapsing fund (non-expiring fund)

1st quarter report: $15K unencumbered - extra money for snow; was able to hire a speech and language path. So saving money there because no longer contracting it out.

Facilities

Pearson Playground completed

Replacing freezer and exterior doors at Pearson

Exterior lighting has been fixed, and the parking lot has been reconfigured at Batcheller

Roof leaking has been patched above three classrooms and cafeteria at Batcheller (may need to address the roof at a later date for long-term approach)

Looking to investigate the possibility of consolidating 8-9 bus stops on Pratt street to help facilitate traffic and address safety issues.

Board action items

Motion to amend the August BOE minutes, Switch Batcheller to Hinsdale

First: Cheryl H; Second: Chris R - 5-0 unanimous

No action needed on the approval of the revised school security plan - it will be signed by Nora, and the BOE needs to acknowledge it.

Motion to approve EO9 to allow the district to take part in the national school lunch

First: Chris R; Second: Cheryl - 5-0 unanimous

 

** Note - Alex left meeting at 7:33 pm

Motion to approval to execute the documents for the M Core Loan and have Nora sign

First: Dr. Dutton; Second: Chris R - 4-0 unanimous (one absent)

** Note - Alex rejoined meeting at 7:36 pm

 

New Business

Per current contract, the BOE should meet with Gilbert Board.  Michelle will email proposed dates to board

Interview dates for BOE vacant spot - Tuesday the 23rd (start time TBD)

Motion to adjourn

First: Cheryl H; Second: Alex P - 5-0 unanimous

WINCHESTER BOARD OF EDUCATION
Type of Meeting:  REGULAR BOARD OF EDUCATION MEETING - MINUTES
Date:  TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 2018
Location:  P. FRANCIS HICKS ROOM, 2ND FLOOR, TOWN HALL – 7:00 P.M.

Board of Education (BOE) Members (in alphabetical order by last name): Shana DeVoux, Dr. Richard Dutton, Cheryl Heffernan, Michelle Hintz, Nora Mocarski, Secretary; Kristin Peterson, Doug Pfenninger, Chairman; Alexandria Propfe, Christine Royer

Called to order at 7:01 pm.

Roll:   

Present: C. Royer, K. Peterson, M. Hintz, D. Pfenninger, N. Mocarski, R. Dutton, C. Heffernan
M. Brady-Shanley, Superintendent. S. Cullinan, Director of Student Services, N. O’Dea-Wyrick, Director of Finance & Business Services, Barbara Silverio, Principal, Pearson School, Rosanne Field, Batcheller Principal

    Excused: A. Propfe, S. DeVoux

Agenda Review

    Add report of Curriculum Committee after Correspondence to the Board

    MOTION: First: D. Pfenninger, Second: M. Hintz → U

Comments from Chair

    Welcome Kristen Peterson

Professional Development session from last week was discussed, and the Board Chair thanked the faculty and staff for the time involved in the planning and engagement in training.

Presentations

    Kenny Perrault was recognized for helping a staff member in the Winchester Public Schools

    Seamus Cullinan & Barb Silverio presented the SBAC & CTAA Special Education Performance Report

Special education students take the CT Alternate Assessment rather than Smarter Balanced if they qualify. Assesses standards in a way for students to access the test.

    We hope to train all special education teachers to administer these tests.

2016-17 ELA and Math - Growth targets are established by the State of Connecticut. Winchester students who engaged in the CTAA showed stronger growth for Math than ELA

For ELA focuses for improvement, include using the Wilson reading program, reading specialists, coaches, remediation, inclusion including learning how to take the SBAC, instruction by core teachers, pull-out for discrete instruction

SERC has been providing some training. Winchester Public Schools is at the forefront of this training with SERC

Public Hearing - None.

Consent Agenda

     First: Chris second Cheryl → U

Curriculum Committee reported out on the last meeting from October 30, 2018 - Nora Mocarski

      Rachael Manzer presented the plans and tools for development and rolled out of the NGSS standards.

Critical thinking, real-world problems, professional development, curriculum template, science 4x week. Classroom Walkthroughs scheduled for November 29, 2018, from 8 am to 1 pm

Building Committee reported out - Michelle Hintz

Petrocelli was the firm that was unanimously selected. Documents to be made available mid-Fed. Community meetings will be scheduled to discuss renovations. No dollar figures are available at this point.

Any community questions or concerns about the transition of schools and programming are to be directed to Superintendent Brady-Shanley. The group met with the architects to begin initial discussions on building layout, security, etc. Looking at renovations to make Hinsdale safe and healthy environment. Architects must look at various options and ideas as required including, but not limited to, plans to renovate to new, a project based renovation, and the cost for the brand new building. This information is to be then given to the Town of Winchester to then decide the best course of action.

Citizens who wish for more information or to remain updated on the project are encouraged to go to Winchesterschools.org - to be updated weekly.

The firm will report to the Board of Selectman (BOS). The BOS will have the final say if this goes forward

       Note regarding a flood plan: every school has to file a plan to obtain funding.

Correspondence to the Board

        None

Superintendent’s Report & Action Items

         Attendance/absentee reported - WBOE Goals: Pearson’s goal under 5% and Batcheller under 7%

         Hiring notices shared with Board

         “Soup’s On” program and rationale discussed:  to connect parents, children, and faculty members

         Inclement weather cards sent in the mail regarding communication of procedures

Parent drop off at Batcheller - map shared. We will be at Batcheller for at least two more years. The concern to reduce congestion and ensure safety. Proposal for the creation of a 40’ long additional driveway - estimate $12,000.

MOTION: To authorize the superintendent to proceed with the 40’ driveway project in reference to the physical construction as necessary

         First: R. Dutton, Second C. Heffernan → 4 for, 1 against, 2 abstain.

Superintendent Brady-Shanley agreed to do further research for our December BOE meeting regarding P & Z and two more quotes and public works, as well as to investigate possible consolidation of bus stops.

Board Action Items

         Four budget transfers requested.

We did not have all grant information when we first constructed the budget. We also made assumptions of the cost of adding staff. Facilities are in need to repair especially at Pearson. Additional variable includes snow removal this year.

          To move 30,000 from wages to cover Behavioral tech and Climate officer

          To move 30,000 from wages for a long-term sub for a teacher out for the rest of the year

          To move 100,000 from wages to facilities

To move 5,000 from wages to travel for reimbursement for miles and food for training such as Columbia training in Manhattan, to Boston for Reading. All reimbursements are at IRS rates for miles and meals.

          MOTION: Move to approve line item transfers: First: R. Dutton, Second: M. Hintz → U

New Business

          Teachers’ contract ratified.

          MOTION: to accept the teacher’s contract as ratified.

First M Hintz. Second: Dr. Dutton → U

Teacher retirement incentive on page 43 of BOE packet to free up funding for the budget the following

year.  One year only because some grants are sunsetting soon.

Change the language of date of receipt of the notice.

MOTION: to approve the teacher’s retirement incentive with changes to the language to “date of receipt.”

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

          School calendar on the amended agenda

          Collaborating with surrounding schools

          MOTION to accept the school calendar for 2019-2020

First: M. Hintz, Second: R. Dutton → U

          Policies - First Read

          5114 - Suspension, Expulsion, Due Process

          Must leave as “shall” suspend in the language, per state law.

4000 - Sexual discrimination. To include “including but not limited to…”

Policy to add the language discussed at the Policy Committee meeting. C. Heffernan to type up and add and to update “his or her” to “their…”

9327.1(a) - To strike the first paragraph before “OR.”

9327.1 Appendix reviewed

Second read in December.

Policy meeting to be conducted in December to be run by C. Heffernan in M. Hintz’s absence.

Adjourn

       MOTION to adjourn at 8:59.

First: M. Hintz, Second: C. Royer.

WINCHESTER BOARD OF EDUCATION
Type of Meeting:  REGULAR BOARD OF EDUCATION MEETING - MINUTES
Date:  TUESDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2018
Location:  P. FRANCIS HICKS ROOM, 2ND FLOOR, TOWN HALL – 7:00 P.M.

Board of Education (BOE) Members (in alphabetical order by last name): Shana DeVoux, Dr. Richard Dutton, Cheryl Heffernan, Michelle Hintz, Nora Mocarski, Secretary; Kristin Peterson, Doug Pfenninger, Chairman; Alexandria Propfe, Christine Royer

Called to order at 7:01 pm.

Roll:   

Present: S. DeVoux, K. Peterson, M. Hintz, D. Pfenninger, N. Mocarski, R. Dutton,M. Brady-Shanley, Superintendent., N. O’Dea-Wyrick, Director of Finance & Business Services, Barbara Silverio, Principal, Pearson School, Rosanne Field, Batcheller Principal

Excused: C. Royer, C. Heffernan, A. Propfe, S. Cullinan, Director of Student Services

Agenda Review

Add listing of 2019-2020 Board of Education Meeting Dates and Committee Meeting Dates
Motion: First: M. Hintz, Second: N. Mocarski → U

Comments from Chair - None.

Presentations
Letter from the School-Based Health Center was read into the record by Superintendent Brady-Shanley.

The school-based team of specialists, administrators, and parent(s) would work to decide the most appropriate resource for the student on a case by case basis, between what the school offers and what the School-Based Health Center offers.

It was requested that this program is added to the larger discussion of the transition strategy between the Winchester Public Schools and The Gilbert School vis-a-vis transitioning therapy to The Gilbert School.

Public Hearing

Mr. James Poirot of 62 Spencer Street - requests that the Winchester Board of Education take into consideration the “downstream” impacts to families and children if the preschool and after school programs that are currently underway unfunded going forward. Asks that we ensure proper funding of these programs going forward.

Consent Agenda
Motion to strike “Negotiations” under III, a) from the Special Meeting Agenda of December 6, 2018.
First: K. Peterson. Second: N. Mocarski → U.
Motion to approve the Consent Agenda as amended.
First: N. Mocarski, Second: M. Hintz → U

Correspondence to the Board

Northwest Connecticut Community Foundation Grant was well received and the Winchester Board of Education would like to thank the Northwest Connecticut Community Foundation for its generosity.

Superintendent’s Report & Action Items
Superintendent’s Report was read into the record.
School enrollment was reviewed. Numbers net the same.
Chronic Absences was reviewed noting a bout of illnesses in September and in November.  However, November numbers may have been influenced by families deciding to extend the Thanksgiving holiday.
Gilbert Enrollment was discussed.

Board Action Items
Motion to accept the $300.00 donation from Painting by Marge, Inc. for the usage to support child’s lunch program.
First: M. Hintz, Second: S. DeVoux → U
Motion to accept the 2019-2020 Board of Education Meeting Dates and Committee Meeting Dates
First: N. Mocarski, Second: S. DeVoux → U

New Business
Motion to correct the Index page that states “1st Read” for Policies #5114, #4000.1, and #9327.0 (1st Read), to state, “2nd Read” for each of the policies
First: N. Mocarski, Second: S. DeVoux → U

Discussion:
The BOE cannot change the language for Policy #5114 and Policy #4000.1 per state law.
Can change the language for Policy #9327.1
Motion to accept Policies #5114, #4000.1, and #9327.1
First: R. Dutton, Second: N. Mocarski → U

Adjourn
Motion to adjourn at 7:44 pm.
First: M. Hintz, Second: S. DeVoux → U

WINCHESTER BOARD OF EDUCATION
Type of Meeting:  REGULAR BOARD OF EDUCATION MEETING - MINUTES
Date:  TUESDAY, JANUARY 8, 2019
Location:  P. FRANCIS HICKS ROOM, 2ND FLOOR, TOWN HALL – 7:00 P.M.

Board of Education (BOE) Members (in alphabetical order by last name): Shana DeVoux, Dr. Richard Dutton, Cheryl Heffernan, Michelle Hintz, Nora Mocarski, Secretary; Kristin Peterson, Doug Pfenninger, Chairman; Alexandria Propfe, Christine Royer

Called to order at 7:00 pm.

1. Call to Order - 7 pm
2. Roll Call - Present: K. Peterson, M. Hintz, D. Pfenninger, N. Mocarski, R. Dutton, C. Heffernan, A. Propfe, S. Cullinan, Director of Student Service, M. Brady-Shanley, Superintendent., N. O’Dea-Wyrick, Director of Finance & Business Services, Barbara Silverio, Principal, Pearson School, Rosanne Field, Batcheller Principal

Excused: C. Royer
Unexcused: S. DeVoux

3. Agenda Review Discussion Possible Action
   1. Regular Board of Education Agenda: January 8, 2019
4. Comments from the Chairman
   1. Reminder to send agenda items at least one week before BOE meetings the Board Chair
   2. Superintendent evaluation scheduled for Thursday, January 10, 2019 - at 10 am
5. Presentations
   1. Quarterly financial report [BOE page 6] - Appropriated budget current year. A modest positive balance of $16,496 as of this report
      1. Special Ed out of district cost (-289,185) - We received an increase of approximately 5 students to the district. We are working with shared services to continue working on bringing Special Education students back into our programs to save monies.
      2. Page 7 - already used a ⅓ of the snow budget because of much use of salt and sand on Batcheller School.
      3. Page 8 - $90,206 projected balance. Using a conservative balance. We can carry over up to 15% because we don’t know what will happen with grant allocation next year. We also do not know the future of district grants.
      4. Page 9 – National School Lunch - Net income $18,374.
         a)      Some bills have not been paid yet because we are waiting for funds from the state.
         b)      Food Service funds will arrive regardless of the government shutdown.
6. 1. 5. Page 3 - Overview of projects completed.
      6. Page 10 - Budget calendar shared.
      7. Page 11 - Budget Assumptions - Anticipating 1.8 million reductions to 2019-2020 budget because of an anticipated decrease in grant funding from the State of Connecticut. And can only carry over only 15%. We may not be an Alliance District next year.
         a)      Turn Around Office: Alliance DAS = for building structures. We are assigned into this.
         b)      Turn Around Office: Alliance SDE = for education, instruction remediation. We are assigned into this.
         c)      Turn Around Office: Commissioners Network = we must apply to be in this. Works hand in hand with Alliance, but don’t need to be in both.
         d)      We won’t know about the Alliance or Commissioner Network monies until May or June.
         e)      Too early to speak about what to ask of the taxpayer at this time.
         f)       Town Support for Education: unknown at this time.
7. 1. 8. Page 13 - Enrollment projections discussed. Numbers on page 13  
   2. Budget timeline discussed
   3. Projected enrollments discussed
8. Public Hearing
9. Consent Agenda Items
   1. MOTION: First: Dr. Dutton, Second: C. Heffernan → U
10. Correspondence to the Board
    1. Superintendent Brady-Shanley read Mrs. Mary DiMauro’s retirement letter - effective on the last day of school in June of 2019.
11. Superintendents’ Reports & Action Items
    1. Page 21 was read
    2. Page 22 student enrollment read
    3. Page 23 chronic absenteeism numbers are lower in both schools (good)
    4. Page 24 The Gilbert School enrollment: Reporting 515
12. Board Action Items
    1. None
13. New Business Discussion and Possible Action
14. Executive Session
    1. MOTION: M. Hintz motion at 7:55 pm to go into executive session inviting Superintendent Melony Brady-Shanley and Nancy O’Dea-Wyrick to discuss contract process update regarding WPS/Gilbert Tuition Agreement.
       1. Second: C. Heffernan →  U
    2. MOTION: C. Heffernan to come out of executive session at 9:20 pm
       1. Second: M. Hintz →  U
15. Adjourn  
    1. MOTION: A. Propfe to adjourn at 9:21 pm
       1. Second: C. Heffernan → U 

WINCHESTER BOARD OF EDUCATION
Type of Meeting:  REGULAR BOARD OF EDUCATION MEETING - MINUTES
Date:  TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 2019
Location:  P. FRANCIS HICKS ROOM, 2ND FLOOR, TOWN HALL – 7:00 P.M.

Board of Education (BOE) Members (in alphabetical order by last name): Shana DeVoux, Dr. Richard Dutton, Cheryl Heffernan, Michelle Hintz, Nora Mocarski, Secretary; Kristin Peterson, Doug Pfenninger, Chairman; Alexandria Propfe, Christine Royer

Called to order at 7:00 pm.

1. Call to Order - 7 pm
2. PLEDGE
3. Roll Call - Present: S. DeVoux, K. Peterson, M. Hintz, D. Pfenninger, N. Mocarski, R. Dutton, C. Heffernan, S. Cullinan, Director of Student Service, M. Brady-Shanley, Superintendent., N. O’Dea-Wyrick, Director of Finance & Business Services, Pearson School, Rosanne Field, Batcheller School Principal
   1. Excused: C. Royer, A. Propfe, Barbara Silverio, Principal
   2. Unexcused: None.
4. AGENDA REVIEW
   1. MOTION: To add “Next Generation Accountability” (ESSA) to “VI. PRESENTATIONS” as Item C, before the “Initial Budget Presentation, 2019-2020 ” First: M. Hintz, Second: C. Heffernan → U.
5. COMMENTS FROM THE CHAIRMAN
   1. Update on Hinsdale School Renovation Committee by M. Hintz
      1. Blueprints were discussed that incorporated plans for an additional 7,000 sq ft. added to the original plan. This additional square footage was made possible because the district provided an 8-year student enrollment look-back per State of CT requirement, instead of the 5-year look-back that was initially used.
      2. Next meeting will be in two weeks. The Building Committee will get updated floor plans that will reflect this 7,000 sq ft. increase. Costs will remain the same. Note that the State will not reimburse at 70% of those items it considers as maintenance. Maintenance examples include the floors and paint on the walls. However, things such as a parking lot and playground will be reimbursed at 70% as these items are not “maintenance." The building addition will be reimbursed at 70%.
   2. WBOE/Gilbert Negotiation Presentation
      1. The Winchester Board of Education Negotiation Team expressed a desire to meet with The Gilbert School to continue negotiations over a contract moving forward. However, the Negotiation Team has not met for the last four weeks to date. The February 5, 2019 meeting was canceled due to weather and has not been rescheduled. While Gilbert held their budget presentation for the public, this was not a negotiation meeting between the two parties. The Gilbert Negotiating Chair has been away. The Winchester Board of Education Negotiating Team expressed concern about the lack of meetings.
      2. The parties are far apart at this time. Gilbert is asking for 7.13 million, or over $600,000 more than last year. It would be a 10.15% increase which is a 17.7% per pupil increase.
      3. The Town Manager is looking for a 0% increase in budget.
      4. Our Winchester Board of Education budget is due to the Town before March 15, 2019. The Winchester Board of Education Negotiating Team expressed concern that The Gilbert tuition amount to be charged to the Winchester Board of Education has not been settled at this time.
6. PRESENTATIONS
   1. Literacy Leadership Institute Final Plan
      1. Principal Fields presented. Teams from Batcheller and Pearson attended six, half-day sessions during the school year at no cost to the district. Areas examined included, student success in literacy, leadership, professional development, student assessment, and family engagement. Goals were developed and measured with pre and post survey results.

a)      Challenges were presented from a literacy survey and goals were created to meet

(1)   For example topics such as “scheduling challenges” and “, small group instruction” were identified. From this, additional student intervention time and SRBI sessions were made possible.

b)      Winchester faculty had the opportunity to work with other state districts in this program.

6. 2. 1st Year Employee Report
      1. In February, interviews were conducted with new employees and the survey results shared.
      2. In March, the findings of the faculty survey required by the Commissioners Network will be shared with the Board. The parent survey findings will also be shared.
   3. ESSA - Every Student Succeeds Act - 3-year trend data shared [Handout]
      1. We are now at a Category 2 and very proud as we were in Category 4 while in Receivership (lowest Category 5).
      2. Our Goal is to get to Category 1, representative of the top performing schools in the State
      3. We have been recognized as a district of “Distinction” given the improvements made in the ESSA scores, particularly in the 2017-2018 school year.
      4. The concern is that we may be losing Commissioner’s Network funding as our district performs well and moves out of the status as a “district of concern.”
      5. Superintendent Brady-Shanley commended all faculty and staff members for their hard work and efforts and reiterated that every community member plays a critical role to ensure all students are successful.
      6. Question: What other districts are in Category 2?

a)      Answer: Superintendent Brady-Shanley will get that information for the next Board meeting.

6. 4. Initial Budget Presentation, 2019-2020 [Handout]
      1. Winchester accomplishments shared
      2. Winchester educational initiatives shared
      3. Anticipating a total grant loss of $1,894,721, or -7.9%.
      4. This means a reduction of 12.95 FTE in the Winchester Public Schools as proposed, to ensure a 0% increase.
      5. The Gilbert contract is unresolved at this time.
      6. Winchester’s current 2018-2019 budget for Gilbert is $6,475,000 for 485 students, or $13,350 per pupil cost.
      7. Winchester is proposing $6,457,000 for Gilbert for 2019-2020, or $14,262 per pupil cost. With a projected decrease in student enrollment of 31 students at Gilbert from 485 to 454, this represents an increase of 6.8% or $912 per student increase to Gilbert.
      8. Gilbert is seeking a $7,132,000 budget allowance, or a 10.15%, or $657,000 increase, resulting in a charge of $15,709 per student, or a 17.7% increase.
7. PUBLIC HEARING
   1. Five minutes -
      1. Representative Jay Case - West Wakefield Blvd, Winsted, CT

          a)      Comments concerning Friday’s Hearing in Hartford concerning the proposed school consolidations for districts with 2000 pupils or fewer, or populations of 40,000 or fewer.
b)      Representative Case will serve on the Appropriation Education Committee
c)      The ECS Grant is unknown at this time. Perhaps $2000 less in Governor’s budget
d)      State aid may drop even further.

8. CONSENT AGENDA ITEMS
   1. MOTION to approve Consent Agenda Items: M. Hintz, Second: C. Heffernan → U.
9. CORRESPONDENCE TO THE BOARD
   1. None
10. SUPERINTENDENT’S REPORTS AND ACTION ITEMS
    1. Superintendent Brady-Shanley read the monthly report to the BOE [pages 17-18]
    2. School enrollment read [page 19]
    3. Chronic absences read [page 20]
    4. Gilbert Enrollment [page 21]
11. BOARD ACTION ITEMS
    1. Approval of Donation from the Valley Thrift Shop for the Summer Lunch Program
       1. Letter read into the record by O’Dea-Wyrick - almost $1450.
          a)      MOTION to accept a donation from the Valley Thrift Shop: S. DeVoux, Second: R. Dutton → U.
12. NEW BUSINESS DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION
    1. CLARIFICATION: This is the second read on policies, not first as stated on the BOE Agenda. (This was amended on 3/12/19 BOE meeting to read "FIRST READ" here on 2/26/19.)
    2. 1. 5141.3
       2. 5141.4
       3. 5144.1
       4. 5144.4
          a)      MOTION to adopt policies above - First: N. Mocarski, Second: C. Heffernan → U.
13. ADJOURN
    1. MOTION to adjourn at 9:16 pm - First: M. Hintz, Second: R. Dutton, → U

WINCHESTER BOARD OF EDUCATION
Type of Meeting:  REGULAR BOARD OF EDUCATION MEETING - MINUTES
Date:  TUESDAY, MARCH 12, 2019
Location:  P. FRANCIS HICKS ROOM, 2ND FLOOR, TOWN HALL – 7:00 P.M.

Board of Education (BOE) Members (in alphabetical order by last name): Shana DeVoux, Dr. Richard Dutton, Cheryl Heffernan, Michelle Hintz, Nora Mocarski, Secretary; Kristin Peterson, Doug Pfenninger, Chairman; Alexandria Propfe, Christine Royer

1. CALL TO ORDER @ 7 pm
2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
3. ROLL CALL - Present: S. DeVoux, K. Peterson, A. Propfe, M. Hintz, D. Pfenninger, N. Mocarski, R. Dutton, C. Heffernan, S. Cullinan, Director of Student Service, M. Brady-Shanley, Superintendent., N. O’Dea-Wyrick, Director of Finance & Business Services, Pearson School, Barbara Silverio, Principal, Rosanne Field, Batcheller School Principal
   1. Excused: C. Royer,
   2. Unexcused: None.
4. STUDENT PRESENTATION
   1. Students from the Pearson Drama Club and Show Choir sang three songs from the production of “Alice in Wonderland” for a Board of Education appreciation presentation. These students were directed by teacher Jacqueline Petriello and Theresa Padin.
5. AGENDA REVIEW
   1. MOTION
      1. to move “Public Hearing” before “Comments from the Chairman.”
      2. to strike from the agenda, “Bridges Math Presentation” under “Presentation.”
      3. to strike from the agenda, “Approval of Donation to the Critical Needs Fun from St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church, Kent” under “Board Action Items.”
      4. to add “Assistant” to “Approval of Custodial and Executive & Administrative Contracts.”

a)      FIRST: C. Heffernan, SECOND: M. Hintz, → U.

6. PUBLIC HEARING
   1. Presentation by Dr. Jeffrey Kitching, Ed.D., Executive Director of EdAdvance on services [Handout]
   2. EdAdvance would welcome a WBOE member to serve on their Executive Board.
7. COMMENTS FROM THE CHAIRMAN
   1. None.
8. PRESENTATIONS
   1. Batcheller & Pearson Mid-Year Audits - Principal Barb Silverio and Principal Roseanne Field
9. CONSENT AGENDA ITEMS
   1. MOTION
      1. To change the “Minutes of Special BOE Meeting” from February 26, 2019, to read, “FIRST READ” of the following policies and thus, nullify the motion in the Agenda of February 26, 2019, that accepted these policies:

a)      5141.3 - Students Health & Immunization

b)      5141.4 - Reporting Child Abuse, Neglect, and Sexual Assault

c)      5144.1 - Use of Physical Force

d)      5144.4 - Discipline

(1)   FIRST: M. Hintz, SECOND: C. Heffernan → U.

9. 2. MOTION to approve the Consent Agenda as amended.
      1. FIRST: C. Heffernan. SECOND: Dr. Dutton → U.
10. CORRESPONDENCE TO THE BOARD
    1. None.
11. SUPERINTENDENTS’ REPORTS & ACTION ITEMS
    1. Superintendent’s Report was delivered [PAGE 8]
    2. School Enrollment was delivered [PAGE 9]
    3. Chronic Absences were reported out [PAGE 10]. Pre-K is not included in this report because Pre-K is not mandatory per the State of Connecticut. Reporting is only K through 12.
    4. Gilbert Enrollment presented as reported by Gilbert [PAGE 11]
12. BOARD ACTION ITEMS
    1. 2019-2020 Budget [HANDOUT of Presentation]
       1. Presenting a 0% increase and we are asking for $330,000 for town support for education.
       2. Notification of any possible funds from the Commissioner’s Network would be received by mail. It is the “E-Grants System” that delivers the money. Superintendent Brady-Shanley stated that we could not count on any monies until we see monies in the E-Grant System. Notification may not be until June. Variables that might impact whether Network monies will be received include a new Commissioner of Education. Superintendent Brady-Shanley stated that it would be irresponsible for our district to presume monies are coming from the Commissioner’s Network when we do not have any guarantee that monies arrive at all.
       3. Grant monies that are received must be spent on very specific items per grant agreements. Grants get written each year.
       4. MOTION to adopt the 2019-2020 budget as presented for the Board of Selection.

(1)   FIRST Dr. Dutton, SECOND M. Hintz. → U.

b)      DISCUSSION before the vote:

(1)   Concern was expressed about the awkward timing of the negotiation process with Gilbert: How can it be that Gilbert approves their budget without first settling on the tuition amount with the Winchester Board of Education?

(2)   The Winchester Board is working on the assumption that the Selectmen and Town Manager will not accept any more than a zero percent.

(3)   Down the road, this negotiation process with Gilbert has to be fixed. With any other vendor, there would be a process. Here it appears that we are held, hostage. There has to be an end-date for negotiations.

(4)   It does not seem fair that a “Joint Finance Committee” between the Gilbert Trust and the Winchester Board of Education is to be formed to help, as it appears to the Winchester School System, to cut its budget

(5)   We have been asking for meetings. We have done our part.

(6)   The current contract does have a mediation process in the language.

(7)   The Gilbert Board has approved a $657,000 (17% increase). The concern is that this increase will come out of the WBOE side.

12. 2. Approval of Custodial and Executive & Administrative Assistant Contracts.
       1. Custodial Contract as presented.

a)      MOTION to approve: FIRST: Michelle, SECOND: Dr. Dutton. → U

12. 2. 2. Administrative Assistant Contract.

a)      MOTION to approve: FIRST: C. Heffernan, SECOND: K. Peterson → U

13. NEW BUSINESS DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION
    1. Second Read
       1. Policy #5141.3

a)      For the record: Concern was shared by the Board Chair that exemptions allowed by families in this policy may also put the rest of the population at risk. This has shown to be problematic in districts in some states.

13. 1. 2. Policy #5141.4
       3. Policy #5144.1
       4. Policy #5144.4

a)      MOTION to accept and adopt all four policies as presented.

(1)   First: C. Heffernan, Second: S. DeVoux → U

13. 2. First Read - the following policies will move to April for a second read:
       1. Policy #6142.101 - Student Nutrition & Physical Activity. Necessary to adopt to receive federal aid. There were parts of this policy to pick from. So we selected an allowance for organizations outside the school day, for example, such as the PTO to sell pies during the Drama Production intermission.
       2. Policy #6200 - Adult Continuing Education.
14. MOTION TO ADJOURN
    1. MOTION to adjourn at 9:06 pm
       1. FIRST: M. Hintz, SECOND: A. Propfe → U

Winchester Board of Education
Type of Meeting: Regular BOE Meeting MINUTES
Location:  Town Hall – Hicks Room
Date: April 9, 2019 @ 7:00 p.m.

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

Call to order @ 7:00 am

Pledge of Allegiance

Roll call

Present:

Winchester Board of Education:       

S. DeVaux (@7:22 pm), R. Dutton, C. Heffernan, M. Hintz, N. Mocarski, K. Peterson, D. Pfenninger, A. Propfe, C. Royer

            District/Central Office Staff:

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

Agenda Review Discussion Possible Action:

a)  Regular Board of Education Agenda:  April 9, 2019     

MOTION to add to the agenda a letter regarding Substitute Bill # 874 (SB #874) “Testimony in Support of Section 6 of Proposed Substitute Bill No. 874 An Act Concerning Education Initiatives and Services in Connecticut by Melony Brady-Shanley, Superintendent of Winchester Public Schools”

            FIRST: C. Royer, SECOND: M. Hintz → U.

MOTION to add to the agenda discussion of possible “Contribution of increase line item to Gilbert tuition” after the “Executive Session.”

            FIRST: C. Heffernan, SECOND: M. Hintz → U.

Comments from the Chairman

a)  250 years Winchester, 50 years Earth Day

The Board Chair hoped that the curriculum would recognize the occasion of 250 years of Winchester in some small way.

Principals Silverio and Field described plans to recognize “Earth Day” with analysis of protecting the species, particularly honeybees. 

The Board recognized those adults and students who did a tremendous job at producing a very successful “Alice and Wonderland” this past month

            Hinsdale Renovation architects were very informative at the first meeting at Pearson

            Next Hinsdale Workshop scheduled Thursday, April 11 at 7 pm @ Pearson

Presentations:

a)  3rd Quarter Financial Report

N. O’Dea-Wyrick presented [Handout] - We are $37,117 “in the black” at the end of the 3rd quarter due to in-house savings realized from faculty hires and Medicaid reimbursements.

Object #560 Special Education Out of District Tuition line item is over by $286,596 due to Special Education students moving into the district. To be remedied by a request to move line items #340 and #512 to Object #560 if approved.

Discussion of the rationale for moving Object #011 to #430 included need to complete internal painting Pearson and discussion of the rationale for moving Object #200 included need to purchase collaborate furniture to support instructional strategies. 

MOTION to transfer Line item # 340 $150,000 of “Special Ed Contracted Services” to 560 “Special Ed Out of District Tuition” and item #512 $100,000 “Special Ed EX cost Out of District Transportation” to #560 “Special Ed Out of District Tuition” and item # 011 $75,000 “Wages” to #430 “Maintenance & Repairs Pearson” and #200 $50,000 “Benefits” to #738 “Collaborative classroom furniture”

            FIRST: M. Hintz, SECOND: N. Mocarski → U.

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 – March 12, 2019
b)  Minutes of Special Meeting – March 21, 2019
c)  Minutes of Policy Meeting – March 26, 2019
d)  Minutes of Curriculum Meeting – March 26, 2019
e)  Minutes of Special Meeting – April 3, 2019

MOTION to amend the “Policy Committee Minutes” to include “R. Dutton” to the “Invitees” listed above.

            FIRST: M. Hintz, SECOND: K. Peterson. → U.

MOTION to approve all the minutes, items a) through e), with the amended change made in the first motion that included “R. Dutton” to the Invitee list in the “Policy Committee Meeting Minutes” [Page 9]

FIRST: C. Royer, SECOND: R. Dutton → U.

Correspondence to the Board:

a)  State of CT waiver request letter [pages 15-19]

The State of Connecticut, again for the fourth time, waived the repayment of $144,173 that would have been due April 30, 2019. There is one more repayment that remains due as required under Section 304(a) of Public Act 15-5 as discussed on page 16 of the BOE packet.

b)  2019 Connecticut 4-H Leadership Award – R. Manzer [page 20]

c)  Report on Hinsdale Renovation Public Session

Superintendent Brady-Shanley will work with Nancy O’Dea-Wyrick to videotape the next Hinsdale workshop that will take place on Thursday, April 11 at 7 pm @ Pearson. This will be made available for the community.

Superintendent’s Reports & Action Items Discussion Possible Action:

a)  Superintendent’s Report was read [pp. 21-22]

Grade 6 to 7 transition plans for students are underway.

            Pearson playground has been busy on the weekends.

            Five families attended the Internet Safety Presentation at Pearson School

            We expect 46 students for the P-K program. We have room for 46.

b)  School Enrollment

            +1 student as of April 1. [page 23]

c)  Chronic Absences

            Attendance is returning to normal levels. 6.9% for district [page 24]

d)  Gilbert Enrollment

As of 466 students + 48 international +3 Other District = 517 total enrollment. [page 25]

We are close to that number of 24 students where the 5% rule comes into play with enrollment.

e)  New Hire

Brenna Bourke will be the new Special Education teacher. This is a replacement hire. Brenna Bourke will be working at the Gilbert School [page 26-27]

Board Action Items:

a)  Approval to submit the School Readiness Grant

            Presented in the amount of $275,764.00 [p. 28-42]

b)  Approval of School Readiness Agreement

            MOTION to approve of the School Readiness FY19 Community Proposal

FIRST: C. Royer, SECOND: Michelle Hintz → U

c)  Approval of Healthy Food Certification

            Presented and discussion of possible approval of the Healthy Food Certification [page 43]

MOTION to approve “A” as written on page 43 in “Healthy Food & Beverage Certifications 2019-2020 Winchester Board of Education”

                        FIRST: C. Heffernan, SECOND: K. Peterson → U.

MOTION to approve “B” as written on page 43 in “Healthy Food & Beverage Certifications, 2019-2020 Winchester Board of Education”

                        FIRST:  M. Hintz, SECOND: N. Mocarski → U.

MOTION to approve “C” as written on page 44 in “Healthy Food & Beverage Certifications, 2019-2020 Winchester Board of Education”

                        FIRST: S. DeVaux SECOND: A. Propfe → U.                    

d)  Approval of non-renewals as it relates to the reduction in force.

            Discussion of reduction in force of 12.95 in FTEs due to budgetary constraints.

MOTION: Approval of non-renewal letters as presented on pages 46-53 of the Winchester Board of Education Packet.

                        FIRST: C. Royer, SECOND: C. Heffernan → U.

e) NEW ACTION ITEM

Letter read aloud on Substitute Bill # 874 (SB #874) “Testimony in Support of Section 6 of Proposed Substitute Bill No. 874 An Act Concerning Education Initiatives and Services in Connecticut by Melony Brady-Shanley, Superintendent of Winchester Public Schools.”

MOTION to support submission of the letter on Substitute Bill # 874 (SB #874) “Testimony in Support of Section 6 of Proposed Substitute Bill No. 874 An Act Concerning Education Initiatives and Services in Connecticut by Melony Brady-Shanley, Superintendent of Winchester Public Schools” for Section 6 of Proposed Substitute Bill No. 874”

                        FIRST: R. Dutton, SECOND: C. Heffernan → U.

Unfinished Business:

            None.

New Business Discussion and Possible Action:

a)  Policy #6142.101 – Student Nutrition & Physical Activity – 2nd Read

            MOTION to adopt: FIRST: N. Mocarski, SECOND: C. Heffernan → U

b)  Policy #6200 – Adult Continuing Education – 2nd Read

            MOTION to adopt: FIRST: C. Royer, SECOND: C. Heffernan → U

c)  Policy # 6114.1 – Fire Emergency Drills/Crisis Response Drills – 1st Read

            We are already operating under this policy as is.

d)  Policy # 6159 – Individualized Education Program / Special Education – 1st Read

            This policy is a more general policy as per CABE and our attorney’s advice

e)  Policy # 6172.12 – Magnet Schools – 1st Read

Executive Session:

a)  Update on Gilbert Corporation / Winchester Public Schools Negotiations

MOTION to go into Executive Session and to invite Melony Brady-Shanley, 8:38 pm for the purposes of discussing the update on Gilbert Corporation / Winchester Public Schools Negotiations of discussing Gilbert.

                                    FIRST: C. Royer, SECOND: M Hintz → U                     

                        MOTION to come out of Executive Session at 9:25 pm

                                    FIRST: C. Heffernan, SECOND: A. Propfe → U.

MOTION to not accept the proposed financial resolution, which was not recommended by the Winchester Board of Education’s Finance Committee, to increase the Gilbert line to $450,000 financed by a line item transfer of $150,000 from the Winchester Public Schools and $150,000 from the Town Budget and $150,000 tax increase to the taxpayer and Gilbert would reduce their proposed budget to the Winchester Public Schools by $150,000 and the Gilbert Trust would increase their funding to the Gilbert Corporation by $57,000 as discussed in the Joint Finance Committee.

            FIRST: C. Heffernan, SECOND: C. Royer → U.

MOTION to direct Superintendent Melony Brady-Shanley to increase The Gilbert School line item by $300,000 as funded by, $100,000 from the 1% Non-Lapsing Fund, pending permission from the Winsted Board of Selectmen, and as funded by $50,000, pending a line item transfer within the Winchester Board of Education budget, and as funded by an increase to the Winchester Board of Education budget of $150,000 for FY 2020.

            FIRST: C. Heffernan, SECOND: R. Dutton.

                        In favor:          6

                        Opposed:       3

                                    Motion carries.   

Adjourn

                        MOTION to adjourn at 9:28 pm

                                    FIRST: M. Hintz, SECOND: C. Heffernan → U.

Winchester Board of Education

Type of Meeting: Regular BOE Meeting MINUTES

Location:  Town Hall – Hicks Room

Date: May 14, 2019 @ 7:00 p.m.

Meeting Facilitator:     Melony Brady-Shanley, Superintendent

                                    Doug Pfenninger, BOE Chairman

Call to order @ 7:04pm

Pledge of Allegiance

Roll call

Winchester Board of Education:       

R. Dutton, C. Heffernan, M. Hintz, N. Mocarski, K. Peterson, D. Pfenninger, A. Propfe, C. Royer

Absent (unexcused): S. DeVaux

            District/Central Office Staff:

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

 

Agenda Review Discussion Possible Action:

a)  Regular Board of Education Agenda:  May 14, 2019

MOTION: To change under “Presentations” to move Gilbert Presentation on Assessment Results” ahead of “Science Walkthroughs”

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

MOTION to include under “Correspondence to the Board” a letter celebrating Nancy O’Dea-Wyrick’s Award and to add under “Action Items” discussion and possible permission for an out-of-state field trip.

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

 

Comments from the Chairman

            None

 

Student Acknowledgements:

a)  Purpose Topic of Reading

Winchester Teacher Susan Goodenough, Reading Specialist/TAG Reading Program announced the two Winchester students who received recognition for their writing. The awardees read their work aloud to the BOE.

 

Presentations:

a)  Science Walkthroughs

Rachel Manzer presented “Science Walkthroughs” packet. Of note, email from P. McLaren was read aloud recognizing the vision and leadership of Melony Brady-Shanley and Rachel Manzer as well as the teachers and administrators for their work in moving the district forward in Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS).

            Lessons were shared.

b)  Gilbert Presentation on Assessment Results

            BOE Packet 3-22 was presented and Q & A was conducted.

 

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 – April 9, 2019

b)  Minutes of Special Meeting – April 29, 2019

c)  Minutes of Policy Meeting – April 30, 2019

d)  Minutes of Curriculum Meeting – April 30, 2019

e)  Minutes of Finance Meeting – April 30, 2019

 

MOTION: to approve minutes of only a, c, d, and e above.

                        First: C. Royer Second: C. Heffernan  → U

 

MOTION to table approval of the “Special Meeting” minutes (Item b above) until the June Winchester BOE meeting after discussion and clarification from the Recorder, Steve Sedlack. 

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

 

Correspondence to the Board:

a)  All-Star Transportation Letter

            All-Star has been bought out by Student Transportation of America.

We are currently in the middle of a long-term 5-year contract. We have a set increase in the contract. We should not see any different charges.

 

Nancy O’Dea-Wyrick will be recognized at the end of the month at Mystic for her award Celebrating her work with transparency, communication with the BOE on our BOE budget.

 

Superintendent’s Reports & Action Items Discussion Possible Action:

a)  Superintendent’s Report

Packet pages 37-38 were read aloud by Superintendent Brady-Shanley

b)  School Enrollment

            Shared.

c)  Chronic Absences

We are currently under 5% overall as a district. Concerted efforts to improve student attendance include, but not limited to, parent meetings, home visits, documentation. Pearson at 3.5% chronic absenteeism. Kudos to Pearson.

d)  Gilbert Enrollment

            466 students at Gilbert

e)  New Hire

            Tina Cruden is to be hired as a full-time paraprofessional. This is not a new position.

f)  RFP for Pearson - Nancy O'Dea-Wyrick

Two RFPs related to Pearson. The first is to replace two sets of doors and add handicap access to one of them. Financed by carry-over security grant monies with cameras and buzzers. The second RFP is to replace student bathroom sinks as all one piece. Funded by either the appropriated budget if monies are left or by bond funding request.

           

Board Action Items:

a)  Anticipated Community Eligibility Provision Monthly Federal Reimbursement for School Lunch Program

Not an action item, but for discussion: To be brought back to us as a Board that we will apply for full free breakfast and lunch regardless of income for all grades, Pre-K through 6. Still projected to be in the black. SNAP program will be fiscally responsible for us and will be a benefit for our families. Anticipated to be a big saving for families so we will be applying.

b)  2019-2020 School Calendar Revised

Superintendent Brady-Shanley asks the WBOE to change the school calendar to have no school on April 28, 2020, to allow for the Presidential Primary to be held at Pearson. We need to revise the Winchester calendar to add a day to the calendar at the end of the year.

MOTION to change the 2019-2020 school calendar to give faculty, students, and staff the day off on April 28, 2020, because of the Presidential Primary and to extend the school year by one day.

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

c)  Approval of Sponsorship from Brown & Brown Insurance of $1000.00

MOTION to accept with thanks the donation from Brown and Brown

                        C. Royer, Second: K. Peterson → U

d)  Approval of Donation to the Critical needs fund from St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church, Kent

MOTION to accept the donation from the Critical Needs fund from St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church.

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

e)  Out-of-state field trip approval

Monies to be paid for by either Commissioner’s Network, or by any surplus, we may have at the end of the school year. This field trip is in conjunction with NWCC.

MOTION to allow approximately 10 students to go overnight to Virginia to fly their “Cubes in Space - Rocketfest Trip” from June 17th and returning on June 20th with the stipulation that Superintendent Brady-Shanley to look at including a male chaperone and will double-check our district insurance about liability coverage for the district drivers.

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

 

Unfinished Business:

            None.

           

New Business Discussion and Possible Action:

a)  Policy # 6114.1 – Fire Emergency Drills/Crisis Response Drills – 2nd Read

 MOTION to accept policy #6114.1 as presented.

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

b)  Policy # 6159 – Individualized Education Program / Special Education – 2nd Read

 MOTION to accept policy #6159 as presented.

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

c)  Policy # 6172.12 – Magnet Schools – 2nd Read

 MOTION to accept all policy #6172.12(a) presented.

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

 

 Adjourn

MOTION to adjourn @ 9:30pm. M. Hintz, Second: C. Heffernan → U.

Superintendent Brady-Shanley spoke to the board regarding letter all BOE members received from a custodian. She commented that she has spoken with the Department of Labor and Union Representatives regarding a response.

Superintendent’s Report—see pages 25-34

New Business

  Discussion only Gilbert School Negotiations—already discussed

New Business

1. 1. Board Retreat Date of July 22, 2019 set
   2. First Read Policy # 6141.327(a) Electronic Resources—no action is taken

Motion to adjourn at 9:08 pm made by Michelle Hintz seconded by Alexandria Propfe unanimously approved

 

Respectfully submitted,

Christine Royer

WINCHESTER BOARD OF EDUCATION
Type of Meeting:  SPECIAL BOARD OF EDUCATION MEETING – MINUTES
Date:  TUESDAY, OCTOBER 23, 2018
Location:  CONFERENCE ROOM, 3RD FLOOR, TOWN HALL – 7:00 P.M.

Board of Education (BOE) Members (in alphabetical order by last name): Shana DeVoux, Dr. Richard Dutton, Cheryl Heffernan, Michelle Hintz, Nora Mocarski, Secretary; Doug Pfenninger, Chairman; Alexandria Propfe, Christine Royer

Call to Order

Meeting called to order @ 7:10pm

Pledge

Roll call:

Dr. Richard Dutton, Christine Royer, Cheryl Heffernan, Michelle Hintz, Nora Mocarski, Secretary, Doug Pfenninger, Chairman.

Absent:

Excused: Alexandria Propfe

Unexcused: Shana DeVoux

Interviews for vacant Board of Education position

                Candidate #1 - Dale Denning

                                Interview held in public session

                Candidate #2 - Kristin Peterson

                                Interview held in public session

Executive Session

MOTION to enter into Executive Session to discuss candidates for the Winchester Board of Education vacant position at 7:35 pm:

1st Cheryl Heffernan, Second: Michelle Hintz → Unanimous, 6-0

MOTION to exit Executive Session at 8:06 pm:

                1st Nora Mocarski, Second: Michelle Hintz → Unanimous, 6-0

Appointment

MOTION to appoint Kristin Peterson to serve as the Winchester Board of Education member to fill the vacant position:

                1st Dr. Richard Dutton, Second: Cheryl Heffernan → Unanimous, 6-0

Adjourn

                MOTION to Adjourn at 8:07 pm

                                1st Michelle Hintz, 2nd Dr. Richard Dutton → Unanimous, 6-0

W. L. Gilbert School Corporation – Ad Hoc Negotiations Team and
Winchester Board of Education –Ad Hoc Negotiations Team – Joint Minutes
Date:  October 22, 2018

1.       Roll Call – Meeting called to order at 6:03 PM in the Guidance Conference Room at The Gilbert School.

Present: Charles Seaback, Holly Cassaday and Steven Sedlack, School Corp Members and Dr. Anthony Serio, Superintendent of the School representing the Gilbert Team

Present: Doug Pfenninger, Cheryl Heffernan, Winchester Board of Education Members and Melony Brady-Shanley, Superintendent of Schools representing the WBOE Team.

2.       Discussion regarding negotiations of the successor contract between the W.L. Gilbert School Corporation and the Winchester Board of Education.

It was agreed that negotiations would not require formal ground rules.

The teams discussed the important need for joint marketing of the budget to the town.

The teams agreed to consider using the July 1, 2011-June 30, 2014 contract as the benchmark for discussion. A wide-ranging discussion included exploration of positions on sole designation, duration, the composition of the Gilbert board of directors, establishing tuition, resolving budget issues and future student enrollment.

3.       Next Meeting – will be held on Wednesday, October 24 at 3:00 in the third-floor conference in the town hall.

Agenda for that meeting will include data on class sizes at Gilbert, the 2018-19 budget for Gilbert, by-laws on Gilbert board of directors and a re-iteration of the contract on the part of the Gilbert team.

4.       Adjournment – a motion to adjourn (Sedlack/Cassady was made at 8:05 PM and was unanimously accepted.

Respectfully submitted for the teams,

Steven Sedlack

W. L. Gilbert School Corporation
Ad Hoc Negotiations Team and
Winchester Board of Education
Ad Hoc Negotiations Team – Joint Minutes
Date:  October 24, 2018

1.       Roll Call – Meeting called to order at 3:00 PM in the 3rd Floor Conference Room, Town Hall, 338 Main Street, Winsted, CT.

Present: Charles Seaback, Holly Cassaday and Steven Sedlack, School Corp Members and Dr. Anthony Serio, Superintendent of the School representing the Gilbert Team

Present: Doug Pfenninger, Cheryl Heffernan, Winchester Board of Education Members and Melony Brady-Shanley, Superintendent of Schools representing the WBOE Team.

2.       Approval of Minutes – on a motion from S. Sedlack with a second from H. Cassaday the minutes of the October 22, 2018 negotiations meeting were unanimously approved.

3.       Discussion regarding negotiations of the successor contract between the W.L. Gilbert School Corp. and the Winchester Board of Education.

Information on class sizes and the Gilbert budget had been distributed to all members before this meeting.  Information from the Gilbert by-laws regarding Directors was presented.

The 2011-2014 contract was then reviewed in its entirety with C. Seaback suggesting changes to various sections from the perspective of the Gilbert team and with the response from Winchester.  Many of the suggestions received general agreement.

A review of Section 4, Procedures for Establishing Tuition, received considerable discussion.  Supt. Brady-Shanley presented ideas for a hybrid plan for budget adoption.  Other topics covered include: setting budget timelines, streamlining the Joint Budget Committee, quarterly meetings of the joint boards and the concept of arbitration.  These items remain on the table for future deliberations.

4. Next Meetings – will be held on Thursday, Nov, 1st at 6:00 PM in the Guidance Conference Room at the Gilbert School and on Wednesday, November 14th in the third-floor conference room at Town Hall.

Before the next meeting, a Word version of the contract will be marked up by Gilbert and distributed to all members of the teams.

5.       Adjournment – a motion to adjourn (Heffernan/Pfenninger) was made at 5:07 PM and was unanimously accepted.

Respectfully submitted for the teams,

Steven Sedlack, Recorder

W. L. Gilbert School Corporation
Ad Hoc Negotiations Team and
Winchester Board of Education
Ad Hoc Negotiations Team – Joint Minutes

Date:  November 1, 2018

1.       Roll Call – Meeting called to order at 6:10 PM in the Guidance Conference Room at The Gilbert School, 200 Williams Avenue, Winsted, CT.

Present: Charles Seaback, Holly Cassaday and Steven Sedlack, School Corp Members and Dr. Anthony Serio, Superintendent of the School representing the Gilbert Team

Present: Doug Pfenninger, Cheryl Heffernan, Dr. Richard Dutton Winchester Board of Education Members and Melony Brady-Shanley, Superintendent of Schools representing the WBOE Team.

2.       Discussion regarding negotiations of the successor contract between the W.L. Gilbert School Corp. and the Winchester Board of Education.

The members walked through the red-lined version of the 2011-2014 contract between the parties. Changes were noted based on the conversation at the October 24, 2018 negotiations meeting.  The WBOE team noted that they proposed further consideration of the 5% enrollment concept in Section 4, Procedures for Establishing Tuition, of the 2017-2019 contract between the parties.  In that same contract, they proposed further consideration of the monthly enrollment reports in Section 12, Student Data.

The parties agreed to caucus at 6:22 PM and the main meeting resumed at 6:56 PM.

The WBOE team put forth proposals regarding (1) term of contract, (2) designation, (3) a plan to simplify tuition, (4) elimination of arbitration, (5) student data, (6) requirements for Gilbert to meet annual ESSA targets and (7) discussion about potential shared school leadership.  The Gilbert team asked for consideration on the $216,000 owed to the School Corporation in 2016-17.

The parties again agreed to caucus at 7:11 PM and the main meeting resumed at 7:45 PM.

The Gilbert team decided it needs time to research the issues around the annual ESSA targets as well as the financial risks the school would face under the tuition ideas that WBOE had proposed. The discussion will continue at the next meeting.

4.     Next Meeting – will be held on Wednesday, November 14th in the third-floor conference room at Town Hall.

5.       Adjournment – a motion to adjourn (Heffernan/Cassaday) was made at 8:15 PM and was unanimously accepted.

Respectfully submitted for the teams,

Steven Sedlack

Recorder

Board of Education 
Special Meeting - Minutes
Tuesday, November 27, 2018
Blue Room, Town Hall, 6:30 p.m.

1. Open the meeting. - Special Meeting. 6:32 pm
2. Roll Call:

   1. Present: Melony Brady-Shanley, Superintendent, Dr. Richard Dutton, Nora Mocarski, Doug Pfenninger, Alexandria Propfe, Chris Royer, Shana DeVaux, Kristin Peterson

   2. Absent (excused): Michelle Hintz, Cheryl Heffernan

   3. Also in attendance: Rosanne Field, Principal, Batcheller School, Nancy O’Dea-Wyrick, Director of Finance & Business Services, Seamus Cullinan, Director of Student Services, Barbara Silverio, Principal, Pearson School

3. Grievance Issue:

   1. Doug Pfenninger: BOE Chair, Hearing Officer.

      1. The Defendant, Mr. Bujar Bauta &  Mr. Zbigniew Sypniewski, Custodians, Batcheller School

         1. Speaking in their defense: Mr. Edward Kosinski, NAGE National Representative for NAGE Local # R1-234 and Ms. Linda Farnham - Winchester NAGE President

      2. For the BOE: Nancy O’Dea Wyrick, Superintendent Melony Brady-Shanley, and Rosanne Field, Principal, Batcheller School.

   2. Mr. Bauta & Mr. Zbigniew elected to have this Grievance Procedure conducted in Open Session.

   3. Evidentiary portion of meeting with questions and answers from the BOE.

   4. 7:00pm MOTION to recess into a non-meeting for the purpose of conducting deliberations regarding the grievance and to invite the for Superintendent Brady-Shanley.

Motion: C. Royer. Second: R. Dutton. → Unanimous, 7-0.

7:25pm MOTION to come out of executive session:

Motion: C. Royer. Second: K. Peterson → Unanimous, 7-0.

7:25pm MOTION to deny Grievance:

Motion: C. Royer. Second: A. Propfe → Unanimous, 7-0.

4. Adjourn

   1. Motion to adjourn

W. L. Gilbert School Corporation
Winchester Board of Education
December 6, 2018
Joint Board Meeting Minutes

1.       Roll Call – Meeting called to order by Steven Sedlack at 6:02 PM at the Beardsley & Memorial Library, Winsted, CT.

Present: Charles Seaback, Holly Cassaday, Jennifer Marchand and Steven Sedlack, Gilbert School Corp Members and Dr. Anthony Serio, Superintendent of the School.

Present: Dr. Richard Dutton, Michelle Hintz, Nora Mocarski, Theresa Padin, Kristen Peterson, Doug Pfenninger and Alexandria Propfe, Winchester Board of Education Members and Melony Brady-Shanley, Superintendent of Schools.

2.       General Discussion regarding the following areas.

• Curriculum
• Project-based Learning
• Inquiry-based Learning
• Scheduling – Block vs. Modified Block
• Benefits of Professional Development for Teachers and Students
• Explanation of Reset Room – Information and Benefits
• Crisis Team Coordination
• Safety Plans Alignment
• Facilities Updates included Hinsdale, Batcheller and Gilbert

3.       Next Meeting – will be held on March 7, 2019 at 6:00, site to be determined.

4.       Adjournment – Holly motioned to adjourn meeting @ 7:39 p.m., seconded by Michelle Hintz. Vote was unanimous.

Ellen C. Marino
Recorder

W. L. Gilbert School Corporation Ad Hoc Negotiations Team
and
Winchester Board of Education Ad Hoc Negotiations Team

January 14, 2019

Joint Minutes

1.            Roll Call – Meeting called to order at 6:05 PM in the Guidance Conference Room at The Gilbert School.

Present: Charles Seaback, Holly Cassaday and Steven Sedlack, School Corp Members and Dr. Anthony Serio, Superintendent of the School representing the Gilbert Team

Present: Doug Pfenninger, Cheryl Heffernan, Dr. Richard Dutton Winchester Board of Education Members and Melony Brady-Shanley, Superintendent of Schools representing the WBOE Team.  Also present was WBOE Finance Director Nancy O’Dea Wyrick. 

Present and observing was WBOE member Chris Peterson.

2.            Discussion regarding negotiations of the successor contract between the W.L. Gilbert School Corp. and the Winchester Board of Education.

On behalf of the Gilbert Team C. Seaback responded to the proposal of the WBOE at the last meeting that Gilbert consider a 2% increase on all lines except medical insurance at 4%, a 50 student enrollment projection on the part of the sending district, the W.L. Gilbert Trust Corp, and a re-visit of enrollment on October 1st.

Supt. Brady-Shanley presented a document entitled Winchester Public School Proposal – Things to Know and reviewed its contents.

A caucus to consider the proposal was suggested and began at 6:23 PM.  The main meeting continued at 6:51 PM.

C. Seaback requested more time to analyze the data presented commenting that it does not seem to reflect the Gilbert situation as Gilbert perceives it.  He rejected the proposal and suggested that for this year the groups follow the budgeting process as used in the past.

Another caucus was requested and held from 6:59 to 7:12 PM.

 D. Pfenninger summarized the financial situation in which the town finds itself and the WBOE has been asked to keep flat its budget request.   Discussion ensued about budget strategies. 

It was agreed that Dr. Serio would present his preliminary 2019-20 budget to the School Corp Finance Committee on Tuesday, January 29, 2019 at 6:00 in the library media center at the Gilbert School.  Members of the WBOE and Supt. Brady-Shanley are invited to attend.

D. Pfenninger requested further consideration of the other language items in the contract (designation, duration, etc.).  It was agreed that H. Cassaday would forward to everyone the red-lined version of the 2011-2014 contract that was discussed at a previous meeting.

3.            Next Negotiations Meeting – will be held on Tuesday, February 5, 2019 in the Third Floor Conference Room at town hall at 5:30 PM.

4              Adjournment – a motion to adjourn (S. Sedlack/H. Cassaday) was made at 8:00 PM and was unanimously accepted.

Respectfully submitted for the teams,

 

Steven Sedlack

Recorder

Winchester Board of Education
Type of Meeting: Special Finance Committee Meeting Minutes
Location: Town Hall 338 Main Street Winsted, CT - Blue Room
Date: March 21, 2019 @ 6:00 p.m.

Meeting Facilitator: Melony Brady-Shanley - Superintendent, Nancy O’Dea-Wyrick - Director of Finance

Invitees: Board of Education (BOE) Members (in alphabetical order by last name): Shana DeVoux, Dr. Richard Dutton, Cheryl Heffernan, Michelle Hintz, Nora Mocarski, Secretary; Kristin Peterson, Doug Pfenninger, Chairman; Alexandria Propfe, Christine Royer

1. Called to order at 6:00 pm.

2. Roll Call - Present: K. Peterson, M. Hintz, D. Pfenninger, N. Mocarski, R. Dutton, C. Heffernan, M. Brady-Shanley, Superintendent, C. Royer entered at 6:45.

3. New Business
   1. Discussion of the Gilbert / Winchester Board of Education budget.
      1. MOTION: To send D. Pfenninger, C. Heffernan, from the BOE as well as Superintendent M. Brady-Shanley and Director of Finance Nancy O’Dea-Wyrick to meet the Gilbert School Corporation on March 27, 2019, for purposes of discussing the tuition rate for 2019-2020.
      2. First: N. Mocarski, Second: M. Hintz → Aye: 6 - Nay: 0, Abstain: 1

4. Adjourn at 7:06 pm
   1. MOTION: M. Hintz, Second: C. Heffernan → U.

Winchester Board of Education
Type of Meeting: Special Meeting MINUTES
Location:  Town Hall 338 Main Street Winsted, CT – Blue Room
Date:  Wednesday, April 3, 2019 @ 7:00 p.m.

Call to Order

Meeting called to order at 7 p.m.

Roll Call

Cheryl Heffernan, Michelle Hintz, Doug Pfenninger, Richard Dutton, Christine Royer, Nora Mocarski, Melony Brady-Shanley, Superintendent of Schools

Business

Discuss the 2019 -2020 Fiscal Year Budget

MOTION to increase the Gilbert line to $450,000 financed by a line transfer of $150,000 from the Winchester Public Schools and $150,000 from the Town Budget and $150,000 tax increase to the taxpayer and Gilbert would reduce their proposed budget to the Winchester Public Schools by $150,000 and the Gilbert Trust would would increase their funding to the Gilbert Corporation by $57,000 as discussed the Joint Finance Committee to send this to the full Winchester Board of Education for action.

            First: Christine Royer
Second: Douglas Pfenninger

                                    In favor: 2
Opposed: 4
Motion fails

MOTION to advise the Gilbert School that this Winchester Finance Committee is not recommending to the full Winchester Board of Education the suggestion of a resolution which was to increase the Gilbert line to $450,000 financed by a line transfer of $150,000 from the Winchester Public Schools and $150,000 from the Town Budget and $150,000 tax increase to the taxpayer and Gilbert would reduce their proposed budget to the Winchester Public Schools by $150,000 and the Gilbert Trust would would increase their funding to the Gilbert Corporation by $57,000 as discussed the Joint Finance Committee.

            First: Cheryl Heffernan
Second: Michelle Hintz

                                 In favor: 5
Opposed: 0
Abstention: 1
Motion carries

Adjourn

            MOTION to adjourn at 8:28 pm.

                        First: Michelle Hintz
Second: Cheryl Heffernan
6-0 → Unanimous

W. L. Gilbert School Corporation Ad Hoc Negotiations Team

and

Winchester Board of Education Ad Hoc Negotiations Team

May 31, 2019

Joint Minutes
1.  Roll Call – Meeting called to order at 11:09 AM in the Blue Room at Town Hall, 338 Main Street, Winsted, CT.
Present: Charles Seaback, Holly Cassaday and Steven Sedlack, School Corp Members and Dr. Anthony Serio, Superintendent of the School representing the Gilbert Team

Present: Doug Pfenninger, Cheryl Heffernan, Dr. Richard Dutton Winchester Board of Education Members and Melony Brady-Shanley, Superintendent of Schools representing the WBOE Team.  

2.  Approval of Minutes
A motion to approve the minutes of the May 23^, 2019 meeting was made by C. Seaback, seconded by Dr. Dutton and accepted unanimously.
 

3.  Discussion regarding negotiations of the successor contract between the W.L. Gilbert School Corp. and the Winchester Board of Education.
The Gilbert Team requested time to caucus to consider the agreement reached by the superintendents to close the gap in the proposed 2019-2020 education budget proposal.  The teams caucused from 11:12 and the meeting resumed at 11:38.

The teams agreed with the decision on budget reached by the superintendents.

The Winchester team then submitted a proposal which was a red-lined copy of the 5/23/19 draft proposal submitted by the Gilbert team.  The salient points of the proposal were reviewed by C. Heffernan.

The Gilbert team requested a caucus to consider the proposals, and the teams caucused from 11:54 to 12:25.

When talks resumed, the consensus was that there were substantive issues on which the teams were far apart and could not agree.  Talks are discontinued indefinitely.

It was agreed that the two superintendents and two board chairs would meet and sign a one-page, one-year agreement establishing the tuition that The W. L.                    Gilbert School will be paid for the 2019-2020 year.
 

4.  Adjournment – a motion to adjourn (C. Seaback/Dr. Dutton) was made at 12:40 PM and was unanimously accepted.

Respectfully submitted for the teams,
Steven Sedlack

Recorder