THE YORK REGION BOARD OF EDUCATION BOARD MEETING MINUTES - PUBLIC SESSION JUNE 26, 1997
The Board Meeting - Public Session of The York Region Board of Education was held in the Board Room of The Education Centre, Aurora at 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, June 26, 1997 with Vice-Chair K. Barker presiding and the following members present; Trustees Barkey, Bennett, Bowes, Caine, Dunlop, Dunn, Forfar, Hackson, Hunter, Irish, Jonsson, Middleton and Nightingale.
Regrets: Chair B. Crothers, Trustees P. Gunn, L. Pengelly, R. Stevenson and J. West.
Also in attendance: Student Trustee Representative S. Shin and Student Trustee Designate S. Pohani.
INVOCATION
Trustee H. Nightingale delivered the Invocation.
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
1. Moved by D. Caine, seconded by D. Middleton:
That the agenda be approved with the changes announced by the Board Chair.
- Carried -
SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENTS
Presentations to Trustee Paul Bennett
Acting Chair K. Barker introduced John Sabo, Associate Director - Corporate Services of the York Region Roman Catholic Separate School Board. Associate Director Sabo personally thanked the trustees and staff of The York Region Board of Education for the spirit of cooperation currently enjoyed by both boards in the joint initiatives and recognized that the spirit of cooperation is unduplicated in the province.
Associate Director John Sabo recounted his association with Dr. P. Bennett, Trustee of The York Region Board of Education through the initiatives undertaken by the Joint Board Consortium. Mr. Sabo thanked Trustee Bennett for his cooperation and expressed his appreciation for his persistence and tenacity in finding the right solution which addressed the needs of all concerned parties. Associate Director Sabo presented a plaque to Trustee Bennett on behalf of the Joint Board Consortium in recognition of his service and leadership.
Acting Chair K. Barker introduced Marney Walker from Student Express presenting on behalf of Student Transportation Services and Bus Operators. Ms. Walker recounted the distinguished career of Trustee Bennett, both as an Administrator for Upper Canada College and as a Trustee for The York Region Board of Education. BOARD MEETING MINUTES - PUBLIC SESSION PAGE 2 JUNE 26, 1997
She also recognized his many accomplishments with respect to the Joint Board Consortium - Transportation Services. Ms. Walker congratulated Trustee Bennett for his considerable accomplishments as well as his dedication. On behalf of Student Transportation Services, Ms. Walker presented a plaque in recognition of Trustee Bennetts service.
Trustee J. Jonsson was introduced to make a presentation to Dr. Bennett on behalf of the Board. Trustee Jonsson provided a retrospective of Trustee Bennetts tenure with The York Region Board of Education. As Budget Committee Chair, Dr. Bennett established a consultation procedure to seek input from system partners during the budget process. Dr. Bennetts focus on providing the best educational experience for our students was always the basis for his decision making. Trustee Jonsson congratulated Dr. Bennett on his style of bringing to the table many new initiatives with respect to the Joint Board Consortium, establishing a provincial communication network for trustees and chairing the Task Force for Alcohol and Drug Education. Congratulations on his new position as Head Master of Lower Canada College were offered by Trustee Jonsson.
Trustee Jonsson, on behalf of The York Region Board of Education, presented Trustee Bennett with a framed copper embossed print of the Board logo created by Visual Arts Consultant, Wayne Rose.
Acting Chair K. Barker recognized Director of Education B. Hogarth, who offered his congratulations to Trustee Bennett on his new position. The Director identified one of Trustee Bennetts key contributions as his unwavering belief in student success. He has challenged the Board and staff for specifics on both the direction and definition of student success. Student success is everyones goal, Trustee Bennett defined what student success means and has constantly kept that focus. On behalf of the staff and students in York Region we offer our thanks for your contributions to student success throughout the years.
Ontario Local Government Innovative Public Service Delivery Award
The Director announced that The York Region Board of Education and the York Region Roman Catholic Separate School Board have received the 1997 Ontario Local Government Innovative Public Service Delivery Award for the Joint Board Consortium which has found new ways of doing business which deliver better services at reduced costs. The annual awards, which recognize innovation, creativity and cost savings, are sponsored by the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing, the Ministry of Education and Training, Price Waterhouse on behalf of the Canadian Council for Public Private Partnerships, and professional associations.
APPLAUSE!
You cant achieve without a dream, without a vision. In Bonavista on Wednesday at the landing of The Matthew, Queen Elizabeth noted, "Many great achievements begin with a dream." BOARD MEETING MINUTES - PUBLIC SESSION PAGE 3 JUNE 26, 1997
Director of Education B. Hogarth announced that this evening we are celebrating many great achievements that did begin with a dream -- the dream of students to excel, the dream of teachers to inspire learning.
"Hold fast to dreams," said poet Langston Hughes, "for when dreams die, life is a broken winged bird that cannot fly."
Director of Education B. Hogarth announced that a number of administrators, teachers and students are unable to join us tonight due to end-of-school activities. We, nevertheless, applaud their dreams, achievements and contributions.
• International DECA Competition 97 DECA provides students with the opportunity to participate in real-life activities and thus develop both leadership and competitive skills. At the board, provincial and international levels, students compete in activities such as advertising, fashion and design, financial services, hospitality and tourism. Of the 150 Ontario students selected to compete in the international competition in Anaheim, California, 70 were from York Region! The competition itself is challenging and includes a written test and two simulations. On this international level, there are as many as 10,000 in the early competitions, with 500 entered in the finals of each category. On the final day, 20 contestants are selected to compete in one final simulation, and 10 are awarded prizes. We had six York Region students in the final 10 in their categories! Congratulations to our six finalists: • Brandon Vigon, King City Secondary School, was a finalist in the election for national president of DECA. • Hartley Lefton, Thornlea Secondary School, finished in the top 10 in his category. • Len Kofman and Daniel Chen, Markham District High School. Students of teacher Colleen Sheardown, Len and Daniel finished third overall in their team category. • Of our Thornhill Secondary School students -- Nadia Sapiro, Amy Stork and Ryan Kirshenblatt -- Nadia finished in the top 10, and Amy and Ryan finished in the top 10 in their team category. • Kudos also to Bayview Secondary School teachers Karan McHenry and Claudia Pestrin for their work with the DECA provincial executive, as well as to the proud principals who are here this evening: Ron Gilchrist, Rhynda Bulson, Fred Sadler and Mike Magarrey. As Mike has recently noted in Team York, DECA stands for a real-world commitment to excellence. It stands for competition in a most positive way. It stands for pride in self and community. And we can be very proud of the way in which our students represented these values in international competition.
• The Toronto Sun Teacher of the Year The Toronto Sun has once again selected a York Region Board of Education teacher as one of its 10 Teachers of the Year -- Rich Lunney, who teaches at Crosby Heights Public School. A most positive, enthusiastic, patient and understanding teacher, Rich exemplifies commitment and dedication, working tirelessly to provide quality education to his students. Beyond his classroom, he continues to give tirelessly and unselfishly of himself, helping students, coaching teams, and supporting the school in innumerable ways. Rich is truly an BOARD MEETING MINUTES - PUBLIC SESSION PAGE 4 JUNE 26, 1997 exemplary educator, enriching the lives of his students and colleagues and making a major contribution to staff, student and school success. Principal Linda Arlidge joins us in celebrating his innumerable contributions and achievements.
• Ontario Public School Boards Association Awards The Ontario Public School Boards Association has recognized Elizabeth Parry, King City Secondary School, as an outstanding student and has selected her as the recipient of the 1997 Jack A. MacDonald Award of Merit, which we are presenting on behalf of OPSBA tonight. An honours student, she is actively involved in sports, music, the school newspaper, drama productions, the environmental club, peer mentoring and the math tutoring lab and helped plan and organize "King Camp," a three-day off-campus orientation experience for Grade 9 students. In her community, she is a Sunday school teacher, choir member and an organizer of activities for the church Youth Group. Liz is also the youth member for the York Regional Police Chiefs Community Council, chair of York Regions Red Cross Youth Action Council, and participated in the Ontario Task Force on Youth, focusing on youth employment. Our best wishes for your continued success, Liz.
• Certificate of Recognition Alexander Mackenzie High School student Fatima Sunderji, is the recipient of OPSPAs Certificate of Recognition. Although she only arrived in Canada from Kenya in 1990, her successes are numerous and varied. She meets her challenges with enthusiasm and determination, and hopes to help people overcome barriers. Among her recent achievements: the Herbert H. Carnegie Future Aces Citizenship Award and Scholarship, the University of Torontos Book Award, and Celebrating Student Success 97. Well done, Fatima. • And congratulations to Liz and Fatimas principals, Rhynda Bulson and Sally McAlpine.
• Gauss Mathematics Competition Perfect Scorers More than 3,600 students participated in the Gauss Mathematics Competition, and four of our Grade 7 students have received perfect scores of 150 out of a possible 150. It is noteworthy that all four of our Community Education Centre family of schools each had a perfect scorer. Aaron Adams, Stuart Scott Public School Thomas Strand-Allard, Summitview Public School Blake Turner, Glen Shields Public School Jimi Witkowski, King City Public School Perfectly fantastic! And congratulations to your principals and teachers who are here this evening: Arleen Griffin and teacher Linda Clemow from Stuart Scott; and Summitview Vice-Principal Claude Zorzi. BOARD MEETING MINUTES - PUBLIC SESSION PAGE 5 JUNE 26, 1997
• York Region Schools Were Among the Top 50 Schools in Canada in Recent National Math Competitions York Region Board of Education students in Grades 9 through OAC recently participated in national mathematics competitions. Administered by the Faculty of Mathematics, University of Waterloo, the annual events challenge the best mathematics students in Canada and abroad. Ten of our schools have ranked among the top 50 schools in Canada. The 15 students who made the Canadian Honour Roll, moreover, are from these 10 schools. This evening, we would like to recognize the significant achievements of these 10 schools by honouring the principals and heads of mathematics: Aurora High School and Mike McGibbon, Head of Math. Aurora High ranked 42nd in the Descartes Contest for OAC students. Bayview Secondary School and Principal Ron Gilchrist and Head of Math Satish Rai. Bayview tied for 22nd in the Descartes Contest. Langstaff Secondary School and Head of Math Alyson Worrall. Langstaff tied for 44th in the Descartes Contest. Markham District High School and Principal Fred Sadler. Markham tied for 20th in Canada in the Cayley Contest for Grade 10, tying for 10th in Ontario; ranked 29th in the Fermat Contest for Grade 11, 15th in Ontario; and also tied for 47th in Canada in the Descartes Contest. Head of Math Del Marlatt is unable to be with us this evening. Markville Secondary School, Principal Mike Wasylenky and Head of Math Jan Scully. Markville tied for 28th in the Pascal Contest for Grade 9, tying for 13th in Ontario. Milliken Mills High School, Principal Ken McAlpine, and Head of Math Ann Rubin. Milliken tied for 27th in Canada in the Euclid Contest for Grade 12, tying for 13th in Ontario. Milliken also ranked 13th in Canada in the Descartes Contest. Richmond Hill High School, Principal Bryan Kettlewell and Head of Math Elizabeth Lehman. Richmond Hill High tied for 27th in the Pascal Contest and was 12th in Ontario. Richmond Hill also tied for 47th in Canada in the Descartes Contest. Thornhill Secondary School ranked 26th nationally in the Euclid Contest for Grade 12 and 12th in Ontario; and tied for 25th in Canada the Descartes Contest. Thornlea Secondary School, Principal Mike Magarrey and Head of Math Bart McCutcheon. Thornlea tied for 43rd in the Pascal Contest, tying for 21st in Ontario. Thornlea also tied for 32nd in the Cayley Contest, tying for 17th in Ontario. In the Descartes Contest, moreover, Thornlea tied for 22nd. Unionville High School and Head of Math Myrna Ingalls. Unionville High tied for 43rd in Canada in the Euclid Contest for Grade 12, ranking 19th in Ontario.
Well done! We thank the teachers and administrators for their continued efforts on behalf of our students.
And Curriculum Consultant Barry Scully, a.k.a. "The Math Guy," is here basking in, excuse the pun, the sum total of the mathematic achievements of our schools, teachers and students.
• National and Provincial Science Competitions • The University of Waterloo Chem 13 News Exam Second Place Winners Ryan Korda and Ryan Lindo, Vaughan Secondary School BOARD MEETING MINUTES - PUBLIC SESSION PAGE 6 JUNE 26, 1997
In the University of Waterloo Chem 13 News Exam, which had 4,475 participants this year, Vaughan Secondary School students Ryan Korda and Ryan Lindo tied for second! They and nine other Vaughan Secondary students who scored in the top 200 were awarded University of Waterloo Summer Researchships. Congratulations to Ryan Korda, Ryan Lindo, your teacher, Dr. Stavros Naxakis and to your Principal John McLean.
• The Chemical Institute of Chemistry Exam Markham District High School student Ryan Van Wert placed fourth in Ontario in the Chemical Institute of Chemistry Exam. Accompanying Ryan this evening is Head of Science and national Prime Ministers Award winner Carl Twiddy as well as Principal Fred Sadler.
• Ontario Biology Competition Top 10 Of the 253 teams participating in this years 1997 Ontario Biology Competition, Thornlea Secondary School, represented this evening by Principal Mike Magarrey, placed 10th. Grade 11 student Michael Bretholz, who is unable to join us this evening, was one of the top 25 participants and was named an Ontario Biology Scholar with Distinction. This is the third consecutive year that Thornlea has placed in the top 10 in this competition, which is coordinated by a U of T professor who is aptly a Thornlea grad.
• The Canadian Association of Physicists High School Exam Many of our students excelled in the Canadian Association of Physicists High School Exam. Among the top scorers in Ontario are: Prasun Chaudhuri, Markville Secondary School, who tied for second; Derek Yee, Markville Secondary School, 12th; and Jeff Or, Markham District High School, 17th.
• Toronto Star 2nd Annual Student Publication Awards Ryan Lethbridge, a most talented Grade 12 student in the Arts York program at Unionville High School, is the first place winner for illustration in The Toronto Stars 2nd Annual Student Publication competition. The winning illustration, which Ryan created for the schools arts and literary magazine, SINTAKS, topped entries from 1300 schools.
• MusicFest Canada Huron Heights jazz ensembles - directed by music teacher Kevin Anderson - participated in MusicFest Canada 97, which featured more than 400 ensembles chosen from 80 regional festivals held across the country this year. Cest Jazz, the senior vocal jazz ensemble earned a Silver Award for its fine performance while After Hours, the senior jazz band, earned a Gold Award, acknowledging them as one of the top high school jazz ensembles in Canada for the second consecutive year. Four students, moreover, earned individual honours. Lindsay Cadieux and Kip Rogers received Honour Awards for their contributions to the performances of their ensembles, and Lindsay also won the festivals Vocal Scholarship for her outstanding vocal performance. Wes Oldham, moreover, was selected for the Yamaha Canada All-Star Band as the top baritone sax player in the festival. The achievements of Huron Heights jazz ensembles is music to Principal Maryann Braziers ears! BOARD MEETING MINUTES - PUBLIC SESSION PAGE 7 JUNE 26, 1997
• Sears Ontario Drama Festival Honours Huron Heights Secondary Schools dramatic production of "Women and Wallace," directed by teacher Mike Halfin, was performed at the 1997 Sears Ontario Drama Festival in Kingston in May, one of 15 plays chosen province-wide for this honour. Student Michael Taylors performance was recognized with an Award of Excellence. Michael had previously received Awards of Excellence in the District Festival and the Toronto Regional Showcase as well as the Hart House Award of Outstanding Achievement, one of only two awarded to individual performances. At the provincial festival, student Kyle Brooks received an Award of Outstanding Achievement for lighting design, one of only two awarded. Kyle previously won an Award of Excellence at the Toronto District Festival. At the provincial festival, student Kym MacIntosh also won an Award of Merit for costume design. The female cast members -- Samantha Fraser, Jennifer McColeman, Deanna Somers, Alexandra Karolyi, Janelle Joseph, Carol Burgess, Mandy Roveda and Christine Murphy -- moreover, received Awards of Excellence for their ensemble performances as both the district festival and regional showcase. The plays performed at the provincial festival represent the highest achievement in Ontario high school drama. Principal Maryann Brazier joins us in saying "Bravo!"
The York Region Environmental Education Awards: Each year, on behalf of the Environmental Council, we recognize eight schools, two in each CEC family of schools, for their outstanding contributions to Environmental Education. At recent international conferences, Canada has been taken to task for its lack of commitment to the environment. Not so of our schools, our staff, our students and our communities who consistently and creatively demonstrate their ongoing commitment to the environment. Before we present this years awards, I would like to recognize the commitment of the six Environmental Council members who have worked diligently to promote greater environmental awareness since the Council was established in 1990. In addition to creating our Environmental Policy, they have organized and participated in numerous conferences, workshops, projects and programs and have been instrumental in establishing recycling and waste management programs. Their dedication to the environment and to the awakening of students to their precious world is immeasurable: Margaret Brevik, Supervisor of Energy and Environment, Plant Services Donna Coburn, Teacher, Sutton District High School Trisha Healy, Consultant, Geography and Outdoor Education, Curriculum Dianne More, Teacher, William Armstrong Public School Kevin Moyle, Senior Buyer, Purchasing Frank Tynan, Administrator of Community Services, Operations.
And we now present the 1997 Environmental Education Awards. North • Meadowbrook Public School, active in virtually every aspect of environmental awareness, was the signature school for the Tree of Life program in which students planted 10 new trees in the playground area. BOARD MEETING MINUTES - PUBLIC SESSION PAGE 8 JUNE 26, 1997
Teachers Graham White and Wendy Piwowarek and students Lindsey MacLwaine and Andrew Van Larr are accepting the award and our congratulations on behalf of Meadowbrook.
• Sutton Public Schools most recent project is "The Tree of 19..," planting a new tree each year to be stewarded, measured and graphed by the Kindergarten class. Participation continues in the Metro Conservation Authority Wetland Reclaim Planting Project and Canolab of the Canadian Space Agency. To Principal Ron Ley, teachers Davis Gibbons and Karl Walkden, and students Amber Rose and Karyn Campbell, congratulations and best wishes for Sutton Publics continued environmental success.
Central • George Street Public Schools "The Greening of George Street" is a partnership project which is bringing school staff, students, parents, the Town of Aurora and local corporations together to create an on-site outdoor classroom. Congratulations to Principal Joe Frohlinger and members of the George Street Parent Resource Group -- Gina Black, Donna Grayson, Barb James and Mark Pettes -- who are representing George Street this evening.
• Roselawn Public Schools "Clean Up the Creek" project has increased environmental awareness thanks to the efforts of the Roselawn Leadership Group. The entire school has been involved in hands-on projects, environmental fund-raising and classroom curriculum. Trustee Pat Hunter will accept the award on behalf of Roselawn.
West • Henderson Avenue Public School has made the environment an integral part of the curriculum at all grade levels. The school supports global efforts, including the Trans-Canada Trail and the World Wildlife Funds bird migration, the beluga whale and rainforest programs. Closer to home, planting projects enhance the school environment and support wetland renewal. Teacher Catherine (Kate) Cottington-Manu will accept the award and share our congratulations with the Henderson Avenue School community.
• Johnsview Village Public School has made an extensive commitment to the school and community environment, planting and maintaining the newly initiated Peace Garden, accepting stewardship of an area of a large local park, and continuing its ongoing partnership with the conservation authority in protecting and regenerating the Don River. Accepting the award and our applause for Johnsview Village are Principal Judy Speirs, teacher Margaret Sharp, parent Susan Partridge and student Leanne Partridge.
East • Whitchurch Highlands Public School, over the past two years, has planted 1,500 trees as part of the Habitat Restoration Project initiated in 1995, and installed blue bird boxes to encourage this rare species to breed in the area BOARD MEETING MINUTES - PUBLIC SESSION PAGE 9 JUNE 26, 1997 once again. Thanks to the kettle pond which adjoins the schools 17-acre property, moreover, primary and junior students are involved in pond studies and integrated math studies. Best wishes to Whitchurch Highlands for continued environmental success and to Principal Dr. Catherine Keating for her leadership. Parent Mrs. Casella.
• Unionville Public School has embarked on an expansive environmental journey. "Dream Acres," a five-acre school-community-business partnership, is enabling students to gain an appreciation for nature, recycling, tree growth and regeneration along with a love of the beauty of the outdoors. Congratulations to Unionville Public School and to Principal Carole Cullen, Vice-Principal Farooq Shabbar, parent Jeanette McLellan, and students Caitlin Fell and Kara Aitken for your part in making "Dream Acres" a reality.
PRESENTATION ON EXCHANGE PROGRAM WITH THE YORK REGIONAL POLICE - TED BROADSTOCK
Acting Chair K. Barker, introduced Dr. A. Glaze, Associate Director, to provide an overview on the Exchange Program with the York Regional Police. Dr. Glaze introduced Acting Police Chief Peter Scott and Principal T. Broadstock.
Mr. Broadstock reported on his experiences with the York Regional Police in the Exchange Program. The York Regional Police participant in the exchange program, P.C. Merrith of the Training Division, was at both Huron Heights Secondary School and Middlefield Collegiate, while Ted Broadstock was given various assignments across the region. Mr. Broadstock outlined the mutual benefits to both institutions which have resulted from this exchange program. Mr. Broadstock thanked the Police Services for the experiences and the Board for the opportunity to participate in this worthwhile exchange program.
Mr. Broadstock introduced Acting Police Chief Scott, who thanked the Board for their participation in the exchange program. He thanked Mr. Broadstock for his diligence, hard work and the quality skill set he brought to the program. Chief Scott applauded the exchange program and identified a key factor in the success of the program was the selection of such quality participants.
2. Moved by D. Caine, seconded by D. Middleton:
That the Board receive the report on the York Regional Police Exchange Program.
- Carried - BOARD MEETING MINUTES - PUBLIC SESSION PAGE 10 JUNE 26, 1997
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
4. Moved by N. Dunlop, seconded by V. Hackson:
That the Minutes of the May 29, 1997 Board Meeting be approved as written.
- Carried -
ROUTINE RECOMMENDATIONS
5. Moved by P. Hunter, seconded by A. Forfar:
That the Board adopt the following routine recommendations (*) in accordance with Board Procedure.
SPECIAL EDUCATION ADVISORY COMMITTEE MINUTES, MEETING #5, JUNE 5, 1997
1) Approval of Agenda
That the agenda be approved as amended by moving item #5 prior to item #4 and item #8 to follow item #5.
2) Approval of Minutes
That the minutes of June 5, 1997 be approved with a clarification of point number two at the top of page six by Superintendent J. Page that Parkview Public School has an integrated class not an I.R.S. class as outlined in the model. The students are presently identified as self-contained and will have a high level of integration for the coming year.
3) Addendum to Multi-Year Plan
NOTE: The following recommendations are to be included in the Report to the Minister of Education and Training 1997 Annual Review of Special Education Plans - An Addendum to the Multi-Year Plan. BOARD MEETING MINUTES - PUBLIC SESSION PAGE 11 JUNE 26, 1997
That Special Education Resource Staff be commended for their efforts to maintain the level of support they provide in spite of the tremendous budgetary pressures faced by the Board in 1995, 1996 and 1997.
That the Board be encouraged to allocate in its 1998 budget sufficient funds to ensure that the staff allocated to the services outlined in this report are increased proportionate to the level of growth in the system.
That the Board be urged to direct the Superintendents of Schools to monitor the deployment of staff assigned in order to be able to ensure S.E.A.C. that actual service delivery is that intended.
That in 1998 the Board be requested to increase the staffing allocation of the Professional Resource Staff (non-teaching) by 2.5 F.T.E. to meet growing needs identified within the schools
Request that staff make the following recommendations to the Ministry of Education and Training in order to improve the process of compilation of this report; a) Descriptors of job terms such as "resource withdrawal teachers" and "teacher diagnosticians" need to be clarified so that all Boards are reporting on the same staff.
b) Support staff assignments are difficult to divide between elementary and secondary.
c) If the Ministry of Education and Training is wanting a continuum of service in special education, the teachers of self-contained classes should be part of this compilation of data.
POLICY AND BY-LAW COMMITTEE MINUTES, MEETING #6, JUNE 9, 1997
1) Approval of Agenda
That the agenda be approved as written.
2) Receipt of Minutes
That the Minutes of Meeting #5, May 12, 1997 be received for information.
3) Policy #572.0, Professional Development of Staff
That, in accordance with Policy #285.0, The Writing of Policies, Policy #572.0, Professional Development of Staff, be confirmed without change, effective June 26, 1997. BOARD MEETING MINUTES - PUBLIC SESSION PAGE 12 JUNE 26, 1997
4) Policy #604.0, Alcohol and Drug Education Policy
That, in accordance with Policy #285.0, The Writing of Policies, the consensus draft of Policy #604.0, Substance Abuse, be circulated to the system for comment, as amended.
5) Policy #105.0, Communications Policy
That, in accordance with Policy #285.0, The Writing of Policies, Policy #105.0, Communications Policy, be forwarded to the system for information accompanied by an introductory statement.
6) Policy #606.0, Attendance Communication Program
That, in accordance with Policy #285.0, The Writing of Policies, Policy #606.0, Attendance Communication, be circulated to the system for comment.
7) Policy #660.0, Political Clubs in Secondary Schools
That, in accordance with Policy #285.0, The Writing of Policies, the consensus draft of Policy #660.0, Political Clubs in Secondary Schools, be circulated to the system for comment.
8) Policy #355.0, Psychological Assessment
That, in accordance with Policy #285.0, The Writing of Policies, Policy #355.0, Psychological Assessment, be forwarded to G. DiPasquale for review to be brought back to the October 6, 1997 Policy and By-Law Committee meeting for consideration.
BOARD STANDING COMMITTEE MINUTES, JUNE 9, 1997
1) Approval of Agenda
That the agenda be approved as written.
2) Annual Report of the Reading Recovery Program
That the Board receive the information report on Reading Recovery.
That staff be requested to report to the Board in the Fall of 1997 on the success rate of alternative remedial reading programs. BOARD MEETING MINUTES - PUBLIC SESSION PAGE 13 JUNE 26, 1997
3) Approval of Required Learning Media
That the required learning media listed on the attachment to the Approval of Required Learning Media staff report be approved for use in all schools at the specified division level in accordance with sections 3(b), pg.x; 5(a)(b) and (c), pg. xiii; and Schedule 5, pg. 105; Circular 14, 1995.
4) Portable Accommodation Report
That The York Region Board of Education approve the relocation of 13 portables along with the appropriate site plan improvements required to meet local building codes.
5) Grade Three E.Q.A.O.: Assessment of Reading, Writing and Mathematics Presentation - D. Lindsey, B. Scully and M. Millar
That the presentation on the Grade Three Education, Quality and Assessment Office be received for information.
FRENCH LANGUAGE ADVISORY COMMITTEE MINUTES, MEETING #5, JUNE 10, 1997
1) Approval of Agenda
That the agenda be approved as written.
BOARD STANDING COMMITTEE MINUTES, JUNE 16, 1997
1) Approval of Agenda
That the agenda be approved as written.
2) Report of the Special Task Force
That the Report of the Special Task Force be distributed to schools immediately, prior to Board ratification.
That the Board receive the Report of the Special Task Force and approve the immediate implementation of the following:
1. That The York Region Board of Education develop, communicate, implement, and evaluate a plan for building and sustaining relationships within the system. This plan will contain specific details and timelines for joint initiatives among the Board, its employees, its federations, and its unions. BOARD MEETING MINUTES - PUBLIC SESSION PAGE 14 JUNE 26, 1997
2. That The York Region Board of Education, the York Region Women Teachers Association and the Ontario Public School Teachers Federation-York Region, jointly create a protocol for releasing information to the public and board employees during contract negotiations.
3. That The York Region Board of Education, the York Region Women Teachers Association and the Ontario Public School Teachers Federation-York Region, jointly establish a special information campaign to recognize teachers and exemplary practices in public education.
4. That The York Region Board of Education, the York Region Women Teachers Association and the Ontario Public School Teachers Federation-York Region jointly review and arrive at a common understanding regarding the provision and supervision of extra-curricular programs for elementary school students.
5. That The York Region Board of Education, the York Region Women Teachers Association and the Ontario Public School Teachers Federation-York Region, jointly conduct information gathering activities which:
• encourage students, teachers, support staff, parents, school administrators, supervisory officers, and trustees to share perspectives, ideas, and strategies for furthering our progress in implementing the Special Task Force recommendations; and • assess and report on the implementation of the Special Task Force recommendations by June, 1998 and, subsequently, as required by the Director.
6. That each elementary school be provided with five copies of this report and be granted permission to duplicate as necessary to ensure that all school community members have access.
3) Report to the Minister of Education and Training, 1997 Annual Review of Special Education Plans, An Addendum to the Multi-Year Plan
That the Board receive the Report to the Minister of Education and Training 1997 Annual Review of Special Education Plans - An Addendum to the Multi-Year Plan.
4) Local Education Improvement Committee
That The York Region Board of Education receive the work plan from the Local Education Improvement Committee for submission to the Ministry of Education and Training. BOARD MEETING MINUTES - PUBLIC SESSION PAGE 15 JUNE 26, 1997
5) Official Plan Amendment, File 193004, Town of Richmond Hill
1. That a new public elementary school site will not be required within the area of Official Plan Amendment, File 193004, Town of Richmond Hill.
2. That the Commissioner of Planning for the Town of Richmond Hill be advised of this action.
6) Proposed Plans of Subdivision 19T-97V01, 19T-97V06 and 19T-96V11, City of Vaughan
1. That a new public elementary school site will not be required within the areas of 19T-97V01, 19T-97V06 and 19T-96V11, City of Vaughan.
2. That the Commissioner of Planning and Development for the City of Vaughan be advised of this action.
7) Proposed Plan of Subdivision 19T-96V10, City of Vaughan
1. That a new public elementary school site will be required within the area of 19T-96V10.
2. That the Commissioner of Planning and Development for the City of Vaughan be advised of this action.
8) Facilities Renewal Budget - 1997 - Revised
That the information report on the Revised 1997 Facilities Renewal Budget be received by the Board for information.
9) Opening of Tenders for R.L. Graham Public School, Seven Classroom Addition, Keswick, Town of Georgina
That the Board:
1. Accept the tender of B.W.K. Construction Company Limited in the amount of $503,000 for the construction of R.L. Graham Public School Seven Classroom Addition, Keswick, Town of Georgina.
2. Accept the estimated Total Project Cost of $616,098 inclusive of the tender bid, fees, local authority, furniture and equipment allowance, computer wiring allowance, PST and GST rebate. BOARD MEETING MINUTES - PUBLIC SESSION PAGE 16 JUNE 26, 1997
10) Proposed Draft Plans of Subdivision Sub.97-004 (Cedarland) and Sub.97-005 (EastPine/Ricenberg), Town of Markham
1. That a new public elementary school site will not be required within the area of SUB.97-004 and SUB.97-005 Town of Markham.
2. That the Commissioner of Planning and Development for the Town of Markham be advised of this action.
11) Opening of Tenders for Devins Drive Public School, Ten Classroom Addition, Town of Aurora
That the Board:
1. Accept the tender of W.S. Morgan Construction Limited in the amount of $2,656,000 for the construction of Devins Drive Public School Ten Classroom Addition, Town of Aurora.
2. Accept the estimated Total Project Cost of $3,131,337 inclusive of the tender bid, fees, local authority, furniture and equipment allowance, computer wiring allowance, PST and GST rebate.
- Carried -
CHAIRS COMMITTEE MINUTES, MEETING #6, JUNE 16, 1997
NOTE: Chairs Committee minutes were amended to include Trustee A. Forfar as also in attendance and Trustee K. Barker as Acting Chair.
STUDENT TRUSTEE REPORT
Student Trustee Sharon Shin informed the Board that the York Region Presidents Council has expressed their concern regarding the upcoming teacher labour issues to be negotiated in the Fall. The York Region Presidents Council distributed a questionnaire to students as an opportunity to outline their concerns with respect to the labour issues. The result of the questionnaire clearly communicated that strikes hurt students and that students hope both sides can reach an equitable and fair agreement.
Student Trustee Shin reported on the Anti-Discrimination campaign which is in the development stage. The resources being used consist of Board policies and the Sensitive Issues in the Classroom document to provide information on racism, sexual harassment and other controversial issues. Trustee Shin will be reporting further on this campaign at the next Board meeting.
NOTE: Trustee P. Bennett withdrew from the meeting at 9:12 p.m. BOARD MEETING MINUTES - PUBLIC SESSION PAGE 17 JUNE 26, 1997
CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS REVIEW
Superintendent Snelgrove provided information with respect to preferred completion dates of schools and realistic dates that reflect an accurate date based on percentage of project finished. Stonehaven is currently 61% complete based on a recent evaluation by the Plant Services team. Therefore, the date reflected in Construction Projects Review is indicative of the date the project will be completed. Superintendent Snelgrove stated that a contingency plan is prudent should the contractor fail to meet the professed completion date.
Trustee R. Dunn requested that this information be clearly communicated to the school community. Superintendent Sharratt provided information regarding the various methods of communication which have been utilized to inform the community with respect to the contingency plan.
Trustee D. Caine queried the Lakeside completion date. Superintendent Snelgrove informed the Board that Lakeside is currently 44% complete and it would be unrealistic to expect completion for September 1997. Contingency plans are in place to provide accommodations for students if the school is not ready.
6. Moved by R. Dunn, seconded by P. Hunter:
That the Board receive the staff report Construction Projects Review.
- Carried -
FIRST NATIONS AWARENESS WEEK
7. Moved by J. Jonsson, seconded by D. Caine:
That the Race Relations Advisory Committee recommends that:
October 27 to November 1, 1997 be declared First Nations Awareness Week in The York Region Board of Education, and that schools be encouraged to develop appropriate activities which celebrate Aboriginal culture.
- Carried -
BOARD STANDING COMMITTEE MINUTES, JUNE 16, 1997
8. Moved by A. Forfar, seconded by K. Irish:
That the Cash Disbursements for May 1997 for all expenditures except item #32 in the sum of $3,278,519.76 be approved.
- Carried - BOARD MEETING MINUTES - PUBLIC SESSION PAGE 18 JUNE 26, 1997
9. Moved by A. Forfar, seconded by K. Irish:
That Cash Disbursements for May 1997 for item #32 in the sum of $35,560,642.86 be approved.
- Carried -
NOTE: Trustee N. Dunlop declared a conflict of interest on recommendation #9 and refrained from discussion and voting on this item.
RECOMMENDATION RE NEW PINE GROVE PUBLIC SCHOOL, GAMBLE STREET, CITY OF VAUGAN
10. Moved by H. Nightingale, seconded by N. Dunlop:
That the increased costs of the New Pine Grove Public School, Gamble Street, in the City of Vaughan be dealt with in public session of the June 26, 1997 Board Meeting.
- Carried -
Trustee H. Nightingale provided an overview of the process which led to recommendation #10. The increased costs are as a result of the resolution passed by the City of Vaughan to change the location of the school. Where costs were incurred as a result of the site relocation those costs should be forwarded to the City of Vaughan.
Trustee J. Jonsson expressed concern over the incident as progress has been realized in forging new relationships of cooperation with the City of Vaughan. An understanding of the impact these decisions have must be clearly communicated.
Trustee N. Dunlop reported that the opening of the new school has been delayed by two months and off site locations for the students have resulted in increased costs with respect to transportation and staffing issues.
11. Moved by H. Nightingale, seconded by N. Dunlop:
That The York Region Board of Education invoice the City of Vaughan in the amount of $978,742.80 for the cost involved in the relocation of the new Pine Grove School as directed by a motion of Vaughan Council.
- Carried - BOARD MEETING MINUTES - PUBLIC SESSION PAGE 19 JUNE 26, 1997
ONTARIO PUBLIC SCHOOL BOARDS ASSOCIATION, MEMBERSHIP FEES FOR 1997
12. Moved by N. Dunlop, seconded by D. Middleton:
That The York Region Board of Education offer to forward 1/4 of the Annual Fees (approximately $23,000) to OPSBA, representing the period preceding March 1, 1997, being the date that membership fees are due and payable.
- Carried -
ADJOURNMENT
13. Moved by V. Hackson, seconded by P. Hunter:
That the Board Meeting - Public Session be adjourned at 9:55 p.m.
- Carried -
Chair of the Board Director of Education and Secretary-Treasurer REPORT FROM BOARD MEETING - PRIVATE SESSION, JUNE 26, 1997
3. Moved by J. Jonsson, seconded by R. Dunn:
1) That the Board approve the recommendation in the staff report Leaves of Absence.
2) That the Board approve the recommendation in the staff report Resignations.
3) That the Board approve the recommendation in the staff report Resignation for Retirement Purposes.
4) That The York Region Board of Education approve the recommendations in the June 16, 1997 Board Standing Committee minutes.
- Carried -