Approved by the Charlotte­ Mecklenburg Board of Education March 22, 2005 Regular Board Meeting

Charlotte, North Carolina December 14,2004

REGULAR MEETING of the CHARLOTTE-MECKLENBURG BOARD OF EDUCATION

The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Board of Education held a Regular Board Meeting on December 14, 2004 at 4:38 p.m. in Room CH-14 at the Government Center.

Present: Joe White, Chairperson; Kit Cramer, Vice Chairperson; Kaye McGarry, Member At Large; Larry Gauvreau (District 1); Vilma D. Leake (District 2); Louise Woods (District 4); and B. Lee Kindberg (District 6)

Absent: George Dunlap (District 3); and Molly Griffin (District 5)

Also present at the request of the Board were Dr. James L. Pughsley, Superintendent; Maurice Green, General Counsel to the Board; and Nancy Daughtridge, Clerk to the Board.

Upon motion by Ms. Cramer, and seconded by Ms. McGarry, the Board voted unanimously of those present to go into Closed Session for the following purpose:

• To hear and discuss personnel matters, pursuantto Sections 115C-319, 115C-338, and 143-318.11(a)(1), (5), and (6) of the North Carolina General Statutes.

Chairperson White reconvened the Regular Board Meeting at 6:03 p.m. in the Meeting Chamber of the Government Center. CMS TV Channel 3 televised the meeting.

Present: Joe White, Chairperson; Kit Cramer, Vice Chairperson; Kaye McGarry, Member At Large; Larry Gauvreau (District 1); Vilma D. Leake (District 2); George Dunlap (District 3); Louise Woods (District 4); Molly Griffin (District 5); and B. Lee Kindberg (District 6)

1 of30- Regular Board Meeting, December 14, 2004 Absent: There were no absences

Also present at the request of the Board were Dr. James L. Pughsley, Superintendent; Dr. Frances Haithcock, Associate Superintendent for Education Services; Greg Clemmer, Deputy Superintendent for Operations; other members of the Executive and Senior Staffs; Maurice Green, General Counsel to the Board; and Nancy Daughtridge, Clerk to the Board.

I. CALL TO ORDER

Chairperson White called the meeting to order at 6:03 p.m. Chairperson White apologized for the delay in the start of the meeting. He reported the Board members had previously been meeting in Closed Session.

A. Pledge of Allegiance

Chairperson White said the Board was delighted to have students with the Best Friends Diamond Girls Jazz Choir to sing several holiday songs. Chairperson White reported Arthur Minter, who is a teacher at Reid Park Elementary School, would lead the choir. Chairperson White introduced the participants, their schools, and principals as follows:

Garinger High School: Jo Ella Ferrell, principal Raven Monroe, 11'h grader Jocielyn Roach, 11 th grader

Vance High School: Katherine Rea, principal Jasmine Cureton, 10th grader

Hopewell High School: Alan Cox, principal Lovelia Reid, 9th grader

West Charlotte High School: Dr. Delores Lee, principal Sharday Black, 9th grader

Phillip O. Berry Academy of Technology: Dr. David Baldaia, principal Myranda Dorsey, 12th grader Shatina Morgan, 11 th grader

Raven Monroe, an 11 th grader at Garinger High School, led those present and in the viewing audience in the pledge of allegiance and spoke to the December character trait, 'caring.' Raven said when she was in the sixth grade at Northridge Middle School she joined the Best Friends Program where girls support each other and become successful, strong, young women. It is a sisterhood that is based on respect, good character, and caring about each other. Now that she is a junior at Garinger High School, she has remained active in the Best Friends Diamond Girls Leadership Program. She is fortunate that this program has brought caring people into her life who have helped her to achieve excellence and reach her goals. Raven said during the holiday season let us remember that a caring heart is the best gift that we can give. You never know how kindness and encouragement will influence someone's life.

Chairperson White introduced the coordinator for the Best Friends Program, Diane Glover, and invited family members to stand and be recognized.

2 of 30 - Regular Board Meeting, December 14, 2004 B. Election of Board Chairperson and Vice Chairperson

Chairperson White said this item is the nomination and election of the Board's Chairperson and Vice Chairperson for the next year. Chairperson White called upon Dr. Pughsley to conduct the nominations. Dr. Pughsley said the office to be filled is that of Chairperson for the Board of Education and opened the floor for nominations. Ms. Leake said this is an opportunity for the Board to nominate those persons who would lead us in the next year. She said she was honored to nominate Joe White as Chairperson and Kit Cramer as Vice Chairperson

Ms. Leake moved, and it was seconded by Mr. Dunlap, to nominate Joe White as Chairperson and Kit Cramer as Vice Chairperson.

Dr. Pughsley noted that he had asked for a nomination for Chairperson but he would accept both nominations if it was acceptable to the Board.

Dr. Kindberg moved that the nominations be closed, and it was seconded by Ms. Griffin.

The Board voted 9 to 0 to approve the nominations.

Dr. Pughsley congratulated Chairperson White and Ms. Cramer on their appointments. Chairperson White thanked Dr. Pughsley and the Board. He said he would make additional remarks during the Board report section. He invited Ms. Cramer to make comments. Ms. Cramer thanked the Board for the appointment and said she would work very hard for everyone.

C. Adoption of Agenda

Chairperson White asked that the contract for the Board attorney be added to the agenda. Chairperson White noted to the public that item III. D. (Recommend approval of student assignment boundary change) was an item that the Board approved at the November 23rd Regular Board meeting and Mr. Gauvreau, Dr. Kindberg, and Ms. McGarry asked that the boundary decisions be readdressed. Chairperson White reported Dr. Kindberg would discuss the Community House Road Middle School boundaries; Ms. McGarry would discuss the Old Farm neighborhood school boundaries; and Mr. Gauvreau would discuss his vote at that meeting on the Community House Road Middle School boundaries.

Ms. McGarry moved to adopt the agenda as amended, seconded by Ms. Cramer, and the Board voted 9 to 0 to approve the adoption of the agenda as amended.

D. Recognition of graduates of the EquityPlus Master's Program

Chairperson White called upon Ms. Leake to present the recognition. Ms. Leake said the Board was honored to recognize twenty CMS employees who have graduated from the EquityPlus Master's Program. For approximately three years, they have spent one or two nights a week in class during the school year with additional classes in the summer. In addition, they have spent countless homework hours. Their hard work has seen them successfully complete this program with a Master of Education degree in Reading, Marketing Education, or Middle and Secondary Education. Many of these graduates participated in cohort groups from Winthrop University but others attended North Carolina State University and The University of North Carolina at Charlotte. Approximately 150 participants in the EquityPlus Master's Program will continue their studies this year. Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools currently partners with Winthrop University, The University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Pfeiffer University, and Queens University. Ms. Leake said the

3 of 30 - Regular Board Meeting, December 14, 2004 Board was pleased to honor those who have successfully completed their graduate studies. Ms. Leake introduced the graduates as follows:

Karen Alpers, Master of Education in Reading, Winthrop University; Shannon L. Batchelor, Master of Education in Reading, Winthrop University; Jennifer J. Curran, Master of Education in Reading, Winthrop University; Amanda K. Jones, Master of Education in Reading, Winthrop University; Barbara A. Landes, Master of Education in Reading, Winthrop University; Lisa M. Larotonda, Master of Education in Reading, Winthrop University; Valeria Ruff-Kesler, Master of Education in Reading, Winthrop University; Tara M. Zaremba, Master of Education in Reading, Winthrop University; John D. Boothe, Master of Education in Marketing Education, North Carolina State University; Heather A. Plichta, Master of Education in Middle Grades & Secondary Education, University of North Carolina at Charlotte; Shonja M. Alexander, Master of Education in Reading, Winthrop University; Kristi M. Halstead, Master of Education in Reading, Winthrop University; Marcia L. Lewis, Master of Education in Reading, Winthrop University; Loretta A. Pellechia, Master of Education in Reading, Winthrop University; Bronwyn P. Roberts, Master of Education in Reading, Winthrop University; Brittany L. Uriarte, Master of Education in Reading, Winthrop University; Janel H. Williams, Master of Education in Reading, Winthrop University; Gayle L. Wood, Master of Education in Reading, Winthrop University; Tisha R. Perkins, Master of Education in Reading, Winthrop University; and Karen Sanders, Master of Education in Elementary Education, University of North Carolina at Charlotte.

Ms. Leake introduced Dr. Barbara R. Blackburn, Coordinator of the Middle Grades Education Program at Winthrop University, and Kathy Auger, Director of CMS Compensation and Benefits, to make comments. Ms. Auger congratulated the graduates. She reported this was part of the EquityPlus Program. Benefits of this program are CMS pays their tuition and the graduates will receive a 10% increase in their salaries. Ms. Auger said that many of these graduates met together in a cohort at one of our schools, and faculty from Winthrop University would meet them at the school to teach the class. Ms. Auger said CMS now has about 100 graduates through this program and there are about 200 participants in cohorts at Winthrop, UNC-Charlotte, Queens, and Pfeiffer. Ms. Leake said this was part of an initiative that Dr. Pughsley began in an effort to ensure that CMS has excellent teachers working with our students. She thanked Dr. Pughsley for his efforts in providing CMS with quality teachers. Ms. Leake congratulated the teachers on their accomplishments and wished them much success in the future.

E. Recognition of Gold Certificate Award Winners in the Financial Secretarv Recognition Program

Chairperson White called upon Dr. Pughsley to present the recognition. Dr. Pughsley invited Shelia Shirley, Chief Financial Officer, to make comments and introductions. Ms. Shirley said CMS was honored to recognize the Gold Certificate Award Winners in the Financial Secretary Recognition Program. This program was implemented last year to recognize financial secretaries that consistently meet established performance measures for financial procedures and payroll reporting. Ms. Shirley noted that financial secretaries handle a variety of financial transactions at the schools on a daily basis. It is extremely important to CMS that those financial transactions are handled in accordance with the established procedures as well as within deadlines as this allows the Finance Department to consolidate financial data in an accurate and timely manner. CMS also realizes the financial secretaries often have a variety of tasks and juggle many tasks and responsibilities at the school site. Ms. Shirley said these award winners have consistently met the performance measures of the Recognition Program. The two key areas in this program are financial procedures and payroll reporting. The awards are based upon meeting the performance measures in each area. Financial secretaries who consistently meet the criteria for twelve months will receive a Gold Award, for eleven months a Silver Award, and for ten months a

4 of 30 - Regular Board Meeting, December 14, 2004 Bronze Award. All the winners were recognized at a luncheon during the Annual Financial Secretaries Conference that took place this past summer. Ms. Shirley reported the Silver and Bronze Certificate recipients received their certificates in the fall. Ms. Shirley said the Gold Certificate recipients received a certificate from the Board of Education and a gold certificate from the Superintendent earlier today in recognition of their 2003-2004 accomplishments. Ms. Shirley thanked the financial secretaries for doing an excellent job. Ms. Shirley introduced LuEllen Richard, Executive Director of Accounting, to announce the Gold Certificate Winners. Ms. Richard introduced the financial secretaries who had met the district's performance measures in either payroll reporting or financial procedures. They were Lorraine Alexander, Aza Alford­ Robinson, Elizabeth Anderson, Carol Arant, Patricia Bailey, Sherrie Bailey, Terry Barbee, Carolyn Barfield, Cheryl Beckles, Sandy Bevil, Donna Biggs, Brenda Brasher, Bronda Brown, Mary Caldwell, Judy Cochran, Patrina Collins, Kory Formon, Sueann Fusselman, Angela Gayle, Linda Geer, Deborah Grier, Mickey Grindstaff, Lisa Hall, Janet Hambright, Judy Hamilton, Phyllis Hammers, Bobbie Huitt, Donna Huntley, Wanda Jaraba, Sylvia Jefferies, Cortella Johnson, Helen Johnson, Laura Koteles, Nicole Lane, Cathy Leeson, Regina Looper, Helen Maser, Sherry Maxwell, Brenda McCarver, Brukie McClain, Katie McElwain, Le'Etta Mitchell, Ann Morris, Becky Neely, Carolyn Perkins, Julie Porter, Deborah Pulley, Melissa Reeves, Denise Roseborough, Barbara Sammons, Phyllis Sidebottom, Karen Straub, Cindy Thompson, Lashunda Tillman, Melba Tinch, Pam Waters, Catherine Williams, Lynette Wilson, and Donna Woodrow.

Ms. Richard introduced the financial secretaries who had met both the financial and payroll reporting procedures. They were Cheryl Durand, Nancy Flowe, Lauretta Frankel, Mary Jane Hinkle, Karen Hodgin, Yvonne McWhirter, Robin Murray, Mary Helen Ormsby, JoAnn Pinkerton, Dixie Shaw, and Diane Walter.

Dr. Kindberg recognized and thanked the financial secretaries for their efforts.

Chairperson White recognized a Boy Scout Troop that was in the audience. He introduced Bill Hyland, the troop's leader, and invited him to introduce the troop. Mr. Hyland said this was Troop 49 from Back Creek Presbyterian Church. He said all the scouts were CMS students and were working on their Citizenship in the Community Merit Badge. He said he was one of the assistants and Chip Wampler is the Scout Master. Mr. Wampler has been the Scout Master of this troop for over thirty years and is the Senior Scout Master in their council.

F. Recognition of November 2004 Building Services Quality Customer Service Maintenance Employee of the Month

Item deleled. The nominated employee could not attend the meeting.

G. Recognition of November 2004 Building Service Quality Customer Services Custodial Employee of the Month

Ilem deleled. The nominated employee could not attend the meeting.

Mr. Dunlap reported this is the section of our meeting where employees are recognized. He has asked several times that CMS consider recognitions for some of the other groups of CMS employees. He noted the groups that are routinely recognized have somebody sponsoring them for their recognitions. CMS has other secretaries who are not financial secretaries and they also should be considered for recognitions for their hard work and contributions to CMS. He believes the permanent part-time employees of CMS should also be recognized. He would like this group to be considered for benefits and other incentives that are provided to full-time employees. He

5 of 30 - Regular Board Meeting, December 14, 2004 asked Dr. Pughsley and the Human Resources Department, as they prepare for the budget process, to do an assessment of these employees to be considered for additional compensation and benefits.

H. Community Report • Report from the Equity Committee

Chairperson White called upon Dr. Pughsley for the report. Dr. Pughsley said this was a preliminary report from the Equity Committee. Dr. Pughsley invited Julian Wright, Chairperson of the Equity Committee, to present the report. Mr. Wright said he was not presenting the Third Annual Equity Committee Report. He said the committee has worked very hard to prepare this report but it is not as thorough as the reports that have been presented to the Board in February for the past two years. This Committee will continue to work on this report. He noted that staff and Ms. Woods, Board's Equity Committee Liaison, asked the Committee to review their work since last February and present suggestions, prior to the budget process, of specific ways spending can enhance equity. This presentation will include a brief preface of the report that will be presented in February. Mr. Wright said, "As to the issue of equity, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools is not there yet." Equity is the condition in which all schools have the resources, teachers, materials, and facilities that are needed to enable each child attending that school to achieve that child's full academic potential. Mr. Wright said, "When the resources are spread across the district in Charlotte-Mecklenburg to be able to do that, we will tell you that you have obtained equity." Mr. Wright presented a comparison from the last school year of third graders who spent the entire year at an EquityPlus II school and those who spent the year at a non­ EquityPlus II school. The results indicated the students at an EquityPlus II school performed math at grade level or above 79.8% of the time and reading 70.9% of the time. The students at a non-EquityPlus II school performed math 92.3% of the time and reading 88.2% of the time. Mr. Wright said it is good that the numbers tend to get smaller as the students continue to go through the system but it is unacceptable that the disparity is still that large in third grade. This is one example that shows equity has not yet been achieved. Mr. Wright reviewed the Committee's February 2003 suggestions for spending money to enhance equity. They were as follows:

» Baseline Instructional Supplies » Teacher compensation » Teacher development dollars » Parental Involvement » Full utilization of existing resources » Talent Development Programs » Programs for at-risk children that do not fall into a neat category

Mr. Wright reviewed the areas to focus spending money to best achieve equity from the February 2004 Report. They were as follows:

» Leadership Training/Development for school administrators » Attracting and retaining quality faculty » Bricks and mortar spending » Instructional Supplies » The need for more international outreach » Parental Leadership Development » The need to develop community trust

Mr. Wright said as a result of the past ten months of touring additional schools; getting reports

6 of 30 - Regular Board Meeting. December 14. 2004 from staff; reading and digesting that information; reviewing the data; and talking with students, teachers, and parents, the Committee suggested seven areas with specific examples of how to spend money in the next budget process to help best achieve equity. They were as follows:

» Instructional Supplies • The Committee remains concerned that all schools do not have the baseline level of supplies required to effectively teach the students that they have. » Student Achievement • Spend more money on the Bright Beginnings Program because this program works. • Review the Talent Development Program. Consider spending more money targeted for testing the students to qualify for the program; develop improved testing procedures; improve the curriculum; and hire additional teachers so that the current Talent Development teachers in place are not scurrying from school to school and stretched thin. • Address the decline in student achievement in the 6th and 9th grades. From an equity perspective, the Committee is concerned because the ability to recover from achievement losses in subsequent grades is more limited in EquityPlus II classrooms and EquityPlus II schools. Ask the Board of County Commissioners for additional funds to expand the EquityPlus II Program. The Committee is not sure if the EquityPlus II Program is a magic bullet and it does enough at the schools where it is implemented but it is better to have this program than to not have it. Expand the template to have smaller classrooms, provide more teachers at those schools, and move more schools into the range of qualifying for EquityPlus II resources. Provide funds to the schools that appear to be trending towards becoming an EquityPlus II school to help alleviate low-test scores. When a school looses its EquityPlus II status, allow the resources and program to be phased-out. » Bricks and Mortar. Areas of concern for funding are as follows: • Cochrane Middle School (Noted problems are sewage in the halls and flooding in the basement classrooms). • The Seven Critical Needs Schools from 2002. • Facilities at Bain Elementary (Part of a building is condemned). • Facilities at Montclaire Elementary School. • Facilities at Hopewell High School (Need additional security for the 28 mobiles to enhance the safety of students, faculty, and equipment of those units). » Retention of Quality Teachers • Improve pay supplements, particularly at properly staffed EquityPlus II schools. • Improve discipline. (Use positive reinforcement programs). • Improve teacher training and preparation for the classroom. • Fund more school nurses and other support positions. • Put a teacher in every classroom at Hopewell High School. » Appreciation for Diversity • Recruit more bilingual teachers and staff at more schools. • Incentives to attract the right teacher demographics. • Teach Mecklenburg Scholarship. Provide scholarships to CMS high school graduates who commit to come back to teach in the system. » Parent and Community Involvement • Funding and training for parent advocate positions. • Flexibility in efficient use of funding for the parent advocate positions (Cochrane Middle School and Montclaire Elementary School use this effectively). » Development of School Leadership • Funding and personal development for principals.

7 of 30 - Regular Board Meeting, December 14, 2004 • Increase principals' discretionary spending amounts. • Recognition for exceptional approaches to achieving equity by principals.

Mr. Wright said it is a huge task to acquire additional funds to spend on equity and the other needs of this school system. This Committee is very aware of the changing demographics in the district. There is a wide disparity between the number of Caucasian people that live in Mecklenburg County and the percentage of Caucasian students in the schools of CMS. The differences are not as great in the Hispanic/Latino and Asian populations but it is pronounced in the African American community. Mr. Wright suggested that CMS must persuade taxpayers, County Commissioners, and parents that the spending needed for equity is worth the investment in our community's children. They suggest that the best means of such persuasion lies in linking that investment in children to increased achievement for all students and the advantages of a better-educated citizenry in every part of Mecklenburg County. The Equity Committee was pleased to be able to work with and serve the Board. They look forward to developing another report for the Board that should be completed in February. A discussion with Board members followed.

Mr. Gauvreau asked if any committee members supported less spending? Mr. Wright believes the committee supports the pressing needs of the school system and the way to meet those needs and solve those problems is with additional resources. These funds should be spent efficiently, smartly, and with transparency and accountability. This committee cannot provide the specific amount of funds that will be needed. Mr. Dunlap reported as a part of the lawsuit, CMS is still required to report on its progress as it relates to equity. He said CMS is still not there. He hopes that the new Board of County Commissioners will understand what that commitment is in terms of achieving equity and will support CMS with additional funds. This impacts the entire district. Mr. Dunlap encouraged the Board to have the political will to challenge the County Commissioners to look for ways to help CMS achieve equity for all children in Mecklenburg County. Ms. Griffin thanked the committee for the report and believes they will have an important role as CMS begins its Comprehensive Review of the Student Assignment Plan. She hopes the Board members and the Equity Committee can have a joint meeting to discuss the issues. Ms. Cramer supports this presentation prior to the budget discussions because it is important that the Board make a connection between the strategy to be employed to improve student achievement and the budget. Ms. Cramer said many of the items presented were discussed at the recent Board Retreat. She believes CMS should make a connection with the community between those strategies and the investment that needs to be made with a tie-in to student achievement. Ms. McGarry believes the points of the report are very valid. She believes the acknowledgement of the future is very important because we need to know what to do now in order to achieve the goals. She believes this is a way of setting the priorities and if this is what we want to achieve, we must use the money that we have and spend it in a better way. Dr. Kindberg thanked the committee for visiting schools throughout the district to provide a total and balanced picture of what we are dealing with and acknowledging this is a community-wide issue that we all need to embrace. Dr. Kindberg noted the suggestion by the committee to find the resources for any programs that CMS' own teachers believe are effective in improving the retention of quality teachers. Dr. Kindberg believes it is the teachers that make the difference and CMS must provide the resources and the facilities. Ms. Woods believes the Equity Committee has a key role in the student assignment and budget deliberations. Ms. Woods mentioned specific items that appeared in this report that come up often in Board discussions. Ms. Woods thanked the committee for recognizing the critical need areas of CMS. Ms. Woods talked about the following issues:

~ The 20th day count and what happens when there are additional students. Ms. Woods

8 of 30 - Regular Board Meeting, Oecember 14. 2004 believes there should be a discretionary fund or some ability to be able to put additional staffing and resources at the schools that have received additional students after the 20th day count. She hopes this will be reflected in the budget. »> Talent Development testin~ in the language of the student. th »> The dip effects at 6 and 9 h grade. »> Additional EquityPlus schools. Ms. Woods asked for a list of the number of schools that are 60% and over free-and-reduced lunch that have never been designated as an EquityPlus school. She also requested a list of schools that are 50% free-and-reduced lunch that are trending towards EquityPlus. »> Cochrane Middle School. She noted that the situation for this school is not acceptable and the sewage problem should be corrected quickly. »> The Seven Critical Need Schools from 2002. She noted the list of schools were Cochrane Middle School, Garinger High School, North Mecklenburg High School, Long Creek Elementary School, Alexander Middle School, Alexander Graham Middle School, and Sedgefield Middle School. She urged the Finance, Capital, & Facilities Committee to present a proposal to the Board on how these urgent needs are going to be addressed. »> Mobile units need to have the same equipment that is necessary for any other classroom. »> The need for additional security and counselors at overcrowded schools. She asked that CMS review staff allocations when student enrollment increases. »> The Personnel Committee will review the report regarding the attraction and retention of teachers, and the balance of teachers. She believes this has a lot to do with the inequity issues. »> Multicultural issues. She would like this to include training for teachers so they can be effective in classrooms with a variety of students, additional bilingual staff to help work with parents, and the recruitment of teachers from a variety of backgrounds.

Ms. Woods wanted to highlight these items because this committee has done so much work and the gravity of their suggestions should not be overlooked. These items should be considered in the next budget process. Ms. Leake noted this report discusses the Budget for 2005-2006 and where specific spending can enhance equity. Ms. Leake said in some situations funds are necessary to do what needs to be done. There is no teacher, principal, or anyone else in this district that will work for free. Ms. Leake said the quality of educational opportunities that students receive within CMS is still determined too much by the make-up of the school's student population. The quality of educational opportunity differs too much from school to school throughout this system and this should not be the case. Ms. Leake said the CMS testing system glaringly demonstrates that students in EquityPlus II schools do not achieve as well as their peers at non-EquityPlus II schools. CMS has stated many times that they need quality teachers in every school. She recently received a report that said CMS has more National Board Certified Teachers than any other district in the state of North Carolina. Ms. Leake asked why doesn't CMS encourage those teachers to go where they are needed the most? She expressed concern for this across the district. She believes there are valid reasons to explain the discrepancies in test scores between populations. To have equitable opportunities to achieve, all CMS students must have sufficient resources to meet their particular needs. Every child's needs are different and every child learns in a different manner. Ms. Leake asked what are we going to do as a community to provide quality and equitable education for every child across this district? She encouraged everyone to support whatever is necessary to provide a quality education for every child in this district. Mr. Wright, in honor of the boy scouts in the audience, said the Equity Committee endeavors to be trustworthy, loyal, helpful, friendly, courteous, kind, obedient, cheerful, thrifty, brave, clean, and reverend. Mr. Wright said it is great to know that what they write does get read. He thanked the Board for the work they do. Mr. Gauvreau noted the committee had spent a lot of time with the school system, staff, Board members, and they were

9 of 30 - Regular Board Meeting, Oecember 14. 2004 exposed to all the system's information. He asked Mr. Wright if this was a question of just getting more money or did CMS have a management problem? Mr. Wright noted there are many instances where money is not spent as efficiently and wisely as it needs to be spent and the resources that CMS has could be spent more efficiently to achieve more equity and more student achievement than results indicate.

II. REQUESTS FROM THE PUBLIC

Tom Crespo is the chairperson for the School Leadership Team at Hawk Ridge Elementary School and a concerned parent. He expressed concern about the recent Board approval to send 5th graders to the new Community House Road Middle School. He was very disappointed how this plan was communicated to the public. This one-year plan has too many unknowns for anybody to be comfortable with. He noted two future elementary schools (Flat Branch and Elon Park) were scheduled to open in the southern part of the county. He said Flat Branch has already been funded through COPs and should be ready to open in the Fall of 2007. This school will not provide much overcrowding relief to Hawk Ridge due to location and the new Centex development. The Hawk Ridge students are depending on the Elon Park site to relieve overcrowding. He said there is no money available for that school. He said the problem is lack of construction of new schools in the area. He asked the Board to request emergency funds from the Board of County Commissioners to build Elon Park as soon as possible. This is an emergency and these two new schools need to be built and opened by the Fall of 2007. He asked the Board to plan ahead and build schools with growth in mind to alleviate this situation in the future. This area needs stability for our students because they are our future.

Linn Taylor believes CMS punishes students and causes them to fail for being sick. Mr. Taylor reported that a student excelled academically, scored high on SATs, was recruited by colleges, made up his assignments, and participated in extra-curricular activities but was considered absent too much. Student appeals were denied. Although the student made up all assignments and passed tests, he was required to make up classroom time.

Blanche Penn asked the Board members to not suspend students but to help and work with them. She is an advocate for parents. She is very concerned about the CMS process for parents regarding out-of-school suspensions and the appeal process to the principals and Board.

Carol Hall represented Old Farm neighborhood or "Old Island." She asked the Board to support Ms. McGarry's motion because it is the right thing to do. This motion is not asking for special treatment. This will correct an oversight made by the Board last year. She asked the Board to make this correction now to protect the rising middle school students. This will allow those students to go to school with their neighbors and friends. This affects a very small group of students and to not approve this motion will drastically impact their educational experience. The current student assignment runs counter to the CMS established policies on student assignment; travel for students is through heavily congested traffic; and this area is left as an "island." This neighborhood is closer to Alexander Graham Middle School and Myers Park High School than to McClintock Middle School and East Mecklenburg High School. She asked the Board to revise Old Farm's student assignment.

Denise Summers represented her daughter who attends Phillip O. Berry Academy of Technology. She expressed concern about the lockdowns and bomb threats. She is concerned for the safety of students. She stated this school has had six to eight bomb threats. During these threats, students are treated as if they are in jail, must be escorted to the restroom, and must stand in the cafeteria in the morning. This situation puts students in an insecure environment and causes

10 of 30 - Regular Board Meeting, December 14, 2004 them to be distracted in their studies.

Donna Elyea is an actively involved school volunteer and a parent of four children. She spoke on behalf of the many parents in the Hawk Ridge, Endhaven, and Jay Robinson communities who share her opinion. They were very surprised at the recent change and they would never have preferred a reassignment for their children. They respectively asked the Board to make a modification to the recently adopted proposal regarding the opening of Community House Road Middle School next fall. They asked that the Board grandfather the yth graders along with the 8th graders; open the school as a 5th and 6th grade school in 2005, progressing to a 5th , 6th , 7th in 2006; and 6th thru 8th in 2007 which would be the year that the two new planned elementary schools are slated to open. This would continue the relief of the overcrowding at both Hawk Ridge and Endhaven elementary schools. They believe this is a very feasible option.

Thom Tillis provided information to the Board regarding what is happening at Hopewell High School. He is a parent of two children at this school and a Town Commissioner for the Town of Cornelius. He has met with many parents and they share similar concerns. He has met with the Student Leadership Team, the principal, and some CMS officials, and they have not received adequate answers to their concerns. Some of these concerns also were expressed in the Equity Report. They created a survey that asked five simple questions and have received many responses, particularly from the parents of Hopewell High School. They expressed concern over safety for the students and class discipline problems. Additional problems mentioned were classes in December still without a full time, qualified teacher; Spanish classes with substitutes who "No hablo Espanol"; and a number of other classes where the students are not getting the level of service that they deserve. They will share the results of this survey with the Board, CMS administration, and other parents. They have shared this information with the teachers and administrators at Hopewell High School and have told them that they know that they are a part of the solution and that they do a lot of positive things. Mr. Tillis said there is clearly a problem. There are problems with the service that the children are receiving and the tools that the teachers are being provided. These problems must be addressed. They hope these results will be reviewed and corrective steps can be addressed.

III. ACTION ITEMS

A. Recommend approval of appointment of administrative personnel

Chairperson White called upon Dr. Pughsley for the recommendation. Dr. Pughsley presented the following transfers and administrative appointments. Dr. Pughsley noted the transfers were related to the new schools that are anticipated to open next year and did not require Board approval. These principals will move to their new sites in February to begin preparations for the next school year.

Transfers: » Gifford Lockley named principal at Community House Road Middle School. Mr. Lockley has a Master of Education, School Administration, from Stephen F. Austin State University, and a Bachelor of Arts, Music Education, from the University of Miami. Mr. Lockley is currently the principal at Eastover Elementary School. » Leslie M. McCarley named principal at Chantilly Montessori. Dr. McCarley has a Doctor of Education, Educational Administration, from the University of North Carolina-Charlotte; an Educational Specialist, Educational Administration, and a Master of Education, School Administration, from East Carolina University, Greenville, NC; and a Bachelor of Science, Elementary Education, from Carroll College, Waukesha, WI. Dr. McCarley is currently the

11 of 30 - Regular Board Meeting. December 14. 2004 principal at Shamrock Gardens Elementary School. » Keven Paige named principal at Ranson Road Elementary School. Mr. Paige has a Master of Education, School Administration, from the University of North Carolina­ Charlotte, and Bachelor of Arts, Social Studies, from Johnson C. Smith University, Charlotte, NC. Mr. Paige is currently the principal at Morehead Elementary School. » Dr. Mark Robertson named principal at Lambeth Road Middle School. Dr. Robertson has a Doctor of Education, School Administration, and a Master of Education, School Administration, from the University of North Carolina-Charlotte; and a Bachelor of Science, Psychology, from Wake Forest University, Raleigh, NC. Dr. Robertson is currently the principal at Barringer Academic Center.

Appointments: » Vanessa Ashford named principal at Eastover Elementary School. Ms. Ashford has a Master of Education, School Administration, from the University of North Carolina­ Charlotte; a Master of Education, Learning Disabilities, from East Carolina University, Greenville, NC; and a Bachelor of Science, Intermediate Education, from Elizabeth City State University, Elizabeth City, NC. Ms. Ashford was formerly the assistant principal at Hawk Ridge Elementary School. » Crystal Cooper named principal at Morehead Elementary School. Ms. Cooper has a Master of Science, Educational Administration, from the North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, and a Bachelor of Science, Learning Disabilities, from Winston Salem State University. Ms. Cooper was formerly the assistant prinCipal at Newell Elementary School. » Janice Davidson named prinCipal at Barringer Academic Center. Ms. Davidson has a Master of Education, Curriculum & Instruction and School Administration, from the University of North Carolina-Charlotte, and a Bachelor of Arts, Music Education, North Carolina Central University, Durham, NC.

Upon motion by Dr. Kindberg, and seconded by Ms. Cramer, the Board voted 9 to 0 to approve the personnel appointments.

B. Recommend approval of proposed 2005-2006 calendar

Chairperson White called upon Dr. Pughsley to present the recommendation. Dr. Pughsley reported that background information on the development of the calendars and three drafts were presented to the Board at the November 23rd Regular Board Meeting. He reminded the Board that the development of the calendar for this year was a challenge because of recent legislative changes. He explained some of the changes as a result of the new legislation. This included 215 total days instead of 220; 15 teacher workdays instead of 20; start date no sooner than August 25th ; end date no later than June 10th ; 5 protected teacher workdays instead of no protected teacher workdays; Veteran's Day must be on November 11th; and at least 7 optional days for accumulated leave. He said a preference pole was conducted on the three drafts and an excellent response was received with representation from every school. He said Calendar A received 283 votes; Calendar B received 924 votes; and Calendar C received 3,601 votes. Information was also gathered school by school and the results showed that no schools favored Calendar A; 7 schools favored Calendar B; and 137 schools favored Calendar C. The overwhelming response favored draft Calendar C but Dr. Pughsley had some concerns about this calendar and he believed it required some modifications. Dr. Pughsley felt Calendar C was not sensitive to Muslim and Jewish religious holidays but it was a strong instructional calendar with a spring break in March; longer stretches with no interruption; and a winter break with 9 days. He stated Calendars A and B did not provide for a 9-day winter break. He stated the modified

12 of 30 - Regular Board Meeting, Oecember 14, 2004 Calendar C does recognize religious diversity and the way it is structured may minimize staff th absenteeism. He expressed a concern for election day (November 8 ) in the modified Calendar C. He noted in past years students were out of school on election day but in the modified calendar students would be in school. He believes there is sufficient lead·time to make appropriate accommodations for that date. He noted even with students attending school on this date there was still strong support for Calendar C and the modified Calendar C. Dr. Pughsley said they have checked with the Board of Elections to get a feel for that election day and noted that next year would not be a presidential election year which would be helpful. Dr. Pughsley reported there would be strong planning to overcome any barriers that might arise with students in school on that date, especially as it relates to safety. Dr. Pughsley said his recommendation for approval was the modified version of Calendar C.

Upon motion by Ms. Leake to approve modified Calendar C, and seconded by Dr. Kindberg, a discussion with Board members followed. Ms. Griffin said she has received parent and teacher concerns for each of the calendars. She stated most of the concerns were related to the new legislation and not having two weeks at Christmas. She said teachers have stated the five workdays at the beginning of the school year were not really necessary and they would prefer fewer days at the beginning. Dr. Pughsley invited Dr. Mary Martin, Calendar Committee Chairperson, to respond to Board member's questions. Dr. Martin explained how the days were planned. She said the calendar took into consideration the number of week days there are between the day school is required to start and the day school is required to end, subtracting out 180 days. There are about 27 days remaining. There are annual leave, holidays, and workdays that are added to this. She reported there were eight additional days that cannot fit in the calendar. Five of those days have been placed before school starts and three days at the end of the year to accommodate graduation. Mr. Dunlap thanked Dr. Pughsley for presenting the modifications. He said he was very concerned with the original Calendar C because it did not recognize the religious holidays. He would not have been able to support that calendar but with Dr. Pughsley's modifications it is now acceptable. Mr. Dunlap noted allowing employees to participate in the preference pole was great. He expressed a concern for Kid's Voting because it typically takes place on election day. He hopes the community will pull together and help to deal with this concern. He believes if this calendar is adopted it will take more of a commitment from volunteers to ensure that Kid's Voting goes forward as it has in the past. Mr. Gauvreau believes this proposal is the right choice but he believes it is a mistake to have the schools open on election day. He noted November 4th was a protected day. He suggested that an excused absence be offered to the very small number of Muslim students in the system. He believes election day should be taken care of and this is a very common sense approach because it would deal with 95% of the school system and this should deal with the majority.

Mr. Gauvreau moved to change November 4th from a protected school day to a normal school day and assign that protected day instead to election day, and seconded by Ms. McGarry, a discussion followed. Dr. Kindberg asked how is a protected day defined in the terminology of this calendar? Dr. Martin said a protected day is for the use of the classroom teacher to complete instructional duties in addition to their normal work. The protected day (in the bold print on the calendar) is required to be held at the end of the quarter. The first quarter ends on October 31't. This calendar tries to place the day close to the end of the quarter and protect the day for teachers to do the paperwork and things that are required of them at the end of the quarter. Dr. Kindberg asked if November 4th was one of the religious holidays that Dr. Pughsley mentioned? Dr. Martin said it was one of the Muslim holidays. It is one of the days towards the end of Ramadan and is one of their holiest days. The two days the committee was given to th consider were November 4th or January 10 They considered placing the recognition of this day on November 4th because it was at the end of the week and it would allow teachers to work on

13 of 30 - Regular Board Meeting, December 14, 2004 attendance issues that sometimes occur when there is a day off in the middle of the week. Ms. Woods asked what is the number or percent of students who are Muslim? Dr. Martin said there was not accurate information on this but Rahman Khan, Executive Coordinator of Diversity, has indicated there are significant numbers of Jewish and Muslim students within CMS. Ms. Woods also has concerns for election day but could not support Mr. Gauvreau's amendment for two reasons. She believes it is important to think of the holiest of days in the different religions and th she is concerned for student achievement if students are out November 8 and November 11th. She does not believe this would be an educationally sound proposal. Ms. Woods noted that election day has been an opportunity for students to volunteer with voting and help with Kid's Voting. She asked Dr. Pughsley if this was going to be taken into consideration? Dr. Pughsley stated he was willing to work with Kid's Voting because it is an educational process. Ms. Leake is concerned about election day. She noted election day has occurred with students attending school. She said this could be done if it was done appropriately. She expressed concern about the religious holidays and noted she is in favor of recognizing those religious days. Ms. Leake encouraged the Board to do the right thing for all religious faiths. Ms. McGarry is concerned about election day. She believes to have no school on election day could be turned into an opportunity and this day could provide educational opportunities for students. She believes the number of Muslim students and teachers is very important. She believes CMS has a policy that states if you want to attend the church or synagogue of your choosing, you will get an excused absence. She suggested this be done with the November 4th date, and take the November 8th election day and make that a holiday. Ms. Cramer supports the modified version. She believes because it is not a presidential election year this can work. She suggested that it would be a great opportunity to educate and involve students in the election process. She supports students attending school on election day and at the same time this will respect another religious day. Mr. Dunlap is concerned because there is too much indifference to people who are different by minimizing that information with numbers or the reference that this does not impact many people. He stated often there is indifference shown to children with disabilities or children with a sexual preference and now there is talk about indifference to religions. Mr. Dunlap believes Dr. Pughsley's recommendation is a win-win situation. Mr. Dunlap noted that because the Board members are elected officials, they each are probably concerned about election day. Mr. Dunlap stated, as Ms. Leake said, that in the past they have had election day and students in school on the same day. He believes, as Ms. Cramer stated, it could be an opportunity for students to participate in democracy. This could be an opportunity to have more students participate in Kid's Voting than ever before. He believes this Board should show this community that we are concerned about not only all of the students in CMS but all the people in the community as well. Mr. Dunlap believes the Board members should be mindful and careful of what they say and how they say it because people are listening and some statements could show insensitivity. He believes this could be an opportunity to bridge this community together by adopting this calendar. Mr. Gauvreau believes this is not indifference but a common sense approach. He does not care about the election but believes the public does and they do not want to see 1,200 school buses doubled parked in the morning and late afternoon. The public wants to go to the polls and CMS should be able to accommodate that. This would not be the best approach. Mr. Gauvreau believes an excused absence for the November 4th date would make much more sense for the small number of students that may be Muslim. Mr. Gauvreau believes this is being made overly complicated and his suggestion is one of efficiency and being mindful of the election. Mr. Gauvreau believes this day can simply be made an excused absence day. Ms. Leake asked that the question be called. Chairperson White stated he would like to make a few comments. He stated he was probably the oldest Presbyterian in this room and he could not accept a calendar that did not recognize the religious diversity of this community. It is not right to allow a student to miss a day of school because of their religious beliefs when the state legislation requires students to attend school 180 days. He expressed concern for the questions and comments regarding the

14 of 30 - Regular Board Meeting. December 14. 2004 number of students this may affect and how holy is this holiday for them. Chairperson White said the law requires that every child go to school for 180 days and it would not be fair that some students should miss school because of their religious beliefs. Chairperson White reminded everyone that this calendar did not begin because of education or religious holidays but began because of vacation. He stated this was a result of the changes made by the state legislature and encouraged those who disapprove to let them know they prefer the authority of the calendar to be with the school district. He noted the two longest periods of holidays in the calendar the majority of those days have nothing to do with education or religion. They are about vacation. He also remembers many years teaching students in school on election day. He said this works but it does require work on the part of the school system and transportation.

The Board voted 2 to 7 on the amendment by Mr. Gauvreau to change November 4th from a protected school day to a normal school day and assign that protected day instead to election day. Ms. McGarry and Mr. Gauvreau voted in favor of the amendment. Mr. White, Ms. Cramer, Ms. Leake, Mr. Dunlap, Ms. Woods, Ms. Griffin, and Dr. Kindberg voted against the amendment.

Chairperson White stated the Board would now discuss the modified version of Calendar C as recommended by the Superintendent. Ms. Woods said she was concerned about two things as it relates to the educational benefits of this calendar. Ms. Woods expressed concern about parent conferences. It is important to have opportunities for parent conferences and they should occur each quarter. She is concerned how parent conferences can be scheduled with this calendar. Dr. Martin responded that it has been recommended to the schools that they use both the th October 13 and November 4th days for scheduling parent conferences. Educational plans for many of the low-performing students are developed early in the school year and it is important to have those conferences as soon as possible. They can be done on October 13th for those families not celebrating Yom Kippur and the others done on November 4th. Ms. Woods asked if CMS could consider designating on the calendar that those dates are parent conference days as well as indicate the days for the second and third quarter. Dr. Pughsley said this could be considered. Ms. Woods also expressed a concern about report cards. She asked what is the timeframe for teachers to prepare report cards? Dr. Pughsley reported he is not prepared to speak to this tonight. Ms. Leake said it is very hard to fit all the days in the calendar. She said many teachers advocated for the new legislation that was passed even though this Board stated it did not support the proposed changes in the law. This Board preferred to maintain the flexibility for the decisions of the school calendar within the district. She said any problems with the calendar have been generated due to teacher's input in supporting what the legislators said they wanted to do. Ms. Leake is disappointed with the teachers who supported the new legislation and are now disappointed with the calendars. She said some teachers have complained about the long stretches with no breaks. Ms. Leake believes this is part of the process and the process is to ensure that we are there to educate children. Ms. McGarry noted comments have been made that the state has done this to us. She has not heard any complaints that the teachers will be getting five less workdays but will still be paid for those days. She said there is some inconvenience with this calendar but there are some pluses and minuses. Mr. Gauvreau stated he is not comfortable with Martin Luther King Day continuing to be a protected day. He believes a make-up day should be on that day as opposed to President's Day. He asked what is the rationale for this? Chairperson White said it usually does not snow that early.

Mr. Gauvreau moved that the make-up day in this calendar does not include President's Day, and that the make-up day first include Martin Luther King's birthday, seconded by Ms. McGarry, and a discussion followed. Ms. McGarry asked what are the dates in the amendment? She suggested when the calendar is approved she hopes the administration can

15 of 30 - Regular Board Meeling, December 14, 2004 include a narrative of the holidays. Mr. Gauvreau reported he is talking about the protected day, th January 17 . He said his amendment is to not protect that day, it is a day off, but if we need that day for a make-up day, we should use that day first as opposed to just waiting until later on. He has not received a good reason as to why this is done every year. Mr. Dunlap called for the question. Mr. Green asked Mr. Gauvreau to clarify his motion. Mr. Gauvreau said this is an amendment to Dr. Pughsley's proposal that one of the make-up days will be Martin Luther King's birthday which is currently a protected day. He said he would like to substitute President's Day for Martin Luther King's birthday. Mr. Green asked Mr. Gauvreau what day did he want to make th the protected workday? Mr. Gauvreau said President's Day, February 20 .

The Board voted 1 to 8 on the amendment by Mr. Gauvreau. Mr. Gauvreau voted in favor of the motion. Mr. White, Ms. Cramer, Ms. McGarry, Ms. Leake, Ms. Dunlap, Ms. Woods, Ms. Griffin, and Dr. Kindberg voted against the motion.

Mr. Dunlap called for the question on the original motion.

The Board voted 9 to 0 to adopt the modified version of Calendar C as recommended by the Superintendent.

The Board took a break at 9:00 p.m.

The Board reconvened the Regular Board Meeting at 9:07 p.m.

C. Recommend approval of resolution for North Carolina Testing Standards

Chairperson White called upon Ms. Cramer to present the recommendation. Ms. Cramer said this resolution is for testing at the state level. The purpose of the resolution is to encourage the state to use an independent third party to audit the Standard Course of Study; to look at cut scores that have been established for passing the test; and to review the alignment between our test and the Standard Course of Study. Ms. Cramer said there is currently an evaluation that is ongoing related to our testing program (the ABC Program at the state level), but it is conducted within the system. To be independently audited will address some of the concerns and provide greater credibility to the system. There are organizations that have this type background and skill.

Upon motion by Ms. Cramer, and seconded by Ms. Griffin, to adopt the resolution for North Carolina Testing Standards, a discussion followed. Ms. Woods supports the motion but made the following amendment.

Upon amendment by Ms. Woods, and seconded by Ms. Cramer, to add the phrasing 'to be competitive internationally' to Page 2, Item 2. (iii). It would read as follows: Whether the testing standards continue to reasonably reflect the level of performance necessary to be successful at the next grade level, for more advanced study in the content area 'to be competitive internationally' and/or for establishing whether every student is being given the opportunity to receive a sound, basic education; and... A discussion amon~ Board members followed. Ms. Woods believes CMS is very internationally competitive in the 4 h grade th but not in math by the time stUdents are in the sth and 10 grades. It is important to include this to ensure our curriculum is up to par. Ms. Leake expressed concerned for the resolution as it relates to the 2S-units that are required for students to graduate. She asked how would the resolution impact that process, the district's testing process, the cost of the 9th grade initiative, CMS not having a curriculum that embraces music and art, and the cost of this to the district?

16 of 30 - Regular Board Meeting, December 14, 2004 Ms. Cramer explained that this would be a request to the state and there would be no cost to CMS. She believes there would be no impact on the 28-unit graduation requirement. Ms. Leake asked if the request was for the state do this across the state or just for CMS? Ms. Cramer said this would ask the state to have an independent third party to review the Standard Course of Study which is used across the state as well as the alignment of the testing for the Standard Course of Study, and where the cut scores have been established. Ms. Leake suggested that this should be discussed with the legislators to explain the process so they will understand how this will impact or not impact the success of students across the district. She is concerned this may add additional testing for the students. She asked how is this justified to those who are concerned that we should be teaching students to be critical thinkers rather than test-takers? Ms. Cramer said the main focus of the resolution is to ensure that the testing is as effective as it should be. This will help assure parents that when we tell them that their child is on grade-level those test scores mean their child is actually on grade-level, and that those cut scores are not so low that we are misrepresenting those test results. Ms. Leake asked would this be based upon the national level or the state of North Carolina? Ms. Cramer said as compared to the state of North Carolina and the curriculum, is that child on grade-level and also how does that child's performance on the state curriculum compare to national performance, and is grade-level in North Carolina the same as grade-level in other states. Mr. Dunlap believes it is important that the public understand the key points and purpose of the resolution. Mr. Dunlap recapped the resolution and explained its terminology. Mr. Dunlap explained CMS has End-of-Grade (EOG) and End-of-Course (EOC) testing. The results of these tests will place a student on Level 1, Level II, Level III, or Level IV. The level I students have an insufficient amount of knowledge and skills that will make them successful if they are moved to the next grade. The Level II student is minimally prepared to move to the next grade. They just have the basic requirements to succeed in the next grade. The Level III students have the requirements to be successful at the next grade level. The Level IV student exceeds the standards. There is concern there is not an alignment from elementary to middle to high school to make sure that students are consistently learning what is expected of them. There is also concern if the tests are actually measuring what they need to. The purpose of this resolution is to ask the state to have a different set of eyes to review it to ensure that we are measuring what we want to measure, that students are succeeding at the rate necessary for them to succeed, and we have rigor in our tests. Mr. Dunlap stated because the standard tests have been in place for some time, most teachers now have an understanding of what students need to know. These teachers are able to teach to the test to ensure that students know what they need to know to do well on the tests. The question is do they know what they need to know to be successful in the world. We want to ensure that students know what they need to know to be successful in the world. Mr. Gauvreau said he has expressed concern for over-inflated test scores for a number of years. He believes this is good but it should go further. He believes this should include criterion-referenced tests and not the norm-referenced to grouped accountability curved that is presently done that has given over­ inflated skewed results and is monkeyed with in the cut scores. The key message that must be delivered in this resolution is that criterion-referenced tests must be included in this document. Mr. Gauvreau noted he does not believe the Leandro reference is relevant to the resolution.

Mr. Gauvreau moved that on Page 2, Item, 2. (ii) would include valid criterion-referenced test. Item 2. (ii) would read as follows: Whether the tests developed by the State Board are aligned to effectively measure every student's knowledge of the NC scas and are valid, criterion-referenced tests. Mr. Gauvreau also requested to modify Item 2. (iv) to change the word 'norm' to 'national' and to also include the Iowa Test of Basic Skills (ITBS) test. Ms. Cramer accepted the amendment, and it was seconded by Ms. Griffin.

Mr. Gauvreau said this should be aligned to national norm tests because this is what is being

17 of 30 - Regular Board Meeting. December 14, 2004 done now and is part of the problem. This should be focusing, as other states have done, on criterion-referenced tests that measure what students know against a set curriculum and that cannot be monkeyed with in the grouped curve. Mr. Gauvreau expressed concern for the predicted validity of North Carolina State Assessments. Mr. Green, General Counsel, stated the Board now has an amendment from Ms. Woods and a two-part amendment from Mr. Gauvreau. He believes the Board should vote upon Ms. Woods' amendment and then continue with the discussion on Mr. Gauvreau's amendment.

The Board voted 9 to 0 to include the phrase 'to be competitive internationally' in Item 2. (iii) on Page 2.

Ms. Leake noted some students are not test-takers but do well in college and in life. She expressed concern that this may be setting up a barrier to stop some students from being successful because of the testing process and the procedure based upon the outcome of tests. Ms. Leake asked if this involved homogenous grouping in this process based upon the outcome of the testing process? Mr. Gauvreau stated this is a North Carolina State Course of Study Resolution about our testing assessment process and its validity. Ms. Leake expressed concern that the test will be the major determining factor for the success of a student versus the nonsuccess of a student. Ms. Cramer reported that this is not her intent. The intent of the resolution is to ensure that the tests that are already in place and that already impact the life of the student are a fair and accurate representation of what a student knows based on our curriculum. Ms. Leake is concerned that this is adding another step to the process to determine the success of a student and she hopes this does not have a hidden agenda. Ms. Woods asked Dr. Pughsley and Dr. Agruso if they support the resolution. Dr. Agruso said the language in Mr. Gauvreau's amendment is typical testing language and very appropriate for an End-of-Grade or End-of Course assessment. Mr. Dunlap asked Dr. Agruso to explain the difference between criterion-referenced and norm testing. Dr. Agruso said criterion-referenced means that you are measuring something against a standard. Dr. Agruso said norm-referenced, in its purest form, is looking at establishing cut scores or something that is based on how students or groups performed next to each other. Dr. Agruso explained if a 100 point scale test was given and the highest score on that test was a 62, if it is a norm-referenced situation, the 62 is equivalent to an A. It does not matter that no one received an A on the test. All the scores are stacked against each other and the highest is the best score and the lowest is the lowest score. Dr. Agruso said the difficulty with the testing program is that most of our tests are a combination of both and both sets of data are used in establishing a testing program. Ms. McGarry believes it is important to bring this to the attention of the state and this is a good way to do that. She believes state testing has needed to be addressed. Mr. Dunlap hopes this will ensure that when a parent is told their child is a Level I, there is no question that the student is a Level I. He hopes this will be a way to measure what students really know. He believes this resolution is designed to do that. Chairperson White supports the resolution but believes adding the word 'valid' has little significance.

The Board voted 8 to 1 to approve the amendments to the motion made by Mr. Gauvreau. Mr. White, Ms. Cramer, Ms. McGarry, Mr. Gauvreau, Mr. Dunlap, Ms. Woods, Ms. Griffin, and Dr. Kindberg voted in favor of the amendment. Ms. Leake voted against the amendment.

The Board voted on the entire resolution to include the amendment by Ms. Woods and the amendment with two modifications by Mr. Gauvreau.

The Board voted 9 to 0 to approve the amended resolution for North Carolina Testing

18 of 30 - Regular Board Meeting, December 14, 2004 Standards.

D. Recommend approval of student assignment boundary change

Chairperson White said this item had three parts and would be presented by Mr. Gauvreau, Ms. McGarry, and Dr. Kindberg. Chairperson White called upon Mr. Gauvreau. Mr. Gauvreau asked the Board for approval to allow him to change his vote on the Community House Road Middle School boundary assignment as presented by Dr. Kindberg at the November 23, 2004 Regular Board Meeting. Chairperson White reported that this would require a unanimous approval by the Board to allow Mr. Gauvreau to change his vote.

The Board voted 9 to 0 to allow Mr. Gauvreau to change his vote on the student assignment boundary for Community House Road Middle School as presented by Dr. Kindberg at the November 23, 2004 Regular Board Meeting. The original vote was 6 to 3 in favor of the motion with the two amendments. The vote will now reflect 5 to 4 in favor of the motion with the two amendments and reflect that Ms. Cramer, Ms. McGarry, Ms. Woods, Ms. Griffin, and Dr. Kindberg voted in favor of the motion. Mr. White, Mr. Gauvreau, Ms. Leake, and Mr. Dunlap voted against the motion.

Chairperson White called upon Ms. McGarry. Ms. McGarry said she would like to request a change for the home school area for the Old Farm neighborhood.

Upon motion by Ms. McGarry to request that the student assignment plan be revised to include the Old Farm neighborhood in the home school area for Sharon Elementary School effective the 2005-2006 school year, and seconded by Mr. Gauvreau, a discussion followed. Ms. Griffin believes the change makes good common sense. Based on a geographical argument and the fact that it does not impact many students, this would be more of a correction rather than a change. Ms. Griffin said after discussion with other Board members, staff, and parents this may be better considered when we analyze what has been happening to the schools in the East Mecklenburg High School feeder zone during the Comprehensive Review.

Upon substitute motion by Ms. Griffin to defer the discussion on this issue until the Comprehensive Review takes place in January, that it take place at the start of that review, and that it be reviewed in light of all the relevant factors that should come into play, and seconded by Ms. Cramer, a discussion followed. Ms. McGarry reported that in December of 2003 this Board approved that the Old Salem and Meredith neighborhoods be moved from the home school area of Lansdowne Elementary School to the home school area of Sharon Elementary School. The Old Farm neighborhood is adjacent to the Old Salem and Meredith neighborhoods and should have been included in that action. This change would affect very few students. Ms. McGarry believes this neighborhood is stuck in a political trap and that some of the Board members are hiding behind the Comprehensive Review 'wall.' She is concerned that this may be ignored again if it should wait until 2005. Ms. McGarry urged the Board to approve the motion to allow this neighborhood to join their neighbors at Sharon Elementary School. Mr. Gauvreau believes this should have been corrected administratively a long time ago. He supports Ms. McGarry's motion and encouraged the Board to take action on this tonight.

The Board voted 7 to 2 to defer this discussion to be included in the Comprehensive Review. Mr. White, Ms. Cramer, Ms. Leake, Mr. Dunlap, Ms. Woods, Ms. Griffin, and Dr. Kindberg voted in favor of the substitute motion. Ms. McGarry and Mr. Gauvreau voted against the substitute motion.

19 of 30 - Regular Board Meeting. December 14. 2004 Chairperson White called upon Dr. Kindberg. Dr. Kindberg said at the November 23, 2005 Regular Board meeting the Board approved a slightly non-traditional grade configuration for th th o~ening Community House Road Middle School so that the school would open with 5 , 6 , and 7 h grades. This was intended to populate the school and to relieve the tremendous overcrowding at both Hawk Ridge and Endhaven elementary schools. Concerns have been raised for the h second year of opening, particularly combining 5th graders with the older students (t graders). Dr. Kindberg said a modification has been developed as a result of discussions with parents and staff. Dr. Kindberg presented the proposed modification.

Upon motion by Dr. Kindberg that the Board modify the student assignment plan for Community House Road Middle School adopted on November 23, 2004 as follows: Rather than Community House Road Middle School open with grades 5, 6, and 7, it would instead open with grades 5 and 6 only. Rising 7th and 8th graders would remain at their current middle schools (i.e., South Charlotte, Quail Hollow, Robinson, and Crestdale middle schools), and seconded by Ms. Woods, a discussion followed. Dr. Kindberg provided an explanation of the proposed improvement to phase-in students at Community House Road Middle School.

Dr. Kindberg presented what was approved by the Board at the November 23, 2005 meeting and the boundaries from the Parent Task Force:

'For 2005-2006 th • 8 graders living in the new Community House Middle School area would stay at their current middle schools th • Community House would be grades 5-7 for 2005-2006, with the 5 grade coming only from Hawk Ridge and Endhaven elementary schools ~ . . • No 5 grade at Hawk Ridge or Endhaven In 2005-2006

Year Hawk Ridge and Community House Robinson, South Endhaven Middle Charlotte & Quail 2004-05 K-5 N/A 6-8 tn 2005-06 K-4 5-6-7 6-8 (with 8 from CHMS area) 2006-07 Not defined Not defined 6-8 2007-08 Not defined Not defined 6-8 ThiS assumes Flat Branch and Elon Park open fall 2007.

"5-6" Alternative

Year Hawk Ridge and Community House Robinson, South Endhaven Middle Charlotte & Quail 2004-05 K-5 N/A 6-8 tn tn 2005-06 K-4 5-6 6-8 (with 7 &8 from CHMS area) 2006-07 K-4 5-6-7 6-8 (with 8tn from CHMS area) 2007-08" K-5 6-8 6-8 " ThiS assumes Flat Branch and Elon Park open fall 2007. (2005 bonds reqUired for Elon)

Dr. Kindberg said this was a timeline showing what was approved at the November 23rd meeting.

20 of 30 - Regular Board Meeting. December 14. 2004 She said in 2005-2006 Hawk Ridge and Endhaven elementary schools would be K-4 schools, Community House Road Middle School would be a 5, 6, and 7 grade school, and the rest of the middle schools would be 6-8 grade with the 8th graders from Community House Road Middle School remaining at their current schools. What is being proposed is a three-year plan that takes Hawk Ridge and Endhaven elementary schools to K-4 for two years. In 2005-2006 the 5th and 6th graders would go to Community House Road Middle School. Robinson, South Charlotte, and Quail middle schools would be 6-8 as standard with the J'h and 8th graders from Community House Road Middle School. The only change is for where the J'h graders will attend school. The next year, those students will move to 6th and 7th grades and are joined by the 5th grades from Endhaven and Community House Road Middle School. Dr. Kindberg said the first year it would be a 5-6 school, the second year it would be a 5-7 school, the third year of the plan Flat Branch and Elon Park will open. This will provide the space to relieve both Hawk Ridge and Endhaven elementary schools and also deal with the very large development of Centex that has already been rezoned. Dr. Kindberg reported we currently have funding for Flat Branch from the COPs funding but we do not have funding yet for Elon Park. She said Elon Park would require that the 2005 Bonds pass. Dr. Kindberg explained reasons to support the modification.

• Provides a clear three-year progression plan to bridge from current year to the opening of the new schools in fall 2007. • It does not put 8th graders in the high schools in later years. • Better stability: Current 6th grade students attend one middle school instead of 2 or 3, and current 4th graders stay at Community House Road Middle School for 4 years. • Addresses concerns about putting younger students with 7th graders (raised by Coach White and many parents). Parents are more comfortable with 5-6 grouping rather than 5- 6-7 (especially on buses).

Dr. Kindberg noted this modification does not require any reprogramming changes. She said the programming for next year has already been completed and is in testing. Dr. Kindberg said the J'h graders would be left where they are as continuing students rather than being recoded into Community House Road Middle School. She said Dr. Pughsley has stated that he would prefer to open this school as a 6-8 grade school. She has received many responses that the 5-6 plan is preferred over the 5-7 plan because it is more effective. A discussion with Board members followed. Mr. Dunlap recapped that the Board had asked the Superintendent to develop a plan for the opening of some new schools. Mr. Dunlap said this was done but his proposal was never presented to the Board because the majority of this Board voted for an alternate proposal presented by Dr. Kindberg. The Superintendent's proposal was a combination of the plan that was adopted by a group of parents representing all schools affected as well as a few modifications from the Superintendent. There was clear indication this was the will of the community. Mr. Dunlap noted that after the proposal by Dr. Kindberg was adopted they found that the community did not like it. Mr. Dunlap said while this modification satisfies the majority of the people there are still those people who are dissatisfied. Mr. Dunlap said it was realized that the first changes would not work so it has been modified again and we have still not heard the proposal by the Superintendent. Mr. Dunlap believes this proposal may work, however, he would like to have the Superintendent's recommendation presented. He said the Superintendent's proposal was developed by staff with consideration to the numbers and was consistent with the recommendation of the Community Task Force. He expressed concern with the modifications being made in Dr. Kindberg's proposal because there may be additional changes required to make the plan work. Mr. Dunlap encouraged the Board to consider the Superintendent's proposal before considering another modification. Ms. Leake reported she voted against the proposal because she is opposed to J'h graders attending school with 5th and 6th graders. She th would consider a plan that was K-6, with J'h and 8 graders together, and 9-12 together. She

21 of 30 - Regular Board Meeting. December 14, 2004 would prefer to support the Superintendent's recommendation. Dr. Kindberg said she understands the concerns raised by Ms. Leake. She said a number of parents had also raised concern about this, particularly in unsupervised environments such as buses. She said this is why this modification does not have 7th graders at Community House Road Middle School the first year. Dr. Kindberg said this school is in a grade-wing configuration so that each grade would have their own separate wing with their own staff, etc. That is why the 2005-2006 plan leaves those 7th graders at their other schools. Those same students move up to be 6-7 and there will be time to prepare them properly so when the 5th graders come in there will be the right th th th environment. The next year, those same students become the 6 , 7 , and a graders. This will be the same school population two years in a row. Ms. Leake said her preference would be to th not see 7th graders with 6 grade students and she is very concerned about this grade configuration and the exposure to older students. Ms. McGarry believes since the Board approved the proposal they should continue to support that decision. She will support this modification because there were legitimate concerns expressed and this modification incorporates most of those concerns in a manner that is workable and can be successful. Mr. Gauvreau said he is still opposed to this recommendation. He believes innovative ideas are being created because the facility policy and student assignment have been mismanaged. He said while no one wants to see these horribly overcrowded schools, we have been giving priority into suburban areas for a long time. He said about two years ago there were about 1,500 students at Hawk Ridge and he would favor returning to that situation because it is the better of the alternatives. He believes the overcrowding at Hawk Ridge will be okay for another couple of years. He believes CMS should be accelerating construction in the suburban areas rather than spending time on ideas that will not work. He does not support putting 5th graders in a middle school. He believes parents would prefer to have additional mobiles placed at the overcrowded schools rather than be moved to a middle school too early. Dr. Pughsley said he would prefer to th th th open this school as a 6 , 7 , and a grade school. This was the recommendation of the Parent Task Force and this is his recommendation with some modifications. The primary modification was to use an open concept that would allow students to select this school or one of the other two middle schools in that area. Dr. Pughsley cautioned the Board with regards to seeking out regional remedies that would apply in one area but the Board may not have the willingness to apply it in a different area of the county. He asked the Board if this was the operational approach they are approving to take, to not only take it in this particular situation but in others that may look like this as well. Dr. Pughsley said whatever action is taken, let's be prepared to take it in other parts of the county under the same kinds of conditions that we take here. Mr. Gauvreau said he has been consistent and believes in that premise. He does not believe students should be bused to solve the problems. He believes the public wants neighborhood schools in the suburban and inner city areas. Dr. Pughsley stated he is only suggesting to the Board that they be consistent. Ms. Griffin asked because the overcrowding at Hawk Ridge is so severe and we are not sure there will be funding for Elon Park, will the school be okay for another three years with the current growth? Dr. Pughsley said he could not say the school would be okay for three years nor could he say that any other school in a growth area would be okay as well. Ms. Griffin believes this plan has some innovative aspects and to go forward to deal with this very difficult overcrowding situation the Board should be open to some innovation. Dr. Pughsley said he is not closed to innovation but he is advocating consistency. Ms. Leake believes students want to stay where they are regardless of the number of mobile units at the school. She would like to see consistency in the process. She believes mobiles have been fashionable at some given areas but not at others. Ms. Leake believes the Board should be fair, legal, and consistent in the process. Ms. Woods believes it is important, as Dr. Pughsley stated, to be consistent. This is why the Comprehensive Review is very important. Ms. Woods supports Dr. Kindberg's proposal because it offers stability to the teachers and students in a very overcrowded situation. Dr. Kindberg reported that Hawk Ridge has an enrollment of 1,20a students. They are enrolling

22 of 30 - Regular Board Meeting, December 14. 2004 students weekly and are growing between 200 to 250 students per year. This growth equates to about ten mobiles. The school currently houses twenty-two mobiles and the site maximum is thirty mobiles. By next September this school should reach its maximum for mobiles. This is one reason she is proposing something that is non-traditional. CMS has not faced this type situation before where a site runs out of space for additional mobiles. This situation is not just happening at Hawk Ridge. There are many elementary schools that are exploding all over the county in all kinds of neighborhoods. Dr. Kindberg said there is a 1,200-seat school with three grade wings that is ready to open and CMS should try to utilize that space to get through this two or three year crunch. Ms. Cramer believes this is a tough decision because the Superintendent's remarks regarding consistency are very compelling. She expressed a concern for the dips in student achievement between 6th and 9th grades. She believes CMS should be doing something differently to assess this situation. This proposal may be an opportunity for greater collaboration in an effort to improve the dip. She expressed concern about Board members addressing issues that may be better handled by staff. She thinks the motivation for this proposal was to relieve overcrowding and to utilize the facilities. She noted previous Board decisions and the Choice Plan have impacted the student aSSignment pattern. Ms. Cramer believes the seats at a school, especially at a new school, should be used to the benefit of students. She has received positive responses from parents that they are comfortable with this concept. She will support this proposal. Mr. Dunlap stated the first vote was a wrong vote and it was indicated by the response of the community. We are dealing with a timeline and correct decisions must be made so staff can meet their deadlines. If there is another mistake made in terms of direction, there will not be an opportunity to correct it. Mr. Dunlap believes the Board should consider Dr. Pughsley's recommendation. He reminded the Board that this is also the proposal that the community supported and recommended.

Upon substitute motion by Mr. Dunlap that the Board adopt the Superintendent's recommendation for Community House Road Middle School, and seconded by Ms. Leake, a discussion followed. Chairperson White reported the Superintendent's recommendation includes that the school would open as a regular middle school. Ms. Griffin asked Dr. Pughsley to explain the open selection process for the school that he mentioned earlier. Dr. Pughsley explained that it was the recommendation of the Parent Task Force that Community House Road Middle School open as a 6-8 grade school. His recommendation included this with one modification. The modification was for students who lived in a certain area to be assigned to Community House Road Middle School but there would be an option or an open zone that would allow them to continue at Jay M. Robinson Middle School or South Charlotte Middle School. The students would make this selection rather than forcing them to the new middle school and out of th their previous location. The rising yth and 8 graders would be allowed to choose. Ms. Griffin asked what was the reason for allowing this option. Dr. Pughsley reported there have been difficulties in the past in grandfathering students and this would allow the parents to make those decisions. Chairperson White expressed concern for Dr. Kindberg's proposal. He said there has been concern for the 5-7 configuration and this will still occur in the modified proposal in the 2006-2007 school year. Chairperson White also expressed concern that Dr. Kindberg's proposal is contingent upon a 2005 Bond issue to place another elementary school in south Charlotte. Chairperson White stated he would support the Superintendent's recommendation.

The Board voted 4 to 5 to adopt the Superintendent's recommendation. Mr. White, Mr. Gauvreau, Ms. Leake, and Mr. Dunlap voted in favor of the substitute motion. Ms. Cramer, Ms. McGarry, Ms. Woods, Ms. Griffin, and Dr. Kindberg voted against the substitute motion.

Mr. Gauvreau reminded the Board about the upcoming Comprehensive Review which may

23 of 30 - Regular Board Meeting, December 14, 2004 change these decisions.

The Board voted 5 to 4 to approve the modified proposal presented by Dr. Kindberg. Ms. Cramer, Ms. McGarry, Ms. Woods, Ms. Griffin, and Dr. Kindberg voted in favor of the motion. Mr. White, Mr. Gauvreau, Ms. Leake, and Mr. Dunlap voted against the motion.

E. Recommend approval of amended School Improvement Plans for non-Title I schools

Chairperson called upon Dr. Pughsley to present the recommendation. Dr. Pughsley reported the plans have been available for Board review. Dr. Pughsley asked for approval of the item and noted it was a time-sensitive matter.

At the September 2004 State Board of Education Meeting, the Board accepted and adopted the list of Non-Title I Schools in School Improvement for 2004-2005 school year. Non-Title I schools are not subject to the same sanctions defined by the U.S. Department of Education for Title I schools; however, State Board Policy has established requirements for these schools. The requirements are as follows:

• Review of current School Improvement Plans in light of the most recent school data with a focus on subgroups making AYP. • Make necessary adjustments in the School Improvement Plan to align efforts with current school data. • Include strategies that will enhance academic performance of the subgroups not making AYP.

Upon motion by Ms. Cramer, and seconded by Ms. Woods, the Board voted 9 to 0 to approve the amended School Improvement Plans for non-Title I schools.

Ms. Woods expressed concern that several of the schools did not include parental involvement. She would encourage in the future that parental involvement be included in the School Improvement Plans, particularly for the schools that do not make AYP.

F. Recommend approval of resolution for collateral properties in connection with the next COPs sale

Chairperson White called upon Dr. Pughsley to present the recommendation. Dr. Pughsley reported this recommendation is related to the COPs program. Dr. Pughsley said the Board of Education and the Mecklenburg County Board of Commissioners have previously adopted funding for certain school projects through Certificates of Participation (COPs). As required for this type of financing, Mecklenburg County must own the property needed as collateral for the money borrowed. Mecklenburg County then leases the properties used as collateral back to the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Board of Education (CMBE). The properties will be returned to CMBE ownership when the COPs financing is paid off. The proposed properties to be used for collateral in connection with the next COPs sale are the Ardrey Kell High School site and the Highland Creek Elementary School site.

Upon motion by Mr. Dunlap, and seconded by Ms. Leake, the Board voted 9 to 0 to approve the resolution for collateral properties in connection with the next COPs sale.

G. Recommend approval to change the employment contract and compensation for Maurice Green, General Counsel

24 of 30 - Regular Board Meeting, December 14, 2004 This item was added to the agenda. Chairperson White called upon Ms. Griffin to present the recommendation.

Ms. Griffin moved, and it was seconded by Ms. Leake, to approve the following changes to the em·ployment contract and compensation for Maurice Green, General Counsel.

1. To extend the employment contract by one year or until June 30, 2008; 2. To raise the annual compensation by 2.5% for the 2004-2005 contract year, effective July 1, 2004; 3. To pay a bonus of 7% of base salary, and an additional 7% of base salary in deferred compensation; 4. Continuation of the existing car allowance; 5. Authorize the Board Chairperson to execute, on behalf of the Board, a written amendment to the General Counsel's employment contract in accordance with this motion.

Chairperson White clarified that the remainder of the contract would remain worded as is. Mr. Gauvreau said that he would not support this motion because it is excessive. Mr. Gauvreau believes this puts Mr. Green's contract at $180,000 a year and puts the taxpayers at a greater risk than is necessary. Mr. Gauvreau said Mr. Green is a fine man and a capable employee. Mr. Gauvreau said the contract includes 'no clause termination' which could potentially provide Mr. Green almost $700,000. This is too much and he will not put the county taxpayers in this situation. Ms. McGarry will not support this motion for different reasons. She said Mr. Green's job performance has been superb. She said in regards to government officials, CMS is not in-line with in-house attorneys and this is excessive. Mr. Dunlap asked that the question be called.

The Board voted 7 to 2 to approve the changes to General Counsel's employment contract and compensation. Mr. White, Ms. Cramer, Ms. Leake, Mr. Dunlap, Ms. Woods, Ms. Griffin, and Dr. Kindberg voted in favor of the motion. Ms. McGarry and Mr. Gauvreau voted against the motion.

IV. CONSENT ITEMS

A. Recommend approval of minutes • November 23, 2004 Closed Session • November 18, 2004 Closed Session • November 11-12. 2004 Board Retreat • November 10, 2004 Work Session • November 9. 2004 Closed Session • October 26, 2004 Regular Board Meeting B. Construction Items 1. Recommend approval of construction contract for the interior demolition of the Euclid Building and Dilworth Elementary School 2. Recommend approval of construction contract for the off-site sanitary sewer facilities at new Bailey Road Middle School 3. Recommend approval of design contract for the new Westmoreland Elementary School 4. Item Deleted 5. Recommend approval of a painting contract for various schools

Upon motion by Ms. Cramer, and seconded by Ms. Griffin, the Board voted 9 to 0 to

25 of 30 - Regular Board Meeling. December 14. 2004 approve Consent Items A. thru B.S.

V. REPORTS I INFORMATION ITEMS

A. Report on Advanced Academic Program

Chairperson White called upon Dr. Pughsley to present the report. Dr. Pughsley requested, in respect to time, to allow administration to present this report at a later date. Mr. Dunlap expressed concern that staff had been waiting an extended period of time to present this report just to be asked to return at a later time. Mr. Dunlap asked that this report be put at the beginning of the agenda for the next scheduled Board meeting.

By consensus, the Board approved the request.

B. Report on Phillip O. Berrv Academy of Technology School Improvement Plan

Chairperson White called upon Dr. Pughsley to present the report. Dr. Pughsley stated this report was time sensitive and we would like to have it presented. Dr. Pughsley invited Ann Clark, Regional Superintendent for High Schools, to make introductions. Ms. Clark introduced Dr. David Baldaia, principal at Phillip O. Berry Academy of Technology. She said this would be the first of a series of required reports on the status of the State Assistance Team's presence at Phillip O. Berry Academy of Technology this year as a result of its low-performing status. Ms. Clark stated the Board had received a copy of the Need's Assessment Report which was the first of three phases of the State Assistance Team's presence at the school. The report was in two parts. The first part was a profile of the school that included much of the district's data that is already made available to the community. The second part was a Need's Assessment based on the Effective School's Correlates. Ms. Clark said the Board had received a draft of the school's response to the Need's Assessment. This is a requirement by the state legislature. The school must respond with a plan to address issues and recommendations that were made in the Need's Assessment. Ms. Clark reported the school's staff would continue to work with the State Assistance Team over the next month to finalize the plan. The State Assistance Team is now moving forward with implementation of their interventions and will work specifically with teachers and various committees within the school that include the School's Leadership Team, parents, staff, and students. Ms. Clark said this report would provide key components of the school's plan that is based on the recommendations from the State Assistance Team. Ms. Clark invited Dr. Baldaia to review the school's response to the Need's Assessment. Dr. Baldaia thanked the teachers and support staff for meeting the challenge of high student achievement for Phillip O. Berry Academy of Technology. Dr. Baldaia said this is aligned with the Safe School Correlates. This is a working draft and additional information may be added. Some of the items and actions have already been in place for some time, some will conclude very quickly, and some will be on-going throughout the school year. Dr. Baldaia highlighted the action and monitoring plan to achieve student achievement as follows:

1. Safe and Orderly School Climate » School discipline » School safety 2. High Expectations for Students » Instruction » Scheduling » Curriculum 3. Opportunity to Learn and High Academic Time on Task

26 of 30 - Regular Board Meeting, December 14, 2004 ~ Instructional time ~ Facilitating Instruction ~ Monitoring Instruction 4. Clear and Focused Mission ~ Communication and Collaboration 5. Frequent Monitoring of Student Progress ~ Instruction ~ Exceptional Children Program 6. Home School Relations ~ Parental and Community Involvement

Dr. Baldaia said this was a snapshot of the work that the staff is now engaged in and this will be continued throughout the school year. A discussion with Board members followed. Dr. Kindberg asked what assistance did the school need from the Board to accomplish the vision for Phillip O. Berry Academy of Technology. Dr. Baldaia said they need two things. He said they have been given the resources, such as personnel, technology, equipment, etc., and the other element that is very compelling that they have been given is a set of entrance criteria for the upcoming family application process cycle and those in the future. Dr. Kindberg asked what are the entry requirements that have been put in place for next year? Dr. Baldaia said students applying to the school must meet 8th grade standard requirements in reading and mathematics. Students must be scoring Level III in reading and math as a minimum by the end of summer school. Students who have an IEP must meet their IEP goals. Dr. Kindberg asked what would be a good method to help Exceptional Children select appropriate programs where they can be successful? Dr. Baldaia said they have the Occupational Course of Study. Some student's IEP recommends this program which is a different approach or set of course offerings. Through advisement and reviewing the student's capabilities and IEP, the students can apply. They will work with the Exceptional Children's Department to do this. The Entrance Criteria also requires that students must pass the Computer Competency Test, both the performance and written components. Ms. Woods expressed a concern for the English Second Language students who may perform very well in math but not in reading because they are new to the United States. Ms. Woods noted these students may not pass the reading criteria. She asked has this been considered? Dr. Baldaia said federal legislation provides for students with limited English efficiency not to be disallowed from any program due to language and those standards would not apply to those students. Ms. Woods believes this should be the criterion for all the students in the 9th grade. Ms. Woods expressed a concern for the number of experienced teachers at the school and she believes some of the school's needs should be connected with Human Resources. Ms. Woods asked has this been considered as part of the plan to create a balance with experienced and new teachers? Dr. Pughsley reported there has been involvement with Human Resources. He said this is a unique situation and he would be proposing some things in January to address this situation. Ms. Woods noted the information regarding parental involvement and believes this is very important. She would like the plan to include a goal for parent conferences and parental involvement because parent contact is very important and should be strengthened. Ms. Woods asked had the Student Leadership Teams been involved in this process and allowed to provide input as to what they believe should be done to help their SChool be a shining star? Dr. Baldaia said they had been involved via a survey and meetings, and this will be continuing. Ms. Leake expressed concern for the behavior problems at the school and the safety of the building. She believes this school should have a screening process and other principals should not be allowed to transfer problems into that school. She would like to see this school successful. She believes this facility must be well managed for students to learn. Ms. Leake believes this school should have the best teachers that are available in CMS. She would like to see these students on the right track and parents supporting this school by sending children to the school to be educated

27 of 30 - Regular Board Meeting, December 14. 2004 and not disciplined. Ms. McGarry noted there had been eight resignations among certified and classified staff since the State Assistance Team arrived. She asked what was the reason for these resignations? Dr. Baldaia said some staff resigned due to spouses accepting employment in other places, due to medical reasons, and some may have felt the heat coming and resigned. He said there were a variety of causes and he suspects there will be more. Ms. McGarry asked if these positions were being replaced? Dr. Baldaia said the school was almost fully staffed. There are no teaching vacancies other than one position in drafting. Dr. Baldaia said they are filling vacancies as they occur. Ms. McGarry said there were a number of teachers who have not passed the Praxis Test and asked to be provided the number of teachers. Ms. Cramer thanked Dr. Baldaia for the plan that he presented. She believes Dr. Baldaia and the staff are determined to make this successful. Ms. Griffin suggested that parental involvement be made a requirement. She has been involved with this type model and was required to volunteer an average of an hour a week at the school. This model worked. Mr. Dunlap thanked Dr. Baldaia for his supportiveness and responsive in addressing parental concerns. Mr. Dunlap noted that Dr. Pughsley, Dr. Baldaia, and he had met with parents to listen to their concerns. He said this plan addresses many of those concerns. Mr. Dunlap noted he has been copied on many e-mails from parents to Dr. Baldaia addressing their concerns. Mr. Dunlap believes Dr. Baldaia has worked hard to resolve parental issues, he is responsive to parental concerns, and is supportive of ensuring that every child receives a good education. Mr. Dunlap reported there has been many comments in reference to the number of bomb threats at the school. He said many people do not know that the school was asked by the Police Department that students not be moved. Mr. Dunlap said he appreciates the "can do spirit" of Dr. Baldaia but he does not believe the school has everything they need to be successful. He expressed concern that 60% of the school's staff has less than four years experience. He believes the school needs experienced staff. He believes experienced staff could do a better job in dealing with the discipline, they understand the importance of setting rules, and they do a better job following and adhering to those rules. He noted research has shown that the single most important factor in a child's education is the teacher. He encouraged CMS to consider placing more experienced teachers in this school. Mr. Gauvreau said not many people would want to be leading this charge. He said the presentation was crisp, clean, hard­ hitting, honest, and this is the framework to try to fix these problems. Mr. Gauvreau said he is trying to help with the district's discipline problems. He believes the principals in all the schools have their hands tied with the way CMS enforces the North Carolina Statute on expulsion of students. He would like this process to be made easier on the principals and this needs to be fixed. Chairperson White commended Dr. Baldaia and his staff for developing and implementing the plan. He believes it is a blueprint for success. He believes the plan will work not only for Phillip O. Berry Academy of Technology but also throughout the district if there is the leadership to make the implementation. Chairperson White believes a teacher with four years of experience is a seasoned teacher and if they can not manage a classroom they need to seek employment elsewhere. He believes the Lateral Entry Program is a unique opportunity and is necessary for this school. Chairperson White stated bomb threats have one purpose and that is to disrupt school and get out of class. He commends the school for putting the students in class and keeping them there after a bomb threat because it is the safest place for the students.

Report on covered walkways from mobile classrooms to school buildings

Chairperson White called upon Ms. Leake to present the report as this item was placed on the agenda at her request. Ms. Leake reported she placed this on the agenda to ensure that CMS is fair, legal, and consistent. She stated because of the lateness of the hour she would withdraw this request at this time and would readdress it at a later date.

28 of 30 - Regular Board Meeting, December 14, 2004 VI. REPORT FROM SUPERINTENDENT

Chairperson White called upon Dr. Pughsley for his report. Dr. Pughsley said he would be presenting a long awaited project. This project involves CMS TV-3 and how CMS recognizes and celebrates the achievements of our employees. Dr. Pughsley said that most Board meetings include employee recognitions for a job well done. We have been asked that CMS TV-3 prepare a video to make the same type of recognitions. This recognition video will air on CMS TV-3 on Saturdays and Sundays at 12:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. This will allow the people being recognized to be able to view their recognitions with their families. Dr. Pughsley believes this will be a very effective approach to recognize businesses, staff, and students. Highlights of the video were as follows:

• Computer Associates and Kaboom as Community Partners for helping Nations Ford Elementary School in building a new playground • Dean Johns, CMS Arts Education Director, NC Arts Education Association "Supervisory Educator of the Year" • Rosalind Lackey, principal, University Park Elementary School, NC Arts Education Association "Friends of the Arts Award" • Maureen Furr, principal, Jay M. Robinson Middle School, National Middle Schools Association "Distinguished Middle Level Educator" • Melissa Leftwich, Art Teacher, Jay M. Robinson Middle School, NC Arts Education Association "Middle School Arts Educator of the Year" • Jenny Atkins, Photography Teacher, Northwest School of the Arts, NC Arts Education Association "Secondary-Level Arts Educator of the Year" • Ivy Ratcliffe, Bus Driver of the Month • Mary Wilmore, Senior Administrative Secretary, re-elected as President of the District Two Chapter of the NC Association of Educational Office Professionals

VII. REPORTS FROM BOARD MEMBERS

Larry Gauvreau wished everyone a Merry Christmas and happy holidays.

George Dunlap reported there would be a Safety Committee meeting at 3:30 p.m. on December th 15 . This meeting is open to the public. They will be discussing the State's report. He noted discipline has been added as a responsibility of this committee and they will also discuss discipline issues. He said the CMS legal staff will be present and they will share guidelines for this added item.

Kit Cramer said if Board members had anything to add to the information from the Board Retreat to please notify Carole Hamrick, Manager of Board Services. She wished everyone happy holidays.

Kaye McGarry reported there would be a Finance, Capital, and Facilities Committee meeting at 3:00 p.m. on December 16th She said everyone is welcome to attend. They would be discussing the Long-Range School Facilities Master Plan. She wished everyone a blessed Christmas and a happy New Year.

Dr. Lee Kindberg wished everyone happy holidays.

29 of 30 - Regular Board Meeting. December 14. 2004 Louise Woods reported there would be a Personnel Committee meeting on December 16th at 1:30 p.m. They will be addressing staffing issues and Board policies.

Vilma Leake thanked the community for their contributions to help sponsor the band at West Charlotte High School to participate at the Sugar Bowl in New Orleans. She thanked Bank of America and others for their support. She commended Christa Fields, a student at Providence High School, who helped raise over $5,000. She thanked the parents of the community at Lake Wylie Elementary School for allowing her to serve as the Marshall of their Christmas Parade. She said she thoroughly enjoyed this event and spending time with the community. She visited several schools recently including Tuckaseegee Elementary School and Crown Point Elementary School. She had the opportunity to participate with the organization Children Helping the Community at Barringer Academic Center. Ms. Leake, along with the students and parents of this organization attended the City Council meeting on December 13th Ms. Leake reported the senior staff and School Board from Montgomery, Alabama will be visiting CMS to see the good things that are happening in our district. Ms. Leake believes this speaks very well to the th leadership of CMS and Dr. Pughsley. A team of twenty people will be visiting CMS January 6 - 9th Ms. Leake wished everyone a Merry Christmas.

Chairperson White thanked the Board members for their hard work for the children of the community over the last year. He is looking forward to serving as Chairperson for another year. He believes the Board will do even better things for the children of the community this year. He will not change any of the committee assignments unless a Board member makes that request. He wished everyone a very safe and happy holiday.

ADJOURNMENT

By consensus, the Board agreed to adjourn the meeting.

The Regular School Board Meeting adjourned at 11:46 p.m.

Ch person, Joe. I. White, Jr.

ridge

30 of 30 - Regular Board Meeting, December 14, 2004