6/26/2001 - Regular Board MeetingTHAMES VALLEY DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD
REGULAR BOARD MEETING,PUBLIC SESSION
2001 JUNE 26.7:00 P.M.
BOARD ROOM,EDUCATION CENTRE
AGENDA
V-verbal
M-material
1.CALL TO ORDER
2.O CANADA
3.SPECIAL IVIUSICAL PRESENTATION -Jazz Choir.
Parkhill-West Williams PS,Parkhill
4.APPROVAL OF AGENDA M
5.OFFICIAL RECORD M
6.RECOGNITIONS
a. Dr.Graham L.Pollett,Medical Officer of Health,
Middlesex-London Health Unit V
b.Linda Peck,Superintendent of Human Resources V
c.Gerry Treble,Superintendent of Education V
d.Sue Stevens,WCI,A&E Canadian Teacher Grant V
e.Parkside Mathematics Department,2001 Kenneth D.Fryer Av/ard V
f.Bernie Lawrence,Brick Street P.S.,Prime Minister's Awards
for Teaching Excellence V
g.Dale Hubert,Wilfrid Jury P.S.,Prime Minister's Awards for
Teaching Excellence V
h.Joyce Bennett,Trustee,the Ontario Public School Board
Association's Dr.Harry Paikin Award of Merit V
7.CONFLICTS OF INTEREST
8.DIRECTOR'S ANNOUNCEMENTS
9.CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES
Regular Board Meeting,2001 May 22 M
J
Special Board Meeting,2001 May 29 M
10.REPORTS FROM THE ADMINISTRATION
a.Departmental Updates M
b.Energy Management Agreement •Pilot Program M
11.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES
a.Special Education Advisory Committee,2001 May22 iVI
b.Special Education Advisory Committee,2001 June 05 M
c.Special Education Advisory Committee,2001 June 18 M
d.Native Advisory Committee Meeting,2001 May 08 M
e.Committee of tlie Whole,2001 June 05 M
f.Committee of the Whole,2001 June 12 M
g.Policy Worlcing Committee,2001 June 12 M
h.Chairs'Committee,2001 June 18 M
12.MOTIONS -NOTICE OF WHICH HAS BEEN GIVEN -none
13.ADDITIONAL BUSINESS
a.2000/2001 School Renewal Projects M
14.COMMUNICATIONS
a.Ontario Public School Boards'Association -Update V
b.Phi Delta Kappa Public Forum M
c.Bluewater District School Board M
15.NOTICE OF MOTIONS
16.GOOD NEWS ITEMS -"Did you Itnow..."
17.ADJOURNMENT
THAMES VALLEY DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD
REGULAR MEETING,2001 JUNE 26
The Board met in regular session on June 26, 2001 in the Board Room at the
Education Centre,meeting InCommittee of the Whole, In camera,at 5:00 p.m. on
motion of Trustee L.Stevenson and A.Cartier,followed by a public session at
7:15 p.m. The following were in attendance:
TRUSTEES
D.Stewart,Chair
J.Bennett
S.Deller
J.Hunter
ADMINISTRATION AND OTHERS
J.Laughlln
P.Gryseels
B. Bryce
B.Greene
C. Murphy
M.Sereda
P.Mennill
D.Anstead
S.Peters
T.Roberts
L.Stevenson
P.Schuyler (-10:50)
L.Robertson
G.Treble
J.Empringham
L.Peck
J.McKenzie
B.Beatty
K.Bushell
A.Cartier
G.Hart
P.Sattler
P.Jaffe
S.Dawson
B.Merifield
J.Neville
S.Galati
D.Bradford
S.Christie
W.Scott
Regrets:P.Doelman
O CANADA -PARKHILL-WEST WILLIAMS P.S.JAZZ CHOIR
The appreciation ofthe Boardwas extended to the Jazz Choir from Parkhill-West
Wlliams P.S.,Parkhill,and conductor Francis Toll for leading In the singing of 0
Canada and performingthree musical presentations.
APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA
The agenda was approved on motionof T. Roberts and L.Stevenson.
OFFICIAL RECORD
Regret was noted in the death of Soloman Schultz,an 14-yearold student at
Medway Secondary School,Arva,on 2001 May 25; and staff member:Christine
Pare,a teacher at Colborne Street Public School,Strathroy,on 2001 May 31.
2001 June26...192
MIDDLESEX-LONDON HEALTH UNIT
Dr.GrahamL.Pollett,Medical Officer ofHealthofthe Middlesex-London Health Unit
extended appreciation tothe Board for demonstrating a collaborative effort during
the student Meningicoccal immunization campaign.Dr.Pollett presented
Chairperson David Stewart with a plaque and expressed his personal thanks for the
support received byThames Valley staff.
RECOGNITION OF RETIRING SUPERVISORY OFFICER
Director of Education John Laughlin paid the following tributes on behalf of the
Administration to Linda Peck, Superintendent of Human Resources, and Gerry
Treble,Superintendent of Education,regarding their pending retirement.
"It isa special honour for meto beableto offer my comments regarding the
two supervisory officers who will be leaving ustoretireattheendofsummer.
Linda Peckand Gerry Treble exemplify the roleofthe supervisory officer and
allitstands for-knowledge,experience,dedication,leadership, empathyand
commitment to young people.
When we came together to form the Thames Valley District School Board
three years ago,my jobwas a much easier one because ofthe respectand
trust Ihad in each of these individuals. Each is unique and yet collectively,
they embody the values of Thames Valley.
LINDA PECK
SUPERINTENDENT OF HUMAN RESOURCE SERVICES
Linda Peck has served the students of London and Thames Valley for most
of her career.She started teaching withthe KentCounty Board in 1963 and
moved to London In 1970 to accept a position at Knoliwood Park Public
School. Through the ensuing years she has developed her significant
leadership skills as a Vice-Principal,Principal,Assistant Superintendent,
Superintendent of Program,and Executive Superintendent of Human
Resources with the London Board of Education,to her present position as
Superintendent of Human Resource Services.
There is no need for me to detail the difficulties and frustration faced by
educators today. We know the pressures, the demands on our time and
resources,and the drain on our energies that are part of a career in
r"2001 June26...193
education.Yet. over the past three years,the pressures have been lessened
and the demands on my time lighter because of Linda's vitality,her
enthusiasm,her dedication and her outstanding professionalism.It has been
reassuring for me to know that,because of Linda's commitment to detail and
sense of fairness,whatever she presents is well-researched,and provides a
balanced and accurate approach to each situation.Linda can always be
counted on to do what is required-and more,without considering the time
involved to complete the task.
She exemplifies the professional educator at best.Whether during her six
years as a teacher,six years as a school administrator or 14 years as a
supervisory officer, the people associated with her could not help but benefit
fromher drive,her energy,and her kindness.Ifanything characterizes Linda
Peck, itis her respect forthe ideals ofher profession,appreciation forthe staff
who have sen/ed with her and a love of life which has manifested itself in a
brilliant career spanning 38 years.
We know that when Linda leaves our system in August,there willbe a very
real and palpable loss; that we will have said goodbye to an exemplary
educator and human being. Itis altogether fitting that we should honour her
today as she has honoured education by her selflessness,devotion,and
concern.
GERRY TREBLE
SUPERINTENDENT OF EDUCATION
Gerry Treble is another example of an administrator who has pursued his
passion and allowed our system to reap the benefits of his energies.Gerry
has spent all but one of his 35 years as an educator in the London area.In
1966,he started his career at Huron Heights Public School and in 1968,he
accepted a position withthe Department of Indian Affairsat Lac La Croix. In
1969,the London Board welcomed him back to resume his career in this area.
Since that time he has held the position of guidance counsellor,consultant,
vice-principal, principal,and program supervisor. He retires this year as a
Superintendent of Education at the CEC-East in Woodstock.
i believe that Gerry can best be characterized as a man who is always there
when you need him. On a personal level, I have sincerely appreciated his
willingness to step in and represent me at functions that I'm unable to attend
because I've been called away to another commitment.I always know that I
2001 June 26...194
cancounton his professionalism,andthat he consistently role models the
values that are characteristic of cur system.
He Isapersonwho takes every opportunity to lend ahand,toaddress conflict
situations and find a resolution that everyone involved can support.
Throughouthiscareer, he has handleda plethoraofsituations,some ofthem
extremelydelicateand volatile.Yet,oneach occasion, he has handled them
with discretion,tact,compassion and competence.
No one will ever knowhowmany children he has helped over tfie years; how
muchpain he has soothed; howmany lives he has touched; or how many
personal problems he has helped solve. He has been described as the
"ultimate gentleman"because he is that kind of person-one whose quiet
competenceandgentleness reaches outwhen difficult situationsarise without
fanfare or need for recognition.
Gerryhas made a significant contribution toThames Valley.We will miss his
uniquestyle, leadership and compassion that has helped create our caring
learning community.
Trustees Joyce Bennett and Peter Jaffe congratulation LindaPeck and GerryTreble
fortheirexemplary careers and the professionalismthey displayed overtheir many
years of serving students noting they will be missed by allwho have worked with
them.
Congratulationswere extended tothe following staffforspecial recognitionsreceived;
ARTS AND ENTERTAlNfk^ENT CHANNEL
CANADIAN TEACHER GRANT
To Sue Stevens,Woodstock Collegiate Institute teacher,for vanning the
prestigiousArtsand Entertainment (A&E)channel Canadian Teacher Grant
competitions fordeveloping an AncientEgyptVisualArtscurriculum plan
using A&E Cable in the Classroom programming sponsored by Rogers
Cable.
2001 KENNETH D.FRYER AWARD
To the Mathematics Department at Parkside Collegiate Institute, St.
Thomas,winners of the 2001 Kenneth D. Fryer Award,presented by the
Ontario Association for Mathematics Education (CAME)forthe continual
demonstration of excellence in mathematics education and the overall
development of studies beyond the classroom.
2001 June26...195
PRIME MINISTER'S AWARD FOR TEACHING EXCELLENCE
To BernieLawrence,Brick Street P.S. teacher, London,recipient ofthe
Prime Minister'sAwardsforTeaching Excellence. Berniewas recognized
for his Involvement in the Alternative Parent Participating Learning
Experience (APPLE).
To Dale Hubert,Wilfrid Jury P.S.teacher,London, recipient ofthe Prime
Minister'sAwards forTeaching Excellence.Dale was recognized for his
FlatStanley Project, an internet-based learning initiative whichpromotes
literacy through letter writing between students from around the world.
DR.HARRY PAIKIN AWARD OF MERIT
ToTrustee Joyce Bennett whowas honoured bythe Ontario PublicSchool
Board Association (OPSBA)withthe Dr.HarryPaikin Award of Merit. The
Awardis presented annually to a retired or active school board trustee who
has demonstrated outstanding service as a trustee.
79.CONFLICTS OF INTEREST -No conflicts of interest were declared.
CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES
80-A. The minutes ofthe Regular Board meeting of 2001 May 22 were adopted
on motion of D.Anstead and P.Schuyler.
80-B.The minutes ofthe Special Board meeting of 2001 May 29 were adopted
on motion of D.Anstead and P.Schuyler.
REPORTS FROM THE ADMINISTRATION
81-A.Director's Announcements
INCREASE IN SECONDARY CLASS SIZE RATIO
The Administration presented a report requesting that the secondary
maximumPupil Teacher Ration(PTR)be adjusted in accordance withthe
provisions contained in Bill 80.
On 2001 June 12,Minlsterof Education Janet Ecker introduced Bill80,The
Stability and Excellence in Education Act,indicatingthe legislationwould
"allowa school board to pass a resolution to vary the maximum average
class size in its high school by up to one student.This would provide
boards with flexibility to access resources that could be used for local
priorities to meet the needs of students forquality education".
2001 June 26...196
Administration advised trustees that, by passing the motion,flexibility
would be createdto provide greateraccess to remedial programs,use of
on-call teachers and supervision duties. The motion was structured in
contemplationof Bill 80 receiving Royal Assent by2001 June 28.
Recommendation:
1.That the Board adjust the secondary average class ratio of 21:1
established inthe Education Act,Section 170.1(3)such that itnot exceed
22:1forthe purposeofaddressing workload issues and to encourage the
re-establishmentof co-instructional activities pendingthe passage ofthe
necessary legislation and regulation.
The recommendation was adopted on motion of P. Jaffe and G. Hart.
81-B.Departmental Updates
The Administration presented departmental updates on the following
issues:
Business Services
- A comprehensive year-end reviewforthe period 2000 June - 2001 June
was provided.Major accomplishments, future departmental goals and
objectives forthe Executive Superintendent were presented,as wellas
forthe following department sections:Rnance,Payroll,Facility Services,
Support Services,DistributionCentre,Printingand Mail Services,Supply
Management and Transportation Services.
Directors Services
- The Director met with provincial/local ETFO and OPC representatives
re:joint staff P.D.support for teachers and administrators;
- The Director attended the followng meetings/events:Riverview KIwanIs
meeting on May23;Task Force on Effective Schools meeting inToronto;
Marlon Rhoden,the newly-elected Student Trustee;London Council of
Home and School Associations Annual Banquet;Board of Directors for
the Boys' and Girls'Memorial Club;Attainment of Our Vision Facilitator
In-service Session;Shawn Elliott,CEO of the London YMCA-YWCA and
Board member Erin Rankin-Nash;Director and the London Catholic
District School Board Executive Council;Broadway Elementary School
Closing Ceremonies;Children's Hospital Tel-a-thon;TVDSB Retirement
Reception:Ryerson P.S.teachers Masters of Education interview;
OSSTF and ETFOannual banquets;and Regional Education Council;
2001 June 26...199
b)All energy efficiency upgrades and retrofits will be approved bythe
Board and this work tendered and installed with Ontario Hydro
Energy acting as project managers providingall engineering and
site supen/ision support.
c) Once energy efficiency upgrades and retrofits are completed and
accepted bythe Board,OntarioHydroEnergy will assume the utility
bills for the schools and the Board will continue to pay pre-energy
efficient upgrades utility costs until the capital costs, project
management fees and interest are paid off.
d)Ontario Hydro Energy will calculate the payback period for each
grouping of schools forthe Board's approval priorto starting the
upgrades.If the energy savings at the end ofthe guarantee period
have not been realized forany school by the end ofthe payback
period,then Ontario Hydro Energy will assume any outstanding
balance forthe upgrades forthat school.Ifthe energy savings are
greater than anticipatedforany facility,then the payback periodis
reduced and the Board will realize all energy savings created by
the upgrades or retrofits once the project balance Is zero.
In addition to the energy efficient upgrades and retrofits. Ontario Hydro
Energy will provide the following sen/ices at no additional cost:
a) Consultation services fornegotiatingcommoditypricederegulation
for electricity. The scope of workwould include: reviewof future
power needs,seminars forthe Boardstaff on the future electricity
marketplace,development of power procurement strategies and
development ofan action plan to approach the market.
b) Further advice and explanation as tothe operations of all warranty
items installed.
c) Training/education support including:seminars/workshops on
energy management for the custodians,information and displays
of energy management devices and literature forstudents and staff
of the Board.
d}Documentation and calculations for emission reduction credits
required bythe Federal Government as part ofthe KyotoProtocol.
e)Submission of necessary documentation NRCan financial incentive
program offered bythe Federal Government.
2001 June26...197
•Public Affairs updates:Links to Community,Retirement Recognition
Reception,Recognition Practices Sub-Committee,Thames Valley
Education Foundation,Lawson LiteraryAwards,Department Planning;
• Staff Development Initiatives highlighted.
Human Resource Services
-New provincial School Council Handbookpreparations undenvay;
- Sixkeystrategic directions for Human Resourcesbeingestablished;
• A Harassment Brochurefor ail employees has been developed;
-Benefits enrolment for retiring staff underway;
•Additional names added to ES and SS Occasional Teachers list;
• Pool hiringcompleted for30 elementary French teacher positions;
- Airquality Issues being addressed;
- CUPE4222 JointSafe/Early Returnto WorkProgram being developed.
Operations Services
- Year-end reportreviewwith Superintendents and Principalsunderway;
-Enrolment and Staffing issues for next year being considered;
-EQAO Grade 3/6 Assessment reports beingprepared forSeptember;
- Survey on Math teaching practices/schoolprofessional life completed;
-Research &Assessment supporting ongoing Initiatives;
- Planning and School Accommodationupdate provided;
-Trillium Implementation in final stages;
• New Administrators Inservlce for PrincipalsA/ice Principals;
-Safe Schools Act inservice sessions completed;
-Ross S.S.,calendar resubmitted to Ministry;
-Summer school planning underway.
Program Services
- Trilliumrolled out to every school;
• Newlibraryautomation system nowactivated;
•Language Portfolioinitiatives highlighted;
-Thames RiverProject:Building Bridgesat LRAHM from Nov.to Jan.;
-Children's Safety Village officially opened 2001 May 04;
-Summer Institutes registration completed 2001 May31;
• P.O. planning forStudent Learning,Building Our Capacity on Oct.26;
2001 June 26...19S
V
- Gr. 7 &8 History/Geography units Inservice during Summer Institute;
- History Team reviewng/revising Gr.10 Civics and Gr.11 Parenting;
- Videoof"The Typical Dayinthe Life of a NativeStudent" being taped;
- Partnership for Excellence initiative update provided;
- Early Childhood Development Centres in 4 community school sites;
- Additional support for 19 schools for nutrition/breakfast programs;
-Secondary Group Counselling model established;
- New Policy established re;Gender Equity in Elementary Athletics;
-Hundreds of students participating inthe Ontario Exemplar Project;
- Dailyphysical activity during instructional time being Implemented;
• School to Work Transition initiatives underway;
-Secondary school sports update provided;
'Student Health and Safety Forum held 2001 May 09;
• Information Technology updating Computer Security procedures
-Computer Virus Detection and Eliminationbeing upgraded;
- Reduction of Continuing Education program staffing costs underway.
82.Energy Management Agreement •Pilot Program
The Administration presented a report requesting approval to enter intoan
Energy Management Agreement with Ontario Hydro Energy to provide
project management services regarding the supply,installation,
commissioning and guarantee of energy savings for the equipment
installed in approved Board facilities.
Ontario Hydro Energy,owned by the Ontario Provincial Government,
introduced a pilotprogram specifically designed forOntario school boards.
The Program was developed to provide unique solutions to address energy
issues facing educational institutions. Ontario Hydro Energy is targeting
energy efficient lighting,building controls,HVAC equipment and other
energy management upgrades that aschool board can implement to cover
their increasing energy costs.The Thames Valley District School Board
has been selected to participate in the program.Trustees were advised
that it addresses the Board's concerns regarding energy consumption
within schools and administration facilities.
The basis forthe Energy Management Program was presented as follows:
a) The Board's facilities will be broken into groups of ten. The
facilities will be audited for energy consumption with respect to
equipment and building systems.Detailed analysis will be
completed and a realistic payback period is to be calculated (5.6
to 6 years)for each grouping.
2001 June 26...20Q
Energyefficiency upgrades and retrofitsincludingengineering and project
management will be recovered from the energysavings achievedoverthe
scheduled pay back period. The total estimated energy savings forthe
Board for all its facilities once energy efficient upgrades and retrofits are
completed is between $3.5 to $4 Million per year with these savings
beginning In approximately five years.
Building audit and engineering to proceed immediatelywithall upgrades
and retrofits to be completed by 2002 Fall.
The following recommendation was moved by L.Stevenson,seconded by G. Hart
and adopted:
That the Board enter into the Proposed Energy Management Agreement with
Ontario Hydro Energy Incorporated.
REPORTS OF COMMITTEES
83-A. SPECIAL EDUCATION ADVISORYCOMMITTEE 2001 May 22
12:00-4:00 p.m.
Members
J. Bennett,Chairperson
L.Stevenson
P.Gillis
M.Secco
L.Vince
E. Hager
A.Morse
W.Graham
L.D'Ariano
C.Hawthorne
B.Hurwitz
M.Tucker
P.Gallin
W.Gowers
P.Sattler
Administration and Others
P. Askey
B.Merifield
J.Thorpe
K.Dalton
W.Scott
Regrets:C.Cochrane,J. Williamson,G. McGahey. B. Hopkins,
Guest Trustee:D.Anstead
1.CHAIRPERSON'S REMARKS
Chairperson Bennett welcomed everyone to the meeting.
2.CONFLICTS OF INTEREST
No conflicts of interest were declared.
3.CONFIRMATION OF AGENDA
The agenda was confirmed.
^2001 June 26...201
4.REPORT OF SEAC MEETING -2001 APRIL 17
The report of the 2001 April 17 meeting was reviewed.
5.SPECIAL EDUCATION FOCUS RECOMMENDATIONS -2001 -2002
The Committee considered the recommendations and suggestions
generated from the review of the Special Education Plan for 2001-2002.
Bob Merifleld,Learning Supervisor,advised that to ensure Ministry
standards are incorporated into the Special Education Plan an auditing
process is being conducted by Program Services.Bob advised that the
review of Developmental Classes and Special Learning Classes is to be
presented at the 2001 June 05 meeting.
Carol Hawthorne,Ontario Association for Families of Children with
Communication Disorders (OAFCCD),asked why the Steps for Success
program is not available to secondary school students?Bob Merifield
explained that the Steps for Success Class Program is designed as a short
term level of inten/ention (not normally exceeding five month placement)
with the transition back to the home school as the imperative goal of the
program. He emphasized that l^ndergarten to OAC intervention for
behavioural needs is most effective when identification has occurred in the
early formative years.
It was suggested that a third statement,as follows, be added to Steps for
Success recommendation:
Reviewprograms and services availableto support planningto address
behavioural issues of secondary school students ensuring transition
planning resources are used bystaff and parents.
SEAC was reminded that the SpecialEducation focus recommendations and
suggestions is an internal document forstaff use;a vehicle to reaffirm that
prioritiesare compliantwiththe Special Education Plan and the Education
Act.
During a discussion regarding the development of a Multiple Keys to
Literacy Resource Handbook for principals and school staff, it was
requested that parents also need to be recipients of this resource.Bob
Merifield advised that the Handbook is intended to be an operational guide
for school staff.Bob Merifield will take the matter under advisement.
2001 June 26...202
Becky Hunivitz,Associationfor Bright Students (ABC),asked the questions:
"How is the Individual Education Plan (lEP)being actualized?Are the
programs identified being delivered? Is the lEP process being audited?"
Bob Merifield advised that the focus over the next few years will be to
ensure that the delivery of programs and services clearly reflects the
expectations.Itwas noted that procedures are being utilizedwithin the
schools and audited through Principals and Superintendents of Education
to ensure that the criteria set out Inthe Special Education Plan are being
incorporated.
Becky Hurwitzemphasized that the role ofSEACisto monitor that Individual
Education Plan documentation is In place and expectations and outcomes
are being achieved.Thisyear, duringthe review of Developmental Classes
and Special Learning Classes there should be an auditing process for
evaluating the effectiveness of these classes.
Chairperson Bennett advised that the recommendations and suggestions
will remain a Program Services focus during the next year and that ample
opportunity will be given for SEACto provide Input. Bob Merifeld advised
that these recommendations will be incorporated by Program Sen/ices staff
during the 2001-2002 year.It was suggested that the focus
recommendations/suggestions be Included on the 2001 Septemberagenda.
In response to a question regarding the status ofthe Developmental Class
Program review, Bob Merifield advised that Program Services staff have
established an Action Plan and recommendations,as well as reorganized
Learning Coordinator responsibilitiesand timelines. Principals have been
assigned to review special education programs and prepare individual
school gap analysis. Principals will be submittingan action plan fortheir
school to their Area Superintendent of Education by 2001 October 31. Itis
anticipated that SEACreceive a report of action plan Implementations and
recommendations during 2001 November.
6.PROGRAM SERVICES REORGANIZATION FOR 2001 -2002
Bob Merifield explained some of the changes within the Learning
Coordinators'portfolios resulting from the reorganization of Program
Services.There are presently eleven Learning Coordinators,nine have
area initiatives and two have system initiatives.Issues and Initiatives for
next year will primarily focus on staff development and auditing to ensure
procedures are Inplace and schoolstaffare being supported.Itwas noted
that changes to the Intensive Support Allocation fundingcriteria will result
in huge rmpllcatlons forSpecial Education, and, therefore, a new system
portfolioof ISALearning Coordinator was assigned.
2001 June 26...203
A questions and answer period followed.
LindaVince,CommunityLiving EducationCommittee,requested information
regarding the level of support provided for elementary and secondary
developmentally challenged students in the Speech and Language area.
Bob Merifield reported that the only differences would be based on the
needs of the student.Bob suggested that Rosine Salazer,Coordinator,
Speech and Language Services,provide a report at the 2001 June 05
meeting.Bob advised that Special Class placements are being reviewed
with some changes inthe area of accessing resources.Itwas suggested
that a detailed review of all special learning classes as it relates to
accessing system resources be presented at a subsequent meeting (2001
September).
INTENSIVE SUPPORT AMOUNT (ISA)
Copies of the Ministry of Education Guidelines for School Boards entitled,
Student-Focused Funding, Intensive Support Amountwere distributed.
Trustee Linda Stevenson requested clarification regarding the eligibility
criteriaforIntensiveSupportAmountfunding. Bobreported that the Ministry
allocates funds based on school boards'needs and that often a large
volume of supporting documentationis required.Significant changes in
cognitive and academic achievement levels from the Program Services'
perspective will have huge implications for larger boards.
Trustee Stevenson requested Information regarding Special Incidence
Portion (SIP)applications. Itwas reported that SIP funding is available for
students that require the support of more than two full-time staff for the
safety ofthe applicant student or other students and that the Thames Valley
Board has presently no students that qualify for SIP funding.
Clarification was requested regardingthe numberofclaimssubmittedbythe
Board for ISA Level 1-Specialized Equipment Funding.Bob Merifield
advised that he will speak with John Van Kessel, Principal, W.D.Sutton,
regarding this matter and report back at the June meeting.
Patti Gillis,Integration Action Group,advised that further to the profiles
shared today the Ministry's ISA Working Groupis lookingfor feedback from
SEAC's Associations regarding improvingthe process.Patti requested that
comments/suggestion be forwarded by E-mail to Stephanie Dawson,
Education Finance Branch (steDhan}&.dawson(S)edu.QOv.on.ca by 2001
June 01.
2001 June 26...2Q4
Bob Merifield and Gwen Orr,Learning Coordinator,will be submitting input
tothe ISAWorking Group;as well,Peter Askey,inhis capacity as President
of OPSOA will be making a submission.
Lisa D'Artano,Learning Disability Association,(LDA)asked the question:
"What percentage of boards across the province receive funding?" Bob
Merifield responded that approximately1.5% of students qualify for ISA
funding and that smaller boards may have higher percentages.Lisa asked
if efforts are being made to track ISAclaims across the province. Lisa
emphasized that the collection of such data could result Inlowering the bar
to allow more boards to qualify for additional funding.Trustee Stevenson
advised that she will be attending a meeting of Ontario Public School
Boards' Association (OPSBA)on 2001 May24 and will be raising SEAC's
concerns and asking questions regarding funding issues (e.g.ISA,
transportation).
The Committee recessed from 1:45 p.m.-1:55 p.m.
7.BUDGET UPDATE
Executive Superintendent Askey advised that Executive Council has been
meeting to discuss the 2001-2002 Preliminary Budget as it relates to the
recent announcement from the Ministry of Education.Peter reviewed the
comments that the Executive Superintendent of Business Services
presented at the 2001 May 01 meeting regarding the 2001-2002 Budget
pressures which include;increases in utilities,secondary casual salary
accounts,transportation,elementary lunchroom supervisors and employee
benefits.As well,the Board has submitted a deficit reduction plan to the
Ministry to address prioryear shortfalls. Peter advised that inthe past year
the Special Education envelope have been overspent by $1.8 Million.
Itwas emphasized that whilethe Board remains committedto maintaining
a high level of Special Education programs and services across the District
strategies for reducing the $1.8 Million over-expenditure must become a
priority and may result In reduction to services.SEAC was cautioned
regarding focusing on staffing numbers at this time since a commitment to
a global plan in the area of programs and services has not been
determined.
Executive Superintendent Askey advised that the draft Preliminary 2001-
2002 Budget isto be presented tothe Trustees at a Special Board meeting
scheduled for2001 May 29.Itis anticipated that Budget information will be
available to SEAC by E-mail on 2001May 30.The final approval of the
2001-2002 Budget is scheduled for 2001 June 12.
2001 June 26...205
A question and answer period followed.
In response to the question,"Could we ask students to walk a little farther
toschool"?,PeterAskeyadvisedthat under the current transportation likely
the maximumthat students can be expected towalkconsidering their ages,
safety hazard issues,and the distance walked by students in the
coterminous board.
Trustee Peggy Sattler asked,'Why is the Special Education funding
envelope worse?Peter Askey advised that student enrolment is down and
the increase of services in some regular lines have escalated due to
escalating employee wage packages.There is a trend ofmore high needs
students moving into the District resulting in the need for additional
Education Assistants and transportation services.
The Committee considered howto state its case withthe fwlinistry regarding
additional funding requirements to ensure that every exceptional child
receives the programs and services necessary.ISA funding and
transportation issues must be backed up with substantial data to ensure that
the Ministry understands the need for adequate funding.Executive
Superintendent Askey reminded SEAC that Trustees Bennett,Stevenson
and Sattler will bring these concerns/issues to the Board table during the
budget deliberations. Itwas suggested that SEAC consider requesting that
the Board direct the Administration to prepare a case statement regarding
Special Education funding for submission to the Ministryof Education and
copied to ProvincialSEACs.Peter Askey stated that the criteria forthe case
statement may be gleaned from the reports of the last 2 or 3 SEAC
meetings.
JillWorthington,VOICE,stated that the covering letter that accompanies the
Special Education Plan to the Minister must alert the Ministryto recognize
that the Thames Valley DistrictSchool Board is now geographically much
larger and therefore, Special Education transportation funding must be
provided.
8.SPECIAL EDUCATION ANNUAL PLAN
Executive Superintendent Askey explained that the elementary and
secondary staffing sections of the Special Education Plan cannot be
finalizeduntilthe 2001-2002 Budget has been approved.
Carol Havrihorne,OAFCCD,distributed copies of her suggested
amendments to the Special Education Plan.
2001 June 26...206
The draftSpecial Education Planwas reviewed and amended to reflectthe
discussions.
BUSINESS ARISING FROM SPECIAL EDUCATION PLAN REVIEW
Lisa D'Ariano.Learning Disabilities Association (LDA).requested that the
availability of the Special Education Parent Guide be conveyed to
parents/guardians via the September and January school newsletter.
Itwas also suggested that producing a 15-20 minute video regarding the
IPRC process would help parents/guardians become familiar wth the
process.Itwas suggested that the Administration distribute a memorandum
to Principals In September requesting that copies ofthe Individual Education
Plan,Parent's Guide and SPA Parent Guide be posted ina prominent place
in every school indicating that copies are available inthe office.
Becky Hurwitz, Association for Bright Children (ABC),reiterated that
information be presented regarding early identification plans,placement In
rural areas for special learning classes and the criteria foridentifyinggifted
children in early grades.Becky also requested that a memorandum
regarding revision to the process for special education consideration be
given with a view to reorganizing the next Special Education Plan by
exceptionality.
Alison Morse,Easter Seal Society,requested that next year consideration
be given to the development ofpoliciesbetween school boards and Health
Support Services.
Following an extensive review of the draft Report to the Minister of
Education on the Reviewof the Provision of Special Education Programs
and Special Education Services, (Special Education Plan) for 2001-2002,
was supported,inprinciple,subject to 2001-2002 Budget approval.
9.ADJOURNMENT
The meeting adjourned at 4:00 p.m.
JOYCE BENNETT,
Chairperson
2001 June 26...207
83-B.SPECIAL EDUCATION ADVISORY
COMMITTEE
Members
J.Bennett,Chairperson
P.Gillis
P.Gallin
E.Hager (-2:25)
A.Morse
C.Hawthorne
L.D'Arlano
M.Tucker
B.Hopkins
W.Gowers
P.Sattler
L.Vince
L.Stevenson
2001 June 05
12:00 p.m.-3:50 p.m.
Administration and Others
P.Askey
J.Thorpe
8.Merifield
L.Pressey
K.Dawson
V.Corcoran
J. Tyler
R.Guthrie
B.Connell
C.Ekins
L. Phillips
C.Laine
W.Scott
Regrets:G. McGahey, B.Hurwitz,W.Graham,J. Williamson, C.Cochrane
Guests:C.Laine
Guest Trustee:D.Anstead
1.CHAIRPERSONS REMARKS
Chairperson Joyce Bennett welcomed everyone.John Thorpe,Executive
Superintendent of Program Service designate,introduced Vicki Corcoran,
newly appointed to the position of Learning Supervisor.Vicki is presently
the principal at Princess Elizabeth P.S.,and brings to the position broad-
based experience fromthe two predecessor boards.Vicki will be replacing
Bob Merifield who is retiring at the end of the academic year.
Chairperson Bennett introduced Colin Laine who is representing the
Association for BrightChildren (ABC)in Becky Hurwtz's absence and will
be providing the Association's perspective regarding the Gifted Screening
Pilot Project.
2.ADMINISTRATION RETIREMENTS
Chairperson Bennett expressed appreciation on behalf ofSEAC and special
needs students to Peter Askey, Executive Superintendent,Program
Sen/ices and Bob Merifield,Learning Supervisor,who are both retiring 2001
June.Their combined commitment and guidance has been exemplary
towards special needs students and SEAC especially through the many
changes that resulted from amalgamation.
A special retirement cake prepared by Ross S.S.students to celebrate the
occasion was presented.
2001 June 26...208 .^
I
Peter Askey responded byexpressing his thanks to Bob Merifield forbeing
committed "heart and soul" to the Learning Supervisor position and to the
needs of exceptional students.Inspite ofoften taking harsh criticismand
phone calls on behalf of Board and Program Sen/ices,Bob has remained
steadfast.During the difficult process ofamalgamation Bobwas recognized
by colleagues forhistalent and perseverance as the front guyon a day by
day basis.
Bob Merifield expressed that it has truly been a privilege to have been
employed in avocation that he lovesand tohave experienced opportunities
to growthrough his relationshipswithpeople. Bob congratulated Executive
Superintendent Peter Askeyforbeing a strong leader and visionary working
together with all staff and sharing the same passionate commitment to
public education before and after amalgamation.
3.No conflicts of interest were declared.
4.CONFIRMATION OF AGENDA
The agenda was confirmed.
5. REPORT OF SEAC MEETING - 2001 May 01
The report of the 2001 May01 meeting was reviewed.
6.EXECUTIVE SUPERINTENDENTS ANNOUNCEMENTS
Peter Askey advised that Executive Council has been meeting regarding
the 2001-02 Preliminary Budget recommendation for presentation to the
Committee of the Whole meeting on 2001 June 05.Peter advised that
Executive Superintendent,Business Services Brian Greene and Jim
McKenzie,Manager,Finance will be reviewingthe major issues surrounding
the staffing reductions for Special Education.
7.SPECIAL EDUCATION FUNDING FOR 2001-02 PRELIMINARY BUDGET
Executive Superintendent Greene and Jim McKenzie,Manager,Finance,
joined the meeting and presented information regarding the Special
Education Funding for the 2001-02 Preliminary Budget.
Executive Superintendent Greene advised thattheBoardmust address prior
years'deficits, salary increases,rising costs of benefits,growth in the
special education area,utility Increases,student transportation and general
inflationary Increases.These deficitshave resulted ina budget shortfallof
$22.3M for 2001-2002.The Board's funding increase of .9% will be
consumed by prior years'deficits, rising utility costs and student
transportation costs.
2001 June 26...209
Jim McKenzie explained the following analysis of the 2001-2002 Special
Education revenues and expenditures:
Special Education Funding:Preliminary 2001-02 Budget
Description 2000-2001 2001-2002
Total Revenues (includes Partnerships $ 59 767 983 $ 58 934 131
for Excellence)
Expenditures
Special Education Programs 58 593 034 57 002 623
Partnership for Excellence Program 5 502 736 5 483 816
Total Expenditures 62 095 770 62 488 239
Expenditures in Excess of Ministry $ 2 327 787 $ 3 552 108
Funding
A lengthy discussion followed.
Executive Superintendent Askey provided a report of the proposed 2001-
2002 reductions of educational assistants and professional/para-
professional staff forspecial education programs.
Lisa DIAriano,Learning Disabilities Association (LDA),requested
clarification regarding funding forspecialeducationstaffingand whymoney
cannot be used from other envelopes.
Brian Greene advised that during the preparation of the budget,
assumptions were calculated within the Ministry's funding and that special
education expenditures continue to be significantly above the funding
envelope. Itwas noted that an increase of $1.6 Million above the special
education envelope Is inviolationofthe trustee's mandate to livewithinthe
funding envelopes.
Lisa D'Ariano,LDA,asked ifa review is being conducted regarding the
Partnership forExcellence Initiative to ensure that this funding is making a
difference for students. Superintendent John Thorpe advised that the
criteria forthe Partnership forExcellence fundingrequires that the Ministry
of Education receive an assessment of the effectiveness of the program.
2001 June 26...210
Alison Morse,Easter Seal Society,suggested that special education is
tailing more staffing reductions than any other area.Alison expressed
concern that reducing Speech-language Pathologists by fivepositions will
resuit in students not receiving the necessary services next year and will
mean higher case loads for the remaining Pathologists.
Peter Askey reported that the proposed reductions for professional support
staff (e.g.psychologists,speech and language pathologists and attendance
counsellors)will be achieved through attrition. The staffing reductions being
considered will mean reduced service levels and longer waiting times forthe
sen/ices affected.The Administration will be making decisions Inan effort
to ensure a consistency of services exists across the District.
Carol Hawthorne.Ontario Association for Families of Children with
Communication Disorders,OAFCCO,asked if students that are not identified
receive funding through the special education envelope?Bob Merifieid
advised that approximately 9,500 students are not formally identified and
are receiving services.Bobwas requested to provide the actual number of
elementary and secondary congregated classrooms in the system for the
next meeting.
Colin Laine, ABC,suggested that the point has now been reached where
the Ministry of Education does not provide adequate funding necessary for
the delivery of programs and services to all students in the system.
Colin sited that boards of education may need to consider the London
IHealth Science Centre's approach to a similar situation.T?ie government
needs to see that boards of education have reached the 'lowest common
denominator"in providing services across the Valleyand must be given the
same kinds of sanctions.The importance of communicating to the public
that sufficientfundsto support publiceducation are not being received and
that the Ministry ofEducationmustfindsolutionsto these fundingshortfalls
was expressed.
In response to a question regarding adequate inservice training forLearning
Support Teachers and regular classroom teachers Peter Askey explained
that staff development is a prioritybeing addressed bythe Program Service
department.Subject Councils for elementary and secondary teachers are
being scheduled for the end of the teaching day with early release to
eliminate additionalcosts forsupply teachers.
2001 June 26...211
Jill Worthington,VOICE,asked ifthe Ministry recognizes the difficulty that
boards are experiencing with increased transportation costs?Executive
Superintendent Greene advised that assistance was received from the
Ministry last year to address escalating fuelcosts; however, no additional
funding was receivedwhenthe 2001-2002 budget figureswere released.
Carol Hawthorne,OAFCCD,asked whogoes to the provinceregardingthe
lackofsufficientfunding? ExecutiveSupt.Greene advised that CODEand
OPSBA are strongly lobbyingthe Ministry foradditional funds. Itwas noted
that there is a need forthe parents/community to understand this issue and
voice their concerns to the government.
Linda Vince,Community Living Education Committee,emphasized that
Individuals andAssociationsmust lobbythegovernmentand sitedexamples
where the grassroots approach resulted in significant changes occurring,
(e.g. additionalmoneyforaccommodationsto support aging parents with
adults with developmental disabilities stilllivingat home).
LindaVince,advisedthat reductionsinspecial educationstaffingwhenthe
Developmental sector is already lacking support should not be considered.
Ifa further shortage of Educational Assistants occurs,training students for
work experience,a priority in helping them to secure employment, may
become difficult to administer.Educational Assistants act as advocates for
students inthe community;eliminating theirpresence will lowerthe student's
confidence and responsibility. Linda emphasized that the critical nature of
making these staffingreductions must be conveyed to the Board.
Bob Merifield reaffirmed that workexperience is a critical component of
special education programs. Program Services using existing staff will
endeavour to focus on improving and prioritizing the work experience
component of secondary developmental programs.
Aquestion was asked regardingthe current waiting timefor psychological
assessments.ExecutiveSupt. Askeyadvised that usually it takes 6 weeks
for beginning discussions to determine ifan assessment should be done,
and 8-10 weeks for the testing to be completed. It was noted that
reductions in Professional and Para-Professional lines may necessitate in
the hiringof additional Psychometrists. Trustee Peggy Sattler expressed
concerns with raising expectations wdth parents/guardian that cannot be
met. Supt. Askey reported that a Program Services priority will be to
2001 June 26...212
develop recommendations that ensure the delivery ofdirectservices,and
efficient testingand assessments.Psychologistcurrently are processing40
assessments a year with an increase anticipatedfornextyear.Itwas noted
that Professionals/Para-Professionals staff may be forced to reprioritize
other areas of responsibility.Trustee Sattier emphasizedthat the impactof
these reductions must be communicated to the government and
community.
CarolHawthorne,OAFCCD,suggested that Ministry ofHealthfundingrather
than education dollars should be paying for a sector of students that are
assessed as mentally ill.
Trustee Linda Stevenson reported that last year SEAC set a bar for
expanding special education programs and services and asked, Whyis
SEACentertainingthe proposed reductions this year?What has changed?
Trustee Stevenson emphasized that parents need to lobby the Ministry of
Education,MPsand MPPs regarding the special education funding and that
SEAC must clearly state It's case,emphasizing the pressure points that
must be addressed.
Wayne Gower suggested that SEAC not endorse the 2001-2002 Special
Education Plan and requested that Chairperson Bennett advise the Ministry
of its decision.
Executive Superintendent Askey advised that he will seek legal advise
regarding the implications to the Board for not endorsing the 2001-2002
Special Education Plan.
Following the discussion a motion by Mary Ann Tucker that the 2001 -2002
Special Education Plan be approved,inprinciple,as outlined butthat SEAC
has serious reservations with the Board's capacity to implement the Plan
and encouraged the Boardto reconsider the Special Education 2001-2002
Budget reductions,was carried.
A motion by Carol Hawthorne that the SEAC Communication Committee
reconvene to consider multiple communication strategies for lobbying the
Ministry of Education,MPs and MPPs regarding special education funding
was carried.
Itwas requested that a special meeting of SEAC be held on 2001 June 16
from 8:30 a.m.•10:30 a.m.
2001 June 26...213
8.GIFTED SCREENING PILOT PROJECT
Rob Guthrie. Measurennent & Evaluation Assistant, reviewed the key
findings of a study examining the effects of Inservice training of Grade 4
teachers on the Renzuilli Checklist of Learning Characteristics.Sixteen
schools volunteered to participate inthe Project which involved two groups
(Experimental and Control) of Learning Support Teachers each receiving
specific inservice training.
A summary of different methods to selecting students for WISCs and the
percent of students meeting WISC exceptionality criteria was reviewed.
Aportion ofthe test showed the differences of teacher nominating students
before and after the inservice training. Before the teacher inservice training
21% were nominated after training 29%were nominated showing a slight
rise but not a marked increase.Rob Guthrie advised that based on the data
none of the instruments was a strong predictor ofidentified students.Itwas
reported that inservice training for Learning Support teachers did not have
a profound effect. Atotal of554 students participated inthe study and were
grouped by Otis-Lennon School Ability Test (OLSAT)and Renzuili Scores.
A question-and-answer period followed.
Colin Laine, ABC,commented that after in-service training no specific
difference emerged other than a trend in correlations.Itwould appear that
in-service training did not contribute to teachers'behaviour being
significantly improved in their method of selecting and identifying gifted
exceptional students.
Wayne Gower. Alliance of Home and School Councils suggested that the
Gifted Screening Pilot project be conducted again next year to measure
results and identifyifsome childrenwere missed. Karen Dalton, Principal,
commented that Psychological Services conducted the project to assist in
observing the current process,assess outcomes and practices that ensure
students are being identified and ensure that next steps are in place.
Colin Laine, ABC,stated that this is a temporary measure and even if
somewhat inefficient proceed to use it;and,although teacher in-service is
the poorest indicator in terms of accuracy of the process,improvement
should occur as appropriate in-service focussing on the identification of
gifted characteristics is provided.
2001 June 26...214
Lisa D'Ariano,LDA,requested that the Administration ensure that sound
and fair research is conducted.Bob Merlfield advised that an additional 2%
of students will be identified usingthe following Gifted Screening Procedure
recommendations prepared by Bruce Connell,Psychological Services
Coordinator and endorsed by Becky Hunvitz,ABC.
1.Administer the Otis-Lennon School Ability Test (OLSAT)to allgrade
four students subject to parent's approval during the fallof 2001.
2.Students who obtain a score of 132 or above on the OLSAT will be
deemed to have met the criteria for identification intellectual -gifted.
3.Students who obtain a score of 126 to 131 inclusive on the OLSAT will
be given a WISCsubject to parental permission inorder to determine
their eligibilityfor identification.
4. School staff or parents through the PDT process may consider a
recommendation for psycho-educational assessment if there are
factors that lead them to believe that there is additional/alternative
evidence that the student isintellectuallygiftedinspite ofnot meeting
OLSAT threshold criteria.
5. The screening procedures outlined in the Special Education Plan
with the above changes to criteria thresholds will continue to be in
place for the 2001 -2002 school year untilthe Ministryof Education
releases the Program standards forgifted exceptionality.
Bob advised that OLSAT will be used in context with all other information for
the school principaland school team.Programming for all Grade 4 students
will be in place as recommended untilthe f^inistry of Education releases the
Program Standards forgifted exceptionality.
ColinLaine, ABC,asked,Will recommendation 5 change when the Ministry's
Program Standards for the gifted exceptionality is announced?and,When
the appropriate screening process is in place will it preclude other
identifications?Bob Merlfield responded that this screening process does
not preclude any earlier identificationtools.
Colin Laine expressed concern that many parents have been advised by
principals that testing procedures for giftedness are not possible until Grade
4. Itwas emphasized that a definite need for communicating the process
must be clarified at the school level. Amotion by Lisa D'Ariano and Carol
i-jawthorneto approve the Gifted Screening Procedure recommendations
was carried.
2001 June 26...215
9.GRADE 10 TEST OF READING AND WRITING
Charmaine Graves,Learning Supervisor,Language,Sheila Pale and Barb
Aharan, LiteracyInterventionTeam,presented a report responding to the
question,"What are we doing to address the Grade 10 literacytest"?
The following recommendations established to support literacy development
at the secondary school level were highlighted;
identifyingkey literacy expectations withinthe curriculum for each
subject area and within each subject-specific course.
department heads to identify and trac)^strategies for literacy
development and share at staff meetings;
teachers to incorporate key reading and writingskills outlined by
EQAO for the Secondary School Literacy Test into classroom
instruction and assessment;
devote a portion of staff meetings to Literacy Focused
Professional Development
explicitly teach "Before,During and After"Reading and writing
strategies in every subject area;
Establish a cross panel literacy team with grades 7-10 teachers
from different subject areas;
Provide students frequent opportunities to write for a variety of
purposes and audiences in all subject areas.
Develop a professional library of literacy resources for teachers;
Identify students who struggle with reading and writingin Grades
7 and 8.
Offera widerange ofcore English courses as possible especially
in grade 9 and 10;
Where possible,staff Applied and essential courses so that
teachers with a background in special education or literacy
development are teaching;
Offer ESL30 (English Literacy Skills)at the grade 11 level.
10.HEARING IMPAIRED PROGRAM
Bob Merifield,Learning Supervisor and Gwen Orr,Learning Coordinator,
Vision and Hearing Program presented a report ofthe transition planning
and harmonization of sen/ices forthe Hearing Impaired Program.
A question-and-answer period followed.
2001 June 26...216
The Hearing Impaired Programis being relocated from LomeAvenueP.S.
to Fairmont P.S. Consultations regarding the project have Involved
Audiologist,ProgramServicesstaffand Facility Servicesstafftoensure the
facilities will accommodate the program. Anevening meeting is scheduled
to be held on 2001 June 14to give parents an opportunityto tour the new
location and view the plans.
The new facility will include treatment rooms, observation area,and auditory
verbal space,improving the overall layout for the program as well as
addressing the washroom accessibility issue.Itwas noted that the Lome
AvenueP.S. locationwas challengingfor students with mobility issues.Bob
Merifield noted that allthe essential parts ofthe "Flagship Program" at Lome
Ave. P.S. are being incorporated Into the program at Fairmont.Air
conditioning is not being installed at this time due to the possible effect on
sound quality;however,this issue is still being reviewed.Additional
information will be obtained to weight the benefits against the possible
impact on the sound quality. Adecision will be made once all information
becomes available.SEAC will continue to monitor the transition of the
Hearing Impaired Program.
Trustee Peggy Sattler asked if renovations to Lome Avenue P.S., to
continue to accommodate the Hearing Impaired Program were considered.
It was reported that a study was conducted and that it was determined
relocating the program to Fairmont P.S., was a fiscally responsible move.
Trustee Sattler requested a cost analysis ofthe renovations at Fairmont P.S.
11.ADJOURNMENT
The meeting adjourned at 3:50 p.m. on motionof Patti Gillis.
Recommendation:
1. That the 2001-2002 Special Education Plan be approved,in principle,
however,that SEAC has serious reservations with the Board's capacity to
implement the Plan and encouraged the Board to reconsider the Special
Education 2001 -2002 Budget staffing reductions.
JOYCE BENNETT,
Chairperson
The recommendation was not adopted as it was superceded by SEAC's
recommendation of 2001 June 18.
2001 June 26...217
83-C.SPECIAL EDUCATION ADVISORY COMMITTEE
Members
J.Bennett,Chairperson
L.Stevenson
P.Saltier
P.Gallln
A.Morse
M.Tucker
J.Worthington
L.Vince
L. Phillips
B.Hurwitz
C.Ekins
2001 June 16
8:50 a.m.-10:55 a.m.
Administration and Others
P. Askey
B.Merifield
V.Corcoran
W.Scott
Regrets: P.Gillis,W.Gowers, E. Hager, C.Cochrane , L.D'Ariano,C. Hawthorne,
B.Hopkins,
Absent: G.McGahey,W. Graham, J. Williamson
1.CHAIRPERSONS REMARKS
Chairperson Bennett welcomed everyone.
2.CONFLICTS OF INTEREST
No conflicts of interest were declared.
3.CONFIRMATION OF AGENDA
The agenda was confirmed.
4.REPORT OF SEAC MEETING -2001 June 05
The report ofthe 2001 June 05 meeting was reviewed.
5.SPECIAL EDUCATION PLAN 2001-2002
Alison Morse,EasterSeal Society,distributed adraftlettertothe Ministry of
Educationregardingthe 2001-2002Special EducationPlan.
The draft letter, expressing SEAC's concerns with the implications of the
funding formula,was reviewed and amended to reflect the discussion.
SEAC requested that the Board include the letter with its submission of the
Special Education Plan to the Ministry of Education.
The Committee supported the following recommendation with strong
concerns expressed regardingthe inadequacy ofthe funding formula and
its impact on the implementationofthe Plan:
2001 June 26...21B
That SEACrecommends the endorsement ofthe Reporttothe Minister
of Education on the Review of the Provision of Special Education
ProgramsandSpecial Education Services,{Special EducationPlan)for
2001 - 2002;however,SEAC questions the adequacy of the revised
2001 - 2002 budget to implement the Plan and recognizes that the
funding model is the underlying problem.
Appreciation was extended to the Trustees for their commitment to the
needs ofSpecial Education students as their prioritieswere made knownto
the Administrationthrough the recommendations approved at the 2001 -2002
Budget meeting.
6.DEVELOPMENTAL CLASS PROGRAM REVIEW
Linda Vince,CommunityLiving Education Committee,represented SEAC
on the DevelopmentalClass Program ReviewCommittee. Linda advised
that over a period of several months, the committee met to categorize the
elements that would be seen in an Ideal or perfect Developmental Class
Program and Classroom.Atemplate was developed articulating the vision
and collated into ^e visionfor developmental programs,obsen/ations from
reviewvisits and recommendations.Examples ofidentified"Best Practices"
are to be used during inservice training withprincipals and staff.
BobMerifield,LearningSupervisor,advised thatthe review has been shared
with principals and staff in all schools.Principals,are expected to review
special education programs and prepare individual school gap analysis and
action plans.Principals will be submitting an action plan fortheir school to
their Area Superintendent ofEducation by 2001 October 31.Itis anticipated
that SEAC will receive a report of action plan implementation and
recommendations during 2001 November. This ActionPlan will drive staff
development and resources and willresult In substantial changes occurring
over the next two years.It was suggested that SEAC raise any questions
with Vicki Corcoran in the fall of 2001.
It was noted that Technology resources are an important tool to support
students with developmental needs and necessary to compensate fortheir
disability. Improved technology in the developmental programs and the
development of teachers'knowledge and skills related to technology for
programming will be a Program Services'focus.
Jill Worthington asked if students placed in the Special Learning Classes
and Developmentally Challenged programming are meeting the criteria
outlined in the Special Education Plan.
2001 June26...219
Bob Merifield advised that 99%of the special education students are now
matched to programs.Programming issues are based on the students
needs balancing academic,remediation,life skills,etc.as the student
becomes older. Ideally,classes should not be perceived as distinct but
rather incorporate a range ofoptions formovingthe students back and forth
according to needs.Afew exceptions will always exist in order to ensure
that students who have previously been placed in a special class are not
just removed without consideration for the student's needs.Linda Vince
suggested that parents have a responsibility inthe process of programming
to ensure that their child is receiving the necessary supports.
Linda Vince suggested that the location of the classroom is an important
component of a successful program as the parents of developmentally
challenged students demonstrated during the inception ofthe Banting S.S.
Developmental Program.
Chairperson Bennett extended SEAC's appreciation to Linda Vince for her
participation inthe Developmentally Challenged Program Review.
7.SPECIAL LEARNING CLASS PROGRAIW REVIEW
Bob l^erifield,Learning Supervisor,presented a report of the Special
Learning Class Program Review.
Itwas reported that the reviewwas conducted to provide informationon the
current status of the Special Learning Classes,to look at the consistency
and variability of programs across the district and to identify essential
components of a quality program. The review will be instrumental in
establishing directions and priorities for enhancing programs for learning
disabled students and for building staff capacity to meet the education
needs of these children.
A question-and-answer period followed.
Trustee Linda Stevenson asked,"Have we now successfully reached the
point where the right student is in the right class?"
Bob Merifield responded that the question is addressed at every meeting by
the Learning Supen/isor and Learning Coordinators as the process is
reviewed to ensure that the needs of new students do match the appropriate
program. Headvised that specific procedures will be inplace to ensure that
the program matches the student's needs.
2001 June 26...220
Trustee PeggySattleremphasized the importanceof parental involvement
duringthis process.Bob Merifield emphasized that parents/guardians are
critical staI<eholders inthe placement oftheir student as was evident by
theirparticipationinthe harmonizationofprograms and services across the
Districtfollowing amalgamation.It was suggested that a parental survey of
the Special Learning Program would be appropriate after the two-year
period of implementation.
Peter Askey suggested that differences in programming exist more often
from one classroom to another rather than from school to school.The
challenge for Program Services staff will be to focus on replicating what has
been modelled conceptionallyto clearly Identify and improvepractices.
Jill Worthington,VOICE,asked,"How will the staff development be
administered?"Bob Merifield provided information about the staff
development component and advised that a report will be presented to
SEAC in 2001 November.Cathy Ekins,Learning Disabilities Association,
asked what Inservice training is available now for teachers?What are we
doing with issues identified over the long-term?
It was suggested that \^cki Corcoran,Learning Supervisor (designate),
provide a report of the staff development Initiativesand provide a baseline
information regarding where Individual classes are?
Peter Askeycautioned SEACthat its role is notthe monitoring of programs
and services but rather to act as a watchdog through asking specific
questions to ensure the process Is moving forward. He advised that
Principals,and Superintendents ofEducationare responsiblegenericallyfor
what is happening at the system and school level.
8.Trustee Stevenson asked ifthe IPRC reviews are now officially completed.
Bob Merifield advised that a number have been completed; however,the
review process is spaced over the entire school year in many locations.
Trustee Stevenson asked how many more students have been identified or
are new to the process and whether or not there has been an increase or
decrease in the identified students.
Itwas requested that an analysis ofthe number of "de-identified"students
across the District with feedback concerning parental reaction tothe process
undertakenthisyear be presented atthe 2001Octobermeeting. Executive
Superintendent Askey advised that the Administration will prepare a
memorandum to Principals requesting the number of students that were de-
identified and any input received from parents/guardians regarding the
process.
2001 June 26...221
9.SUPERINTENDENTS REPORT
READINESS TO LEARN
Superintendent Askey reported that an overview ofthe Readiness to Learn
survey was presented to Operations'Council on 2001 June 18.Peter
advised that the survey covered fivedifferent categories (language, social,
emotional, etc.) at 47 ofthe neediest schools and that 3000 Age 5 children
were tested.
Theresults showedthat 17%were at the bottompercent ofthe projectile -
Junior Kindergarten/Senior Kindergarten children had better ranidngs than
children in Senior Kindergarten. (67% attend JK and 67% attend SK).
Whereare the four-year-olds? He suggested thatthe data gathered through
this survey will raise a number of questions for SEAC.A report of the
Readiness to Learn survey is to be presented to SEAC during 2001
September/October.
INSTRUCTIONAL TIME
Superintendent Askeyadvised that some special education students are
not receiving the required 300 minutes ofinstructional time every day. The
principals at 40 sites will be submitting a detailed report to their
Superintendent of Education to ensure that all students are receiving the
required instructional time.A report is to be presented at a subsequent
meeting.
10.The Committee met In Forum.
11.ADJOURNMENT
The meeting adjourned at 10:55 a.m. on motionof Jill Worthington.
Recommendation:
1.That SEAC recommends the endorsement of the Report to the Minister of
Educationonthe Review ofthe Provision ofSpecialEducationProgramsand
Special Education Services, (Special Education Plan) for 2001 - 2002;
however, SEAC questions the adequacy ofthe revised 2001 - 2002 budget
to implement the Plan and recognizes that the funding model Is the
underlying problem.
JOYCE BENNETT,
Chairperson
The recommendation was adopted on motionofJ. Bennett and L.Stevenson.
2001 June 26...222
83-D.EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
In accordance with Regulation 306, the Board is required to maintain a
Special Education Plan,to review itannually,to amend it from timetotime
to meet the current needs of its exceptional pupils, and to submit any
amendment(s)tothe Ministry ofEducationforreview,onor before the 31
Day of July in each year.
During the fall of 2000 the Ministry released the policy document:
Standards for School Boards' Special Education Plans. The Special
EducationAdvisoryCommittee (SEAC}has been workingwithmembers of
the ProgramServices departmentto ensure the Board's Special Education
Plan complies with the standards.Recommended changes tothe Special
Education Plan were highlighted.
At the special meeting of SEAC held 2001 June 18 the following
recommendation was unanimously approved:
That SEACrecommendsthe endorsement ofthe Report tothe Minister
of Education on the Review of the Provision of Special Education
Programs and Special education Services,(Special education Plan]
for 2001 -2002;however,SEAC questions the adequacy of the revised
2001-2002 budget to implement the Plan and recognizes that the
funding model Is the underlying problem.
SEAC has drafted a letter requesting that the Ministry of Education
reexamine the funding formulafor Special Education to recognize the high
needs of students in the Thames Valley District School Board.SEAC
requests that the Board include a copy of this letter withthe submission of
the Special Education Plan to the Ministryof Education.
Special Education programs and services are over $4.0 Million in excess
of grant revenues for Special Education.
(See recommendation 1)
The following recommendation was adopted on motion of J.Bennett and
L.Stevenson:
That the Board approve the 2001- 2002 Special Education Plan and
SEAC's letter and direct the Administration to forward both to the
Ministryof Education for approval.
2001 June26...223
83-E.REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE OF THE
WHOLE
2001 June 12
7:10 p.m.-9:40 p.m.
Members Administration and Others
D.Stewart,Chairperson J. Laughlin L.Peck
J.Bennett P.Askey J.Empringham
S.Deller P.Gryseels G.Treble
J.Hunter B. Bryce J.McKenzie
D.Anstead B.Greene S.Galati
T.Roberts J. Thorpe D.Bradford
P.Sattler C. Murphy S.Christie
S.Peters P.Mennill W.Scott
L.Stevenson L.Robertson K.Meeson
A.Cartier R. Murray J.Tllley
G.Hart
P.Jaffe
P.Doelman
Regrets:P.Schuyler
1.APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Item3e, Lampof Learning Award,was added to the agenda on motionofJ.
Bennett and carried.
2.CONFLICTS OF INTEREST
Trustee Jaffe declared a conflictof interest regarding Program Services staff
related to the 2001-2002 Budget.
3.LAWSON LITERARY AWARDS
The following 15Grade7and8winnersofthe2001 Lawson LiteraryAwards
were introduced by Rena Princis,Co-ordinator of the Awards.Mrs.Lawson,
ColonelTomLawson,Chairperson DavidStewart, and Directorof Education
John Laughlin presented the Awards.
Colonel Lawson extended congratulations to the winners, and the Director
expressed appreciation to the Lawson familyfor continuing to sponsor the
Award which encourages students to research and write about great
Canadian heroes as wellas their personal perspectives on Canadian issues
of interest and importance to them.
2001 June 26...224
Student School Family of Schools
Dylan Bosacki Carrothers P.S.Beal S.S.
Shaydey Gilev Fairmont P.S.Clarke Road S.S.
Katie Gilholm Wortley Road P.S.
South S.S.
Katrina Haworth Oxbow P.S.Medway S.S.
Catriona f-ioy Jack Chambers P.S.Lucas S.S.
Kori McCoskey Bishop Townshend P.S.Montcalm S.S.
Diana Murawski Bishop Townshend P.S Montcalm S.S.
Khrystina McMillan .Clara Brenton P.S.Oakridge S.S.
Mike McOueen Cleardale P.S.Laurier S.S.
Nicholas Murphy Lord Roberts P.S.Central S.S.
Jessica Riggs Byron Southwood P.S.Saunders S.S.
Andrew Sharp Jeanne Sauvd P.S.Banting S.S.
Brianna Steeper Parkhill-West Williams P.S.North Middlesex
Lyndsay Wettlaufer Hickson Central P.S.Huron Park
Casey Zavitz Caradoc North P.S.Strathroy S.S.
2001 Ontario Public Supervisory Officers'Association President's
Leadership Award
Frank Kelly,Ontario Public Supervisory Officers'Association (OPSOA)
Executive Director, and Dariene Weaver,incoming OPSOA President,
extended appreciation to the Board for supporting Peter Askey this year in
his role as President.They presented a wall plaque to be leftwiththe Board
for 2001-2002 as a reminder of Peter's outstanding contribution to the
organization.
OPSOA PRESIDENT'S LEADERSHIP AWARD
Executive Superintendent Peter Askey, inhis role as President ofthe Ontario
Public Supervisory Officers'Association,introduced Students Kristina
Gordon, Central Secondary School, London, and April Mclntyre,Saunders
Secondary School, London, winners ofthe OPSOA President's Leadership
Award. Both Kristina and April were recognized for their outstanding
contributions to their school and the community whilemaintaining an Honour
Role standing in OAC academic studies.
RECOGNITION OF RETIRING SUPERVISORY OFFICER
Directorof Education John Laughlin extended the following tribute on behalf ofthe
Administration to Executive Superintendent Peter Askey regarding his pending
retirement.
2001 June 26...225
"Tonight Is a very special occasion for the Board, and for one of us in
particular, as tonight is the last Board meeting Peter Aske/will be attending
in his role as Executive Superintendent of Program Services.A quick
calculation indicates that over his 13-year period as a supervisory officer,
tonightishis266"'Boardmeeting. Itis fitting then that weshould honourhim
as he has honoured us In education by his selflessness,his devotion and his
care and concern.
As many of you know,Peter's career began InLondon as a teacher at Sir John
A.Macdonald Public School in 1966,followed by vice-principal and principal
positions, in 1988,he accepted the position of Superintendent of Curriculum
withThe OxfordCountyBoardofEducation. From 1990 through 1996,he was
assigned supervisory responsibility for the Staff Development, Human
Resources and Special Education portfolios following whichhe was appointed
Director of Education.
In each role, Peter distinguished himself as an energetic,devoted, and
innovative educator which fondly earned himthe Oxfordtitleof Taskey Askey."
Nojob was too big or too small for him to tackle.
Peter brought these attributes to Thames Valley where he was responsible for
co-ordinating such major tasks as the wide area network,harmonization of over
85 curriculum programs and development of the system's Special Education
plan.Ialways knew Icould count on his support and willingness to do what
needed to be done.
It has been my pleasure to get to know Peter over the last four years as we
planned forthe amalgamation and then put that plan into place. Iknowthat
everyone involved benefitted from his depth of understanding of the complex
Issues that confronted us. Personally, Ihave appreciated the insights he has
brought to the Executive Council through his experience as a Director of
Education, and his willingness to stand alone and advocate for issues he
believes in.
Peter Is a man of honesty and integrity,whose first priority is the well-beingof
children.1believe that this is the legacy he leaves throughout the province as
he moves intoretirement. Asan advocate forchildren,he has been recognized
both locally and provincially with several awards,in 2000, he was elected
2001 June 26...226
President of the Ontario Public School Supervisory Officers'Association,he
was named the 2000 Home and School Educator of the Year and was one of
Thames Valley's 2001 Award of Distinction recipients.He has also been
honoured with the Townshend Gold Medal from the University of Western
Ontario's Faculty of Education and was an Ontario Ringette Community Builder
Award winner.
Peter,we will miss you. We'llmiss your enthusiasm,your sense ofhumour and
your leadership but we are thankful that you were here to contribute your
thoughts and expertise to buildingour system.We are honoured that we have
had the pleasure of being associated withyou on a professional level,and on
a personal level to call you our friend."
RECOGNITION OF STUDENT REPRESENTATIVE PETER DOELMAN
The Board expressed its thanks to Peter Doelman as the second elected
Student Trustee forthe Thames Valley District School Board.
Chairperson David Stewart recognized Peter's role as an excellent
ambassador for all students.Over the past year,Peter took his
responsibilities seriously and continued to network with the 72 students
trustees across the provinceregarding the issues facing publiceducation.
Chairperson Stewart thanked Peter for sen/ing as a role model for future
student trustees and presented himwitha commemorative gift.
Peter responded withthe following comments:
"Iwouldjust liketo take a moment to express the deep gratitude and honour
Ifeelformyexperience this past year as Thames Valley's Student Trustee.
It will be seven years this coming Decembersince the Government's Royal
Commission on Learning entitled 'For the Love of Learning', was released
along with its over 150 recommendations for Ontario's education system.
Among that long list was the recommendation "that all boards have at least on
student member..", siting the current use of Student Trustees in a few boards
at the time.
Alot has changed in those seven years since the Royal Commission was
released; the amalgamation ofOntario'sschoolboards, a new funding formula,
a new curriculum....
Along with those many changes,there is one in particularthat I'm
most fond of:the implementation ofthe position of student Trustee,
on everyone of Ontario's 72 District School Boards. This position is
very meaningful me for the following reasons;
2001 June 26...227
- It has opened me up to the critical issues facing publiceducation In
our Province;
- It has allowed me to meet and stay In contact with student council
representatives,giving me the opportunityto consult withthem, and
share with them what Is going on In education at the board and
provincial level;
• Most importantly,being Student Trustee has given me a glimpse at
the behind the scene workthat goes on to bring us our day-to-day
education,workas a student Ido notalways realize when Iam sitting
ina classroom, yet workthat benefits students directly. Iam amazed
bythe great dedication and commitmentallofyou here tonight share
forqualityeducation, and student improvement and achievement.
When I addressed a crowdof70 or so students at myelection day in
2000 r^/lay,over a year ago,I mentioned that in the wake of current
education reforms, there was a great need for a strong political
student organization to address our concerns to the Province over
education.As a founding member and First Vice President,this
provincial student organization - The Ontario Student Trustees'
Association •will be my legacy,my giftto students who come after
me.
Two weekends ago we held our Annual General Meeting inToronto.
Itwas a time to reflecton our hard workthe past 8 months since our
Inaugural:our reports on the state of education, our various press
releases,ourmeetings with the Education Minister,Opposition critics,
Union leaders,Ministry task forces. And It was a time to turn the
page,and start a new beginning withthe orientation of a fresh batch
of Student Trustees,and the election of a new Executive Council.
And so the fight for public education continues...
I believe the Province has created something very special in this
position. It has created a multitude of students passionate about
education inthe Province,students who are able to work together
whether from Catholic, Public, English or French systems of
education -somethingthat often eludes our adult counterparts.Iam
hopefulthatthese commitments toeducationandto working together
carry on Into our adult lives and careers.
2001 June 26...228
1have really appreciated Thames Valley's dedication to the role of
StudentTrusteeoverthispast year. Ihave learned a lot from youall,
and I will carrythis experience with meforthe rest ofmy life.
Itwas moved byS. Peters and carried thatStudentTrustee Doelman's remarks be
includedwiththe minutes ofthe June 12 meeting and posted to the Board's web site.
2001 LAMP OF LEARNING
Thecongratulationsofthe BoardwasextendedtoLisa Widifield,winnerofthe
2001 Lampof Learning Award presented bythe OntarioSecondary School
Teachers'Federation (OSSTF). Lisawas recognized forher contributionand
commitmentto qualitypubliceducation and social justice.
4.MONTHLY FINANCIAL REPORTING
Financial Statement >2001 April 30
Approved Budget 2000 June 27 $545 916 206
Add:Ministry of Education Additional Grants
Ministry Funding Adjustment - Revised -6 901 109
Estimates
Grade 10 Textbooks 1 215 088
MinistryFunding for Increased Utility Costs 1 458 260
Add:Revenues from Special Grant Initiatives
Summer Career Program Human 5 488
Resources Dev't Canada
EQAO - In service 5 597
Canada Trust Environment 4 918
Breakfast for Learning 904
CISCO Networking 16 369
Native Cultural Fund 6 680
Grade 4-6 MathImplementation Resource 16 000
-4 227 761
55 956
2001 June 26...229
Add:Miscellaneous Revenue Items
Transfer from Reserves -Contractual 3 300 000
Obligations
1999/2000 School Budget Carryforward 2 805 918
Food Services Rebate 317319
Registrations -Workshops and Seminars 20 577
General Interest Courses -Continuing 6 763
Education
Arts in Action 42 050
Sale of Vehicles 119 437
Rental for Community Use 161 173
Values,Influences,Peers 2000 1 147
Other Revenue Items 11 242
Revised Expenditure Budget - 2001 April 30
Revised Revenue Budget - 2001 April 30
6 839 626
$548 584 027
$548 584 027
5.REPORT OF THE NATIVE ADVISORY COMMITTEE, 2001 IVIAY 08
The Report ofthe Native Advisory Committeewhichmeton 2001 l^ay 08 from
3:00 to 4:55 p.m. was presented.
tvlembers
K.Albert II
D.Charles
L.Do)ctator
(-4:00)
S.Deller
(+4:15)
Administration and Others
Trustee
Visitor;
Regrets:
W.Hill
P.Schuyler
(+3:40)
T.Smith II
(-4:25)
L.Stevenson
J.Hunter
D,Gordon
R.MacDonald
J.Upsdell
M.fvlacdonald
C.Kechego
T.Sillaby-
Ramsey
a) APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA
*nie agenda was approved.
V.Hopkins
M. L.Anderson
R.Jackson
D.Susi
C.Graves
P.Askey
E.Good
K.Moore
2001 June 26...230
b) CONFLICTSOF INTEREST
No conflicts of interest were declared.
c)WELCOME AND INTRODUCTIONS
Terry Smith,Chippewas of the Thames,welcomed everyone to the
meeting and members introduced themselves.
d)CONFIRMATION OF VOTINGMEMBERS
Trustees:P.Schuyler,S. Deller
O.K.T.Representatives;D.Charles,L. Doxtator
Chippewas of the Thames:K.Albert,T. Smith
Munsee-Delaware Nation:W.Hill
6)REPORT OF MEETING - 2001 APRIL 10
The following statement from Item 7 of the 2001 April 10 report
'Charmaine Graves,Learning Supervisor,stated that only recently was
it discovered that curriculumforNative Second Language courses does
not exist."was deleted.
Following friendly amendments,Ken Albert,Chippewas ofthe Thames,
moved that the report of2001 April 10 be received. Carried.
Terry Smith indicated that Recommendations and Motions need to
come fromthe Native AdvisoryCommittee forthe Board.Peter Askey
.agreed that due to the short duration ofthe meetings the focus should
be on action.Peter noted that Jim McKenzie,Manager,Finance,will
attend a subsequent meeting to explain the First Nations Language
funding.
f) PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
Eleanor Good, Learning Coordinator, Program Services,showed a
portion of a video entitled "Befriending Demons:Healing Across
Cultures" featuring Dr. Tony Tafoya, which is available through the
Cross Cultural Learner Centre.
2001 June 26...231
g)
Dr.Tafoya is a Clinician and Rrst Nation'sStorytellerwho uses Native
legends inconferences to allowgroupsto "see through other's eyes":
to gain a perspective into anotherperson's pointof view.Dr.Tafoya
explained that different cultureshave varying amountsofpause time
betweensentences ina conversation to allow both participants a turn
to speak.The speakers withthe shortest amount of pause time often
unknowingly dominate conversations. Service delivery could be
significantly impeded because ofthese miscues oflanguage.
Dr.Tafoya also pointedoutthat accelerating similaractions to produce
different results rarely works. In order to achieve different results,
differentactions must be taken. Everyoneshould also be aware ofnot
bargaining away who they are.
Eleanor Goodstated that thisvideowas a reminderthat everything is
not always as it is perceived.Wayne Hill,Munsee-Delaware,added
that everyoneshouldstop and thinkand be aware ofthe other person
beforereacting. Notonlyarethere some cultural differences,butevery
person is an individual who should be respected.
Peter Askeyobserved that many different cultures use storytelling to
pass on wisdom,and this should be shared with students and adults.
EleanorGoodremindedthe membersofthe Committee that Ferguson
Plain, an excellent First Nations storyteller, would be present at a
NativeAdvisoryCommittee meeting inthe fall.
REPORT ON FIRST NATIONS GRADUATES
Charmaine Graves presented the results of the EQAO Grade Ten
Tests for FirstNations students in Thames Valley. The results are as
follows:
Urban and Band Students
Total Passed Passed Passed Failed Deferred Absent
Number Both Reading Writing Both
58 7 1 1 14 1 17
Band Students Only
45 2 1 1 12 0 12
2001 June 26...232
Charmaineindicatedthat steps are beingtaken to help students who
did notpassoneor both partsoftheGradeTentest,including anopen
Grade Eleven Literacy Courseand a Learning Strategies module at
summer school.These courses will also be available in the fall to
students who need furtherhelp to pass the Grade Ten test.
Theschools are also trying to identify incoming Grade 9 students who
may require extra help.Thisyearthere will be a readingand writing
summerschool program operating in 15 different locations,including
O.K.T.with Rhonda Gronert, for Grade 7 and 8 students,that will target
specific reading and writing strategiesto provide students with tools
that they can use inthe future.
Linda Stevenson asked ifthe statistics fromthis year's test are a viable
baseline considering the high absentee rate.Peter Askey advised that
Steve Killip,Chief,Research and Assessment,was consulted and
advised that some ofthe statistics are useable.Many of the students
who did write the Grade 10 did not re-read or check their answers
because they were aware that the test did not count this year.
Judy Upsdell,Principal,H.B.Beal S.S.,agreed with thisandadded that
many students completedthe test quickly and feltgood whentheywere
finished but didn't understand the depth of the test.
AtBeal, the staff may go intoGrade 9 classes next year to explain to
the students how to write the test.She believes that the success rate
of the Grade 10 test will increase,as did the success rate of the Grade
3 and Grade 6 tests.
Linda Stevenson enquired as to how successful the First Nations
students were compared to all students in Thames Valleyand howthe
data will be used to focus on Rrst Nations students to allow them to
become more successful.Linda wondered why some groups of
students are more successful than other groups.
Charmaine Graves indicated that her department is workingon reports
to share information gathered fromthe Grade 6 and 10 tests to provide
plans to make learners more successful.Lesson plans,including
writing tasks,are being written for all grades to increase
comprehension.She advised that the present Grade 9 and 10 First
Nations students will be tracked more closely than in the past in an
effort to help them to be more successful,and stay in school until
graduation.
2001 June 26...233
Supt.Askey advised that 60% of Thames Valley students passed the
Grade 10 test, but FirstNations students were belowthis average.IHe
expressed concern overthe high absentee rate as well as the standard
for the test being set after itwas written.
Peter commented that the Ministryof Education announcement about
changing instructional time may free up teachers for remedial help.
Details will be available at a later date.He stated that E.Q.A.O.was
good forthe system because itforced the Board to ask good questions
to improve learning.
Phil Schuyler,Chairperson,asked IfE.Q.A.O.could provideexamples
of tests to First Nations schools so students could practice before
writing the actual test. Terry Smith indicated that investigations are
underway to determine if the Grade 3 and 6 tests could be obtained
from E.Q.A.O.so the students on the reserve schools could write them.
Doug Gordon,Program Services,advised that the schools on the
reserve may be charged $75.00 per student by E.Q.A.O.,for the tests
because they will be treated as a private school.
TerrySmithalso advised that they have troublekeeping teachers atthe
reserve schools.The teachers all leave and come to the Thames
Valley DistrictSchool Board because it Is a much larger board.
Mary-LouAnderson, Principal,Thames SS,advised that memorandum
PPM127 fromthe Ministry of Education is being looked at more closely
by her staff,so the students at Thames SS could have the Grade 10
test temporarily deferred until teaching strategies to help them to be
more successful can be implemented.
Supt.Askey advised that three of the more successful school boards
did not have alloftheir students writethe Grade 10 test. Manyoftheir
students had the test deferred so that it would be a more positive
experience.
TerrySmithadvised ofa "Reading Recovery"programthat was started
last year on the Chippewas ofthe Thames reserve,focused on working
with students so they will be more successful in Grade 9.
2001 June 26...234
Charmalne Graves indicated that the number of Rrst Nations students
entering Grade9 each year is consistentihowever by Grade 12 the
numberofstudents remaining is significantly reduced. Once students
have been removed fromthe roll they are difficultto track.
Of 13 FirstNations students taken off roll last year,three had children
and were staying home with them,threewereat alternative sites, and
seven were not in school or working.Charmaine advised that this
information was received from James Antone,Native Counsellor,
Saunders SS, who has an extensive knowledge of all Rrst Nations
people inthe area.
Terry Smith advised that there are not many secondary school
graduates among the Chippewas of the Thames people, but many
return to school after a few years and graduate from post-secondary
institutions. PhilSchuylerindicatedthat this was also the case with the
O.K.T.people.
Terry Smith added that Nippissing and St.Glair Colleges have
establishedsatellite campuses onthereservethereby eliminating travel
time and costs for their students.
Wayne Hill observed that a majority of the Caucasian population is
willing to move to other provinces to findwork,but most Rrst Nations
people preferto live andworkintheir familiar,Native home community.
Itwas noted that when St.Clair College came tothe Munsee-Delaware
reserve to receive applications,residents were lined up to take
advantage ofthe opportunityof an education.
Philip Schuyler expressed concern seeing students waiting for the
school bus at 6:40 a.m. He commented that not only would they be
gettingonthe bus early,butthey would be returning home lateas well
which would make It difficultfor them to have any time for relaxation
and social interaction.
Dee Charles,O.K.T.,supported both of the above comments.She
advised that her daughter attends Saunders SS, and takes the bus to
school every morning at 6:40 a.m.She has another daughter who
failedto complete a college course in Sarnia, but has graduated from
the EarlyChildhoodEducationprogramofferedonthe reserve,and will
be starting a job on Monday at the Oneida Day Care.
2001 June 26...23S
Phili[p Schuyler cautioned against graduating too many Early
Childhood Educators because there are a limited number ofjobsfor
them on the reserve.
Wayne Hill commented that if First Nations students stumble in a
course beingofferedoffofthe reserve, oftenthey do notcompletethe
course,whereas if thesame situation occurson the reserve theyare
surrounded bypeople who will support them ingetting back on track.
h)APPROVALOF NATIVE ADVISORYFUND
CharmaineGraves introduced the Expenditure of Cultural Funds 2001-
2002 document that was prepared by Linda Doxtator,OKT,Gina
McGahey,Chippewas of the Thames, and Charmaine. The total
allocation of Cultural Fundsat the elementarylevelis $1550.00 and at
the secondary level is $9216.00.The sub-committee decided that the
bulk ofthe Cultural Fund money shouldbe used to provide cultural
experiences for students whowouldnot othenvise receive them, but it
isnottobeused for transportation costs.Only Languageteachers who
workdirectly with First Nations students from ChippewasoftheThames
and OKT may access resource money from the Fund. Counsellor
mileage will be paidforhomevisits,and ifcounsellors are requested
to attend meetings initiatedbythe First NationsCommunities, both of
which must be pre-approved bythe school Principal.Since TVDSB-
paid counsellors each receive $250.00 fromthe Board for Professional
Development, the tuition-paid counsellors will each receive $250.00
from the Cultural Fund for the same purpose. Aconference request
form must be completed and signed by the school Principal and
forwarded to Charmaine Graves for reimbursement.
Stewart Deller,Trustee,enquired as to where the money for
professional development originates.Charmaine Graves,Learning
Supervisor,Program Services,explained that both Chippewas ofthe
Thames,and OKT contribute to this fund.Munsee-Delaware has a
different method of funding professional development.Peter Askey,
advised that he will provide documentation explaining where the
professional development funds originate inThames Valley.Thefunds
fromthe First Nations Bands originate fromthe Federal Government,
and the fundsfromthe Boardoriginatefromthe ProvincialGovernment.
2001 June 26...236
Linda Stevenson remarked that itwas good to see an accounting ofthe
Culturai Fund.Charmaine Graves advised that this document is
presented each year covering April 1to March 31.
Phil Schuyler indicated that the travel allowances provided for
Professional Development forthe Counsellors was inadequate, and
that an increase is needed.The Counsellors had to pay certain
expenses themselvesat a recent conference.Phil stated that they
shouldnothavetouse personal funding,andrequestedan accounting
ofthe funds because a significant amount is being spent each year.
Phil questionedwhythe Boardis administering the Cultural Funds,and
wonderedwhythe Bandsweren't administering the moneythemselves.
Peter Askeyagreed with ChairpersonSchuyler,that the Counsellors
shouldnotbe paying conference expenses themselves, butexplained
thatthesame situationoccurs with the Boardemployees. Forexample,
ifone of Charmaine Graves'staff wants to go to a conference,and the
budget for Professional Development is exhausted,then the staff
member cannot attend, or must pay forithimself/herself. !fmore ofthe
Cultural Fund is used for Professional Development for the
Counsellors,then there will be fewer funds available to provide
students with cultural experiences,which is contrary to what was
decided by the sub-committee.
Wayne Hill advised that the Bands are paying for a service fromthe
Board, and the FirstNationspeople are upset at the amount they are
payinginstudent tuition fees fora Grade 12 diploma.Sometimesthe
Bandspayforsixorseven years ofeducationand still a diplomaIsnot
received.The Professional Development allowance of $250.00 per
year per Counsellor seems like a verysmallamount compared to the
amount of tuition that is being paid. Wayne advised that the First
Nations Committees would like to see an accounting of where the
money is used.
Peter Askey,Executive Superintendent, ProgramServices,Indicated
that a report on staffing, and an accounting of funds v\nll be forwarded
to the Committee.Peter advised that all Rrst Nations students are
treated the same as all the other students.If the Committee would like
to see the figures broken down in a different manner, that can be
discussed,because there should be accountability.
2001 June 26...237
Tracey Sillaby-Ramsey,Native Counsellor,Beat SS,advised that the
Native Counsellors could apply for reimbursement of Professional
Development costs from a Community Service Fund, however it is
unlikely that they would receive reimbursement because this fund is
mostly used forNorthern Bands that have very limited funding.
Ken Albert advised that he attended a workshop recently where Mr.
Lindsay Moir suggested that some Rrst Nations students are being
charged doubleor triple tuition bythe Board. Peter Askey advisedthat
he would get clarification of this situation.
Valerie Hopkins, NativeCounsellor,Thames SS, enquired as to who
owns a gift that is given to a Native Counsellor when the Counsellor
was on Board business at the timeofthe receiptofthe gift. Charmaine
Graves indicatedthat ifa small giftis received by a NativeCounsellor
while performing a Board duty, the gift belongs to the Native
Counsellor. Ifthe NativeCounsellor had totravel to performthe Board
duty, they wouldalso be eligiblefor reimbursement of mileage.
PhilSchuyler advised that there were some questions butmost agreed
that the bulkofthe Cultural Fund should go to students.Philcalled for
a vote on the Native Cultural Fund.Carried.
(See recommendation 1)
PRINCIPALS'UPDATE
Westminister Central PS
school musical "Wizard of Oz"being performed this week
book fair this week
The Aboriginal peoples of Canada have made and continue to
make valuable contributions to Canadian society and it is
considered appropriate that there be, in each year, a date to
mark and celebrate these contributions and to recognize the
different cultures of the Aboriginal peoples of Canada.June 21
is National AboriginalDay.All students will receive a book mark
and be reminded ofthe importance ofthis celebration.
Charmaine Graves indicatedthat she will also be receiving material
regarding National Aboriginal Day and will forward the material to the
Committee.
2001 June 26...238
Thames SS
the video project is progressing.Soon studentswill beonbuses
to various schools to tape activities.
i)ADJOURNMENT
The following agenda items Draft Communications Suggestions To
Support First Nations Students,Principal and Native Communities
Process, and Report on First Nations Language Funding will be
addressed at the next meeting.
The meetingadjournedat 4:55 p.m.on motion ofWayne Hill.
Next Committee Meeting Date:
Tuesday,2001 June 5
3:00 p.m. - 4:30 p.m., Room 111
P.SCHUYLER,
Chairperson
6.REPORT OF THE POLICY WORKING COMMITTEE.2001 JUNE 05
The Report ofthe Policy Working Committee, whichmet on 2001 June 05
from3:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m., was presented.
Members Administration and Others
S.Peters (Chair) L.Stevenson J. Thorpe G. Treble
D.Anstead T. Roberts (3:40) S. Christie R.Hughes
A.Cartier B. Bryce
(a)APPROVAL OFTHE AGENDA -Thedraft agenda was approved.
(b)CONFLICTS OF INTEREST - No conflicts of interest were
declared.
(c) COMMITTEEREPORT OF MAY 1,2001
The report was presented for information and reference ifrequired.
2001 June 26...239
(d)INTRODUCTION OF DRAFT POLICY/PROCEDURE
i)Safe Schools Act
Superintendent GerryTreble and Ray Hughes joined the meeting to
discuss the draft Safe Schools Act policy and procedures. Supt.
Treble noted the government intends to proclaim the expulsion
section by June 30 and the suspension section by September 1.He
noted that the procedures have been discussed with the District
School Council chairs.
It was moved by Trustee Anstead and carried that the draft
documents be approved forpostingon the Board's web site forpublic
input with the following note:
that implementation Is subject to proclamation and will not be
implemented untilitis proclaimed;
that parts of the document replace existing documents e.g.
Suspension and Expulsion of Students;
and that the policy and procedure be brought back to the Policy
Working Committee on June 12 for final consideration.
(e)CONSIDERATION OF POLICY/PROCEDURE FOLLOWING
PUBLIC INPUT
i)School Councils
Executive Superintendent of Human Resource Services Bill Bryce
joinedthe meetingto discuss approvalofthe following draftpolicies
related to School Councils;Parent Members,Conflict Resolution
Process for InternalSchool Council Disputes, Allocationof Funding
and Student Dress Codes.
He noted that Input has been received from all sources including
School Councils. Where suggestions were not contrary to the
regulations,they were considered.
Supt. Bryce presented the following procedures related to the
above School Councilpolicies:
- ConflictResolution Process for InternalSchool Council Disputes;
-Student Dress Code Voting Process;
-Access to School Sites;and
•Expense Reimbursement.
2001 June 26...240
Itwas movedbyTrustee CartierthatthedraftSchool Council policies
and proceduresbe approved bythe Committee and forwarded tothe
Board forapproval at the June 26 meeting.
li)Supt.Bryce also described the draftWageLossReplacement Plan
policy and procedure noting itharmonizesthewagelossreplacement
plansofthe four predecessor boards and will save the Boarda net of
approximately$250,000 InElpremiums if adopted.
A considerable difference Inthe draft policy is the practice of one of
the predecessor boards to continue to pay its share of employee
benefit costs when an employee is on wage loss. It Is not
recommendedthat thispractice be continued.Notice will be served
to all bargaining units ofthe change to employee benefits,following
Board approval.
Itwas moved by Trustee Anstead that the policy be referred to the
Board for approval and the supporting procedure for informationat
the June 26 meeting.
iii)Supt. Brycenoted that the Asbestos procedure was posted tothe web
site and received no public input. It has been approved by the Joint
Health and Safety Committee.
Itwas moved byTrustee Anstead that the procedure be presented to
the Board for information at the June 26 meeting.
(e) DRAFT POLICY/PROCEDURE REQUIRING FURTHER
CONSIDERATION -none
(f)SUGGESTED POLICY/PROCEDURE REVISIONS
Revised Field Trip Policy
Superintendent Paul Mennill joined the meeting to discuss draft
revisions to the Field Trip Policy,revised to reflect the standards of
the Board regarding streamlining the process and appropriate safety
measures.
He noted a committee has worked on revisions to ^e procedures
over the past year to improve its understanding and to make it more
workable,consistent and clear. The primary responsibility for
approving fieldtrips has been left withprincipals but also ensures that
the Board's supervisory officers are involved Inthe approval process.
2001 June 26...241
The policy indicatesthat trips must be tied to learning expectations
andthe curriculum.Itremovesthe distinction between a field tripand
an excursion referencing all trips as field trips. The policy ensures
that the school's superintendent approves the highest high-risktrips,
e.g.canoe trips, alpine skiing,overnight trips to the woods.
It was suggested that the policy statement be rewritten to better
reflectthe educational value ofthe trip. Itwas amended to read "Itis
the policy of the Board to support well-planned and properly-
organized field trips which bring significant educational value to
students."
The document's procedures holdschool staffto be accountable tothe
superintendent and ensures that they are consistent with OSBIE and
updated with certifying bodies such as swimming,canoeing,etc.
Itwas noted that student-planned trips (i.e. trips planned solely by
students and for which there is no teacher involvement) are not
supported from a liability point of view as noted in 1.2 of the
procedure and that principals should be advised that such trips
should not be sanctioned.
Itwas moved byTrustee Cartierand carried that the revised policy
and procedure be posted on the web for public input until June 26,
that the revised policy be referredto the Boardforapprovaland the
procedures for information at the June 26 meeting. Any input
received by June 12 will be brought to the attention of the Policy
WorkingCommittee on the 12'^
(g) OTHER BUSINESS - none
(h)ADJOURNIWENT-4:30 p.m.
NextCommittee MeetingDate:
Tuesday,2001 June 12
3:00 p.m.-4:50 p.m.
S.PETERS
Chairperson
2001 June 26...242
7(a).REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE - Public
The Report ofthe Committee ofthe Whole -Public,which meton 2001 June
05 from 7:20 p.m.to 9:00 p.m.,was presented.
Members
D.Stewart,Chairperson
J.Bennett
S.Deller
J.Hunter
D.Anstead
S.Peters
T.Roberts
P.Sattler
L.Stevenson
A.Cartier
G.Hart
P.Doeiman
Regrets:P. Jaffe, P.Schuyler
Administration and Others
J. Laughlin
P.Askey
P.Gryseels
B. Bryce
B.Greene
J.Thorpe
C. Murphy
M.Sereda
Q.Jazey
P.Mennill
J. Empringham
R.fJurray
Q.Treble
L.Peck
J.McKenzie
S.Galati
D.Bradford
S.Christie
W.Scott
1.APPROVAL OF AGENDA
The agenda was approvedon motion of P. Sattlerand carried.
2.CONFLICTS OF INTEREST - No conflicts of Interest were declared.
3.PRELIf^INARY 2001-02 BUDGET DELIBERATIONS
John Laughlin,DirectorofEducation,advised thatthe 2001-2002 Preliminary
Budgetwas presented at the Special Board Meeting held2001 May 29 and
that at the June 5 meeting, the Administrationwould be providingclarification
responding to the issues raised for clarification by Trustees.
The Director advised that itisthe Administration's responsibility to present a
balanced budget In order to comply with Ministry of Education expectations.
Headvised that despitethe proposed reductions,the Board will continueto
put students first.The following issues requested by the Trustees for
clarification were addressed.
The dollar amount required to operate a "responsible"school system
The Director advised that the Thames Valley District School Board
operates a responsible school board system. The Boardmust address
prioryears'deficits,salaryIncreases,rising costs ofbenefits,growth in
the special education area,utility increases,student transportation and
general inflationary increases.These deficits have resulted Ina budget
shortfall of$22.3M for2001 -2002.The Board's funding increase of.9%
will be consumed byprioryears' deficits,rising utility costs and student
transportation costs. He stressed the need forthe Ministry ofEducation
to find solutions to these funding shortfalls.
2001 June 26...243
A comparison of Thames Valley DSB to other Boards of the staffing
ratios for professional support staff such as psychologists,speech and
language and attendance counsellors
Peter Askey, Executive Superintendent,Program Services, provided
a comparison of special education staffingand deliveryof services for
boards across the province, as follows:
Durham DSB
Total Enrolment 68,178
E.A.'s Attendance/Psychologists/Speech &Language School Support
Social Psych.Assoc.Pathologists/Teachers Counsellors
Workers Psychometrists
Psycho-Ed.Con.
573 10 21 19.5 5
1:119 1.8818 1:3246 1:3496 1:13636
Ottawa Carleton DSB
Total Enrolment 74,090
EA's Attendance/Psychologists/Speech &Language School Support
Social Psych.Assoc.Pathologists/Teachers Counsellors
Workers Psychometrists
Psycho-Ed.Con.
535 20 18 22 0
1:138 1:3705 1:4116 1:3368
Peel DSB
Total Enrolment:111,500
E.A."s Attendance/Psychologists/Speech &Language School Support
Social Psych. Assoc.Pathologists/Teachers Counsellors
Workers Psychometrists
Psycho-Ed.Con.
659 20 18 22 0
1:138 1:3705 1:4116 1:3368
2001 June26...244
SimcoG County DSB
Total Enrolment:55,000
E.A.'s Attendance/Psychologists/Speech &Language School Support
Social Psych.Assoc..Pathologists/Teachers Counsellors
Workers Psychometrists
Psycho-Ed.Con.
415 6 13 5 0
1.133 1:9167 1:4231 1:11000
Waterloo Region DSB
Total Enrolment:59,550
E.A.'s Attendance/Psychologists/Speech &Language School Support
Social Psych./\ssoc.Pathoiogists/Teachers Counsellors
Workers Psychometrists
Psycho-Ed.Con.
400 2.5 9 9 5
1:149 1:23820 1:6616 1:6616 1:11910
York Region DSB
Total Enrolment;91,973
E.A.'s Attendance/Psychologists/Speech &Language School Support
Social Psych.Assoc.Pathologists/Teachers Counsellors
Workers Psychometrists
Psycho-Ed.Con.
480.5 9.0 23.5 14.2 0
1:191 1:10219 1:3913 1:6477
Thames Valley DSB
Total Enrolment:81,720
E.A.'s Attendance/Psychologists/Speech &Language School Support
Social Psych./\ssoc.Pathologists/Teachers Counsellors
Workers Psychometrists
Psycho-Ed.Con.
640 19.0 19.5 33 27.5
1;128 1:4301 1:4190 1:2476 1:2972
2001 June 26...245
An analysis of the effect of the proposed reductions of educational assistants
and professional staff on the high needs,developmentally challenged and
behavioural programs.
Executive Superintendent Askey provided a report of the proposed
reductions of educational assistants and professional staff for special
education programs.The following analysis of the effect of reducing
EducationalAssistantfor2001-2002was presented;
2000/2001 2001/2002 Difference
Developmental Program 171.5 161.5 -10.0 •
School Based (Integrated)422.5 395.25 -26.75
Steps for Success Program 30.0 39.0 +9.0
JK/SK 10.0 7.0 -3.0
Holdback/Temporary Placement 6.0 6.75 +0.75
TOTAL 640 610 -30.0
Partnerships for Excellence 0 51
Headvised trustees that the reductionsforprofessionalsupportstaffsuch as
psychologists,speech and language pathoiogists and attendance counsellors
will be achieved through attrition.He stressed that the staffingreductions
being considered will meanreducedservicelevelsand longer waiting times
for the services affected.
An analysis of the number of exceptional students attending Thames Valley
DSB compared to other boards.
Executive Superintendent Askey compared the numberof Intensive Support
Allocation students to the total enrolment for 1999-2000.He noted the
provincial,average indicates that 1.44%of the students population is
exceptional students. Atthe Thames Valley DSB,1.51% of the student
population is deemed exceptional and is somewhat above the provincial
average.It was noted that the Board's figures are similarto the Windsor and
Simcoe boards. Itwas suggested that a comparisonstudy ofother boards
centred Inmedical communities may provide input forattaining Ministry of
Health funding.
The amount of funding available forstaff development.
Director Laughlin advised that the balance of Staff Development funds
following the proposed reduction of$275000should providesufficient funds
forstaff in-service during the 2001-2002 school year.
2001 June 26...246
An analysis of Special Education revenues and expenditures
The Administration presentedthe following analysisoftheSpecial Education
revenues and expenditures:
Special Education Funding: Preliminary2001-02 Budget
Description 2000-2001 2001-2002
Total Revenues {includes Partnerships for $59 767 983 $58 934 131
Excellence)
Expenditures
Special Education Programs
Partnership for Excellence Program
Total Expenditures
Expenditures in Excess of Ministry
Funding
Note:Partnerships for Excellence Program staffing expenditures for 2000-01
represents 2001 January to June or 60% of annual cost.
iHow elimination of elementary noon hour supervisors will affect
developmentally challenged classes/students.
Executive Superintendent Askey advised trustees that with the proposed
elimination of elementary noon-hour supervisors,it will be necessary for
Educational Assistants to assist with supervision of students.Principals will be
responsible for rescheduling the times to ensure that adequate supervision is
available.It was noted that there may be circumstances where Learning
Support staff may be re-assigned to assist special needs students.
A question-and-answer period followed.
Trustee Stevenson expressed concern over Ministry Funding Formulathat does not
address the escalating costs associated with utilities and transportation and the
Impact that this has on all children.
Director Laughlln advised that solutions to these complex issues must come from
the Ministry and that CODEand OPSBA are strongly lobbying foradditional funds.
Trustee Bennett advised that at the SEACmeeting held earlier on June 5, a motion
was passed that SEAC supports the concepts of the Special Education Plan for
2001-2000 but will be unable to implement itwiththe proposed staff reductions.
56 593 034 57 002 623
5 502 736 5 483 616
62 095 770 62 486 239
; 2 327 787 $ 3 552 108
2001 June 26...247
7(b).
The importance of communicating to the publicthat sufficient funds to support
public education are not being received from the Ministry of Education was
emphasized.
The Administration will present options for trustee consideration at the Committee
ofthe Whole meeting of 2001 June 12.
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE -In Camera
The Report of the Committee ofthe Whole - In Camera,which met on 2001 June
05 from 5:12 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.. was presented.
TRUSTEES
D.Stewart P.Sattler
J.Bennett,Chair L.Stevenson
S.Deller A.Cartler
J.Hunter G.Hart
D.Anstead
S.Peters
T,Roberts
Regrets:P.Schuyler,P. Jaffe
ADMINISTRATION AND OTHERS
J.Laughlin
P. Askey
P.Gryseels
B. Bryce
B.Greene
J.Thorpe
L.Pack
C. Murphy
M.Sereda
P.Mennill
R. Murray
G.Treble
J.McKenzie
K.f^eeson
J.Tilley
J.Empringham
G.Jazey
S.Galati
S Christie
The Committee met in camera from 5:12 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. and discussed
confidential personnel matters.No conflicts of interest were declared.
ADJOURNMENT
The Committee ofthe Whole •Publicmeetingadjourned at 9:00 p.m.on motion
of D.Anstead.
D.STEWART,
Chairperson
8,REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE -In-Camera
The Report ofthe Committee ofthe Whole -In Camera,which met on 2001 June
12 from 5:00 p.m. to 6:10 p.m., was presented.
Members Present
D.Stewart
J.Bennett,
A.Cartler
D.Anstead
S.Peters
T.Roberts
P.Sattler
Regrets:P.Schuyler
L.Stevenson
J.Hunter
S.Deller
G. Hart (5:46)
P.Jaffe
Administration and Others
J. Laughlin
P. Askey
P.Gryseels
B. Bryce
B.Greene
C. Murphy
M.Sereda
G.Jazey
J.Thorpe
P.Mennill
L.Roberton
L.Peck
J.Empringham
R. Murray
G.Treble
B.Beatty
D.Bradford
S.Christie
J. Tilley
K.Meeson
S.Galati
2001 June 26...248
The Committee metincamera from 5:00to 6:10 p.m.and discussed confidential
personal and property matters.
CONFLICTS OF INTEREST -Trustee Jaffe declared a conflict of interest
regarding Program Services budget staffing issues.
RECOMMENDATIONS
1.ThattheThames Valley District SchoolBoardawardcontractstoGordonRuthand
Communication Cabling Systems (CCS)as primary vendors to supplydata wiring
for the period ending December 31,2002. This recommendation Includes a
secondary vendor,Interlink Telecommunications Inc.toensure thatthe bulkofthe
data wiring can be completedduringthe summer monthsto minimize disruption In
the classrooms.
2. Thatthe Thames Valley District SchoolBoardenter intoa contract with Strategic
Concepts Groupforthe lease of31 Fileserversconsistent with their response
forthe Board's Request for Proposal. The contract will be fora three-year
period,withthe machines being returned at the end ofthe contract.
D.STEWART
Chairperson
9.2001-2002 EARLY DISMISSAL DAYS
The Administration presented a report requesting the Board's approval forthree
early dismissal days in2001-2002. (2001 September 26,2002 February 27, and
2002 April 24)
Forthe 2000-2001 school year, the Board introduced the concept ofthree early
dismissal days to support the majorcurriculumreforminitiativesbeing introduced
and tosupport our corporate focuson learning. Whileteachers have been actively
engaged Inworkshops duringthe summer, on Professional Developmentdays and
at after-school programs, itwas feltthat the early dismissal days would provide
time forthe entire staff ofa school to meet and learn together in support of program
implementation.
Surveys were distributed in 2001 March to School Councils, Home and Schools,
other Parent Organizations,schools and employee groups to gather inputon the
effectiveness of these three early dismissal days.
Atotal of206 groups were represented inthe responses with84% recommending
that the concept be continued for 2001 -02.
The results by the groups were as follows:
The surveys asked forspecific information on howthe early dismissal days benefit
the school or system and howthe early dismissal day concept could be improved.
/^
2001 June 26...249
Among the benefits noted were the following;
permitted time forthe staff to workon the exemplars, literacy programs for
students and curriculum evaluation
all teachers have taken part in a common in-service without the cost in both
effort and dollars of finding supply teachers
provided time for cross-department and Inter-discipllne planning
•increased teacher confidence in applying new concepts in daily teaching
situations
provided opportunities for teachers to share successful methods
•provided time for staff to focus together on school improvement goals
•schools developed programs that met their specific needs.
Among the suggestions for Improvement were the following:
lengthen the time available/increase the number of days
keep the days well away from report card preparation
•schedule more of the days earlier in the year
•encourage that some of the time be used for department or divisional
meetings.
Several respondents expressed a preference for more Professional Development
Days rather than the Early Dismissal Days.
The London District Catholic School Board also introduced the Early Dismissal Day
concept this year and their staff have indicated that they are planning to continue
the program for2001-02. Identifyingthe same dates will ensure cost effectiveness
for the transportation purposes and will ensure effective communications to all
stakeholders.
The following motion was moved by Trustee Roberts and carried:
TTiat the inclusion of three early dismissal days inthe 2001 -2002 school year
calendar,be approved.
10.2001-2002 BUDGET APPROVAL
John Laughlin,Director of Education,provided preliminary remarks regarding the
revised 2001-2002 Budget for approval and submission tothe Ministryof Education
by 2001 June 30.
Director Laughlin reported that the 2001-2002 budget is in compliance with allthe
Ministry provisions as follows;
2001 June 26...250
- Estimated expenditures do not exceed estimated revenues;
- The $1 000 000 which representsthe balance ofthe 1999-2000 deficit
management planis providedforwithin the 2001-2002approved budget;
- The projected deficit of $4 217 110 for the 2000-2001 budgetyear is
providedfor within the 2001-2002approved budget.
In addition,the Board is in compliance with the Ministry of Education funding
envelopes as follows:
•Classroom Expenditures
-Special Education
-Administration and Governance
-School Renewal
In order to achieve a balanced budget, expenditure reductions have been
proposed as follows:
Preliminary
Budget Revised
Elementary Noon Hour Supervision $700,000 $850 000
School Secretarial Staff 800 000 800 000
Educational Assistants 900 000 900 000
Program Services Staff 1 500 000 500 000
Learning Coordinators/TOSAs 230 000 230 000
Amended Program Staff Reductions
AdditionalTOSAs (2)$129 000
Administrative Technicians (2)80 000
Central Office Staff (4)186 000
Custodial Staff (6}182 000
Program Services Staff (4)
293 000
$4 130 000 $4 130 000
Atthe Committee ofthe Whole meeting held 2001 June 05 the Administration was
requested to look for creative options to ensure that the following action steps
occur:
2001 June 26...251
- eliminate lay-offs
-minimize the decrease in level of service
-spread the reductions over all support staff employee groups
-communicate our concerns to the parents and the community;
- build a special circumstance case for Thames Valleywith the Ministryof
education In special education given the fact that people move here to
access our medical services;
-through the Chair and Directorand OPSBA,request that the government
consider developing a provincial strategy to deal withthe utilities area
Asa result the Administration has proposed revised reductions which will not result
inlayoffsand can be made through attrltion/retirements/unfilled positions/Ministry
incentive funding.These revised reductions cross all areas of the organization,
including Board administrationand minimize the impact on special education.
The preliminary 2001-2002 budget was presented to the Board on 2001 May 29.
The budget is for the fiscal period 2001 September 01 to 2002 August 31.The
budget provides for a net increase in operating grant allocations from the Ministry
of education of $4.6M which represents an Increase of .9%over the 2000-2001
operating grant allocation. This increase in operating grants is expected to fund:
prior years'deficits
salary increases
rising cost of benefits
growth in special education
utility increases
student transportation
general inflationary increases for other goods and services
The current year's projected deficits in transportation and utilities combined with
their contribution to the prior years'deficits are significant and must be addressed
through the development of a provincial strategy.The Board continues to spend
more on special education that the Ministry provides in funding for this protected
envelope.The Board did not receive any new funding for special education in
2001-2002. Despite reductions in special education expenditures,the gap
continues to widen inthis envelope. Special education expenditures will exceed
special education revenues by $3.6 Million in 2001-2002 as compared to $2.3
Million in 2000-2001.
The Ministryfunding announcement included a change inthe pupil accommodation
grant forfunding new pupil places.The change will recognize school capacities in
local areas or zones rather than the entire jurisdiction.This has generated new
pupil place funding for Thames Valley of $1.6 Million per year guaranteed for a
period of 25 years.This will assist with the construction of new pupil places in
growth areas.This new pupil place funding cannot be used for operating purposes
and remains in a reserve fund restricted for new pupil places.
2001 June 26...252
It was moved by Trustee Joyce Bennett that the following recommendations
pertaining tothe 2001-2002Budgetbe approved:
(a)That any reduction in areas related to Special Education and Program
Services for students identified with special needs,students requiring a
"Student Plan for Action"or students in crisis will be minimized and offset
by accessing provincial restructuring dollars, by making reductions in
board administration by not filling positions vacated through leaves and
retirements across support employee groups, and applying a global
reductionfactorto supplies and services ifrequired. Everyeffortshould
be make to balance reductions In complement across these employee
groups.
(b)That lunchroom supen/Ision continueto be providedfor high riskand high
needs students ifrequired.
(c)Thatthe TVDSB implement a communication plan with allschoolsthrough
School Councils, Home and School Associations and other community
partners to identify the impact of shortfalls in provincial funding that has
resulted in major reductions in the TVDSB budget and reductions in
services.Parents willbe encouraged to contact Provincial politicians to
support the TVDSB in receiving adequate funding to meet the needs of all
of our students.
(d)That the Chairperson and the Director request an emergency meeting with
the Minister of Education (or her designate)and senior Ministrystaff to
request that TVDSB be designated as a special circumstance board given
the proportionately larger number of special needs children within this
community. They will also ask the government to consider a provincial
strategy to address the financial stress caused by the cumulative impact
of transportation and utility costs which are beyond control of the TVDSB.
Following a lengthy discussion the following 10 recommendations regarding the
2001-2002 Budget, as revised,were approved.
RECOMMENDATIONS:
1.That the Native Cultural Fund forthe 2001 - 2002 school year,be approved.
2. That the following draft School Council policies be forwarded to the Board for
approval and the supporting procedures for information at the 2001June 26
meeting:
-Parent Members,
- Conflict Resolution Process for Internal School Council Disputes,
- Allocation of Funding
<Student Dress Codes.
2001 June 26...253
3.That the draft Wage Loss Replacement Plan policy be referred to the Board for
approval and the supporting procedure for information at the 2001 June 26 meeting.
4.That the Asbestos Procedure be presented to the Board for information at the 2001
June 26 meeting
5.That the revised policy and procedure related to Field Trips be posted on the web for
public input until June 26,and that the revised policy be referred to the Board for
approval and the procedures for information at the 2001 June 26 meeting.
6.That the inclusion of three early dismissal days in the 2001-2002 school year
calendar,be approved.
7.That the Thames Valley Qistrlct School Board award contracts to Gordon Ruth and
Communication Cabling Systems (CCS)as primary vendors to supply data wiring for
the period ending 2001 December 31.This recommendation includes a secondary
vendor,Interlink Telecomrhunications Inc.to ensure that the bulk of the data wiring
can be completed during the summer months to minimize disruption in the
classrooms.
8.That the Thames Valley District School Board enter into a contract with Strategic
Concepts Group for the lease of 31 Fileservers consistent with their response for the
Board's Request for Proposal.The contract will be for a three-year period,with the
machines being returned at the end ofthe contract.
ADJOURNMENT
The Committee rose and reported to a special Board Meeting on motion of J.Hunter
at 8:40 p.m.
D.STEWART
Chairperson
Recommendation 1was adopted on motion ofSchuyler and Dellar.
Recommendations 2,3,4,5,6,7,and 8 were adopted on motion of Hunter and Stevenson.
2001 June 26...254
83-F.REPORT OF THE POLICY WORKING COMMITTEE
1,
2.
3.
4.
Members
S.Peters (Chair) L.Stevenson
D.Anstead T. Roberts (3:06)
A.Cartier
2001 June 12
3:00 p.m.-5:05 p.m.
Administration and Others
J.Thorpe
S.Christie
L.Peck
S.Galati
J.Cuddie
P.Robinson
B.Beatty
B.Strong
P.Martin
M.Sereda
L.Robertson
R. Murray
P.Doelman
APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA
Item 7a (Computer Security Procedure)was added tothe agenda.
CONFLICTS OF INTEREST- Noconflictsof interest were declared.
COMMITTEE REPORT OF JUNE 5, 2001
The Committee reportofJune 5,2001 was presented forreference as
required.
a. INTRODUCTION OF DRAFT POLICY/PROCEDURE
a. Grant Coordination forSchoolsand Departments
Sam Galatijoinedthe meeting to discuss the draftGrant Co-ordination
independent procedure noting the intent is to establish a process to
coordinate information regarding systemgrantproposals.
With one area serving asa clearinghouse,itwill ensure that departments
areawareofothersystem applications for community donations and will
establish a data base of grants for which applications have been
completed.The procedure formalizes the steps and processes already
inplace inthe Board's operations.
2001 June 26...255
It was clarified that the procedure is not intended to be an approval
process but a coordination and information sharing process.Support will
be available to assist schools in completing grant proposals and to
publicize the opportunities available throughout the system.Additional
staff wjll not be required to implement and maintain the process outlined
in the procedure.
It was suggested that the word "appropriate"be replaced with "where
assistance is requested"in the last line of section 3.0 of the procedure.
It was moved by Trustee Cartier and carried that,following the wording
changes being made,the draft independent procedure be posted on the
Board's website for public input.
John Cuddle joined the meeting to discuss the draft independent
procedures described in items 4.b.c.and d.prepared by the Human
Resource Services Department in order to harmonize the policies and
procedures from the predecessor boards on these topics.
4. b.Employees Seeking/Holding Public Office
Mr.Cuddie described the procedure,Employees Seeking/Holding Public
Office,noting it provides for employees who are elected to the provincial
or federal legislature.They may be granted up to five years'unpaid leave
or,if elected to other public office,an unpaid leave for one term of office
or upto ten working days per year.
c.Teacher Exchanges
The Teacher Exchanges procedure standardizes eligibility require-ments
andthe application procedure,andsets out the conditions under which
teachers may be approved for leave.
d.External Teacher Hiring
The External Teacher Hiring procedure formalizes the Board's practice
regarding teacher hiring and specifically outlines the process for applying,
including a reference check form,the interview record and a
Recommendation for Hire form..
It was clarified that supply teachers are considered an external hire and
that Principals make the recommendation to hire and complete the
reference check.Principals will be apprized ofthe draft document
2001 June 26...256
It was moved by Trustee Stevenson and carried that the three
Independent procedures beposted ontheBoard's website for public input
and brought to the Board for information inthe fall.
5.CONSIDERATION OF POLICY/PROCEDURE FOLLOWING PUBLIC
INPUT
a. Progressive Discipline forEmployees -Policy and Procedure
Superintendent Linda Peckjoinedthe meeting to provide an overview of
public input received onthe procedure related to Progressive Discipline
forEmployees. Acopy ofthe input is attached fortrustees'information.
Mrs.Peck noted thatthe number ofdays notice thatan employee would
have prior to a BoaVd hearing has been changed from 8 to 15 working
days.It wasalso clarified thatthe Executive Superintendent of Human
Resource Services will attendandpresentat the hearings.
Committee membersagreedthattwoworking days would be sufficient for
trusteesto receive information regarding disciplinary hearings,with the
proviso thatthe information is identified clearly in the regular Board
package in a separate confidential envelope.The following
recommendations were moved byTrustee Anstead aridcarried:
That two working days be provided to receive Information regarding
disciplinary hearings included with and cleariy identified in the regular
Board package in aseparate confidential envelope,and That the draft
policy be fonwarded tothe Board for approval andthe procedure for
trustees'information.
Acopy of the Progressive Discipline training manual for supervisory staff
isincluded withthis report.
5. b.Procedures for the Supervision of Support Staff
Beth Strong joined the meeting to describe the procedure related to
supen/ision ofsupport staff.
She noted the document includes a goal setting component and three
types ofappraisal-during the prpbationary period (including three formal
reviews),a performance appraisal,and a trial period report used to
assess anemployeewhotakes ona newrolei.e.a promotion ortransfer.
The trial period assessment will include two formal assessments within
the trialperiod.
2001 June 26...257
It was emphasized that the principal is responsible for supervision of
school-based support staff.Atraln-the-trainer model is being developed.
A review of the procedure will be conducted after a full year of
implementation to consider if the document canbe improved.
c.Procedure for Supervision of Managers
Peter Martin described highlights of the Supervision of Managers
document noting ithasbeendeveloped asa tool to provide feedback and
includes expectations that managers will seek out mentoring
opportunities.
The Principal and Vice-Principal supervision document was examined in
preparing the procedures for Managers.It follows the characteristics of
a caring learning community,goal setting,and the three levels of growth
described inthe Support Staffmaterial.
5. d.Procedures for Supervision of Supervisory Officers
Superintendents MikeSereda and Lorayne Robertsonjoined the meeting
to discuss the Procedures for the Supervision of Supervisory Officers.
The document is similar to the other two supervision documents
described above.
It is consistent with the framework of a caring learning community,and
includes the personal,department and system goal setting component.
The document also includes a process to assist supervisory officers who
may be experiencing difficulty inthe role.
The three documents have been reviewed by Executive Council and
vetted through the appropriate employee groups and will be posted on
the Board's website for the information of all employees.
It was moved by Trustee Roberts and carried that the three supervision
documents be forwarded to the Board for information (attached).
e. Safe Schools ActRequirements
Superintendent Gerry Treble joined the meeting to discuss the following
policies and procedures:
-Suspension ofStudents Policy and Procedure;
-Expulsion ofStudents and Procedure;
-Code of Conduct Procedure;
-Police/Board Protocol.
2001 June 26...258
While the suspension and expulsion regulations have not yet been
proclaimed,itis anticipated that Board policies and procedures will be
required to be in effect at the end ofthis school year.Superintendent
Treble hasbeen involved onthe OPSBA writing team and it is anticipated
thatthese documents will meetthe Ministry of Education guidelines.
He noted that two inquiries were received from the web site posting but
no suggestions for change were offered.
Because the timeframe for receiving input was short in orderto seek
Boardapprovalon June 26,subjecttothe proclamation,the timeframefor
public input was extended toJune29.Any suggested changes for the
procedure will be broughttothe PolicyWorking Committeeforadditional
information.
It was moved byTrustee Cartier thattheSafe Schools policies related to
suspension and expulsion be forwarded to the Board for approval,
pending proclamation and the supporting procedures for information
(attached).
Safe Schools ActProcedures: Code ofConduct, Police/BoardProtocol
Superintendent Treble noted that authorization has been given ,to
proceed withimplementation of the Code of Conduct and Police/Board
Protocol.They must be inplace by September 1.The documents are
concurrently being approved bytenother community partners.
Itwas moved byTrusteeCartierthattheaboveproceduresbe forwarded
tothe Board for information (attached).
6.DRAFT POLICY/PROCEDURE REQUIRING FURTHER
CONSIDERATION -none
7.SUGGESTED POLICY/PROCEDURE REVISIONS
a.Computer Security Procedure
Pat Robinson and Bob Beatty joined the meeting to describethe draft
independent procedure related to computer security.
They clarified that the procedure will assist schools in ensuring that
computer resources are used appropriately and will be included Inthe
schools' Code of Conduct for student and parents'information in
September.It was suggested that a notice also be displayed in every
school's computer lab.
Thedraftprocedure replaces the existingprocedureentitled "Information
Resources Security Procedures"which has been widely distributed and
was put in place in 1998.
2001 June 26...259
The document has been vetted through the Operations Council andthe
Principals'Council.Legal counsel will also be requested to review the
document.Appendices include a letter to parents,a letter tostaff,and a
list of definitions used in the material.
It was moved by Trustee Roberts and carried that the procedure be
referred to the June 26 Board for information.
b. Student Representative on the Board
Superintendent Rick Murray and Student Trustee Peter Doelman joined
the meeting to address Peter's request for amendment to the Board
policy.
The following suggested revisions tothe policy were discussed:
- thatthestudent representative be called "Student trusteeonthe Board"
inallreferences to the position;
-that the term of office include the months of July and August running
from August 1to July 31 rather than the academic year;
-that selection of the student trustee occur before the end of April
annually;
- that on motions particularly pertinent to students,the student be
allowed to request his/her position be officially recorded in the minutes.
It was noted thatthe Chair could make a ruling to havethe student's
views recorded in the minutes ora vote taken by thetrusteesto record
the comments.
It was moved by Trustee Stevenson and carried to accept the
recommendation that the concepts be Included in the policy and brought
back to a future meeting of the Policy Working Committee for review prior
to being presentedtothe Board for approval.
7. c. Revised FieldTrip Procedure
Superintendent Paul Mennill joined the meeting to provide an overview
ofrevisions tothe Field Trip policy noting that no Input had been received'
fromthe posting on the website.
It was moved by Trustee Roberts and carried that the revised policy be
referred to the Board for approval for implementation in September.
8.OTHER BUSINESS
2001 June 26...260
a. The request from ETFO to consider developing a "No Sweat"
Procurement policy was deferredtothe September meeting.
9.ADJOURNMENT - 5:05 p.m.
RECOMMENDATIONS
1.That the draft policy on Progressive Discipline of Employees be
forwarded tothe Board for approval and the procedurefor Information.
2.That two working days be provided to receive information regarding
employeedisciplinary hearings,included with and clearly identified inthe
regular Board meeting agenda package.
3. ThattheSafe Schools policies relatedtosuspensionand expulsion of
studentsbe forwarded tothe Board for approval,subject to proclamation,
and the supporting procedures forinformation.
4.That the revised Field Trip policy be fonvarded tothe Board for approval
atthe 2001 June26 meeting for implementation in 2001 September.
5. That the Cornputer Security procedure be referred to the 2001 June 26
Board for information.
S.PETERS.
Chairperson
The recommendations were adopted on motionof Peters and Cartier.
83-G.REPORT OF THE CHAIRS'COMMITTEE
2001 June 18
3:00 p.m.-5:30 p.m..
Members Administration and Others
D.Stewart (Chair)J.Laughlin
J.Bennett s.Christie .
P.Jaffe
1.AGENDA REVIEW OF JUNE 26 BOARD MEETING
The in-camera and public agendas for the 2001 June26 Board meeting were
discussed and approved.
2.OPSBA ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP FEES/SURVEY/INVOICE
The invoiceforcontinued membership inOPSBAwas reviewed. The Chairs'
Committee recommended the Board continue to belong to this provincial
organization.Membership fees have been built into the 2001 -2002 budget.
2001 June 26...261
3.TRUSTEE REPRESENTATIVES FROM OXFORD/MIDDLESEX ON
FOUNDATION
It wasrecommended that Graham Hart and Sharon Peters be appointed trustee
representatives from Oxford and Middlesex Counties on the Foundation.
4.STUDENT TRUSTEE -POLICY-PROVINCIAL STUDENT ORGANIZATION -
OSTA-AECO
Recommendations from StudentTrusteePeter Doelman wereconsidered.The
Chairs'Committee supports the new student trustee's involvement provincially
and suggested he meet with Rick Murray for his assistance in enhancing
communication with students across the District.
The issue of allocating professional development fundsforthe studenttrustee
was discussed.The Director will work with the Superintendent of Business to
allocate funds to support the student trustee to take part In provincial meetings
and conferences in recognition of his election to the District Elementary Public
Board Council (EPBC)at the Ontario Student Trustees'Association (OSTA)
annual general meeting.
5. AUTHORITY OF CHAIR OVER THE SUMMER
It wasnotedthat traditionally theChairhas made routine decisionsintheabsent
of the Board throughout the summer and provided a report to trustees in August
confirmingthe matters that had been considered and decisions made.
In the event that a serious Issue develops,an emergency meeting will becalled
bythe Chair with 48 hours notice. Each trustee will be asked to leave their
summer contact number with Secretary Sue Pullam.
6.CORRESPONDENCE - TAX CREDIT
Correspondencerelatedtotheproposedtaxcredithas been made available in
the trustee lounge.
2001 June 26...262
7.FUTURE DATES FOR CHAIRS'COMMITTEE
It was agreed thatthe Chairs'Committee will meetatthe following datesand
times:2001 August28at 3:30p.m.prior tothe Board meeting;
September 19 at 9:00 a.m.;
October 17 at 8:30 a.m.,
November 21 at 9:00 a.m.and
December 12 at 9:00 a.m.
8.INFORMATION COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE
Itwas agreed that Administration wouldplanthefirst information Committeeof
the Whole meeting inSeptemberand bring a draftlistoftopicsforthe 2001 -02
school year to the this meeting fordiscussion and approval.Trustees with
specific requests for Individual topics.are asked to forwardthem to the Director
by 2001 June 30.
9.TRUSTEECONFERENCEANDPROFESSIONALDEVELOPMENT ACCOUNT
The Chairs' Committee confirmed itis looking forvolunteersto coordinate the
trustees conference and professional development account.Interested trustee
should contact the Chair no later than 2001 June 30.
RECOMMENDATIONS
1.That Graham Hart and Sharon Petersbe appointed trustee representatives
from Oxford and Middlesex Counties on the Foundation.
2. Thatthe Thames.Valley District School Board continue to belong tothe Ontario
Public School Boards'Association and that administration be'requestedto
forward the membership feestothe OPSBA office on 2001 September 01.
Next Committee Meeting Date:2001 August 28,3:30 p.m.
D.STEWART
Chairperson
The recommendations were adopted on motionofJaffe and Bennett.
83-H. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE OF THEWHOLE- 2001 JUNE 26
In-Camera
2001 June 26...263
Members Present
D.Stewart
J.Bennett,Chair
J.Hunter
D.Anstead
S.Peters
T.Roberts
P.Sattler
L.Stevenson
P. Schuyler (5:27)
A.Cartier
G.Hart
P.Jaffe
S.Deller
Administration and Others
J.Laughlin
P.Gryseels
B. Bryce
B.Greene
C. Murphy
M.Sereda
G.Jazey
P.Mennill
L Robertson
J. Empringham
R. Murray
G.Treble
L.Peck
S.Christie
D.Bradford
S.Galati
P. Thorup
The Committee met In camera from 5:10 p.m.to 6:29 p.m.and from 7:17 p.m.to
10:45 p.m.
Trustee Jaffe declared a conflict of interest regarding discussions related to global
compensation parameters.
Confidentialpersonal and negotiation matters were discussed.
RECOMMENDATION:
1.That the motions approved related to personal and negotiation matters be
approved.
D.STEWART
Chairperson
The recommendationwas adopted on motionofJ. Hunterand S. Peters.
MOTIONS - NOTICE OF WHICH HAS BEEN GIVEN
84.None
ADDITIONAL BUSINESS
85.2001 -2002 SCHOOL RENEWAL PROJECTS
The Administration provided information regarding the 2000-2001 School
Renewal Projectsto be completedby 2001 August 31.
2001 June 26...264
The 2000-2001 School Renewal Program was approved bythe Board with the
2000-2001 Budget.TheSchool Renewal Program is made upof18sections
which encompasses major building component replacements as well as
Program Enhancement,Health and Safety, and Barrier-Free Allowances.
Projects for each section were determined from the Facility Audit rankings for
each building component oras directed by Operations Services and Program
Service. Thereportdetails individual projectsthatare assigned toeach section.
Itshouldbe notedthatnot all sectionbudgetshave been totally expendeddue
to an escalation in pricing that Facility Serviceshave experienced recently.
Additional projects will be addedoncetendershavebeen opened,ifbudgets
permit. A detailed report of all projects completed with actual cost will be
presented to the Board in the Fall of 2001.
The School Renewal Grant isalsousedto fund the following:
a) Woodstock Collegiate Institute Renewal
As approved by the Board,this allocation is to provide funding to
completeall building code upgrades as wellas the replacement ofthe
heating and electrical systems.The project has an estimated cost of
$4.3 Million andistobefundedoverfouryears from theSchool Renewal
Grant.
b) Pupil Accommodation Debt Cost
This portion of the School Renewal Grant is to be used to fund the
principal and interestpayments on projectsfor pupil accommodation
presentlyunder construction orprojects recently completed.
The School Renewal Grant budget has been revised from the approved
allocation listed inthe 2000-2001 Budgetdue tothe following:
a)Additional $953 836 in funding for barrier free alterations received by
the Board as a one time grant to address barrier free renovations for
our schools.
b) $350 000 transferred from the Pupil Accommodation DebtCost to
Portable Repairs/Minor Accommodation Alterations and $355 000
carried fonvard from the 1999-2000 Portable Repair/Minor
Accommodation Alterations budgetto fund air quality and mould
deficiencies inour portable classrooms.
V.
2001 June 26...265
c)As detailed in the Deficit Reduction Plan,the maintenance supplies
and services budget was reduced by 1.6 Million.To help fund
needed repairs and replacement normally covered by this budget,
Executive Council decided to cancel the$500 000 budgeted for
Program Enhancement and the$300 000 originally budgeted for
barrier free alterations (prior to receiving the additional Grant)and
move the$ 800000to supplement the appropriate School Renewal
Program sections to fund necessary maintenance projects.
Grants
• 2000/2001 School Renewal Grant $ 9 227 576
•Additional barrier free alterations Grant $ 953 836
•1999/2000 Portable Repair/Minor $355 000
Accommodation Alteratipns carriedfonvard
TOTAL GRANTS '$10 536 412 •
Expenditure
• School Renewal Program $ 7 586 412
• WoodstockCollegiate Institute Renewal $ 1 100 000
• Pupil Accommodation Debt Cost $ 1 850 OOP
TOTAL EXPENDITURE $10 536 412
COMMUNICATION
86-A.REPORTOFTHE ONTARIO PUBLIC SCHOOL BOARDS'ASSOCIATION
ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING,2001 June 14-17
Present from TVDSB:D.Anstead, L.Stevenson. J. Bennett
2001 June 14
The annual General Meeting began with a Board of Director's meeting at
2:00 p.m.The agenda was lengthy and covered current issues facing
education In Ontario.
2001 June 15-17
OPSBA and the host district arranged many workshops and information
sessions involving personnel from both the Ministries of Finance and
Education.Items discussed included;ISA grants,general and specific
areas of funding,methods used to reach grant criteria,transportation,
strategic planning,testing (both students and teacher),labour relations,
including the prospects of settlements inthearea of co-curricular activities
inthe secondary panel.
2001 June 26...266
Minister Ecl<erwas in attendance for anhour on Saturday,but hermessage
did not appear to be well received.The Minister spent 50 minutes
identifying initiatives takenbyhergovernmentto 'reform'educationandleft
the audienceoniy 10 minutes forquestions.
In between sessions and workshops the election of a new OPSBA
Executive was held.Liz Sandals was re-electedas President,while Gerri
Gershonwas elected Vice-President and Rick Wilson was elected 2™^Vice
President.Regional Elections werealsoheld and colleen Schenk,from the
Avon Maitland District,was elected Vice-Presidentforthe Western area.
Linda Stevenson was re-elected toserveonthe Program Committee and
Diana Anstead was re-elected to sen/e onthe Policy Committee.
The StudentTrustees iattended sessions devoted totheirconcerns as well
as joining other trustees forthe open sessions.
The AGM closed with a^meeting of the Board of Directors to assign
responsibilities for the incoming Executive and to plan meetings for the
upcoming year.
Personal Highlights:
a)The presentation of the Dr.Harry Paikin Memorial Award to Joyce
Bennett.
Bill Brock did an excellent job of introducing Joyce and providing the
audience witha listing ofsome of her achievements as a Trustee for
the previous London Board of Education and now the Thames Valley
District School Board.
Joyce responded with an exceptional acceptance speech and her
compassion and humility touched the audience who responded by
.giving her a standing ovation.
b)The presentation,on Saturday morning,by Dr.Rudy Crewe.
Dr.Crewe Is the Executive Director ofthe Institute for K-12 Leadership
atthe University of Washington USA.He is internationaiiy recognized
forhis work in implementing urban educational reforms.
N.J
2001 June 26...267
Dr.Crewe was enthusiastic about his methods of reform,recognizing
that itwas imperative that money has to accompany 'change'. He
emphasised that all educational changes havea positive side-they
just needed to be lookedfor. Dr.Crewe was optimistic forthe future
and believed that two itemshadto be a partofeverystudent'sday.
Onewasthat all students should participate insome form of physical
activity and the other was that all student's must have constant
exposure to 'the arts'.
D.ANSTEAD,
Trustee
The following resolution was adopted on motion of L.Stevensonand P.Schuyler.
86-B. And resolved that the Thames Valley District School Board endorse Phi
Delta Kappa andits partner Public Education Rights Coalition organizing a
series of forums onthe purposes,effectiveness and changes needed in
publicly-funded schools In and around London.
86-C.Acopyofa letter from the Bluewater District School Board to Mike Harris,
Premierof Ontario,regarding the proposed Equity in Education Tax Credit
forparents ofstudents attending privateschool;
87.NOTICE OF MOTIONS -none
88.GOOD NEWS ITEMS
Trustee Phil Schuyler reported that he attended an excellent graduation
•ceremony at Thames Secondary School, London, and that First Nations
student Yehunta John was this year's Valedictorian.
Trustee Joyce Bennett advised thatshe attended the Forest City graduation
ceremony heldat Central Secondary School,London,on 2001 June 26;the
enthusiasm displayed by these graduating students was evident and
recognized by everyone present.
ADJOURNMENT
The meeting adjourned at 11:45 p.m. on motionof L.Stevenson and T. Roberts.
CONFIRMED:
Chairperson
2001 June 26...268
SUMMARY OF APPROVED RECOMMENDATIONS OF JUNE 26,2001 BOARD
MEETING:
-That the Board adjust the secondary average class ratio of21:1 established in the
Education Act,Section 170.1(3)such that it not exceed 22:1 for the purpose of
addressing workload issuesandto encourage the re-establishment ofco-instructional
activities pending the passage of the necessary legislation and regulation.
That theBoard enter Into the Proposed Energy Management Agreement with Ontario
HydroEnergy Incorporated.
•That the Board approve the 2001-2002 Special Education Plan and direct
Administration to fonward ittothe Ministry of Education for approval and Include a
copy ofthe letter to.Gerry Townsend,Ministry of Education.
That the following draft School Council policies be approved:
Parent Members,
Conflict Resolution Process for Internal School Council Disputes,
Allocation of Funding
Student Dress Codes.
That the draft Wage Loss Replacement Plan policy be approved.
Thatthe revised Field Trip policy be approved.
That the draft policy on Progressive Discipline of Employees be forwarded tothe
Boardforapprovaland the procedure for information.
That the Safe Schools policies related to suspension and expulsion be fonwarded to
the Board for approval,pending proclamation
-That the inclusion of three early dismissal days in the 2001-2002 school year
calendar,be approved.
That the Thames Valley District School Board award contracts to Gordon Ruth and
Communication Cabling Systems (CCS)as primary vendors to supply data wiring for
the.perlod ending December 31,2002.This recommendation Includes a secondary
vendor,Interlink Telecommunications Inc.to ensure that the bulk of the data wiring
can be completed during the summer months to minimize disruption in the
classrooms.
-That the Thames Valley District School Board enter Into a contract with Strategic
Concepts Group for the lease of 31 Fileservers consistent with their response for the
Board's Request for Proposal.The contract will be for a three-year period,with the
machines being returned at the end of the contract.
-That the Native Cultural Fund for the 2001 -2002 school year,be approved.
-That SEAC's recommendation to endorse the.Report tothe Minister of Education on
the Review of the Provision of Special Education Programs and Special Education
Sen/ices,(Special Education Plan)for 2001 -2002;however.SEAC questions the
adequacy of the revised 2001 -2002 budget to implement the Plan and.recognizes
that the funding model isthe underlying problem be supported.
2001 June 26...269
APPROVED RECOMMENDATIONS FROM JUNE 26,2001 -CONT'D
That two working days be provided to receive information regarding disciplinary
hearings included with and clearly identified in the regular Board pacl<age in a
separate confidential envelope,and that the draft policybe approved.
That Graham Hart and Sharon Peters be appointed trustee representatives from
Oxford and Middlesex Counties on the Foundation.
That the Thames ValleyDistrictSchool Boardcontinue to belong tothe Ontario Public
School Boards*Association and that administration be requested to fonward the
membership fees to the OPSBA office on 2001 September 01.
And resolved thattheThames Valley District School Board endorse Phi Delta Kappa
and itspartner PublicEducationRights Coalition organizinga series offorumsonthe
purposes,effectiveness and changes needed in publicly-funded schools in and
around London.
Thatthe motion approvedat theJune 26 in-camera meeting relatedtopersonalarid
negotiation matters be approved.
CONFIRMED
J ,A
CHAIRPERSON
2001 June26...272
Thames ValleyDistrictSchool Board DRAFT POLICY
Title SCHOOL COUNCILS •Policy No.
PARENT MEMBERS
Department Human Resource Services Status Draft
Referencefs)Effective Date 2001.09.01
It Is the policy ofthe Board tfiat the number of parent members ofa school council
established by the Board shall be,unless otherwise specified by a school council by
law,seven.
AdministeredBy Board Resolution/Date
Date of Last Amendment
2001 June 26...273
Thames Valley District School Board DRAFT POLICY
Title SCHOOL COUNCILS -CONFLICT Policy No.
RESOLUTION PROCESS FOR
INTERNAL SCHOOL COUNCIL
DISPUTES
Department Human Resource Services Status Draft
Reference(s)Regulation 612(15)Ss (2)and Effective Date 2001 09 01
Itis the policy of the Board that should an internal school council dispute arise that
cannot be resolved bythe members ofthe school council amongst themselves,both the
School Council Chair and the Principal will so advise the Executive Superintendent of
Human Resource Services and the Superintendent of Education for that school.The
Executive Superintendent of IHuman Resource Services and the Superintendent of
Education will determine which approach will be utilized in an attempt to resolve the
conflict.
Administered By Board Resolution/Date
Date of Last Amendment
2001 June 26...274
Thames Valley District School Board
DRAFT
POUCY
Title ALLOCATION OF FUNDING Policy No.
-SCHOOL COUNCILS
Department DIRECTOR'S OFFICE Status DRAFT
Reference(s)Effective Date
Itis the policy ofthe Boardthat the allocation of funding to school councilsforschool
council expenses will be based on the funding provided by the Ministry of Education
specifically Identified forthe operation of school councils.
Administered By EXECUTIVE Board Resolution/Date
SUPERINTENDENT OF
BUSINESS
Date of Last
Amendment
2001 June 26...275
Thames Valley District School Board DRAFT
POLICY
Title STUDENT DRESS CODES Policy No.
Department OPERATIONS SERVICES Status DRAFT
Reference(s)SAFE SCHOOLS ACT,2001 Effective 2001 06 30
SUB-SECTION 302(5)Date
It is the policy of the Board that individual schools establish a student dress code
respecting appropriate dress for pupils.Principals will ensure that a consultation
process is in place and that school policies and guidelines address the following
requirements:
Parents are encouraged tobe extensively involvedand activeinthe
decision-making process through their school councils.
The consultation process is designed to enable a majority of
parents,throughtheirschool councils,todecide what an appropriate
dress policy should be intheir ownschool.
Whilea consensual approach is recommended.Ifa vote is used, a
majority of parents is defined as 70% ofthe parents/guardians who
vote (one vote per family)of registered students Inthe school.
• The school's statement of principles which forms the basis of the
school's student dress code will relate to fostering a safer and more
respectful learning and teaching environment.
The school dress code will be consistent with the Human Rights
Code and the Charter of Rights and Freedoms (e.g.disability,
religious beliefs).
• Anyterms used inthe dress code will be defined Inthe code (e.g.
appropriate dress,dress code or school code).
•Expectations will be stated for student compliance with the school
policy(e.g. appropriate dress,dress code or school uniforms)and
will take intoconsideration local circumstances and the principal's
authority under the Education Act.
•Issues of affordabllity will be addressed inthe process.No student
will be denied access to school as a result of Inability to afford
appropriate clothing required by a school's dress code.
2001 June 26...276
Each school will annually review the school's dress code. This
reviewprocess shallinclude consultation with students, schoolstaff,
volunteers working inschools,parents and guardians.
Acopy of the school's dress code will be filed annually with the
school's Superintendent of Education who will reviewand monitor
the process of dress code development.
Administered By Operations Services Board Resolution/
Date
Date of Last
Amendment
2001 June 26...277
Thames Valley District School Board DRAFT
POLICY
Title Wage Loss Replacement Plan PolicyNo.
Department Human Resource Services Status Draft
Reference(s)Employment Insurance Act Effective Date
Itisthe policy ofthe Board that,effective 200t ,the requirements of
the Employment Insurance Act for WageLoss Replacement Plans will be fulfilled in
order to obtain the Full Premium Reduction available.
Administered By Board Resolution/Date
Date of Last Amendment
2001 June 26...278
Thames Valley District School Board POLICY
Title FIELD TRIPS &EXCURSIONS PolicyNo.
Department PROGRAM SERVICES Status APPROVED
Reference(s)Ont.Guide to Ontario Pools -Effective Date 2001 09 01
Reg 565 - Health Protection and
Promotion Act
Itisthe policy ofthe Boardtosupport well plannedand properlyorganized field trips
which bring significant educational value to our students.These experiences
deepen understanding ofconceptspresented within the classroom curriculum and
provide opportunities forsocial development.
TheBoarddesignates responsibility forschool field tripstothe Director ofEducation
who will require that:
the school Principalapprove any trip involving students.
the teacher inform parents/guardians and parents/guardians sign approval
forany tripwhichtakes students beyond the school property.
parents/guardians are informed,in writing,as early as possible of courses
and activities which involve regulartravelaway from the school,e.g. physical
education courses that include instruction at tennis courts,arenas etc.
all tripsshall adhere to the procedures inthis policy.
Administered By
EXECUTIVE SUPERINTENDENT Board Resolution
OF PROGRAM SERVICES Date
Date of Last
Amendment
2001 June 26...279
Thames Valley District School Board DRAFT POUCY
Title PROGRESSIVE DISCIPLINE 0 F Policy No.
EMPLOYEES
Department HUMAN RESOURCE SERVICES Status
Reference(s)Supervision of Employees Effective Date
Itis the policyofthe Board that employees whose performance and/or behaviour do not
meet accepted standards will be subject to fair,consistent and progressive discipline.
Employees are expected to complywithBoard policies,procedures and directives as
well as Ministry regulations.
The Board believes that its first priority is to providethe best possible education for all
students inits charge.The Boardbelieves that itisthe responsibilityof all employees:
• to project a professional behaviour consistent withindividuals serving as role
models for students,and
• to perform their assigned responsibilities in a competent manner.
Ifallegations of inappropriate conduct or unsatisfactory work performance are made
regarding an employee,the employee will be provided withan opportunity to know the
specifics of the allegations and to respond to them.
The seriousness of the circumstances vtnll dictate the entry level In the discipline
procedure and the responsibilities for the Board and/or its Administration.
Administered By Board Resolution/Date
Date of Last Amendment
2001 June26...280
Thames Valley District School Board POLICY
Title SUSPENSION OF STUDENTS Policy No.
Department OPERATIONS SERVICES Status
Reference(s)Effective Date 1998 01 01
Revised 199810 13
Draft 2001 06 01
Itisthe policy ofthe Boardtodeal with suspensions ofstudents inaccordance with the
EducationActas amended bythe Safe SchoolAct2000,the regulations and Operations
Services Procedures which set out specific details in accordance withthe foregoing.
The powers and duties ofthe Boardinan appeal of suspension shall be exercised and
performed by a committee of three members of the Board as designated by the
chairperson ofthe Board. Aquorum is twomembers. Asupervisory officer will assist
the committee inconducting the hearing and act inan advisory role tothe committeeon
procedural matters during both the appeal hearing and the committee's subsequent
deliberations.
The supervisory officer vnll advise the committee on any procedural matters that may
arise but will not vote in the actual decision to confirm, modify or remove the
suspension.
Areport ofthe committee's decision will be presented tothe Boardforreceipt at the next
in-camera meetingofthe Board following the suspension appeal hearing.All decisions
of the Board are final.
Administered By Board Resolution/Date
Date of Last Amendment
2001 June 26...281
Thames Valley District School Board POLICY
Title EXPULSION OF
STUDENTS
Policy No.
Department OPERATIONS
SERVICES
Status
Reference(s)Effective Date
Revised
Draft
1998 01 01
1999 02 01
2001 06 01
Itis the policy of the Board to deal with expulsions of students in accordance withthe
Education Act as amended by the Safe Schools Act 2000, the regulations and
Operations Services Procedures which set out specific details in accordance withthe
foregoing. The powers and duties ofthe Board to expel a student from its schools,hear
expulsion appeals or to re-admitto a school a student who has been expelled shall be
exercised and performed by committees of three or more members of the Board as
designated bythe chairperson ofthe Board. Aquorum istwo members.The Executive
Superintendent ofOperations Services or designate will act inan advisory roleto the
committee on procedural matters during the expulsion hearing and the committee's
subsequent deliberations.
The Executive Superintendent of Operations Services or designate will advise the
committee
on any procedural matters that may arise but will not vote inthe actual decision whether
or not
to expel the pupil.
Areportofthe committee'sdecision will be presented tothe Boardforreceiptatthe next
in-camera meetingof the Board following the expulsionhearing.All decisions ofthe
Board are final.
Administered By Board Resolution/Date
Date of Last Amendment