12/19/2006 - Regular Board MeetingTHAMES VALLEY DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD
REGULAR BOARD MEETING,PUBLIC SESSION
2006,DECEMBER 19,7:00 P.M.
BOARD ROOM,EDUCATION CENTRE
AGENDA
V-verbal
M -material
1.CALL TO ORDER V
2.O CANADA V
3.SPECIAL MUSICAL PRESENTATION -Glencoe District High School V
4.APPROVAL OF AGENDA M
5.OFFICIAL RECORD M
6.RECOGNITIONS V
7.CONFLICTS OF INTEREST V
8.CHAIR'S ANNOUNCEMENTS V
9.DIRECTOR'S ANNOUNCEMENTS V
10. MINUTES OF THE REGULAR BOARD MEETING OF 2006 NOVEMBER 28,SPECIAL M
MEETING OF 2006 DECEMBER 05 AND INAUGURAL MEETING OF 2006
DECEMBER 12
a.Confirmation of Minutes
b.Business Arising from the Minutes
11.REPORTS FROM THE ADMINISTRATION
a.School Accommodation Status Report Update M
b.Update on French Immersion Capacity Issues for 2007 September M
c.Provincial Auditor's Recommendations M
(Material to be faxed prior to meeting)
d.Monthly Financial Reporting M
e.Departmental Updates M
12.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES
a.Report from the Committee to Review the Environment of Safety In Our Schools M
b.Policy Working Committee,2006 November 28 M
c.Committee of the Whole - In Camera,2006 December 05 M
d.Chairs'Committee,2006 December 06 M
e.Chairs'Committee,2006 December 13 M
f.Trustee P.D.Committee,2006 November 28 M
g.Committee of the Whole,In Camera,2006 December 19 V
13.COMMUNICATIONS
a.Chair's Summary Update V
b.Ontario Public School Boards'Association -Update V
c.Student Trustees'Update V
d.Middlesex-London Health Unit -Report on Healthy Eating Champions Award M
e.Middlesex-London Health Unit-Turn off the Screens Week M
/
f.Middlesex-London Health Unit -Healthy Active School Award M
g.Appointment to Special Education Advisory Committee M
h.Canadian Parents for French (Ontario)M
14.NOTICE OF MOTION -none
15.MOTION -NOTICE OF WHICH HAS BEEN GIVEN
Trustee Jaffe M
16.ADDITIONAL ITEMS
17.QUESTIONS/COMMENTS BY MEMBERS
18.ADJOURNMENT
THAMES VALLEY DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD
REGULAR MEETING,PUBLIC SESSION
2006 DECEMBER 19 c
The Boardmetinregular session on2006December 19 inthe BoardRoomatthe EducationCentre,meeting
in public session from 7:03 p.m.to 10:55 p.m. The following were inattendance:
TRUSTEES
S.Doub
F.Exley
T.Grant
G.Hart
M.Hendrick
ADMINISTRATION AND OTHERS
B.Bryce
B.Greene
C.Murphy
M.Sereda
J.Thorpe
K.Daiton
Regrets:J.Bennett
P.Jaffe
J.Koscik (-9:30)
K. North (-9:30).
S.Peters
8.Polhiii
J.Empringham
K.Havelka
L.Hutchinson
B.Tucker
B.Wagner
K.Wilkinson
K.Bushell
T.Roberts
P.Sattler
J.Stewart
R.Tisdale
S.Christie
C.Dennett
K.Meeson
C.McKenzie
J.Neville
G.Owen
J.Roth
W.Scott
1.CALL TO ORDER
Board Chairperson P.Sattler called the meeting to order.
2./3.O CANADA AND MUSICAL PRESENTATION
The appreciationofthe Boardwas extended to the Glencoe District High School (Glencoe)Senior
Band and Conductor Glen Woodburn for leading in the singing of O'Canada and performing three
musical selections.
4.APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Items 12.a "Report from the Committee to Review the Environment of Safety in our Schools",15.
"Motion -Notice of Which Has Been Given"and 13.c."Student Trustees'Update"to follow Item 10
and adding 2007 Education Week as item 12.h.were approved on motion of P.Jaffe and T. Grant.
The amended agenda was approved on motion of F. Exley and seconded by J.Stewart.
5.OFFICIAL RECORD
S. Christie,Supervisor -Corporate Services,read the following official record into the minutes:
We regret to record the death of John Greenslade,a teacher at Clara Brenton Public School,
London,on 2006 December 02.
6.RECOGNITIONS -none
7.CONFLICTS OF INTEREST • No conflicts of interest were declared.
8.CHAIR'S ANNOUNCEMENTS none
9.DIRECTOR'S ANNOUNCEMENTS
Director Bryce advised that on 2007 December 20, a seasonal greeting featuring students from
across Thames Valley will appear on the TVDSB website.He extended appreciation to C.Dennett
and J. Antoniuk,Public Affairs&Community Relations,forfaoilitating this excellent videotaped holiday
message.
2006 December 19...2
10.a.CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES
The minutes of the 2006 November 28,2006 December 05 and 2006 December 12 were
approved on motion of T.Roberts and 8.Doub.
b.BUSINESS ARISING FROM MINUTES -none
11.REPORTS FROM THE ADMINISTRATION
a.SCHOOL ACCOMMODATION STATUS REPORT UPDATE
J.Thorpe,Executive Superintendent,Operations Services,introduced a follow-up report in
response to public input on the recommendations submitted to the Board on 2006 October 24.
He provided background information referencing the reports of 2006 October 10 and 24 that
provided Trustees with school accommodation status reports related'to planning for 2007
September,Primary Class Size projects and French Immersion accommodation.
Following the 2006 October 24 meeting at which the Administration was given the authority to
proceed with the design and construction process for the primary class size projects and to
explore options for French Immersion,public input was to be sought on the recommendation for
a new school in south-east St.Thomas and additions and renovation projects for Algonquin and
Hickson Central Public Schools.
As was reported at the 2006 October 10 meeting,sufHcient funds are available to support these
projects.Following that meeting,four regional Capital Planning Advisory groups met and were
asked to provide input into those recommendations.Now that the input has been received,the
Administration is seeking direction as to next steps.K.Bushel!,Manager,Facility Services,
advised that if approved the design and construction process/recommendations will begin
immediately and reported back to the Board by 2007 May.It is anticipated that a Design
Committee will be established and public input sought at the conceptual design stage,with
building construction to commence in 2007 August towards a target school opening date of 2008
September.
RECOMMENDATIONS:
1.That the Board authorize Administration to begin the design for a new school in south-east
St.Thomas.
2.That the Board authorize the Administration to begin the design process for additions and
renovation projects at Algonquin and Hickson Central Public Schools.
Recommendation 1 was adopted on motion of F.Exley,seconded by T.Grant.
Recommendation 2 was adopted on motion of G. Hart,seconded by J.Stewart
Trustees Tisdale and Jaffe were absent during the second vote.
Trustee Hart requested that the Administration provide information related to the Glendale High
School addition/renovation at the 2007 January 09 Board meeting.
b.UPDATE ON FRENCH IMMERSION CAPACITY ISSUES FOR 2007 SEPTEMBER
Supt.Thorpe provided the following an update on French Immersion capacity issues for 2007
September.
Elgin County
The Administration has explored options for accommodation of French immersion pupils in Elgin
County consistent with direction received at the Board meeting of 2006 October 24.The above
recommendation flows from that review.
2006 December 19...3
11.REPORTS FROM THE ADMINISTRATION -cont'd
b.UPDATE ON FRENCH IMMERSION CAPACITY ISSUES FOR 2007 SEPTEMBER -cont'd
The Administration reviewed options available InSt.Thomas to address enrolment Increases
in French Immersion.The best option available is the one recommended.Should the Board
approve,a communication plan vj\\\be implemented to address this change.Preliminary
consultation at the school level suggests that this recommendation would be well received
among parents and students affected.
It is to be noted that.In order to accommodate this recommendation,a special education
class currently housed at Homedale Public School would be moved and that additional
portable classroom space would be made available at Homedale.Preliminary discussions
with the School Council and parents of the Wellington Street community Indicate that this
plan would have merit.Approval processes will require clarification based on Bill 51,
currently before the Provincial legislature,and with the City of St.Thomas for possible
portable relocation.
Exec.Supt.Thorpe explained that the Board previously authorized the creation of a new
French Immersion site at Princess Elizabeth Public School in London.In addition,a new
boundary was authorized for French Immersion within the City of London.Administration is
able to update Trustees to the effect that the following programs will be offered for
registration In anticipation of 2007 September.
The following programs will run at Princess Elizabeth Public School In London,should
enrolment warrant:
SK French Immersion;
•Grade 1 Late Entry French Immersion;
Grade 7 Late Entry French Immersion.
In addition,a decision will be made as to whether Late Entry Grade 7 will run at Princess
Anne Public School effective 2007 September depending on enrolment.
RECOMMENDATION:
That the grade 6 classes of French Immersion be moved from Wellington Street French
Immersion Public School to Homedale Public School effective 2007 September 01.
The recommendation was adopted on motion ofT.Grant,seconded by F.Exiey.Trustees Jaffe
and Stewart were absent for the vote.
c.PROVINCIAL AUDITOR'S RECOMMENDATIONS
Director Bryce Introduced the administrative response to the seven recommendations pertaining
to school boards contained in the Provincial Auditor's Report.On 2006 December 02,the
Provincial auditor released his Omnibus report. The 14 pages that pertained to school boards
contained 7 recommendations for consideration by all school boards across the province.
The Board's Senior Administration has reviewed in detail these recommendations and how they
can be incorporated into the Board's policy,procedure and practice.A report was provided
outlining the seven recommendations,the type of issues referenced as well as the
Administration's specific action responses.The Administration was proactive In bringing forward
some proposed revisions to the Expense Policy and Procedure to the Policy Working Committee
on 2006 October 24.Those revisions are currently on the Board web site for public Input.
On 2006 November 18,further discussion occurred at the Policy Working Committee and Itis
anticipated that additional revisions will be proposed at the 2007 January meeting.If approved
for posting,those draft revisions would be available for public input for 60 days.
2006 December 19...4
11.REPORTS FROM THE ADMINISTRATION -cont'd
0.PROVINCIAL AUDITOR'S RECOMMENDATIONS -cont'd
DirectorBryceadvised thatthetypes of issues thatthe provincial Auditoris reviewing are different
from the Board financial audit conducted by Deloitte &Touche.Exec.Supt.Greene reported that
in 2006 October,David Gurnham,Senior Auditor, Deloitte,presented the scope of the Board
audit. Mr.Gurnham will be attending the Board meeting of 2007 January 23 and has been asked
to address the issue of how it differs from the provincial Auditor's targeted approach.
d.MONTHLY FINANCIAL REPORTING
The month-end financial report as at 2006 October 31 was presented.The year-to-date activity
was provided and included a summary of revenues,expenditures by expenditure type,
expenditures by area,and expenditure type.
Exec.Supt.Greene explained that the monthly financial reporting is a high level summary on the
financial status of the Board and highlights items of significance.He advised that Trustee
orientation sessions are to be conducted over the next month specifically on 2007 January 30
when an overview of Business Services is to be held.A number of orientation session have been
planned during daytime hours offering two half-day sessions to provide newly elected trustee with
an opportunity to meet with Jane Roth,Manager,Financial Services and her staff.
Trustees will receive the Budget document and funding model Information as well as instruction
in accessing the Ministry of Education website and other relevant information.As previously
reported,the 2005-06 audited financial statement is to be presented by Deloitte &Touche on
2007 January 23.Manager Roth explained the revenues and expenditures by categories,
approved by trustees in 2006 August and subsequently sent to the Ministryof Education.
e.DEPARTMENTAL UPDATES
Director Bryce explained the rationale for presenting Departmental Updates noting that it provides
an opportunity for the Superintendent of each department to highlight the numerous Initiatives
undertaken In specific areas.Trustees were Invited to ask questions of clarification at the
meeting or to contact any of the Superintendents.The following departmental updates were
presented.
Program Services
The Applied Studies and the Arts update included:
Assessment and Evaluation Elementary
A committee of elementary teachers,administrators and program coordinators was recently
formed to carry out the mandate of producing an expected practice document concerning the
assessment and evaluation of student learning in the elementary panel.The goal is, by the
end of this school year,to produce a document much like the one for secondary along with
the roll out supports that will enable teachers to improve on their assessment skills;
Music
The Ontario Music Educator's Provincial Conference,Unison '06,was held in London
2006 November 2-4 and was a tremendous success.The 891 delegates from across the
province were captivated by Stephen Lewis'keynote address and enjoyed performances
and clinics throughout the weekend.Many Thames Valley teachers attended as
delegates,volunteered as committee members,conducted performances and led
professional development workshops.The outstanding Showcase Concert onthe Friday
night featured top notch community ensembles and many of our own performing groups
.from Beal S.S.,Central S.S.,Hlllcrest P.S.(London),Lester B.Pearson School for the
Arts,North Meadows P.S.,Oakridge S.S.,Saunders S.S.and Wilfrid Jury P.S.A
discerning crowd of Music educators gave them a prolonged,enthusiastic and well
deserved standing ovation.We are very proud of the leadership and musicianship
demonstrated by the teachers and students from TVDSB in this provincial forum.
2006 December 19...5
11.REPORTS FROM THE ADMINISTRATION -cont'd
e.DEPARTMENTAL UPDATES -cont'd
-Program Services - Arts -cont'd
-New instrumental Programs
In the past three years,v\/ith funding allocated from Program Services and the trustees,
the repair and replacement committee has worked hard to distribute funding to support
music programs with Instruments that were invery poor repair.This year,the committee
has determined that the funding ($35 000)will go toward developing new programs in
some of the thirty-four schools that do not have an instrumental program in grades seven
and eight.Thirteen schools applied for this funding and the committee was able to
choose some schools to support;
Biddulph,East Oxford and Northdale P.S.(Woodstock)will be receiving a class set of
wind instruments this year.North Nonwich is getting donated instruments from other
schools to complete a class set to augment their current inventory which was garnered
through fundraising.Through redistribution of current instruments,Aberdeen and Scott
Street P.S.will receive guitars;
The committee's goal is to try to bring more programming to all schools in the TVDSB.
Eight schools that applied remain on the waiting list for future funding.
Business Studies
Over 75 Business Studies teachers received in-servicing on the revised Business
curriculum and are now familiar with the changes in curriculum expectations,
assessment and evaluation of student performance in this subject area.Awriting team
of 14 teachers is now working on adapting existing curriculum to respond to the revised
expectations for InformationTechnology, Accounting, and Business Concepts courses;
Congratulations was extended to Lucas S.S.Business Students and teacher advisors
for their stellar results at their first Delta EpsilonChi Association tournament held at
McMaster University on 2006 November 22.DECA is an international organization which
provides students with hands-on experiences in the field of marketing,business and
entrepreneurship and emphasizes the development of leadership and communication
skills.Students work individually or in teams to prepare/present a business-related case
study and write a multiple choice test on their selected topic.Lucas S.S.is the first
school In the TVDSB to organize a DECA Chapter.
Co-operative Education
Several presentations for Co-operative Education teachers have been organized to
provide information about a variety of topics that Impact on the program.Teachers
recently heard from representatives from the Armed Forces and London Police
Department about their Co-operative Education placement procedures,and a full-day
workshop on Health &Safety and the Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program is planned
for December 14. On 2007 January 11,Co-operative Education and Work Internship
teachers,new to the program,will receive training on the policies and procedures for
experiential learning programs;
A Co-operative Education Mentorship program has also been Initiated which links
experienced Cooperative Education teachers with specific schools throughout the Board.
Co-operative Education teachers at these schools will be able to contact their Mentor to
have questions answered or receive program support.
2006 December 19...6
11.REPORTS FROM THE ADMINISTRATION -cont'd
e.DEPARTMENTAL UPDATES -cont'd
Program Services -cont'd
Guidance
The secondary Guidance counsellors are focussing on "solution-focused counselling"
this year.The group is studying a book entitled Solving School Problems;Solution
Focussed Strategies for Principals,Teachers and Counsellors.Unlike traditional
problem-solving;
models,which focus on deficits and the history of the problem,the solution-focussed
model emphasizes times when the problem does not occur.These exceptions provide
clues to potential solutions.A more future-oriented approach,developed in cooperation
with the student,is the ultimate goal;
Secondary schools are in the process of ensuring that the Guidance office at the school
equally reflects all post secondary destinations:apprenticeship,college,employment and
university.There is a large increase in the number of posters and the quantity of
information which feature apprenticeship and employment destinations;
The Pathway Planner has been distributed to all Grade 8 students in the board this year.
Grade 8 teachers received a package of literacy-related activities to complete with the
students before,during and after they use the planner.The use of the planner will
improve the understanding of post secondary occupations,destinations and the course
selection process;
The training on the revised Guidance curriculum In secondary schools was completed
in October.The sessions offered a wonderful opportunity for teachers of Learning
Strategies (GLS GLE)Career Education (GLC),Designing Your Future (GWL)and
Leadership and Peer Support (GPP)courses to share Ideas and expertise as well as
learn about the curriculum revisions.
-Health and Phvslcal Education
On 2006 November 16,Cindy Graham,Ontario Physical Health Education (Ophea)
Association,provided two Quality Daily Physical Activity (QDPA)inservices for
elementary teachers..The sessions were well received and filled to capacity at sixty
teachers each;
Forty schools signed up for Fun-Fit Demonstrations.QDPA teams have been going into
classes to provide activity ideas and resources.Teacher on Special Assignment (TOSA)
Tracey Robinson's focus has been to empower student leaders in the schools as well as
visiting staff and parent group meetings to present the importance of QDPA and its
Implementation;
The Effective HPE Teacher workshop was held for new physical education teachers in
2006 November conducted In partnership with Karen Button,System Staff Development.
The inservice included;components of an effective HPE program,assessment and
evaluation,lesson and unit planning,QDPA and behaviour strategies.November's
Secondary HPE Subject Association meeting focussed on secondary/elementary QDPA
partnership.Secondary teachers were shown how the program fits within the curriculum
and how to set-up and run a successful partnership.Four secondary schools have
already implemented the program and five new schools have signed on to receive
support materials.
2006 December 19...7
11.REPORTS FROM THE ADMINISTRATION - cont'd
e.DEPARTMENTAL UPDATES -cont'd
-Program Services -cont'd
-Technological Education
-November was a busy month for the Specialist High Sl^ills Major pilot (SHSM ).The
official launch took place at the Dewsbury Model Home,Reid's Heritage Homes.Guest
speakers Including Minister of Training,Colleges and Universities,Chris Bentley
welcoming the project.Meetings have been arranged with Fanshawe College and
University of Western Ontario to discuss the future benefits for our students.
Committees are being formed to create a contextualized unit for the program In
rriathematics and to develop a portfolio folder using the Ontario Skills Passport
documentation;
Awareness (certification)training has started in some programs around the Board.
Student tracking cards have been designed for students to use with their portfolios.This
awareness (certification)training will make our students more employable In their future
pathways as employers will see they have had appropriate training.It was noted that last
year 87.4%of technical credits attempted were completed successfully.
Board will be hosting the Elementary Volleyball Championships on 2006 December
09 at the following sites:
?a'ISx W®s*^'nster Secondary School-Site convener:Jaime Kayll Girls'AA -Vyhite Oaks Public School-Site convener:Phil Sanders
-Girls'A-Clarke Road Secondary School -Site convener:Bill Day
"^Banting Secondary School -Site convener:Mike DIouhyBoys^AA -Sir Wilfrid Laurier Secondary School -Site convener:Lennle Boyd
-Boys'AAA -Lucas Secondary School-Site convener;Chris Constantlne
The Boys and Girls Aand AA Champions and a "^vildcard"entry from each of the elqht
^lons^at make up the Elementary Sports'Council will advance to the Championship
Finals.This year 48 teams will participate in the Valley Finals.Approximately 120 bovs'
teams and 122 giris'teams competed to advance to the Finals.The round robin poolplaybeginsat9:00 a.m.with the top two teams advancing to the semi finals at 1*00 pm
The Final will start at approximately 2:00 p.m.The calibre of play Is exceptionally good
and we welcome attendance at this exciting event.
-Secondarv Athletics
The Thames Valley Regional Athletic Association fall sports seasons kicked off with a verv
successful week of Football at TD Waterhouse stadium in support of the United Wav.The
gan^s will raise about $45 000 for the United Way.The success was in part due to the
efforts of our convener Bob Gooder and all the TVRAA coaches;
The TVRAAFallSportSeasonsarenowcompleteandourstudentathletes have representedourschoolsandtheBoardInexemplaryfashion.Having qualified In the WOSSAA
Championship,fifty-one athletes along with eight teacher-coaches travelled to Thunder BayfortheOFSAACrossCountryRunningChampionshipwhereallourstudentsranverywell;
As well,West Elgin (A),Ingersoll (AA),Oakridge,South (AAA)and Saunders (AAAA)
participated in the various OFSAA Boys'Volleyball Championships.All four teams won
team underthe leadership of teacher-coachRobAtkinsonwonthegoldmedalforthefourthconsecutiveyear.This Is an accomplishment
that no other school In OFSAA history has attained;
2006 December 19..ft
11.REPORTS FROM THE ADMINISTRATION -cont'd
e.DEPARTMENTAL UPDATES -cont'd
Program Services-Secondary Atfiletics -cont'd
H°=key team,the Woodstock Collegiate Institute
qualified fofthe O^^^^East Elgin Secondary Sciiool Girls'Basketball Team alsoquaimeatormeOFSAAChampionshipsandrepresentedtheirschoolswell.
~Ontario Youth APDrentlceship Rfinnrt
wS s?ss;r sr"t2 rs
apprentrceship arid the skills tiiey are seeking in their employees.
T ®^from Job Connect to speak about their services for our studentsandaTrairangConsultantfromtheMinistryofTrainingCollegesandUniversitiestoexplain
r®n;:"!!Pre-Apprenticeship programs.Ttirj^So ®^e
rnm»Th employer panel was well received.It was suggested the employerscomeintotheirclassroomsasguestspeakers;
Snth London District Catholic had our
Beal SeSar^Schoof'w «ie Youth Employment Skills (YES)program at H.B.Tr?de ^T program is for students interested in the General MachinistTrade.We also have two female students who will be registering The students attend H
^^'"^^'^^^forthe morning and the"
retam to thefr hnmT=°h i f"^'*^a<=hinist Trade.The students thennpinl?ni^j ?schools for Grade 12.The Invitation Is extended to students parentsprncipalslearningsupervisors,learning coordinators,superintendents and eLcutlvesuperintendents.Our key note speaker for the evening will be Joel Van Bynen from the Ford
Company.Apprenticeship Committee Representatives have
nn fh^^training for three years.They spend four daysonthetrainingandthenthestudentstourthefacilitiesonthelastday;
OYAP is hosting a one day workshop on Health and Safety and?•Kr ^Education.Technology and Work Internship teachers.We haveOnSoTchiorBS^Jli^^^r ®Representatives from Ministry of Labour and^u Exchange will speak on Health and Safety Issues A
XidlfOT stude^s ?hp?p"T^information on the servicesprovideforstudents.There will also be a presentation on OYAP and the advantanps nfregistenngthestudentstoanapprenticeshipwhileinSecondarySchool.
information Technology
nf of the ongoing projects are coming to fruition The roll outofnewtelephonesinCECCentra)occurred 2006 December 4.This is the first InstallationofourriewVoIPsystemreducingthenumberofphonelinescomingintothebuildinafrom
rZrWh'ile1her:w°"',H°'route'd'^er ou^wl^Are"^f expected growing pains with a new system generally the
sequences!everyone becomes familiar with new button pushes and code
Ichools w«l be rnmniJlL^?h®'project Is on time and on schedule.Ninetykth»fnrhi-n ^ear leaving approximately 45 to do next year.This re-buildeconomTeSs°,^e"Sg;;ut"?h:ryst^f '^^^e efHciencies and
2006 December 19...9
11.REPORTS FROM THE ADMINISTRATION -cont'd
e.DEPARTMENTAL UPDATES -cont'd
Program Services - ITS -cont'd
Tine IPPS conversion is going well although a little behind schedule.We willnot be switching
to this new system In January but will proceed in the spring of 2007.This system is essential
to our corporate functioning and we need to be 100%sure of it before going live;
The Data Warehouse project Is continuing.Data loading is on schedule and a new version
of the application is being tested.This application is also important to the system as it will
give users throughout the system,including teachers up to date data on the academic
achievement of their students,thus allowing ongoing improvement to and specification of
program.We are looking forward to the go live date for this application;
Recently the IT department went through a goal setting exercise to define future emphases
and directions looking at both corporate and academic sides of the department.Some of the
high priority items were a bit surprising.Everyone was concerned about the need for a
mechanism to allow employees to attach their personal computers to school networks.This
is especially important for teachers who do their planning and lesson development on a
laptop.This area has been investigated in the past but it has always been elusive being a
complicated and very expensive process.Investigating continues in this area;
Our cell phone RFP is in the works with the evaluation of bids in the new year and
implementation in the summer.
Student Pathwavs for Success
The Student Success Action Plan was submitted to the Ministry of Education on 2006
October 31 by the Student Success Leader,Marie Chambers (Learning Supervisor,Student
Pathways for Success).The Board has received $1 655 885 for the Student Success
Initiative for 2006-07.The Student Success Action Plan has a focus on students at risk.
Grades 7-12.The areas of focus In the Action Plan are listed below,as well as three key
activities in each area:
Improving Literacv Achievement (in collaboration with the Languages portfolio)
Boards are expected to provide professional development for teachers in the explicit
teaching of reading,writing, oral communication and media literacy strategies,
differentiated instruction,and higher level thinking skills through cross-currlcular practice.
Professional development sessions on Strategic Reading and Strategic Writing will
be held for Grade 7, 8 and 9 teachers as a continuation and follow-up to sessions
started last year;
A Literacy Action Research Task Force is investigating the further use of DRA in
Grades 7-10,and will compare to another diagnostic tool used in other boards
(CASl);
The pilot project and research project involving the remedial software program
SuccessMakerhas been extended and expanded to additional elementary schools
with appropriate staff training included.
Imorovino Mathematical Literacv Achievement (in collaboration with the Math portfolio)
Boards are expected to focus on revised math curriculum and provide professional
development for teachers In teaching conceptual understanding through mathematical
processes and in the effective use of manipulatlves and technologies;
Professional development sessions on Ministry math resources called TIPS4RM for
Grade 8 and Grade 10 teachers will be conducted with followup sessions provided once
teachers have tried the new strategies in their individual classrooms;
2006 December 19...10
11.REPORTS FROM THE ADMINISTRATION -cont'd
e.DEPARTMENTAL UPDATES -cont'd
Program Services -Student Pathways -cont'd
Math Learning Teams investigate and try various resources,technologies,and strategies
in their classrooms and share results w/ith other math teachers;
Understanding Math software has been expanded to additional secondary schools,and
teacher inservice has been provided.A new research project has been attached to the
use of the software in selected schools;
Implementino Effective Pathways (in coiiaboration with the Applied Studies portfolio)
Boards are expected to help students make informed decisions for their post secondary
destinations,"reculture"schools and communities to re-emphasIze the importance and
value of the workplace destination,and offer specialized program pathways for students
at risk;
Grade 7 -9 Pathways to Destinations workshop involves the use of a new student
pathways planner and appropriate career planning activities involving professional
development and resources for Grade 7, 8 and 9 teachers;
The Worl<Internship Program has been expanded to 28 secondary schools,and includes
many more certification and experiential learning opportunities for students.Allocations
for funding for student transportation to the workplace and costs for certifications have
been given to all schools with Worl<Internship Programs;
Five Lighthouse Projects are continuing and/or have been expanded {CreditRecovery,
Reconnect to Your Future and Specialized Co-op, Work Internship Program,West Elgin
Rural School Project,Five Rural Schools Communications Project).Interim reports were
submitted on November 30 for these projects.In addition,a provincial pilot project for
a Specialist HighSkills Majorin Construction Isrunning at ABLucas Secondary School;
Implementing Communltv.Culture and Carina (in collaboration with the Special
Education,Safe Schools,School and Community Services,and Attendance and Social
Work Services portfolios);
Boards are expected to have Student Success Teachers and Teams in place in all
secondary schools for direct student advocacy and mentoring to support students at risk;
to have interventions in place for students at risk; to have Grade 8-9 Transition Plans in
place;to build inclusive and engaging classroom environments that are conducive to
student learning;
Student Success Teachers are in every secondary school,are members of Student
Success Teams,and are responsible for tracking and monitoring students who are at
risk offailing one or more courses (priorityis Grade 9 students).Afunding allocation has
been given to each Student Success Team for building staff capacity and resources for
students at risk in the areas ofliteracy,numeracy,pathways,and community,culture and
caring.Several professional development sessions have been held f(Student Success
Teachers;
A Ministry training session In the fall was followed up with professional development
training for Grade 8 teachers and Student Success Teachers on Grade 8-9 Transitions;
Partnerships with community agencies help to support unique programs for students at
risk (e.g..Sir George Ross SS,Thames SS,Clarke Road SS).
Communications:Reachina Everv Student (in collaboration with Public Affairs &
Community Relations portfolio)
2006 December 19...11
11.REPORTS FROM THE ADMINISTRATION -cont'd
e.DEPARTMENTAL UPDATES -cont'd
Program Services -Student Pathways -cont'd
Boards are expected to build awareness of student success initiatives among internal
and external target groups;
A new series of Destinations -Get to Work,Work to Get posters has been distributed
to all schools,featuring Thames Valley DSB students at their co-op or work experience
placements.A series of Literacy posters is planned for the spring;
A new series of Student Pathways for Success brochures for parents are in draft form,
and will be reviewed by the District-wide Advisory Committee at their January meeting;
A new series of Ministryof Education flyers and brochures have been produced and are
in circulation featuring the new Ministry slogan Reach Every Student,and providing
information on the 6 Ways to Student Success in High School (Student Success Teams,
Specialist High Skills Major,Lighthouse Projects,Expanded Co-op Credit.Dual Credit
Programs,Grade 8-9 Transition);
Use of Information/Data*(in collaboration with Research and Assessment and Information
Technology portfolios)
Boards are expected to have operating systems for data collection and analysis,and
interpretation that inform decision making to effect student achievement,and to submit
various data reports to the Ministry of Education.
Efforts are being made to include the 9 Key Indicators ofSuccess,as well as graduation
rates,as easy-access reports from the new Data Warehouse.
Data reports have been submitted to the Ministryon the 9 Key Indicators ofSuccess,as
well as three Lighthouse Projects {Credit Recovery,Work Internship,Reconnect to Your
Future).
Data reports have been submitted to the Ministryon Grade 8-9 Transitions (e.g.,number
of students at risk in Grade 9;number of these who have been assigned a caring,adult
advocate).
*Please note that a presentation to trustees on various data from these reports is being
prepared for a future Board Meeting in the new year.Copies of the full Student Success
Action Plan are available from Marie Chambers,Learning Supervisor,Student Pathways for
Success.
Business Services
Facility Services and Maintenance Capital Projects updates included:Strathroy District
Collegiate Institute,Primary Class Size Additions,Portable classrooms accommodation.
School Renewal program at Laurler S.S.,Ingersoll D.C.I,and Adelaide -MacDonald P.S.;
Financial Services have substantially completed their audit of 2005-06 results.Financial
Services is preparing the audited financial statements for presentation to the Board in 2007
January.The 2006-07 Revised Estimates were filed with the Ministry of Education on 2006
November 30.Enrolment projections for 2007-08 and 2008-09 were filed with the Ministry
of Education on November 30;
2006 December 19...12
11.REPORTS FROM THE ADMINISTRATION -cont'd
e.DEPARTMENTAL UPDATES -cont'd
Business Services -cont'd
Support Services update Included:
Purchasing Services av^arded a tender for learning materials and we are pleased to
announce the addition of several new catalogues to the "Web Store". On-line catalogues
are now available from Spectrum Educational Supplies,Exclusive Educational Products,
Brault &Bouthillier School Supplies,Palcik Educational Products,and Wintergreen
Learning Materials.Over the past month contracts have been awarded for appliances,
football helmets and inspections,custodial and maintenance equipment,two-way radios,
and learning materials;
Contractors have been pre-qualified for general,mechanical,electrical,masonry,
millwork,and painting for the Strathroy District Collegiate Institute addition;
The department renewed the following contracts for an additional year ending 2007
December 31,computer switches,cables and accessories,and data wiring;
Facility Services Operations Is currently involved with the steering committee for one of
the Ministryof Education Effectiveness and Efficiency Projects.The specific topic forthis
committee is the Green Cleaning issue related to cleaning chemicals and the Impact that
may result in student achievement and attendance.Facility Operations continuously
looks for options related to chemicals that are both environmentally friendly and Green
Seal certified.This also applies to custodial paper products which are presently being
reviewed through a tender process;
Custodial staffing revisions are under way related to.impact from the Primary Class Size
initiative as well as Balanced School Day. Additional classroom spaces (portables)have
resulted in additional custodial needs in certain buildings.To stay within existing
compliment,redeployment of staff and supplies Is required;
Snow removal contractors were put to the test last week and considering the conditions,
all sites were cleared with minimal problems.Staff were also deployed as necessary to
ensure roof drains and catch basins were cleared;
As a result of several hardwood floor installation in the pastfewyears.Facility Operations
is looking at a more effective wood floor/sports floor care program to ensure the integrity
of the new floors Is maintained.With the increase in Community Use and tournament
activity,the increase wear and tear needs to be addressed with proper cleaning
techniques and resurfacing products.
Human Resource Services
All retired members participating in one of the retiree benefit plans have been notified of the
new rates effective 2007 January 01.Confirmation of enrollment will continue throughodt the
month;
Disability Management isworking with approximately 58 staff members in their return towork
programs as a result of non-occupational and occupational Illnesses and injuries;
For the month of 2007 December the activities of the Thames Valley District School Council
(TVDSC)included;
-TVDSC 2006-07 Executive Member elections held In 2006 November TVDSC meeting
officers as follows:
Chairperson -Brenda Hopkins
Vice-Chairperson -Arlene Morell
Secretary -Angle Menard
2006 December 19...13
11.REPORTS FROM THE ADMINISTRATION -cont'd
e.DEPARTMENTAL UPDATES -cont'd
Human Resource Services -TVDSC -cont'd
Members-at-Large:
East -Randy Gordon
South -Carolyn Walker,Deanna Guernsey
Central (Acting) -Sarah Ruttan,
Margaret McPherson,Carmine Angi,James Osborne
- Email correspondence from TVDSC was sent to over 500 Thames Valley School Council
contacts requesting input for the 2007 Ontario Budget Discussion with the Minister of
Finance,Greg Sorbara,to be held in London in December.Brenda Hopkins was invitedto
attend.
-Chairperson Hopkins brought greetings on behalf of the Council to the Board's inaugural
meeting on December 12 and attended the OPSBA Violence in Media Committee meeting
in Toronto;
-The Thames Valley Secondary Networkmet on 2006 November 29.Guest,Marie Chambers
-Student Success Leader,gave an informative presentation on "6 Ways to Student Success
in High School".The many exciting secondary student success opportunities delivered in
TVDSB Secondary Schools "Reach Every Studenf program were highlighted;
-The TVDSC workshop "Back to Basics"was well attended with 95%being new school
council members or chairpersons.Topics included:the Ministry of Education Regulations
governing school councils, the mandate ofschool councils, the Importance of by-lawsand
howby-laws set the frameworkthat support parent involvement,school councilactions,"Year
at a Glance",topics of discussion,use of sub-committees,agenda setting and the Annual
School Council Report includingthe Use of Parent Involvement Funds.Chairperson Hopkins
and Vice-chairperson Morell responded to questions.Thisvery successful workshop has lead
to the planning for another one to address the need for developing school council members'
abilities;
-The TVDSC has posted on the TVDSB web site,the 31 pages of input that was collected
from school councils and forwarded to Minister Wynne re frequency of reports cards for
elementary schools;
- The planning forthe 4^^^Annual Provincial School Council Symposium being held on 2007
April 27 inToronto Is underway.The planning committee met at the end of November to
approve the invitation, work on a draft agenda and related topics;
-Elementary Occasional Teachers (OTE)1,603
Total includes OTE on Leave 72
and Retirees 419
Number of Long-term Occasional Assignments 250 (including 13 retirees)
- Staff are reviewing class sizes and additional professional assignments as a result of
changes negotiated in the collective agreement.The work completed by school
administration and their in-school staffing committees was noted;
- Additional occasional teachers hired this fall are being processed bringing the current number
to 805 occasional teachers on the supply list of which about 32%(265)are retirees.
2006 December 19...14
11.REPORTS FROM THE ADMINISTRATION -cont'd
e.DEPARTMENTAL UPDATES -cont'd
Operation Services -cont'd
Operation Services
-Superintendents have been actively involved In preparing for 2007 January 01 and February
01 assignment changes for Principals and Vice-Principals as well as addressing entry and
exit plans for their own changes of assignment,where relevant.Extensive work is occurring
among Superintendents who are reviewing and developing recommendations for submission
to the Policy Working Committee for updating,where necessary,of all Operations Services
memoranda,policies,procedures and Independent procedures;
- Dr. Barrie Bennett was in Thames Valley for four days In recent weeks working with staff in
support of the Instructional Intelligence Initiative;
-The initial projections for 2007-08 and 2008-09 were completed for submission to the Ministry
of Education.The projections are consistent with previous data submitted to the Board
showing the overall continuing decline in student enrolment;
A draft Independent procedure,"Pupil Accommodation and Facility Organization"has been
developed consistent with the recent release of the Ministry of Education on Pupil
Accommodation Review Guidelines.The development of a draft Generic Valuation
Framework Is under way which will eventually be Included the final draft of the "Pupil
Accommodation and Facility Organization"independent procedure.The current draft
document is being posted to the Board's website for public input;
As well, a new independent procedure.School Holding Zones being posted to the Board's
website Is taken directly from the existing Board policy/procedure.School Accommodation
and Facility Organization,with no changes In process proposed;
-The New Administrators met on 2006 December 07 at the Education Centre In London.The
topic for this session was Introduction to Human Resource Services with presentations by
Staffing Officers,on collective agreements and issues,information sessions on elementary
"Back to Basics"as well as Secondary Collective Agreements and Staffing issues.Supt.
Wagner,Havelka and Sereda discussed performance appraisals,progressive discipline,
Children's Aid Society protocols,and staffing.The information provided to participants
covered Human Resource items related to the multi-faceted process of staffing (secondary
and elementary),TVARRIS,leaves,health and safety,harassment,absence management,
collective agreements,performance appraisal,and balanced timetables.The next New
Administrators Session re Business Services Department will be held on 2007January 25;
-Research and Assessment Services staff undertook/completed major project components
during late 2006 November /early December as follows:
Phonological Awareness -developed,distributed school/system historical reports;
DRA -developing historical,school level report of Primary DRA;
Developed,conducted Data Use Workshop for Secondary Math Heads,teachers in
Clarke Road Family of Schools;
Consultation with school data use teams;
Continued modification of data collection material for 2006-07 Reconnect and
development of data collection form and process for Specialized Co-Op 2006-07;
Budget tracking of LOG expenses for 2006-07;
Analysis of Instructional Intelligence Needs Assessment surveys;completion of report;
Deaf and Hard of Hearing Review -finalize plan to conduct focus groups;
-Story Reformulation SK assessment -meeting with Early Years Literacy coaches;
modifications made to data collection form;
Refinement of Evaluation Plan for SuccessMaker pilot;
2006 December 19...15
11.REPORTS FROM THE ADMINISTRATION -cont'd
e.DEPARTMENTAL UPDATES -cont'd
Operation Services -Research and Assessment -cont'd
Summary of Grade 9 EQAO student and teacher questionnaire,results
completed/reports posted to Research and Assessment web site;
Completed initial phase of Elementary "VirtualStaffing"process for 2007-08;
Support for Student Data Collection process for EQAO grade 9 Math;
Worked on Skopus interface,ongoing Skopus data validation;
Data summary,report for school based Effective School Survey (III);
Processing,approval of external research requests;
Review of approval procedures for external research requests;
Supervision of student thesis on TVNELP program;
Participated in Regional MISA Research Workshop;
Analysis,report preparation of school-based assessment material (DRP and Level
Reading Assessments)to elementary and secondary school staff;
Updates to Research and Assessment web site including posting of new EQAO material
and reports;
Summary of indicator data for Ministry reporting completed;
Developed system level summary of data from the administration of Early Development
Instrument;
Provided enrolment statistics to assist in the preparation of revised board budget;
Analysis of relationship between local Literacy testing (DRP) and Provincial assessment
(OSSLT);
Processed approved applications for LOG -school-based initiatives;
Support for administration of Junior DRA and revisions to documents;
Developed worksheet for DRA Fall Primary Assessment -sent to schools;
Prepared data Integrity analysis of Primary DRA data;
Attended EQAO conference on Large-Scale Assessment:Supporting the Everyday Work
of Schools;
Validated design of DRA analysis component of Skopus data warehouse.
-Safe Schools initiatives Included;
The Committee to Reviewthe Environment ofSafety in Our Schools key action items
generated from the secondary,elementary and community facilitations provided the
foundation forthe development offour system recommendations on bullyingprevention
aligned with the Ministry document,"Shaping Safer Schools:A Bullying Prevention
Action Plan";
The Fourth R has revised their curriculum for the Grade 9 Healthy Active Living Course
including additional activities related to Critical Literacy as well as more Instructional
strategies with co-operative leaming.A new DVD on Skills for Effective Relationships
includes additional scenarios from both an Aboriginal and Multicultural perspective,
providing a variety of role play scenarios of relationship skillsfor conflict.Safe Schools
has providedtwo sets ofthe revised curriculum for Secondary School Health&Physical
Education Departments;
The Secondary Violence Prevention Committee met on December 13th to review
feedback from semester 1 initiatives,and plan for semester;
Drama troupes from seven secondary schools are providing presentations through the
2006-07.Semester 2 Initiatives Include plays,guest speakers,and conferences very
.positive feedback was received on all of the drama presentations from Grades 7-12.The
committee was very impressed with our newest script,"Hero in the Shadows"which
deals with issues of relationship violence and witnessing violence in the home;
2006 December 19...16
11.REPORTS FROM THE ADMINISTRATION -cont'd
e.DEPARTMENTAL UPDATES -cont'd
Operation Services -Research and Assessment -cont'd
Banting 88 will perform at the "International Conference on Children Exposed to
Domestic Violence"in 2007 May,hosted by The Centre for Children and Families in the
Justice System,The Centre for Research &Education on Violence Against Women &
Children,and The CAMH Centre for Prevention Science.
Director's Services
-B.Bryce,Director of Education,accompanied by Exec.Supt.Greene visited Davenport P.S.
and Annandale S.S.,met with staff,students and parents and toured both facilities.Director
Bryce accompanied Minister Bentley on his visit to Mountsfield P.S.recognizing it as a
"School on the Move",one of 25 elementary schools province -wide identified for its
outstanding academic achievements in literacy and numeracy.He also attended the Lome
Avenue P.S."Cooking with Kids"celebration and assisted staff in serving the students a
turkey dinner.
-The following meetings and events were attended by the Director;ETFO Thames Valley
Occasional Teachers'Local Charity Silent Auction,Ministry of Education Trustee Orientation
Session,London Police Services Seasonal Event,Strategic Leadership Symposium -
Multiple Perspectives and Collaboration in Strategic Leadership,London District Catholic
School Board Inaugural Meeting,Forum Theatre -Missed Opportunities,Neighbours,Friends
and Families Campaign to End Woman Abuse;
-The Director brought greetings and/or presented at the following events:United Way Football
Cheque Presentation Ceremony and Football Player Awards Ceremony and Thames Valley
District School Board Inaugural Meeting;
-Bus Operators*Association Representatives,Sutp.Greene and the Director met with Nancy
Naylor, Ministry of Education,to discuss the disconnect between the 2 percent funding
increase in the 2006 -2007 grants and the escalating fuel prices and the difficulties this is
creating for the bus owners;
-The Director attended the South Norwich Historical Society launch of their new book A Safe
Haven:The Story ofthe Black Settlers in Oxford County.The Historical Society is providing
all of the schools in Oxford County with a copy of this resource for their libraries;
-Staff Development initiatives included:New Teacher Program,New Teacher Winter
Conference,New Teacher Mentors,Specialized Instructional Coaching,Administrative
Mentoring,Instructional Coaching,Professional Reading Program,Leading Lesson
Study,Peer Coaching,Facilitating Effectively for Presenters and 2007 Leadership
Conference;
-Public Affairs and Community Relations update included:Education Week Committee plans
for 2007 April 30 - May 04,News from Across the Valley web site newsletter,LINKS, A
Report to Our Community;
PACR special events included:Launch of the Virtual Research on Call Project and
Mountsfield P.S."A School on the Move";
-Our Vision initiatives included Vision Advisory Committee meeting rescheduled for 2007
January 11,Vision facilitation with the Trustees,Student Trustee North joining Vision
Advisory Committee.
2006 December 19...17
12.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES
a.REPORT FROMTHE COMMITTEE TO REVIEWTHE ENVIRONMENT OF SAFETY IN OUR
SCHOOLS
B.Wagner,Superintendent of Education,presentedan overview ofthe work undertaken by the
Committee to.Revlew the Environment of Safety inour Schools (CRESS).
Supt.Wagner advised that the Administration is seeking approval from the Board for a setof
four recommendations generated fromthe secondary,elementary and community facilitation,
which have been aligned with the Ministry document, "Shaping Safer Schools: A Bullying
Prevention Action Plan"(2005 November).
Trustee Jaffe provided the background information relatedtothisviolence prevention initiative.
Following the tragicdeath ofa 15-year-old student at Strathroy District Collegiate Institute in
2004 November, the Director of Education made a commitment to complete a review of
Thames Valley's bullying prevention and Safe Schools programming.The reviewwas to
determine where the Board can buildon existing programs to meet the needs of students and
to be sure that everything is being done to address allforms and venues for bullying.
The reviewwas to be conducted bythe new"Committeeto Reviewthe EnvironmentofSafety
in Our Schools" (CRESS)with the mandate to determine why young people do not report
information regarding harassment,and to develop strategies that will help schools create a
culture that encourages students to speak out ifthey or someone they know heeds help.
Supt.Wagner introducedand thanked the members of the Committee In attendance.The
Committee was established in 2004 December consisting of the following TVDSB
representatives and community experts:
Chair:
Past Chair:
Staff Resource:
Dr.Steve Killip
Susan Dale
Deb Townsley
Rhonda Stlnson
Barry Wagner
Mike Sereda
Superintendent of Education
Executive Superintendent of Human Resources
TVDSB Representatives:
Trustee
School Administration
OSSTF
ETFO
Psychological Services
District School Council
Student:
Karen Dalton,Superintendent of Education
Manager,Research &Assessment
Learning Coordinator Safe Schools
TOSA Safe Schools
Project Coordinator Safe Schools
Dr.Peter Jaffe
Paul Tufts,Secondary Principal
Bob Jackson,Elementary Principal
Lynne Griffith-Jones,Elementary Principal
Dave Russell
Tony Stokes
Janice Sinker
Dr.Darlene Elliott-Faust
Brenda Hopkins
Kory Preston,Student Trustee
Shannon Ross,Student Trustee
Dan Moulton,Student Trustee
Jeff Koscik,Student Trustee
Katie North,Student Trustee
Communitv Experts:
CAMH Centre for Prevention Science
University of Western Ontario
Police Services
Middlesex-London Health Unit
Ray Hughes,National Education Coordinator
Dr. Alan Leschied,Professor and Psychologist
Doug Graham,GPP,Community Services
Dr.Graham Pollett,Medical Officer of Health
2006 December 19...18
12.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES
a.REPORT FROM THE COMMITTEE TO REVIEW THE ENVIRONMENT OF SAFETY IN OUR
SCHOOLS
The Committee held 21 meetings between 2005 January 2005 and 2006 November.Over the.
past two years,the CRESS has surveyed,coilected data,analyzed data,drawn conclusions
and made recommendations regarding the safety of students in our schools.The following is
the content of that review.The opinions expressed by all stakeholders (students,staff,school
administrators,parents and community partners)are consistent and carry a common message.
The mandate of this committee was to determine:
1.why youth do not report information regarding harassment (bullying);and
2.what school communities can do to create a culture that encourages youth to report
information regarding harassment (bullying).
Preventing bullying requires the cooperation among all partners in our school communities.
Itis our goal to create safe,respectful learning erivlronments for everyone.Action commenced
at the secondary level to allow the committee to start its work with all 30 school communities,
utilizing student leaders,parents and staff in each school.
In 2005 February,all TVDSB students in Grades 9-12 completed a Safe Schools survey
dealing with bullying and harassment.Each secondary school then followed a school level
process to develop a school based action plan. In 2006 February,ai!TVDSB students in
Grades 4-8 completed a similar Safe Schools survey dealing with bullying and harassment
followed by the school level process.
As part of the review of the environment of safety in our schools,parents,students and staff
participated in a multi-step process at each school to discuss and identify key results from the
Safe Schools Survey,identify specific school-based plans based on the survey and other
relevant information,and develop an implementation plan.
The school-based approach provided consistency across schools so that all school
communities were treated equally and had the same opportunity to offer input.The process
assisted schools in focusing on key issues and organizing the relevant information necessary
to develop an action plan.The templates created provided a format that assisted schools in
summarizing key information.The templates were also a tool for providing feedback to the
Committee to Review the Environment of Safety in Our Schools which assisted the Committee
in developing system recommendations.
Overview of School Level Process
Stage 1 -Survey Review Team
S.Dale,Learning Coordinator,Safe Schools,explained the background information related to
the three stages of the school level process.The purpose of this meeting was to discuss and
summarize student survey results and assess the school's position on the Safe Schools
Continuum.This team consisted of approximately 7 people (2 students,2 staff,2 parents,and
1 administrator).The team completed a Survey Review Template which summarized key
results.
Stage 2 -Action Plan Development Team
This session was lead by an outside facilitator who began with a brief presentation on bullying
awareness to ensure everyone had a similar level of understanding of the issue.Ms.Dale
explained as a group,using a brainstorming technique known as a "fishbone",the participants
were lead to generate key ideas for action of all stakeholders related to preventing bullying and
encouraging reports ofbullying incidents.This meeting involved approximately 20 people (8-12
students,4-6 staff,4-6 parents/community members and an administrator).A Summary
Fishbone with key action items was developed for use by the school team and forwarded to the
System Committee.
2006 December 19...19
12.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd
a.REPORT FROM THE COMMITTEE TO REVIEW THE ENVIRONMENT OF SAFETY IN OUR
SCHOOLS -cont'd
Stage 3 -Safe Schools Implementation Steering Committee
This Involved a Safe Schools team at individual schools consisting of 8>10 people representing
students,staff,parents and administrators.The purpose of this committee was to develop a
Safe Schools Action Plan based on the Information gathered from the student survey and
throughout the school level process.The Action Plan Identified steps to address up to 3 issues,
as well as the resources needed and the timeline for Implementation.AnAction Plan Template
was provided for the development of the school based Safe Schools Action Plan,and was
forwarded to the System Committee.
Reflection -Safe Schools Action Plan (Secondary)
Secondary schools have had the first opportunity to reflect on their Safe Schools action plan
to discuss what has been accomplished to date,what was still in the Implementation phase,
and to outline further system support that was needed.Schoolswere also asked to determine
observable success Intheir action plan.Elementary schools will followthis reflection process
In the spring of 2007.
Overview of Kev Action Ideas
As outlined above,during the school facilitated sessions (Stage 2),participants brainstormed
possible actions by key stakeholders In preventing bullying and encouraging reporting of
bullying Incidents. An overview of key Ideas was generated from the Secondary School
facilitations as well as the Elementary School facilitations.
In 2006 October,three communityfacilitations were held simultaneously In London, St.Thomas
and Woodstock.Awide range ofcommunity partners were invitedto participate as we shared
the results of the TVDSB Safe Schools Survey and the work schools have undertaken so far.
In addition, community partners and system staff had an opportunityto address the question,
"Identify ways communities and schools can work together to enhance theireffortsto prevent
bullying and encourage the reporting of Incidents".
Committee Recommendations
The key action ideas generated from the secondary,elementary and community facilitations
provided the foundationforthe development ofthe four system recommendations on bullying
prevention established byour committee.These recommendations have been aligned withthe
Ministry document, "Shaping Safer Schools: A Bullying Prevention Action Plan" (November
2005).
The Committee recommends;
1.That the Board develop a bullying prevention policy as part ofthe Safe Schools Policy
&Procedures and create guidelines for procedures to investigate Incidents of bullying,
as well as procedures to deal with barriers to reporting incidents of bullying.Includingthe
following:
a)each school to develop a mechanism that enables students and parents to report
anonymously incidents of bullying to teachers and school administrators;
b)each school to develop a Safe Schools Team,Including a lead person,to review
annually their Safe Sphools Action Plan In dealing with Safe Schools and bullying
prevention issues;and Safe Schools initiatives will be monitored on a regular basis
by Superintendents of Education.
2006 December 19...20
12.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd
a.REPORT FROM THE COMMITTEETO REVIEWTHE ENVIRONMENT OF SAFETY IN OUR
SCHOOLS -cont'd
RECOMMENDATIONS -cont'd
Rationale
A key action Itemfrom both the secondary and elementary school facilitations Indicated
the need for a clear bullying prevention policy to be developed at the board level.This
action Item Is consistent with the Ministry "Shaping Safer Schools:A Bullying Prevention
Action Plan"6ocumeni.This document provides the necessary Information and tools to
successfully Implement bullying prevention strategies for the education community.
The overarching recommendation from "Shaping Safer Schools"is: Bullying Prevention
should be identified as a priorityfor every school board and every school.Each school
board in the province should adopt a bullying prevention policy and,flowing from that
policy,each school In the province should,as a priority,Implement an effective bullying
prevention program.This confirms that consistent with "Shaping Safer Schools",our
students,parents and community Identified the same key action item.
The bullying prevention policy should Include a clear definition of bullying. Itis Important
that the procedures encourage the use of the positive term "reporting" to describe the
actions of those who come forward with Information on bullying,and to discontinue the
use of negative tenns such as "tattling" or "ratting".The procedures also need to
address the issue of protection from retaliation for those who report Incidents.
One of the mandates of CRESS was to determine why youth do not report information
regarding harassment (bullying).The number one reason Indicated by both our
elementary and secondary students In the system Safe Schools survey was that they did
not want to report,because they did not want to be known as a rat. Key Ideas generated
at elementary and secondary facilitated sessions strongly recommended the option of
anonyrhous reporting systems.This Is also consistent with the recommendations
outlined In "Shaping Safer Schools".We believe that schools should develop a
mechanism to enable students and parents to anonymously report Incidents of bullying
to school administrators and teachers.
L.Griffith-Jones,Principal,Ryerson P.S.,London,explained her school's action plan that
addresses safe environments through positive interaction with staff,students and
parents.
The bullying prevention policy should also be incorporated into the School Code of
Conduct,to encourage all members of the school community to report Incidents of
bullying. A successful and sustainable school bullying prevention program requires
participation from everyone In the school community.The collaborative participation by
students,staff,administrators and parents during the various stages of the Review
proved to be highlyeffective.We would like to see this school team under the direction
of an Identified school lead person continue to enhance and monitor the bullying
prevention workthat has been undertaken.Furthermore,Superintendents will assist with
the implementation of Safe School programs by reviewing progress during their regular
school visits.
2.That the Board will enhance awareness and educational opportunities for parents,staff
and students (including enhancing peer-led Initiatives)in bullying prevention
programming.
2006 December 19...21
12.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd
a.REPORT FROM THE COMMITTEE TO REVIEWTHE ENVIRONMENT OF SAFETY IN OUR
SCHOOLS -Recommendation 2 -cont'd
Rationale
Another common key action Item outlined at our elementary and secondary school
facilitations dealt with the issue of awareness and education on the topic of bullying
prevention for parents,staff and students.We are all aware that bullying takes place
both on and off school grounds,so it is important for staff,students and parents to be
able to understand how to identify potential bullying situations.Everyone needs to be
able to recognize and address the warning signs that could Indicate bullying.
As outlined in "Shaping Safer Schools",parents/caregivers education sessions could
cover topics such as identifying whether their child is involved in bullying,when and how
to intervene safely,and where to get help when they suspect a bullying situation.This
is exactly the type of information that was requested through our facilitated sessions.
Teachers and school staff are criticalin bullying prevention at school intheir day to day
interactions with students.Along with the administrators,teachers and staff at each
school need the skills to Identify,respond to,and prevent bullyingincidents. Recently,
all TVDSB Administrators participated in a full day OPC Bullying Prevention Workshop
{November 2006).
Eighty schools also brought a staff member along with their administrator to discuss
effective strategies.This was a great opportunity for schools to enhance the work with
their school-based Safe Schools Action Plan.It Is Intended that these training
opportunities for all school staff will continue in order to enhance their knowledge of
bullying prevention.
The focus of ther work in bullying prevention is for students.Student initiatives need to
focus on recognizing,responding to,and reporting bullying.Students need to be able
to recognize the different types of bullying.Bystanders must understand that spectators
can contribute to the bullying problem.They need to feel confident that they have the
skills and strategies to effectively Intervene in bullying situations in a safe,secure and
positive way.
Students must also be taught how to effectively and safely report incidents of bullying.
They need to know that reporting Incidents to teachers,staff, principals and parents is
a good thing to do.Students who bully others need to understand the impact of their
actions on others and need to be taught how to use their power In a positive way.
Students who are victimized need to know that what Is happening to them is
unacceptable and that there is help available.
Inaddition to awareness training,another component outlined as a key action item by
the elementary and secondary facilitation was to provide leadership opportunities forour
students.Student leaders can effectively Impact fellow students to make a difference,
when they are positive role models.Currently,there are a number of different Initiatives
that provide leadership opportunities for students.For example,secondary students are
trained to be peer facilitators to lead discussion to younger students following our various
Safe Schools dramatic presentations.These leadership opportunities for peer-led
initiatives at both the secondary and elementary level will continue.Eric Frank,a grade
12 student at Medway High School explained "Forum Theatre",a secondary school
violence prevention initiative.
2006 December 19...22
12.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd
a.REPORT FROM THE COMMITTEE TO REVIEWTHE ENVIRONMENT OF SAFETY IN OUR
SCHOOLS -Recommendation 3 -cont'd
3.That the Board will reassess the school climate with respect to bullying every three years.
Rationale
The process of surveying and analyzing the data from over 46,000 students InTVDSB
from Grades 4-12 has been a significant undertaking.This has provided us with a solid
baseline of Information frorri which to compare to in the future."Shaping Safer Schools"
has indicated that ongoing assessment helps determine whether programs are effective
at reducing bullying and improving the school climate,and whether they continue to be
effective for schools over time.
In the future,it may not be necessary to assess the entire school population,as a
sampling of perspectives might be sufficient.Students,staff,and parents within the
school community all have unique perspectives and information to share."Shaping Safer
Schools"lists focus groups,class discussions,parent and staff meetings,student and
school councils,and surveys as additional effective ways to access this Information.
4.That the Board will enhance community partnerships towards shaping Safer Schools.
Rationale
he three Community Facilitations,held as part of the process to gather information for
our Committee,proved to be a valuable experience for everyone involved.There was
a combination of both system personnel and community representatives around the table
at the facilitation.System personnel included Trustees,Superintendents,School
Administrators,Teachers,and Support Staff.We had an outstanding response from our
community partners which included representatives from our local police services,
municipal govemments,women's shelters,school bus operators,media and support
services,-to name a few.
The key question of the facilitation was to identify ways communities and schools could
work together to enhance their efforts to prevent bullying and encourage the reporting
of incidents.One of the key ideas suggested was to encourage further collaboration of
schools and community partners working together to present information sessions to the
public on the topic of bullying prevention.It was also noted that our community partners
in the media play a critical role in communicating this important information to the public.
This was also a common theme identified as a key action item from our elementary and
secondary facilitation sessions in recognizing how the media can help raise public
awareness of bullying as well as resources available.A video of media coverage by A
Channel of the Board's SAVE conference was viewed.
Supt.Wagner reviewed the elementary and secondary timelines associated with the
process as well as the key ideas generated from the secondary/elementary and
community facilitation that formed the foundation of the system recommendations on
bullying prevention.
RECOMMENDATIONS:
1.That the Board develop a bullying prevention policy as part of the Safe Schools Policy
&Procedures and create guidelines for procedures to investigate incidents of bullying,
as well as procedures to deal with barriers to reporting incidents of bullying,including the
following:
a)each school to develop a mechanism that enables students and parents to report
anonymously incidents of bullyingto teachers and school administrators
2006 December 19...23
12.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd
a.REPORT FROM THE COMMITTEE TO REVIEWTHE ENVIRONMENT OF SAFETY IN OUR
SCHOOLS -cont'd
Recommendations -cont'd
b)each school to develop a Safe Schools Team,includinga lead person, to review
annually their Safe Schools Action Plan in dealing with Safe Schools and bullying
prevention issues;and Safe Schools initiatives will be monitored on a regular basis
by Superintendents of Education.
2.That the Board enhance awareness and educational opportunities for parents,staff and
students (including enhancing peer-led initiatives) Inbullying prevention programming.
3.That the Board reassess the school climate with respect to bullying every three years.
4.That the Board enhance community partnerships towards shaping Safer Schools.
The recommendations were adopted on motion of T.Roberts,seconded by T.Grant.Chair Sattler
extended appreciation to CRESS for their continuing contribution towards the goal of creating an
environment of safety in Thames Valley schools.
b.REPORT OF THE POLICY WORKING COMMITTEE 2006 November 28
3:06 p.m.-4:54 p.m
MEMBERS ADMINISTRATION AND OTHERS
J.Bennett (Chair)T.Roberts B. Bryce B.Greene
G.Hart P.Sattler S.Christie J.Thorpe
P.Jaffe J.Roth
Visitors:R.Tisdale,B.Hopkins,A. Morrell
Regrets:D.Mugford
Trustee Visitors:J.Stewart (-4:15),S.Peters (3:42)
1.APPROVAL OF AGENDA -The agenda was approved.
2.CONFLICTS OF INTEREST-none declared
3.COMMITTEE REPORT OF 2006 OCTOBER 24 AND TRACKING SHEET-provided for
information
4.INTRODUCTION OF DRAFT POLICY/PROCEDURE
a. Pupil Accommodation and Facility Organization - Policy and Procedure and Independent
Procedure
Exec.Supt.J.Thorpe introduced the draft independent procedure on Pupil
Accommodation and Facility Organization and indicated itwill be necessary to withdraw
the Board's current policy and procedure on school accommodation.The Ministry of
Education has indicated that new guidelines must be in place by March 31,2007.Exec.
Supt.T+iorpe submitted a draft independent procedure and a policyand procedure for
consideration noting there were some areas yet to be completed once the Information
is received.It was necessary to submit a draft of the final document in order to seek
publicinput Insufficienttime forthe procedure to be Inplace bythe deadline.
2006 December 19...24
12.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd
b.REPORT OF THE POLICY WORKING COMMITTEE -cont'd
4.INTRODUCTION OF DRAFT POLICY/PROCEDURE -cont'd
a. Pupil Accommodation and Facility Organization - Policy and Procedure and Independent
Procedure -cont'd
It was suggested that orily community representatives be included as members of
Accommodation Study committees,and that representation from a community not
attending one of the schools Involved but having a direct interest in the outcome of the
study,be included.It was further suggested that the definition ofa school community be
defined and be as broad as possible to recognize both the urban and rural realities.
Exec.Supt.Thorpe described an Independent procedure on School Holding Zones which
had been separated out from the original School Accommodation procedure based on
the new Ministry of Education guidelines.He noted there is no change to the Board's
practice and recommended that the document be posted to the Board's website for 60
days for public input.
The categories of the Valuation framework were discussed and noted that they were part
of the Ministry of Education directive;however,boards may determine the weighting of
each of the four factors-student,school board,community and local economy.
The following motion was moved and carried:
That the Pupil Accommodation and Facility Organization independent procedure be
posted to the Board's website for 60 days.
That the School Holding Zone Independent procedure be posted to the Board's
website for 60 days.
A paragraph clarifying the areas yet to be completed will be included on the material
posted to the web.
5.CONSIDERATION OF POLICY/PROCEDURE FOLLOWING PUBLIC INPUT
a.Student Trustees on the Board
Director Bryce indicated that no input was received on proposed amendments to the
policy and procedure on Student Trustees on the Board.The following motion was
moved and carried:
That amendments to the Student Trustees on the Board policy be forwarded to the
December 19,2006,Board meeting for approval and the procedure for Information.
b.Student Advisory Council
He further noted that no input was received on the procedure on Student Advisory
Council proposed amendments.The following motion was moved and carried:
That amendments to the Student Advisory Council procedure be fon/varded to the
2006 December 19 Board meeting for information.
6.DRAFT POLICY/PROCEDURE REQUIRING FURTHER CONSIDERATION
a.Expense Reimbursements - Policy and Procedure
Director Bryce indicated the proposed changes to the procedure on Expense
Reimbursement are based on the provincial auditor's review of a sample of district
school boards.
2006 December 19...25
12.REPORTS OF COWIMITTEES -cont'd
b:REPORT OF THE POLICY WORKING COMMITTEE -cont'd
6.DRAFT POLICY/PROCEDURE REQUIRING FURTHER CONSIDERATION -cont'd
a. Expense Reimbursements -Policy and Procedure - cont'd
ExecutiveSuperintendent B.Greene describedthe proposed changes.He indicated that
trustees are eligible tobe paidmileageas determinedbythe Boardfor travel toand from
their residence to attend meetings ofthe Board. He described the provincial government
directive on travel, meals and hospitality expenses.Discussion surrounded
reimbursement ofalcoholic beverages and it was suggested that a survey ofboards be
undertaken for consideration at the December committee meeting.The followingmotion
was moved and carried:
Thatthe Administration survey area boards related totheir practices onthe purchase
of alcohol.
Itwas suggested and agreed that landtransportation costs also be reimbursed when air
or train travel is used.
7.SUGGESTED POLICY/PROCEDURE REVISIONS
a.Amendments to Policies,Procedures and Independent Procedures
Exec. Supt. Thorpe requested that, where changes are of sufficiently small substance
and do not affect the intent ofa policy,procedure or Independent procedure,the process
exempt the public input step.It was agreed that all documents would be presented to
the Committee fordecision regarding public input.The following motion was moved and
carried;
That the Policy Working Committee support the concept of allowing minor
amendments to polices,procedures and Independent procedures withoutthe public
input process where such amendments do not alter the Intent of the original
document.
He described housekeeping amendments to the following policies and procedures:
Response Protocol and Communication Plan for Portables -Procedure;
•Twinnlng/Detwinning of Schools - Policy and Procedure;
School Hours:Procedure for Changing -Independent Procedure;
Home Instruction - Policy and Procedure.
The following motion was moved and carried:
That amendments to the following policies be forwarded to the December 19,2006,
Board meeting for approval and the procedures for Information:
-Response Protocol and Communication Plan for Portables - Procedure;
-Twinnlng/Detwinning of Schools - Policy and Procedure;
-School Hours:Procedure for Changing -Independent Procedure;
-Home Instruction - Policy and Procedure.
2006 December 19...26
12.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd
b.REPORT OF THE POLICY WORKING COMMITTEE -cont'd
8.OTHER BUSINESS
a.Revised Policy Working Committee Mandate
The revised mandate of the Committee to be presented at the Noveniber 28 Board
meeting was distributed noting the Chair of the Information Committee of the Whole will
serve as Chair of the Policy Working Committee consistent with the November 14 Board
motion.The mandate was also amended to reflect the change in process regarding
public input per Item 7.a.
9.DATE AND TIME OF NEXT MEETING
The next meeting was scheduled for December 19 at 3:00 p.m.
10.ADJOURNMENT -The meeting adjourned at 4:54 p.m. by motion.
RECOMMENDATIONS:
1.That amendments to the Student Trustees on the Board policybe approved.
2.That amendments to the policies on Twinning/Detwinning of Schools and Home Instruction
be approved.
J.BENNETT,
Chairperson
The following motion was moved by T.Roberts and R.Tisdale and carried:
That the matter related to exempting the publicinput step when amendments include only
'housekeeping'items be referred back to the Policy Working Committee for further
consideration.
Aftera discussion the following motionwas moved byT. Roberts,seconded by R.Tisdale and
carried:
That amendments to the policies on Twinning/Detwinning of Schools(7.a.)be referred
back to the Policy Working Committee.
Recommendation 1 was adopted on motion of T.Roberts and R.Tisdale.
0.REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE -IN CAMERA 2006 December 05
MEMBERS PRESENT ADMINISTRATION AND OTHERS
J.Stewart (Chair)
J.Bennett
S.Doub
F.Exiey
T.Grant
G.Hart
M.Hendrick
P.Jaffe
S.Peters
S.Polhill
T.Roberts
P.Sattler
R.Tisdale
B.Bryce
M.Sereda
The Committee met In camera from 8:00 p.m. to 9:45 p.m.
K.Havelka
S.Christie
P.Thorup
2006 December 19...27
12.REPORTS OF COWIWIITTEES -cont'd
c.REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE - IN CAMERA -cont'd
1.APPROVAL OF AGENDA
The agenda was approved on motion of G. Hart.
2.CONFLICTS OF INTEREST
No conflicts of interest were declared.
3. A confidential personal matter was discussed.
4.RISE AND REPORT
A motion to rise and report was moved by P.Sattler at 9:45 p.m.and carried.
RECOMMENDATIONS:None
J.STEWART,
Chairperson
d.REPORT OF THE CHAIRS'COMMITTEE 2006 December 06
12:30-3:30 pm.
MEMBERS ADMINISTRATION AND OTHERS
J.Bennett P.Sattler (Chair) B. Bryce
G.Hart J.Stewart S.Christie
1.APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Item 8 a,"Auditor's Report"was added to the agenda and approved as amended.
2.CONFLICTS OF INTEREST -No conflicts of interest were declared.
3.REVIEW OF DECEMBER 12,2006,BOARD AGENDA
The agenda for the December 12 Inaugural Meeting was discussed and updated.
4.CORRESPONDENCE
A letter from R.Galloway regarding the draft capital plan is available in the Trustee
Conference Room for trustees'information.Director Bryce will respond to the letter.
The following correspondence will be added to the December 19 Board meeting under
"Communications":
Middlesex-London Health Unit -Report on Healthy Eating Champions Award;
Middlesex-London Health Unit -Turn off the Screens Week;
Middlesex-London Health Unit -Healthy Active School Award;
Canadian Parents for French (Ontario).
5.DRAFT CAPITAL PLAN OVERVIEW
A request to provide a capital planning overview including the draft Capital Plan, Primary
Class Size,Prohibitive to Repair,expenditure of capital reserves and French Immersion
initiatives to date has been received.Following discussion,it was agreed to schedule an
Information Committee of the Whole meeting for February 6,2007,to present the overview.
The report of the four Capital Planning Advisory sub-committees will be presented at the
2007 January 9 Board meeting Including the valuation framework responses.
2006 December 19...28
12.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd
d.REPORT OF THE CHAIRS'COMMITTEE -cont'd
5.DRAFT CAPITAL PLAN OVERVIEW -cont'd
Discussion surrounded scheduling a plenary session for the Capital Planning Advisory
Committee was discussed and it was agreed to meet following the February 6 Information
Committee ofthe Whole meeting. Itwas noted that itis necessary to update the membership
listand term of appointments.Alistof members will be prepared forthe December 19 Board
meeting.
6.DEPARTMENTAL OVERVIEWS
Director Bryce recommended bringing a general overview of each department's
responsibilities and operations to the regular Board meetings in January for trustees'
information.The following tentative schedule was considered:
Program -January 9 and 23 Board Meetings
Operations and Business -January 30 Information Committee of the Whole
Human Resources -February 13 Board Meeting
A tour of the Education Centre will be scheduled for December 19 after the In-camera
session.
7.BOARD ROOM SEATING
Trustee seating around the Board table for 2007 was determined.
8.OTHER BUSINESS
a.Auditor's Report
The provincial Auditor's Report was discussed.It was agreed that the Issues raised in
the report will be brought to the December 19 Board meeting.
9.DATE AND TIME OF NEXT MEETING
Next meetings were scheduled for December 13 and December 20 at 9:30 a.m.
ADJOURNMENT
The meeting adjourned at 3:30 p.m.
RECOMMENDATIONS:None
P.SATTLER,
Chairperson
0.REPORT OF THE CHAIRS'COMMITTEE 2006 December 13
9:40 a.m.-12:00 p.m.
MEMBERS ADMINISTRATION AND OTHERS
J.Bennett P.Sattler B.Bryce
G.Hart J.Stewart S.Christie
1.APPROVAL OF AGENDA
The agenda was amended to add Items 11 a, b, c and d.
2.CONFLICTS OF INTEREST -none declared
3.REVIEW OF 2006 DECEMBER 19 BOARD AGENDA
The agendas for the December 19 Board in-camera and public meetings were discussed and
updated.A tour of the Education Centre for trustees will follow the in-camera meeting.
2006 December 19...29
12.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd
e.REPORT OF THE CHAIRS'COMMITTEE-cont'd
4.CORRESPONDENCE
A letter to the Minister of Education from the Superior-Greenstone DSB regarding trustee
honoraria and a letter from the A Channel regarding the lack of media coverage of the trustee
election during the recent municipal elections are available in the Trustee Conference Room
for trustees'information.Chair Sattler will contact the A Channel directly to discuss the
election coverage matter.It was suggested that a letter be sent to the Minister of Municipal
Affairs requesting that a process be set in place for the timely release of election results.
5.REQUEST TO PRESENT
A request to present on behalf of the Oxford Technical Training Centre was considered and
approved for presentation at the 2007 January 09 Board meeting.
6.UPCOMING MP AND MPP MEETINGS
The MP meeting scheduled for January 19 and the MPP meetings scheduled for February
9 and April 20 were discussed.It was noted that few MPs are able to attend the January 19
meeting.Chair Sattler will investigate a date suitable for the MPs and report at the next
Chairs'Committee meeting.She will advise the MPs who have indicated they were able to
attend of the need to reschedule.Planning will continue for the scheduled MPP meetings.
7.CAPITAL PLAN -BOARD MOTION
Chair Sattler led a discussion around the 2006 September 12 Board motion approving the
Board proceeding to prepare a draft Capital Plan. It was suggested that the process be put
in place to conduct appropriate orientation for the newly-elected trustees,to develop guiding
principles and to initiate accommodation studies once the Board Pupil Accommodation policy
has been prepared.Next steps were identified including a plenary session for the Capital
Planning Advisory Committee scheduled to follow the 2007 February 06 Information
Committee of the Whole meeting.
8.BOARD WEBSITE -TRUSTEE PAGE LINK
Information to be included on the trustee page on the web was discussed.It was agreed to
include the list of schools for which each trustee is responsible as well as trustee profiles
which will be developed under a standard format.
9.BOARD COMMUNICATION STRATEGIES
It was suggested that the Board's communication strategies be enhanced by developing a
distribution list of Interested ratepayers which would be used to provide links to various
website resources.It was agreed to refer the suggestion to the Communications and Public
Relations Committee for consideration.
It was further suggested that a calendar of events be developed and posted to a trustee
portal on the Board's website for trustees'information.It was agreed that Chair Sattler will
investigate developing the calendar.
10.ELECTRONIC SCHEDULING FOR TRUSTEES
Chair Sattler requested a portable electronic scheduler for her use as Board Chair.It was
noted that her cell phone may be able to provide the services she is seeking.II was
suggested that a review of equipment available to trustees and the process of providing
information to trustees electronically be considered.
11.OTHER BUSINESS
a.Learning to 18
J.Bennett advised that the Learning to 18 legislation is to be introduced today and noted
the impact to students considered under the Supervised Alternative Learning for Excused
Pupils program.Director Bryce will investigate the matter and bring any implications to
the trustees at a future Board meeting.
2006 December 19...30
12.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd
e.REPORT OF THE CHAIRS'COMMITTEE -cont'd
11.OTHER BUSINESS -cont'd
b.School Bus Delays
The process to publicize school bus delays was discussed.Director Bryce indicated that
information is provided to key radio stations throughout the District and upgraded as
required.
c.TVDSB 10'*'Anniversary
Itwas suggested thatThames Valley recognizeits 10^anniversaryon2008January 01.
It was agreed that a notation should be put on the website and inserted on Board
letterhead for the year 2008.
d.Trustee Professional Development
Responsibility for meeting the newly-elected trustees'PD needs was discussed.It was
noted that the Our Vision supervisor is working with the PD Committee to plan trustee
in-service on the Our Vision initiative.
12.DATE AND TIME OF NEXT MEETING
The next meeting of the Committee was scheduled for December 20 at 9:30 a.m.Future
meetings were scheduled for 9:30 a.m.on:
-January 17;
-February 7, 21;
-March 7,21;
-April 4,18;
-May 2,16;
-June 6,20.
13.ADJOURNMENT
The meeting adjourned at 12:00 noon.
RECOMMENDATIONS:None
P.SATTLER,
Chairperson
In response to Item 7, "Capital Plan -Board Motion",Exec.Supt.Thorpe advised that it is the
view of the Board's solicitor that the four regional Capital Planning Advisory Sub-Committees,as
a whole,do meet the criteria of the Ministry of Education.It was determined that the four sub
committees will meet on 2007 February 06 following the Information Committee of the Whole
meeting.
f.REPORT OF THE TRUSTEE PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE
2006 November 28
12:00 p.m.-1:15 p.m.
MEMBERS ADMINISTRATION
S.Peters J.Stewart S.Pullam
T.Roberts G.Hart
1.APPROVAL OF AGENDA
The Agenda was amended and approved by motion.
2006 December 19...31
12.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd
f.REPORT OF THE TRUSTEE PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENTCOMMITTEE- cont'd
2.ATTAINMENT OF THE VISION
P.McKenzie,Supervisor,Attainment ofOur Vision and principal ofWestminsterSecondary
School attended the meeting to explore howthe trustees ofthe Board can be more actively
involved in the Vision process. Strategies were suggested tomove beyondtheannualreport
on the Vision to where trustees are able to identifytheir active participation in the Vision
process through a facilitation process connecting the trustee role to improving student
learning.
The intent of future in-service is to make the Attainment of Our Vision a process for trustees
rather than an event.
The following motion was moved and carried:
That the Attainment of Our Vision Committee be asked to draft a proposal for Vision in-
service to trustees to be brought back to the PD Committee for consideration for
implementation in the new year.
3.UPDATE ON PD BUDGET
A summary ofthe 2005-2006 PDopportunitieswas provided.Trustees made good use of
their P.D.funds to attend a wide variety of events.A one year subscription to OPSBA's
Education Today magazine was again providedtoeach school locationand some fundswere
providedtothe student trustees to assist indefraying some oftheirtravel costs as per Board
motions.
Surplus funds from the PD account were again brought forward as per Board motion to the
2006-2007 PD-New Trustee budget line to assist in defraying costs for new trustee
orientation.
4.NEW BUSINESS
There was some discussion regarding the kind of PD new trustees would benefit from.It was
suggested that there be some communication strategies put in place which would filter
through the committee regarding opportunities to participate in system wide staff
development.There was also discussion regarding the value of a common planning
calendar which could provide trustees with systecn wide PD activities.
5.NEXT MEETING
The next meeting was scheduled for Tuesday,2007 January 09, at 3:00 p.m. in the
Middlesex Room.
6.ADJOURNMENT -The meeting was adjourned at 1:15 pm..
RECOMMENDATION:
That the Attainment of Our Vision Committee be asked to draft a proposal for Vision in-service
to trustees to be brought back to the PD Committee for consideration for implementation in the
new year.
The recommendation was adopted on motion of J.Stewart and T.Roberts.
2006 December 19...32
12.REPORT OF COMMITTEES -cont'd
g.REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE - INCAMERA
2006 December 19
MEMBERS PRESENT
J.Stewart(Chair)
ADMINISTRATION AND OTHERS
S.Doub
F.Exiey
T.Grant
G.Hart
M.Hendrick
P.Jaffe
8.Peters
S.Polhlll
T.Roberts
P.Sattler
R.Tisdale
B.Bryce
B.Greene
C.Murphy
M.Sereda
J.Thorpe
K.Dalton
J.Empringham
K.Havelka
S.Hughes
L.Hutchinson
W.Tucker
B.Wagner
K.Wilkinson
S.Christie
C.Dennett
Regrets:J.Bennett
The Committee met in camera from 5:00 p.m.to 6:15 p.m.
1.APPROVAL OF AGENDA
The agenda was approved on motion of P. Jaffe.
2.CONFLICTS OF INTEREST -No conflicts of interest were declared.
3.Confidential property and personal matters were discussed.
4.RISE AND REPORT
A motion to rise and report was moved by S.Peters at 6:15 p.m.and carried.
RECOMMENDATION:
That the motions approved at the 2007 December 19 in-camera meeting related to a property
matter and a resignation by mutual consent be approved.
J.STEWART.
Chairperson
The recommendation was adopted on motion of J.Stewart and T.Roberts.
h.EDUCATION WEEK COMMITTEE
Trustee Roberts announced that the Education Week Committee has selected as its 2007 theme
"Achieving Together".Copies of the Education Week poster and system memorandum were
provided. He advised that the Committee has developed an exciting initiative to engage every
school and department across the District.
Trustee were requested to consider a submission of how they are achieving together a caring,
learning community.Trustee Roberts explained that the central part of our Garden of
Achievement is to be constructed in the main floor Atrium at the Education Centre and will
provide a visual focus of Education Week activities.
2006 December 19...33
13.COMMUNICATIONS
a.CHAIR'S SUMMARY UPDATE
Chair Sattler advised that she brought greetings on behalf of the Board to the London District
Catholic School Board's Inaugural meeting on 2006 December 11.She attended the first-ever
meeting of all publicand Catholic school board Chairs with the Ministerof Education on 2006
December 14.Copies of slides presented at the meeting byMPP Liz Sandals about updates to
the Grants for Student Needs funding formula have been circulated to Trustees.Chair Sattler
noted that only 19 school boards provided input on the funding formula of which TVDSB was
one.
She advised that the Minister has an awareness of special education funding pressures and the
need to Identify/validate Incidence rates without requiring massive administrative paperwork.
The Minister acknowledged that attaching special needs funding to enrolment does not make
sense.The Minister also announced that a Curriculum Council will be launched In January with
experts looking at environmental studies,gender studies,physical education,and elementary
curriculum.
On 2006 December 15,Chair Sattler attended a media event where Chris Bentley,MPP,Minister
of Training,Colleges and Universities,visited Mountsfield Public School to recognize it as one
of 23 elementary schools across the province whichhad achlevedoutstandlng academic
performance as a "School on the Move".Chair Sattler also joined Minister Bentley at Sir
Frederick Banting S.S.for the launch of the Virtual Researcher on Call project (VROC),a video
conferencing program that connects science classes with world-class university researchers.
The launch linked senior Banting students with a PhD student at the University of Toronto.
b. ONTARIO PUBLIC SCHOOL BOARDS'ASSOCIATION (OPSBA)
Trustee Hart advised that former Trustee Linda Stevenson attended the previous meeting of
OPSBA.The key areas of focus continue to be benchmarks (salary,benefits,utilities,
administration,etc.),transportation,special education,capital Issues and declining enrolment.
The process for the election of trustees and the need for accurate information about who is
elected and who is collecting this information was also discussed.
Trustee Hart advised that the registration deadline for the OPSBA Public Education Symposium
to be held 2007 February 1 to 3 Is 2006 December 20.Trustees interested in attending were
asked to contact the Trustees'Office.
c.STUDENT TRUSTEES'UPDATE
K.North,Student Trustee,advised that she attended her first meeting of the Education Week
Committee with Trustee Roberts and looks fonward to becoming more involved in the process.
She advised that the next Education Week Committee meeting Is to be held in 2007 February.
Student Trustee Jeff Koscik reported that two on-line Student Council meetings were conducted
and local school issues were discussed.
d.MIDDLESEX-LONDON HEALTH UNIT -REPORT ON HEALTHY EATING CHAMPIONS
AWARD
A letter was received from G.Pollett,MD,Secretary-Treasurer,Middlesex-London Board of
Health,enclosing a copy of Report No.145-06 regarding Healthy Eating Champions Award 2005-
2006,announcing the school award winners.
e.MIDDLESEX-LONDON HEALTH UNIT -TURN OFF THE SCREENS WEEK
A letter was received from G.Pollett,MD,Secretary-Treasurer,Middlesex-London Board of
Health,enclosing a copy of Report No.144-06 regarding Turn off the Screens Week Campaign:
2006 April 24-28.
2006 December 19...34
13.COMMUNICATIONS -cont'd
f.MIDDLESEX-LONDON HEALTH UNIT -HEALTHY ACTIVE SCHOOL AWARD
A letter was received from G. Pollett, MD,Secretary-Treasurer,Middlesex-London Board of
Health,enclosing a copy of Report No.143-06 regarding Healthy Active School Award 2006
announcing the school award winners.
g.APPOINTMENT TO SPECIAL EDUCATION ADVISORY COMMITTEE
A letter was received from Monica Hendrick,Chairperson,Chippewas of the Thames First Nation,
Board of Education,recommending that Gina McGahey be appointed the Native representative
on the Board's Special Education Advisory Committee.The following recommendation was
adopted on motion of T.Roberts and S.Doub:
And resolved that Gina McGahey be appointed the Native Representative on the Board's
Special Education Advisory Committee.
h.CANADIAN PARENTS FOR FRENCH (ONTARIO)
A letter was received from Monika Ferenczy,President,Canadian Parents for French (Ontario)
expressing student and parent concems regarding the French Immersion program at Parkside
Collegiate Institute,St.Thomas.
Exec.Supt.Thorpe explained that the program is new and Ifhiring Is to occur,itwill be done in
due process.Uncommon standards are different in the beginning of any new program because
of the level of understanding of students.He has spoken with the Principal at Parkside CI
regarding the proper venue for any discussions of this nature and advised that no further concern
has been raised.
14.NOTICE OF MOTION -none
15.MOTION -NOTICE OF WHICH HAS BEEN GIVEN
The following motion was moved by P.Jaffe,seconded by G. Hart and carried:
Whereas the Thames Valley District School Board has a close relationship with the London
Knights that is exemplified by our schools taking turns singing our national anthem before
games,having the Knights visit our schools as role models and having many Knights
registered as students in our secondary schools;
Whereas the TVDSB plays a leadership role in Ontario In regards to safe schools policies,
practices,programs and integrated curriculum;
Whereas physical violence between students is not condoned by TVDSB policies at any time or
place;
Whereas current Ontario Hockey League rules still allow junior players to fight and receive
penalties for this behavior in contrastto Olympic,university and high school hockey where players
who fight are suspended and/or banned;
Whereas the Commissioner of the OHL wants fighting to be eliminated but does not see this ban
as a priority;
Whereas allowing adolescents such as the Knightstofightwiththeir opponents In Junior Hockey
and even replay the fights on the scoreboard at centre ice at the John Labatt Centre clearly
condones violence as entertainment and offers mixed messages to young fans about violence
and sportsmanship;
Be it resolved that the TVDSB request that the OHL Commissioner take a leadership role InMajor
Junior A Hockey by banning fighting and that the TVDSB request support from the London
Knights organization in these efforts;
2006 December 19...35
15.MOTION -NOTICE OF WHICH HAS BEEN GIVEN -confd
And that the Thames Valley District School Board provide brief, written violence awareness
Information and a notice to parents and students about the likelihood of violence on the ice
before they attend Knights games withinthe Board's sponsorship program withthe Knights;
Andthat the Board ask Ontario Public School Boards'Association (OPSBA) and the Ontario
Student Trustees'Association (OSTA) to pass a similar resolution In regards to the
elimination of fighting InMajorJunior A Hockeyand the Ontario Hockey League.
16.ADDITIONAL ITEMS
17.QUESTIONS/COMMENTS BY MEMBERS -none
18 ADJOURNMENT
The meeting adjourned at 10:55 p.m.on motion of S.Polhlll and S.Peters.
CONFIRMED:
Chairperson
2006 December 19...36
SUMMARY OF APPROVED RECOMMENDATIONS OF 2006 DECEMBER 19
That the Board authorize Administration to begin the design for the new school in southeast SI
Thomas.
That the Board authorize the Administration to begin the design process for additions and
renovation projects at Algonquin and Hickson Central Public Schools.
That the grade 6 classes of French Immersion be moved from Wellington Street French
Immersion Public School to Homedale Public School effective 2007 September 01.
That the Board develop a bullying prevention policy as part of the Safe Schools Policy &
Procedures and create guidelines for procedures to Investigate incidents of bullying,as well as
procedures to deal with barriers to reporting Incidents of bullying,including the following:
a)each school to develop a mechanism that enables students and parents to report
anonymously Incidents of bullying toteachers and school administrators
b)each school to develop a Safe Schools Team,including a lead person,to review annually
their Safe Schools Action Plan in dealing with Safe Schools and bullying prevention Issues;
and Safe Schools initiatives will be monitored on a regular basis by Superintendents of
Education.
That the Board enhance awareness and educational opportunities for parents,staff and students
(including enhancing peer-led initiatives)In bullying prevention programming.
That the Board reassess the school climate with respect to bullying every three years.
That the Board enhance community partnerships towards shaping Safer Schools.
That amendments to the Student Trustees on the Board policy be approved.
That the matter related to exempting the public Input step when amendments include only
housekeeping-items be refen-ed back to the Policy Working Committee for further consideration.
That amendments to the policies on Twinning/Detwinning of Schools be referred back to the
PolicyWorking Committee.
That the Attainment of Our Vision Committee be asked to draft a proposal for Vision in-service to
trustees to be brought back to the PD Committee for consideration for implementation in the new
year..
That the motions approved at the 2007 December 19 in-camera meeting related to a property
matter and resignations by mutual consentbe approved.
^d resolved that Gina McGahey be appointed the Native Representative on the Board's Special
Education AdvisoryCommittee.
Whereas the Thames Valley District School Board has a close relationship with the London
Knights that is exemplified by our schools taking turns singing our national anthem before games
having the Knights visit our schools as role models and having many Knights registered as
students inour secondary schools;
Whereas the TVDSB plays a leadership role in Ontario In regards to safe schools policies
practices, programs and Integrated curriculum;
Whereas physical violence between students is not condoned by TVDSB policies at any time or
place;
2006 December 19...37
SUMMARY OF APPROVED RECOMMENDATIONS OF 2006 DECEMBER 19 -cont'd
Whereas current Ontario Hocl<ey League rules stillallowjuniorplayers to fightand receive
penaltiesforthisbehavior in contrastto Olympic,university and high schoolhockeywhere players
who fight are suspended and/or banned;
Whereas the Commissioner of the OHLwants fighting to be eliminatedbut does not see this ban
as a priority;
Whereas allowing adolescents suchas the Knights to fight with their opponents in Junior Hockey
and even replay the fights onthe scoreboard at centre iceat the John LabattCentre clearly
condones violenceas entertainmentand offersmixed messages toyoungfans about violence
and sportsmanship;
Be it resolved thatthe TVDSB request thatthe OHL Commissioner takea leadership role in Major
JuniorA Hockey by banning fighting and thatthe TVDSB requestsupport from the London
Knights organization In these efforts;
And thatthe Board provide brief,written violence awareness information anda notice to parents
andstudentsaboutthe likelihood of violence ontheice before they attend Knights games within
our sponsorship program withthe Knights;
And thatthe Board ask Ontario Public School Boards'association (OPSBA)andthe Ontario
StudentTrustees'Association (OSTA)to pass a similar resolution inregards tothe elimination of
fighting in Major Junior A Hockey and the OHL.
Thames Valley District Sciiool Board POLICY
Title STUDENT TRUSTEES ON THE Policy No.2010
BOARD
Department CHAIRS'COMMITTEE
Reference(s)-Procedure -Student Trustees on the Board Effective Date 2001 Nov 27
-Education Act
It is the policy of the Board that up to two,non-voting student trustees,one representing the City of
London and one the counties of Elgin,Oxford and Middlesex,be elected to the Board to serve for a
term of one year.The inclusion of student trustee enables the perspective of students to be
considered in Board decisions and provides students with valuable learning experiences.
1.0 ELIGIBILITY
To be eligible for the role of student trustee,students must meet the following criteria:
1.1 Be entering and maintain a full-time Grade 11 or Grade 12 or equivalent program (taking at least
3.0 credits per semester or 6credits In a non-semestered program)ata secondary school within
the jurisdiction of the Board;
1.2 Have achieved in the current school year,a minimum overall average of 70%;
1.3 Have demonstrated an interest and prior involvement in school,extra-curricular and/or
community-based activities;
1.4 Be willing to commit the necessary time to attend meetings and perform the duties and
responsibilities ofa student representative;
1.5 Provide written confirmation of support and acknowledgement of the student trustee's
responsibilities from the parent/guardian for students under the age of 18;
1.6 Has not served as student trustee with the Thames Valley District School Board In the past;
1.7 The student representing the City of London must attend a secondary school within the City and
the student representing the counties of Elgin,Middlesex and Oxford must attend a school in
one ofthe counties and outside the City of London.
2.0 RESPONSIBILITIES
The responsibilities of the student trustee Include the following:
1.To regulariy attend Board meetings and the Committee of the Whole In camera sessions.
Student trustees are to be excused from discussions related to the "Personal"section of in-
camera agendas and those related to students and/or their parent/guardians;
2.To be knowledgeable about,and comply with Board Bylaws,Rules of Procedure and the
Trustee Code of Ethics;
3.To serve asa student liaison representative for the Board at various events;
Administered By CHAIRS'COMMITTEE Board Resolution No.11B5 (1)
Amendment Date(s)2004 Mar.23 Amendment Resolution No.IO.g.9
2005 Jan.25 12.C
2006 Dec.19 12.b.l
Page 38 of 39
V
2006 December 19...39
Student Trustees on the Board ,cont'd
4. To consult with and keep Student Councils informed about Board issues of interest and concern
to students;
5.To declare a conflict of interest in matters that have a direct pecuniary interest to the student or
members of the student's immediate family (e.g.father,mother,sister,brother);
6. To hold up to three Student Advisory Council meetings over the duration of the term of office.
3.0 TERM OF OFFICE
The term of office for student trustees shall be one year commencing August 1 to and concluding
July 31 of the following year.
4.0 TRAVEL
In all cases where student trustees travel outside the Thames Valleyjurisdiction in carrying out their
duties as student trustees and where they are under the age of 18,written parent/guardian consent
is required.
5.0 MENTORS
Each of the student trustees will be invited by the Chair of the Board to identify a Past Chair currently
on the Board who is willing to serve as a mentor during the student's term of office.They will be
assigned seating next to their mentors at the Board table.
6.0 DISQUALIFICATION
A student trustee may be disqualified by motion of the Board if he/she becomes ineligible during the
term,or is unable to or fails to fulfill the responsibilities of the position.The principals/designates of
the student trustees will monitor their eligibility and apprise the Chair of the Board should any
concerns arise during the students'term of office.
7.0 VACANCIES
In the event a vacancy arises prior to the expiration of the term of a student trustee,it will be filled
in accordance with the process outlined in the procedure "Student Trustees on the Board".
Page 39 of 39