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2/28/2006 - Regular Board Meeting^REVISED THAMES VALLEY DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD REGULAR BOARD MEETING,PUBLIC SESSION 2006 FEBRUARY 28,7:00 P.M. BOARD ROOM,EDUCATION CENTRE AGENDA V-verbal M -material 1.CALL TO ORDER V 2.O CANADA 3.SPECIAL MUSICAL PRESENTATION -none 4.APPROVAL OF AGENDA WI 5.OFFICIAL RECORD M 6.RECOGNITIONS-none 7.CONFLICTS OF INTEREST V 8.CHAIR'S ANNOUNCEMENTS V 9.DIRECTOR'S ANNOUNCEMENTS V 10.CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES a.Regular Board Meeting,2006 January 24 M 11.REPORTS FROM THE ADMINISTRATION a.Capital Plan Update M b.French Immersion -CEC East Update M (Material to be distributed at meeting) c.Education Centre Parking Expansion M 12.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES a.Special Education Advisory Committee,2006 January 10 M b.SEAC Chair's Summary,2006 February 13 M c.Committee of the Whole,2006 February 14 M d.Chairs'Committee,2006 February 22 M e.Committee of the Whole,In Camera,2006 February 28 V 2 13.MOTION-NOTICE OF WHICH HAS BEEN GIVEN -none 14.ADDITIONAL BUSINESS -none 15.COMMUNICATIONS a.Ontario Public School Boards'Association -Update V b.Student Trustees'Update V c.Appointment to Native Advisory Committee M d.Middlesex-London Health Unit -Pandemic Influenza Plan M e.Thames Valley Council of Home and School Associations M f.Greentec International M * g.Appointment to Native Advisory Committee M 16.NOTICE OF MOTION -none 17.QUESTIONS BY MEMBERS 18.GOOD NEWS ITEMS -"Did you know..." 19.ADJOURNMENT THAMES VALLEY DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD REGULAR MEETING,PUBLIC SESSION 2006 FEBRUARY 28 The Board met in regular session on 2006 February 28 in the Board Room at the Education Centre,meeting Inpublic session at 7:08 p.m.The following were in attendance: TRUSTEES J.Henry D.Anstead J.Hunter J.Bennett D.Mouiton A.Cartier S.Peters G. Hart,Chair T.Roberts ADMINISTRATION AND OTHERS B. Bryce L. Hutchinson B.Greene B.Tucker C.iVIurphy B.Wagner M.Sereda K.Wilkinson J.Thorpe K.Bushell J.Empringham Regrets:D. Mugford, P.Jaffe P.Battler J.Stewart L.Stevenson M.van Gaalen S.Christie C.Dennett G.Owens W.Scott 1.CALL TO ORDER. Chairperson of the Board Graham Hart called the meeting to order at 7:08 p.m. 2.12.O CANADA The meeting opened with the singing of 0'Canada. 4.APPROVAL OF AGENDA The revised agenda adding items 5, "Official Record"and 15.g.,"Native Advisory Committee Appolntmenr was approved on motion of J.Bennett,seconded by J.Stewart. 5.OFFICIAL RECORD S.Christie,Supervisor,Corporate Services,read the following notice into the minutes: "We regret to record the death of Steen Nielsen,a teacher at Southwold Public School,St. Thomas,on 2006 February 24." 6.RECOGNITIONS -none 7.CONFLICTS OF INTEREST -No conflicts of Interest were declared. 8.CHAIR'S ANNOUNCEMENTS Chair Hart advised that a response has been received from Minister Kennedy requesting clarification of the program structure at Tollgate,Wilton Grove and Valleyview Public Schools related to moving forward with single track French Immersion.Minister Kennedy advised that the Tollgate P.S.French Immersion Issue is outside of the Capital Plan process and may,therefore,be considered independently.The other French Immersion Issues involving London and St.Thomas-Elgin were deemed part of the Capital Plan process because of possible school closures being necessary. 9.DIRECTOR'S ANNOUNCEMENTS Director B. Bryce referred to a recent article published ina local newspaper related to a coterminous board's policyon student suspensions,specifically Special Education students.He advised that a number of trustees requested comparative data for Thames Valley. Supt.Tucker reported that statistics compiled from the 2005 October report Identifiedthat 7.9% of total suspensions were related to special needs students.He advised that further information is available to trustees upon request. 2006 February 28...2 .' 9.DIRECTOR'S ANNOUNCEMENTS -cont'd The Director advised that several TVDSB initiatives v\/ere highlighted in the most recent Ontario Public School Boards'Association (OPSBA)publication of "Education Today referencing Safe Schools initiatives,award-winning environmentalist Dr. David Suzui<i's recent presentation and the 4R pilot project. 10.CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES a.The minutes of the Regular Board Meeting,2006 January 24 were adopted on motion of P. Sattler,seconded by J.Stewart. Trustee Sattler referred to the Board motion In Item 13 of the 2006 January 24 meeting related to child poverty.She reported that there has been a positive consensus among trustees that the Board become involved in this issue by supporting an OPSBA provincial effort to address child poverty.The following motion was moved by P.Sattler and D.Anstead: Whereas there is a significant body of research showing that family socioeconomic status is the strongest single predictor of educational outcomes for children,and Whereas Campaign 2000,a cross-Canada coalition working to increase public awareness on the impact of child poverty.Includes a growing number of national and provincial educational organizations,Including the Canadian School Boards'Association,Canadian Teachers'Federation,the Nova Scotia School Boards Association,the ElementaryTeachers Federation of Ontario and the Ontario Secondary School Teachers'Federation. Be it resolved that the Thames Valley District School Board formally request that the Ontario Public.School Boards'Association become a partner organization in Campaign 2000.'> The motion was adopted on a poll vote as follows: YEAS:Anstead,Bennett,Cartier,Hart, Henry, Hunter,Peters,Roberts,Sattler, Stevenson,Stewart NAY:Nil ABSTENTIONS:none Student Trustee Moulton -yea Student Trustee van Gaalen -yea 11.REPORTS FROM THE ADMINISTRATION a.CAPITAL PLAN UPDATE Director Bryce introduced the presentation on the draft five-year Capital Plan to be submitted to the Ministry of Education. He extended appreciation to Executive Superintendents J.Thorpe and B.Greene,the Superintendents ofEducation, PlanningOfficerG.Owens and Manager K.Bushell for preparation of a comprehensive draft Plan. He advised that the Principals of the schools named within the report have been contacted and that copies of the draft Plan were also distributed to District MPs and MPPs. Executive Superintendent J. Thorpe advised that the preparation ofthe draft Plan has provento be one of the most important Board Initiatives since amalgamation and one that it has implications for Thames Valley schools and students reaching well Into the future. Preamble In 2005 September,the Board of Trustees authorized the establishment ofa steering committee to respond to the Ministry's planning initiative"Good Places to Learn - Renewing Ontario's Schools". Atthat time, the Board had already authorized and received preliminaryworkfrom the C.N.Watson and Associates firm addressing the pressing Issues of accommodation which the Board faces. 2006 February 28...3 r ^ V y 11.reports FROM THE ADMINISTRATION-cont'd a.CAPITAL PLAN UPDATE -cont'd Simultaneously,the Administration was responding to the practical implications of several government initiatives suchas Learning to 18,Primary ClassSize reduction,BestStartandthe requirements ofthe Ontario Disabilities ActasvjeW assuch pressing program priorities as regular physical activity,elementary Arts Education and secondary technology renewal designed to improve student performance and opportunity. Within the Capital Plan process, a further opportunity was created to allow for Board-wide planning ina comprehensive,thorough way with a consistentapproach to Ministry criteria and guidelines.It has also provided an opportunity forthe Board to address the specific Thames Valleypriority issues identified. Supt. Thorpe highlighted the importance of this exercise to the future of the Board, and the outstanding and unprecedented co-operative effortwhich it has both required and generated. As previously noted, not since amalgamation has there been such an Intense,concentrated periodof activity ona commonprojectand an opportunity forsuch a levelof collaboration among many individuals fromvarious parts of the organization inpursuit ofa single outcome. The specifics identified Included: A tremendous volume of detail work in support of student enrolment projections and the physical plant aspects ofthe submission completedto a veryhigh level byG. Owens, and K.Bushell and his staff; Program Services staff reviewed every school facility in providing recommendations and detailed data about proposed school standards and the current school facilities inventory; Finance Services staff worked extensively to provide supporting costing detail; All Supervisory Officers contributed toreviewingtheir specific areas and detailed work onthe final proposals and timing. Supt. Thorpe advised that the CapitalPlan submission represents the best thinkingand planning capabilities ofthe Administration givena comprehensive reviewofthe Board's present situation and informed best predictions for the future. He emphasized that it has occupied countless hours of effort and is highly significant in its possible future impact on the Thames Valley organization.Mostimportantly, it has the potential to positivelyaffect the educational experience and learning outcomes of all future Thames Valley students.Even for schools not specifically mentioned,there is the potential for improvement for every student through the more effective and efficient deployment of fixed or declining staff to support improving student learning. Following the 2006 February 28 presentation,the detail work will continue to completion as soon as possible.When finished, the template is to be submitted to the Ministry of Education for Ministerial review.Consistent with the Board's 2005 December 20 direction and following the Minister's response,a comprehensive process of public consultation and input on each specific proposal is required priorto Boardapproval ofthe final Plan. There Is no indicationofthe timing of the next stages as they are dependent on the Ministryfor next steps. Specific Issues There are significant and important differences between the Administration's recommendations and those of the 2005 December C.N.Watson report.The draft Capital Plan is based on the specific requirements of the "Good Places to Leam" document.It is broader in its scope and response tothe long-termplanning requirements ofthat document. This report goes beyondthe primary mandate ofthe Watson report which was accommodationof pupils. 2006 February 28...4 11.REPORTS FROM THE ADMINISTRATION -cont'd a.CAPITAL PLAN UPDATE -cont'd An attempt has been made to address Trustee and community response provided since 2005 December as the recommendations were fine-tuned.Nonetheless,the report could not have been completed without the extensive detail work of the C.N.Watson report as Its base.Its planning study areas and demographic data form the underpinnings of the Capital Plan submission.Most importantly, the same issues and variables Identified and addressed in the Watson report do exist for the Board and have to be addressed by this study as well. The realities of surplus space and declining enrolment,complicated by increased enrolment in specialized programs as well as population shifts in areas of growth and decline must be addressed by the Board.As of the completion of this presentation,these are the only recommendations currently provided.At the 2006 March 21 meeting,the Administration will be following up with a report seeking Board direction regarding possibilities for change which may proceed separately fromthe CapitalPlanapproval process.Trustees and the publicwere alerted to the fact that only these recommendations and not any previous Board or consultant report recommendations are operative at this time. Itis anticipated that there will be questions from the public about planning suggestions made in earlier reports not being addressed In the presentation.The C.N.Watson report was based on a 15-year forecast.This report,whilerequiring 10-year data for enrolment and school renewal, is a 5-year plan that prioritizes the most important and pressing planning and accommodation issues that confront the Thames Valley Board.Mr.Thorpe advised that only the most urgent planning issues are being highlighted and reminded school communities that this is a rolling Capital Plan that must be reopened,debated and adjusted with each passing year.It Is recognized as a healthy process which will allow ail communities to remain involved and to receive proper notice of any proposed long-term accommodation changes withinthe system. It was noted that the presentation does not focus on all of the detail behind each suggested change.It was also noted that the final submission to the Ministrywill exceed 500 pages.Supt. Thorpe stated that the Plan is grounded In thorough,detailed data as required by the Ministry process and supports each recommendation made. Bythe time publicconsultation begins on each proposal,assumed to be laterthis year following Ministerial response,the much-anticipated Ministry School Closure Guidelines will have been released for mandatory use.ItIs expected that the Guidelines will provide considerable advice on how public Input will be managed and include discussion templates.Anunderstanding exists thatcommunities will continue to be fully involved in the affairs of their schools as they should be. Supt. Thorpe stated that if asked specificallywhich school a particular student might attend should his/her school be closed,the appropriate answer would be "For any possible school closure,a boundary review Is to be undertaken and,in response to public input, recommendations made for changing designations to specific school catchment areas."Since these are draft recommendations,subject to Ministerial review,the Administration has not developed all the details and would not do so until advised by the Minister and directed by Trustees as to which possibilities could be formally considered to move to the next stage. It was noted that many factors at work inthe Board have been addressed and come together in the development ofthe Plan.Mr.Thorpe reiterated that this Is one ofthe most important planning documents to be undertaken addressing far more than bricks and mortar.Itis the establishment ofa blueprint for the future, one that will carry wellintothis new century,focused on meeting the fast changing needs of schools and delivering excellence to all school communities and to each student. .^2006 February28...5 f ) 11.REPORTS FROM THE ADMINISTRATION -cont'd a.CAPITAL PLAN UPDATE -cont'd Rationale The report provided rationale and outlined the majorfactors and criteria used in the 10 listed categories. The following summary was presented: By the 2012-2013 schoolyear,theBoard will haveexperienceda declinein total elementary and secondary student enrolmentofmore than 10,000 students or more than 13%from its peak in 1999. In the last three years,an average annual decline of more than 1,000 elementary pupils has been experienced.This fact alone could justifya minimumof nine fewer elementary schools using the funding formula figure for the provision of a full-time Principal; Vacant space within the system is nowmore than 15,000 pupil places,a continuous drain on operational budgets that cannot be addressed withoutthe support and implementation ofa long-term accommodation planning process; More accommodation is required for growing French Immersion enrolment which has increased by more than 32%since 1999 presenting existing school sites with urgent and pressing accommodation pressures; Despite the overall issue of declining enrolment,growth areas are occurring across the District which cleariy must be addressed in a reasonable way; There are schools inwhich improvements and enhancements are required in order to better address current program expectations In specified areas of the curriculum; There are schools requiring expansions of their ability to deliver appropriate programs in enhanced facilities to provide equitable access to specialized programs for all students across the system; Currently,there are 33 elementary schools with less than 200 pupils,many of which will face further decline In the future.With the larger elementary schools which currently offset,to a degree,the impact of small schools also declining,the Plan calls for reductions in overall numbers of elementary schools; There are 5 of the 29 secondary schools,excluding Annandale,with enrolment less than 500 students.With the larger secondary schools which currently offset to a degree the Impact of small schools also projected to decline significantly in the future,the Plan calls for reductions In overall numbers of secondary schools; There are aging buildings which range from prohibitive to repair to extremely costly to maintain,operate and/or repair; There are fixed or declining numbers of non-classroom teaching staff in many and varied support roles who could be more efficiently and effectivelydeployed infewer locations; New and greater demands and expectations for student success on objective measures of outcomes will require resources now dedicated to maintaining an extensive infrastructure; Very specific requirements related to Ministry of Education and Government of Ontario prioritiesare also addressed throughthis process,forexample,ODA,Best Start, community use of facilities and others; 2006 February 28...6 11.REPORTS FROM THE ADMINISTRATION -cont'd a.CAPITAL PLAN UPDATE -cont'd Anomalies exist in the current school organization and program delivery,some of which can, and should,be addressed through this process. The Board has a unique opportunity to step back and take a comprehensive,Board-wide view of its present realityinorder to inform and improve Itsfuture. The challenges are many but the opportunities are great. The possibility exists that this CapitalPlanning process could attract up to $320 000 000 in government funding providing a better educational future and improved student learning for every student. The specific recommendations for the four major areas of the Board were presented alphabetically starting withthe Elgin area schools.The sections were presented regionallyin order to Identifythe easiest and clearest way of describing initiativesand sharing informationwith Trustees and school communities. Aspecific year within the five years of the Plan was identified for each proposed new school, addition,program enhancement,conversion ofuse and consolidation/closure. Itwas noted that the ultimate timing for this ambitious plan is dependent on several stages being completed.In 2005-2006,the first of the five years,the actual Implementation schedule cannot be confirmed until the process has been followed and completed. The categories reviewed for each area included: New Schools; Additions to Existing Schools; Additions for Program,Renovations for Program; Conversions of Current Use; Consolidations/Closures. The charts provided showed thatthe proposalsforeach regionof Thames ValleyIncluded a very substantial number of new opportunities for schools designed to take the fullest possible advantage of the funding opportunities proposed by the provincial government.The Plan included new schools to serve growth areas across the District,major school additions to better serve the needs of the school communities,major program additions and renovations and some conversions of school use.The Plan also addresses the Issue of consolidations and closure which the Administration believes necessary in order to adjust the system to the enrolment realities being faced. ELGIN The St.Thomas area inparticular presented significantand unique challenges.Several,veryold school buildings that are very difficult and costly to maintain and bring up to current standards exist In there.For the whole Elgin Region,the Capital Plan recommended the following within the next five-year period: buildingof a new school in South East St.Thomas; building ofa replacement school for Elmdale P.S. whichwould also accommodate growth in that part of the city; building ofa replacement schoolforSouth Dorchester P.S., possiblyinBelmont,whichwould be a Junior Kindergarten to Grade 8 elementary school also accommodating some students from Westminster Central Public School (noted in the City of London schools section to follow) which would close; major addition built at Edward St. P.S.,in St. Thomas to accommodate students from Balaclava St.and Scott St.Public Schools,both of which would close; 2006 February 28...7 11.REPORTS FROM THE ADMINISTRATION -cont'd a. CAPITAL PLAN UPDATE - Elgin -cont'd Grade 7 and 8 students would return to their home schools where physically possible,and toother facilities where necessary, to allow fora basicJunior Kindergarten - Grade 8 model inSt.Thomas.Itwould also allow Homedale PS to be the single track French Immersion site for Elgin.Wellington Street PS,currently the Kindergarten-Grade 6 French Immersion site, would close; - Port Burwel!PS students reassigned,largelyto Straffordville PS where they currently attend for Grades 7 and 8,and Port Burwell PS would close; -West Elgin SS and West Elgin Senior PS operated as a Grade 7-12 school on a single campus,and West Elgin SS to receive enhancements to address its abilityto provide Visual Arts, Music and Dramatic Arts programs as well as Communication,Construction and Horticulture Technologies; Southwold PS to receive a new General Arts facility and a new,larger,gymnasium to support program delivery in those areas; East Elgin SS,Aylmer„and Parkside Cl,St.Thomas,to receive Science laboratory renovations and upgrading. CITY OF LONDON The Cityof London area faces virtuallyall of the factors which the whole Board does.I.e.areas of growth,small schools,anomalies of organization,increased demand for French Immersion and others.Specifically,the Plan recommended the followingfor City of London schools over the next five-year period: building of a new Junior Kindergarten-Grade 8 elementary school in the Stoney Creek area of northeast London; completion of the addition to Jack Chambers PS as previously authorized by the Board; major addition and enhancement to A.E.Duffield PS to accommodate pupils from its area and pupils resident withinthe M.B.McEachren PS boundary whose school would close; additions and enhancements at Arthur Stringer PS and Nicholas Wilson PS to accommodate pupils'resident within the Wilton Grove PS boundary.Wilton Grove PS converted to a Kindergarten-Grade 8,single-track,elementary French Immersion school relieving the pressure on Princess Anne F.l.school and accommodating French Immersion growth In the southeast part of the City of London; addition builton Kensal Parkelementary French Immersion school to accommodate growth in French Immersion enrolment; major addition at Northdale PS to accommodate its conversion to a Kindergarten-Grade 8, single-track,elementary,French Immersion school,replacing Huron Heights elementary F.l. school.Northdale PS to close as an English school and its pupils re-designated to the new Stoney Creek school and to Northridge PS where they currently attend for Grades 7 and 8. Northridge PS to receive a program addition to address its Junior/Senior Kindergarten area, providinga General Arts facility and a new, larger gymnasium.The new French Immersion location would better serve the resident population and F.l.students from the portion of Middlesex County north of the City of London; 2006 February 28...8 11.REPORTS FROM THE ADMINISTRATION -cont'd a. CAPITAL PLAN UPDATE - City of London -cont'd -Tecumseh PS in south London dosed as an eiementary school and used as an annex site to accommodate enrolment pressures at the adjacent South Secondary School.Tecumseh's boundaries amended to designate pupils to two or three,close-by,elementary schools; As a result of current and declining enrolment numbers,Baling,Brick Street,Manor and Highlandand Westminster Central Public Schools would close withpupils being redistributed to nearby schools. Proaram Additions and Renovations to occur as follows: Science laboratories and the Developmental Centre at Sir Frederick Banting SS; Developmental Classes at Oakridge SS updated; a General Arts facility and a new,larger gymnasium at Byron Southwood PS; General Arts facility and a new,larger gymnasium at Mountsfield PS. Program renovations would occur to Science laboratories at Lucas,Montcalm and Laurler Secondary Schools. MIDDLESEX Specifically,forthe whole MiddlesexRegion,the CapitalPlan recommended the following forthe next five-year period: construction of a new school on the current Lucan PS site replacing the current building's poor condition. Anew school built to accommodate Lucan pupils and BIddulph Central PS pupils intoa single Junior Kindergarten-Grade 8 elementary school.Biddulph PS to close; addition to Caradoc Central PS,partly to accommodate pupils re-designated from the Caradoc South PS closing as designated by the Ministry as Prohibitive to Repair; additions and program renovations and enhancements to both Medway High School and Strathroy DCI to accommodate enrolment and enhance program offering; addition to River Heights PS,Dorchester,to accommodate student growth in response to reconfiguration and Northdale Central PS tothe Junior Kindergarten-Grade 8 (JK-8)structure to accommodate pupilsfrom Leesboro Central PS whichwould close.Northdale Central PS to receive an addition and renovations to accommodate the new JK-8 configuration; conversion of Centennial Central PS to a single-track,English,elementary,JK-8 school with the French Immersion pupils to be reassigned largely to Northdale PS; McGillivray Central PS to close because of current enrolment numbers and declining enrolment,and pupils designated to the appropriate schools following public Input and a boundary review; Metcalfe Central PS to close with its pupils designated to the appropriate schools following public input and a boundary review. OXFORD Specifically,forthe whole Oxford Region,the CapitalPlan recommended following forthe next five-year period: construction of a new school on its current site to replace the Drumbo PS which is in very poor condition.The new school would accommodate the Drumbo pupils and pupils of Princeton Central PS which would close; I. ^.2006 February 28...9 ^.11.REPORTS FROM THE ADMINISTRATION -cont'd a.CAPITAL PLAN UPDATE -Oxford -cont'd f - addition and enhancements to Glendale DHS to accommodate Its current population and Grade 9 students presentlyattendingAnnandalewhich would become a Grade 7-8 school; - conversionofTollgatePS toa single-track,K-8,elementary,French Immersion school with Its English pupilsre-designated to attend Hickson Central,Innerkip Central,and Northdale Public Schools following publicinputand a boundary review. HicksonCentral PS to receive a General Arts facility and a new, larger gymnasium to accommodate resident and new pupils; conversion ofNorwichDHSto a JK-8 elementary school to accommodate the pupilsof North Norwich, Norwich and OttervillePublic School closures.Norwich DHS to close because of current and declining enrolment numbers withstudents designated tothe appropriate schools following public input and a boundary review; addition and enhancements to College Avenue SS,Woodstock,including Science laboratories.Developmental Centre,Dance and Dramatic Arts facilities,and new facilities to support the introductionof Healthand Personal Services,Hospitality and Tourism, as well as Horticulture technologies; A. J.Baker PS and Sweaburg PS closed because of current and declining enrolment numbers.Pupils designated largely to Thamesford and East Oxford Public Schools respectively following public Input and boundary reviews.Thamesford PS to receive a General Arts facility and a new gymnasium to accommodate resident and new pupils; Ingersoll DCI to receive a program renovation to its Science laboratories. CONCLUSION Supt.Thorpe thanked everyone who worked beyond the normal callto contribute to this massive undertaking.He stated that despite its complexity and far-reaching Implications and recommendations for substantial change,it is a good news report for the Board as it fully and comprehensively addresses allofthe challenges and opportunities facing the Board currentlyand in the near future. Information packages were distributed that included the four regional reports,a financial summary ofthe submission's request ofthe Ministry,a summary of proposed French Immersion accommodation and harmonization recommendations and summaries of elementary and secondary school enhancements.Supt.Thorpe noted that details of the draft Capital Plan continue to be finalized and entered into the Ministry template.The Administration responded to questions posed by Trustees. A question was asked about the student transportation costs related to the changes contained in the Capital Plan citing it as a major component of the proposal.It was reported that transportation was not detailed In the analysis from CN Watson and that it may be viabilitywithin the parameters of the current population being transported.It was noted that the Capital Plan contained no recommendations related to the Impact on transportation costs.Trustee Roberts emphasized that the cost of transportation and the length of time students are on school buses must become a major consideration. The following motion was moved byl P. Sattler,seconded by D.Anstead and carried: That the Board establish a Capital Planning Advisory Committee,in accordance with step two of the ten-step capital planning process as outlined In the government's 2005 February announcement on Good Places to Learn. 2006 February 28...10 11.REPORTS FROM THE ADMINISTRATION -cont'd a.CAPITAL PLAN UPDATE -cont'd Chair Hart extended appreciation to the Administration for a very comprehensive presentation noting that no decisions are to be made at this time.The proposal presented by the Administration,as the Board's draft five-year Capital Plan, is to be submitted to the Ministry of Education.It will then become the decision of iVlinister Kennedy as to what aspect of this draft plan will receive funding.Chart Hart reminded everyone that the presentation is part of the 10- step plan to move fon/i/ard. The meeting recessed at 8:45 p.m.on motion of L.Stevenson and D.Anstead and reconvened at 9:08 p.m. on motion of J.Stewart and S.Peters. b.FRENCH IMMERSION-CEC EAST UPDATE Supt.Thorpe provided information regarding Tollgate Central and Hicl<son Central Public Schools and adequately accommodating the French immersion program In the future.Operations Services was requested to prepare information for Trustees which addressed two possibilities for Tollgate Central Public School.The information was developed with data from Planning Services and Facility Services'modifications when necessary.The following options were presented. OPTION ONE Re-deslgnate Tollgate Central PS as a single-track,French Immersion,elementary school.The English stream students would be reassigned through publicinputand a boundary review.It was noted that the pupils from the Tollgate English program currently attend Hickson Central PS for Grades 7 and 8. For purposes of the analysis,It was assumed that all Tollgate English stream students would attend Hickson Central PS.It was also noted that a boundary review would not likely produce this result. OPTION TWO Move the French Immersion program to Hickson Central PS and operate it as a dual track school. Operate Tollgate Central PS as a single-track,English program.Junior Kindergartent to Grade 8 elementary school. IMPLICATIONS Program Delivery Option Twowould predetermine the Board's deliverymodel for elementary French immersion as mixed single and dual track.This decision has not been made by the Trustees and Is contrary to the current recommendation presented through the draft Capital Plan. School Size A review of the reports provided showed that Option One would produce projected enrolments In 2006-07 of 180.50 full-time equivalent (FTE)atToIlgate Central PS (French Immersion.)and 402.5 at Hickson Central PS.The French Immersion enrolment would continue to increase because of extensions by a grade-per-year to 270 In 2010-11.Option Two would produce projected enrolments In 2006-07 of 133.00 FTE at Tollgate and 450.00 at Hickson. Renovation Costs Option One would require enhancements to Hickson with an estimated cost of approximately $1 098 000.Option Two would require an addition and enhancements to Hickson with an estimated cost of $3 042 000. Transportation The charts provided indicated that the largest number of Tollgate Central French Immersion pupils reside in the Cityof Woodstock.Option One would be status quo. Option Two would require students to be transported significantlyfurther from their homes to Hickson. From the intersection of VanSittart and Devonshire in northwest Woodstock,the distance to Tollgate Central is 1.9 km.and to Hickson Central Is 12.1 km. 2006 February 28...11 11.REPORTS FROM THE ADMINISTRATION -cont'd b.FRENCH IMMERSION -CEC EAST UPDATE -cont'd Class Organization In the current year, there are split grade classes In the Tollgate Central English program as follows: JK/SK,Grades 2/3,4/5, 5/6. Only grade one has a stand-alone class of 21 pupils. For option one, the projected enrolment inan English-only Tollgate Central would suggest thatsuch split grades wouldhave to continue. For option two, the increase inthe Hickson Central enrolment would make split classes rare In the future. The following motion was moved byJ.Stewart,seconded by L.Stevenson and carried: That the Administration proceed with formal public consultation on the designation of Tollgate Central Public School as the French Immersion single track site in CEC East and the transfer of the English track students In Junior Kindergarten to Grade 6 to Hickson Central Public School for 2006 September. c.EDUCATION CENTRE PARKING EXPANSION B.Greene,Executive Superintendent,Business Services,presented a report in response to a Board request to investigate a possible parking lot expansion for the Education Centre. Supt.Greene explained that the Education Centre experiences parking shortages on a regular basis during business hours when the full complement of staff are on site and the Thames Room and/or the Sir Adam Beck auditorium are used for meetings,workshops,presentations etc.He advised that the Education Centre is a unique building, not only does it have a large compliment of assigned staff (approx.300), italso has the capacity to have in excess of 1,000 visitors to the building at any one time attending meetings or presentations.This factor makes it difficult to plan and maintain adequate parking. Facility Services staff reviewed the existing parking capacities and researched factors used to determine parking requirements for occupancy at the Education Centre.In developing this plan,staff used the following formulas In allocating parking spaces: OCCUPANCY FORMULA AREA/SIZE PARKING REQUIREMENTS office space one parking space per 20 square meters (corridors and large meeting rooms were not included in this calculation 5352 m^268 spaces fixed seating (Auditorium) one parking space per two fixed seats 500 seats 250 spaces non-fixed seating with tables (Thames Room) one parking space per two square meters 570 m^285 spaces TOTAL 802 spaces The Education Centre currently has 428 parking spaces (the parking lot was expanded by 72 spaces in 1999).Supt.Greene noted that Itmay be unreasonable and too costlyto construct an additional 388 parking spaces that the above noted formula generates.It would also eliminate a large portion of the existing playingfield to the north of the Education Centre. 2006 February 28...12 11.REPORTS FROM THE ADMINISTRATION -cont'd c.EDUCATION CENTRE PARKING EXPANSION -cont'd Review of tlie site has determined that there is potential of adding 91 spaces by utilizing the area of the existing tennis courts,the south end of the football field and also adding a row of parking along the east edge of the existing rear parking lot. It was noted that there would be additional costs for the tennis court area due to requirements for lighting,storm water management and curbs and gutters.It was also noted that either area can be developed independently and that the existing football fieldwould have to be reoriented or removed for the rear parking lot expansion proposal. Cost/Savings Rear parking lot expansion (36 spaces)$ 52 000 Tennis court area (55 spaces)$152 000 Total 91 spaces $204 000 At the Board meeting 2005 March 22,Trustees approved a transfer from "Other Capital Reserve Fund" in the amount of $285 000 to fund a facility renewal plan at the Education Centre.Trustees were advised that the plan included building components but did not include parking expansion.There is nooperating budget forparking expansion.The cost wouldhave to be funded from Capital Reserves or the 2005-06 contingency fund of $.6M. The following motion was moved by T.Roberts and L.Stevenson; That the Administration proceed with the establishment of an additional 91 parking spaces at a cost of $204 000 withthe funds to be taken from the contingency account. The following motion was moved by T.Roberts,seconded by L.Stevenson and carried: That the motion to establish an additional 91 parking spaces at a cost of $204 000 be referred to the 2006-07 Budget process. 12.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES a.REPORT OF THE SPECIAL EDUCATION ADVISORY COMMITTEE Members 2006 January 10 12:15 p.m.-3:00 p.m. D.Anstead,Trustee (+12:25)P.Glllis,Integration Actionfor Inclusion London Chapter L.Stevenson,Trustee A.Craig,Learning Disabilities Association -London D.Ensing,Association for Bright Children Region (Thames Valley)A. Loebus, London Down Syndrome Association J.Laderoute,Children's Aid Society of (+12:25) London &Middlesex B.Montminy,Madame Vanler Children's Services G.McGahey,Chippewas of the Thames C. DeKelver,Ontario Association for Families of First Nation Board of Education Children witli Communication Disorders A.Morse,Easter Seal Society B. Booking,Thames Valley Children's Centre S. Wilson, Community Living Education R.Tisdale,Thames Valley District School Council Committee M.Barbeau,VOICE M. Franklin,Epilepsy Support Centre 2006 February 28...13 Administration and Others B.Tucker,Superintendent of Education B. Noble, Learning Supervisor P. Cook,Elementary Principai J. VanBommel,Secondary Vice Principal C.Bourbonnais-IViacDonald,Elementary J.Parker,Secretarial Assistant Principal Regrets:B.Hoffman,P.Sattler Absent:R.Rowlands Guests:B. Bialik, S.Boddaert,M.Foss,K.Gough,G.Grondin,K.Heffeman,R.Teichrob,C. Stewart, C.Thammavongsa,C,Young 1.CALL TO ORDER The meeting convened at 12:15 p.m. in the London Room at the Education Centre. SuperintendentTucker acted as Chair for the beginning of the meeting pending the election of the 2006 Chair and Vice Chair. 2.ELECTION OF CHAIR SuperintendentTucker called for nominations forthe position ofChair.The position ofChair alternates annually between trustees and associations/community members withthis year's Chair being a representative from one of the associations.Four individuals were nominated for Chair and Ruth Tisdale was elected as SEAC Chair for 2006.The ballots were destroyed on a motion by A.Morse. 2.1 Election of Vice Chair Three trustee representatives were nominated forVice Chair and Linda Stevenson was elected as Vice Chair.The ballots were destroyed on a motion by B. Bialik. 3. CONFIRMATION OF AGENDA -The agenda was confirmed on a motion by J.Laderoute. 4.CONFLICTS OF INTEREST -No conflicts of interest were declared. 5.REPORT OF MEETING FROM DECEMBER 6,2005 The report of the meeting of 2005 December 06 was approved on motion by A. Morse. 6 .I.E.P.UPDATE B. Noble, Learning Supervisor introduced Kyle Heffeman and Greg Grondin, Learning Coordinators -Special Education who made a presentation on the lEP Engine and responded to questions from SEAC members. This presentation onthe lEP Engine highlighted changes in Ministry of Education philosophy, with regard to Individual Education Plans.These changes are detailed in the Ministry's Resource Guide, The Individual Education Plan (lEP),2004. The presentation focused on: Needs and Strengths,Health Support Services,Transition Plans and Modified and Alternative Programs.SEAC members were encouraged to call Kyle or Greg directly with specific questions.(Kyle Heffeman:452-2362,Greg Grondin:633-1662) 7.SPECIAL EDUCATION PLAN -STRATEGY/TIMELINE Superintendent Tucker advised that planning has begun for revising the Special Education Plan. Input for these revisions will be requested from the Special Education Learning Coordinators and SEAC so that the draft Plan can be presented to the Board in April for approval in May. L.Stevenson,P.Gillis and A. Morse volunteered to be included in the Special Education Plan review. 2006 February 28...14 12..REPORTS OF COWIWHTTEES -cont'd a.REPORT OF THE SPECIAL EDUCATION ADVISORY COMMITTEE -cont'd 7.SPECIAL EDUCATION PLAN -STRATEGY/TIMELINE -cont'd Discussion followed regarding the status of outstanding program reviews and the frequency ofprogram reviews.Information will be includedinthe Special Education Plan revisionsthat delineate which program reviews have been completed and timelines for those reviews that have not been completed. 8.GIFTED REVIEW Learning Coordinator Marilyn Foss,Itinerant Gifted teachers Susan Boddaert and Kelli Gough,and Psychologist Cathy Young joined the meeting to present the Gifted Program Review. M.Foss provided information on the process,research and preliminaryfindings. C.Young shared details on recommendations including the screening and identification process.B. Noble explained the model for programming for gifted students and described continuity planning at the secondary level. B. Noble confirmed that the change in requirements will be communicated to the system after input is received from Operations Counciland ExecutiveCouncil. B.Noble extended her appreciation to D.Ensing and R.Tisdale fortheir involvementon the Gifted Program Review Committee and thanks to the entire Gifted Review Committee for being part of the process. 9.SEAC UPDATES 9.1 Net New Needs B.Noble shared information on the numbers of students identified as new to the system and the financial impact on special education.B.Tucker will request an update from Finance with regard to actual expenditures. 9.2 Research Department Reports The SEAC Evaluation Committee is in the process of working on evaluating SEAC meetings. Evaluations will be reviewed on a monthly basis to see if trends are developing so that bythe April or MaySEACmeeting the expectations ofthe evaluation process can be determined. SEAC members were asked to continue to request clarification on concerns that they may have as they arise. SEAC meeting dates for the remainder of the 2005-06 school year were confirmed.B. Tucker clarified that since 10 regular meetings will take place an additional special meeting will not be necessary.February -June meetings are scheduled as follows: Date Time Location February 13,2006 5:00 p.m. London Room March 7,2006 11:45 a.m.London Room April 10,2006 5:00 p.m. London Room May2, 2006 11:45 a.m. LondonRoom June 6,2006 11:45 a.m.London Room 9.3 Information Sessions re;Planning Entry to School B.Tucker advised that an Information Session re:Planning Entry to School will take place on Friday,January 27.Alison Morse volunteered to be the TVDSB SEAC representative and will join B.Noble, R.Salazer and N.Bell. 2006 February 28...15 12.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd a.REPORT OF THE SPECIAL EDUCATION ADVISORY COMMITTEE -cont'd 10.COMMITTEE UPDATES 10.1 Communications Committee A. Morse reported that approximateiy 10 people attended the January 10 orientation session for new SEAC members.L.Stevenson requested an update on the activities of the Communications Committee.A. Morse explained that the role of the Communications Committee involves assisting the in development of parent and community information regarding special education programs and services,drafting communications on behalf of SEAC,assisting with the organizing of SEAC training activities and updating the SEAC Handbook.Discussion followed regarding ways to increase awareness among parents of the role of SEAC. 11.CORRESPONDENCE Special Education Newsletter -2005 December The December issue provides information on the review of the TVDSB Pervasive Development Disorder (PDD)Program. 12.FORUM:ASSOCIATION UPDATES S.Wilson advised SEAC of the seminar on transitions which will take place on January 18 from 7:00-9:00 p.m. at Community Living London.This seminar is being coordinated by staff from the Thames Valley District School Board,London District Catholic School Board and Community Living London. J.Laderoute provided information on the auction being presented by the Children's Aid Society of London and Middlesex which will take place Thursday,March 30 from 6:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. B. Booking gave details of the January 16 Thames Valley Children's Centre All Stars Day when approximately 200 of their clients have the opportunity to meet the celebrities from the Sports Celebrity Dinner and Auction. 13.FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Alternatives to Suspension -2006 February 13 B.Tucker will review the Alternatives to Suspension document and provide an assessment at the next meeting.The status of this committee will be determined following this assessment. Transitions -2006 February 13 Update re:Contingency Fund -2006 February 13 Transportation Safety Seats -Transportation Services -2006 March 07 Ad Hoc Committee:re:IPRC Waiver Partnerships for Excellence October Reports 14.ADJOURNMENT The meeting was adjourned at 3:00 p.m.on motion by A.Morse. R.TISDALE, Chairperson 2006 February 28...16 12.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd b.SPECIAL EDUCATION ADVISORY COMMITTEE CHAIR'S SUMMARY 2006 February 13 The following are highlights of the Special Education Advisory Committee meeting held on 2006 February 13.Afull report will be presented to the Board at the 2006 March 28 meeting. SPECIAL EDUCATION PLAN Superintendent Tucker reported that the Special Education Plan Review Sub-Committee had identified several sections of the Plan and Its appendices for examination.B.Booking,Thames Valley Children's Centre,offered clarification regarding the role of Community Care Access Centres (CCAC's)in providing services and volunteered to join the sub committee discussions. Preliminary staffing and/or program outlines will be brought forward for discussion at the 2006 March 07 SEAC meeting. TRANSITIONS Superintendent Tucker sought inputfrom SEAC regarding the types of supports and services required by students in transition.Current practices and new ideas were discussed.It was noted that the need for additional service appears to be greatest in the transition from secondary school to the community,indicating a need for proactive transition planning that involves the students as well as their parents to ensure that appropriate opportunities are offered.It was suggested that a tracking mechanism be considered to measure the success of programs designed to assist students who are moving out of the school system.The Re-Connect program which tracks students who go off-role was cited as a model. IPRC WAIVER -AD HOC COMMITTEE The establishment of an ad hoc committee to examine the practice of sending IPRC waivers to parents was discussed.Concern was expressed thatthe use ofthe waivers serves to disengage parents.Itwas suggested that a more positive approach is needed that would teach students to advocate for themselves and would encourage parents to be involved In Identification, Placement and Review Committee (IPRC)discussions concerning their children.It was determined that the Issue should be integrated into the review of the Special Education Plan as a matter of communication,rather than being examined separately by an ad hoc committee. PRELIMINARY STAFFING MEETING Superintendent Tucker explained that preliminary discussions to examine programs have begun although budget forecast guidelines have not been received.He noted an increase infinancial pressures such as student transportation and staff mileage resultingfrom increased inclusionary practices.It was further noted that some self-contained programs may be collapsed. R.TISDALE, SEAC Chair 2006 February 28...17 12.REPORTS OF COMWHTTEES-cont'd c.REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE 2006 February 14 7:30 p.m.-9:08 p.m. MEMBERS ADMINISTRATION AND OTHERS G.Hart,Chair D.Anstead J.Bennett A.Cartier J.Henry J.Hunter P.Jaffe D.Mouiton D.l\/lugford S.Peters P.Battler L.Stevenson J.Stewart M.van Gaalen B.Bryce B.Greene M.Sereda J.Thorpe D.Blair K.Dalton J.Empringham S.Hughes B.Tucker B.Wagner K.Wilkinson K.Bushell 8.Christie C.Dennett W.Scott Regrets:T.Roberts Chair Hart welcomed everyone to the meeting. 1.APPROVAL OF AGENDA The agenda was approved on motion of J.Stewart and carried. 2.CONFLICTS OF INTEREST -No conflicts of interest were declared. 3.CHAIRPERSON'S ANNOUNCEMENTS Chair Hart Indicated that he has not yet received a response to his letter to the Minister of Education regarding three proposed program changes. Responding to a question regarding the coterminous board's recent French Immersion announcement,J.Thorpe,Executive Superintendent,Operations,reported that,other than what was reported In the media,no further details are known related to their decision to move forward with two schools.He advised that Thames Valley has expressed concern about making any decisions until the Ministry releases the School Closure Guidelines.During a recent visitto Lord Dorchester Secondary School,Minister Kennedy referred to Good Schools initiatives that included program excellence,renovations to school facilities and changing the designation of schools from English to French Immersion.Chair Hart advised that at a recent OPSBA meeting in Toronto,Minister Kennedy commented that the new School Closure Guidelines are to be released in 2006 February. 4.DIRECTOR'S ANNOUNCEMENTS Director Bryce advised that preparations are moving forward for the Draft Capital Plan presentation scheduled for the regular Board meeting on 2006 February 28. He stated that the potential exists for a province-wide CUPE job action to occur In the near future.The local CUPE members have Indicated that they recognize that this action is directed against the provincial government not Thames Valley and that CUPE locals will be taking an individual approach in dealing with this Issue.In order to prepare for the possible walk-out,a letter has been sent to parents/guardians of high needs students apprising them of arrangements made to ensure their health and safety.Supt.Tucker advised that transportation will be cancelled the day of the strike for all students attending special education classes.The letter requested that parents not send their children to school but rather keep them at home or make alternate arrangements. 2006 February 28...18 12.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd c.REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE -cont'd 5.MONTHLY FINANCIAL REPORTING The month-end financial report as at 2005 December 31 was presented.The year-to-date activity as at 2005 December 31 was provided and Included a summary of revenues, expenditures by expenditure type and expenditures by area,and expenditure type. B.Greene,Executive Superintendent,Business Services,reported that, previously,enrolment figures appeared tohave Increased In boththe elementaryand secondary paneland thatthis trend continues to be monitored as the 2006 March count date approaches.He described various revenue and expenditure lines highlighting the miscellaneous and Interest Income ($100 000) accounts that have significantly increased. He advised that the Board's overall financial picture remains positive. 6.SUMMER SCHOOL 2005 J. Empringham,Superintendent of Education, reported on the 2005 Summer School. He introduced Caria Trembley, 2005 Summer School Principal, and a Lang Bus Line representative who were present to respond to trustee questions.Supt. Empringham explained that the 2005 Summer School program was held In 13 Board facilities.Many programs were relocated at the last minute to accommodate building maintenance and renovations being completed over the summer. For the first time since the 1998 amalgamation,line-run busing was implemented for the 2005 Summer School. The programs were delivered by97 teachers witha totalof668 new credits being earned by students in attendance. A total of 173 Grade 9 students successfully completedan "improvement credit"in Mathematics while 86 Grade 9 students successfully completedan "Improvement credif in English allowing themtoremaininsync with theirGrade 9 cohort. A total of 20 students successfully completed the OLC40 course in order to meet the literacy component for graduation. Reflections on Changes Made to Summer School 2005 Supt.Empringham advised that line-run busing was implemented In order to improve opportunities forcountystudents to access newcreditprograms,Intermediate creditsthat have had enrolments too small to allow them to be offered in the counties and senior improvement credits. Students in Tillsonburg,Strathroy,St. Thomas and Woodstockwere transported at a cost of $19,442.04 covered under the Transportation grant of $33 200 designated for summer programs. The Grades 7 and 8 application process was modified this year with all registrations In the format ofInformation/application sessions completed at the program locations during Mayand earlyJune. Thisapproachwasusedtobetterserve parentsandstudents with an opportunity to have their questions answered. The minimum mark of 40%for enrolment In an Improvement credit was established this year inorder to remove any ambiguityand to reflect reasonable expectations around the degree of improvement a student may obtain ina 55-hour, four-week course. Recommendations for Summer School 2006 The Implementation of a line run school bus from St. Thomas,Strathroy,Tillsonburg and Woodstock to pickup students at one centralizedpoint In each communityand deliverthem to the sites for "NewCredit"and "Improvement Credit"programs in London was a success In 2005.Therefore,ItIs recommended that this initiative continue In 2006.The grade 7,8,9 and 10 improvement program will continue to run In Tillsonburg and St.Thomas;however,there has not been sufficient support inWoodstock or Strathroy to run a program locally. .2006 February 28...19 c ^12.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES-cont'd c.REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE -cont'd 6.SUMMER SCHOOL 2005 -cont'd Itis recommended that the on-iineapplication process be expanded to includethe Grade 7/8 Literacy/Numeracy and highschool,"Here 1Come"programs. ItIsfurtherrecommended that the information/registration sessions forthe Grade 7/8 and "Here ICome"programs continue to be offered in locations throughout the Districtto facilitate easy access to the program. A mark of 40%in a course taken during the 2005-06 school year will continue to be the lowest mark accepted as entrance to an improvement credit program.Students with a final mark lower than 40%will be required to repeat the course as a "new credit".Students wishing to improve a mark ina course not taken duringthe 2005-06 school year will also be required to repeat the course as a new credit. The2006Summer School prograni will return tothe traditional locations with the "New Credif program at Oakridge S.S.,senior "Improvement Credit"program at Laurier S.S.and south Grade 7/8 program at White Oaks P.S.The High School "Here 1Come"program will be offered at Clarke Road S.S.,Lucas S.S.,Parkside C.l.and Westminster S.S. It was noted that the overall enrollment in the Summer School programs continues to decline and may require further review regarding the viabilityof the program in the future.A question- and-answer session followed. 7.BOUNDARY ADJUSTMENT -EAST OXFORD P.S.AND SOUTHSIDE P.S. J.Thorpe,Executive Superintendent,Operations,introduced a report that recommended ^adjusting and implementing a boundary modification for East Oxford and Southside Public Schools within the City of Woodstock.Appreciation was extended to G.Owens,Planning Officer,and Supt.Empringham for preparing the report. The original southern boundary between Southside P.S.and East Oxford P.S.ran through vacant land in the southern part of the City of Woodstock.Residential development was approved and growth began northof Athlone Avenue (Inwhat isthe East Oxford P.S.area)and south from Pembers Pass (In what is the Southside P.S.area).As a result,students have been accommodated at the two facilities. Development has proceeded both north and south over the past number of years until the two phases were connected resulting in the boundary cutting the developing community in half. There are currently 26 students in the East Oxford P.S.area that would be impacted by this move and itis likely that an additional portable will be required at Southside P.S.At meetings with each School Council,they indicated their support for the boundary adjustment. RECOMMENDATION: That the following boundary modification between East Oxford and Southside Public Schools be approved with Implementation for 2006 September. The boundary of Southside Public School be modified to Include the lands east of Mill Street and north of Highway 401,and west of the extension of the current eastern boundary of Southside Public School; Students currently attending East Oxford Public School be accommodated at Southside f Public School effective September 2006; and -Students currently in grades 6 and 7 wishing to remain at East Oxford Public School be permitted to do so withouttransportation." The recommendation was moved by J.Stewart and carried. 2006 February 28...20 12.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd c.REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE -cont'd 8.ATTENDANCE AREA FOR STUDENTS Supt.Thorpe presented a report following the Board's direction to review the use of the current policy and procedure on Attendance Areas for Students. He advised that in order to understand the current situation regarding student selection of secondary schools,it was necessary to review the history of the Board and predecessor boards which led to the establishment of this policy. It was noted at the outset that every school in Thames Valley accommodates some out-of-area students and there are many reasons for elementary and secondary students and their parents wishing to select a school other than their designated school. BACKGROUND Initially,In 1997,prior to amalgamation,it was obvious that not all secondary schools offered all programs and all course offerings authorized by Ministry curriculum guidelines and, therefore,not all students had ready access to some programs which they might have wished to pursue,in the establishment of this policy and procedure,the intention was to provide opportunities for students.Board-wide,to access schools other than their designated home schools for particular reasons and circumstances.This practice was common In the predecessor boards as well. For example,in more densely populated areas such as St. Thomas,Woodstock and London,where there was more than one secondary school readily accessible to students,It was past practice that students might attend schools other than their designated school in order to benefit from program offerings which they might wish to pursue and which were not necessarily available at their designated school. In addition,personal reasons frequently affect the school choice of students.For example, some students wishing to study German or Japanese may request,on the basis of this policy and procedure,to attend a school other than their designated school which might offer Spanish and/or Latin. As will be reviewed Ina scheduled update to the Board In 2006 March, some Thames Valley schools offer programs on a semestered basis and others offer a year long schedule.Some students in each catchment area select schools organized on the other delivery basis under this policy. Further,students frequently make application to Banting S.S.because they are actively Involved In swimmlng/diving programs that take place at the Aquatic Centre which Is located close to this school.Such students are eligible to do so under the attendance Areas for Students policy,provided that their application Is reviewed on an annual basis and noting that they are not eligible for transportation under the Board's policy. Every secondary school in Thames Valley has some out of area students who attend for a variety of reasons.The normal pattern has Grade 8 students choosing their Grade 9 schools and being accommodated,wherever possible,at whatever secondary school they choose. Some schools must limittheir Grade 9 enrolment because of their capacity to accommodate a fixed number of students,but generally students are accepted where ItIs possible to do so. The determination as to whether a school Is fullor not under this procedure Is not dependant on whether the school does or does not have portable classrooms.In fact, fullyhalf of the Board's secondary schools have portable classrooms to accommodate the resident population intheir catchment area. Supt.Thorpe noted that the Attendance Areas for Students policy and procedure has not been amended since amalgamation and has been In effect since 1998 January 01.The role of the Superintendent of Education Is extremely limited In the administration of the Attendance Areas for Students document. 2006 February 28...21 ('^12. REPORTS OF COMMITTEES - cont'd c.REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE -cont'd 8.ATTENDANCE AREA FOR STUDENTS -cont'd Generally,itis administered at the school level and there are protocolsamong secondary principals which allow these matters tobe addressed appropriately.When superintendents become involved, it is usually when requests must be declined and parents need to speak with someone beyond the school level to help them understand the reasons for such decisions.Mr.Thorpe Indicated,that inhis experience,refusal for students to attend on this basis are more frequently found inthe elementary panel than inthe secondary as there are few legitimate program differences among elementary schools. GLENGGE AREAS Specifically,as related tothe reviewofthe Glencoe and Strathroy areas based onthisschool year's information,there are 1,209 students that reside Inthe Strathroy catchment area of whom 1,136 attend Strathroy District Collegiate Institute (SDCI).The balance attend Banting, Central Elgin,London Central,Glencoe,Beal,Lucas,Medway,Montcalm,North Middlesex, Oakridge,Ross,Saunders and Thames Secondary Schools.There is a total of73 students in the Strathroy area who do not attend SDCI. Similarly,students in Glencoe,North Middlesex,Medway,Westminster and Saunders S.S. and "other"(being outside the boundaries of Thames Valley from Lambton-Kent District School Board)attend Strathroy DCI.Atotal of 91 out-of-area students attend Strathroy from five Thames Valley schools plus two students from the "other"areas.By grade level there are 20 in Grade 9,18 In Grade 10,18 in grade 11 and 35 In grade 12. (Supt.Thorpe noted thatthe number ofstudents in Grade 12 at SDCI this year from out-of- area is slightly higher than last year based on the necessity to take certain courses at the fifth year of high school in order to complete graduation requirements.In summary,for Strathroy DCI,excluding the two out-of-board students,there Isa net total of 16 students attending who would not be there Ifthis policy were not in effect. STRATHROY AREA There are 416 Thames Valley students who reside in the Glencoe District High School attendance area.Of those,348 attend Glencoe and the 68 attend Beal,Medway,Parkslde, Ross,Saunders,Strathroy,Thames,and West Elgin Secondary Schools. There are 410 Thames Valley students that reside In the North.Middlesex DHS attendance area of whom 347 attend North Middlesex.The balance of 63 attend Banting,London Central, Clarke Road, Beal, Lucas, Medway Ross and Strathroy Secondary Schools.Ofthe North Middlesex students who attend other schools,29 attend Medway and 20 attend Strathroy.Similarly,North Middlesex has three students from Strathroy and Medway areas attending that school as out of area students. SUMMARY Supt.Thorpe summarized that in his investigation,nothing supported the opinion that superintendents,and/or principals are encouraging students one way or the other as it relates to the ability under the Attendance Areas for Students policy and procedure to attend any particular schools.Parents and students make requests of the receiving Principal for a variety of reasons and they are addressed in consultation withthe sending Principal on an individual basis.Rarely, if ever,do superintendents become involved at the secondary level in addressing these matters.If they do, itis in attempting to respond positively to the request of the parent or student where warranted and possible,consistent with the spirit and intent [!of the Board policy.It Is not the Superintendent's role to assume the role of advocate for or against any particular school population. 2006 February 28...22 12.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd c.REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE -cont'd 8.ATTENDANCE AREA FOR STUDENTS -cont'd Supt.Thorpe concluded that findings Indicate that the Attendance Area for Students policy and procedure have served the Board well. Many hundreds of students annually attend schools other than their designated schools for good and valid reasons.The Senior Administration has very little involvement In these decisions as the procedures themselves tend to work very efficiently in the interest of supporting student choice consistent with the policy and procedure.If any decision was to be taken to amend this procedure in line with the wishes of those advocating specifically for Glencoe,it would not be feasible to close Strathroy District Collegiate to out-of-area students without negatively affecting many students who attend there who are not from the Glencoe area.Similarly, itwould take Board resolution and amendment of the procedure through the Policy Working Committee specifically to exclude Glencoe or any other secondary school catchment area from entitlement under this policy and procedure. He advised that it is the Administration's view that to limit student and parent choice in any given school catchment area would not be positively received by the students and their parents.Nonetheless,Board direction is necessary as to whether to pursue any amendment to the current policyand procedure and/or to address further any actions taken by School Operations Services in their use and implementation. The Administration responded to questions posed by Tmstees.Trustee Peters expressed concern that the Board may not always' be adhering to this policy and procedure.Supt. Thorpe responded that In recognition that not all schools serve all students equally,this policy was established and was intended to assist parents and students in choosing the schools most appropriate for them. The following motion was moved by P.Sattler and carried: That the Attendance Area for Students procedure be referred to the Policy Working Committee for review. Trustee Jaffe cautioned that changing the procedure to solve one particular school attendance concern may result in creating a host of obstacles for many other students. Trustee Anstead expressed concern that trustees may be interfering at the school level.It was agreed that trustees will bring suggestions to the Policy Working Committee regarding consistency in administering this procedure. 9.2006-07 SCHOOL YEAR CALENDARS Supt.Thorpe advised that the present 2006-07 school year calendars are based on the current Ministry regulation and authorized number of days.A report was presented to comply with Ministry regulations in the development,seeking approval of the 2006 -2007 School Year Calendars and initiating the request to the Minister for approval. The draft calendars presented were developed in consideration of the following priorities established in consultation with Operations Council: a.adherence to Ministry of Education guidelines for the 2006 -2007 school year (i.e.,194 school days,includingno more than four professional activity days between Labour Day and 2007 June 30): b. an opportunity for one,system-based professional activity day to address Program Services curriculum initiatives early in the school year;and c.maximizing transportation efficiencies. 2006 February 28...23 12.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd c.REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE -cont'd 9.2006-07 SCHOOL YEAR CALENDARS -cont'd Regulation 304ofthe Education Act setsthedates for the 2006 -2007 Christmas holiday as December25-January05 inclusive.ThedraftcalendarpostedontheBoard'swebsiteused these dates. Individuals and groupsresponded during the public input period between2006January 03 and 27.Consultation has occurred withthe London DistrictCatholic School Board and the French FirstLanguage Boardtomaximizetransportation efficiencies.The greatest savings are effectedbya commoncalendar within the Board and with the coterminousboards. The deadline for submission of the modified calendar to the District Office of the Ministry of Education is 2006 March 01. RECOMMENDATION: That the Board approve for referralto the Minister of Education the regular 2006 - 2007 Elementary School Year Calendar, the regular 2006 - 2007 Secondary School Year Calendar and the modified 2006 -2007 School Year Calendar for Sir George Ross Secondary School. The recommendation was moved by J.Stewart. 10.REPORT OF THE NATIVE ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETING 2006 January 10 3:10 p.m.-4:25 p.m. Members J. Henry,Trustee (Chair)S.Albert-Ninham,Chippewas of the J.Bennett,Trustee Thames A.Cartier,Trustee G.McGahey,Chippewas of the Thames Administration and Others J.Antone,Native Counsellor S.Miller,Attendance Counsellor N.Jones,Principal,Westminster Central B.Misl<iman,Principal,Thames S.S. P.S.C.Murphy,Exec.Supt.Program Services C.Graves,Learning Supervisor (+3:50)B.Tichenoff,Principal,A.E. Duffield P.S. V. Hopkins, Native Counsellor P. Tufts, Principal, H.B.Beal S.S. M.Hubert,Corporate Services D.Weeden,Vice-Principal,Saunders S.S. Guests:L.Stevenson Regrets:E.Good,T.Sillaby-Ramsey Absent:D.Cornelius,M. Elijah 1.CALL TO ORDER The meeting convened at 3:10 p.m.In the ElginRoom at the Education Centre. 2006 February 28...24 12.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd c.REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE -cont'd 10.REPORT OF THE NATIVE ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETING -cont'd 2.APPROVAL OF AGENDA "Ojibwa Language Program"was added for discussion.The agenda was approved on a motion by J.Bennett. 3.CONFLICTS OF INTEREST -No conflicts of interest were declared. 4.ELECTION OF CHAIR FOR 2006 Nominations for the position of Chair were called.J.Henry,Trustee,was acclaimed as Chair for 2006 and presided over the remainder of the meeting. Trustee Stevenson provided an update regarding the need for more language teachers in Ontario stating that a paper is being prepared for presentation to the Ministry of Education.It is expected that the report entitled OPBSA Position Paper on Second Lancuaae Leamino 2005 November 26.will be received by the Minister by spring of 2006.A response regarding actions to be taken Is anticipated. 5.CONFIRMATION OF VOTING MEMBERS -Trustees J.Henry,J.Bennett,A Cartier -O.K.T.Representatives -Chippewas of the Thames S. Albert-Nlnham, G.McGahey -Munsee-Delaware Nation 6.WELCOME AND INTRODUCTIONS Chair Henrywelcomed ailto the meeting and those present introduced themselves. 7.REPORT OF MEETING -2005 September 13 The report of the 2005 September 13 meeting was approved on a motion by G. McGahey. 8.NATIVE CULTURAL IMMERSION PROGRAM Copies of a draft proposal for a Native CulturalImmersion program were distributed. The proposed program,developed in response tothe results ofthe 2003 Student Survey, wouldprovidea culturally relevantmathand literacycurriculumforFirstNations students, establish a clearing house of resources developed to support the curriculum from a First Nations perspective,and provide professional development to familiarize teachers with the specific transition needs of First Nations students. After a lengthy discussion,G.McGahey moved the following motion: That an ad hoc committee be formed to discuss a Native Cultural Immersion program for First Nations students with support from the Thames Valley District School Board Program department to assist with the development of a math and literacy curriculum. The motionwas supported.The ad-hoc committeewould clarify the concepts outlinedinthe draft and develop a detailed and comprehensive proposal. 2006 February 28...25 12.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES-cont'd c.REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE -cont'd 10,REPORT OF THE NATIVE ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETING -cont'd 9.CULTURAL FUND Copies ofthe following 2005-2006 Cultural Fundbudget were distributed: Expenditure of Cultural Funds 2005 -2006 Budget Elementary Schools Allocations Duffield 24 students $550.00 McEachren 24 students $50.00 *Counsellor Travel $200.00 "General Counsellor P.D.$700.00 $2 000.00 Secondary Schools Saunders 67x46.84==$ 3 138.50 Thames 33 x 46.84 =1 545.50 Beal 44x46.84=2 060.50 Alternative 30 x 46.84 =1 504.50 (Chippewa) •Counsellor Travel 300 "General Counsellor P.D.Fund 750 $ 9 200.00 Additional Expenditures Native Studies/Native Languages Resources $500.00 Native Advisory Committee P.D.$300.00 Total $12 000.00 Guidelines for Expenditures The cultural fund should be used to provide cultural experiences for students which may include transportation costs. Only Language teachers who work directly with First Nations students from Chippewas of the Thames and OKT may access resource money from the fund. The fund is provided by the Department of Indian Affairs to allow Chippewa and Oneida First Nations students covered under the respective Native Tuition agreements,to participate incultural activities.The funds must be used prior to the 2006 March 31 fiscal year-end.Support is also provided for counsellor travel and professional development, Native studies.Native Language resources and Native Advisory Committee professional development.The budget was approved on a motion by J.Bennett. Schools were encouraged to submit their Cultural Fund requests early to ensure that the entire $12 000.00 allocation is utilized. An accounting of expenditures and balances- remaining will be provided at the 2006 February 14 meeting.Proposals will be sought from the schools to allocate any money remaining in the fund and a subcommittee,struck to examine the submissions,will determine where funds should be awarded. Suggestions forNativeAdvisory Committee professional development opportunities were requested.Ideas such as examiningprogram deliverymodels at other boards and inviting guest speakers were noted. 2006 February 28...26 12.REPORTS OF COM WIITTEES -cont'd c.REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE -cont'd 10.REPORT OF THE NATIVE ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETING -Cultural Fund -cont'd 10.PRINCIPALS'UPDATES Westminster Christmas events and concerts w/ere well received. Many sports activities are scheduled for the new year. The basketball program Is starting up. A reading goal-setting luncheon is planned in January. Beal A certified Native Language teacher will be interviewed on Thursday,2006 January 12. It is anticipated thatthe school will offer an Oneida Language course In the 2"^*semester. An open house will be held on Thursday,2006 January 19, for Incoming Grade 8 students. 1 semester examinations will begin in the last week of January. 2""semester begins on 2006 February 06. Thames During late November and early2005 December several Thames students were on work experience programs and received positive reports.A celebration is planned to honor their success. The Native Studies resources purchased from the 2004/05 Cultural Fund have been received and are displayed in the library alongside art work created by the First Nations students. The school will host "Skill Quest"on 2006 January 12 and 13.Eighty students from elementary schools will attend for hands-on sampling ofthe technical programs offered. An athletic planning day is scheduled in April for students who have registered at Thames. A student orientation day is planned in May. Saunders Grade 8 Parent Night is on Thursday,2006 January 12,at 7:00 p.m. Principal T.Jones has transferred to Banting S.S.The new Principal is D.Rajala. Vice-Principal J.Robertson has transferred to Arthur Voaden S.S.The new Vice- Principal is J.Pasierbek. Exams will run from Monday,2006 January 27, to Thursday,2006 February 02. Second semester starts on Monday,2006 February 06. Report cards will be distributed on Monday,2006 February 13. - The School Council meeting inonWednesday,2006February22, at 7:00 p.rh. The Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test (OSSLT)will be written on Wednesday, 2006 March 29 by all Grade 10 students and students who were previously not successful. 11.ADDITIONAL ITEMS Anapplicationforthe positionofOjibwa Language teacher has been received and Itwas noted that the candidate is fluent in the Ojibwa language.It was suggested that.Ifan interview is granted,the interview panel should include a Native language speaker and G.McGahey,Education Officer at the Chippewasofthe Thames First Nation Education Board. 12.ADJOURNMENT The next meeting will be held at Thames S.S. on Tuesday,2006 Febnjary 14, at 1:00 p.m. 2006 February 28...27 12.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd 0.REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE -cont'd 10.REPORT OF THE NATIVEADVISORYCOMMITTEEMEETING -Principal Updates -cont'd The meetingwas adjourned at 4:25 p.m. on a motion byA.Cartler. RECOMMENDATIONS:None J.HENRY, Chairperson Trustee Henry advisedthatC.Murphy,ExecutiveSuperintendent.ProgramServices,provided clarification at the 2006 February 14 meeting ofthe.NativeAdvisoryCommittee related tothe Ojibwa Languageteacher candidate (Item 11).Trustee Henry requested thatSupt.Murphy provide informationto the Board at a subsequent meeting.' Chair Hart extended congratulations to Toistee Henryon being elected as Chair ofthe Native Advisory Committee. 11.REPORT OF THE TRUSTEE PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE 2006 January 20 1:30 p.m.-2:30 p.m. MEMBERS ADMINISTRATION S.Peters S.Pullam T.Roberts J.Stewart 1.AMENDMENT TO AGENDA 2.APPROVAL OF AGENDA The agenda was approved on motion by S.Peters.Seconded by T.Roberts 3.ELECTION OF CHAIR J.Stewart was nominated as Chair by S.Peters and acclaimed as Chair. 4.UPDATE ON P.D.BUDGET A summary of the current 2005-2006 Professional Development Account was provided. Afewtrustees will be attending the OPSBA Public Education Symposium inToronto Feb. 2-4. Priorto April 01,two trustees have confirmed that they will be attending conferences -one in Niagara Falls and one in Saskatoon.Trustees will receive a copy of the Trustee Professional Development Form to use if they wish to commit dollars to any conferences after April 01.The forms should be submitted to the PD Committee do Sue Pullam, Trustees'Office for review.There was consensus that reports (either verbal or written) should be submitted to the Board following each PD event attended. There was discussion related to the per Trustee dollar allocation for professional development.The members expressed concern that the allocationwas notsufficientto provide adequate PD funding to trustees this year while also being able to provide surplus dollarsforfuture newtrustee orientation following the municipal election in the fall of 2006.There were no surplus dollars brought forward from last year's PD Budget line to sustain the PD - New Trustees line (As per Board motion)for use as It was intended. 2006 February 28...28 12.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd c.REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE -cont'd 11.REPORT OF THE TRUSTEE PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE -cont'd After much discussion it was recommended that the annuai per Trustee allocation be increased from $1 700 to $2 000 and that an additional $3 900 be secured from this year's Budget Surplus in order to ensure adequate funds are available for NewTrustee orientation following the Municipal Election. RECOMMENDATION: That $3 900 from the Thames Valley D.S.B.current Budget surplus be transferred to the Trustee PD line to ensure that adequate funds are available for NewTrustee orientation following the next MunicipalElection in2006 November. Moved byT.Roberts and carried. 5.OTHER BUSINESS The Committee felt that there were opportunities and interest in Trustees participating In certain System wide Staff Development events.The Committee would appreciate feedback concerning types of internal Staff Development opportunities available within the system which may be of interest to Trustees.Also, the Committee felt that material/resources which are provided to principals be shared/made available to Trustees as well.T.Roberts offered to develop a survey and circulate itto trustees for their Input. 6.NEXT MEETING First weel<of April-specific date yet to be determined. 7.ADJOURNMENT The meeting was adjourned at 2:30 p.m. on motion by T.Roberts.Motion carried. RECOMMENDATION: That $3 900 from the Thames Valley D.S.B.current Budget surplus be transferred to the Trustee PD. line to ensure that adequate funds are available for New Trustee orientation following the next Municipal Election in 2006 November. J.STEWART, Chairperson Following a lengthy discussion the recommendation was moved by J.Stewart and carried. 2006 February 28...29 12.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd c.REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE -cont'd 12.REPORT OF THE POLICY WORKING COMMITTEE 2006 February 07 4:15 p.m.-4:50 p.m. MEMBERS ADMINISTRATION AND OTHERS J.Bennett (Chair) P.Sattler B. Bryce B.Tucker P.Jaffe D.Mugford (4:47)S.Christie Regrets:T.Roberts Director Bryce presided over the meeting pending the election of the Chair. 1.APPROVAL OF AGENDA -The agenda was approved on motion of P.Sattler. 2.CONFLICTS OF INTEREST-none declared 3.ELECTION OF COMMITTEE CHAIR FOR 2006 Director Bryce presided over the election of the Chair for 2006.Trustee Bennett was acclaimed to the position and took the chair. 4.COMMITTEE REPORT OF2005 DECEMBER 6 AND TRACKING SHEET-provided for information 5.INTRODUCTION OF DRAFT POLICY/PROCEDURE -none 6.CONSIDERATION OF POLICY/PROCEDURE FOLLOWING PUBLIC INPUT a.Procedure:Management of Aggressive Behaviour Supt.B.Tucker attended to describe public input received on the Management of Aggressive Behaviour procedure. He noted that input was received from Human Resource Services,the Subject Council for Developmentally Challenged,OSSTF,CUPE and the Joint Health and Safety Committee.Input Included suggestions for housekeeping items and restraining techniques.Amendments were highlighted and Appendix F added on recommendation ofthe Joint Health and Safety Committee.The Ministry of Labour has indicated it is satisfied that all required 15 issues have been addressed. The following motion was moved by P.Jaffe and carried: That the Management of Aggressive Behaviour procedure be forwarded to the 2006 February 28 Board meeting for information. 7.DRAFT POLICY/PROCEDURE REQUIRING FURTHER CONSIDERATION -none 2006 February 28...30 12.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd 0.REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE -cont'd 12.REPORT OF THE POLICY WORKING COMMITTEE -cont'd 8.SUGGESTED POLICY/PROCEDURE REVISIONS a.Procedure:Student Admission -Intemational/Out-of-Provlnce/Flrst Nations/Student Exchange Executive Superintendent B.Greene and Supervisor P.Hearse attended to describe proposed amendments to the procedure on Intematlonal/Out-of-Province/Flrst Nations/Student Exchange.Mr.Hearse noted amendments are required to comply with Bill 194 which amended the Education Act In June 2005. The legislation expanded the current listof tuition fee exemptions for minor children of temporary residents In Canada specifically: -those awaiting determination of an application for permanent residence or a work permit; -those studying full-timeat a university,college or institution in Ontario that receives operating grants from the Government of Ontario; -religious workers authorized to work in Canada. In addition,the Instructions for the Use of Computerized Enrolment Registers for Elementary and Secondary Schools as they relate to student exchanges for five months or less have been amended by the Ministryof Education.These changes have been reflected in the procedure and appendices. Itwas agreed by the Committee that public Input Is not required as amendments are In accordance with the legislation.The following motion was moved by P.Sattler and carried: That the procedure on Intemational/Out-of-Provlnce/Flrst Nations/Student Exchange be forwarded to the February 28 Board meeting for Information. 9.OTHER BUSINESS -none 10.DATE AND TIME OF NEXT MEETING The next meeting will be held on March 7 at 4:00 p.m.In the Governor SImcoe Room. 11.ADJOURNMENT -The meeting adjourned at 4:50 p.m.on motion of P.Jaffe. RECOMMENDATIONS:None J.BENNETT. Chairperson I L. 2006 February 28...31 12.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd c.REPORT OF THE COMMITTEEOF THE WHOLE -cont'd 13.REPORT OF THE INFORMATION COMMITTEE OF THEWHOLE 2006 February 07 7:15 p.m.-10:48 p.m. MEMBERS D.Anstead J.Bennett (Chair) A.Cartier G.Hart J.Henry J.Hunter P.Jaffe D.Moulton D.Mugford S.Peters P.Sattler L.Stevenson M.van Gaalen Regrets:T.Roberts,J.Stewart ADMINISTRATION AND OTHERS B.Bryce B.Greene C.Murphy M.Sereda J.Thorpe D.Blair K.Dalton L.Hutchlnson M.Sereda W.Tucker B.Wagner K.Wilkinson J.Neville S.Christie S.Dawson C.Dennett K.Meeson W.Scott 1.APPROVALOF AGENDA- The agenda was approved on motion of L.Stevenson. 2.CONFLICTS OF INTEREST - No conflicts of interest were declared. 3.CHAIRPERSON'S ANNOUNCEMENTS -none 4.DIRECTOR'S ANNOUNCEMENTS Director Bryce reported that on 2005 December 12.Minister of Education Gerard Kennedyvisited Lord Dorchester P.S. and announced the "Lighthouse"Project,funding initiative for rural secondary schools.Mr. Bryce advised that on 2006 February 02, Ministry guidelineswere received for accessing this program funding inthe amount of $100 000 to $200 000 for a two-year study.The first year of the study will be funded by the government and the second year by school boards. The Director advised that the timelines are short and boards must submit their proposals to the Ministry by 2006 February 10.He noted that the definition of rural school was determined by using postal codes containing "zero". For Thames Valley, the schools identified underthese criteria are Parkhill Collegiate Institute,Glencoe District H.S.,West Elgin S.S.,NorwichDistrict H.S. and Lord Dorchester S.S. 5.PUBLIC PRESENTATIONS Trustee Anstead requested a ruling from the Chair regarding the legitimacy of the N'AmerindFriendship Centre presentation.She expressed concern that the presentation contains reference to the closure of Westminster S.S.and Wheable Centre as contained in the C.N. Watson report recommendations,a decision that will not be made for five years. She also referredto Board Bylaw 7.3.1 "Unsolicited Inpuf whichIndicatesthat it Is not intended that public presentations address legal, property,negotiations or personnel matters. She noted that the Board has moved not to proceed with the recommendations included with the C.N.Watson report and felt that the presentation was premature. Chair Bennett agreed that there was sensitivity related to this Issue as It impacts many students and communities.However,she deemed Itappropriate to move ahead with the presentation and listen to the merits of the concept for an Aboriginal Alternative Secondary School. 2006 February 28...32 12.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd c.REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE -cont'd 13.REPORT OF THE INFORMATION COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE -cont'd 5.PUBLIC PRESENTATIONS -cont'd Chester Langille,Executive Director,N'Amerind (London)Friendship Centre,presented a report regarding the growing need for a newr and more comprehensive alternative secondary school site inthe Aboriginalcommunity. He explained that a comprehensive plan is being developed to address Aboriginal education and ensure a culturallyrelevant and holistic alternative is accessible to First Nation students.Statistics indicated that London's aboriginal population has increased 23%between 1996 and 2001 and provincial data indicates 65% ofoff-reserve students are at riskofdroppingoutofschool. Dropouts are occurring for reasons of urban mobility,cultural relevance and socioeconomic issues.Mr. Langille elaborated on the several proactive initiatives that address aboriginal issues incorporating various community resources and provincial partnerships that have been unanimous endorsed by the First Nation Assemblies. N'Amerind is seeking a partnership with the Thames Valley District School Board to assist in these initiatives through the acquisition of any vacant,secondary sites that may become available to expand theirfacilitieswithinthe urban community to better serve the Aboriginal population in high density areas. Mr. Langille responded to questions posed by trustees.Executive Superintendent J. Thorpe clarified the school closure process and outlined the formalized disposition of surplus property.ExecutiveSuperintendent B.Greene indicatedthatthe Boardcurrently has no secondary sites on the market and provincial regulations stipulate that any vacant site must first be offered to a wide range of educational and government agencies before a public sale can be formalized. 6.THAMES VALLEY DISTRICT SCHOOL COUNCIL ANNUAL REPORT 2004-05 The following 2004-05 Thames Valley District School Council(TVDSC)Annual Report was presented byBrenda Hopkins,Chairperson;RuthTisdale,Vice-Chairperson;Karen Prunner and Arlene Morell. Ms.Hopkins reported that the TVDSC has continued its commitment to be effective partnersin education.Thereport documented the activities ofthe Council In fulfilling the mandate of the Ontario Ministry of Education Regulation 612/00 that school councils must submit an annual report. She reportedthatInthe springof2003,the TVDSC implementeda process wherebythe information from the reports Iscollated and examined to identify areas of strengths and needs for school councils.This enables the Council to effectively address the areas of supportneeded.Summariesofthe Annual Reports are available onthe Board'swebsite at vwuw.tvdsb.on.ca/schoolcouncHs/screDort.shtm. During the school year, the Council continued to respond to a number of the needs identified inthe previous and current reports. As well,recommendations continue to be made to school councils based on best practices.Some of the initiatives addressed are: Revising the School Council Annual Report; Supported Newly Created Secondary School Council Committee; MonthlySchool Council Email Updates; Monthly Written Reports to the Information Committeeofthe Whole; Training Workshops for School Council Parent Members; School Council Pamphlet for Parents; 2006 February 28...33 ^12.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd c.REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE -cont'd 13.REPORT OF THE INFORMATION COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE -cont'd 6.THAMES VALLEY DISTRICT SCHOOL COUNCIL ANNUAL REPORT 2004-05 -cont'd -Recommendation for Succession Planning; -Recommendation on How to Increase Parent Participation; -Resource Documents; -Increase in Policy/Procedure Input Time; -Best Practices Site; - Continued Updatingof School CouncilSection of the Board's Website; -Monthly Meetings with Chairperson &Vice Chairperson ofthe Board; - Supported School Councils - attending meetings, answering questions,etc.; - Improving Communication Pathways Among All Stal<eholders. There has been a steady increase In the number of submissions since the TVDSC started to collate and examine the reports.During the past school year,136 school councils submitted an annual report~an Increase from the 106 reports submitted In 2003-2004,and 76 completed In 2002-2003.This school year,secondary school council report submissions reached 90%with elementary school report submissions at 76%.However, when reports submitted where broken down by Community Education Center,a different pattern appeared. R.TIsdale explained that each school council In Thames Valley has a unique Identity reflective of their school community.A section of the Annual Report listed 16 specific ^~,discussion topics and Inquired If the school council had discussed that topic.Councils ^/were asked to report other additional topics and Issues or challenges considered during the school year.Ms.TIsdale advised that,during a review of the annual reports,various areas that need further Investigation were identified. The following School Council recommendations were presented to the Board for consideration: 1.That the TVDSB continue to support and assist with the collection,compilation and storage of annual school council reports. 2.That the TVDSB survey superintendents to ascertain which schools do not have a functioning school council as per Ontario Ministryof Education Regulations 612/00 and 613/00;and If not,guarantee that one Is initiated. 3.That the TVDSB request that every principal ensures that there Is an e-mail contact for each school council provided to the TVDSC. 4.That the TVDSB address issues negatively influencing parent membership, insufficient frequency of school council meetings,duration of the meetings and the time of day Inwhich the meetings are held. 5.That the TVDSB continue to work collaboratlvely with the Thames Valley District School Council to improve communication on all issues. 6.Thatthe TVDSB carbon copy the TVDSC Chairperson on anyand all communication sent to school councils,unless the matter Is private. ^7. That the TVDSB address the Issue of parent and community spending to purchase items that should otherwise be paid for by education funding. 20Q6 February 28...34 12.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd c.REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE -cont'd 13.REPORT OF THE INFORMATION COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE -cont'd 6.THAMESVALLEYDISTRICTSCHOOLCOUNCILANNUALREPORT2004-05-cont'd Trustee Bennett extended appreciation to all school councils recognizing their tremendous contribution to supporting students and communities. 7.STARBASE LONDON Director Bryce provided background information related to establishing the Board's new Starbase program currently being piloted in London. 0.Murphy Executive Superintendent,Program,introduced and welcomed Janine Pitman,Learning Supervisor;Jeff Major and Jennifer Parker,Coordinator,Math,Science and Technology and Environmental Education.Supt.Murphy advised that Ms.Parker and Mr.Major wrote the Starbase program that connects with the Grade 6 Ontario Science Curriculum.They have been assigned responsibility for implementing the program this year which includes providing teacher training,facilitating classes as well as some teaching. The purpose of the Starbase program is to increase the knowledge,skills and interest of young people in science and technology as well as increase students'awareness of different technological career paths.This five-day curriculum uses aviation and space exploration to excite the children's natural curiosity and instilla sense of fun in learning science and technology.The core subject areas Investigated relate directly to the expectations as outlined in the Ontario Curriculum:Science and Technology. An overview of the five-day curriculum was presented and a number of video clips depicted students participating in the program illustrating a broader context of what is happening in the classroom. It was reported that the Starbase program is arranged with the help and full participation of the London Garrison Council and allows students to experience first hand aviation and space exploration technologies.The program Includes working class visits to such companies as Diamond Aircraft and Wolseley Barracks. A question and answer period followed the presentation.Trustee Bennett thanked the presenters and extended appreciation fortheir role in developing the Starbase curriculum and facilitating the pilot project. 8.BALANCED SCHOOL DAY Superintendent J.Thorpe introduced the Balanced School Day report.He advised that Education Act Regulation 298 states that: "the length of the Instructional program of each school day for pupils of compulsory school age shall be not less than five hours a day excluding recesses or scheduled intervals between classes.The instructional program on a school day shall begin not earlier than 8:00 a.m.and end not later than 5:00 p.m.except with the approval of the Minister.A scheduled interval between classes for the lunch break for pupils and teachers shallbe notless than forty consecutive minutes,there shall be a morning recess and an afternoon recess,each of which shall be not less than ten minutes and not more than 15 minutes in length,for pupils in the primary and junior divisions." 2006 February 28...35 ^12.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd c.REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE -cont'd 13.REPORT OF THE INFORMATION COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE -cont'd 8.BALANCED SCHOOL DAY -cont'd Supt.Thorpe explained the rationale for introducing a balancedschoolday,theschedule and the process forapproval noting the intention is notto advocate forthe introduction of a balanced school day. The primary Intent for changing any school organization should be that It meets the educational needs of the students.Changes In any school organization should not be viewed with the primary purpose to meet the needs of collective agreements. He explained that the Balanced School Day is divided Intothree, large, Instructional periods separated by two nutritionand activity periods.Rather than the day consisting of 300 instructional minutes with two,15-minute recesses and a 60-mlnute lunch break, the day Is "balanced"with300 instructional minutes broken up bytwo,40-minute breaks with 20 minutes for nutrition/20 minutes for activity. This approach to the school day offers the following advantages: Brain compatible research supports the balanced day,optimizes student focus on the learning task,and maintains adequate nutrition levels; Traditional recess-lunch-recess results in three times when classroom time Is lost, the balanced day reduces the amount of re-entry times; Two eating times are provided resulting ina healthier balance offood during the day; Allows for better use of last period of the day; ''^- The shorter outdoor periods reduce the negative effect of poor weather conditions ((e.g.,long indoor recesses,long spells outside In hot/cold temperatures). A sample of the daily schedule for a conventional and a balanced school day was presented. Supt.Thorpe explained the process for implementing a change.A committee Is established of community members and both teaching and non-teaching staff to Investigate possibilities as well as discussions with staff,the federation and the School Council to determine the benefits/shortfalls.Community meetings are held to provide information/rationale surrounding the proposal complete with Identified benefits/ shortfalls.A community survey Is conducted with a minimum 75 percent return rate for responses and a minimum of 80 percent YES votes required.A proposal Is then vetted through the Supervisory Officer to Operations Council outlining the proposed schedule and seeking approval to initiate a pilot (e.g.,September to December).Parents are resurveyed to determine the merits and their views of the program to date.Finally, a recommendation is submitted through the Supervisory Officer to Operations Council for approval to continue/discontinue along with an overview of how the trial has gone and the survey results. Bob Jackson,Principal of Central P.S.In Woodstock,highlighted a number of advantages as well as disadvantages to the balanced school day being piloted at Central. He noted the following advantages: increased instructional and task time; introduction of a literacy hour; gymnasium and clubs activities; ,'^- a designated homework room and 40 minutes of uninterrupted lunch; - the playground is more peaceful; there is less dlsmptlon by student movement; there is more time for students to eat their lunch and integrating with the snack program;and teachers found that longer breaks were more refreshing. 2006 February 28...36 12 REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd c.REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE -cont'd 13.REPORT OF THE INFORMATION COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE -cont'd 8.BALANCED SCHOOL DAY -cont'd Some disadvantages included Issues related to: -half -time staff; - half-day professional development; -classroom coverage; -administering student medications; -attendance; -desk cleaning; -Coordination with outside agencies; -difficulty for students to go home at lunch; -crossing guards schedules;and -less time outside. A question-and-answer session followed. 9.COMPREHENSIVE SCHOOL HEALTH Trustee Stevenson providedopening remarks related to Healthy Schools - A Partnership Approach.Members ofthe Comprehensive School Health Committee-Irene Buckland- Foster and Yvette Laforet-FIiesser,Middlesex-London Health Unit (MLHU);Principals David.Ennis,John Dearness P.S.; Mark Seaton,Harris Heights P.S.;LarryScheider,West Elgin S.S.; and Aniko Varpalotal,Associate Professor,UWO,were introduced and presented information on promoting healthy living/lifestyle programstostudents. D. Ennis explained that today,in an increasingly complex society, there is a need for human services integration.Approaches that link the development of practicalskillsand knowledge with different formsofsocialsupportservicesand healthier physical andsocial environments are most effective in sustaining healthy lives. Ms.Laforet-FIiesser advised that the concept of Comprehensive School Health (CSH)has been endorsed bymore than 20 Canadian organizations and is premised on policiesthat link learning and health. Supported by a broad spectrum of programs, policies and activities, itsfocus is to influence health behaviours and improve the environment. It consists offour components:Healthand Physical Education, Health and Social Services and Programs,Social Support (e.g.,families,students, staff, nurses) and a Healthy Physical Environment.It builds capacity within individuals andthe school community by integrating healthand learning,empoweringthose directly involved,maximizing the growth of teachers and students,strengthening relationships,and building resiliency in schools and peoplewhocare about facilitating innovation and adaptability. Ms.Buckland-Foster,Manager,MLHU.highlighted the active health and physical ingredients thatassist a child to grow andlearn,as well as build thecapacityto apply these principles outside the classroom.These ingredients are consistent with school growth plansand support safe school initiatives by involving parents,teachers and students in meaningful ways.It fosters leadership and promotes positive relationships,anda healthy workplace for teachers and administrators.The program results are evident in the increased achievement in mathematics,English,reading and standardized testing.Survey results Indicate that there is a decrease in absenteeism,bullyingand behavioural issues and an Increase in attentiveness and positive linkages with the community. 2006 February 28...37 I ^ ^'12.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd c.REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE -cont'd 13.REPORT OF THE INFORMATION COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE -cont'd 9.COMPREHENSIVE SCHOOL HEALTH -cont'd The program has been supported byseveral organizations such as the World Health Organization,Canadian Association ofSchool Health,Ministries of Education and Health, Health Promotion, Ontario Health Schools,etc. As well, formal Comprehensive School Health agreements have been established with Peel Region,Simcoe-Muskoka County, Thunder Bay, Hastings-Prince Edward,Halton,Toronto and Aigoma-Sault Ste.Marie. Thames Valley successes include curriculum support from all three health units In Middlesex-London,Elgln-St.Thomas and Oxford County with many collaborative initiatives including Tum Off the Screens, Walkto School,the 4®R Programetc. Principals M.Seaton and L.Schneider highlighteda number ofhealth Initiatives occurring In their schools that are consistent with school growth plans and support and promote a healthy environment. Ms.Laforet-Fiiesser and Trustee Stevenson summarized that there Is a need for a comprehensive frameworkthat integrates programs and supports services forthe health and well-being of the school community.The vision of the study groups is to develop the wording for a policy on Comprehensive School Health for Thames Valley by 2006 September. A brief question and answer period was held.Trustee Bennett thanked the committee members for a comprehensive presentation. ^10.MONTHLY REPORT OF THE CHAIR Chair Hart advised that he attended the OPSBA/AC^PO 2006 Public Education Symposium entitled "Call to Action:Public Education Is Everybody's Business"held on 2008 February 02-04 in Toronto.Also during the month he has been responding to e-mail messages and correspondence. 11.DEPARTMENTAL UPDATES Director's Services During the month of 2006 January,Director Bryce visited Wilton Grove P.S.and Rick Hansen P.S.At Rick Hansen P.S.,he joined students and staff In celebrating the Grade 6 Winter Olympic's Opening Ceremonies.He also toured the schools and met with students,staff and parent representatives; Superintendent Scott Hughes and the Director met with representatives from the N'AmerInd (London)Friendship Centre to receive details of their vision for a comprehensive Native education and social service centre.Should an appropriate school become available,they would like to partner with Thames Valley in such an undertaking; Charmalne Graves and Director Bryce met with a representative from Phi Delta Kappa to discuss this year's Young Authors'Conference to be held Saturday,April29; f Supts.Greene and Thorpe and the Director met with staff from London City Hall to discuss the development of a revised Joint Use Agreement; 2006 February 28...38 12.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd c.REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE -cont'd 13.REPORT OF THE INFORMATION COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE -cont'd 11.DEPARTMENTAL UPDATES,Director's Services -cont'd Mr. Bryce joined students,staff and members of the community at Ingersoll District Collegiate Institute for the United Way Fundralsing announcement.Across the District,schools,students and staff raised a total of $266 976 to support the United Way Campaigns inOxford,Elgin-St.Thomas and London Middlesex,exceeding the goal by nearly $12 000. The following meetings and events were attended by the Director: -OPSBA Bargaining Advisory Meeting; -Regional Economic Summit Planning Meeting; -Public Sector CEO/Administrators'Meeting; -London Chamberof Commerce -"State of the City Address"-Mayor Anne Marie DeClcco; - University of Western Ontario,Faculty of Education,Professional Liaison Advisory Committee Meeting; -Council of Directors'of Education Annual Meeting; -Supervisory Officer Planning Day. In what Is hoped to become an annual event.Director Bryce met with the ETFO Thames Valley Local Executive and stewards to share views and discuss areas of mutual concern.Topics raised by ETFO members included the selection and evaluation process used for school administrators,consistency across the District, responsibilities of Learning Support Teachers,more help for high needs students and questions concerning the large number and the impact of new Initiatives on student learning. DirectorBryce spoke tothe challenges presented bydeclining enrolment and current excess classroom space as well as the need to work together to Improve student learning,student results and the Image of public education. The Director participated Ina teleconference,roundtable discussion with Canadian Business Leaders hosted by The Council for Early Child Development focusing on building effective,wIn-wIn partnerships with the business community. Representatives from the Ministry of Children and Youth Services,Investing In Children,the City of London,Merrymount Children's Centre,London Children's Connection and the TVDSB joined Mr.Bryce during the teleconference; Staff Development updates Included: New Teacher Winter Conference,Mid-year New Hires Conference,Instructional Strategies that Engage the Brain,Mentor Training,Observation Debrief,Administrative Mentoring,Facilitating Effectively, Instructional Coaching Awareness Session,Leadership Connections:From Site to System,Leadership:Building Professional Learning Communities,Powerful Designs for Professional Learning,7 Habits of Highly Effective People,Four Roles of Leadership,Active Learning Strategy,Professional Reading Program and Leadership 2006 Conference. A "N I < 12.REPORTS OF COMNIITTEES -cont'd 2006 February 28...39 c.REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE -cont'd 13.REPORT OF THE INFORMATION COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE -cont'd 11.DEPARTMENTAL UPDATES -Director's Services -cont'd •Public Affairs and Community Relations update included: -Thames Valley Education Foundation - Curtis T.Conrade Estate Parkside Collegiate Institute hosted a reception on December 19 to celebrate early Literacy programs that have been developed with money donated through the Thames ValleyEducation Foundation bythe estate of the late Curtis T. Conrade. The Conrade donation has been used to develop special literacy packages that provide EarlyYears students with resources they need to help them learn to read; -The TVDSB e-Newsletter continues to inform parents and guardians throughout the system.Itis produced monthly and distributed viae-mail byPublicAffairsstaff. First published in 2001 December the e-Newsletter now reaches an audience of approximately 1,000 parent subscribers plus members of School Councils, Home and School Associations and other parent groups with tips and Information they can use to help their children learn at home.It is also used by schools as a source of information they can include in their regular newsletters: -The recently-published Ameresco Better Schools Partnership newsletter,which highlights the Thames Valley District School Board's contribution to energy conservation,has been widely distributed across the District.Distribution points Included the Board of Trustees,the Education Centre,Facility Services,all schools/school councils,municipalities across the District; District MPs and MPPs and local environmental agencies; -Our Vision Supervisor Paul McKenzie has provided Operations Council with a proposal that would more explicitly connect Our Vision initiatives with Thames Valley's collective endeavour to target improved results for all students in all grades. While there has always been a connection between Our Vison and Our Mission, it isfelt that a clearer alignment between the two will sharpen the focus on the Board's learning initiatives; All departments are in the process of preparing their components of the Annual Report of Our Vision for presentation to the Board at the Information Committee of the Whole Meeting in April. Human Resource Services - All retirees who hold membership in one of our retiree benefit plans have been notified of the new rates effective 2006 January 01.Confirmation of enrollment will continue throughout the month; - Disability Management staff are working with approximately 54 staff members in their return to work programs as a result of non-occupational and occupational Illnesses and injuries. - During the months of December and January,the Thames Valley District School Council (TVDSC)activities included the following: -TVDSC's chairperson was invited to attend the 2005 December 02 meeting with the Minister of Finance Dwight Duncan but was not able because of inclement weather. An input report was sent electronically. 2006 February 28...40 12.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd c.REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE -cont'd 13.REPORT OF THE INFORMATION COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE -cont'd 11.DEPARTMENTAL UPDATES -Director's Services -cont'd -TVDSC's rescheduled meeting was held on 2005 December 08.The agenda included executive elections,discussion on the PVEP report from the Minister,the ON Watson Report and the Capital Plan and the Political/Sectarian/Religious Advertising in Schools Policy. All meeting dates,agendas and reports can be found on the web site. The TVDSC Executive elections were held with the following results: -Chairperson,Brenda Hopkins -Vice-Chairperson,Ruth Tisdale -Secretary,Arlene Morell -Members-at-Large (new position withtwo representatives from each CEC area): CEC Central -Paul Huston &Margaret MacPherson;CEC South -Carolyn Walker &Michelle Boyce; CEC East -Randy Gordon &position to be filled; -TVDSC's chairperson and vice-chairperson attended the Thames Valley DSB Inaugural meeting on 2005 December 13 and brought greetings on behalf of the TVDSC. -TVDSC's met on 2006 January 26.The agenda included an update on the Board's Capital Plan including information about the French Immersion Accommodation recommendations,communication issues and difficulties being experienced by parents who are receiving/not receiving information from the Board,library staffing in secondary schools,further discussion on the Political/Sectarian/Religious Advertising in Schools Policy; -The Minister requested the continuance of participation of the TVDSC's Chairperson on the Interim Parent Involvement Advisory Board (formerly known as Parent Voice in Education Project). B. Hopkins has accepted this position.Meetings are to start in mid-February. - TVDSC representatives continue theirwork on the preparation ofthe presentation to the Board on the 2004/05 School Council Annual Reports.It will be presented on 2006 February 07 at the Information Committee of the Whole meeting. - school council parent representatives attended various board /committee meetings; - Met with or communicated by email and phone with school council parents to answer their questions and address concerns on issues such as Fl Accommodation Review, Capital Planning,CM Watson Report,Surplus Funds and Safe School Initiatives. -invitations for the 3rd Annual School Councii Symposium were sent to 72 school boards -attended December and January's Information Committee of the Whole,Committee of the Whole,and Board meetings. - There are currently216 (16 filled byretirees)elementary longterm occasional (LTD) teachers.The numbers on the elementary short term lists are 1475 (421 retirees); 2006 February 28...41 12.REPORTS OF COWIWIITTEES -cont'd c.REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE -cont'd 13.REPORT OF THE INFORMATION COMMITTEEOF THE WHOLE -cont'd 11.DEPARTMENTAL UPDATES -Human Resource Services -cont'd -Pandemic Planning inthe Community -The three Health Unitswithinthe Thames ValleyDistrict School Board are at various stages ofthe pandemic planning process. The Middlesex-London Health Unit has prepared and released a plan.The Middlesex-London Health Unit is now in discussion with various organizations within the community. The Elgin-St.Thomas Health Unit has prepared a draft plan as an interim measure and will be further enhancingthat plan with the hiring ofa one year contractual position that will co ordinate and strengthen the existing draft documents.The OxfordCountyBoard of Healthhas prepared a draftand is reviewing it Internally.Each ofthe Health Units has indicated an Intent to provide some consultation on their Individual plan expectations. -Pandemic Planning inthe Thames Valley District School Board - Human Resource Services - Health and Safety prepared a draft Pandemic Plan for review and discussion for Executive Council. This draft plan provides a brief introduction on what is considered a pandemic and disease outbreaks of historic significance. The proposed planfurtherreinforces theThames ValleyDistrict School Board's commltmentto providing a safe and healthy working or learning environment bylistingsome Infectioncontrol measures for staff and students.These preventative practices,such as hand washing and covering cough/sneezes,will help reduce the spread of microblal contaminants from individualto individual. The document presented for consideration establishes a Response Control Group that may need to respond to two possible scenarios.The first scenario is based on the identificationofa potential virus that isonly transmittable from"animal to human" and not "human to human".The response of the control group is to assist the community partners with isolation and monitoring.The Response Control Group may also need to address the next stage of a potential pandemic outbreak;the mutation of the virus to a potential human to human transmission.It is anticipated this stage will result In the ordering of school closures by Health Officials.It is speculated that there maybe massive absenteeism during this phase ofa pandemic crisis.The Response Control Group will use the resources available to conduct those functions considered critical to meet any Thames Valley District School Board obligations and commitments.The document concludes with addressing the recovery phase on a pandemic event.With the submission ofthis draft plan, further recommendations on enhancing an infection control program and clarifying the Thames Valley District School Board's co-operation with the Local Health Units on influenza surveillance have been made.It has been further recommended an extensive consultation take place with those stakeholders within the school and broader community. -Secondary class sizes and additional professional assignments are being reviewed as a result of changes negotiated In the collective agreement.We are very pleased with the work completed by school administration and their in-school staffing committees: -Human Resource Services has added 180 teachers to the occasional teacher's list. This brings the current supply to 798 occasional teachers on the listof which about 34% (270) are retirees. A tentative agreement was reached with the secondary occasional teachers; 2006 February 28...42 12.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -confd c.REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE -cont'd 13.REPORT OF THE INFORMATION COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE -cont'd 11.DEPARTMENTAL UPDATES,Hunrian Resource Services -cont'd - Hiringof permanent Educational Assistants Is ongoing subsequent to the completion of the internal postings in December.Atotal of22 positions was advertised externally to fill the equivalent of 13.5 FTE positions. Operations Services Principals and Vice-Principals attended a full-day in-service session on either 2005 December 08 or 09 with Charlotte Danielson in which she reflected on practices characteristic of effective schools; Barrle Bennett recently completed five days of Increasing Instructional Intelligence in-service in five school locations throughout the District; A report from Dr.Graham Pollett of the Middlesex-London Health Unit was provided that corresponded with the Comprehensive Health item and indicated that many Thames Valley schools have active and effective Healthy School Committees operating in support of encouraging healthy lifestyles; An additional 38 lines (6.33 teachers)have been allocated to secondary school staffing for Semester 2 which begins 2006 February 06.Class sizes and teacher workload continue to be nionitored as they relate to the collective bargaining agreement; Preparations are undenvay for the allocation of elementary staff for the 2006-07 school year as well as Investigating the most beneficial way to allocate primary staff to maximize the additional provincial funds in the most number of schools.The implications of additional primary classes is being discussed in an effort to work toward the Ministry expectations for 2007. The preliminary enrolment projections have been prepared for the 2006-07 school year. This isthe basis for submission to the Ministry for grants,budget development and staffing levels in the elementary and secondary panels.The figures continue to show declining elementary enrolment (approximately 2% for the current school year figure).The secondary projection shows a stable population forecast for the coming school year.A full report on the projection data will be submitted to the Board later in February. Work is continuing with respect to the Ministry of Education requirements for the Board's 'Long-Term Capital Plan.'Data Is being prepared for entry into the Ministry template,particularly forthe enrolment data,school-by-grad,for the ten-year Ministry requirement; A New Administrators'In-service was held on Thursday,January 12th,on "Leadership Connections."This in-service was facilitated by the Supervisor of System Staff Development and was very well received by all participants.The next session will be held 2006 February 16 with Human Resource Services presenting information on elementary and secondary staffing. Research and Assessment initiatives included: -Completion of Gifted screening for the 2005-06 school year with all reports delivered to schools; X,2006 February 28...43 12.REPORTS OF COWIWllTTEES -cont'd c REPORT OF THE COMMITTEEOF THE WHOLE -cont'd 13. REPORT OF THE INFORMATION COMMITTEE OF THEWHOLE - cont'd 11. DEPARTMENTALUPDATES -Operations Services - cont'd -System-wide data collection for improvement planning is ongoing,in partnersiiip with tlie Speech and Language Pathoiogists'department, a story retell project Is being piloted.Data analysis for the fall Primary DRA was completed and reports produced for schools/system.Collection of Junior DRA is now complete and analysis and report productionis occurring; Data consolidation tasks/development of reports to support school interpretation and use of data in planning continue.Stage One reports including student level summaries of Phonological Awareness and DRA assessments have been updated withEQAO results.'Updates withadditional assessment information is being planned.Stage Two reports are being developed and will be posted in February for school use; -Support to school staff in the analysis of the EQAO provincial testing is ongoing. Workshops on EQAO data use were conducted during December for Principals,Superintendents and Learning Coordinator. A workshop for Speech &Language Pathoiogists will be conducted; Ongoing analysis oftrend informationis being conducted includinganalysis of the Item Level Reports,EQAO survey results and school trends; r ^_-Support to school staff in terms of data file preparation and support for the actual administration for the upcoming EQAO tests is occurring.EQAO test dates this year are: Grade 9 Assessment of Mathematics -2006 Jan 05-25 and 2006 May 23-June 13 Grade 3 and Grade 6 Assessments of Reading,2006 May 23-June 09 Writing and Mathematics: OSSLT:2006 March 29 Corporate data functions underway include:analysis for enrollment,class size and staffing purposes,OnSIS,LOG funding tracking,graduation rate calculations,and completion of Pathways data requirements; System evaluation projects now underway Include:Re-Connect,Work Place Internship,Save a Credit,Mathematics initiatives.Hearing Program review, survey of elementary students on Safe Schools,STEPS project, Reading Recovery; School-based projects and surveys are in the design phase at a number of schools and undenvay in a number of schools. Safe Schools Initiatives included: R.Stinson,Vice-Principal, EmilyCarr P.S.,has been seconded as Safe Schools Project Coordinator.She will facilitate the roll-out of the Safe School Survey ^•school level process at the elementary level,continue the implementation of the (District plan for addressing discrimination based on sexual orientation,and organize additionalTribes trainingfor teachers; 20Q6 February 28...44 12.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd c.REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE -cont'd 13.REPORT OF THE INFORMATION COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE -cont'd 11.DEPARTMENTAL UPDATES -Operations Services -cont'd As part of an ongoing process to understand and respond to issues of bullying and safety in our schools,the TVDSB is extending its Safe Schools Survey to elementary schools.During the week of February 13-17,students in Grades 4-8 will be asked to answer a series of questions which will assist in determining why students do not report bullying,and strategies that students fee!would be effective to encourage student reporting.Each school community will then develop action teams (planning groups)comprised of staff,students and parents which will mirror the process that occurred at the secondary level. TVDSB secondary schools have developed their action plans and are implementing the steps to address their key Ideas; A time line of the roll-out plan for the elementary Safe School Survey school level process was presented to administrators at their January COS meetings and will be distributed to Trustees.Principals were also given a copy of the Ministry report,"Shaping Safer Schools -A Bullying Prevention Action Plan", to outline how our Safe School Survey and school level process fits within the recommendations; Two grade 10 English teachers from four schools will be participating in The Fourth R (Relationships)pilot project that integrates curriculum expectations for the English program and an important topic related to Safe Schools.Through funding provided by TVDSB Safe Schools,teachers are provided with a selection of short stories and related lesson plans as well as in-service sessions to support the integration of important Safe Schools topics and English classroom curriculum; Stand by Me mentor volunteers are active in many elementary schools this year with an additional 70 mentors being trained at Fanshawe College in 2006 January.There are currently more than 130 volunteers matched with students who have been identified as "at risk"in 55 TVDSB schools; Research and Assessment prepared a summary based on the evaluations completed from students at the November 2005 SAVE Conference,"Bystanders Make a Difference."Overall,workshop ratings were very positive with 98%of students agreeing that the workshop provided violence prevention ideas to use at their own school while 92%agreed that they are likely to change some behaviour based on what they learned during the workshop; During 2006 January 05,elementary teachers were trained on Steps to Respect, a curriculum-based program teaching important social skills when dealing with bullying.Resource kits for this Safe Schools pilot program will be distributed to 30 elementary schools this year; The Tribes process creates a culture that maximizes learning and human development.An additional 100 teachers have been trained in the 24-hour, Intensive Tribes training bringing the total to more than 500 TVDSB teachers that have participated in 17 training sessions; Supt.Wagner provided details ofan evening workshop on the "Virtues Project" which identifies key principles in building character; 2006 February 28...45 12.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd c.REPORT OF THE COMMITTEEOF THE WHOLE -cont'd 13. REPORT OF THE INFORMATION COMMITTEE OFTHEWHOLE - cont'd 11. DEPARTMENTALUPDATES -Operations Services - cont'd - The 2006-07 Elementary,SecondaryandSirGeorgeRoss School YearCalendars havebeen completed according to Regulation 304ofthe Education Actand public input was requested from parents,school councils,local branch affiliates of teachers'federations,unions,members ofthe communityand coterminous boards. Public input was received during the period 2006 January 03-27; The Elementary,Secondaryand SirGeorge Ross schoolyear calendars are tobe presented tothe Board on2006 February 14forfinal approval prior to submission to the Ministryof Education by 2006 March 01; -Shared Reading workshop scheduling, approved as part of the surplus funds available for literacy initiatives,was provided.Workshops will be presented byC. Graves,Learning Supervisor,and S.Jackson,Learning Coordinator,Program Services.Trustees are encouraged to attend a session in their area. Program Services Special Education updates includedthe following: The Gifted Review has been completed and will be ready for presentation to the Special Education Advisory Committee In January: -There have been two meetings of the Hearing Impaired Review Committee.Many issues have been discussed and information is being gathered from a variety of sources before discussing the content of a survey and the nature of observation teams which might be formed; Special Education Services iswellonthewaytoimplementingthe recommendations from the Pervasive Developmental Disorder (PDD) review.Extensive in-service has taken place using the"TEACH"program. Inaddition,we are providingopportunities for facilitator training under the Geneva program; TVDSB was again well represented at this year's "Coaching to Inclusion"conference held on Tuesday,November 15,and Wednesday,November 16, at the Best Western Lamplighter Inn and Conference Centre.Well-known presenter and author Dr.Richard Villa presided over both days'events speaking before approximately 30 TVDSB "school leaders"on the topic of'Changing Organization Cultures:Caring & Effective Education". Hespoke onTuesday eveningbefore guiding 80 TVDSB registrants throughthree workshops.The Possible Futures of Education, Exchanging Dissonance for Harmony:Creative Responses to Students ExperiencingBehaviouraland Emotional Challenges and Access tothe Curriculum for All duringthe conference's mainevent on Wednesday.Students across the Districtare sure to benefit as a result of the quality ofthe information presented and thewiderange ofkeenlyinterested TVDSB staff present at this year's conference; The GiftedLead Teacher in-service,half-day presentations took place whichoffered supply teacher coverage for one teacher from each school. The topic of " Differentiated Instruction for Gifted Students"included presentations from Medway School for secondary teachers.Schools who attended received a book and CD entitled "Differentiation".This in-service was providedwith funds fromthe LOG grant for professional development; 2006 February 28...46 12.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd c.REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE -cont'd 13.REPORT OF THE INFORMATION COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE -cont'd 11.DEPARTMENTAL UPDATES -Program Services -cont'd This fall,the Steps for Success programs have benefited from a series of workshops focused on children's mental health issues and related treatment options; In October,Dr. Rick Andreychuk from CPRI gave a presentation on Bipolar Disorder.In November,Dr.Duncan McKinlay,w^ho is also from CPRI,provided information regarding disorders of "dis-inhibitlon"such as ADHD and Tourettes.In December,Laura Sperofrom the Southwest Aboriginal Health Centre,spoke about Fetal Alcohol Effects and Fetal Alcohol Syndrome.Sandi Evans and Don Hunter shared information about CSCN and Wraparound.Virginia Rutledge reviewed programs offered through Merrymount Services; in addition to this,Nicholas Wilson,Steps for Success teacher,was able to participate in the "Triple P Parenting"in-service.This wonderful opportunity was provided through the Ministry of Child and Youth Services.Steps for Success staff look forward to more exciting learning opportunities in 2006; The 2005 Learning Conference saw more than 600 educators converge on Clarke Road S.S.to take advantage of 18 workshops offered by multi disciplinary teams from the Board's Special Education and School and Community Services departments.A wide array of workshops on topics ranging from Supporting DC/Autistic Students Through the TEACCH Model to Meeting the Needs of Bl-Polar Students and Reach Them THEN Teach Them:Responding to the Needs of the MID Student were designed and delivered by dozens of TVDSB staff as a means of further enhancing staff capacity in meeting the needs of the diverse range of students served by Thames Valley; CODE Project -School-Wide Applications Model was established following a project proposal process that saw TVDSB receive $250 000.Eastdale PS In Woodstock has been selected as a demonstration school for enhancing practice in the areas of numeracy,literacy and inclusion for 'special needs'students in grades JK - 8. Although the project is in Its planning stage,staff have already begun to generate a number of potential directions for this exciting project that will continue to grow and enhance practice over the months to come.Meetings have taken place and dates have been set for classroom visitations; CODE Project -Hearing Awareness Workshop in Conjunction with the London District Catholic Board was funded by the "CODE GRANT'and was a joint workshop with the London and District Catholic School Board.Sixteen TVDSB staff were in attendance at an all-day Awareness Workshop held at The Roberts School for the Deaf on 2005 December 07; The audience included regular classroom teachers,educational assistants,and Learning Support teachers that work with deaf or hearing-impaired students intheir schools.Topics covered were:Audiology,Facilitating Communication,Personal Hearing Aids,Social/Psychological Implications,Language,Personal and Sound Field F.M.Systems,and a Simulation of a Hearing Loss. 2006 February 28...47 12.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd c.REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE -cont'd 13.REPORT OF THE INFORMATION COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE -cont'd 11.DEPARTMENTAL UPDATES -Program Services -cont'd School and Community Services initiatives included: Attendance and Social Work Services The Attendance and Social Work Services staff organized a professional development opportunity on December 2, 2005, featuring Dr.Wayne Hammond,Executive Director of Resiliency Canada.Dr.Hammond provided an overview of the strengths-based assessment and developmental frameworks that can be utilized in supporting school communities and students In developing resiliency and promoting pro-social choices.Dr.Hammond will be providing additional training and consultation to support various department and system pilot initiatives focussing on transition to secondary school and school engagement. Community &Curriculum Projects included: To date,17 Quality Arts InAction performances have occurred at area schools and schools are eagerly anticipating the 89 performances to be completed between January and June; Health &Physical Education plansare underway forthe 5'^yearofthe Helmet On Kids campaign.The Ontario Trial Lawyers'Association and the London Brain Injury Association are still the lead in this partnership.Last year,812 helmets were donated to students in need within the City of London.Once again we hope to have donated helmets available to students within the Cityin June; The implementation of Risk Watch continues to expand throughout the District. In 2005 September,funding was received from local Tim Horton franchise owners with $10 000 worth of curriculum materials donated to the London & Middlesex Risk Watch Coalition (shared with TVDSB and LDCSB).Tim Horton is to receive feedback related to the project toward partnering again next year. The 2005 Canadian Injury Prevention Conference was held in Halifax in 2005 November and the London &Middlesex Risk Watch Coalition presented our successful partnership with our local Tim Horton owners.The presentation was well received by participants; Plans for the RCMP Racing Against Drugs program for grade 5 students is currently underway.This program will be taking place In London from February 21 to 24th.This worthwhile program focuses on substance use and abuse; Addiction Services of Thames Valley is currently conducting presentations to interested grade 5 classes throughout Thames Valley-a fun.Interactive, educational presentation about prevention of gambling,and related problems; The Children's Safety Village focus this year continues with the following grades:Fall -Grade 1;Winter -Grade 2;and Spring -Grade 4.Kindergarten students are also invited in December and InApril. 2006 February 28...48 12.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd c.REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE -cont'd 13.REPORT OF THE INFORMATION COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE -cont'd 11.DEPARTMENTAL UPDATES -Program Services -cont'd Speech and Language Services,in conjunction with Research and Assessment, has revised the story retell screening tool and will be piloting the screen along with an eight-week Intervention program In selected kindergarten classes early in the new year. This initiativeIsIntended tofocus on students'oral comprehension skills, a necessary precursor to reading comprehension.Teachers will be able to use the results of the screening to target specific areas for oral language programming; Ready for School,the Thames Valley Neighbourhood Early Learning Program,will be commencing its fourth year this month.The goal of TVNELP Is to provide 3- years-olds and their parents an opportunity to visit schools and meet a variety of community partners In order to increase their school readiness skills In the year priortoJunior Kindergarten.This promises to be a record-breaking year witha total of 36 TVDSB and 8 London District Catholic Schools participating.Continued collaboration with our community partners has resulted in an enhanced curriculum with new and interesting activities for the children and their parents.An additional focus this year has been to ensure accessibility for those families with children with special needs and those whose first language is not English.A copy of the Ready for School calendar which lists the schools and session dates was provided; Reading Recovery Is the new Thames Valley Initiative to dramatically reduce the number of children who will require additional specialist services In school.This early intervention/prevention,or 'second chance to learn literacy*program,targets the lowest achieving readers and writers In grade one,regardless of their personal or school histories.Research shows that average achievers in grade one will continue to be average achievers throughout their academic careers.However, children who are low achieving in grade one will continue to be low achieving throughout their schooling,with the gap between their achievement and the average children's achievement widening exponentially year after year; The two positive outcomes of Reading Recovery are that children are able to continue their learning supported by the regular classroom program once lessons have been discontinued,or that children are successfully Identified as needing further help with literacy learning,and that after about 20 weeks of Individual instruction,are referred for long-term literacy support.The latter group are truly the children who will require special services,usually only about 2 to 4% of all grade one children; Reading Recovery is currently being delivered by specially-trained teachers to 52 grade one students who are the lowest literacy achievers intheir respective schools across the 13 schools In Thames Valley where Reading Recovery Is being Implemented at the present time.Twelve schools-Algonquin,Bonaventure Meadows,Brick Street,Eagle Heights,Ealing,Edward Street,Glen Cairn,Locke's, Manor &Highland Park, Myrtle Street,Princess Elizabeth(Ingersoll)and Sir Isaac Brock-are each training one Reading Recovery teacher while one trained Teacher Leader works with students at Lord Nelson,home to the new training facility; Training teachers are now about halfway through completing their year-long, intensive in-service program Inwhich they learn and explore the proven,research- based theory and procedures of Reading Recovery.Three times during the year each teacher will bring one of their students behind a one-way screen to teach, providing the rest ofthe group with the opportunity to discuss,clarify and question their own understandings of the program. 2006 February 28...49 t ^'12.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES-cont'd c.REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE -cont'd 13.REPORT OF THE INFORMATION COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE -cont'd 11.DEPARTMENTAL UPDATES -Program Services -cont'd In subsequent years, Reading Recovery teacliers will continueto meet and teach monthly.The practical training that these teachers receive benefits not only Reading Recovery children within the program but has also shown to benefit student leaming in classrooms withtrained Reading Recovery teachers; Reading Recovery teachers workhalf-time within their individual schools to deliver theprogram.Through individually designed Intensive,one-to-one lessons each day for 30 minutes,children in Reading Recovery begin to develop effective strategies for reading and writing in order to reach the average levels of their classroom's performance.Following their discontinuation or referral from their daily lessons, Reading Recovery children continue to be monitored by the Reading Recovery teachers through to the end of grade three to make sure that the gains they had made while in the program are being sustained.At any time that a student leaves the Reading Recovery program,their slot is filled by another child who meets the requirements of the program.There are always four children participating in the intervention/prevention program at each Reading Recovery school; During the 2006-2007 school year,it is anticipated that 24 new schools will train teachers,in addition to the 13 schools currently working with Reading Recovery. ^This will mean that at least 144 new children will benefit from the opportunity I provided by Reading Recovery.Any inquiries or comments regarding Reading ^-Recovery may be directed to Trish Elcombe,Reading Recovery Teacher Leader, 452-8068 or t.elcombe@tvdsb.on.ca. Business Services Facility Services Projects and Maintenance updates Included include Jack Chambers P.S.addition,school renewal.Best Start potential school sites an renovations/additions costs and Energy Management initiatives; The 2005 August Financial statements and Deloitte Touche LLP audited report was presented to the Board on 2006 January 24.The interim budget of 60%allocated to schools and departments for supplies/services,furniture/equipment and.staff development during 2005 September has now been adjusted to include the 40% hold back.Elementary,secondary and Con.Ed.2006-07 and 2007-08 enrolment projects were filed with MET on 2006 January 16; RFP for carpet cleaning,upholstery and drapery underway.Reviewing fiame spread rating of all stage drapery and where necessary retreating or replacement occurring.Charge custodians have been trained re asbestos regulations remaining staff trained during February and March.Annual summary of recyclable materials provided; Support Services update included Transportation Services; Payroll Services update included preparation of T4 and T4A documents,T2200, redesigned IPPS software test system. f ^The Administration responded to questions posed by Trustees.Chair Hart ^•requested thatan update on Community Useof Buildings,Facilities and Equipment be included in subsequent departmental updates. 2006 February 28...50 12.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd c.REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE -cont'd 13.REPORT OF THE INFORMATION COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE -cont'd 12.ADJOURNMENT The meeting adjourned at 10:48 p.m.on motion 8.Peters. J.BENNETT, Chairperson 14.REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE -IN CAMERA 2006 February 14 ADMINISTRATION AND OTHERSMEMBERSPRESENT P.Sattler (Chair) D.Anstead J.Bennett A.Cartler G.Hart J.Henry J.Hunter P.Jaffe (5:07) D.Mugford S.Peters (5:30) L.Stevenson J.Stewart (5:47) B.Bryce B.Greene M.Sereda J.Thorpe D.Blair K.Dalton J.Empringham K.Havelka S.Hughes W.Tucker B.Wagner K.Wilkinson S.Christie C.Dennett Regrets:T.Roberts The Committee met in camera from 5:05 p.m.to 6:45 p.m. 1.APPROVAL OF AGENDA Items 5 and 6 were reversed in order to address a timed item at 5:40 p.m.The agenda as amended was approved on motion of L.Stevenson. 2.CONFLICTS OF INTEREST Trustee Hart declared a conflict of interest to the renumbered Item 5.a,"Memorandum of Agreemenf,citing family employment. 3.Confidential legal and negotiations matters were discussed. 4.RISE AND REPORT A motion to rise and report was moved by J.Stewart at 6:45 p.m.and carried. RECOMMENDATIONS: 1.That the motions approved at the in-camera session of 2006 February 14 related to a memorandum of agreement,ratification ofa tentative settlement and purchase ofa data warehousing solution be approved. 2.That the contract for alarm response services be awarded to Initial Security Services. P.SATTLER, Chairperson The recommendations were moved by P.Sattler and carried.Chair Hart advised trustees that a BylawReview Committee meeting has been scheduled for 2006 February 28 at 3:30 p.m. ^"2006 February 28...51 ^-12.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd c.REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE -cont'd 13.REPORT OF THE INFORMATION COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE -cont'd 15.ADJOURNMENT The meeting adjourned at 9:08 p.m. on motion of J.Stewart. G.HART, Chairperson RECOMMENDATIONS FROM THE 2006 FEBRUARY 14 COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING 1.That the foilowing boundary modification between East Oxford and Southside Public Schools be approved with implementation for 2006 September. The boundary of Southside Public School be modified to include the lands east of Mill Street and north of Highway 401,and west of the extension of the current eastern boundary of Southside Public School; Students currently attending East Oxford Public School be accommodated at Southside Public School effective September 2006;and Students currently in grades 6 and 7 wishing to remain at East Oxford Public School be permitted to do so without transportation." /"^2. That the Attendance Area for Students procedure be referred to the Policy Working I Committee for review. 3.That the Board approve for referral to the Minister of Education the regular 2006 -2007 Elementary School Year Calendar,the regular 2006 -2007 Secondary School Year Calendar and the modified 2006 -2007 School Year Calendar for Sir George Ross Secondary School. 4.That $3 900 from the Thames Valley D.S.B.2005-06 contingency fund be transferred to the Trustee PD. line to ensure that adequate funds are available for New Trustee orientation following the next Municipal Election in November 2006. 5.That the motions approved at the in-camera session of 2006 February 14 related to a memorandum of agreement,ratification of a tentative settlement and purchase of a data warehousing solution be approved. 6.That the contract for alarm response services be awarded to Initial Security Services. The recommendations 1,3,4,5,and 6 were adopted on motion of J.Stewart and D.Anstead and carried. Recommendation 2 was separated out and adopted on motion of P.Sattler and L.Stevenson and carried. 2006 February 28...52 12.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd d.REPORT OF THE CHAIRS'COMMITTEE 2006 February 22 1:43 p.m.-4:00 p.m. MEMBERS ADMINISTRATION AND OTHERS G.Hart P.Battler B.Bryce J.Hunter J.Bennett 8.Christie 1.APPROVAL OF AGENDA Item 14.3."Trustee Handbook"was added to the agenda.The agenda,as amended,was approved on motion of P. Battler. 2.CONFLICTS OF INTEREST -none declared 3.REVIEW OF 2006 FEBRUARY 24 BOARD AGENDA The agenda for the Board meeting was discussed and updated. 4.PARENT VOICE IN EDUCATION PROJECT Executive Superintendent M.Sereda joined the meeting to discuss the Parent Voice In Education Project.He presented a recommendation from the President of the Thames Valley District School Council to establish a committee to prepare for the implementation of new Ministry of Education Initiatives stemming from the Parent Involvement Advisory Board.Chair Hart will clarify issues of representation on the committee.Discussion will continue at the next meeting. 5.CORRESPONDENCE It was agreed that the following correspondence will be added to the February 28 Board meeting agenda under "Communications": Report of Pandemic Influenza Plan from the Middlesex-London Health Unit; Thames Valley Council of Home and School Associations regarding support for more teacher training in First Aid and CPR; Greentec International regarding school fund raising. 6.OPSBA AWARDS PROGRAM The OPSBA awards program was discussed noting the deadline for receipt of nominations isApril 21,2006.Trustees wishing to present a nomination are asked to contact Chair Hart. 7.FEBRUARY 17,2006 MEETING Chair Hart advised that he and Director Bryce were Invited to attend a meeting of sample publicand catholic boards inthe Toronto area on February 17 regarding education funding. 8.TRUSTEE DISTRIBUTION -2006 NOVEMBER ELECTIONS Director Bryce indicated that data has been received from the municipalities regarding the Thames Valley electorate.He noted that the Board qualifies for 12 trustees based on the English population.Past Board motion approved system representation as 2-Elgin,2- Mlddlesex,2-Oxford,6-London. He advised that he is unable to prepare the final report as the ward structure in London has not yet been determined and requested that trustees determine their willingness to allocate trustee representation on the previous basis.Once the London ward structure is determined,representation for London trustees will be determined. /2006 February 28...53 'I 12.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd d.REPORT OF THE CHAIRS'COMMITTEE -cont'd 8.TRUSTEE DISTRIBUTION -2006 NOVEMBER ELECTIONS,cont'd The following motion was moved by P.Sattler and carried. That trustee representation for the Thames Valley District School Board for the 2006 municipal election be approved as follows: Elgin County 2 Middlesex County 2 Oxford County 2 City of London 6 9.COMMUNICATION/CONSULTATION ON CAPITAL PLAN The process of communicating the administrative report ofthe Capital Plan was discussed. The report will be presented at the February 28 Board meeting and posted to the Board's website following the meeting.A copy will be sent to principals,school councils and local MPs and MPPs.Next steps on items that may move forward,that are not dependent on the Plan,will be considered at the March Board meeting. 10.REQUEST BY STUDENT TRUSTEES TO ATTEND OSTA CONFERENCE Requests of the student trustees to attend the Ontario Student Trustee Association Conference from March 2-5 In Ottawa were considered and approved for attendance,travel and three nights'accommodation. ^•11.OTHER BUSINESS Trustee Handbook Trustee Hunter agreed to review and update the Trustee Handbook for the coming term. 12.DATE AND TIME OF NEXT MEETING The following committee meetings have been scheduled: -2006 March 22 -9:30 a.m. -2006 April 19 -9:30 a.m. -2006 May 17 -9:30 a.m. -2006 June 21 -1:30 p.m. 13.ADJOURNMENT The meeting adjourned at 4:00 p.m.on motion of J.Bennett. RECOMMENDATION: That trustee representation for the Thames Valley District School Board for the 2006 municipal election be approved as follows: Elgin County 2 Middlesex County 2 Oxford County 2 City of London 6 G.HART, Chairperson 2006 February 28...54 12.REPORTS OF COWIWIITTEES -cont'd d.REPORT OF THE CHAIRS'COMMITTEE -cont'd The recommendation was adopted on motion of J.Bennett and L.Stevenson. Director Bryce reported that the above recommendation to allocate trustee representation was necessary before the end of 2006 March in order to comply with Education Act requirements. He advised that when the City of London ward structure resolution is received,the representation for London trustees will be determined. 13. 14. e.REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE - IN CAMERA 2006 February 28 MEMBERS PRESENT P.Settler (Chair) J.Hunter D.Anstead S.Peters (5:47) J.Bennett T.Roberts A.Cartier L.Stevenson G.Hart J.Stewart J.Henry ADMINISTRATION AND OTHERS B.Bryce B.Greene C.Murphy M.Sereda J.Thorpe J.Empringham K.Havelka W.Tucker B.Wagner K.Wilkinson S.Christie C.Dennett Regrets:P.Jaffe,D. Mugford The Committee met in camera from 5:13 p.m.to 6:15 p.m. 1.APPROVAL OF AGENDA The agenda was approved on motion of J.Stewart. 2.CONFLICTS OF INTEREST -No conflicts of interest were declared. 3.Confidential legal,negotiations and property matters were discussed. 4.RISE AND REPORT A motion to rise and report was moved by J.Stewart at 6:15 p.m.and carried. RECOMMENDATION: That the Board approve the donation of $150 000 to renovate the athletic field at South Secondary School and that the Board approve the donor's request to have the South Secondary School field renamed. P.SATTLER, Chairperson The recommendation was adopted on motion of P.Sattler and J.Stewart. MOTION -NOTICE OF WHICH HAS BEEN GIVEN ADDITIONAL BUSINESS -none 2006 February 28...55 I 15.COMMUNICATIONS a.ONTARIO PUBLIC SCHOOL BOARDS'ASSOCIATION -UPDATE I Trustee Stevenson highlighted recent initiatives including collaboration on health issues for children;improved delivery of core French In schools toward ensuring graduating Ontario students are bilingual by 2013;and the development of a more comprehensive Grade 12 Calculus curriculum necessary for students entering universities. Trustee Stevenson reportedthatthe OPSBA Policy Committeeis looking at Bill 19 todetermine if whether increasing student community hours of service to 60 will result in a burden for students in some school boards.She advised that the issue has been tabled and sent back for revisions. The Best Start early learning programs for three-to-five-year-old children was promised funding for five years. Tothisend, the Canadian School Board Association (CSBA) has agreed to send a letter to the Federal government requesting that the five-year funding commitment be honoured bythe new govemment.Freedom of Information (FOI)updates and Copyright matters continue to be discussed with Copyright costs to boards being watched closely.Trustee Stevenson advised that a copyofthe discussion paper will be available Inthe Trustee Conference Room. Trustee Anstead remindedeveryoneabout registration forthe following upcoming conferences: Labour Relations Symposium, Toronto, on 2006 March30 to April 01,Canadian School Board Association 2006 Congress,Montreal, on 2006 May 25 to 27 and the 2006 Annual General Meeting (AGM )and Program,Ottawa,on 2006 June 08 to 11. b.STUDENT TRUSTEES'UPDATE _Student Trustee Moulton advised that he attended the Annual English Public Board Conference (entitled "TakingActionin Education Revolution".He noted that "Learningto Age 18"Isto be discussed at the next OSTA meeting. Student Trustee van Gaalen advised that the Student Advisory Committee continues to encourage students to run for the student tmstees election to be held on 2006 April 28. 0.APPOINTMENT TO NATIVE ADVISORY COMMITTEE The Munsee-Delaware Nation has nominated Carmen Dolsonas Itsnew representative on the Board's NativeAdvisory Committee.The following motion was adopted on motion ofJ.Stewart and J.Hunter. And resolved that Carmen Dolson be appointed to the Native Advisory Committee representing the Munsee-Delaware Nation. d.MIDDLESEX-LONDON HEALTH UNIT -PANDEMIC INFLUENZA PLAN A letter was received from Dr.Graham Pollett,Medical Officer of Health,Middlesex-London Board of Health fonwarding its Pandemic Influenza Plan for Middlesex-London. 0.THAMES VALLEY COUNCIL OF HOME AND SCHOOL ASSOCIATIONS A letter was received from K.Schleman,Vice President, and R.tisdale,Resolutions Chair, Thames Valley Council of Home and School Associations,requesting that the Board mandate First Aidand cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) trainingfor all school board employees and volunteer (e.g Lunchroom supervision). f.GREENTEC INTERNATIONAL A letter was received from Tony Perrotta,President/CEO,Greentec International,regarding its ^\ThinkGreen fundraising program. 2006 February 28...56 15.COMMUNICATIONS -cont'd g.APPOINTMENT TO NATIVE ADVISORY COMMITTEE The OKT has nominated .Mary Elijah,Ronna Doxtator and Claudine VanEvery-AIbert as its representatives on the Board's NativeAdvisory Committee.The following motion was adopted on motion of J.Stewart and J.Hunter. And resolved that Mary Elijah be appointed to the Native Advisory Committee and Roanna Doxtator and Claudine VanEvery-Albert be appointed to replace Clinton Cornelius and Linda Doxtator. 16.NOTICE OF MOTION -none 17.QUESTIONS BY MEMBERS Trustee Hunter asked for clarification regarding the process of the Capital Planning Advisory Committee established by Board motion earlier in the evening.Chair Hart explained that the Chairs' Committee will consider the membership and mandate for the Committee and bring a recommendation back to the Board on 2006 March 28. He advised that it may be necessary to establish a standing committee to address the rolling Capital Plan. 18.GOOD NEWS ITEMS -"Did you know..." Trustee Stevenson advised that on 2006 March 07,she attended the Arthur Voeden S.S.Choir (St. Thomas)and Orchestra London performance.She noted that the Choir has also showcased its talents at the EPCOTT Centre in Florida as well as various other venues. Trustee Anstead advised that on 2006 February 27 she attended the 2006 Scott Tournament of Hearts curling event held at the John Labatt Centre In London.She noted that there were hundreds of elementary school students in attendance to learn more about the sport and to provide an enthusiastic cheering section supporting the provincial curling teams on this exciting occasion. 19.ADJOURNMENT The meeting adjourned at 10:02 p.m.on motion of J.Stewart and J.Bennett. CONFIRMED; y ?^^ Chairperson 2006 February 28...57 SUMMARY OF APPROVED RECOMMENDATIONS OF 2006 FEBRUARY 28 Whereas there is a significant bodyofresearch showing that family socio-economic status Isthe strongest single predictor of educational outcomes for children,and Whereas Campaign 2000, a cross-Canada coalition working to Increase public awareness on the impact of child poverty,includes a growing number of national and provincial educational organizations,including theCanadianSchoolBoards'Association,Canadian Teachers'Federation, the NovaScotia School Boards Association,the Elementary Teachers Federation ofOntarioand the Ontario Secondary School Teachers'Federation. Be It resolved that the Thames Valley District School Board formally request that the Ontario Public School Boards' Association become a partner organization inCampaign 2000. Thatthe Boardestablish a Capital Planning Advisory Committee,in accordance with step twoofthe ten-step capital planning process as outlinedInthe government's 2005 February announcement on Good Places to Leam. That the Administration proceed with formal public consultation on the designation of Tollgate Central Public School as the French Immersion single track site inCEC East and the transfer of the English track students in Junior Kindergarten to Grade 6 to Hickson Central Public School for 2006 September. That the motion to establish an additional 91 parking spaces be referred to the 2006-07 Budget process. That the following boundary modification between East Oxford and Southside Public Schools be T 'approved with implementation for 2006 September. -The boundary of Southside Public School be modified to Include the lands east of Mill Street and north of Highway 401,and west ofthe extension ofthe current eastern boundary of Southside Public School; -Students currently attending East Oxford Public School be accommodated at Southside Public School effective September 2006;and -Students currently in grades 6 and 7 wishing to remain at East Oxford Public School be permitted to do so without transportation. That the Attendance Area for Students procedure be referred to the PolicyWorkingCommittee for review. That the Board approve for referraltothe Ministerof Education the regular 2006 - 2007 Elementary School Year Calendar,the regular 2006 - 2007^SecondarySchool Year Calendar and the modified 2006 -2007 School Year Calendar for Sir George Ross Secondary School. That $3 900 from the Thames ValleyD.S.B.2005-06 contingency fund be transferred tothe Trustee PD. line to ensure that adequate funds are available for New Trustee orientation following the next Municipal Election In November 2006. That the motions approved at the in-camera session of 2006 February 14 related to a memorandum of agreement,ratification of a tentative settlement and purchase of a data warehousing solution be approved. 2006 February 28...58 SUMMARY OF APPROVED RECOMMENDATIONS OF 2006 FEBRUARY 28 -cont'd That trustee representation for the Thames Valley District School Board for the 2006 municipal election be approved as follov^s: Elgin County 2 Middlesex County 2 Oxford County 2 City of London 6 That the contract for alarm response services be awarded to Initial Security Services. That the Board approve the donation of $150 000 to renovate the athletic fieldat South Secondary School and that the Board approve the donor's request to have the South Secondary School field renamed. And resolved that Carmen Dolson be appointed to the Native Advisory Committee representing the Munsee-Delaware Nation. And resolved that Mary Elijah be appointed to the Native Advisory Committee and Roanna Doxtator and Claudine VanEvery-Albert-be appointed to replace Clinton Cornelius and Linda Doxtator.