6/27/2006 - Regular Board MeetingTHAMES VALLEY DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD
REGULAR BOARD MEETING,PUBLIC SESSION
2006 JUNE 27,7:00 P.M.
BOARD ROOM,EDUCATION CENTRE
AGENDA
V-verbal
M -material
1.CALL TO ORDER V
2.O CANADA V
3.SPECIAL MUSICAL PRESENTATION -Dunwich-Dutton P.S,V
4.APPROVAL OF AGENDA WI
5.OFFICIAL RECORD M
6.RECOGNITIONS
a.Matthijs van Gaalen,Dan Moulton -Student Trustees V
b.Karen Button - W.John Laughlin Staff Development
and Leadership Award V
7.CONFLICTS OF INTEREST V
8.CHAIR'S ANNOUNCEMENTS V
9.DIRECTOR'S ANNOUNCEMENTS V
10.CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES
a.Regular Board Meeting,2006 May 23 M
b.Special Board Meeting,2006 June 06 M
11.REPORTS FROM THE ADMINISTRATION
a.Draft Capital Plan -Oxford County V
b.Videoconferencing Project Giencoe DHS/Norwich DHS M
c.Best Start M
d.Designation of Longwoods Holding Zone to White Oaks P.S.M
e.Ministry of Education Report on Primary Class Size M
f.2006-07 Preliminary Budget V
g.Update on Use of Contingency Funds M
h.Review of Student and Parent Expenditures M
I.TVDSB Special Education Plan 2006-2007 M
12.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES
a.Special Education Advisory Committee,2006 May 02 M
b.SEAC Chair's Summary,2006 June 12 M
c.Committee of the Whole,2006 June 13 M
d.Native Advisory Committee,2006 June 13 M
e.Bylaw Review Committee M
f.Chairs'Committee,2006 June 21 M
g.Committee of the Whole,In Camera,2006 June 27 V
13.MOTION -NOTICE OF WHICH HAS BEEN GIVEN -none
14.ADDITIONAL BUSINESS
15.COMMUNICATIONS
a.Ontario Public School Boards'Association -Update V
b.Student Trustees'Update V
c.Corporation of the City of London M
d.Steve Peters,MPP M
e.2006 Senior Achievement Awards M
f.Ontario Medal for Good Citizenship 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 JUNE 27
public session from 7:03 p.m. to 11:30 p.m.The following were In attendance:
TRUSTEES J.Hunter T.Roberts
D.Anstead P.Jaffe P.Satller
J.Bennett D.Moulton J.Stewart
A.Cartier D.Mugford L.Stevenson
G.Hart,Chair S.Peters M.van Gaalen
ADMINISTRATION AND OTHERS
B.Greene K.Havelka S.Christie
C.Murphy S.Hughes C.Dennett
M.Sereda L.Hutchlnson K.Meeson
J.Thorpe B.Tucker J.Roth
D.Blalr B.Wagner
K.Dalton K.Wilkinson
K.Bushell
Absent:J.Henty
1.CALL TO ORDER.
Board Chairperson Graham Hart called the meeting to order.
2./3.O CANADA AND MUSICAL PRESENTATION
The appreciation of the Board was extended to the DunwIch-Dutton P.S.Choir and Conductor John
Robertson for leading In the singing of C Canada and performing two musical selections.
4.APPROVAL OF AGENDA
The agenda was amended to add the Budget Advisory Committee Report of 2006 June 26 as item
12.h.and "Notice of Motion"as Item 16.The amended agenda was approved on motion of T.
Roberts and J.Stewart.
5.OFFICIAL RECORD
S.Christie,Supervisor -Corporate Services,read the following official record Into the minutes:
We regret to record the death of Ashley Daubs,a 15-year-old student at Clarke Road
Secondary School,London,on 2006 May 29,Stephanie Daubs,a 12-year-old student at
Bonaventure Meadows Public School,London, on 2006,May29,and Tammy Weaver,a 17-
year-old student at Banting Secondary School,London, on 2006 June 01.
6.RECOGNITIONS
a.STUDENT TRUSTEES
Chair Hart expressed appreciation to outgoing Student Trustees Dan Moulton and Matthijs van
Gaalen for providing a student prospective at both the municipal and provincial level and for their
commitment to the position over the past year.
Trustees Moulton and van Gaalen commented on the inclusionary atmosphere experienced at
the Board table noting that many student trustees at other boards in the province have not had
this opportunity.The students thanked the Supervisory Officers and Trustees for their help and
support during their term of office.
2006 June 27...2
6. RECOGNITIONS - cont'd '
b.W.JOHN LAUGHLIN STAFF DEVELOPMENT AND LEADERSHIP AWARD
Trustee T.Roberts,on behalf of former Thames Valley Director of Education John Laughlin,
presented Karen Button, Supervisor, System Staff Development,w/ith a commemorative gift
recognizing her selection as the 2006 recipientofthe W. John Laughlin Staff Development and
Leadership Award. Ms. Button was presented witha gift and her name will be added to the award
plaque displayed at the Education Centre.She was commended for her dedication and
leadership in providing a comprehensive staff development program for all Board staff.
7.CONFLICTS OF INTEREST -No conflicts of interest were declared.
8.CHAIR'S ANNOUNCEMENTS
Chair Hart advised that a Special Board meeting will be held on 2006 July 04 to discuss the 2006-07
Budget and the 2006-07 Special Education Plan.Trustee P.Jaffe inquired if there would be sufficient
trustees available to form and quorum and it was Indicated that there would be.Chair Hart advised
that the draft budget will be described;however, no motions are to be presented.Trustee Bennett
asked that everyone bring their previously distributed draft Special Education Plan material as well
as the hand-out to the 2006 July 04 meeting to avoid additional printing costs.
Chair Hart reported that he.Director Bryceand Executive Superintendents Greene and Thorpe met
recently with Sandra Pupatello, Ministerof Education, to discuss grants,primary class cap and the
draft Capital Plan.At that time,Ms.Pupatello was advised of the Board's concerns that it was asked
to implement a draft Capital Plan for which there is not sufficient funding. He indicated that the
Minister has not considered the draft Plan yet as onlyhalfof the school boards inthe province have
submitted their Plans.The difficulty in not being able to move forward until she has endorsed the
draft Plan was noted.\
^„/
The following motion was moved by P.Sattler,seconded by P.Jaffe and carried:
That the Chair write a letter to the Ministerof Education requesting that she provide feedback to
the TVDSB DraftCapital Plan as soon as possible, to enable the Board to proceed to the public
input phase of the capital planning process.
Trustee Sattler advised that a number of school boards are engaged inpublic consultation.However,
Minister Pupatello has indicated that it should not be Implemented until after her comments have been
received.Trustee D.Anstead questioned if the accommodation studies should be included in the
letter. Chair Hart responded that itmay be inthe Minister's response as she Is aware that guidelines
are required.Trustee Stevenson questioned ifprogram pressure points will also be Included, e.g.
French Immersion.Chair Hart indicated that the issue would be taken under consideration.
Chair Hart advised that Director Bryce was unable to attend the meeting and that Executive
Superintendent J.Thorpe would serve as Acting Director.
9.DIRECTOR'S ANNOUNCEMENTS
Exec.Supt.Thorpe requested that Executive Superintenderit B.Greene comment on Prohibitive to
Repair (PTR) Information noting the $50M a year announcement with $700M for new school
construction.K.Bushell,Manager,Facility Services,described the four schools-Lucan,MacEachren,
Plover Mills and Sweaburg Public Schools that are considered Prohibitive to Repair.Mr.Bushell
advised that the Board can provide a business case to the Ministry of Education regarding the PTR
to rebuild,relocate or retire the schools.He will bring a report to the Board In future regarding this
matter.Mr.Bushell responded to trustees'questions and suggested that itis possible to Include other
proposed PTR schools In the business plan.Exec.Supt.Thorpe clarified that "retire"means
"retirement without replacement'.,
2006 June 27...3
9.DIRECTOR'S ANNOUNCEMENTS -cont'd
Supt.8.Hughes advised Trusteesofa Ministry of Education memorandum has been received from
D.GIroux,Assistant Deputy Minister of Education,stipulating two,additional Professional
Development (PD)days forthe 2006-07schoolyear,with none to be held prior to November 15,
2006. Thames Valley had plannedto hold one In September; however,schools have been advised
to move fonward withtheir calendars but without the PD Day.The two PD days will be confimned in
the fall after further clarificationfrom the Ministry of Education has been received.Itis expected that
when confimied a cycle day will be replaced witha PD Day.
Exec.Supt.Thorpeadvisedthat Director Bryce will be delivering his year-end message tothesystem
via video.
10.CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES
a. The minutes ofthe Regular Board Meeting,2006 May23 were adopted on motionofJ. Hunter
and L.Stevenson.
b. The minutes ofthe Special Board Meeting,2006 June 06 were adopted on motionofJ. Hunter
and L.Stevenson.
11.REPORTS FROM THE ADMINISTRATION
a.DRAFT CAPITAL PLAN -OXFORD COUNTY
Exec.Supt.J. Thorpepresented an overview ofthe methodology used initially and generally by
the Capital Plan Co-ordinating Committee andsubsequentlyby all Supervisory Officers,Board-
wide,by study area,which led to the specific recommendations in the draft capital plan
submission.The process parallelsthe Ministry's intentions province-wide In the Good Places to
Learn document.It Isan attempt to bring coherence and commonalityof approach tothe major
planning Issues which all boards face In light ofthe specific accommodation Issues each faces.
Exec.Supt.Thorpe described the following rationale for the specific recommendations pertaining
to Oxford County:
-The Administration reviewed demographic data looking for trends and indications offuture
student populations which would be served In the future.In response to overall declining
enrolment,areas where,with or without the use of capital plan dollars for additions, future
student populationscould be appropriately served infewer schools were reviewed.
- Areasof growth wherenewschools could be justified based onforecastedfuture enrolment
were reviewed.
-Accommodation needs for French Immersion on the basis of a Board-wide common delivery
model of single track where feasible to further equity of approach for all students were
reviewed.
- Each school's cun'ent organization for program to determine if changes could be
recommended insupport of greater consistency and equity.If desirable and possiblewas
reviewed.
- Eachschool facility was examinedto seek opportunities forimprovementand enhancements
ofcurrentschool buildings where possible,and cost effective based onits cun-entstate and
future renewal needs,and our ability to bringituptothe Ontario Disability Actrequirements,
the various program and facility enhancements such as gymnasiums and arts instruction
areas,Primary ClassSizeand Community Usestandards, etc.,required bythe Good Places
to Learn process.
2006 June 21..A
11.REPORTS FROM THE ADMINISTRATION -cont'd
a.DRAFT CAPITAL PLAN -OXFORD COUNTY -cont'd
-While the Administration did not undertake the specific and detailed review and study which
wouldbe required ifrecommendations were to proceed tothe next stages,possible boundary
changes,and also reviewand attempt tominimizethe impact onfuture student transportation
inthe development of draft recommendations were addressed.
-The same broad criteria was applied to each study area and every school in Thames Valley
so as to allow us to report that results would be consistent,fair,equitable and objectively
applied to every area of the Board. This approach allowed that similarsituations would be
treated identically throughout the process.
Changes made to the Primary Class Size costs In consultation with iVIinistry officials Increased
the value of the Oxford area request by $765,000.00 from the total reported on 2006 February
28 which was then $20,597,000.00.
The following overview of the Oxford County area was presented:
1.The first draft five-year Capital Plan for the Oxford area proposes building one new school
which would be a consolidation of the current Drumbo Central and Princeton Central Public
Schools which are experiencing declining enrolment and whose future population could be
accommodated in one new building on the Drumbo site which has municipal services.There
are significant structural issues with the Drumbo school and the situation could most
efficientlybe addressed inthis way. The Princeton school would close.
2. Additions are proposed to four Oxford area schools:
Glendale DHS would receive an addition to accommodate grade 9 pupils who would
attend It Instead of the Annandale school which would be re-designated as a grades 7
and 8 not grades 7-9 school.This recommendation Is based on reducing program
organization anomalies where possible and desirable.
A significant program addition and program renovations are recommended for College
Avenue S.S.in Woodstock to provide enhanced technology program in the East area,
similar to that in process at Strathroy DCi,and to accommodate students from Norwich
DIHS which would cease functioning as a secondary school based on its declining
student enrolment.
Based on its current and future population needs,a major program renovation would
occur at the Thamesford Public School Includinga general arts area,a new gymnasium
and an enhanced library/resource centre.
• -Based on its current and future population needs,the HIckson school would receive a
general arts area and a new gymnasium.
The Norwich DHS building would be converted to use as a JK-8 elementary school to
serve the area currently served by three small schools whose enrolment Is also declining.
The renovated secondary facility would provide a first-class location for an elementary
school and replace three buildings which present significant challenges to bring up to
standard.The North Norwich,Non/vich and Otterville schools would close.
Program Renovations are proposed to the ingersoll DCI Science labs.
Finally,based on decliningenrolment, the Sweaburg and A.J.Baker schools would close
with their student populations re-designated to nearby elementary schools.Sweaburg
is our onlytwinnedJK-3 school with a small population.
2006 June 27...5
11.REPORTS FROM THE ADMINISTRATION -cont'd
a.DRAFT CAPITAL PLAN •OXFORD COUNTY -cont'd
Its students can be accommodated at East Oxford Central P.S.where they currently go for
grades 4-8, withoutan additionto East Oxford. A.J. Baker presents significant challenges to
upgrade to current standard and Itsfuture student enrolment can be accommodated at Zorra
Highland Park and Thamesford Public Schools without additions to those schools to
accommodate enrolment.
Mr.Thorpe summarized hisreport notingthe draftCapital Plan's recommendations forthe Oxford
area Include one new school,one addition to accommodate Increased enrolment,Program
Additions and Renovations to five schools,conversion from current use to two schools now that
you have already approved the TollgateCentral re-designation,and six closures.The total
proposed tothe Ministry of Education for Oxford Countyis $20M of $365M.
He advised that Oxford County Is the last of the updates requested by Trustees.In conclusion
he summarized by category all the proposals of the first draft Capital Plan for the system.
The submission proposes changes with a total cost of$365 553 000.00. This Isan increase of
$4 575 500.00 from the 2006 February 28 report,because of refinements made to the Primary
Class Size submission based on Ministry advice and input. Included In our submission are
proposals for:
1.6 new schools,
2.12 additions to schools for enrolment,1
3. 1 additions for program extension and enhancement,
4.10 renovations for program,
5.8 conversions of current use,and
6.21 consolidations or closures.
The Administration responded to questions posed by Trustees.In response to a question from
Trustee Stewart asking If any of the recommendations could be implemented at no cost,Supt.
Thorpe indicated it would be possible to move AJ Baker students to Thamesford, Tollgate
students to Hickson Central and Sweaburg Central students to East Oxford Central but most of
the proposals are based on the need for enhancements Inthe schools in order to maximize
student use.He indicated that the concept looked at the data holistically rather than specifically.
He felt that Thames Valley's need warrants a substantial portion of the Ministry's capital funds.
Student Trustee Moulton questioned ifthe plan Includes the anticipated growth in Woodstock
because ofthe new Toyota plant.G.Owens indicated the total population growth does not reflect
students population growthbut it will be monitored. There are no planned school reductions in
Woodstock and it is believed that any growth can be accommodated in the area.
Chair Hart questioned If Drumbo Central or Princeton Central P.S.would be pursued to be
declared prohibitive to repair.Mr.Bushell Indicated that $400B has been identified for240
schools across Ontario and that there Is value to taking a business case to the Ministry of
Education for both schools,although Dmmbo P.S.would be the preferred site.
Chair Hart questioned the costs related to servicingwellwater at schools.Mr.Bushell described
th program noting costs of $200,000 for23sitesinThames Valley.Exec.Supt.Thorpe indicated
that no school was Identified for closure because of Its water situation.
In response toa question regarding restructuring Norwich DHS toan elementaryschool,Exec.
Supt.Thorpe indicated thatthe projected population for Norwich shows a decline,thatthe four
secondary schools inWoodstock and Norwich could not be sustained based on the projected
demographics.Trustee Jaffe commented that urban schools have a smaller per pupil
expenditurethan the smaller ruralschools.
2006 June 27...6
11.REPORTS FROM THE ADMINISTRATION -cont'd
b.VIDEOCONFERENCING PROJECT GLENCOE DHS/NORWICH DHS
L.Hutchinson,Superintendent ofEducation, providedan update onthe videoconferencing project
at Glencoe and Norwich DHS. He advised that there is no direct Ministry funding for e-learning
or videoconferencing.Of those who continue In e-learning,the success rate is very high.
He noted that secondary school course delivery by video conferencing was tested last fall at
Glencoe and Non/vich DHS.The pilot test showed positive results and the project moved into the
full Implementation stage in second semester.Asenior grade 12 universitylevelHistorycourse
was offered.The course was regularly scheduled at Glencoe and was offered via Interactive
television to students at Non/vlch.Five students were originally enrolled at Non/vlch.One has
since dropped out and itIs likely four will get the credit. The teacher was located at Glencoe and
she Interacted bye-mail and video with the students at Non/vlch.Routines were established at
Nonvlch around attendance and daily assignment transmission.The students took full
responsibilityfor these tasks and they were completed efficiently and effectively. They have
reported Informally thatthey liked the Independence,the novelty,andthe responsibilityassociated
with videoconferencing methodology. No serious issues withthe equipment were encountered
and the students seem satisfied with the experience.The teacher was well chosen for the project
and It was through her expertise and Ingenuity that things went so well.
Supt. Hutchinson explained that the only Issues encountered throughout the project had to do
withthe disparity In timebetween the dailyschedules ofGlencoe and Norwich.The schools have
time structures that are approximately 50 minutes apart and this necessitated Glencoe running
the course during a lunch hour. This caused issues for both the students and teacher.He
advised that unless a school can be found that has a schedule closer to that of Glencoe,Itwill
not be possible for Itto be Involved inthe project again.
Currently,all of the schools have been offered the chance to become Involved inthe project In
the coming year.To date,only Glencoe DHS and West Elgin SS have indicated an Interest.
Supt. Hutchinson advised that their schedules may be more compatible.The Principals have
been requested to confer about courses and registrations and to get back to him.There may be
some talk that the project Isoccurring between Norwichand Glendale but there is nothing formal
yet. The cost of the project Is$70 000. Supt. Hutchinsonplans to attend an upcoming meeting
to encourage schools to participate inthe program notinga cost of$25 000 per site to expand.
c.BEST START
Exec. Supt.Greene introduced a report seeking Board approval to develop Best Start sites at
White Oaks,Sir John A.MacDonald,Evelyn Harrison and Trafalgar Public Schools pending
acceptable legal agreements forthe development,construction and operation of these daycare
sites.
He noted that he.Director Bryce and Manager Bushell recently attended a meeting with Cityof
London officials. It has approved the development of Best Start daycare sites within the City,
whereas,Elgin,Middlesexand Oxford counties have decided to suspend the Best Start Initiative.
Intotal,the Thames Valley District School Board has been allocated 224 daycare spaces at the
above noted locations.These spaces would accommodate Infant,toddler,preschool and
Junior/Senior Kindergarten children.The proposal would allow for the construction and/or
renovation of these schools to develop daycare spaces and to operate these centres at no cost
to the Board.
Detailed legal agreements will need to be developed outliningthe development,construction and
operation of these centres as soon as possible.
2006 June 27...7
11.REPORTS FROM THE ADMINISTRATION -cont'd
c.BEST START -cont'd
The City has indicated theneedto develop the White Oaks Public Schoolsite by2006 September
01whichwouldrequirespecialconsideration in place ofthelegal agreement beinginplace. The
City has indicated thatthey would provide v^n-itten authorization and guarantees In placeofthe
agreements to allowthis location to proceed immediately.
The Best Start Daycare sites are to be developed and operate at no cost to the Board. The
estimated construction budget forfour(4) Best Start sites is$1 900 000. The White Oaks Public
School Best Start Daycare is to be operationalby2006 September 01 with the other sites to be
operational by2007 September.
RECOMMENDATION:
That the Board approve in principlethe development of Best Start sites at White Oaks, Sir
John A.MacDonald, EvelynHarrison and Trafalgar Public Schools pending acceptable legal
agreements forthe development, construction and operation of these sites at no cost to the
Board.
It was noted that the funding comes from the Federal government to the Provincial government
to the municipalities. Even though the funding has been curtailed bythe Federal government,
Initial commitments have been honoured in the City of London for the first 4 of 16 anticipated
sites.Elgin,Oxford and Middlesex Counties have decided not to pursue participation in the
program.In response toa concernraised byTrusteeRoberts,Manager Bushell confirmed that
traffic flow and parking will be carefully monitored and that these types of expenses are to be
funded through the program.
Supt.Hutchlnson responded toquestions posed by trustees.Therecommendationwas adopted
on motion of D.Anstead and P.Sattler.
d.DESIGNATION OF LONGWOODS HOLDING ZONE TO WHITE OAKS P.S.
Exec. Supt. Thorpe presented a report seeking Board approval to implement a boundary
designationforthe Longwoods Holding Zone (maps were provided).
The area of Longwoods (also known as Copperfield) is currently designated to Ashley Oaks
Public School JK-6 and White Oaks Public School grades 7 and 8.The area is a new residential
development and currently no students attend Ashley Oaks Public School.
The recommendation,approved byCommittee of the Whole on 2006 June 12 to make Ashley
Oaks Public School and Rick Hansen Public School JK-8 facilities will open space at White Oaks
Public School to accommodate the new development in one facility as opposed to splittingthis
new community intotwoelementary schools.
Since the development has Just begun, this designation can be made withoutimpactingcurrent
students.
RECOMMENDATION:
That effective immediately the holding zones of Longwoods currently designated toAshley
Oaks PublicSchool (JK-6)and WhiteOaks PublicSchool (7 &8) be designated to White
Oaks Public School JK-8.
The recommendation was adopted on a motion moved by J. Bennett and seconded by T.
Roberts.
2006 June 27...8
11.REPORTS FROM THE ADMINISTRATION -cont'd
e.MINISTRY OF EDUCATION REPORT ON PRIMARY CLASS SIZE
Exec.Supt.Thorpe introduced a reportthat reviewed the Report tothe Ministry of Education on
Primary ClassSize entitled "2006-07 PCSPlan-Board Input"and "2006-07 PCSPlan-Board
Statistics".
K.Dalton,Superintendent of Education,described the Ministry of Education initiative and
calculations explaining thatthe Ministry has informed all District boardsofeducationthattheyare
required to file a report outlining theirboard'splantoaddress Primary ClassSize In each oftheir
elementaryschools forthe 2006-07 schoolyear. Each school is required to input the class
organization for 2006September01 basedon current registration numbers and organization of
students into allocated classes.This is a preliminaryreport that is required by 2006 July 14 in
order for funding to be forwarded to District School boards. This reportdoes not precludethe
official 2006October31 reportand mustbe completed based oncurrentregistrationsratherthan
projections.A "holdback"of staff (to be allocated in September)is allowable but must be
indicated in the reportif full funding isto be fonvarded to the Boardof Education.
The Ministry of Education's calculated targetsfornumberofexpected primary classes is required
in order to receive full funding for elementary teachers.Ministry of Education requires the report
to be filed by 2006 July 14.
Supt.Dalton advisedthat 114.8teachers are requiredinthe Primary Division thisyear. She
advised that 985.65 teachers are required inthe Board to qualifyfor the funding inthe Primary
division noting that 76.09 percent of primary classes have met the MOE target of 20:1.Itis not
possible totaketeachersoutofthe Junior/lntennediate division tomeetthe 975.65 number.
The Ministry has announceda newtargetof 100 percentof classes at23orless. Thereare 33
classes Inthe Board with 15 or less children, many ofthem JK/SK classes.Ms.Dalton indicated
that a decision will have to be made in future to meet the target as Ministryfunding will not be
provided for small primary classes of this size. She highlighted theaveragePCS from 2003-04
to 2006-07 notingthat in 2003-04, 66 more teachers were added than funded.She described
two scenarios to reach the funding point noting a discrepancy in funding from the Ministry
expectations.It wassuggestedthatthese scenarios anddatabeshared with OPSBA.
The following motion was movedbyT. Roberts seconded byP. Jaffe and carried.
That a letter be sent to the Ministry of Education regarding the Primary Class Size initiative
advisingthat the newrules will resultin significant additional cost tothe Boardto implement
the program.
Exec.Supt. Greene indicateda shortfall of full implementation will be prepared forthe2006July
04 Special Board Meeting,anticipated tobe $1.4M plus the accommodation costs in 2006-07.
Chair Hart commended Supt. Daltonfor her workon this initiative.
f.2006-07 PRELIMINARY BUDGET
Exec.Supt. Greene described the 2006-07 preliminary budget. Abudget meetingisscheduled
for2006 August22and Boardapprovalon2006August29forsubmissiontothe Ministry by2006
August31.Henotedno program cutsare anticipated.Teachers havebeen allocated according
to Ministry of Education funding plusothersas approved bythe Board.No layoffs are anticipated.
Itwas noted that a long-term fundingsolution will be needed for some funding problems,(e.g.
Primary Class Size).
Exec.Supt.Greene noted changestothegrantsandthe new funding model.Manager Bushell
presented an overview ofCapital Plan items.Someofthe challenges included Special Education
salaries upto benchmark,andrevenues down;PRE dueto funding changes, 2percentincrease
in utilities not sufficient, declining enrolment,cost to maintain surplus capacity, and additional
unfunded teaching staff. Itis anticipatedthat an $8.5M surplus will help offsetthe additional
expenditures.
2006 June 27...9
11.REPORTS FROM THE ADMINISTRATION -cont'd
g.UPDATE ON USE OF CONTINGENCY FUNDS
Exec. Supt.Greene provided the following status report on the 2005-06 contingency surplus.
At the 2005 November 22 Board meeting,Trustees approved the umbrella proposal for the
allocation of the 2005-06 contingency surplus as follows:
a.$2.0M to schools for projects approved by the principal after consultation with the School
Council. To be distributed equitably according to PTE.
b. $1.0M to District-wide priorities, e.g.,Safe Schools,Mental Health,Partnerships for
Excellence,Oxford Technical Training Centre expansion.Library Resources.
c. $.5M toward the Computer Implementation Plan.
d. $1 .OM for Literacyand Numeracy initiatives to enhance school growth plans resultingfrom
the Education Quality and AccountabilityOffice (EQAO)results.
e. $.6M Contingency Fund.
At the 2005 December 20 Board meeting,the Trustees approved the allocation of the $1.0M
district-wide priorities as follows:
Library (non-rural)$ 265000
Mental Health 200 000
Music Instruments (repair/replacement)200 000
Partnerships forExcellence(3 positions In 2006/07) 185 000
Safe Schools 100 000
Environmental Education (end user fees)40 000
Oxford Technical Training Centre 10 000
TOTAL $1 000 000
The schedules that provided a status report on the expenditures as of 2006 June were reviewed.
It was noted that some commitments may extend into the 2006-07 budget year.Any
uncommitted funds will be available to assist with the 2006-07 budget.
Exec. Supt. Greene responded to trustees'questions. Supt. Thorpe reported on the use of
school funds.Chair Hart requested a report on how the funds were spent.
h.REVIEW OF STUDENT AND PARENT EXPENDITURES
Exec. Supt. Thorpe presented the report regarding the recommendations made at the 2006
October 11 Committee ofthe Whole meeting fromthe AdHoc Committee to Review Student and
Parent Expenditures.Asa result,the following Infonnation was provided:
1. A committee consisting of Elementary and Secondary School Administrators was
established,met and reviewed this AdHoc Committee's report.The Administrators involved
were Janice Beckett,Jill Giimore,Martha Foster and Paula Greenberg.
Throughan on-linesurveycreated byResearch and Assessment Services,information was
gatheredon exemplary practicesandprocesses In placetosupportstudentsinneed. Some
of the key points from this survey are:
•approximately 10%ofstudents inthe TVDSB require financial assistance to participate
in school programs or activities;
2006 June 27...10
11.REPORTS FROM THE ADMINISTRATION -cont'd
h.REVIEW OF STUDENT AND PARENT EXPENDITURES -cont'd
• at the secondary level,this financial assistance involvesthe waivingof student,course
or club/team fees;
• at the elementary level,thisfinancial assistance consists ofhelping students so thatthey
can participate inschool programs or activities such as presentations;
•costs outlinedbyadministrators includecosts for extracurricular activities such as field
trips and athletics/clubs;costs for curriculum activities such as assemblies;course
materials,student fees and uniforms for physical education;and additional costs such
as planners,medication,food and clothing;
• to support these expenses,schools participate In school wide or group specificfund
raisingsuch as tuck shops,hotlunches, bake sales;make requests forfunds fromlocal
service clubs;make request forfunds from Home and School,PTAor School Council;
use GST rebates,photo rebates,and vending machine sales;
additional comments provided by the respondents surveyed indicate that the
Administrators findways to ensure that any no child will not attend a field trip based on
a lack of funds;costs /fees are offset by another source which the Administrator finds,
and that the overall approach is one based on equity of opportunity.
2. The Executive Superintendent of Operations Services has undertaken a reviewof the current
Board and Department policies,procedures and memoranda as per his entry plan shared
with school Administrators in 2005 November.
3. Areview offund raising activity across the Board did not identify significant conflicts between
school and system level activities.There is no fund raising program at the Community of
Schools level. Principals will be asked bytheir Superintendents of Education to continue to
monitor numbers and timing of fund raising activities authorized at the school level.The
number of system-level authorized activities is limited and closely monitored.
4.The Director has communicated the Board's support for the Thames Valley Education
Foundation's role,as proposed bythe FeasibilityStudy, in supporting a number ofactivities
related to school-based fund raising.The Foundation was appreciative of the Board's
support.
5. The Executive Superintendent of Human Resource Services has communicated withthe
members of the District School Council.In the fallof 2006,they will be discussing exemplary
practices and fund raising procedures at District School Counciland Area Councilmeetings
as well as gathering information from School Councils regarding fund raising practices for
presentation to TVDSB Trustees.
6.The Director has advised the Thames Valley Education Foundation of the Board's request
that the Foundation establish a bursary program with specified purposes.The Foundation
does not yet have sufficient discretionary funds to consider funding such a bursary; however,
when funds permit, the Board request will be given appropriate consideration.
7. The Executive Superintendent of Operations Services prepared a followup report on the
above recommendations to the Board by 2006 June.
8.The Ad Hoc Committee to Review Student and Parent Expenditures has been thanked for
its work and has now been disbanded.
2006 June 27...11
11.REPORTS FROM THE ADMINISTRATION -cont'd
h.REVIEW OF STUDENT AND PARENT EXPENDITURES -cont'd
Trustee P.Jaffe questioned the ability of needy students to attend school trips.Exec.Supt.
Thorpe Indicated there Isa reduction In extensive elementary school trips inan effort to relieve
the costs to students.Student Trustee D. Moulton advised that there is significant pressure for
students to fund classroom expenses and there are always students having difficulty meeting
these expenses that will not come forward. It was suggested that this information be shared with
the Thames Valley Education Foundation and other support groups of the Board.
12.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES
a.REPORT OF THE SPECIAL EDUCATION ADVISORY COMMITTEE 2006 IVlay 02
12:15 a.m.-2:55 p.m.
Members
R.Tisdale,Thames Valley District School P. Glllls,Integration Action for Inclusion London
Council (Chair)Chapter (lAI)(+12:40)
L.Stevenson,Trustee A.Cralg,Learning Disabilities Association -London
B.Hoffman,Autism Society Ontario Region (LDA-LR)
London and District (+12:47)B. Montminy,Madame Vanier Children's Services
Christine Thammavongsa,Association for C. DeKelver,Ontario Association for Families of
BrightChildren (Thames Valley) Children with Communication Disorders
S. Wilson, Community Living London, B. Booking,Thames Valley Children's Centre (-1:00 +
Oxford,Elgin,Middlesex 2:50)
A.Morse,Easter Seal Society D.Root,Thames Council of Homeand School
B.Harvey,Epilepsy Support Centre Association
M.Barbeau,VOICE
Administration and Others
P.Cook,OPC -Elementary Principal M.Hubert,Corporate Services Assistant
C.MacDonald B.Tucker,Superintendent of Education
J.VanBommel,Secondary Principal B.Noble,Learning Supervisor
Regrets:D.Ensing
Absent:D.Anstead,P.Sattler,J.Laderoute,G.McGahey,A.Loebus
Guests:J.Bennett,M.Franklin
1.CALL TO ORDER
The meeting was called to order at 12:15 p.m. in the London Room at the Education Centre.
All present Introduced themselves.
2.CONFIRMATION OF AGENDA
"E.A.Labour Update"was added as item 5.Item 7,"Partnerships for Excellence (PFE),was
removed.The remainder of the agenda was renumbered accordingly and confirmed as
amended on a motion by L.Stevenson.
3.CONFLICTS OF INTEREST
No conflicts of Interest were declared.
4.REPORT OF MEETING FROM 2006 APRIL 10
The report was approved as printed on a motion by M.Barbeau.
2006 June 27...12
12.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd
a.REPORT OF THE SPECIAL EDUCATION ADVISORY COMMITTEE -cont'd
5.E.A.LABOUR UPDATE
Superintendent Tucker provided an update regarding tlie status oflabournegotiations with
Educational Assistants (EAs)stating that unless an agreement was reached,work sanctions
would begin on Thursday,2006 May04.
Mr.Tucker described strategies for coping with the strike with a minimum of disruption to
students.He explained a pian to spiit classes and hire extra occasionai teachers thereby
lowering the teacher/student ratio and aiiowing students tocontinuetheir programs without
Educational Assistants.He stated that,in extreme cases,parents have been asked to attend
totheirownchild'sspecial needs,send a personal support workertothe school or keep their
children at home.Additional costs to families may be eligible for reimbursement.
Transportation wiii continue to be provided.
Concern was expressed that the communication to parents did not specify the Board's
contingency plans. Itwas indicated that a foiiow-up letterfrom Principals to parents ofthe
affected students as well as a press release would clarify the matter.
Superintendent Tucker responded to questions.
6.SPECIAL EDUCATION PLAN
B. Noble, Learning Supervisor,provided a synopsis ofadditions and changes to the Special
Education Pian to date,indicating that the changes were mostly housekeeping and/or
cosmetic.The revisions were discussed and comments noted.
The issue of warrantees,service agreements and replacement costs for equipment
purchased under the Intensive Support Amount (ISA)agreement was discussed.Itwas
requested that a fact sheet outlining this information and including instructionsfor making
claims be made available for parents and principals.
Superintendent Tucker discussed the anticipated time-line for approval of the 2006 Plan.
Updated sections will be e-mailedtocommitteemembers forreviewas theyare completed,
it was requested that input be sent to J.Parker at i.Darker@tvdsb.on.ca as revisions are
received.Itis anticipated that the revised Pian will be presented to SEAC for approval at the
2006 June 06 meeting.
6.1 Special Education Staffing Update
B.Noble reported that Special Education staffing has been completed inthe secondary
panel and elementary Round 1.There wiii be 12 LearningCoordinators in2006/07 and
interviews for those positions are in progress.
6.2 Special Education Budget Update
The Special Education budget is expected to be developed by the end of 2006 May.
7.SEAC UPDATES
7.1 Focus Group Update
It was reported that the last meeting of the focus group examining the role and
effectiveness of SEAC was attended mostly by previous committee representatives.
Summary reports of the first and second meetings have been completed and it is
anticipatedthat a consolidatedreportofthe three groupmeetings will be presented at
the 2006 September SEAC meeting. A sub-group is working with P. Robinson,
Research &Assessment,to include recommendations to SEAC as part of the final
report.
2006 June 27...13
12.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd
a.REPORT OF THE SPECIAL EDUCATION ADVISORY COMMITTEE -cont'd
7.SEAC UPDATES -cont'd
7.2 CODE Project(s)Update
An update on the progress of the NILE Project (Numeracy Inclusion and Literacy at
Eastdale) was provided.Training plannedforthe monthof2006 Mayincludesa Blind
and Low Vision Workshop,a Hearing Impaired Workshop and training for Crisis
Prevention Intervention (CPI)staff. Itis expected that CODEfunding will continue for
another year.
7.2 CODE Project(s)Update
7.3 Dates/Times of Future Meetings -2006/2007
Atthe 2005 April 05 meeting, SEAC passed the following motion:
That for the twelve-month period ending in 2006 June,the meeting schedule
accommodate three or four evening meetings,the effectiveness of which will be
evaluated by 2006 June 06. Based on the evaluation, a recommendation will be
made as to the time of the meetings for the next three-year term effective 2007
January 01.
In keeping with that motion,several evening meetings were held between 2005
September and 2006 Mayand the evaluations analysed.The results indicated that half
of the committee preferred daytime and half preferred evening meetings.Further, of
those that prefen-ed evening meetings, halfpreferred to start the meetings at 5:00 p.m
and half preferred 7:00 p.m.
Trustee Stevenson moved the following motion:
That beginningIn2007 January, SEACmovetoevening meetings beginningat 7:00
p.m. on the firstMondayofevery month.
The motion was discussed and B.Harvey moved the following amendment:
That beginning with a daytimemeeting in2006 September,SEAC alternate between
daytime and evening meetings throughout the next school year.
Following a lengthy discussion,Trustee Stevenson moved a further amendment as
follows:
That SEAC meetings be 50%evening and 50% daytime beginning in 2006
September and forthe entirethree-year term ofthe newSEAC.
The Chair called the question and the final motion was carried as amended.
A schedule of tentative dates and times will be provided for discussion at the 2006 June
06 meeting.
8.COMMITTEE UPDATES
8.1 Communications -none
9.CORRESPONDENCE
9.1 Special Education Newsletter
The 2006 April edition ofthe Special Education Newsletter was received.
2006 June 27...14
12.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd
a.REPORT OF THE SPECIAL EDUCATION ADVISORY COMMITTEE -cont'd
10.FORUM:ASSOCIATION UPDATES
S. Wilson,Community Living London,described a presentation byNew Vision Advocates for
Grade 6, 7 and 8 students.Presented by people who have intellectual disabilities, the
presentation is interactive with questions and exercises that teach students to accept all
people regardless of their abilities,it is available to schools at no cost by contacting
Community Living London.
The annual general meeting ofthe AutismSociety will be held on 2006 June 08 at the Hilton
London 300 King St.
11.FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS
October Reports -lEPs
Destinations/Pathways
-F.A.S.T.
- System Committee:TrackingStudents after Leaving Secondary School
-Re-Connect
Meeting dates ×
lEP sub-committee
Inclusion sub-committee report
Partnerships for Excellence
12.ADJOURNMENT
The 2006 June 06 meeting was reschedule to Monday 2006 June 12 at 7:00 p.m.
The meeting adjourned at 2:55 p.m. on a motion byC. DeKelver.
R.TISDALE,
Chairperson
b.SPECIAL EDUCATION ADVISORY COMMITTEE CHAIR'S SUMMARY 2006 June 12
The following are highlightsof the Special Education Advisory Committee meeting held on 2006
June 12.Afull report will be presented to the Board at the 2006 September 12 meeting.
SPECIAL EDUCATION TRANSFORMATION
Areport to the Ministry of Education called "Special EducationTransformation, the report ofthe
Co-Chairs with the Recommendations of the Working Table on Special Education",has been
released and isavailable on the Ministry of Education website under Special Education/Resource
Documents.The report addresses issues such as IPRC's,dispute resolution procedures,and
changes to the lEP process.
SPECIAL EDUCATION PLAN
Special Education Staffing Update
Superintendent Tucker presented a draftofSpecial Education Plan Section 2.11,"Special
Education Staff,stating that the figures have been prepared in the absence of budget
information and remain preliminary untila budget announcement is received.He Indicated
that no changes are anticipated inthe elementary panel and outlined proposed adjustments
on the secondary side. Itwas noted that the Plan must be presented and approved bythe
Boardbytheend of2006 June and submittedtothe Ministry of Education bythe end of2006
July. It was agreed that staff reductions,if needed when the budget announcement is
received,are to be discussed at SEAC priorto Implementation.
r'
2006 June 27...15
12.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd
b.SPECIAL EDUCATION ADVISORY COMMITTEE CHAIR'S SUMMARY -cont'd
Special Education Budget Update
Superintendent Tucker explained that funding pressures such as new contracts,teachers'salaries,
a new funding formula,and declining enrolment will negatively affect the Special Education budget.
He stated that to date there has been no budget announcement from the Ministry of Education
making it necessary for the Plan to be approved by SEAC and presented to the Board with
preliminary budget figures.
Following a brief discussion.A.Morse,Easter Seal Society,moved the following motion:
That SEAC approve the Special Education Plan for the year 2006-07 with extreme caution
inview of the fact that the Ministryof Education has not provided the Board with 2006-07
grant information.
The Chair called the question and the motion was carried.
It was clarified that the words "extreme caution"were included in the motion because,given the
funding pressures affecting Special Educationand the absence ofbudget projectionsfor2006-07.
SEAC is concemed with the Board's ability to implement the Special Education Plan.
Superintendent Tucker stated that, ifnecessary,he will consult withthe Chairabout callinga special
meeting ofSEACbetween June and September to discuss any changes tothe Plan orcommunicate
Information to SEAC members electronically.
R.TISDALE,
SEAC Chair
c.REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE 2006 June 13
7:00 p.m.-11:09 p.m.
MEMBERS
G.Hart,Chair
D.Anstead
J.Bennett
A.Cartler
J.Henry
P.Jaffe
D.Moulton
S.Peters
T.Roberts
P.Sattler
L.Stevenson
J.Stewart
M.van Gaalen
ADMINISTRATION AND OTHERS
B. Bryce
B.Greene
M.Sereda
J.Thorpe
D.Blair
K.Dalton
J.Empringham
K.Havelka
S.Hughes
L.Hutchlnson
B.Tucker
B.Wagner
K.Wilkinson
S.Christie
C.Dennett
G.Owens
J.Roth
W.Scott
Regrets:D.l\/lugford,J. Hunter
Chair Hart welcomed everyone to the meeting.
1.APPROVAL OF AGENDA
The agenda was reordered moving "Capital Plan - Middlesex County^to Item 5,
"ReorganizationofAshleyOaks/RickHansen P.S."toItem6and Tollgate/Hickson Transition
Committee ReporT to Item7and renumbered accordingly. The amended agenda was moved
by L.Stevenson and carried.
2006 June 27...16
12.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd
c.REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE -cont'd
2.CONFLICTS OF INTEREST - No conflicts of interest were declared.
3.LAWSON LITERARY AWARD PRESENTATIONS
Rena Princis,Co-ordinator Development Officer, Public Affairs & Community Relations,
provided opening remarks regardingthe Lawson Literary Award competition.The following
Grade 7 and 8 winners of the 2006 Lawson LiteraryAward were introduced by Ms. Princis.
Colonel T. Lawson,Chairperson G. Hart, and Director of Education B. Bryce presented the
awards.
Colonel Lawson extended congratulations to this year's winners for their outstanding
contribution. The Director expressed appreciation to the Lawson family for continuing to
sponsor the award that inspires excellence by encouraging students to research and write
about great Canadian heroes as well as their personal perspectives on Canadian issues of
interest.
Student School Family of
Schools
Grace Carruthers Caradoc South P.S.Glencoe DHS.
Clare Church Emily Carr P.S.Banting S.S.
Katharine Crelghton Byron Somerset P.S.Saunders S.S.
Melissa Cunningham Oxbow P.S.Medway S.S.
Julia Cutt Clara Brenton P.S.Oakrldge S.S.
Sara England Wortley Road P.S.South S.S.
Jai Hebel Masonville P.S.Lucas S.S.
Allison Hill Harris Heights P.S.Ingersoll DCI
Stephanie Kerkvliet New Sarum P.S.Parkside Cl.
Kaley Lewis North Meadows P.S.Strathroy DCI.
HollyO'Neil Oxbow P.S.Medway S.S.
Shahrzad Pooya Kensal Park French Immersion P.S.Laurier S.S.
Andrea Stewart Princess Anne French Immersion P.S.Clarke Road S.S.
Danielle Suzuki Princeton Central P.S.Huron Park S.S.
Devo Trower St.George's P.S.Central S.S.
AlexTumanov Masonville P.S.Lucas S.S.
Erin Waite Huron Heights French Immersion P.S.Montcalm S.S.
Andrew Wood Trafalgar P.S.Beal S.S.
Emily Wyatt Huron Heights French Immersion P.S.Montcalm S.S.
4.CHAIRPERSON'S ANNOUNCEMENTS -none
5.CAPITAL PLAN -MIDDLESEX COUNTY
J.Thorpe,Executive Superintendent,Operation Services,presented an overview of the
methodology used initially and generally by the Capital Plan Co-ordinating Committee and
subsequently by all Supervisory Officers, by study area,which led to the specific
recommendations in the draft capital plan submission.The process parallels the Ministry's
intentions province-wide In the Good Places to Leam document.It Is an attempt to bring
coherence and commonality of approach to the major planning issues which all boards face
inlightof the specific issues each board faces.Following the overview,Supt.Thorpe focused
specifically on the recommendations for the Middlesex area co-ordinating his remarks with
map references prepared by Planning OfficerG.Owens.
2006 June 27...17
12.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd
c.REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE -cont'd
5.CAPITAL PLAN -MIDDLESEX COUNTY -cont'd
He noted the following considerations Indeveloping the recommendations pertinent to the
Middlesex area.
•The Administrationreviewed demographic data lookingfor trends and Indicationsoffuture
student populationswhichwouldbe served inthefuture. In response to overall declining
enrolment,the Administration Initialiy looked for areas where,with or without the use of
capital plan dollars foradditions,future student populations couldbe appropriately served
in fewer schools.
• Areas of growth where new schools could be justified based on forecasted future
enrolment were reviewed.
•Accommodation needs for French Immersion on the basis of a Board-wide common
delivery modelofsingletrackwherefeasibletofurtherequityofapproach forallstudents
were reviewed.
• Each school's current organization for program to determine If changes could be
recommended In support of greater consistency and equity,if desirable and possible were
reviewed.
Each school facility was examined to seek opportunities for improvement and
enhancements of current school buildings where possible and cost effective based on Its
current state and future renewal needs,and based on our ability to bring it up to the
Ontario Disability Actrequirements,thevariousprogramand facility enhancements such
as gymnasiums and arts Instruction areas,Primary Class Size and Community Use
standards,etc., required by the Good Places to Leam process.
• While the Administration did not undertake the specific and detailed review and study
whichwouldbe required Ifrecommendations were to proceed to the next stages,we did
address possible boundary changes were addressed and reviewed In an attempt to
minimize the Impact on future student transportation in the development of draft
recommendations.
• The same broad criteria was applied to each study area and every school in Thames
Valley so as to allow thatthe results would be consistent,fair,equitable and objectively
applied to every area ofour Board.This approach provided reassurance that similar
situations would be treated identically throughout the process.
Changes madetothe Primary ClassSizecosts In consultation with Ministry officials have
increased the value of the Middlesex area request by $680,000 from the total reported on
2006 February 28 which wasthen $33,691,000.The following overview of Middlesex County
was presented.
Mr.Thorpeadvisedthatthe first,draft,five-year Capital Planforthe Middlesex area proposes
building onenewschool which would bea consolidation ofthe current Junior Kindergarten to
Grade3 (JK-3)Lucan P.S.andtheGrades4 to8 Biddulph Central P.S.southof Lucan into
one JK to Grade 8 school to serve the same population In one new building,likely on the
Lucansite.The Biddulph school would close. Itis anticipated that the Lucanschool will be
designated bythe Ministry as prohibitlve-to-repair.
20Q6 June27...18
12.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd
c.REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE -cont'd
5.CAPITAL PLAN -MIDDLESEX COUNTY -cont'd
The rationale for this recommendation to consolidate is based on the following three Identified
criteria:
• reducing overallnumbers of schools operated;
• attracting fundingfor new construction where justified;and
•producing greater consistencyofprogram delivery models.
Additionsare proposed to five Middlesex area schools. The firsttwo would accommodate
current enrolment and projected enrolment,and enhance program opportunities at Medway
and Strathroysecondary level schools.Following the Board's recent approval,design work
Isproceeding on those twoprojects. Recommended additionsand Improvementsat River
Heightsand NorthdaleCentral Public Schools in Dorchester would allowfora rationalization
ofprogram deliveryfromthe current JK-3and Grades 4-8 modeltotwoJK-8 schools sen/ing
the current area.Some pupils would be re-designated to Northdale Central from Leesboro
Central P.S.which would close.
An addition Is proposed for the Caradoc Central school which would accommodate resident
pupilsand those redirectedthere from Caradoc South P.S.whichwouldclose. The latterhas
been identified by the Ministry as prohibitive to repair. Centennial Central would be re-
deslgnated as a single-trackEnglishprogram school fromitscurrent dual-track status with its
French Immersion pupils reassigned to Northdale P.S. In London when Its addition is
completed.This is a similar process to the Tollgate Central change already In process and
provides a single-track French Immersionprogramforthe portionof the Middlesexarea now
assigned to Centennial Central. Should this recommendation proceed,there would be a
boundary reviewfor French Immersion which would determine the best and most convenient
future boundaries for Middlesex area French Immersion pupils.
Finally,twoadditional,small elementary schools whose populations are projected to decline,
McGlllivray Central and Metcalfe Central Public Schools,would close with their students
reassigned to nearby elementary schools whichcould accommodate them without additions
beyond those already mentioned.
In summary,the first draft five-year Capital Plan's recommendations for the Middlesex area
include one new school,five additions to existing schools,one conversion of current use,and
five closures.
The Administration responded to questions posed by Trustees.Trustee Peters asked why
McGillvray Central, a school withhigh Education Qualityand AccountabilityOffice (EQAO)
test scores,is being considered for closure.Supt.Thorpe advised that the five-year, draft
Capital Plan relates to the physical condition/state of school buildings as well as enrolment
figures only. The scholastic outcomes/performance of students within these schools was not
used as a factor in the planning process and,therefore.Is not part of any Board-wide
recommendations.
Planning OfficerOwens highlighted the rural areas where enrolment Is decliningalso noting
the areas that are experiencing residential grovi/th because ofnew housing developments (e.g.
Kilworth,Dorchester,Thorndale).Supt.Thorpe stated that the Board has already addressed
the real grovi<rth Issues In MiddlesexCounty by approving additions and enhancements to
Oxbow (llderton).Parkview (Komoka)and North Meadows (Strathroy)PublicSchools.
2006 June 27...19
12.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd
c.REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE •cont'd
5.CAPITAL PLAN -MIDDLESEX COUNTY -cont'd
6.REORGANIZATION OF ASHLEY OAKS AND RICK HANSEN PUBLIC SCHOOLS
Trustee Anstead presented the report on the reorganization of Ashley Oaks and Rick
Hansen Public Schools consistent with the request from the two school communities and
as a follow-upto the recommendations of the Capital Planning process,to reorganize the
two schools to the Junior Kindergarten -Grade 8 (JK-8)model of program delivery.
Through the process of the draft Capital Plan development,it became apparent that the
impact ofdecliningenrolment inthe White Oaks area ofthe CityofLondonwould allowfor
grade 7 and 8 pupils to be accommodated in their home schools,without major impact on
the facilities,rather than continue to be assigned to White Oaks Public School for grades
7 and 8.
Following public consultation on 2006 April26, It was recommended that this change be
implemented.It has been supported generally In the communities and seen as a positive
move for all three schools affected:Ashley Oaks,Rick Hansen and White Oaks Public
Schools.
RECOMMENDATIONS
1.That effective 2007 September 01 for Grade 7 pupils,and 2008 September 01 for
Grade 8 pupils,Ashley Oaks and Rick Hansen Public Schools be re-designated JK-8
schools.
2.That a transition team (or teams if appropriate)be established by the Superintendent
of Education for the schools affected to facilitate the Implementation of these
recommendations and to report findings to the Board by the end of 2007 February.
The recommendations were moved by D.Anstead and carried.
7.TOLLGATE/HICKSON TRANSITION COMMITTEE REPORT
Supt. Thorpe provided an update of the Tollgate / Hickson Transition Committee
established by Board motion on 2006 March 28.
The following motion was approved at the Board meeting of 2006 March 28;
"That Administration conduct a formal boundary review of the currentTollgate Central
Public School catchment area,including a survey of all parents of current English
program students,and develop recommendations for future boundaries and
placements for the current English program students for 2006 September 01;the
Administration Is to report back to the Board by the end of 2006 May."
"That a transition team of Tollgate Central Public School/Hlckson Central Public
School parents,administrators,and trustees be established by the Superintendents
of Education for both schools to facilitate the relocation of the Tollgate Central Public
English students and to report itsfindings and recommendations to the Board bythe
end of 2006 May."
2006 June 27...20
12.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd
c.REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE -cont'd
7.TOLLGATE/HICKSON TRANSITION COMMITTEE REPORT-cont'd
As a result, the Tollgate/Hickson Transition Committee was created with the following
membership:
Tollaate Public School:
Principal, Marion Holgate
School Council representatives Angela Geerlinks,Nell Langlois,Darlene Pretty, Louisa
Russell (alternate)
Hickson Central Public School
Principal,Helder Goulart
School Council/Home &School representatives Brenda Amott,Val Jones,VickieWilkinson
Superintendents of Education Jim Empringhamand KajaHavelka
The Committee has met three times (2006 April 10,May 01,May 15)with a further meeting
scheduled for 2006 June 19.The agenda and minutes of each meeting are available to
Trustees and the public on the Board website under Parents &Community/Area
Accommodation Study Committees/Good Places to Learn - Renewing Ontario Schools.
Asurvey of all Tollgate Central families was completed and the results are Included In the
minutes of the meeting held 2006 May 15. A boundary review has also been completed.
Recommendations 1 and 2 reflect the outcome of that review.Recommendation 3 confirms
the commitment to the community regarding eligibility for current Tollgate Central Public
School Englishprogram pupilstoattend HicksonCentralPublicSchoolwithtransportation for
those students only untilthey complete their elementary school program.
The commitment of the Board to full public consultation and the provision of appropriate
committees to review all aspects of the proposed change of use for the Tollgate Central Public
School has been fulfilled.The committee has worked positively toward ensuring that students
are appropriately treated and accommodated through this process of change.Thanks are
expressed to all those who have been involved in ensuring the success of this important
responsibility.
RECOMMENDATIONS
1.That the boundary for Hickson Central Public School be amended to Include the area of
Tollgate Central Public School along a north-south line west of and excluding 78383 on
County Road 33,and west ofand including 745355 on County Road 17 to PIttock Lake.
2.That the boundary for Innerklp Centra! Public School be amended to include the area of
Tollgate Central PublicSchool along a north-south line east ofand including78383 on County
Road 33,and east of and excluding 745355 on County Road 17 to PIttock Lake.
3.That Tollgate Central PublicSchool Englishprogram students currently registered at Tollgate
for the 2005-06 school year, who reside within the newly-designated portionof the Innerklp
Central Public School boundary, may, for 2006 September 01 admission only,opt to attend
Hickson Central Public School with transportation provided on a grand-parented basis until
they complete their elementary program, providedthat their registration at HicksonCentral
Public School Is continuous.
The Administration responded to questions of clarification.The recommendations were
moved by J.Stewart and carried.
r ^2006 June 27...21
12.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd
0.REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE -cont'd
8.DIRECTOR'S ANNOUNCEMENTS
Director Bryce reported that on 2006 June 14,the EQAO test results for secondary schools
will be available.Supt.Wilkinson advised that a media release is to be prepared and will be
sent to trustees regarding the results.
Director Bryce advised that on 2006 June 12, he and Executive Superintendent Greene
attended a Ministry of Education debriefing session at which time Nancy Nayior,Assistant
Deputy Minister,announced changes to the education funding for 2006-07.
Supt.Greene distributed Ministry Memorandum 2006;B8 as well as other information
regarding the high level analysis of the funding. Director Bryce advised that,during the
Ministry briefing, the Thames Valley District School Board received accolades for its
outstanding work on the Primary
Class Size Plan,a further indication of the significant contributions of Supts.Thorpe and
Greene,Facility Manager Bushell and Planning Officer Owens in establishing a process which
will be used as a model across the province.
Supt.Greene highlighted the changes tothe 2006-07 Grants for Student Needs (GSN). He
advised that in 2006-07,the government will allocate almost $17.58 to elementary and
secondary education through the Grants for Student Needs (GSN). This represents an
increase of $600M over the GSN allocation for 2005-06.The government will also continue
to support other important initiatives withInvestments ofmore than $200Moutside the funding
formula,including support for the Literacy and Numeracy Secretariat,Student Success,the
renewal of the teaching profession as well as parent engagement.
Overview
In 2006-07 there will be a realignment of the GSN to address two key issues in education
funding:the fixed costs of operating schools and the outdated benchmarks for teacher
salaries.This realignment will result in an education funding formula that more clearly
recognizes the real costs faced by school boards.
The government will continue Its investments inthe four-year,labour framework and Primary
class size reduction.The 2006-07 school year will see a renewed commitment to achieving
long-term reform offundingforspeclal education and studenttransportation.Fundingfornew
capital programs will also be Introduced.
Specific funding enhancements and changes to the GSN for the 2006-07 school year are
categorized under the following headings;
Realignment
Introduce a School Foundation Grant that ensures each school is properly resourced for
in-school administration.Funding for principals,vice principals,school secretaries and
school office supplies will be provided on a per-school basis through this new grant;
Close the gap,through a realignment offunding between actual teacher salaries paid by
school boards and the funding for salaries provided through the Foundation Grant and the
Cost Adjustment and Teacher Qualificationsand Experience Grant.
Labour Framework
Support the four-year,labour framework agreement and the multi-year plan to increase
teaching staff in elementaryand secondary schools. The province will alsofundthe full cost
-both the provincial and school board shares - of the increase In elementary teachers'
preparationtimeunder the labourframework In 2006-07.
2006 June 27...22
12.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES-cont'd
0.REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE -cont'd
8.DIRECTOR'S ANNOUNCEMENTS -cont'd
Primary class size
-Support Improved student achievement through reductions in Primary class sizes.
iWemorandum 2006;B7- 2006-07 Primary Class Size Funding and PCS Plan issued to
boards on 2006 June 05 has already provideddetail on the primary class size initiative
for 2006-07.
InvestIn Primary class size capital needs In preparation for thecapon Primary classsize
in 2007-08.
Capital
- SupportStage II andthe Prohlbitive-to-Repair components ofthe GoodPlaces to Learn
plan to invest in repairs,renovations and replacementsofschool facilities;
Invest In othercapitalneeds Including funding fornewschools in localized growth areas,
Best Start child care centres,accommodation needs of French-language school boards
and capital debt commitments.'
New fundlnc approaches
- Begin reform of Special Education funding in response to recommendations from the
Working Table on Special Education;
Supportschoolboards with additional investmentsas transportationreformsbeginto be
implemented in 2006-2007.
Other Investments
-Assist boards with the costs of utilities and tnjstee remuneration;
Continue the government's multi-year Investment In French-language school boards In
response to the recommendations of the French-Language Education Strategy Task
Force.
Reoprtlna and Accountabilltv
-Many ofthe reporting requirementsremainunchanged.However,enveloping restrictions
have been modified to reflect the realignment of funding. For example,compliance for
••classroom spending requiring unspent amounts to be putinto reserves will be removed;
- New reporting and compliancerequirementshavebeen Introduced forspendingonboard
administration and Primary class size funding as stated in Memorandum 2006:B7 -2006-
•'07 PrimaryClass Size Fundingand PCS Plan.
A lengthy questlon-and-answer period followed.Supt.Greene asked that the Budget
Advisory Committee schedule a meeting prior to the 2006 June 27 Board meeting.
Manager Bushellprovidedpreliminaryremarks regardingthe possible Impacton the draft
five-year capital plan Initiatives relatedtothe Ministry's 2006-07 funding enhancements
and GSN changes.
Director Bryce expressed concern regardingspecific areas where Ministry expectations
are now differentand prove problematic citing an example that all school boards forthe
2006-07schoolyear are expected to have 100 percent ratherthan 75 percentofPrimary
classes with23 or fewer students with as many as possible at or below 20:1 resulting in
principals having to reorganize staffing already established.
2006 June 27...23
12.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd
c.REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE -cont'd
8.DIRECTOR'S ANNOUNCEMENTS,Reporting and Accountability -cont'd
He advised that Directors of Education for Southwestern Ontario have nfiet with Ministry staff
expressing concerns with the changes to specific initiatives that are not in keeping with
previous directives.
9.MONTHLY FINANCIAL REPORTING
The month-end financial report as at 2006 April 30 was presented.The year-to-date activity
was provided and included a summary of revenues,expenditures by expenditure type,
expenditures by area,and expenditure type.Supt.Greene advised that tlie 2006 March
enrolment figures are close to projections resulting inno changes to grants. He cautioned
that some projections are based on assumptions of how money will be spent between 2006
June and September.The retirement gratuities are another area that cannot be quantified
until the actual figures are known.
10.GENDER DIFFERENCES IN ACHIEVEMENT ON PROVINCIAL ASSESSMENTS
K.Wilkinson,Superintendent of Education, S.Killip,Manager,Research and Assessment,
and C.Graves,Learning Supervisor,Program,presented an in-depth analysis of the
Education Qualityand Accountability Office assessment results for Grades 3 and 6 with
respect to differences in achievement ofmales and females as per the Board motion of2005
February 08.
A Board motion,passed in early 2005 February,directed Research and Assessment Services
to "conduct a more In-depth analysis of the Education Quality and Accountability Office
(EQAO)reading,writing and mathematics scores overthe past fiveyears". The motionfurther
indicated that the purpose was to examine gender differences in achievement at the school
level to help understand factors that might account for differences.
A brief update on the project plan was presented to trustees in the Fallof 2005 duringthe
presentation of the 2004-05 EQAO achievement results. Giventhe introductionofdetailed
achievement scores as part of the results for the 2005 May Grade 3 and Grade 6
assessments,further analyses were planned priorto presenting the finalreport directed inthe
above-noted Board motion.
Results
The results and observations are organized into five sections.The sections are introduced
byposingquestions. Observationsare provided inthesections tocapture the keypointsand
findings. Each section is supported by more detailed Information as presented byS.Killip.
Mr.Killip advised that, forthe most part, there is very little difference between achievement
of males and females in mathematics.Therefore,the following report details literacy
assessments only.Where findingswarrant,mathematics infonnation is provided.
What does the literature and findings from other jurisdictions say about male/female
differences in achievement?
•Females do better than males on standardized assessments.
•Canada and the USA have smaller gender gaps than most countries.
• More males than females receive special education.
•Females tend to have more positive attitudes than males regarding school and academic
subjects.
•Males have a higher dropout rate than females.
More females than males go on to higher education.
2006 June 27...24
12.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES-cont'd
c.REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE -cont'd
10. GENDER DIFFERENCES IN ACHIEVEMENT ON PROVINCIAL ASSESSMENTS - cont'd
What are the district level results Inreading and writingby sex,over the past six years?
Grade 3
In reading and writing a greater percentage of females than malesmeetthe provincial
standard.
Both males and females have shown an Increase in reading and writing achievement over
the six years.
• The current achievement gap between females and males Inreading, Interms of students
meeting the provincial standard,of 10 percentis similar tothe rate inthe2000test year.
• Thecurrentachievementgap betweenfemales and males in writing,interms ofstudents
meetingthe provincial standard, of 17 percent issimilarto the rate In the 2000test year.
Grade 6
• in reading and writing a greater percentage of females than males meet the provincial
standard.
Both males and females have shown an increase in reading and writing achievement over
the six years;however,the increase for males In reading has been greater than for
females.
• The current achievement gap between females and males inreading, interms of students
meetingthe provincial standard, is 12 percent. Thisdifferencehas declinedoverthe six
years.
• The current achievement gap between females and males inwriting,in terms of students
meetingthe provincial standard, of20 percent issimilarto the rate from sixyears ago.
Do the distributions of the detailed scores from the 2005 May assessments differ for males
and females?
Examining the distributions revealsthatthere Isfarmore variation In the achievement scores
within either male or female than there is between males and females.Having said that,the
distributions do differ to some extent.
• in reading and writing the detailed scores range between .1 and 4.5. The overall shape
of the distribution of scores is fairlysimilarfor males and females,however, itis shifted
towards higher scores for the females.
• There Isa greater percentage offemales than males inthe 3.5 to4.5 range In both writing
and reading.
• There Isa greater percentage of males than females Inthe 1.5 to 2.7 range in writing and
.7 to 2.3 In reading.
• Inthe mid-range ofthe scales (2.9 to 3.3), the proportion of males and females Issimilar.
In mathematics,scores for males and females are distributed infairlysimilar manner with
justa smallover-representationofmales at higherscores and females In the mid-range
scores.
In what proportion ofschoolsdomaleshave higher achievement than females,females have
higher achievement thanmalesand inwhat proportion Is there no difference?
Assessment Year 2004
For each school the percentage ofmales achievingthe standard was subtracted from the
percentageoffemales achieving thestandard.Differences of9 percenteitherwaywere
considered as no male/female difference.
In2004, the achievement for males was higher than females for 19 ofthe 142 schools In
reading and 10 ofthe 142 schools in writing.
2006 June 27...25
12.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd
c.REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE -cont'd
10.GENDER DIFFERENCES IN ACHIEVEMENT ON PROVINCIAL ASSESSMENTS -cont'd
•The achievement for females was higher than males for 67 of the schools In reading and
95 schools In writing.
For 56 schools in reading and 37 schools inwriting there was no difference.
The results for Grade 6 followed a similar pattern,except somewhat more extreme.For
example,in writing there were 106 of the 149 schools in which the achievement for
females was higher than males.
Combining Assessment Years 2000 to 2005
• Using the same method as above of comparing male and female school to school
achievement the combined results from 2000 to 2005 were examined.
For reading, inapproximately 55 percent of the schools, males did not outperform females
(i.e.,more than 10 percent higherachievement atthe standard) inany ofthe six years and in
writingthe figure was about 74 percent.
Malesoutperformedfemales inone ofthe six years in36 percent ofthe schools inreading
and 21 percent of the schools inwriting.
The figures drop to about 9 percent and 4 percent for reading and writing for males
outperforming females intwo of the six years.
There are only three schools inwhich males outperform females Inthree of the six years
and none for four,five, or six of six years.
Likewise,there Isonlyone school where males outperform females In writing in three of
the six years and none forfour,five,or six ofsix years.
The Grade 6 the pattern is similarto that at Grade 3, although slightlymore extreme.For
example,there are no schools inwhich males outperform females more than twiceinthe
six years.
Are there schools In which males have shown consistent year to year Increases in
achievement?
•There are 55 schools in which the percentage of Grade 3 males who achieve the
provincial standard In eitherreadingor writing has increased by21 percent ormore from
2000 to 2005.
In 24 of these schools,the increase was In both reading and writing, in 19 schools the
increase was in reading onlyand in 12 schools the increase was only inwriting.
• In virtually all these schools, the pattern Isnot linear. Inother words, although all schools
showed an overall net Increase of 21 percent or greater,virtually all schools had at least
one year inwhichachievement declined. Asmall numberofschools had onlyone year
of decline.
Next Steps
A more detailed analysis ofschool level data and a follow-up evaluation ofstaff practices at
some schools Isplanned. Schools in whichthe achievement ofmales overthe sixyears has
increased in all but one year and a small number of schools in which the males have
outperformed females In at least two ofthe sixyears will be included.
C.Graves explained a numberoflarge initiatives thatthe Board has undertakento shrink the
gendergap between girls and boys.She exhibited some ofthe resources highlighting the
following Board and Ministry-funded Initiatives Supporting Boys and Literacy:
a.System Big Ideas
Large scale direction Is communicated to school staff through all ministries and board
funded system workshops and in-service.The four general areas of Intervention include:
2006 June 27...26
12.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES-cont'd
c.REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE -cont'd
10.GENDERDIFFERENCESINACHIEVEMENTONPROVINCIALASSESSMENTS-confd
Next Steps -cont'd
ideas around engaging boys in literacy;
•strategies to develop and promote Interest in reading;
•instructional strategies;
•resources to support.
b.Secretariat-funded Projects • •
For schools with at least a 20 percent gap In the grade 6 reading and writing
performanceofboysversus girlsfor2004-05.Thirty schools wereselected toreceive
a selection of resource bundles valued at $5 000 per school.
c. Boys Literacy ProjectsfundedThrough Learning Opportunity Grants (LOG)
These are school (orgroupofschool) specific projects withthe goal of improving the
literacy skills ofstudents. Project,forexample,Include "Improve the literacy skillsof
at riskboysingrade 10 applied classes of English,Science,History and Mathematics"
and "improving boys'literacy skills and building teacher capacity to assist boys with
literacy development".
d.Pathways-funded Projects
A project has been designed to promote boys literacycalled "Boys to Men".This
project is being conducted in a secondary school and fiveofthe elementary feeder
schools.Another project, "Developing Strategic Readers",targets the Grade 7 and 8
classes in the 57 PFE schools plus two French Immersion Schools.Funding for
teacher in-service and resources is provided.
e.Graphic Novels Project
This project is designed to appeal to at risk readers and boys in Grades 7 to 12.
Fundingfor teacher in-serviceand resources is provided.
f. Ministry-provided Support Documents
The Ministry has providedresources,newsletters and resource teams to enhance boys
literacy. For example,the Ministry produced a document titled "Me Read?No Way\",
a resource document containing classroom strategies for engaging boys.The Ministry
also has formed an advisory team to collect and share information on best practices.
Dr.Killip and MsGraves responded to question posed byTrustees.Itwas requested
that OSSLT information be presented at a subsequent meeting.
11.SMALL SECONDARY SCHOOLS STAFFING UPDATE
Supt. Thorpe advised that D.Blair,Superintendent of Education,would be presenting a
small secondary schools staffing update In response to a request by Trustee Peters.
Supt. Blair explained that secondary regular classroom teacher allocations are
systematicallycalculated by utilizing the enrolment and credit projections to reflect the
credit needs.The purpose ofthis document Isto briefly describe the procedures Involved
Ingenerating the Secondary RegularClassroom Staffing Allocation spreadsheet.
Introduction
Itis generally recognized thatthereisa needfor differentiated staffing level toaccommodate
the needs of students enrolled in various type of classes and credits. For example,the
optimum class size foracademicclasses is different from thatofessentialclasses. Itisalso
recognizedthat differentiated staffing needs tobe extended intosome technical courses and
classes as well because of equipment and safety considerations and requirements.
2006 June 27...27
12.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd
0.REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE -cont'd
11.SMALL SECONDARY SCHOOLS STAFFING UPDATE -cont'd
After extensive discussion by the Secondary Staffing Formuia Working Committee In 2001,
it was recommended that,for the purpose of staffing the secondary regular classrooms,
course credits are to be divided into the following four groups:
Academic "A"-University
College
University/College
Advanced
GAG'S
Academic
Applied "P"-Workplace
Open
Applied
Science
Co-op
General
Technical'T'-Technical
Essential "E"-Essential
Basic
GLE Course
Locally Developed (added 2005)
It was noted that other unique or special classes are to be excluded since they are staffed
separately.
Trustee Peters asked if comparison data was available related to cancelled course offerings
for 2006-07 and 2005-06 at Glencoe DHS.Supt.Thorpe advised that the elimination of
courses occurs In many secondary schools when there are insufficient numbers to run the
course as well as when staffing Issues occur.
A motion to sit passed 11:00 p.m.to 11:15 p.m.was moved on motion of S.Peters.
The following motion was moved by S.Peters and subsequently defeated.
That an additional four PTE teaching staff be added to the small secondary staffing
complement to address the needs at these schools.
12.THIRD INTERIM REPORT OF THE BYLAW REVIEW COMMITTEE
Trustee Anstead Introduced a report requesting approval to submit the final report of the Bylaw
Review Committee directly to the Board at Its regular meeting on 2006 June 27.
Atthe 2006 May23 Board meeting,the following motions were approved;
That the Board meeting structure be amended to two Board meetings per month, held the
second and fourth Tuesday of each month other than July and August, effective 2006
September.
2006 June 27...28
12.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd
c.REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE -cont'd
12.THIRD INTERIM REPORT OF THE BYLAW REVIEW COMMITTEE -cont'd
That public and staff presentations be included on regular Board meeting agendas,as
appropriate,with Information Committee ofthe Whole meetings called duringthe school year
by the Chairs'Committee in consultation with the Director, to hear expanded presentations
from staff,for example Our Vision,Budget,and EQAO results.
Trustee Anstead noted that,as a result of these approvals,there are several sections of the
current Bylawsthat are affected by the changes.The Committee met on 2006 May29 to begin
the process of considering and amending the sections,i.e.3.0,5.0,6.0,7.0,8.2,8.3,8.5,9.0,
10.0,11.0,12.0.Another meeting is necessary to complete the discussion In order to prepare
the final report to the Board on 2006 June 27. Therefore, Itwas requested that approval be
granted to submit the final report directly to the Board on 2006 June 27 in order that the
Committee has sufficient time to complete its consideration of the outstanding agenda items.
RECOMMENDATION
That the final report of the Bylaw Review Committee be submitted directly to the Board at
its meeting on 2006 June 27 to provide the Committee sufficient time to complete its worl<.
The recommendation was moved by D.Anstead and carried.Trustee Peters was absent during
the vote.
13.REPORT OF THE NATIVE ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETING 2006 May 09
3:10 p.m.-4:50 p.m.
Members
J. Henry,Trustee (Chair)C.VanEvery-Albert,O.K.T.
A.Cartler,Trustee (-4:50)C. Dolson,Munsee-Delaware
8.Albert-Nlnham,Chippewas of the Thames
Administration and Others
E.Good,Learning Coordinator B. Misklman,Principal,Thames S.S.
C.Graves,Learning Supervisor C. Murphy,Exec.Supt.Program
M.Hubert,Corporate Services Services
P. Tufts, Principal, H.B.Beal S.S.
Regrets:G.McGahey,J.Bennett
Absent:R.Doxtator,M. Elijah
Guests:L.Stevenson,E.Jamleson,,M.
Davis,C.Squire
1.CALL TO ORDER
The meeting convened at 3:10 p.m. in the Elgin Room at the Education Centre.
2.APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Three Items were added under "Additional Items"as follows:
-Meeting Dates
-Organizational Structure
-Lacrosse
The agenda was approved as amended on a motion by C. Dolson.
2006 June 27...29
12.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd
c.REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE -cont'd
13.REPORT OF THE NATIVE ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETING -cont'd
3.CONFLICTS OF INTEREST
No conflicts of interest were declared.
4.CONFIRMATION OF VOTING MEMBERS
-Trustees J. Henry, A.Cartier
- O.K.T.Representatives C.VanEvery-Albert,
-Chlppewas of the Thames S.Albert-Ninham,
-Munsee-Delaware Nation C.Dolson
5.WELCOME AND INTRODUCTIONS
Chair Henry welcomed all to the meeting and E.Good,Learning Co-ordinator,introduced
guest speakers E.Jamieson,M.Davis,C.Squire from Six Nations.
6.REPORT OF MEETING -2006 March 28
The report of the 2006 March 28 meeting was approved on a motion by C. Dolson.
Business Arising from the Minutes
Letter to Education Quality and Accountability Office
In keeping with the 2006 March 28 motion, a letter was drafted to the Education Quality
and Accountability Office (EQAO)requesting that assessment results of First Nations
students who are covered bytuition agreements be reported separately.Copies of the
draft were distributed and the content discussed.Suggestions for clarification of the
intent of the letter as well as revisions to the wording were noted.The letter will be
updated accordingly and forwarded to Chair J.Henry for signature.The letter was
approved as amended on a motion by S.Albert-Ninham.
7.PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
Six Nations Native Language Immersion School Presentation
M.Davis was introduced and gave the traditional Thanksgiving Address in the Native
language while illustrations with English subtitles were shown.It was explained that the
prayer is said at the opening and closing of each day.The presentation provided a history
of the development of the Native Language Immersion School at Six Nations describing
the growth of the program which began with a kindergarten class and evolved into a
secondary school graduation program.
A1984 study revealed the disturbing fact that out ofa population of several thousand,only
a few hundred people at Six Nations were Native language speakers.Following the
French Immersion model,a Native language immersion program was started In an
abandoned school house supported by funds raised within the community.Funding to
continue the program was received from Indian and Northern Affairs Canada (INAC)in
1986.
The year 1995 marked the first Grade 8 class graduating from the Immersion program and
the beginning of the secondary school program.The secondary school began as a satellite
of the Grand-Erie Board but sought Private School status in 1998.The elementary
program is full immersion until Grade 6 and teaches both the Cayuga and Mohawk
languages.Grades 7 and 8 are 50%immersion and 50% English.The secondary program
is 25%immersion with the core curriculum taught in English but from a Native cultural
perspective.Students at the secondary level participate In Education Quality and
Accountability Office (EQAO) testing and receive a provincially recognized graduation
diploma upon completionofthe secondary school curriculum. The school has produced
at least one Ontario Scholar each year.
2006 June 27...30
12.REPORTS OF COWIMITTEES-cont'd
c.REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE -cont'd
13.REPORT OF THE NATIVE ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETING -cont'd
8.CULTURAL FUND
Copiesofthe Native Cultural Fund Financial Report forthe periods2005 April 01to2006
March 31 and 2006 April 01 to 2006 April 30 were distributed. C.Graves.Learning
Supervisor,explained that although someschoolshadoverspenttheirbudgets,abalance
of $902.00 was not used by the end of the fiscal period ending 2006 March31. Itwas
noted that several counsellors had not accessed their travel and professional development
budgets because of the time-lines.Ms.Graves will meet with the school principals to
discuss the issue ofreleasing counsellors fromthe schools toattend conferences and with
the counsellors to discuss appropriate uses of the Cultural Fund.
Ms.Graves responded to questions.
9.ADDITIONAL ITEMS
Because of a lack of quorum at 4:50 p.m., the remaining business was deferred to the
2006 June 13 meeting.
The next meeting will be in the Elgin Room at the Education Centre on Tuesday,2006
June 13 from 3:00 p.m.-4:30 p.m.
10.ADJOURNMENT -The meeting adjourned at 4:55 p.m.
J.HENRY,
Chairperson
Trustee Henryadvisedthatseveral Native Advisory Committeemeetings havebeen cancelled
because of the lackofa quorum and asked about the feasibility of alternates beingappointed
to the Committee.The matter has been referred the Board's Bylaw Review Committee for
consideration.
14. CAPITAL PLANNING ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETING 2006 May 17
-Thames Valley District School Board Education Centre 7:00 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.
1.WELCOME AND INTRODUCTIONS
Board Chair Graham Hart welcomed everyone present and asked that members of the
Advisory Committee introduce themselves noting their area of representation on the
committee (A list of committee members was attached). He thanked the committee
members for agreeing to participate and accepting the challenge of addressing the Board's
accommodation needs over the next few years.He noted that there was a significant
number of members ofthe publicin attendance and noted hisappreciation fortheirInterest
in their schools and in public education.
2. a.NEW CAPITAL PLANNING 10-STEP PROCESS
Chair Hart described the Ministry of Education Good Places to Learn-Renewing
Ontario's Schools document regarding school accommodation noting it was released
on February 17,2005, by Premier Daiton McGuinty and Gerard Kennedywhowas
Minister of Education at the time.He advised that the document does not have the
status oflawor regulationbutitis the government's blueprintto address a number of
educational issues.
Chair Hartindicated that Bill 78, currentlybefore the legislature,addresses some items
found in the Good Places to Learn document such as the class size cap for elementary
classes,retaining 16 and 17-year-olds and reducingthe drop-out rate. The Best Start
program has been suspended at thistime as a result of the position taken bythe
federal government.
2006 June 27...31
12.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd
c.REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE -cont'd
14.CAPITAL PLANNING ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETING -cont'd
2.a.NEW CAPITAL PLANNING 10-STEP PROCESS-cont'd
He noted that Thames Valley has received significant funds to begin needed repairs
and upgrades to schools but the School Closure Guidelines to be developed by the
Ministryof Education have not been issued.
Chair Hart referred the Committee to the New Capital Planning 10-Step Process
included in the document and advised that there are no Ministry guidelines around the
work of the committee other than Step 2 of the 10-step process related to community
engagement:
"Public engagement will ensure that communities take full advantage of school
facilities and are active participants in long-term school and community planning.
Boards will strike a capital planning advisory committee,overseen by toistees,with
municipal,school,community and public representation.The committee will help
provide feedback from the broader community at an early stage."
b.PURPOSE OF COMMITTEE
Chair Hart described the purpose of Thames Valley's Capital Planning Advisory
Commlttee-to engage the public in a broad,wide and deep consultation process to
assist the Board in Its long-term planning.
He indicated that the Committee is not designed to address specific school
accommodation issues as they will be discussed by individual school or area
accommodation committees.The Committee will consider,on a broad basis,the
items outlined in Steps 1, 3, 4 and 5 of the 10-Step process-specifically program
objectives,facilities needs,demographic projections and capital deployment.
Chair Hart advised that public consultation will be sought once the MOE responds to
the draft Capital Plan. Informationon the draft Plan is available on the Board's website
(www.tvdsb.on.ca)under -"Good Places to Leam"and provides information on the
planning process.
3.CONTEXT OF CAPITAL PLAN
In describing the context ofthe draft Capital Plan, Chair Hart commented that operations
for school boards changed with the 1998 amalgamation.Not only did the provincial
government significantly reduce the number of boards,in Thames Valley's case from four
to one,it also eliminated a board's abilityto raise educational taxes locally. In the past,all
school boards made the decision to build new schools.In part based on the local abilityto
pay.
Whileprevious governments asked boards forcapital plans, the current requirement isthe
most detailed.Boards are required to submit a five-year Capital Plan which includes
components of new schools, additions to existing schools, program enhancements/
challenges and possible school closures.Boards are also required to provide utility costs
for all existing facilities along with projected costs and ID-year enrolment projections.
Chair Hart noted that itis possible for Thames Valleyto receive a substantial portion ofthe
$4B that will be made available for school repairs,additions and new schools.
He advised that on 2005 December 12 during the preparation of Thames Valley's draft
Capital Plan,Minister Kennedy met with trustees andtheSenior Administration todiscuss
the Board's enrolment challenges,both shiftingand declining, and preparation ofthe Plan.
2006 June 27...32
12.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd
c.REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE -cont'd
14.CAPITAL PLANNING ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETING -cont'd
3.CONTEXT OF CAPITAL PLAN -cont'd
Consistent with Steps 9 and 10 ofthe 10-Step Process,he advised the Board to have the
Administration submit a draft Plan priortoreceiving publicInputand priortoBoard approval
of the Plan. This would enable him to advise the Board which aspects of the draft Plan he
would support and which aspect,ifany, he could not support. Then, and only after the
Board had received the Minister's Input,were trustees to seek public input on those
aspects the Minister would support. He indicated that itwouldnot be beneficial to solicit
publicinputon any aspect ofthe draft Plan he didnot support. Hence, the draft Plan that
has been submitted has not been approved by the Board.
Chair Hart Indicated that on 2005 December 20 the Board passed the following motion, in
part:
That public input be sought on the draft Capital Plan in accordance with the process
set out in the document "Good Places to Learn",once comments on the draft Plan
have been received from the Minister of Education.
Withthe change inMinisters,the Board has not been advised IfMinister Pupatello will take
a different approach to the Capital Planning process.He indicated that the aim of the
meeting was to provide committee members with detailed information and to seek their
Inputon three questions to assist tnjstees to move through the process.
4.2006 DRAFT CAPITAL PLAN
a.Program Objectives
Executive Superintendent John Thorpe advised that at the time ofitsfounding in 1998,
the Thames ValleyDistrictSchool Board faced many complex challenges related to
school accommodation,program equity and harmonization of predecessor Board
practices.It became apparent that overall declining enrolment,shifting populations,
the number of schools In operation and vacant pupil places required a comprehensive
analysis and reviewto allowfor Board-wide planning resulting In securing the services
of C N Watson and Associates in 2004 December.
In 2005 February, the Ministry of Education (MOE)introduced the Good Places to
Learn long-range capital planning process which broadened the focus ofthe planning
exercise and added many Important variables and opportunities for the Board,
consistent with MOE expectations and Initiatives.
Mr.Thorpe described the following major variables that were considered.
1.Enrolment
'Distributed material included a report showing Thames Valle/s forecast of a
decline in enrolment in excess of 10,000 students from its peak In 1999-2000,or
a decline of 13.1%.Since the peak enrolment in the Board was reached in 1999
October,(81,751.32 FTE students,elementary and secondary combined),
enrolment has declined by4,977,18 FTE students on 2006 October 31,or 6.09%.
The elementary decline In the same period has been 3,443.50 students or6.44%.
in each of the last three school years,an average of more than 1,000 fewer
students have entered Grade 1 than have left Grade 8.Enrolment projections
previously presented tothe Boardshow thisdecline will continuetoan anticipated
lowofapproximately 71,000 FTE,or 13.15%decline from peak.Inthe year 2012-
2013.
2006 June 27...33
12.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd
c.REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE -cont'd
14.CAPITAL PLANNING ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETING -Enrolment -cont'd
4.2006 DRAFT CAPITAL PLAN -cont'd
a.Program Objectives -cont'd
1.Enrolment -cont'd
In addition,the Board has experienced and will continue to face several areas of
greater growth and greater decline producing pressure for new pupil places in the
former areas,and reducing efficiencies of operation in the latter.There is
considerable pressure and necessity to provide new pupil places in the short term
in North London,St.Thomas and Strathroy.The draft plan will recommend new
schools and major additions to both elementary and secondary facilities in growth
areas.The draft Plan will recommend consolidations and closures in areas where
existing student numbers and future projected enrolment decline necessitate such
consideration in the interests of efficiency of operation and provision of appropriate
program and support for students.
Finally,as a result of Increasing demand Board-wide as well as changes and
extension of French Immersion programs and transportation provisions in Elgin,
Middlesex and Oxford Counties since the amalgamation,elementary French
Immersion enrolment has Increased from 2269.50 FTE In 1999 October to
2997.00 in 2005 October,or 32.06%.
2.Funding
it is important to note that Thames Valle/s funding is per pupil not per school.
That Is,the revenue Is the same regardless of how many schools are operated.
Since approximately 85% of the Ministry's funding to the Board Is generated on a
per pupil basis,declining enrolment will produce less funding.
The retention of the same numbers of schools for fewer students means devoting
increasing proportions offixed dollar revenue to operations and infrastructure with
proportionately fewer dollars available forall other aspects of Board program and
priority.The Plan will recommend school closures where feasible to reduce the
impact of the pressure of declining revenues based on per pupil allocations.
3.Surplus PudII Spaces
Itis important to note that Thames Valley has the second larger number of surplus
student spaces,next to Toronto, Inthe province ofOntario. As has been reported
to the Board in the past and confirmed by the C.N.Watson report,the Thames
Valley Board has the second largest numbers of vacant pupil places among
Ontario boards,currently totaling approximately 2,000,000 square feet.
The draft Capital Plan recommendations attempt to use this vacant space where
possible by conversion of use for student programs.In addition,recommendations
will be made to consider several school closures which can only occur subject to
the receipt and implementation ofthe awaited Ministry School Closure Guidelines.
4.French Immersion
With growthIndemand and provisionforFrench ImmersionBoard-wide,thisstudy
undertook to providea common,consistent approach to program organization and
delivery.The draftCapitalPlan recommendations forFrench Immersionare based
on a standard model of SK-8,late entry at grade 7,single-track.Itis recognized
that the dual-track model provides a quality program and is well-received where
Itis in place.
2006 June 27...34
12.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd
c.REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE -cont'd
14.CAPITAL PLANNING ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETING -cont'd
4.2006 DRAFT CAPITAL PLAN -cont'd
a.Program Objectives,
4.French Immersion -cont'd
Nonetheless,from a program perspective where numbers warrant,single-track is
recommended.The Plan will recommend increasing accommodation available for
elementary French Immersion pupils on a single-track basis In response to the
demand for Fl spaces despite the overall enrolment decline.
5.Program Excellence
The Board will be looking at harmonization and equity of access as it continues to
pursue program excellence.Underpinning the capital plan process,provincially
and for Thames Valley, Is the opportunity to enhance excellence in programming
for students through new Initiatives and new standards emphasizing program
harmonization.The Plan will support the Introduction of new Board standards for
elementary school General Arts rooms In new and renovated schools in support
of Ministry expectations for student Instruction in dance,music and visual arts.
Enhanced secondary technology offerings will be supported through the
introduction,where appropriate,of new programs in areas not presently offered.
In addition, Initiatives such as expanded service technology facilities in strategic
locations will be advocated which support the Learning to 18 expectations of the
Ministry.Specifically,the availabilityto students of Health and Personal Services,
Hospitality and Tourism and Horticulture Technology will be expanded.
6.Program Enhancement
One of the objectives of the "Good Places to Learn"initiative Is for boards to look
at their existing facilities with respect to their suitability to offer quality programs.
With this in mind, a review of all specialized spaces has been conducted and
recommendations are being proposed to be funded through the Capital Plan to
improve Resource Centres,gymnasiums and Special Education facilities inboth
panels,as well as the Arts,Science laboratories and Technology In the secondary
panel.The firstfive-year draft Capital Plan recommends that 17 elementary and
12 secondary schools receive program enhancements through additions or
renovations to their existing facilities.
7.Provincial Government Initiatives
I.Ontario Disabilities Act (ODA)-The draft Capital Plan proposes alterations to
ensure that all of the Board's facilities would be compliant with the ODA within
10 years at an estimated cost of $7.5 million (in 2006 dollars).
II.Primary Class Size (PCS)-Calculations of enrolment have been completed
to Identify facility requirements to PCS reduction which will be addressed
through permanent or temporary accommodations.Estimated costs have also
been prepared and Inserted Into the draft Plan.
iii.Daily Physical Activity (DPA) -All schools have been assessed as to the
capacity oftheir existing facilities as they relate to DPA.
iv.Best Start -Twenty-four potential Best Start locations approved by Executive
Council have been identified in the draft Capital Plan.
V.Community Use -All Board facilities were identified as to their availabilityfor
community use as per the Ministry requirements.
2006 June 27...35
12.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd
c.REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE -cont'd
14.CAPITAL PLANNING ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETING -cont'd
4.2006 DRAFT CAPITAL PLAN -cont'd
b.Facilities Needs
Facilities Manager Kevin Bushell described how the Primary Class Size requirements
are being accommodated in the draft Capital Plan in relation to the on-the-ground
capacity of schools.
c.Demographic Projections
The reasons for the decline in enrolment was explained by Planning Officer Gil Owens.
He advised that the birth rate In the Thames Valley District Board peaked In 1992 and
has declined each year since.This decline combined with the low net immigration into
the Board jurisdiction has resulted in the declining enrolment which the Board is
experiencing In the elementary panel.The secondary panel will soon begin to feel the
impact of this decline as the peak In enrolment moves through the system.This
population pattern has been monitored and anticipated.The impact of large new
industries such as the new Toyota Plant In Woodstock and the secondary Industries
that follow will has some impact;however,the impact is usually not as significant in
terms of student enrolment as is frequently anticipated.
d.Funding and Capital Deployment
1.Funding
Executive Superintendent Greene described the funding model which generated
a 2005-00 Budget of$630M. The model includes the Foundation Grant, Special
Purpose Grants,Pupil Accommodation and School Renewal.
He advised that funding comes from the Province of Ontario through the
Foundation Grant and is based on a per pupil basis noting the Board will lose
approximately $4M as a result ofdeclining enrolment or$43.9M bythe year 2010.
He noted that declining enrolment will have a significant impact on the funding as
the Board anticipates a reduction of 1000 students in 2006-07.The Declining
Enrolment Grant is temporary and will not continue to be provided to boards
experiencing enrolment decline.
He described the various grants provided by the MOE to operate a school board
and advised that the Thames Valley District School Board has 2M more square
feet than it Is funded.Operating and renewal costs are major factors in
maintaining the Board's schools.
Special Purpose Grants include Special Education,Language,Continuing
Education and Transportation.Most are also driven by enrolment,e.g.Special
Education lost $2.0M as a result of declining enrolment.
The Pupil Accommodation Grant is provided to assist with school operations-to
maintain them,heat and clean.It is based on enrolment with a benchmark by
area of 104 square feet for elementary and 130 square feet for secondary.Mr.
Greene advised that the Board maintains an unfunded surplus of 2.0M square
feet across the system resulting ina significant additional annual cost.
School Renewal funding is provided to fund major projects such as fire and life
safety, barrier-free upgrades,roof replacement,boiler,heatingand ventilation,fire
alarms and windows.The formula is based on enrolment and the square foot
benchmark.Mr.Greene indicated that both operating costs and renewal costs
are major factors in maintaining the existing inventoryof schools.
2006 June 27...36
12.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd
c.REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE -cont'd
14.CAPITAL PLANNING ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETING -cont'd
4.2006 DRAFT CAPITAL PLAN -cont'd
d.Funding and Capital Deployment -cont'd
2.Capital Deployment
Mr.Greene noted that the Board report of April 25,2006 entitled "ExistingCapital
Funds"Identified allcapitalfunds available including Proceeds of Disposition,the
Enrolment Pressure Gant,Prohibitive to Repair and other capital reserves.The
report showed howthese funds are committedto known capitalprojects. Any
new funds will be subject to Ministry funding in support of the Capital Plan. The
reportis available onthe Board'swebsiteunder www.tvdsb.on.ca/Good Places
to Learn -Renewing Ontario Schools.
5.INPUT QUESTIONS
Chair Hart asked the three Committee groups to consider the following questions and
provide their input:
• In addition to the factors that the Capital Plan is required to consider,what other
Issues should be taken into account as the Board attempts to address the
pressures it faces?
• Is there a student population size for elementary and secondary schools,
respectively, that is the minimum size needed to provide programming for
students?
• What uses do you suggest could be made of vacant classroom space that would
offset the operational and maintenance costs of under-utilized space ina school?
Responses to the input questions are attached.
6.CONCLUDING COMMENTS
Chair Hart responded to questions posed by committee members.
7.DATE AND TIME OF NEXT MEETING
Chair Hart indicated that the regional sub-committees will meet Independently as issues
arise In their areas.
8.ADJOURNMENT
The meeting adjourned at 9:00 p.m.
G.HART,
Chairperson
2006 June 27...37
12.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd
c.REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE •confd
14.CAPITAL PLANNING ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETING -cont'd
4.2006 DRAFT CAPITAL PLAN -cont'd
INPUT QUESTIONS AND GROUP RESPONSES
Question 1 - In addition to the factors that the Capital Plan is required to consider,what
other issues should be taken into account as the Board attempts to address the pressures
it faces?
Transportation and authority -sharing pubiic/Catholic busing;
Official plan of communities considered;
Equity of program -access
Infrastructure to support school changes;
Safety:
Deliverymodel -change?
Community partnerships
Creative facility use;
Centres of Excellence (technical)
Strathroy model?;
French Immersion enrolment growth and decline;
Boundaries/Student &FFL distribution;
Full-time Senior Kindergarten;
1d-21-year-old population blended with Adult Education;
Communication Plan with public;
Community demographics
Travel time for students and costs;
Out-of-board students -loss of money;
Extra curriculars;
Longerwalk distances -safety factor, more municipal crossing guards;
Provinclal/Federal/Flrst Nations goals -Increase bilingualism 50%,need to increase
program spaces;
Community use inside and out - value to community;
School use of other municipal/community physical spaces;
Opportunity forsynergies in delivering program,e.g.libraries,childcare,training.
Question 2 - Is there a student population size for elementary and secondary schools,
respectively,that is the minimum size needed to provideprogrammingfor students?
Flexibility in school model;
Meet the needs of students;
Numbers varyfrom communityto community;
Class cap at all levels;
consider Centres of Excellence;
Housing and programming are to separate Issues;
depends on program, e.g. technical has fewerstudents;
200 students JK-8,elementary minimum;
350 optional for JK-8;
Not as much as an issue In elementary If enough support staff are there;
Too many students is a bigger Issue;
Impact of busing on extracurriculars;
2006 June 27...38
12.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd
c.REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE -cont'd
14.CAPITAL PLANNING ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETING -cont'd
4.2006 DRAFT CAPITAL PLAN -cont'd
INPUT QUESTIONS AND RESPONSES -cont'd
Depends on communitysize and number of chiidren;
Need "desirable"range of programs as defined byindividual communities;
Ideal size is under 1000;
Twinning secondary schoolsforbetter programming,e.g. CollegeAvenue 88 vs.Ingersoii
DCl
"delivering the goods" more important than size;
Specialtycourses needed forPSE-ifcourse notoffered,students mightave togoan extra
year,need funding for part-time students;
Small schools not funded appropriately to deliver programming:
High PTR causes students to suffer; keep class sizes small;
Municipal bylaws (e.g. portables InSt. Thomas);
Maintainingexisting students - loweringthe drop-out rate;
Strategies to provide schools where population is growing;
Loss of students to home schooling,independent schools and Catholic board -Why?-
Parents attracted to new school;
Per student funding vs. municipal assessments -should formula be changed?;
Out-of-area attendance policy - impact on under-utilized schools,e.g.Strathroy
DCI/Medway,Oakridge/Saunders,South/Tecumseh;
Need verification/audit of demographic analysis;
Projected housing growth/business growth;
Boundary Changes:
Secondary program options -semester/non-semester,year round;
More programs to under-capacity schools?
Question 3 -What uses do you suggest could be made of vacant classroom space thatwould
offset the operational and maintenance costs of under-utilized space ina school?
Cafeteria in elementary schools;
Breakfast clubs;
Balanced School Day
Supportservices for children inschools;
Joint libraries;
Flexibility around logistics;
Best Start program;
Employment opportunity centre;
Youth centre;
Smaller class sizes;
Better utilization by Board;
Day care;
Reassignment of portables;
Other sources or funds (Trillium);
Initial Early Years;
Extend school day to accommodate volunteer programs;
Provide more space for volunteers;
Provide space for municipal needs,e.g. libraries,community centres;
Accommodate ethnic and religious communities'teaching needs,e.g.Muslim school;
Shared services at Facilities with coterminous board;
Accommodate and provideprogram for 18-21-year-olds;
Technology training centres, e.g.Oxford Technical Training Centre/College Avenue SS;
University courses;
Look at programneeds ofstudents at an earlyage;
2006 June 27...39
12.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd
0.REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE -cont'd
14.CAPITAL PLANNING ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETING -cont'd
INPUT QUESTIONS AND GROUP RESPONSES -cont'd
Partnerships with local communities to keep students In school until 18, co-op. work
placements;
• FirstNations - signed agreement inprinciple with federations to delivereducation to First
Nations students.
15.REPORT OF THE INFORMATION COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE 2006 June 06
7:12 p.m.-9:20 p.m.
MEMBERS
D.Anstead
J.Bennett
A.Cartier
G.Hart
J.Hunter
P.Jaffe (via
teleconference)
D.Mugford
Absent:J.Henry
Regrets:D. Moulton
S.Peters
T.Roberts
P.Sattler
L.Stevenson
J.Stewart
M.van Gaalen
ADMINISTRATION AND OTHERS
B.Bryce
B.Greene
C.Murphy
M.Sereda
J.Thorpe
D.Blair
K.Dalton
J.Empringham
K.Havelka
S.Hughes
B.Wagner
K.Wilkinson
8.Christie
C.Dennett
G.Owens
W.Scott
1.APPROVAL OF AGENDA
The agenda was approved on motion ofL.Stevenson and carried.
2.CONFLICTS OF INTEREST - No conflicts of interest were declared.
3.CHAIRPERSON'S ANNOUNCEMENTS -None
4.DIRECTOR'S ANNOUNCEMENTS
Director Bryce askedthat Executive SuperintendentGreene provide anupdate regarding
the late release of the Grants for Student Needs from the Ministryof Education.Mr.
Greene reported that he received an OPSBA email advising that the Minister of
Education will be conducting an earlymorning briefing on Monday,2006 June 12.It is
speculatedthatthe Ministry briefing Is regarding the funding announcement.Tnjstees
will be advised ofthe specificdale and time as soon as the infonnatlon is available.
Director Bryce announced thatthe Special Olympics have been scheduled for2006
June 13,14 and 15atTD Waterhouse Stadium,University ofWestern Ontario.
He advised that last week the Ministry announced a transition plan to help Grade 9
studentswhoare struggling In obtaining all the necessary creditsandthatthis additional
initiative will dovetail with the existing Grade 9 programs.
5.PUBLIC PRESENTATIONS -none
6.LONDON CITY POLICE-SECONDARY SCHOOL RESOURCE OFFICERS
Director Bryce introduced and welcomed Murray Faulkner,Chief ofthe London Police
Service and the officers who will be participating in the Secondary School Resource
Officer program.
2QQ6 June 27...40
12.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd
c.REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE -cont'd
15.REPORT OF THE INFORMATION COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE -cont'd
6.LONDON CITY POLICE -SECONDARY SCHOOL RESOURCE OFFICERS -cont'd
ChiefFaulkneradvised that he previouslypresented information regardingthe role ofthe
London SecondarySchoolResource Officer Programatthe2006May02meetingofthe
Infonnation Committee ofthe Whole. As a follow-up to that presentation,he introduced
police officers Michael Donald,Albert Gollanel<.Dennis Rivest,Brad Lobsinger and
Monique Silcox whohave been appointed as Secondary School Resource Officers for
the City of London.Chief Faulkner provided background information regarding each of
the officer's qualifications and vast community experience. Healso Introduced Officers
Buzz Bezaire,Steve McNeil and Rob Black,members of the special projects team.
Trustee Bennett thanked the officers for providing a positive role model for students,thus
reinforcing their support and Involvement inthe school communities.
Chairperson Bennett providedopening remarks regarding the presentations ofthe draft
Capital Plan by regional areas noting that the draft Plan has been submitted to the
Ministry of Education forconsideration and response.
7.DRAFT CAPITAL PLAN -CITY OF LONDON
Board Chair G. Hart explained that the evening's format is different from the 2006 May
23 presentation inthat copies ofthe rationale have been distributedto assist community
members to better understand the process.He advised that the information will be
available on the TVDSB website on June 7.
J.Thorpe,Executive Superintendent,Operations Services,presented an overviewofthe
methodology used initially and generally by the Capital Plan Co-ordinating Committee
and subsequently byall supervisory officers Board wide, by study area,which led to the
specific recommendations in the draft Capital Plan submission.He noted that the
process parallels the Ministr/s intentions province-wide in the Good Places to Learn
document.It is an attempt to bring coherence and commonality of approach to the major
planning Issues whichall boards must address inlightofthe specific issues each faces.
Following that overview,Supt.Thorpe focused specifically on the recommendations for
the London area,co-ordinating his remarks with map references prepared by Planning
Officer G.Owens.He noted the following considerations in developing the
recommendations pertinent to the Cityof London:
•The Administration reviewed demographic data looking for trends and indications
offuture student populations which would be served inthe future.In response to
overall declining enrolment,looking initiallyfor areas where,withor without the use
of capital plan dollars for additions,future student populations could be
appropriately served in fewer schools.
•Areas of growth where new schools could be justified based on forecasted future
enrolment were reviewed.
•Accommodation needs for French Immersion on the basis of a Board-wide,
common deliverymodelofsingletrack where feasible tofurtherequityofapproach
for all students in French Immersion were reviewed.
•Each school's current organization for program to determine if changes could be
recommended in support of greater consistency and equity, if desirable and
possible were reviewed.
2006 June 27...41
12.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd
0.REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE •cont'd
15.REPORT OF THE INFORMATION COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE -cont'd
7.DRAFT CAPITAL PLAN -CITY OF LONDON -cont'd
•Each school facility was examined to seek opportunities for improvement and
enhancements of current school buildings where possible and cost effective based
on its current state and future renewal needs and our ability to bring it up to the
Ontario DisabilityAct requirements,the various program and facility enhancements
such as gymnasiums and arts instruction areas,Primary Class Size and
Community Use standards etc. required by the Good Places to Learn process.
•While the Administration did not undertake the specific and detailed review and
study which would be required if recommendations were to proceed to the next
stages,we did address possible boundary changes and also review and attempt to
minimize the impact on future student transportation in the development of draft
recommendations.
•The same broad criteria to each study area and every school in Thames Valley so
as to allow us to report to you that our results would be consistent,fair,equitable
and objectively applied to every area of our Board. This approach allowed us to
reassure that similar situations would be treated identically throughout the process.
Changes made to the Primary Class Size costs in consultation with Ministryofficials
have increased the value of the London area submission to the Good Places to Learn
Capital Plan process by$2 620 500 from the total reported on 2006 February 28 of
$40 292 000.
The following overview of the City of London was presented.Each of the 11
elementary and 5 secondary study areas comprising the Cityof London was reviewed
in detail by the Co-ordinating Committee and key concepts and possibilities were
identified.These were further screened and prioritized with the Involvement of the
Superintendents of Education so as to produce the specific recommendations forthe
first five years of the draft capital plan.Those items identified involve two other
planning areas—one in Middlesex and one in Elgin,as will be indicated.Those
possibilities chosen as recommendations were selected and prioritized as they
provided the greatest reliefto current pressures In the shortest initial time frame.
The plan calls for an addition to Jack Chambers P.S. to accommodate enrolment in
its current catchment area.That addition is undenA/ay following recent Board approval.
Mr.Thorpe indicated that the report recommends building one new school in the
Stoney Creek area as soon as possible.This would relieve overcrowding in area
schools and end the holding zone designation currently in place for the area to Sir John
A.McDonald P.S.In order to provide appropriate boundaries,reduce the number of
schools operating on a Junior Kindergarten to Grade 6 (JK-6)basis and to reduce
overall numbers of schools the Board continues to operate,Northdale P.S.is
recommended for closure with its resident population reassigned partially to Northridge
P.S.,where they now go for Grades 7 and 8,and partially to the new school.
Because of its location adjacent to A.B.Lucas S.S.and because the land between the
two schools is owned by the Board, in addition to its excellent access to areas north
ofthe current Cityof London limits,the Northdale building is recommended toreceive
a major upgrade and addition to accommodate growing French Immersion (F.I.)
demands from both London and parts of Middlesex County.This would relieve growth
pressure for the future on Centennial Central P.S., on Princess Anne, and on the
HuronHeights F.l.school whichwouldmove tothe Northdalesite. Its present building
would be closed.
2006 June 27...42
12.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd
c.REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE •cont'd
15.REPORT OF THE INFORMATION COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE -cont'd
7.DRAFT CAPITAL PLAN -CITY OF LONDON -cont'd
Additions are also proposed for five other Londonschools. As enrolment declines Inthe
maturing communities In the LaurlerS.S. area,with additionsto both Arthur Stringerand
Nicholas Wilson Public Schools,the future English enrolment could be accommodated In
two schools,not the current three ofwhich the third IsWiltonGrove. Given the locations
ofallthree, the best optionwas to redesignate Wilton Grove as a French
Immersion K-8 school and retain the other two schools with additions to accommodate the
future English program. This would assist In,reducing overcrowding at Princess Anne
which Isthe F.I.school currently most seriously strained InIts capacity to handle growing
F.I.enrolment.
Nomoreportablescan be accommodated onthePrincess Anne site and an addition Isnot
desirable as Itwould Increase enrolment beyond acceptable numbers of students for an
elementaryschoolconsistent with the Plan. The port-a-pakat Wilton Grove,which would
otherwise have to be replaced,could be removed at lower cost to the Board as the school's
enrolment projectionsas an Fl school Indicatethat It,the port-a-pac, wouldnotbe required
to accommodate future Fl enrolment there.
An addition at Kensal Park would complete the changes needed to accommodate the
anticipated F.I. enrolment In the Cityof London for the foreseeable future,as well as
assisting In reducing enrolment pressure on Princess Anne.
The finalmajoraddition proposed inthe Cityof London schools Inthe firstfiveyears would
allow for the reduced future enrolment at both schools to be accommodated at an
expanded A.E.Duffleld P.S. inLambeth,whilethe M.B McEachren school wouldclose.It
is anticipated that the Ministry will designate MB McEachren as prohlbitlve-to-repair as it
would be extremely difficult and costly to bring Itup to standard and itis situated on a very
small and constrained site.
Program additionsforsuch itemsas general arts rooms,gymnasiums and library/resource
centres have been recommended forfunding through the capital plan at Byron Southwood,
Mountsfleld and Northrldge Public Schools as warranted by their present state and/or
enrolment pressures.Banting,Laurier,Lucas,Montcalm andOakridge Secondary Schools
would see upgrading to their Science labs and,where programs exist, to their Specia!
Education and Developmental Centre program areas.
The last section of the update addressed possible school closures.Based on future
declining enrolment In the maturing Old South area,student projections show that the
future population could be accommodated in three ofthe current four schools operating in
the area bounded bythe Thames Riverto the north,Commissioners Road to the south,
Wellington Road to the east and WharncliffeRoad to the west.Those fourschools are
Victoria P.S.In the north-west corner,Wortley Road P.S.and Tecumseh P.S.,three blocks
apart inthe centre and Mountsfleld In the south.
Closingone ofthe twocloser to average size schools was determined to be a better option
to accommodate future reduced enrolment In the area rather than looking to either the
largest,Mountsfleld,or the smallest,Victoria.Ofthe two remaining,Tecumseh P.S. is
recommended for closure as Wortley Road is more centrally located in the area and the
Tecumseh building could be used to address South S.S.'s need for permanenti not
portable classroom space, to accommodate Its currentresident enrolment.There Isno
plan or intention to increase the capacity or future enrolment ofSouth S.S.beyond Its
current numbers,also forecast to decline over time.
2006 June 27...43
12.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES-cont'd
0.REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE -cont'd
15.REPORT OF THE INFORMATION COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE -cont'd
7.DRAFT CAPITAL PLAN •CITY OF LONDON -cont'd
It was noted thata long-term lease with the City of London forthelandon which the City
of London's Farquharson Arena is located,between South and Tecumseh schools,
precluded a pennanent space addition to South S.S. when It was renovated bythe
predecessor London Boardinthe mid-19g0s.That lease with the city extends to 2021.
There havebeen some portables onthe South sitesincethe late1960sand the plan
provides an opportunity to address that issue on a pennanent basis.Atthe time of the
Board'slastrequest fouryears ago toincrease the numberofportablesontheSouthS.S.
site tothe present and maximum todate of nine,the City of London granted permission
foronlyfouryears forthe most recently-installed twoportables to be lefton the siteand,
as a result, two must be removed this year.
As presented in the Elgin area update on 2006 May 23, the plan is to merge the
populations of South Dorchester and Westminster Central schools and to build a new
school closer to Belmont.Ifthis recommendation proceeds to completion,Westminster
Central will close.Because of geographic, land use and municipal service limitations,it
is notanticipatedthat there will be significant future population growth inthis part ofthe
City of London,south of the 401.
Finally,inthe City of London,the Planalso callsforthe closures of Haling,Brick Street
and Manor & Highland Public Schools as their future resident population can be
accommodated at such nearby schools as Trafalgar and Woodland Heights whose
numbers are also forecast to decline.
In summary,the first,draft five-year Capital Plan's recommendations forthe London area
includeone newschool, additionsforgrowthtosix schools,nineprogram-drivenadditions
and renovations,three conversions of current use and six consolidations or closures.
Exec. Supt. Thorpe and Planning Officer Owens responded to questions posed by
Trustees.In response to a question, Supt. Thorpe referred to the 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 ofthe Good Places toLeam document, Is broader in scope and takes close
stockoftheentire inventory ofelementaryandsecondaryschool facilities in relationship
to the numbers of students that the Board will be requiredto serve In the future. Itgoes
well beyond the primary mandate of the Watson report which was accommodation of
pupils.
Supt. Thorpe emphasized that the Administration attempted to bring consistency and
equity of approach to the matter and that some people are not, understandably so,
pleased with the proposed recommendations.
Amendments or alternate recommendations may mean essentially that school
communitiesnot presently affected may also end up facing significant changes.Supt.
Thorpe restated that the draft Plan Isone course of action that attempts to address the
Issues of declining enrolmentand French Immersion growth and, most importantly,has
the potential to positivelyaffect the educational experience and learning outcomes of all
future Thames Valley students.
Trustee Bennett extended appreciationtothe Administration fora comprehensive report.
2006 June 27...44
12.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd
c.REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE -cont'd
15.REPORT OF THE INFORMATIONCOMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE -cont'd
8.MONTHLY REPORT OF THE CHAIR
ChairHartreported that during the month of May,heattendedmanyofthe2006 Education
•Week activities as well as the TharVies Valley Education Foundation Annual Meeting heid
2006 May 10.
He advised that he spent significanttime responding to telephone caiis and emails from
parents and community members over the last three weeks during the
Educational/Instructional Assistant strike.He also attended events across the District that
recognizethe students'participation in violence prevention initiatives.
Chair Hart attended and brought greetings from the Board at the ETFO Year-end
RetirementBanquet on May 31, the Board's Retirement Recognition Receptionon 2006
June 05and planstoattend theOSSTF Retirementevent during theweek ofJune 12.He
will also be attending a number ofgraduation ceremonies duringthe month of2006 June.
9.DEPARTMENTAL UPDATES
The following departmental updates were discussed.
Business Services
-Facility Services Projects and Maintenance updates included:additions at Jack
Chambers PublicSchool, Medway High School, Strathroy DistrictCollegiate Institute;
-School Renewal/Good Places to Learn Projects included:'window replacement projects
tendered and awarded for Laurier,Lucas,and West Elgin Secondary Schools,
Davenport, Northrldge,Lord Roberts, McGregor,Woodland Heights, Southwold, and
Straffordvllle Public Schools for a total value of $2 765 000;
- Boiler Replacement projects tendered and awarded forBanting, Montcalm S.S.,and the
Education Centre for a total value of $1 580 222;
-New water service tendered and awarded for Jeanne Sauv6,Arthur Ford and Victoria
Public Schools (London)for a totalvalue of $103 141;
-Finalizing moves and coordination of permits and services for the relocation of 31
portables;
- Design Committee discussing conceptual design requirements for program and
accommodation needs at Glendale inpreparation for the communitymeeting planned
for the fall;
-Support Services update Included:Distribution Centre, Printing and Mail Services,
Purchasing Services and Transportation Services.A copy of the "2006-07 Guide to
Special Transportation Calendai"'vjas provided.
Director's Services
-During the month of May,Director Bryce attended Education Week events at Ekcoe
Central P.S.Northbrae P.S.,and Huron Park S.S.;
- The Director attended meetings/events as follows:Ministry of Education's Open House
with the Honourable Sandra Pupatello,Council of Presidents,Garrison Community
Council,UnitedWay, BestStart, RegionalEducationCouncil,CEO/CAO,Thames Valley
Education Foundation AGM,and SLOME -London,Oxford,Middlesex,Elgin Career
Exploration Day;
2006 June 27...45
12.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd
c.REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE -cont'd
15.REPORT OF THE INFORMATION COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE -cont'd
9.DEPARTMENTAL UPDATES -Director's Services -cont'd
-Director Bryce brought greetings and/or presented at the Education Week Breakfast for
.Corporate Partners,Canadiana Challenge Finals at the Museum School.Award of
Distinction Celebration,Student Success Teachers'Orientation Session,Retired
Supervisory Officers' and Managers'Dinner, Fifth Annual Leadership In Violence
Prevention Awards Night, ETFO -Thames Valley -Year-End Retirement Banquet,
Thames Valley Teacher Librarian Banquet and Secondary School Principals'Retreat as
the Keynote Speaker;
-The Director met with Kahil Ramal,MPP, and a member of the Summerslde community
re concerns and ideas regarding a school for their community;
- He met with Dr. Don Bondy,Jeff Major and Jennifer Parker to discuss the next stage of
the Starbase Program.;
- He attended the Southwest Economic Assembly with leaders from the business,
government,education and labour sectors to provide an opportunity to collaborate
and develop plans for greater co-operation and find solutions to regional challenges
with the specific focus of ensuring there are sufficient jobs in our region to retain
our high school,college and university graduates;
- Directors Bryce and Rapal attended the public announcement of Bell Canada's pilot
system to assist students withmedical emergencies.The system is intended to provide
a faster response to a student experiencing a medical emergency such as an
anaphylactic reaction to an insect bite or a food allergy.The implementation ofthis pilot
Is being overseen by Program Services;
-Supervisory Officers met with Drs. Lynne Hannay and Lorna Earl to discuss the
framework for continued research in the area of Our Vision and knowledge creation.
They focused on how to frame the research,the working partnership,data collection and
a communication plan;
-Staff Development initiatives included:New Teacher Induction Program,New Teacher
Mentor Program,Administrative Mentoring Program,Facilitating Effectively,Peer
Coaching,Instructional Coaching Awareness Session,Instructional Coaching,and 2006
Learning Conference;
-Public Affairs and Community Relations initiatives included 2006 Education Week,
Thames ValleyEducation Foundation (TVEF),and Lawson LiteraryAwards.
Human Resource Services
-Benefit staffare reviewing next September's premium renewal report as well as assisting
year-end retiring staff with benefit enrollment;
- Disability Management is assisting employees in "return to work"plans as a result of
illness/injury as well as assisting both teaching panels with medical placements as
required under the collective agreements;
2006 June 27...46
12.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES-cont'd
c.REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE -cont'd
15.REPORT OF THE INFORMATION COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE -cont'd
9.DEPARTMENTAL UPDATES -Human Resource Services -cont'd
- Duringthe month of May,the Thames Valley District School Councii (TVDSC)activities
included the following:
- The TVDSC chairperson and vice chair attend the ETFO educational forum.Many
stakeholders in education were also In attendance.The educational panel included
TVDSB Chair and Trustees and the local area MPPs.An open forum allowed questions
concerning educational trends to be posed to the panel;
- Longterm Thames ValleyDistrictand Regional School Council members were honored
with gifts on behalf of the TVDSC. Paul Huston and Brian Feeney both are retiring as
their children reach graduation;
- TVDSC e-mail update was sent out In the month of May;
-Parent Involvement Committee -Ad Hoc
This Interim advisory committee includes six TVDSC representatives.The committee's
purpose is to develop guidelines for the use and reporting structure of the Parent
Involvement Funding Grant.The committee report Is expected to go to the Board by the
end of 2006 November.Currently the committee is developing bylaws and preparing
communication to school parent groups concerning the appropriate use of the grant;
- TVDSC Chair Brenda Hopkins attended a vice principal meeting in CEC South.She was
able to share the role of school councils and the District and Regional School Council;
• The 3'^Annual TVDSC Symposium washeld Friday April 28,atthe Ministry of Education
Office,Toronto.School council members,teachers and principals both elementary and
secondary,school administration and Trustees from 42 Ontario School Boards attended.
This event organized byTVDSC members and principal G.Bereznick included keynote
speaker Kathleen Wynne (Parliamentary Assistant to the Minister of Education).There
was great interest,energy and networking among all in attendance.The organizers are
busy assembling the finalreport and looking ahead to the next symposium.The TVDSB
should plan to attend this worthwhile event;
-Presently,there are 1,521 Occasional Teachers on the listincluding 454 retirees.On the
Long Term Occasional list,there are 287 teachers including 25 retirees:
- HR Is working on next year's allocations and assisting schools with teacher transfers,
headships,and surplus teacher issues as required under the Collective Agreement;
-There are currently 788 secondary occasional teachers on the list.Approximately 32%
are retirees.We have 108 long-term assignments with 11 retirees In those positions;
-In lightof changed job responsibilities,the position of Coordinator of Research Services
recently went through a job evaluation process and has been reclassified at Manager,
Research,Assessment and Accountability effective immediately.
2006 June 27...47
12.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd
c.REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE -cont'd
15.REPORT OF THE INFORMATION COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE -cont'd
9.DEPARTMENTAL UPDATES -cont'd
Operations Services
- Planning ison-goingfor PrincipalA/ice-Principal Professional Developmentfor2006-07.
Consistent with Ministry expectationsand Boardobjectives,emphasis will be onsystem-
wide improvement of student results as measured by performance targets.Dr. Michael
Fullanisscheduled for Novemberand itIshoped that Dr.Loma Earl will present early
in the school year on the use of data in improving student achievement;
- The year-end planning session agenda for Superintendents of Education has been
completed. The day-and-one-half meeting will focus on the 2006-07 school year
priorities,promotional practices/succession planning,andstaff development.Finaldetails
ofplanningforenhancing teacher performance activities fornextyear will awaitbudget
passage;
-Secondary staffing process is proceeding according to timeline.During the firstround
of teacher Initiated transfers, approximately25 teachers were successful in finding anew
teaching experience for2006-07. A second roundofpostings occurred from May 31 -
June 2 with interviews scheduled forJune 05and 06. OnJune 07, Principalswill declare
the vacancies still remaining. Any surplus teacher will be placed in one of those
vacancies on June 09. The hiring process for remaining vacancies will begin on June
13;
- Round three of the Elementary staffing process has been completed during which
surplus teachers and those wishing to increase their entitlement were considered and
accommodated as appropriate.Ail staff,except for20 saved forstaffing anomalies in
the fall,have been distributed. Primary Average Class Sizes are on target of75% at this
time;
Accommodation and Planning
- Community transition meetings were held at Tollgate Central Public School provided
Input to on boundary considerations.A community survey was distributed and results
tabulated.The boundary for Tollgate Central Public School has been recommended as
a result of this process for 2006 September;
-Arc-info software has been installed and is being tested for use in both the Planning
Services area and Research and Assessment.This software is designed to aid inthe
analysis of Information and presentation of maps and data.The maps for the
Administrator Directory 2006-07 will be developed using Arc-info;
A recommended immediaterevisiontothe Longwoods Holding School will designate the
Holding Zone area to White Oal<s Public School (JK-8),as part of the overall
reconfiguration of Ashley Oaks Public School and Rick Hansen Public School as JK-8
facilities beginning with the 2007-08 school year;
- New Administrators met on 2006 May 18th fora session entitled "Building Capacity Using
Protocols". A Protocol is a process of guiding professional learning conversation.The
purpose ofa Protocol isto buildthe skillsand promote the culture necessary forongoing
collaborative learning. AProtocol keeps a group conversation focused,generates helpful
conversations and feedback,promotes thoughtfulness by allowing personal reflecting
time within a group conversation,encourages lively dialogue featuring multiple
perspectives and requires any individuals presenting their personal work to remain silent
so that the feedback and insights offered from their colleagues are not lost.
2006 June 27.-48
12.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd
c.REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE -cont'd
15.REPORT OF THE INFORMATION COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE -cont'd
9.DEPARTMENTAL UPDATES -Operations Services -cont'd
Atthe end ofthe Protocol session,Scott Hughes presented the graduates fromthe New
Administrators'Sessions with their certificates.The next year's sessions for New
Administrators will begin on Friday,June 16th.
Research &Assessment
- Projects completed ormajorprojectcomponents undertaken/completedduring2006May
byResearch and Assessment Services included;
-Canadian Achievement Tests (Grade 2 Language)reports prepared and distributed
to PFE schools;
Report completed focus groups forthe SEACmeeting project;
Division level -School reports designed for the safe schools survey;
- Analyses and completionof report for French perception survey;
- Template and guidelinesforthe elementary target setting designed and distributedto
principals;
Phonological awareness -data scanning,checking, and reports development
underway;
Filepreparation completed to receive DRA assessment Information from teachers;
- School boundary input continuing using mapping software;
Creation of new community of schools maps using new mapping software;
- Supportfor May EQAO testing provided toschool staffand principals;
Data entry for post-intervention story retell project completed;
- Analysis of EQAO data by gender completed and Board report prepared;
Logfunding tracking and preparation of expenditure reports;
-Committee work -MISA,TVNELP,Pathways,Hearing Review,Profile Input,
Leadership Self-Review;
Analysisand report preparation ofschool survey data unden/vay at several schools;
- Attended a workshop on powerpoint,access database,mapping software ;
- Participationin assessment literacytrainingconducted by Secretariat;
Revise reporting procedures to implement Regulation403/05;
-Address significant issues related to MISA requirements/standards inthe reporting of
Secondary Class/Course Enrolments,Average Class Size,and OnSlS submissions;
Develop an Interface tosupply EQAO grade 3 &6 Reading,Writing,and Mathematics
assessment results to the Skopus data warehouse;
- Analysisof reading and math school level assessments for end of year school-based
assessments and school improvement;
Development of on-line survey for collection of leadership self review data and
preparation of draft report;
-Development of data collection method for 06-07 Reconnect;
Data entry and analysis completed for boys literacysurveys;
Data entry of semester two feedback forms on violence prevention initiatives
completed and analysis/report preparation underway;
EQAO survey summary reports completed;
- Math software in-service summary report prepared;
Hearing impaired review survey development.
Safe Schools
Safe Schools initiatives included:Leadership in Violence Prevention,Ventriloquist/
Puppeteer Yvette Locke,Kids onthe Block,Stand By Me,StepstoRespect,Stand Up
Against Bullying & Stand Up For Respect,SAVE Conference,Tribes, Drama
Presentations,Violence Prevention Speaker Eva Olsson and The Fourth R;
2006 June 27.»49
12.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd
c.REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE -cont'd
15.REPORT OF THE INFORMATION COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE -cont'd
9. DEPARTMENTAL UPDATES -OperationsServices -cont'd
Committee to Review the Environment of Safety in Our Schools
-Secondary schools have developed and reflected on their individual Safe School
Action plans.Elementary schools have reviewed their Safe Schools survey results and
are currently being facilitated inbrainstorming sessions to identifykey Ideas related to
bullyingthat theyfeel are Importanttofocus on at their school.Elementary schools will
each be developing their action plans in the fall which will focus on how to prevent
bullying and how to encourage students to report Incidents.
Program Services
Information Technology Services update included:
To maximize the money available for elementary non rural (urban)school libraries,
a plan was designed to encourage principals to Invest in their school library
collections.Each school was given a basic $1 000 to purchase resources fortheir
own school library,to increase this amount the principals were invited to deposit
Into a program services account additionalfundingupto$1000. Thisfundingwas
matched dollarfor dollar.All 105 elementary schools participated in the match up
funding offer. Eighty-five schools transferred $1 000 from their school funds,
twelve schools deposited $500 -$900,and eight schools invested more than the
$1000 amount.The basic amount of the funding was $265 000 from surplus funds
and after the match up It became $383 375;
On May 4"^at the Multl vendors' sale at the Western Fairgrounds, all schools
participated using Ministry funds as well as the "non-rural"surplus provided bythe
trustees.The rural schools spent the approximately $600 000 provided from that
fund while the non-rural schools were allocated the system $265 000 as well as
their portion of the last minute $600 000 Ministry money.Each ofthe schools was
givenTVDSB vouchers Inthe amount of$500. The majorityofthe schools had six
vouchers worth $3000 to spend at any vendor or vendors of their choice at the
sale.Purchases at the vendor sale gave greater buying power with discounts up
to 35%.Ail purchases were shipped to cataloguing services for complete
processing and cataloguing;
As part ofthe budget surplus the IT department was given$500 000 to spend on
improving technology across the Valley.Each Learning Coordinator in
consultation with their schools determined the best approach to spending the
budget surplus based on individualschool needs.Some schools were In need of
an upgrade in computer equipment while others expressed a desire to move to
new technology such as the SMART Boards to help support literacyand numeracy
goals.A summary of the purchases is listed below:
625 Computers -$195 500
145 SMART Boards-$257 520
36 Data Projectors -$ 37 053
5 Laptops -$ 7 009
165 Headphones -$1497
1 Video Camera -$ 1 021
30 Mice-$310
- As a result of the Board's Surplus funding,since January,students across our
Board have not had to pay fees for attending our three Environmental Centres -
Jaffa, Vansittart, and Westminster Ponds/Pond Mills,to the removal of fees.
2006 June 27...50
12.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd
c.REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE -cont'd
15.REPORT OF THE INFORMATION COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE -cont'd
9. DEPARTMENTAL UPDATES -Program Services -cont'd
Some Centres have reported increased attendance and fev\/er cancellations than
previous years due.Overaii,staff have received much appreciation and positive
feedback from visitors to the Centres.We have been very grateful of the Board's
support through the surplus funds to enable this to occur for the betterment of our
students'access to environmental education programming;
Special Education
- Several projects/partnerships have been established and/or organized to service, to
a broad extent,students who are struggling vt/ith mental health issues.One difficulty
encountered was the hiring of staff.Experienced teachers were very reluctant to
leave their assignments and apply for a half-year position.Therefore,on-going
dialogue is occurring witha variety ofcommunity partners and itis hoped that unspent
monies allocated to mental health can be carried over to the next school year so that
projects can be realized;
A summary of the following new projects/partnerships completed or in development
was presented:
• Trainingof elementary LSTs inthe area ofsuicide prevention ($4 000);
• Development of a TERT resource manual ($16 000);
•Future training of secondary LST/guidance personnel in the area of suicide
prevention ($2 000);
•On-going meetings with the management team at Ministryof Children and Youth
Services
•Partnership with U.W.O. Faculty of Medicine,Fanshawe College and Thames
Valley District School Board - a series of 12 workshops re: working with children
with mental health issues ($13 000);
•Westmount Mall,London Middlesex CAS and TVDSB - a program working with
extreme behavioural challenges
• Elgin County School-Based Children's Mental Health Support Program.A
partnership with Elgin & Family Counselling Centre,Family and Children's
Services,Ministry of Children and Youth Services and Thames Valley District
School Board ($40 000);
•Oxford Child and Youth Centre,TVDSB partnerships
• Preliminary discussions have occurred withthe Boys and GirlsClub re: setting up
off-site supports;
• Stillexploring an Itinerantstaff position (to be determined)to support students in
schools across the District
Approval has been given fora Sound Field System Pilot Project and the FM Systems
have been purchased withinstallation to be completed by June 15 at Glen Cairn P.S.(
10 units) and Ekcoe Central P.S. ( 9 units). An FM unit has been placed in one
classroom at each grade level in each of the schools.A report will be completed by
PhonicEar which compares the student improvement in learning in the classroom with
the FM System and the classroom without. The report will be completed In the next
school year in order to givean appropriate amount of time forsoliddata.
2006 June 27...51
12.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd
c.REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE •cont'd
15.REPORT OF THE INFORMATION COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE -cont'd
9.DEPARTMENTAL UPDATES -Program Services -cont'd
- Applied Studies and Arts
- Music instruments in Thames Valley District School Board have been in use for
many years and individual schools with instrumental programs have had the
responsibility to repair them or purchase new ones to replace instruments beyond
repair. Central funding was allocated for the repair and replacement of musical
instruments in2004 from Program Services Inthe amount of$35 000 per year to
assist schools with urgent needs,but this money was barely enough to help a few
schools;
In 2005 November a campaign was introduced to recover as many instruments as
possible which may have inadvertently been leftat home,orto accept any donated
instruments.Approximately twelve instruments were recovered or donated;
The following tool<place as a result of the $200 000 from surplus funds for the
replacement or repair of musical instruments:
Process:
• in December,all schools with instrumental programs were informed of this
initiative and were asked to send In their full inventory of musical instruments;
• a committee comprised of twelve Instrumental music teachers (representing
guitar,wind and string programs and all former boards ),one secondary
principal one elementary principal,one purchasing representative,an
instrumental repair specialist and the Learning Coordinator for Music met in
January to begin the process ofallocatingthe $235 000;
•the committee established that the consideration for funding would be based
on the following criteria for each school:
-number of students taking instrumental music;
-ratio of students to instruments;
-condition of existing Instruments.
•the priorityof the committee was to ensure that as many students as possible
had access to an Instrument to play (2:1 ratio or student:instrument);
• the repair/replacement committee met a second time and allocated the funds
based on the established criteria and Inventory;
•schools were Informed of their allocations and guidance on how to access this
funding on February 06;
•Program Services and Purchasing are working cooperatively:
- to ensure that bulk purchasing of Instruments is secured at lowest prices;
- to monitor the process so the schools are spending the funding as it is
intended (detailed Invoices and purchase orders must be approved priorto the
completion of sale).
Statistics:
• 81 Elementary schools with musical Instruments sent In the "request for
funding" Information and music Instrument inventory lists;
•Three do not currently have a program due to staffing issues;
• all27 Secondary Schools with instrumental music programs responded;
• all schools that requested funding received an amount, which ranged from
$500 to $8 500;
• allgoods should be received by2006 June 23;
• allrepairs should be completed by2006 July30;
2006 June 27...52
12.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd
c.REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE -cont'd
15.REPORT OF THE INFORMATION COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE -cont'd
9.DEPARTMENTAL UPDATES -Program Services - cont'd
•as of May 2006 30,schools have spent:
$181 429.61 in new instruments
$ 17 053.27 in repairs
Total $198 482.68
Outstanding $ 36 517.12
Many moreofthe repairs will be completed bytheend ofJulyas the repairshops
do majoroverhauls when the students are not in class.
The Music teachers,schools and students are extremely grateful for this financial
assistance,which is going to provided TVDSB students with new and working
Instnjments.Several comments from schools from emails,or postings on the
Teacher Centre (Music)site on First class were provided thanking Trustee for
supportingstudents andMusicPrograms across the Valley.ProgramServices will
continue to allocate fundingfor repairs inexisting programs on an annual basis for
urgent need.
Language and Social Sciences •
The shared reading Initiative was a joint venture between TVDSB and the
Secretariat.To begin,each school received one day of face-to-face training for
everyjunior teacher and principal.The principals came inearly February witha
small team consisting of their lead literacy teacher and grade 6 teachers.The
grade 4 and 5 teachers came fortraininginMarchand early April.Atthis training,
roles were discussed,shared reading was defined,exemplary lessons were
examined and timewas givenfor team discussion and planning.Once the face-to-
face trainingwas completed,schools received a total of 5 consolidation days.
These days were intendedtofurthersupport the implementation process.Schools
took advantage of this opportunity to:
• support collaborativeplanningand timetabling;
•create data walls;
• further develop understanding through exploratory reading and study;
•review of resources.-
In addition to the release time,schools also shared in a variety of resources to be
used explicitly for shared reading instruction.Posters,charts,trade books and
magazines-spanning a wide array of topics and genres were purchased and
distributed.Care was taken to ensure that:
the materials addressed cross-curricular needs;
demonstrated a variety of text features,structures and formats;
were a balance of fiction and non-fiction;
would not duplicate current school resources;
were appealing and interesting.
Feedback from principalsand teachers has been incrediblypositive.
2006 June 27...53
12.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd
c.REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE -cont'd
15.REPORT OF THE INFORMATION COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE -cont'd
9. DEPARTMENTAL UPDATES -Program Services -cont'd
Supt.Murphy provided an update regarding the Reading Recovery initiative.The
Administration responded to question posed by Trustees.In response to a concern from
Trustee Roberts regarding the Importance of recruitingnew teachers immediately,Supt.
Sereda advised that when the fourth round of the stafflng process is completed Human
Resource will review the lists and begin accepting new applicants at that time.Director
Bryce noted that during April/May new teachers are being issued a certification number
from the Ontario College of Teachers (OTC) in order to apply for a teaching position.
In response to a request by Trustee Peters,Supts.Thorpe and Blairwill prepare an update
regarding small secondary school stafflng for presentation at the 2006 June 13 Committee
of the Whole meeting.
10.ADJOURNMENT
The meeting adjourned at 9:20 p.m.on motion J.Stewart.
J.BENNETT.
Chairperson
16.ADJOURNMENT
The meeting adjourned at 11 ;10 p.m. on motion of L.Stevenson.
G.HART,
Chairperson
RECOMMENDATIONS FROM THE 2006 JUNE 13 COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING
-That effective 2007 September 01 for Grade 7 pupils, and 2008 September 01 for Grade 8 pupils,
Ashley Oaks and Rick Hansen Public Schools be re-designated JK-8 schools.
That a transition team (or teams if appropriate)be established by the Superintendent of Education
for the schools affected to facilitate the implementation of these recommendations and to report
findings to the Board by the end of 2007 February.
-That the boundary for HIckson Central Public School be amended to include the area of Tollgate
Central Public School along a north-south line west of and excluding 78383 on County Road 33,
and west of and Including 745355 on County Road 17 to PIttock Lake.
That the boundary for Innerkip Central Public School be amended to Include the area of Tollgate
Central Public School along a north-south line east of and including 78383 on County Road 33,and
east of and excluding 745355 on County Road 17 to PIttock Lake.
- That Tollgate Central PublicSchool Englishprogram students currently registered at Tollgate for
the 2005-06 school year,who reside withinthe newly-designated portion of the Innerkip Central
PublicSchool boundary,may,for2006 September 01 admission only,opt to attend Hickson Central
Public School with transportation provided on a grand-parented basis until they complete their
elementary program,provided that theirregistration at HIcksonCentral PublicSchool Is continuous.
-That the flnal report of the Bylaw Review Committee be submitted directly to the Board at its
meeting on 2006 June 27 to providethe Committee sufflcienttime to complete itswork.
2006 June 27...53
12.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd
c.REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE -cont'd
15.REPORT OF THE INFORMATIONCOMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE -cont'd
9. DEPARTMENTAL UPDATES -Program Services -cont'd
Supt.Murphy provided an update regarding the Reading Recovery initiative.The
Administration responded toquestion posed by Trustees.In response toa concern from
Trustee Roberts regardingthe importanceof recruiting new teachers immediately,Supt.
Sereda advised that when the fourth round of the staffing process Is completed Human
Resource will review the lists and begin accepting new applicants at that time. Director
Bryce notedthat during April/May newteachers are beingissued a certification number
from the Ontario Collegeof Teachers (OTC)inorderto applyfora teaching position.
In response toa request byTrustee Peters, Supts. Thorpeand Blair will prepare an update
regarding smallsecondaryschoolstaffing for presentation atthe2006June 13 Committee
of the Whole meeting.
10.ADJOURNMENT
The meeting adjourned at 9:20 p.m. on motion J.Stewart.
J.BENNETT,
Chairperson
16.ADJOURNMENT
The meeting adjourned at 11:10 p.m. on motionof L.Stevenson.
G.HART,
Chairperson
RECOMMENDATIONS FROM THE 2006 JUNE 13 COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING
- That effective2007 September 01forGrade 7 pupils,and 2008 September 01 forGrade 8 pupils,
Ashley Oaks and Ricl<Hansen Public Schoolsbe re-designated JK-8 schools.
-That a transitionteam (or teams ifappropriate) be established bythe Superintendent of Education
for the schools affected to facilitate the implementation of these recommendations and to report
findings to the Board by the end of 2007 February.
- That the boundary for HicksonCentral PublicSchool be amended to Includethe area ofTollgate
Central Public School along a north-south line west of and excluding 78383 on County Road 33,
and west of and Including 745355 on County Road 17 to Pittock Lake.
- That the boundaryfor Innerkip Central Public School be amended to Include the area of Tollgate
Central PublicSchool along a north-south line east ofand including 78383 on County Road 33, and
east of and excluding 745355 on County Road 17 to Pittock Lake.
- That Tollgate Central PublicSchool Englishprogram students currently registered at Tollgatefor
the 2005-06 school year, who reside within the newly-designated portion of the Innerkip Central
PublicSchool boundary,may,for2006 September 01admission only,optto attend HicksonCentral
Public School withtransportation provided on a grand-parented basis until they complete their
elementary program,provided thattheir registration at Hickson Central Public School Iscontinuous.
- That the final reportof the Bylaw Review Committee be submitted directly to the Board at its
meeting on2006June27to provide the Committee sufficient time to complete Its work.
2006 June 27...54
12.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd
After a discussion related to adding additional secondary teachers to the small secondary staffing
component, the following motion was moved byS.Peters and seconded byJ.Hunter:
That 4.0 PTE teachers be added to the secondary teacher complement In order to help
meet the needs of the students at Glencoe DIHS and North Middlesex DHS.
Trustee P.Sattler requested that Trustee Peters comment on the appropriateness ofdeferring a
decision to next weel<when the Budget will be discussed.Trustee Peters Indicated that students
feel they need to make course decisions now. Exec. Supt. J. Thorpe commented that course
selections are routinely made In April and questioned the timingofthe request.He suggested that
course cancellations occur around the second week ofApril.Trustee P.Jaffe commented that any
extra moneyforstaffingshould be allocated toallneedy schools with pressures rather than naming
specific schools. He indicated he wanted to know all the choices in the Budget through an
administrative report to advise of secondary needs and inclusion in the budget process.Trustee
Anstead supported Trustee Jaffa's concern that trustees wouldbe micro-managing the system if
the motion was approved out of the Budget process.
The following amendment was moved by P.Jaffe and seconded byJ.Stewart:
That the names of the schools be deleted from the original motion.
Chair Hart ruled that the amendment was not appropriate in that it significantly altered the intent of
the motion.It was subsequently withdrawn.
The following amendment was moved byJ. Stewart,seconded byP. Jaffe:
That 4.0 PTE teachers be added to the secondary teacher complement In order to help
meet the needs of small secondary schools.
Trustee Stewart suggested that the matter be deferred to the Budget process and discussion on
July 4.
Trustee A.Cartier indicated his concern that the amendment Is a contrary amendment.Student
Trustee Moulton felt the students at Glendale and Norwich high schools are unable to access
courses that willallow them to graduate.Supt.K. Wilkinson indicated the priorities would not be
for the courses cancelled butwould be applied to higher pressure courses for In order to serve the
greatest number ofstudents at the schools. Trustee D.Anstead challenged the appropriateness
of the amendment noting Itsignificantly changes the intent of the original motion.
The amendment was allowed and was defeated on a tied, poll vote as follows:
YEAS:Hunter.Jaffe,Peters,Sattler,Stevenson,Stewart
NAYS:Anstead,Bennett,Cartier,Hart, Mugford,Roberts
ABSTENTIONS:None
Student Trustee Moulton -nay
Student Trustee van Gaalen -nay
The original motion was defeated on a Poll Voteas follows:
YEAS:Cartier,Hart,Hunter,Mugford,Peters
NAYS:Anstead, Bennett, Jaffe, Roberts, Sattler,Stevenson,Stewart
ABSTENTIONS:None
Student Trustee Moulton -nay
Student Trustee van Gaalen •nay
2006 June 27-55
12.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd
A motion to sit past 11:00 p.m. to 11:30 p.m.was adopted on motion of J.Stewart and J.Bennett.
d.REPORT OF THE NATIVE ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETING 2006 June 13
3:00 p.m.
Members
J. Henry,Trustee (Chair)
J.Bennett,Trustee
Administration and Others
J.Antone,Native Counsellor
P.Cornelius,Native Counsellor.
E.Good,Learning Coordinator
C.Graves,Learning Supervisor
V.Hopkins,Native Counsellor
M.Hubert,Corporate Services
Regrets:G.McGahey
Absent:A.Cartier,R.Doxtator,M. Elijah,
C.Dolson
Guests:L.Stevenson
S.Aibert-Ninham,Chippewas of the Thames
0.VanEvery-Albert,O.K.T.
S.Miiier,Attendance Counselior
C. Murphy,Exec.Supt.Program Services
J.Pasierbel<,V.P.Saunders S.S.
T.Siilaby-Ramsey,Native Counsellor
V.Towell,V.P.Thames S.S.
P. Tufts, Principal, H.B.Beal S.S.
In accordance withBoard By-law 11.6,the meeting was cancelled because ofa lackofquorum at
3:20 p.m.Those in attendance held an Informal discussion.
1.CALL TO ORDER
2.APPROVAL OF AGENDA
3.CONFLICTS OF INTEREST
4.CONFIRMATION OF VOTING MEMBERS
-Trustees J.Henry,J.Bennett,A.Cartier
- O.K.T.Representatives C.Cornelius,M. Elijah
-Chippewas of the Thames S. Aibert-Ninham, G.McGahey
-Munsee-Delaware Nation
5.WELCOME AND INTRODUCTIONS
6.REPORT OF MEETING-2006 May 09
Business Arising from the Minutes
a)Organizational Structure
b)Lacrosse
7.BUSINESS ARISING FROM PREVIOUS MEETINGS
a) AC Askew Award
b) Native Cultural Development Program
8.ABORIGINAL EDUCATION POLICY FRAMEWORK
9.NAC MEETINGS 2006-07 NUMBER AND FORMAT
10.PRINCIPALS'UPDATES
11.ADDITIONAL ITEMS
2006 June 27...56
12.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd
d.REPORT OF THE NATIVE ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETING -cont'd
12.ADJOURNMENT
J.HENRY,
Chairperson
e.REPORT OF THE BYLAW REVIEW COMMITTEE
Trustee D.Anstead introduced the report of the Bylaw Review Committee seeking Board approval
of proposed amendments to Board Bylaws,a revised Board agenda template and an extension to
the final report due date of the Committee.
Since the re-establishment of the Bylaw Review Committee by Board motion on 2006 January 24,
the Committee has held seven meetings to address Bylaw Issues that have arisen since the last
revision in 2004 June.
The major issue that the Committee considered,as a result of a Trustee caucus discussion,was
the recommendation that the Board move to holding two Board meetings per month rather than the
current practice of a Committee of the Whole meeting on the first Tuesday and a Board meeting
the fourth Tuesday ofthe month. Atthe May23 Board meeting, the following motion was approved:
That the Board meeting structure be amended to two Board meetings per month,held the
second and fourth Tuesday of each month other than July and August,effective 2006
September.
After receiving this approval,the Committee considered the various sections that were affected by
this change in meeting structure.The proposed amendments to the following sections were
submitted for trustee approval Indicating wording revisions or additions and proposed deletions;
3.0 -Meetings of the Board;
5.0 -Inaugural Meeting of the Board;
6.0 -Inaugural Meeting of the Chair;
7.0 -Delegations;
8.2 -Duties of the Chair;
8.3 -Rules of Order -Motions Considered at Board Meetings;
8.4 -Rules of Order -Debate;
8.5 -Rules of Order - Voting;
9.0 -Committee of the Whole In-Camera Meetings;
10.0 -Information Committee of the Whole;
11.0 -Standing and Ad Hoc Committees;
12.0 -Chairs'Committee.
Consideration was also given to the Information Committee of the Whole concept.The Committee
felt that publicpresentations would be better suited to a Board meeting where more pertinent
questions could be asked by Trustees and where action/noaction could be taken or indicated
immediately andwherestaffpresentations would reach a wideraudience thaninthe past. Itagreed
that although the Board did not need allten meetings ofthe Information Committee ofthe Whole
currentlyscheduled throughouta year. Itwas Imperative that some meetings be scheduled during
the year to receive more lengthy presentations.Itwas then necessary to reviewthe current Board
meeting agenda format to accommodate items currently addressed at the regular Information
Committee of the Whole meetings.
Atthe 2006 May23 Board meeting,the following motion was approved:
That public and staff presentations be included on regular Board meeting agendas,as
appropriate,with Infonnatlon Committee ofthe Whole meetingscalled during theschoolyear
bythe Chairs'Committee in consultation with the Director,to hear expanded presentations
from staff, for example Our Vision, Budget, and EQAO results.
2006 June 27...57
12.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES-cont'd
e.REPORT OF THE BYLAW REVIEW COMMITTEE -cont'd
The draft templatewas reviewed Indicating the proposedagenda itemsforthe first and second
Boardmeetingsofthemonth,recommendingthat public and administrative presentations bemade
at the firstmeetingand the Departmental Updates and Chair'sSummary at the second meeting.
ItIs further recommended that "Confirmation of Minutes"be expanded to Include "Business Arising
from the Minutes",and"Good News" be included with "Questions by Members" to "Questions/
Commentsby Members".Upon approval,this fonnat will be used forBoardmeetingscommencing
In 2006 September.
RECOMMENDATIONS:
1.That proposed amendments to the Board Bylawsbe approved.
2. That the draft template for Board meetings be approved.
3. That the time lineforsubmittingthe finalreport ofthe Bylaw ReviewAdHocCommittee to the
Board be extended to 2006 November 30 to provide the Committee additional time to consider
Issues that have arisen.
Trustee Jaffe questioned the committee's concern over placards In the Board Room.Trustee
Anstead responded that the police have indicated they are a safety issue and should not be
pennitted. itwas agreed that this issue (3.6)as well as Items related to takingactionstemming
from public presentations (3.6,7.1.5 and 7.3.7)would bereferredbacktothe Committeeforfurther
consideration.
The recommendations were adopted on motion of D.Anstead and J.Stewart.
f.REPORT OF THE CHAIRS'COMMITTEE 2006 June 21
2:00 p.m.-3:30 pm.
COMMITTEE MEMBERS ADMINISTRATION AND OTHERS
G. Hart P.Sattler B.Bryce
J.Hunter J.Bennett S.Christie
1.APPROVAL OF AGENDA
The agenda was approved on motion of J.Bennett.
2.CONFLICTS OF INTEREST-none
3.REVIEW OF 2006 JUNE 27 BOARD AGENDA
The agenda forthe June 27.2006,Boardmeetingwas discussed and updated. DirectorBryce
Indicated he has a commitment which will cause him to arrive after the start of the meeting.
Executive Superintendent J. Thorpe will serve as acting Director until his arrival.
4.CORRESPONDENCE
A letter from MPP S.Peters will be added to the June 27 Board agenda under
"Communications".
5.FIRST NATIONS REPRESENTATION ON OPSBA BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Director Bryce advisedthat OPSBA has approved the inclusion ofa position ofFirst Nations
Director on the OPSBA Board.First Nation trustees will meet to elect this representative who
will take up the new position intimeforthe 2006-07 school year. Noticeto trustees will be
Included In the OPSBAreport of the June 27 Board meeting agenda.
2006 June 27...58
12.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd
f.REPORT OF THE CHAIRS'COMMITTEE -cont'd
6.BOARD RECOGNITION
Director Bryce indicated that there are severai schools that have been very successful infund
raising campaigns.The ability to recognize all schools'efforts was discussed.It was
suggested that such recognitions should relate system-wide to a particular charity or project,
e.g.cancer,heart and stroke,Red Cross disaster relief, etc.The Administration will be asked
to develop a process to do so.
7.2006 ONTARIO SENIOR ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS
A memo from MPP D.Matthews of London North Centre was received regarding the 2006
Senior Achievement Awards honouring outstanding seniors who,after age 65.have made
significant contributions to their communities.The information has been distributed to Thames
Valley schools for consideration of community members who may qualifyfor the award.The
information will be included on the June 27 agenda under "Communications".
8.NOMINATIONS FOR ONTARIO MEDAL FOR GOOD CITIZENSHIP
Information regarding the 2006 Ontario Medal for Good Citizenship was discussed.The award
recognizes and promotes the virtues of good citizenship and honours Ontarians who,through
exceptional,long-term effort,have made outstanding contributions to lifeintheir communities.
The material will be included on the June 27 Board agenda under "Communications".
9.OTHER BUSINESS
a.Prohibitive to Repair
The Director indicated that the list of schools considered to be prohibitive to repair has
been received.At the June 27 Board meeting.Executive Superintendent B.Greene
and K.Bushell will present information in this regard.
b.Minister Pupatello
Director Bryce advised that Minister Pupatello plans to visit University Heights PS on
June 27.
c. Draft Capital Plan
The draft Capital Plan was discussed.It was agreed that input would be sought from
the new Minister of Education as to the status of the Minister's feedback on the draft
Plan.
d. July4 Special Board Meeting
At the June 27 Board meeting,Executive Superintendent B.Greene will discuss the
potential need fora special BoardmeetingonJuly4 to present the2006-07Budgetto
date.
e.First Nations Self-Identification Program
P.Sattler described a First Nations self-identification policy in place at a northern
board.It has been suggested that a similarpolicy be put in place across the province.
The Information will be referred to the Native Advisory Committee.
10.DATE AND TIME OF NEXT MEETING
The September meetingswere scheduledforSeptember 6 at 9:30 a.m. and the20that
2:00 p.m.
11.ADJOURNMENT
The meetingadjournedat 3:30 p.m. on motion ofJ. Bennett.
2006 June 27...59
12.REPORTS OF COM MITTEES -cont'd
f.REPORT OF THE CHAIRS'COMMITTEE -cont'd
'RECOMMENDATIONS;None
G.HART,
Chairperson
g.REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE OF THEWHOLE -IN CAMERA 2006 June 27
MEMBERS PRESENT ADMINISTRATION AND OTHERS
P.Sattler (Chair)J.Hunter B.Greene S.Hughes
P.Jaffe C. Murphy L.Hutchinson
J.Bennett D. Mugford M.Sereda W.Tucker
A.Cartier S.Peters J.Thorpe B.Wagner
G.Hart T.Roberts D.Blair K.Bushell
J.Henry L.Stevenson K.Dalton S.Christie
J.Stewart K.Havelka C.Dennett
Regrets:D.Anstead
Absent:J. Henry
The Committee met in camera from 5:03 p.m. to 5:50 p.m.
1.APPROVAL OF AGENDA
The agenda was approved on motion of D. Mugford.
2.CONFLICTS OF INTEREST
Aconflict of interest was declared by Trustee P.Jaffe to Item 7 a.,Ratification ofa Tentative
Agreement,citing spousal employment.
3.Confidential legal,negotiations and personal matters were discussed.
4.RISE AND REPORT
A motion to rise and report was moved by J.Stewart at 5:50 p.m.and carried.
RECOMMENDATIONS:
1.That the motions approved at the In-camera session of June 27;2006,related to
ratification of two,tentative agreements be approved.
2.That approval be granted to enter into negotiations with KEV Software to purchase
SchoolCash.NET software for Thames Valley schools.
3.That approval be granted to enter into negotiations withMeritLearning Sales to purchase
Successmaker Software.
PEGGY SATTLER
Chairperson
The recommendations were adopted on motion of P.Sattler,and J.Bennett.