12/18/2007 - Regular Board MeetingTHAMES VALLEY DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD
REGULAR BOARD MEETING,PUBLIC SESSION
2007 DECEMBER 18 P.M.
BOARD ROOM,EDUCATION CENTRE
AGENDA
V-verbal
M -material
1.CALL TO ORDER V
2.O CANADA V
3. SPECIAL MUSICAL PRESENTATION -Aberdeen P.S.Intermediate Choir (London)V
4.APPROVAL OF AGENDA M
5.OFFICIAL RECORD
6.RECOGNITIONS
a.John Thorpe,Acting Director of Education V
7.CONFLICTS OF INTEREST V
8.CHAIR'S ANNOUNCEMENTS V
9.DIRECTOR'S ANNOUNCEMENTS V
10.MINUTES OF THE 2007 NOVEMBER 27 BOARD MEETING,2007 DECEMBER 04 M
SPECIAL BOARD MEETING AND 2007 DECEMBER 11 INAUGURAL MEETING
a.Confirmation of Minutes
b.Business Arising from the Minutes
11.STUDENT TRUSTEES'UPDATE V
12.REPORTS FROM THE ADMINISTRATION
a.2007 Summer School Report M
b.Junior Kindergarten Entry Point for French Immersion M
c.Thames Valley DSB Enrolment Versus Capacity Summary M
d.2006-07 Gifts to Schools Summary M
e.Departmental Updates M
13.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES
a.SEAC Chair's Report of 2007 December 04 V
b.Policy Working Committee,2007 November 27 M
c.Chairs'Committee,2007 December 05 M
d.Chairs'Committee,2007 December 12 M
e.Committee of the Whole,In Camera,2007 December 18 V
14.COMMUNICATIONS
a.Chair's Summary Update V
b.Ontario Public School Boards'Association -Update V
c.C.Saunders,Chief Administrative Officer,Middlesex Centre M
15.NOTICE OF MOTION
16.MOTION -NOTICE OF WHICH HAS BEEN GIVEN -none
17.ADDITIONAL ITEMS
18.QUESTIONS/COMMENTS BY MEMBERS
19.ADJOURNMENT
THAMES VALLEY DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD
REGULAR MEETING,PUBLIC SESSION
2007 DECEMBER 18
The Board met in regular session on 2007 December 18 Inthe Board Room at the Education Centre,meeting
in public session at 7:05 p.m. to 9:20 p.m. The following were in attendance:
TRUSTEES
J.Bennett
F.Exiey
T.Grant
G.Hart
ADMINISTRATION AND OTHERS
J.Thorpe
K.Dalton
L.Elliott
B.Greene
M.Sereda
J.Emprlngham
0.Bourbonnals-
MacDonald
Regrets:K.Patterson
Absent:S.Doub,M.Hendrick
P.Jaffe
8.Peters
S. Polhill (7:30)
T.Roberts
8.Hughes
M.Moynlhan
V.Nielsen
B.Tucker
P.Tufts
B.Wagner
K.Wilkinson
J.Rowe
P.Sattler (Chair)
J.Stewart
R.Tisdale (8:05)
K.Bushell
S.Christie
S.Dawson
C.Dennett
K.Meeson
W.Scott
S.Young
1.CALL TO ORDER.
Board Chairperson Sattler called the meeting to order at 7:05 p.m.
2./3.O CANADA AND MUSICAL PRESENTATION
The appreciation of the Board was extended to the Aberdeen P.S.Intermediate Choir and Conductor
James Gardiner for leading In the singing of O'Canada and performing three musical selections.
4.APPROVAL OF AGENDA
The agenda was approved on motion of T.Roberts,seconded by F. Exiey.
5.OFFICIAL RECORD
S.Christie,Supervisor -Corporate Services,read the following official record Into the minutes:
We regret to record the death of:
Lee Lawrence,an adult student at Strathroy Adult Learning Centre,Strathroy,on 2007
December 02;
Raed Kadri, a 17-year-old student at Westminster Secondary School,London, on 2007
December 05;
Gregory Clark, a Team Leader in Program Services,on 2007 December 06;
-Angela Sedore,a teacher at Ashley Oaks Public School,London,on 2007 December 09;
Isaak Dyck, a 19-year-old student at East Elgin Secondary School,Aylmer,on 2007
December 14;and
Christie Bubel,a teacher at Forest Park Public School,St.Thomas,on 2007 December
17.
2007 December 18...2
6.RECOGNITIONS
a.ACTING DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION
Chair Sattler,on behalf ofthe Board,formally acknowledged and recognized John Thorpe's
exemplary career asan educator.She emphasized Mr.Thorpe's significant contribution in his
present role of Acting Director of Education,thanking him for postponing his retirement in order
to guide the Board through a transition period until a search for the new Director was completed.
Chair Sattler provided the following anecdotal remarks entitled.The Top Ten Things We'll Miss
Mosr.
"We wanted to recognize Johnat tonight's Board meeting - hislast official meeting as our
Interim Director of Education and to formally express our appreciation forhis stepping in
following the departure of Bill Bryce.
John graciously agreed toserveas interim director at extremely short notice,and without any
entry plan or orientation to the role.He not only managed to keep us afloat for four months,
buthas alsomade significant advances in the affairs ofthe Board.For thatwethank him
very much.
Typically modest,John has asked meto be brief tonight.In respect ofthose wishes,I
thoughtI would share the "Top Ten Things We'll Miss Mosf aboutJohn Thorpe.
Number Ten- his recall ofthe dayswhenhe was principal at Clarke RoadS.S. We're all
familiar with the book All I Really Needto Know ILearnedin Kindergarten ...well forJohn,
itall seemed to come together at Clarke Road.
Number Nine - hisdirectness. John does not pull anypunches inthe advicehe offerstothe
board. As he explained ina recent well-publicized appearance in Woodstock:"it iswhatit
is".
Number Eight - his gift ofthegab. Thismayseem to contradict Number Nine,butJohnhas
awaywith words thatmakes whatever hesaysseem dignified and eloquent.In the tradition
• of his hero Stephen Lewis,John is trulyone of Thames Valley's great orators.
Number Seven- hisuncanny ability tocome right tothe line (without crossing over)during
trustee debates.John has a knackof knowing exactlywhenitisappropriatetointervene with
missing information to help trustees come to a decision.
Number Six - his chicken scratch handwriting (not the most effective means of
communication,since itrequires him to go along with the note to serve as interpreter).
NumberFive- histurnof phrase.Whoamong us will ever again hear "atthe end ofthe day,"
without immediately thinking of John Thorpe?
Number Four - his enthusiastic willingness to do whatever is needed by Thames Valley,
Late one Fridayafternoon, Iarrived at an empty Education Centre onlyto find John happily
answering the phones,successfully resolving parent concems.
Number Three - his abilityto inspire others.Notonly is John highly regarded by his peers
in Thames Valley, but inmy contacts with trustees and administrators through OPSBA,I've
discovered that John has fans all across the province.
Number Two - his fondness for voice mail.One memorable day, 1had the pleasure of
listening to FIVE voice mails In a row, all from John.It goes without saying that all of them
were important.
And the Number One thing we'll miss most about John Thorpe?Definitely his passion for
capital planning and his vision for Thames Valley.
John,we are not sure where we will -end up on this journey you started for us as
Superintendent of Operations,but we all agree it's a road we need to travel,and we
appreciate all you have done for the Board and for the students of Thames Valley.
It's been a pleasure.We will miss you. We wish you and Wendy all the best and we hope
we haven't seen the last of you yet."
2007 December 18...3
6.RECOGNITIONS -cont'd
a.ACTING DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION -cont'd
Director Thorpe responded with the following comments:
"Thank you,Madame Chair, for those very kind words. Ireally would prefer to exit stage
right,quietly and without fanfare. Ihave been profoundly privileged to have had a long and
wonderful career in the service of public education in Ontario and Ontario's children and
youth since Ileftmy birth provinceof Quebec in 1970 because ofmyconcern about its public
education system of that day.
The opportunity to serve as your Acting Director has been the icing on my career cake
following exciting opportunities in classrooms,school offices and stints ofvarying lengths in
allyour executive superintendencies except that of treasurer forwhich1had absolutely no
credentials! 1leaveyouat a time,the beginning ofyourtenthanniversaryas Thames Valley,
when you have never been better posed to take this system forward in huge steps.When
you rebalance your student programvs. school inventoryspending, nothing will stop youfrom
leading a board which will be second to none in educating all students to their potential, in
21 century schools.You have new leadership which has outstanding potential in Bill Tucker
and his excitingteam ofcommitted supervisory officers. Icould notface ending my career
at a better time than this.
In.leaving,inadditionto thankingyouall.1want to pay particulartributeand offermy sincere
thanks to mysupervisory officer colleagues and to the superior staff who support us directly
for their patience for and tolerance of me and their support in recent years and particularly
inthe iast four months.Finally,without Wend/s willingness to let me break the retirement
pact we had made, Icould not have filled this role and to her Iam uniquelygrateful and
indebted,as always."
7.CONFLICTS OF INTEREST -No conflicts of interest were declared.
8.CHAIR'S ANNOUNCEMENTS
ChairSattler extended appreciation to allSupervisory Officersfortheir hard workover the past year
and emphasized that the Trustees are indebted to the commitment they demonstrate to the Board.
She noted that the Trustees anticipate a great future for Thames Valleyand are looking to moving
forwardand buildinga stronger public education system together.Chair Sattler also wished everyone
a safe,joyful and happy holiday.
9.DIRECTOR'S ANNOUNCEMENTS
Exec.Supt.K. Dalton reported on the upcoming Medway/Montcalm Secondary School twinning
project.She advised that a letter has been received from the Regional Ministryof Education office
granting approval for the twinning and confirming that the project may proceed.
Exec.Supt.Dalton commented on the communication and plans underway with the parents,staff and
students at Montcalm and Medway S.S.as the twinning project moves ahead.
10.MINUTES OF THE 2007 NOVEMBER 27 REGULAR BOARD MEETING,2007 DECEMBER 04
SPECIAL BOARD MEETING AND 2007 DECEMBER 11 INAUGURAL MEETING
a.CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES
Trustee Grant noted that item 14.d.Report of the Audit Committee recommendation four of the
2007 November 27 Regular Board minutes should be amended to read:
"Thatthe balance of the 2006-07 operating surplus of $6,477 be transferred to Internally
Restricted Reserves for future use as approved by the Board."
2007 December 18...4
10. MINUTES OF THE 2007 NOVEMBER 27 REGULAR BOARD MEETING,2007 DECEMBER 04
SPECIAL BOARD MEETING AND 2007 DECEMBER 11 INAUGURAL MEETING -cont'd
a.CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES -cont'd
Trustee Exiey advised that there will be changes to the Capital Planning AdvisoryCommittee
membership under Eigin Municipality (item 14.e. recommendation 1). A revised list will be
brought forward to a subsequent Board meeting for approval.
Theminutes of the Regular Board Meeting,2007 November 27,were adopted,as amended,on
motion T.Grant,seconded by F.ExIey.
The minutes of the Special Board Meeting, 2007 December 04 were adopted on motion of T.
Grant,seconded by F.ExIey.
The minutes of the Inaugural Board Meeting,2007 December 11 were adopted on motion of T.
Grant,seconded by F.Exley.
b.BUSINESS ARISING FROM MINUTES -none
11.STUDENT TRUSTEES'UPDATE
Student Trustee Rowe reported that he and Student Trustee Patterson are planning another Student
Advisory Council meeting during the second week of 2008 January.He also advised that they are
wori<ing on new ideas as a result of suggestions from trustees with details to be available in the new
year.
12.REPORTS FROM THE ADMINISTRATION
a.2007 SUMMER SCHOOL REPORT
S.Hughes,Superintendent of Education,introduced a report that summarized the various
activities held during the 2007 Summer School.
Gary Wimmer and Caria Trembley,Vice Principals,Adult &Continuing Education,were
introduced.Ms.Trembley reported that the 2007 Summer School programs operated in 10 Board
facilities.Programs were delivered by 80 teaching staff with a revised budget of $528 518.00.
Ms.Trembley advised that new credit programs remain strong with 828 new credits earned by
students in attendance.
A total of 83 Grade 9 students successfully completed an "improvement credif In mathematics
and 35 Grade 9 students in English allowing them to remain In sync with their Grade 9 cohort.
A total of 24 students registered for the OLC40 course and 23 were successful in meeting the
literacycomponent for graduation.Atotalof45 students earned two Summer Revive cooperative
Education credits and received paid summer employment.
Ms.Trembley presented the following reflections on the changes made to the 2007 Summer
School program:
Providing transportation for students at one centralized spot in each community and
delivering them to the sites for the New Credit and Improvement Credit programs in London
was successful in 2007.It is recommended that this initiative continue In 2008 by offering
line-run bussing from St.Thomas,Strathroy,Tilisonburg,and Woodstock.Additional bus
pick-up points are not recommended because of prohibitive costs.
It Is recommended that the Grade 9-12 Improvement Credit programs be offered at one site
due to low enrolment In these programs.H. B.Beal SS Is being considered as the
Improvement Credit location for summer 2008.There has not been sufficient support in
Tilisonburg,Woodstock,Strathroy,or St.Thomas to run programs in those locations.
2007 December 18...5
12.REPORTS FROM THE ADMINISTRATION -cont'd
a.2007 SUMMER SCHOOL REPORT -cont'd
-The new Credit program increased from 836 students In 2006 to 990 students in 2007.Itis
recommended that the New Credit program be moved from Sir Frederick Banting 88 to
Saunders SS because of a need for more classroom space.
The new two-week Grade 7/8 Literacy/Numeracy programs were great successes.Writing
teams created innovative and engaging curriculum for the students.Overall enrolment in the
Summer School Grade 7/8 Literacy/Numeracy programs increased this summer from 257
students in 2006 to 454 students In 2007.Work on improving curriculum delivery for this
program will be continued.
It is also recommended that The Summer Revive,Specialized Co-operative Education
program be expanded to coincide with the Student Success initiative.There is a great deal
of interest in this program.
The high school "Here I Comell"program will continue to be promoted throughout the system
and within the community.Itis recommended that the program be'offered at seven locations
in 2008.
Itis recommended that the eligibility requirement of a final mark of at least 40 percent in a
course taken during the 2007/08 school year for entry into an Improvement Credit continue
to hold for Summer School 2008.Students with a final mark lower than 40 percent will be
required to repeat the course in the New Credit program.Students wishing to improve a
mark ina course taken during any other school year will also be required to repeat the course
in the New Credit program.
Ms.Trembley extended appreciation to Manager C.Dennett and the Public Affairs and
Community Relations staff for providing extensive media coverage related to the back-to-school
initiative that included the TVDSB featured in an article published in The Globe and Mailon 2007
September 03.
Chair Sattler thanked Ms.Trembley for the informative report.
b.JUNIOR KINDERGARTEN ENTRY POINT FOR FRENCH IMMERSION
Director Thorpe introduced a report in response to trustee direction provided at the Board meeting
of 2007 November 13th where the following motion was approved:
That the Board support,in principle,the concept ofjunior kindergarten entry into
French Immersion and direct administration to prepare a report on how this could be
implemented.
In response to public input and a desire expressed to Trustees for earlier introduction of the
French Immersion program in Thames Valley,the Administration prepared a report which was
presented to Trustees on 2007 November 13. In response to that report,Trustees directed that
an implementation plan be developed and presented to them.This report represents the results
of that process.
In the course of discussion,it was suggested that a pilot project for early and earlier introduction
of French Immersion could be undertaken.Based on the fact that a significant number of boards
in the province of Ontario which offer French Immersion introduce it in Junior Kindergarten,it
would appear that there is not a great deal to be learned by a pilot project,if Trustees do,
indeed,believe that Junior Kindergarten should be the introductory level for French Immersion
instruction,then no pilot project is necessary.
2007 December 18...6
12.REPORTS FROM THE ADMINISTRATION -cont'd
b.JUNIOR KINDERGARTEN ENTRY POINT FOR FRENCH IMMERSION -cont'd
It was also suggested that an earlier entry point for French Immersion could be entertained in
schools inwhich accommodation is available currently to do so.In most of the current French
Immersionsites, the ohiyway thatJunior Kindergartencouldbe Introducedwouldbe by providing
additional portables and moving more senior grades into portable classrooms.At all of the
French Immersion schools,the introduction of Junior Kindergarten would eventually require the
provision of permanent space.It is,therefore,recommended that planning be authorized to
accomplish this goal,rather than introducing the program on a piecemeal or ad hoc basis.There
are many challenges associated with less than full implementation,particularly related to which
students would and which students would not be accepted into a program.It is not
recommended that the program be introduced on this basis.Itis an important principle of equity
that,if Trustees believe that the program has merit, it should be available to all eligible pupils.
Hence,the Administration would not recommend a phased implementation but rather a planned
and full implementation when it is possible to do so from both a financial and pupil
accommodation perspective.
While the November 13 report provided only estimates of potential costs,there was no question
that the earlier introduction of French Immersion would have additional costs associated with it.
Since declining enrollment negatively affects the amount of money available annually from the
provincial government for Thames Valley District School Board budget purposes,the
introduction of a new program would necessitate the reduction in other areas or aspects of the
Board operation.Since the Board has undertaken a new process of review and development of
its budget priorities, itwould be premature for a French Immersion decision to bypass the budget
review process.Hence,it is not recommended that the Introduction of Junior Kindergarten
French Immersion occur outside the budget review process.Ifthis isto be a priorityof the Board,^
it is necessary to determine how itwill be funded.
From Administration's perspective,ItIsnot desirable orwise to introduce new program initiatives
with attendant costs until the Board's capital planning and accommodation review processes
allow for savings In current operation be applied to new priorities. For these reasons,it is not
recommended that an early start to French Immersion occur,but rather that the possibilityof
extending to a Junior Kindergarten entry point for French Immersion be reviewed and referred
to both pupil accommodation and budget processes as well as the terms of the Government's
program and funding for full day Junior and Senior Kindergarten when made available to the
Board.
The Government of Ontario,in the most recent election campaign,indicated that extension of
funding and accommodation grants to allow for the extension of Senior Kindergarten first and
Junior Kindergarten the subsequent year to full-time would occur in the second half of its current
mandate.On 2007 November 27,Premier McGuinty appointed Dr.Charles Pascal,currently
Chair of the Board of EQAO,to undertake a review of the recommendation to extend
Kindergarten programs to full-time in Ontario schools.The implementation of this commitment
may afford opportunities to the Thames Valley District School Board to co-ordinate with the
Introduction of the JK entry point for French Immersion.
RECOMMENDATIONS:
1. That Trustees direct Administration to include in the capital planning process and in the
budget development process,the introductionofa Junior Kindergarten entry pointfor French
Immersion.
2.That when a Junior Kindergarten entry point is introduced for French Immersion,it be done ('
on a Board-wide basis.
The recommendations were moved on motion of G. Hart,seconded by T. Grant.
Recommendation 1 was carried.
t
2007 December 18...7
12.REPORTS FROM THE ADMINISTRATION -cont'd
b.JUNIOR KINDERGARTEN ENTRY POINT FOR FRENCH IMMERSION -cont'd
RECOMMENDATIONS -cont'd
The following amendment to Recommendation 2 was moved by Trustee Grant,seconded byJ.
Bennett and carried:
That the word "when"be replaced withthe word "if and that the word"done" be replaced with
the word "planned".
Recommendation 2,as amended,was carried:
That ifa Junior Kindergarten entry point is introduced for French Immersion,it be planned on
a Board-wide basis.
c.THAMES VALLEY SB ENROLMENT VERSUS CAPACITY SUMMARY
Exec. Supt.K.Daltonprovided Introduced the report on Enrolment/Capacity Summary.
K. Bushell,Manager,Facility Services,advised that the report summarizes the 2007-08
PreliminaryOn-The-Ground (OTG)capacityoftheschool versus the 2007 October 31 Full-time
Equivalent(FTE)count as requested bythe Board at Itsmeeting of2007 November 27. Itwas
noted that 2007-08 revisions to the SFIS with respect to changes in the OTG and the 2007
October 31 FTE count have not been validated by the Ministryof Education.
The summary included all schools listed alphabetically;2007 October 31 FTE vs Preliminary
2007-08 OTG;schools at 100 percent capacity or greater and schools at less than 100 percent
capacity. Itwas noted that the Enrolment vs Capacity Summary is to be forward to Capital
Planning Advisory Committee members for 2008 January.
DirectorThorpe thanked Manager Bushell and his staff for preparation of the detailed report
noting that the data validates many schools where low capacity exists.
d.2006-07 GIFTS TO SCHOOLS SUMMARY
Exec. Supt. Dalton presented a report that summarized the activitiesrelated to Giftsto Schools
duringthe 2006-07 school year. The summary itemized,byschool, the giftsto schools thatwere
processed during the 2006-07 school year. She noted that an increase of 47.8 percent in
activity/dollar value was realized over the 2005-06 school year which provided greater
opportunities and enhancements to Thames Valley students.
Trustee Jaffe requested that the Thames Valley Education Foundation receive the 2006-07
summary of activity related to Gifts to Schools.
e.DEPARTMENTAL UPDATES
Program Services
Student Pathwavs for Success
Formative Evaluation of Student Success/Learning to 18 Strategy
The Canadian Councilon Learning (CCL)Iscurrentlyconducting a formative evaluation of
the provincial StudentSuccess/Learningto18 Strategy.Secondary School Principals have
been asked to informallstaff members and students ofthe opportunity to complete an online
survey before theend of2007 December.In addition tothe online surveys for all students
and staff inOntario secondary schools, the CCLis conducting Interviewsand focus groups
in 50 secondary schools.
2007 December 18...8
12.REPORTS FROM THE ADMINISTRATION -cont'd
e.DEPARTMENTAL UPDATES -cont'd
Program Services -Student Pathways -cont'd
In TVDSB,H. B.Seal Secondary School and Ingersoll District Collegiate have been chosen
to participate on December 3 and 4 respectively.AnInterview was also held with the Director
and Is yet to come with the Student Success Leader.According to the Ministry, "this
evaluation Is being conducted in order for the Ministryto gain a better understanding of the
current level of Implementation of the SS/L18 Strategy in school boards and secondary
schools and the findings will be used to Inform future developments ofthe SS/L18 Strategy."
Hard copies of the surveys can be obtained from Marie Chambers,Student Success Leader;
Student Success/Learning to 18 Action Plan.2007 -2008
The Student Success Leader,Marie Chambers,submitted the TVDSB Student
Success/Learning to 18 Action Plan,2007-2008,to the Ministryon October 31,2007.The
Action Plan consists of the following categories:Student Success Teachers and Teams;
Improving Literacy Achievement;Improving Mathematical • Literacy Achievement;
Implementing Effective Pathways;and Implementing Community, Culture and Caring. The
Plan outlines the proposed key activities within each of the categories above and their
associated estimated costs.Boards are also expected toInclude communications/marketing
activities In the Action Plan.This year there must be an emphasis on activities that target
Grades 7 and 8,differentiated Instruction,and assessment and evaluation.It should be
noted that activities are developed collaboratively among all Program Services departments.
Hard copies of the Action Plan can be obtained from Marie Chambers,Student Success
Leader;
-Student Success Communications Resources
Copies of new Ministry Student Success resources have been distributed to you with this
update:More Ways To Succeed in High School:A Booklet for Parents and Students-,What
Do You Need to Graduate?(Fact Sheet);Student Success Credit Tracker.These resources
have been sent to all schools and are designed to be used as part of the course selection and
transition process from Grade 8 to Grade 9;
Student Success Team Symposium
Members ofall secondary school Student Success Teams met together fora Ministry-funded
symposium on November 20,2007.The focus for the day was on the five "deliverables"that
must be completed by each Individual Student Success Team for the Ministryby the end of
2008 January.These "deliverables" Include the development and use of:
a system for monitoring and tracking students at risk;
- a co-ordinated timeline that ensures there Is a plan In place for students at risk;
a clarification of roles and responsibilities within the team (e.g..Student Success
Teacher,guidance counsellor,administrator,learning support teacher,attendance
counsellor,counselling and support worker,etc.);
a staff development and communication plan to encourage shared responsibility
within the staff;
a measurement of team effectiveness In Improving student achievement.
Applied Studies and The Arts
Assessment and Evaluation
The assessment and evaluation focus Is rolling out at the monthly COS meetings across
the valley. On November 26th,all elementary and secondary administrators received a
copy of "Classroom Assessment for Student Learning Doing it Right/Using ItWell" by
Rick Stiggins et al as well as a DVD entitled "New Missions,New Beliefs"which has
been book marked with key segments highlighted;
2007 December 18...9
12.REPORTS FROM THE ADMINISTRATION -cont'd
e.DEPARTMENTAL UPDATES -cont'd
Program Services - Arts -cont'd
All administrators have received a copy of the assessment and evaluation support
binders;
As we focus on assessment and evaluation this year,the COS meetings will become
more focussed on the specific "how to's"to move our schools and teachers from
grading/judging cultures to learning/coaching cultures.The input will come from
administrators as they determine the needs of their schools/teachers and of course there
could be a wide range of responses.This is where we will have to differentiate our
responses to meet their needs;
Music/Dance
Students,teachers,principals and communities in many schools are thrilled to hear of
the decision to'implement instrumental music programs to all of our Grade 7 and 8
students over the next three years.What a great way to celebrate our 10th anniyersary
as a Board!Now, all students will receive the same opportunities for a quality music
education;
Dance teachers and students attended a performance by Kaeja Dance at Talbot Theatre
on November 8th, This powerful presentation was followed by an Informative forum
regarding Dance in Ontario,which was attended by community members,educators,
arts advocates and performers.Access to quality arts performances for every child will
continue to be encouraged;
Visual Arts/Drama
In November,all elementary schools received a kit integrating Visual Art Appreciation,
Instructional Intelligence,and Media Literacy.The l<it Includes 12 poster-size fine art
reproductions and two documents Including,"Art Talk", a resource written by Thames
Valley teachers and designed to meet the critical thinking expectations of the Ontario
Curriculum;
Business Studies
The focus of the recent Business Department Heads meeting was on Differentiating
Instruction and using simulations in the classroom to increase student engagement.
Participants learned about how brain research findings support the need to differentiate
content,process and product in response to student interests and readiness.
Presentations were also made about business simulations offered by Junior
Achievement,the Sprott School of Business (Carleton)and Investors of Tomorrow;
Co-operative Education
The Thames Valley District School Board has recently invested in a web-based
management system to support Experiential Learning programs within the Board.With
the expansion of Co-operative Education and other experiential learning initiatives,it was
deemed necessary to manage the growth of school-specific and employer Information;
The MTEL (Management Tool for Experiential Learning)system assists teachers with the
requiredforms and reports relevantto experientiallearning and has direct links to the
Ontario Curriculum expectations.National Occupation Classification job descriptions,and
Apprenticeship Training Standards.Its use will ensure a consistent approach to
experiential learning programs Is utilized by teachers within the Board;
2007 December 18...10
12.REPORTS FROM THE ADMINISTRATION -cont'd
e.DEPARTMENTAL UPDATES -cont'd
Program Services -cont'd
On December 4,Cooperative Education and Experiential Learning teachers from every
secondary school paiiicipated in a full day session with a focus on legal/ethical issues
and liability/rlsk-management procedures relevant to experiential learning programs;
Guidance
IITVDSB secondary Heads of Guidance,three elementary teachers and board leaders
for Guidance,Student Success and Character Development attended a Ministry of
Education Guidance Symposium on November 26,2007 at the London Convention
Centre.The topics addressed included;Character Development,Learning to 18 and
Student Success;
Secondary Guidance Heads attended ourThames Valley Student Success School Team
Symposium on November 20,2007.There is a staff member from Guidance on each
school team.The teams focussed their work on how to continue to implement Student
Success programs in their schools and ensuring that they are working toward the
Ministry deliverables;
Work has begun on the next round of Pathways to Destinations training for Grade 7-8
teachers.The sessions are funded by the TVDSB Student Pathways for Success
Portfolio.The training is scheduled for the new year and continues to connect our Grade
7-8 Choices Into Action programs to Student Success and the Ontario curriculum
expectations.Our three areas of focus are self-assessment,career exploration and
pathway planning. The TVDSB Grade 7-8 Career Education survey will be
readministered in 2008 to monitor growth in this area;
Heatlth and Physical Education
An HIV/AIDS Youth Expo geared to Grade 10,11 & 12 students was held on
Wednesday,November 28thfrom9:30a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Special Events Building,
Western Fair.Presentations included Stigma &Living with HIV,Global Impact of
HIV/AIDS,Biology &Research of HIV and interactive workshops withDoctors Without
Borders. The Expowas appropriate forsenior classes inHealthand Physical Education,
Canadian and World Studies,Guidance and Career Education,Native Studies,Science,
Social Studies and Humanities and Technological Education;
Thank you for the overwhelmingly positive response to the QDPA Fun Fit Demonstration
invitation. It is clear that our system is seeking support in the maintenance and
advancement ofQDPA. Fun Fit Demonstrations will be taking place from December to
March.2007-2008.;
Technological Education
Technological Educationisteamingup with literacy,numeracyand science toruna pilot
interdisciplinary Grade 8 project. This will be exciting and everyone looks forward to this
event;
Wehave partnered with the LDCSB informing aSpecialist High Skills Major,Manufacturing
(SHSM)joint steering committee for the purpose of promoting the SHSM to the
manufacturing sector;
2007 December 18...11
12.REPORTS FROM THE ADMINISTRATION -cont'd
e.DEPARTMENTAL UPDATES-cont'd
Program Services - Applied Studies and The Arts -cont'd
Youth Employment Skills fYES)
This program Is available to secondary school students in partnership with Fanshawe
College,the Local Apprenticeship Committee and other partners to pursue apprenticeships
in the General Machinist Trade.The Youth Employment Skills (YES)program has been
offered to all secondary schools students in Thames Valley and London Catholic boards
for ten years.
Information Technology Services
-Information Technology Support for Classroom Teachers
A wide variety of workshops have been offered this year to support classroom teachers in
their use of technology with their students.These sessions were held during Summer
Institutes,on the October PD day,as well as after school hours and on Saturdays.Some
of the topics of these many workshops include:
Graphic Organizers;
Smartboards (Introduction,Intermediate and Advanced);
First Class Web Site Creation;
Microsoft PowerPoint Scrapbooking;
Copy Free Materials;
Online Collaboration;
Sequential Art;
Instructional Intelligence and Technology:Concept Mapping and the Smartboard;
Instructional Intelligence and Technology:Mind Mapping and Brainstofming;
Digital Storytelling Using Photostory and Movie Maker;
Higher Order Thinking with the Smartboard;
How to Create a Yearbook using Microsoft Publisher;
Virtual Mathematical Gymnastics;
Digital Photography and Media Literacy;
Getting Started with Turnitln.com;
Google and the internet In the Classroom;
Successmaker.
Voice Telecommunications Renewal Proiect
The ITS Infrastructure and Operations staff continue to work throughout the valley
converting schools to the new telephone system.To date all administrative centres and 32
schools have been converted to the new telephone system.The new telephone system will
provide a common voice mail system for allstaff,5-dlgit dialling thought the board,as well
as savings related to telephone set additions,moves and changes and to the reduction in
the number of telephone lines required. The project is expected to be completed first quarter
of 2009;
Active Directory Deployment Proiect
The Active Directory deployment project is progressing well. Last year ITS was able to
convert a very aggressive schedule of 90 schools to the new operating system standard.
Thisyear we are on schedule to complete all elementary schools bythe end of December.
This will mean for the first time since amalgamation there will be a standard operating
system in all elementary schools across the Thames Valley DistrictSchool Board. ITSis
scheduled to complete the deployment of Active DirectoryIn 10 Secondary schools before
the conclusion of the school year. As a result of this standardization and the use of some
ofthe tools that are now part ofthe standard operating system configuration,ITS has been
able to deploy in excess of 11,000 applications to student and administrative desktops
remotely, withoutrequiring a technician to visitthe workstations;
2007 December 18...12
12.REPORTS FROM THE ADMINISTRATION -cont'd
e.DEPARTMENTAL UPDATES -cont'd
Program Services -cont'd
Information Technology Services -Classroom Teachers -cont'd
HR /Payroll System Upgrade -IPPS.net
The Human Resources,Payroll and ITS departments have been participating In the pilotof
the new ECNO Personnel/Payroll system called IPPS.net.Being part of this pilot has
provided Thames Valley w^lth an opportunity to influence the functionality of the new system
and also an opportunity to integrate our local development with the new system.
Considerable effort has been expended by all three departments in the parallel testing of the
IPPS.net system.The IPPS.net system is scheduled to be moved to production early in
2008 January:
Video Initiatives throughout the Board
Video announcements at WCI - ITS has provided equipment and technology to Woodstock
Collegiate Institute,which the school Is using to produce video morning announcements that
are broadcast throughout the school two mornings per week.The announcements are
produced by the grade 12 Communications Technology students as part of their Grade 12
curriculum.Recently the same technology was used to stream a live video feed of the WCI
girls'basketball team participating inOFSAA inPort Hope at Trinity Secondary School back
to the video server at WCI where students,parents and staff were able to view the game;
Video Researchers on Call (VROC)-Through the use ofVideo Conferencing equipment,
four schools in the Thames Vaiiey now have the abilityto have scientists from Universities
across Canada join our students in their classes to discuss new and emerging scientific
ventures,thus delivering content years ahead ofthe textbooks rightto the classroom inand
interactive format.The schools withVideo Conferencing equipment are:Huron Park,Clarke
Road,Lucas and Banting;
Distance Education through Video Conferencing.- Again this year students at West Elgin
Secondary School and Glencoe District High School are able to share courses through
videoconferencing.This initiative has a teacher and students InWest Lome connected daily
through video conferencing to students in Glencoe.This initiative allows courses that would
not typically be available because of class size to be offered across the two schools.In the
first semester,IDC4U1 Agriculture is being offered and in the second semester,CHY4U1
The West and the World,Is planned.
Business Services
Facility Services and projects and Maintenance updates included; Capital Projects at Mitchell
Hepburn P.S.,Strathroy District Collegiate Institute, Hickson Central P.S., Algonquin P.S.
Medway High School and an additional portable installed at Byron Northview P.S.;
Financial Services update included:Deloitte &Touche have substantially completed their audit
of the 2006-07 results.FS is preparing the audited financial statements for presentation to the
Audit Committee on 2007 December 18.The 2007-08 Revised Estimates were filed with the
Ministry of Education on November 30*^in accordance withtheir deadline. Financial Services
has completed the required transfers from reserves resulting from the November 20"^Audit
Committee approvals which were subsequently approved by the Board on 2007 November 27;
Support Services update included;Transportation Services met with bus drivers and helpers to
discuss the transportation needs of special education students.The Distribution Centre initiatives
included collaboration with Program Services in compiling 90 Smarter Science Kits.
2007 December 18...13
12.REPORTS FROM THE ADMINISTRATION -cont'd
e.DEPARTMENTAL UPDATES -cont'd
Director's Services
-Acting Director of Education John Thorpe attended the following meetings/events:ETFO
Occasional Teachers'Open House; CEO Administrators'I\^eeting;School on the Move-Arthur
Ford P.S.Celebration;Oxford #4 ARC Meeting; Murphy Bus Lines Seasonal Celebration;
Principals' Meeting and Retirement Celebration;
Exec. Supt.Greene and Dalton,Director Designate Tucker, Manager Bushell and Acting
DirectorThorpe met withNancy Naylor,Assistant DeputyMinisterof Education, Business and
Finance Division,and a member of her staff to update her on the Board's rollingCapital Plan and
ARC processes and future financial requirements to support accommodation projects.It was
a mutually helpful and informative meeting;
Director Thorpe met with a representative of Ruth Baumann,Student Success Field Director,
to discuss implementation of the Student Success Learning to 18 evaluation process that is
taking place in all system secondary schools;
- At the request of English Department staff at Central Secondary School,the Director made a
one-hour presentation on the Importance of oral and written language use to 235 Grade 12 and
gifted program students;
Staff Development update included:NTIP -The Effective new Teacher part 111 - Instructional
Strategies that Engage the Brain by Dr. Marcia Tate;NTIP Mentor Awareness,Leadership
Strategic Planning;2008 Leadership Conference and Professional Reading Program;
PublicAffairsand Community Relations update included:ArthurFord P.S.LondonSchool, 2007
United Way campaign,filming the Director's annual holiday greeting and Thames Valley
Education Foundation recent donations,second donation of securities and recognitions of
supporters.
Human Resource Services
Retiree Benefit Plans are up for renewal 2008 January.We are advising all retirees ofthe new
rates and are assisting them with their choices;
Disability Management is currently working with 58 staff members in their return to work
programs as a result of non-occupational and occupational illnesses and injuries;
There are 1,506 active Elementary Occasional teachers (OTE) plus 49 on leave;395 OTE are
Retirees (25%)and 217 OTE are part-time contract teachers.There are 242 Long-Term
Occasional assignments with 4 LTO being filled by Retirees.About 200 teachers are being
added to occasional teacher complement withfiles being processed and necessary orientation
on December 06;
Additional 100 teachers are being added to secondary occasional teacher complement withfiles
and orientation by December 06. Currently there are 992 occasional teachers on the listwith
26%retirees.Currently, LTO assignments are being filled by 224 teachers that include 13
Retirees;
- CUPE 4222C internal postings will result in 12 positions being advertised externallyforvacant
positions.
2007 December 18...14
12.REPORTS FROM THE ADMINISTRATION -cont'd )
e.DEPARTMENTAL UPDATES-cont'd
Operations Services
Exec.Supt.Dalton reviewed a list of Supervisory Officer responsibilities as realigned for 2008
February 01 and advised that the Information becomes public following the Regular Board
meeting on 2007 December 19.;
Elementary Staffing is currently working with Human Resources and ETFO in order to establish
the procedures to be implemented for the staffing of the new Mitchell Hepburn Public School,
as well as for our existing schools affected by the reorganization to accommodate JK/SK to
grade 8. Our plan is to have these procedures completed by 2007 December 21 and then,
commencing 2008 January a series of information sessions will be provided forallstaff in those
affected schools to clearly outline the steps in the staffing process.
Safe Schools Initiatives included:
Aboriginal Transition Conference
On December 4,Safe Schools and the Fourth R-CAMH Centre for Prevention Science
partnered provided an AboriginalTransition Conference to our TVDSBAboriginalYouth;
Seventy-five Gr.8 Aboriginal students attended to learn about the transition to secondary
school; specifically,learned about courses and programs offered forAboriginalYouthinour
Secondary Schools;
Students met Aboriginal Counsellors from Seal,Saunders and Thames,and heard from
students currently attending those schools who take part in programs such as the Peer ^•-
Mentoring Program andthe new stackedcourse for Aboriginal students.,J
Secondarv Violence Prevention Committee
-Committee met on December 12 to review feedback from semester one initiatives and to
plan for semester two;
Dramatroupes fromfour secondary schools are providing presentations duringthe 2007-08
school year;
Semester two Initiatives include plays,guest speakers and conferences;
- Very positive feedback was received regarding all drama presentations from Gr.7-12,
Bill 212
As a follow-up to the recent Ministry trainingon the changes as a result of Bill 212,the Safe
Schools Department attended an ImplementationWorkshop in Mississauga on December
10 where information regarding revisions needed in policies and procedures was presented
by a legal firm.
Kids on the Block
Life-sized puppets are used in this presentation to create awareness of negative
consequences of bullying for students in grades 2-4;
Studentsdiscussed problem-solving strategiesand explored waystopromotesafety in their
school.
Yvette Locke
Ventriloquist/puppeteer has presented in JK-Grade 5 classrooms;
During the 2007-08 school year,she is touring her shows,1Like Me; Believe inYourself;
and Virtual Bullying;
Yvette has presented in 15 elementary schools since September.
2007 December 18...15
12.REPORTS FROM THE ADMINISTRATION -cont'd
e.DEPARTMENTAL UPDATES -cont'd
Operations Services -cont'd
Bruce Lanaford
Uses music,role piays and motivation to engage students in topics related to ctiaracter
education,bullying prevention and cyberbullying prevention;
Bruce has three shows he is touring in our elementary schools:Stand up for Respect;
Stand up Against Bullying;and a new show titled, Cyberbullying - Got 2 Go. Bruce also
presents to parents about bullying in his presentation,Keep Your Kids Safe.
Research-and Assessment undertook/completed the following projects during late 2007
November and early December:
Student feedback from SAVE Conference analysed and report prepared;
OLSAT:Analysis of data from November data set;
Prepared Level Test assessment data for data warehouse;
Grade9 DRP'Reading and Level Reading Assessments;
Updated assessment wait time for OPA project;
Supported development of school improvement plans;
Developed plans for monitoring of new Lighthouse projects;
Updated Research and Assessment website;
Evaluated external research requests;
Worked with Privacy and Information Management Task Force;
Presentation to Learning Supervisors on external research process;
Attended EQAO Conference;
Reviewed funding submissions for Projects to Support Students At Risk;prepared and
distributed budget templates;
Worked on Native Self-Identification project;
Prepared system suspension data;
Facilitated surveys from external agencies;
Prepared and presented system Indicator data;
Attended AERO Conference on knowledge mobilization:
Supported SBLI projects;consultation on outcome measures and data processing;
Reviewed Coaches and Understanding MathSurveys results withMathematics Learning
Supervisor and Understanding Math company representatives;
Practice OSSLT:consulted with schools re:changes to the data collection form;
Participated In Provincial Research Capacity project;
Explored use of Canadian Achievement Test -Version 4;
Analysis completed for Primary DRA;reports prepared/distributed to Elementary Principal
and Superintendents;
Post analysis ARC templates and maps completed for first group of ARCs;
On-line profiles updated with Primary DRA and Phonological Awareness data;
On-line profiles updated with recent DRA target changes;
Profile design enhancements completed and now in production;
Developed and implemented strategies to meet Ministry requirements in reporting
elementary teaching staff allocations;
Reviewed issues related to the availability of lEP data and proposed a process to address
the gaps;
Established specifications to identify the data needs of Research.&Assessment Services;
-OnSIS.
2007 December 18...16
13.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES
a.SEAC CHAIR'S REPORT OF 2007 DECEMBER 04
Trustee J.Bennett,Special Education Advisory Committee Chair,presented a summary of the
2007 December 04 SEAC meeting.John Verbakei,Learning Supervisor,Program Services,
provided a power-point presentation on Assessment forLearning,Creating a Culture of Change.
Updates were provided on the following committees:
-Special Education Plan;
-Mentor Health and Wellness;
-Inclusion.
The mandate of the STEPS to Success Behaviour Resource program was reviewed.There will
be changes in Oxford County to align with Middlesex and London.It is expected that a full
review of the STEPS Program will take place in the hew year.
b.REPORT OF THE POLICY WORKING COMMITTEE 2007 November 27
3:05 p.m.-4:45 p.m.
MEMBERS ADMINISTRATION AND OTHERS
J.Bennett (Chair)T.Roberts J.Thorpe S.Christie
8.Doub R.Tisdale (3:30)B. Strong S.Hughes
P.Jaffe 'M.Sereda B.Greene
B.Wallace J.Verbakei
Trustee Visitor: S.Peters,F.Exiey,T.Grant (3:50)Visitors:A. Morell, B.Hopkins
1. APPROVAL OF AGENDA -The agenda was approved by motion.
2.CONFLICTS OF INTEREST-none declared
3.COMMITTEE REPORT OF OCTOBER 23, 2007,AND TRACKING SHEET- provided for
information
4.INTRODUCTION OF DRAFT POLICY/PROCEDURE -none
5.CONSIDERATION OF POLICY/PROCEDURE FOLLOWING PUBLIC INPUT
a. Policy: Health and Safety
B.Strong and B.Wallace joined the meeting.Manager Strong advised that the Ministry of
Labour has requested that an updated report be posted on the Board's website annually and
reviewed annually.The date of the review will be reflected in the policy amendment date.
The following motion was moved and carried:
That amendments to the policy on Health and Safety be forwarded to the 2007
December 18 Board meeting for approval.
2007 December 18...17
13.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd
b.REPORT OF THE POLICY WORKING COMMITTEE -con fd
5.CONSIDERATION OF POLICY/PROCEDURE FOLLOWING PUBLIC INPUT -cont'd
b.Procedure:Lockout -Energy Isolation
Itwas noted that the Lockout-Energy Isolation procedure was posted tothe Board's website
for publicinput;however, noinputwas received. The Ministry ofLabourhas requested that
the draft procedure provide more specific machine lockout provisions, site specific training
and the retention of additional documentation at the worksite.The following motion was
moved and carried:
That the amended procedure on Lockout-Energy Isolation be forwarded to the
December 18,2007,Board meeting for Information.
c.Procedure:Principal Input on System Support Staff '
Input has been received fromthe OSSTF/PSSP bargaining uniton the procedure regarding
Principal Input on System Support Staff.Manager Strong described the unit's proposed
changes related to making the procedure more specific to PSSP members.It was noted
that as the document applies to all Itinerant staff,not all recommended changes have been
adopted.
All checklists from principals will be shared with staff and a copy of the principal's input will
be provided to the staff member during the performance appraisal process.
Trustee Roberts requested that the wording in Section 3.3 be amended to read that the
principal "musf'have the opportunity to discuss the input being considered for submission.
It was noted that as an employee may work inmore than one school Itis mandatory forone
principalto provide input withthe option for others to also provide Input. It was requested
and agreed that the employee's signature will be added to the written appraisal form.
After a lengthy discussion,the following motion was moved and carried:
That the amended procedure on Principal Input on System Support Staff be forwarded
to the 2007 December 18 Board meeting for information.
d.Independent Procedure -Support Staff Hiring
The independent procedure on Support Staff Hiring was posted to the Board's website for
public input. Input was received from CUPE 4222 requesting that the amendments be put
. in abeyance pending resolution of related CUPE grievances.Itwas agreed to move forward
with the amendments removing the requirement for tuberculosis testing.
The following motion was moved and carried:
That the amended independent procedure on Support Staff Hiring be forwarded to the
2007 December 18 Board meeting for information.
6.DRAFT POLICY/PROCEDURE REQUIRING FURTHER CONSIDERATION -None
7.SUGGESTED POLICY/PROCEDURE REVISIONS
a.Procedure -Naming of Schools
DirectorJ. Thorpedescribed amendments tothe Namingof Schools procedure clarifying changes
tomembershipona Naming ofSchoolsCommitteeandthe process toreceivesuggested names.
The following motion was moved and carried:
That amendments to the Naming of Schools procedure be posted to the Board's website for
60 days for public input.
2007 December 18...18
13.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd
b.REPORT OF THE POLICY WORKING COMMITTEE -cont'd
7.SUGGESTED POLICY/PROCEDURE REVISIONS -cont'd
J
b.Independent Procedure -Food In Our Schools Guideline
Superintendent S.Hughes and Learning Supervisor J.Verbakel joined the meeting to discuss
amendments to the Food In Our Schools Guideline independent procedure.Mr. Verbakel
described the discussions noting a survey was completed by a class of Grade 8 students
regarding the document.The committee examining the procedure was a sub-committee of the
Healthy Schools Committee. Itwas suggested and agreed that a connection to the Healthy
Schools policy will be included Inthe independent procedure. The HealthySchools policy will
also be amended to reflect the new procedure in its "Resources"section.
It was suggested that recommendations from the sub-committee be included in the document.
Thedocumentwas referredbacktothe sub-committeeforconsiderationand returntothe Policy
Working Committee at its 2008 January 22 meeting.
8.OTHER BUSINESS
a.Policy -Transportation
Executive Superintendent B.Greene and Manager B.Woodley joined the meeting to discuss
trustee concerns overtransportation notbeingprovidedto students from care giver homes orday
care facilities.Exec.Supt. Greene described the currentTransportation policy.Mr.Woodley
described the criteria for providing transportation from a care giverhome ordaycare facility.The
costs and concerns to open up eligibility to an additional 33,970 non-eligible students were
discussed.
He advised the committee that the new Transportation Consortia will provide transportation
services toallfourschoolboards with the intenttoharmonize eligibility and operating procedure'^
effective2008September. Itwas notedthatthe present policy providesequityacross thesyster,.-
and stressed that safety is considered in identifying bus route stops based on the primary
address.
ManagerWoodleyresponded to Committeemember questions. The Information presented by
him is attached to the report.
9.DATES OF FUTURE MEETINGS
The following Committee meetings have been scheduled:
2007 December 18,3:00,Governor Sjmcoe Room
2008 January 22,3:00 p.m.,Oxford Room
2008 February 26,3:00 p.m.,Oxford Room
2008 March 25,3:00 p.m., Oxford Room
2008 April 22,3:00 p.m.,Oxford Room '
2008 May 27,3:00 p.m.,Oxford Room
2008 June 24,3:00 p.m.,Oxford Room
10.ADJOURNMENT- The meeting adjourned at p.m. by motion.
RECOMMENDATION:
That amendments to the Health and Safety policybe approved.
J.BENNETT,
Chairperson
f
Consideration ofthe report was deferred to the Regular Board meeting of 2008 January 08.
2007 December 18...19
13.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd
^c.REPORT OF THE CHAIRS'COMMITTEE 2007 December 05
MEMBERS ADMINISTRATION AND OTHERS
J.Bennett P. Sattler (Chair)J.Thorpe S.Christie
G.Hart J.Stewart
1.APPROVAL OF AGENDA
The agenda was approved.
2.CONFLICTS OF INTEREST -none declared.
3.REVIEW OF 2007 DECEMBER 11 BOARD MEETING
The agenda forthe December 11 Inaugural Meeting was discussed and updated.
4.Correspondence
Correspondence from theClerkof Middlesex CentreregardingtheSports&Recreation Infrastructure
Renewal was added to the December 18 Board agenda under "Communications".
The following correspondence will be included Inthe Trustee information package:
Letter from Chair of Grand Erie D.S.B.to Minister of Education re calculation of Trustee
honoraria;
Letter from Chair of Grand Erie D.S.B.to Minister of Education re cost of implementing Reg.
243/07 and 2007,SB22 related to increased cost of flushing process.
5.2008 BOARD SEATING
/Trustee Board Room seating for 2008 was discussed and confirmed according to Trustee requests.
6.2008 BOARD COMMITTEES
The trustee committee membership for2008 was discussed.Itwas recommended that meeting dates
be co-ordinated and scheduled on a regular basis.The following motion was moved and carried;
That the list of Committees of the Board and community representation for 2008 be forwarded
in the 2007 December 11,Inaugural meeting for approval.
7.ADDITIONAL CAPITAL PLANNING ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEMBERSHIP AND 2007
DECEMBER 06 MEETING PLANS
Members to fill open positions on the Board's Capital Planning Advisory Committee were considered.
Trustee Hart will tryto fill the community representative positionfor OxfordCountyand will report at
the next meeting. A recommendation to approve members for the outstanding positions will be
forwarded to the December 18 Board meeting.
Plans for the December 06 Capital Planning Advisory Committee meeting were discussed and
confirmed.
8.2008 JANUARY MEETING RE BUDGET DEVELOPMENT
Chair Sattler advised that a Budget Advisory Committee meeting will be scheduled In January to
discuss developmentofthe 2008-09 Budget. Plans will be finalized at the next meeting.
9.OTHER BUSINESS
a.Consortium Transportation Manager Position
Executive Superintendent B.Greene joinedthe meetingand advised that the General Manager
position for the Transportation Consortium will be advertised on December 8. He described the
^structureofthe Management Committee.
2007 December 18...20
13.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd
c.REPORT OF THE CHAIRS'COMMITTEE -cont'd
9.OTHER BUSINESS -cont'd
b.Trans Fat Update
Executive Supt.Greene advised that the Ministry of Education has distributed an announcement
related to school cafeterias movingto offertrans fat free products to meet Ministry of Health
directions in 2008. He noted that the Board will be issuing an RFP for cafeteria services in
accordance withthe HealthySchools policy.Information regarding the Ministry's initiative will be
forwarded to trustees.
10.DATE AND TIME OF FUTURE MEETINGS
The following Committee meetings were scheduled for 9:00 a.m.in the Governor Simcoe Room:
2007 December 12,19
2008 January 16
2008 February 06
-2008 March 05,19
-2008 April 2,16
-2008 May 07,21
-2008 June 04,18
11.ADJOURNMENT
The meeting adjourned at 11:30 a.m..
RECOMMENDATIONS:none
P.SATTLER,
Chairperson
r
d.REPORT OF THE CHAIRS'COMMITTEE 2007December1 '
9:15 a.m.-11:40 a.m.
MEMBERS ADMINISTRATION AND OTHERS
J.Bennett P.Sattler (Chair)J.Thorpe S.Christie
G.Hart J.Stewart B.Tucker
1.APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA
The agenda was approved by motion.
2.CONFLICTS OF INTEREST -none declared
3.AGENDA REVIEW
The agendas forthe 2007 December 18 In-camera and public Board meetings were reviewed and
approved.
4.CORRESPONDENCE-none
5.BUDGET ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETING OF 2008 JANUARY
Chair Sattler requested that a Budget Advisory Committee meeting be scheduled in January to
discuss potential budgetissues and optionsfor review inthe budget development process with SOs
and trustees.There will be an in-camera portionofthe meeting to address budget issues related to
negotiations,legal orpersonalmatters. ChairSattlerwill speak with membersofthe Budget Advisory
Committee regarding a possible January 29 meeting date and will advise trustees accordingly.^
•.J
2007 December 18...21
13.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd
d.REPORT OF THE CHAIRS'COMMITTEE-cont'd
6.GOVERNANCE WORKSHOP 2008 APRIL 17-18
Chair Sattler sought directionona proposed locationforthe upcomingGovernance workshop inApril.
It was agreed thatshe will pursue arrangements locally,and follow up with trustees regarding their
preferences.
7.COMMUNICATIONS
Communications Manager C.Dennett joined the meeting to discuss general issues related to the
process of communication to trustees.Mr.Dennettdescribedthecurrentprocess of advising trustees
of public relationsissues, and the considerations used toestablish the scope of communications for
each instance.It was reinforced that,as much as possible,the Board Chair and the Director of
Education or designate should,speak on behalf of the Board. At the same time, the importance of
apprisingalltrustees (andthe local representatives in particular)ofemergingissues was recognized.
Itwas agreed that issues relatedtothe technologyused to notify trustees ofurgent news shouldbe
addressed through the Ad Hoc Committee on Trustee Technology Needs.
Itwas suggested and agreed that media training will be providedto trustees and supervisory officers
early in the new year.
8.OTHER BUSINESS
Urban Aboriainal Proiect
Director Thorpe described a $3M Ministry of Education Initiative to support three pilot projects
between school boards and urban aboriginal communities,one in each of the north,central and south
regions ofthe province.Requests for submission fromschool boards to participate are required by
December 20. It was agreed that Director Designate Tucker,Executive Superintendent Elliott and
Chair Sattler will meet with N'amerind representatives regarding the proposed submission.Further
information will be sought from the Ministry of Education.
9.DATE AND TIME OF FUTURE MEETINGS
The following meetings were scheduled for 9:00 a.m.:
2007 December 19;
2008 January 16;
February 6, 20;
March 5,19;
April 2,16;
- . May 7,21;
June 4,18.
10.ADJOURNMENT
The meeting adjourned at 11:40 a.m.by motion.
RECOMMENDATIONS;none
P.SATTLER,
Chairperson
2007 December 18...22
13.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd
e.REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE,IN CAMERA 2007 December 1 J
MEMBERS PRESENT ADMINISTRATION AND OTHERS
J.Stewart(Chalr)
J.Bennett (5:08)
F.Exiey
T.Grant
G. Hart (5:10)
P.Jaffe
S.Peters
S.Polhill
T.Roberts
J.Rowe
P.Sattler
R.Tisdaie
J.Thorpe
B.Greene
K.Dalton
0.Murphy
M.Sereda
S.Hughes
M.Moynihan
V.Nielsen
W.Tucker'
P.Tufts
B.Wagner
K.Wilkinson
K.Bushell
S.Christie
C.Dennett
.Regrets:K.Patterson
Absent:S.Doub,M.Hendrick
The Committee met in camera from 5:05 p.m.to 6:00 p.m.
1.APPROVAL OF AGENDA
The agenda was approved by motion.
2.CONFLICTS OF INTEREST -No conflicts of interest were declared.
3.Confidential personal and property matters were discussed.
4.RISE AND REPORT
A motion to rise and report was moved at 6:00 p.m.and carried.'f
RECOMMENDATIONS:
1.That the motions approved at the in-camera session of December 18,2007,related to appointments
to permanent teaching status and resignation to retirement be approved.
2.That the tender received on December 12,2007,from Graceview Enterprises Inc. For $18,204,145
excluding GST for the construction of the additions and renovations to Medway High School be
accepted and that the Board enter into a contract with Graceview Enterprises Inc. to construct the
project.
3.That the Board approves the transfer of $1,087,111 from the Pupil Accommodation Reserve Fund
to fund a portion of the Medway High School addition and renovation project.
4
4.That the Board approves the transfer of $750,000 from the TVDSB Other Capital Reserve Fund to
fund a portion of the Medway High School addition and renovation project.
J.STEWART,
Chairperson
The recommendations were approved on motion of J.Stewart,seconded by T.Roberts.
2007 December 18...23
14.COMMUNICATIONS
r""
^a.CHAIR'S SUMMARY UPDATE
Chair Sattler reported on meetings/events that she attended during 2007 December noting that she
attended the OPSBA Board of Directors'meeting,Board Inaugural and chaired the Capital Planning
Advisory Committee meeting on 2007 December 06.She toured A. B.Lucas Secondary School and
served lunch to students and staff at Lome Avenue Public School.
b.ONTARIO PUBLIC SCHOOL BOARDS'ASSOCIATION
Trustee Hart advised that only Trustee Jaffe and Chair Sattler have registered for the 2008 OPSBA Public
Education Symposium to be held on 2008 January 24-26.He encouraged the Trustees to consider
participating in the Symposium noting it as a beneficial forum for connecting with other school board
trustees across the province.
c.CHIEF ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER,MIDDLESEX CENTRE
A letter was received from the Chief Administrative Officer of Middlesex Centre regarding the Council's
resolution passed 2007 November 07 seeking support from the Board,for sport and recreation
infrastructure renewal in communities across Ontario has been received.
15.NOTICE OF MOTION -none
16.MOTION-NOTICE OF WHICH HAS BEEN GIVEN-none
17.ADDITIONAL ITEMS -none
18.QUESTIONS/COMMENTS BY MEMBERS -none
19.ADJOURNMENT
The meeting adjourned at 9:20 p.m. on motion of R.Tisdale,seconded by T.Grant.
CONFIRMED:
Chairperson
2007 December 18...24
SUMMARY OF APPROVED RECOMMENDATIONS OF 2007 DECEMBER 18
That Trustees direct Administration to include In the capital planning process and in the budget development
process,the introduction of a Junior Kindergarten entry pointfor French Immersion.
That ifa Junior Kindergarten entry point is introduced for French Immersion,it be planned on a Board-wide
basis.
That the motions approved at the in-camera session of December 18,2007,related to appointments to
permanent teaching status and resignation to retirement be approved.
That the tender received on December 12,2007,from Gracevlew Enterprises Inc. For $18,204,145 excluding
GST for the construction of the additions and renovations to Medway High School be accepted and that the
Board enter into a contract with Gracevlew Enterprises Inc. to construct the project.
That the Board approves the transfer of $1,087,111 from the Pupil Accommodation Reserve Fund to fund a
portion of the Medway High School addition and renovation project.
That the Board approves the transfer of $750,000 from the TVDSB Other Capital Reserve Fund to fund a
portion of the Medway High School addition and renovation project.
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