3/27/2007 - Regular Board MeetingTHAMES VALLEY DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD
REGULAR BOARD MEETING,PUBLIC SESSION
2007 MARCH 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 -Byron Northvlew P.S.,London V
4.APPROVAL OF AGENDA M
5.OFFICIAL RECORD
6.RECOGNITIONS
a.Canadian Parents for French (Ontario)Presentation to Board V
7.CONFLICTS OF INTEREST V
8.CHAIR'S ANNOUNCEMENTS V
9.DIRECTOR'S ANNOUNCEMENTS V
10.MINUTES OF THE 2007 March 20 BOARD MEETING M
a.Confirmation of Minutes
b.Business Arising from the Minutes
11.STUDENT TRUSTEES'UPDATE
12.REPORTS FROM THE ADMINISTRATION
a.Budget Issue -Special Education Funding M
b.Monthly Financial Report M
c.Short-Term Financing for Balance of Stage 1 and 2 of Good Places to Learn M
d.2007-08 Projected Enrolment and Preliminary Teacher Staffing M
e.Departmental Updates M
13.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES
a.Special Education Advisory Committee,2007 February 06 M
b.SEAC Chair's Report,2007 March 19 -none
c.Native Advisory Committee,2007 March 20 M
d.Budget Advisory Committee,2007 March 21 M
e.Chairs'Committee,2007 March 21 M
f.Committee of the Whole,in Camera,2007 March 27 V
14.COMMUNICATIONS
a.Chair's Summary Update V
b.Ontario Public School Boards'Association -Update V
c.Grand Erie District School Board M
15.NOTICE OF MOTION -none
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 MARCH 27
The Board met In regular session on 2007 March 27 in the Board Room at the Education Centre,meeting in
public session from 7:06 p.m.to 10:20 p.m.The following were in attendance:
TRUSTEES
S.Doub M.Hendrick,S.Polhlll
F.Exley P.Jaffe P.Sattler (Chair)
T.Grant J.Koscik J.Stewart
G.Hart K.North R.Tisdale
S.Peters
ADMINISTRATION AND OTHERS
B.Bryce K.Dalton K.Bushell
L.Elliott J.Empringham S.Christie
B.Greene S.Hughes K.Meeson
M.Sereda L.Hutchlnson G.Owens
J.Thorpe B.Tucker J.Roth
D.Blair B.Wagner W.Scott
K.Wilkinson
Regrets:J.Bennett,T.Roberts
1.CALL TO ORDER
Board Chairperson P.Sattler called the meeting to order at 7:04 p.m.
2./3.O CANADA AND MUSICAL PRESENTATION
The appreciation of the Board was extended to the Byron Northvlew Public School (London)Concert
and Jazz Bands and Conductor Gregg Webb for leading in the singing ofO'Canada and performing
three musical selections.
4.APPROVAL OF AGENDA
The agenda was approved on motion of J.Stewart,seconded by P.Jaffe.
5.OFFICIAL RECORD -none
6.RECOGNITIONS
a. CANADIAN PARENTS FOR FRENCH (ONTARIO)PRESENTATION TO BOARD
Monica Ferenzy,President,Canadian Parents for French (Ontario),acknowledged the Thames
Valley District School Board for offering French Immersion programs since 1971,commencing
with the first pilot project at its predecessor Elgin County Board of Education at Welllington Street
P.S.Ms.Ferenzy presented a commemorative plaque to Chairperson Sattler in recognition of
more than 35 years of French Immersion programming and applauded the Board's continued
leadership in this area.
7.CONFLICTS OF INTEREST -No conflicts of interest were declared.
8.CHAIR'S ANNOUNCEMENTS
Chair Sattler reported that an advertisement has been placed In the London Free Press regarding the
public Input session to be held at Lord Elgin Public School on 2007 April 04 noting that ail Trustees
are welcome to attend this input session.
The next Trustee PD session is to be held on 2007 April 13 at the Community Education Centre -
South,St.Thomas,from 9:00 a.m.to 1:00 p.m.
2007 March 27...2
8.CHAIR'S ANNOUNCEMENTS -cont'd
Chair Sattler requested that Trustees submit agenda topics for the upcoming MPP meeting scheduled
for 2007 April20 at 9:00 a.m.Trustees were also asked to suggest topics for secondary students to
consider during the roundtable discussions at the Student Trustee Elections on 2007 April 27.
9.DIRECTOR'S ANNOUNCEMENTS
Director Bryce announced that Karen Dalton,Superintendent of Education,has been promoted to the
position of Executive Superintendent of Operations Services effective 2007 August 01.Ms. Dalton
will be replacing retiring Executive Superintendent John Thorpe.Ms.Dalton was congratulated on her
appointment.
Director Bryce referred to a feature story that appeared In the London Free Press on 2007 March 24
related to a special graduation ceremony held for B.J.Lawrence,a Clarke Road S.S.student who has
the Niemann-Pick type C medical condition. Mr.Bryce advised that B.J.was the former water boy
and assisted Clarke Road S.S.hockey, football and rugby teams and coaches during the sport
season.He extended congratulations to B.J. on receiving his graduation diploma as well as to the
staff and students at Clarke Road S.S.and the Lucas S.S.hockey team for their attendance and
participation at this special graduation ceremony to honour this outstanding student.
Director Bryce referred to questions raised by Trustees regarding the Administration bringing
recommendations for Accommodation Review Committee's (ARC's) to the Board in advance of the
2007 April 10 meeting.He advised that Exec.Supts.Thorpe and Greene and the administrative
group will be presenting recommendations for ARC'S at the Information Committee of the Whole
meeting on 2007 April 03. He noted that this meeting will provide an opportunity for questions of
clarification and that the debate will occur at the 2007 April 10 Regular Board meeting.A notice of
this meeting Is to be Issued to all stakeholders.Principals will be asked to use their school
communication sources to alert the community regarding the upcoming presentation.
The Director indicated that the London Community Foundation has provided all Thames Valley
secondary schools with a DVD resource entitled, "An Inconvenient Truth" by former U.S. Vice
President Al Gore. Director Bryce acknowledged the Foundation for donating this outstanding
educational resource that will be used to enhance the Geography curriculum.
B.Greene,Executive Superintendent,Business Services,advised that the Ministryof Education has
issued a unique grant of $264 000 to ease the financial pressures of rising fuel costs for
transportation.
10.a.CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES
The minutes ofthe 2007 March20 were amended to change the second paragraph of item lO.a.
Wellington Street P.S.Accommodation Committee to read ..."Grade '5'students"....The
amended minutes were approved on motion of T. Grant,seconded by R.Tisdale.
b.BUSINESS ARISING FROM MINUTES
Trustee Hart requested that the independent procedure on PupilAccommodation and Facility
Organization (Item 14.b.5.a.)contained inthe Policy Working Committee report be attached to
the 2007 March20 RegularBoardmeeting minutes. The following motionwas moved byG.Hart,
seconded by F.Exiey and carried:
That the Board endorse the Pupil Accommodation and Facility Organization independent
procedure Including the establishment of Area Review Committees and Include it in the
minutes of the 2007 March 20 Regular Board meeting.
2007 March 27...3
11.STUDENT TRUSTEES'UPDATE
Student Trustees Koscik and North attended an BP online meeting.Student Trustee Koscik advised
that he attended the Ministry meeting on Healthy Schools Initiatives in Toronto and aftenward an
OSTA-AECO Executive meeting.
12.REPORTS FROM THE ADMINISTRATION
a.BUDGET ISSUE -SPECIAL EDUCATION FUNDING
Executive Superintendent Greene presented a description of Special Education and Partnerships
for Excellence budgets.
Special Education
Special education is a protected envelope under the funding model.
The special education allocation establishes the amount each board must spend on special
education programs.
Any unspent funding must be placed in reserves.
The Ministry specifies types of spending for which the grant may be used and lists allowable
expenditures.
2005-06 Actual Results
in compliance with Ministry enveloping provisions
presented to the Special Education Advisory Committee (SEAC)on 2007 March 19
surplus of $1 115 938 transferred to reserves
2006-07 Budget
preliminary budget in deficit position of $5 279 654
•Board approved projected reserve balance of$1 554 457 be allocated to the 2006-07 budget
•approved Special Education budget in deficit position of $3 725 197
Special Education reserves now depleted
2007-08 Budget
Manager Roth highlighted the following:
• High Needs Amount converted to per pupil amount in 2006-07 with automatic adjustments
for enrolment
•2007-08 Grants for Student Needs (GSN's)addresses enrolment decline by ensuring 2007-
08 High Needs Amount will not be less than 2006-07 amount
•increase in support through the Special Incidence Portion
increase in support in the Special Equipment Amount
government committed to working with boards to have funding reflect variability of high needs
students
2007-08 Special Education Projections
Projected Revenue
SEPPA
Less Partnerships for Excellence
Special Equipment
High Needs Amount
First Nations Billings
Foundation Grant
Total Projected Revenue
35 200
1 513
(OOO's)
33 687
924
35 969
141
5 762
76 483
2007 March 21..A
12.REPORTS FROM THE ADMINISTRATION -cont'd
a.BUDGET ISSUE -SPECIAL EDUCATION FUNDING -cont'd
Projected Expenditures
Staffing Expenditures 80 539
Departmental Operating expenses 1 923
School Based Supports 166
Total Projected Expenditures 82 628
Projected Deficit 6 145
Partnerships for Excellence
Partnerships for Excellence is a Thames Valley initiative for JK -Grade 3 students.
• A portion ofPartnerships for Excellence is funded through Special Education grants.
TheSpecial Education portion of Partnerships for Excellence supportsearlyinterventions and
enhanced programs for students with speech and language disorders and learning
disabilities.
The Learning Opportunities portion of funding was removed In 2006-07.
Exec.Supt.L.Elliott described the Program Services literacy initiatives thatare underway as part
ofthe 2007-08 Budget process.She advised that Program Services is also,inconsultation with
principals,looking at a new model forthe Partnerships for Excellence.
Trustee Jaffe asked howthe needs are beingcalculatedbythe Ministry toenable boards tooffer
a wide-range ofspecial education programsandservices.Director Bryce respondedthat former
Education Minister Kennedy indicated itis not possible to provide funding to cover ail special
education needs.Minister Wynne hasnotcommented onspecial education funding.The Director
noted that the Budget Advisory Committeehas requested that the special education issue be
brought forward as it indicates the challenging decisionsthat will benecessary during the2007-
08 Budget deliberations.
b.MONTHLY FINANCIAL REPORT
Exec.Supt.Greene presented the month-end financial report asat 2007 February 28.The year-
to-date activity was provided and included a summary of revenues,expenditures byexpenditure
type,expenditures byarea,and expenditure type.Exec.Supt.Greene advised that,given the
difference between projected and actual enrolment,thereisa decline in funding of $1.1 M.He
noted that2007 March 31 isthesecond enrolment count date In the yearand cited a potential
$1.4M shortfall on the Utilities line.
c. SHORT-TERM FINANCING FOR BALANCEOF STAGE 1 AND 2 OF GOOD PLACES TO
LEARN
Exec.Supt.Greene presented a report seeking approval tosecure short-term financing ofupto
$40 345 171 for the balance ofthe TVDSB Stage1 Allocation and all oftheStage2 Allocation
of Good Places to Leam.
On 2005 February 18,the Ministry ofEducation announced the"Good Places to Learn:Renewing
Ontario's Schools"Initiative,in which the government has committed $4 billion for Capital
Improvements for Ontario's schools.The first component ofthis program Is for urgent and high
needs identified by the recently completed Ministry audit (ReCAPP).The Thames Valley District
School Board received a $39 114 548 allotment ofthe $1 billion grantforthis Initiative.
2007 March 27...5
12.REPORTS FROM THE ADMINISTRATION -cont'd
c.SHORT-TERM FINANCING FOR BALANCE OF STAGE 1 AND 2 OF GOOD PLACES TO
LEARN-cont'd
Included in Ministry Memorandum 2005:B4, the Ministry established a target short-term interest
rate of 2.75%.If a board was unable to arrange financing at this rate, it was to notify the
Business Services Branch and they would provide assistance through the joint government and
school board task force on capital financing under the direction of Ontario School Boards
Financing Corporation.
On 2005 August 30,the Ministry of Education issued 2005:B7 and advised boards that of the
seven proposals,the National Bank of Canada's financing rate was the most favourable.The
rate was Bankers'Acceptance (BA),based on market conditions at the time,of issuance,plus 13
basis points for a one,two or three month term.
Ministry of Education Memorandum 2006:SB15 issued on 2006 August 31 announced a planned
transition ofa portion of the short-term financing for Good Places to Learn Stage 1to a long-term
financing arrangement with the Ontario Financing Authority (OFA).The Ministryof Education
issued 2006:SB16 on 2006 September 13 outlining the requirements and timelines for the
planned debenture issue.At its 2006 October 24 meeting,the Board passed By-law #6
authorizing a loan from the Ontario Financing Authority in the principle amount of $24 111 892
pursuant to a loan agreement under Section 12 of Ontario Regulation 466/97.
On 2006 November 15,the Board received long-term financing in the amount of $24 111 892 to
replace existing short-term financing through the National Bank of Canada.On 2006 December
12,the Ministryof Education issued 2006:SB27 stating that the National Bank of Canada has
agreed to continue to provide short-term credit facility for the remaining Stage 1 allocations and
the Stage 2 allocations.
Summary of Good Places to Learn Allocations
Stage 1 Allocation $41 210 971
Stage 2 Allocation 23 246 092
$64 457 063
Permanently Financed Through Provincial Debentures (24 111 892)
Remaining Allocation Requiring Short-Term Financing $40 345 171
Where a board documents it has entered into a short-term financing arrangement,based on the
National Bank of Canada rate,the actual interest costs will be recognized by the Ministry of
Education for funding.Reimbursement will be at the three month Bankers Acceptance rate plus
.13%.Currently this rate is 4.48%.
RECOMMENDATION;
That the Board enter into a short-term credit facilitywith the National Bank of Canada for up to
$40 345 171,the remaining amount of the Good Places to Learn -Stage 1 Allocation and all of
the Stage 2 Allocation.
The recommendation was adopted on motion of P.Jaffe,seconded by F.Exiey.
2007 March 27...6
12.REPORTS FROM THE ADMINISTRATION -cont'd
d.2007-08 PROJECTED ENROLMENT AND PRELIMINARY TEACHER STAFFING
Exec. Supt.Greene presented the enrolment projections for the 2007-08 and 2008-09 school
year. The enrolment projections are used by Operations Services to begin the preliminary
elementary and secondary in-school staffing process.
The Ministry of Education memorandum 2006:SB 21,2006 October26,requires the submission
of 2007-08,2008-09 enrolment projections on 2006 November 30. J.Thorpe,Executive
Superintendent of Operations Services,explained the responsibility for the preparation of
enrolment projectionsforsubmission tothe Ministry ofEducationwhichare used forthe 2007-08
budget and determining staffinglevels. Preliminarystaffingforspecial education has not been
finalized and is subject to determining the Ministry funding level forspecial education and the
Special Education Plan. Thisisthe final year for the Implementation ofthe Primary GlassSize
initiative.Staffing requirements for 2007 September have not been finalized at this time.The
Preliminary Elementary Staffing Report provides for teacher staffing levels based on Ministry
funding.
It was notedthatthe costs are subjectto the 2007-08 preliminary budgetand the timelines to
staffing provisions of the collective agreements.
RECOMMENDATION:
Thatthe Board approve the preliminary2007-08 elementary and secondary staffing report for the
purpose of beginning the in-school staffing process and inclusion in the 2007-08 preliminary
budget.
The recommendation was adoptedon motion ofF.Exley,seconded by R.Tisdale.
e.DEPARTMENTAL UPDATE
Human Resource Services
-Disability Management is working with 56staff members in their return to work programs as
a resultof non-occupational and occupationalillnesses and injuries;
- 2007 March activities oftheThames Valley District School Council (TVDSC)included the
items listed below:
TVDSC Chairperson B.Hopkins attended a Ministry of Education curriculum review
consultation session in Toronto;
-Chairperson Hopkins hasalso attended TVDSC meetings toassist groups as requested;
-TVDSC representatives attended the Dr.Joyce Epstein's presentation on 2007 February
21,theThamesValley Parent Involvement Workshop on2007 March 03as well as many
board committee meetings including Regional Capital Plan Advisory,Education Week,
Award of Distinction.Safe Schools,Parent Learning Forum,Policy Working and the
Regular Board;
- The TVDSC Chairperson reminded school council representativesthatpartoftheschool
council mandate isto provide inputtothe boardon policies and procedures. The TVDSB
link to the website draftpoliciesand procedures was provided inthe communication. It
was recommended thateach school council regularly checkthis link and provide input
to the TVDSB;
The TVDSC Chairperson has answered many school council questions on the Parent
Reaching Out grants,part of the Parent Involvement Funding from the Ministry of
Education.The listof approved applications was included in an email to school councils.
Also,school councils were reminded that the Parent Outreach and Mobilization Grant is
available to use to increase and support parent involvement;
2007 March 27...7
12.REPORTS FROM THE ADMINISTRATION -cont'd
e.DEPARTMENTAL UPDATE -cont'd
Human Resource Services -District School Council -cont'd
The TVDSC once again will host a mini-workshop before the regular scheduled meeting on
2007 March 22. The focus of the "Back to Basics"Workshop # 3, is increasing meeting
attendance;
The TVDSC has supported other school council groups inthe province through letter writing
to the Ministryof Education and networking on best practices;
The 4'^Annual Provincial School Council Symposiurn is in the final planning stage.School
board registrations are currentlybeing received witha large number already confirmed. It has
been confirmedthat representatives from TVDSB (principal,superintendent &director)will
be attending the event as well as three Thames Valley school council parent representatives.;
The Thames Valley Parent Involvement Committee hosted a Parent Involvement Workshop
on 2007 March 03 in the Thames Room at the Education Centre.Over 150 participants
including parents,staffand administration attended the informativeand interactiveworkshop.
The workshop began with opening greetings from Director Bryce on behalf of the TVDSB;
Dr.,Betty Boult,retired Superintendent of Education in British Columbia and author of "176
Ways to Involve Parents",was the guest presenter at the workshop entitled, "Making it
Happen".The objective of the session was to examine the roles and responsibilities of
parents,families and educators to create a framework for a meaningful partnership that
enhances the quality of education.Many school teams in attendance began to work towards
a parent involvement action plan for their school;
A copy of the publication was purchased by the TVPIC for each Thames Valley school.
Those in attendance were given a complementary copy and additional copies where made
available to purchase.Copies wilt be distributed to those schools who were unable to attend;
Using the information provided by the participants during the workshop and from the
workshop feedback forms, the TVPIC will continue to provide support and assistance to
Thames Valley schools in their efforts to engage parents.
Thames Valley Parent Involvement Committee Members:
Joyce Bennett-TVDSB Trustee
Teresa Blum -TVCHS
Teresa Gilbank-TVDSC
Randy Gordon-TVDSC
Brenda Hopkins-TVDSC
Dolly Hughes-TVCHS
Arlene Morell-TVDSC
Tammy Ross-TVDSC
Mike Sereda-Executive Superintendent,Human Resources Services
Carolyn Walker-TVDSC
On 2007 February 23,Arbitrator Gail Brent,delivered her Retirement Gratuity decision to the
Board and ETFO.The six page decision briefly highlighted the salient points of both
positions and the rationale for the decision,the final paragraph is included below:
"Having considered all of the submissions made by the parties,I have come to the
conclusion that it is unreasonable to award such a significant economic matter in
isolation.1therefore do not award the retirement gratuity as proposed by the Federation,
but rather uphold the Employer's position to award no gratuity.In so finding,I make no
comment on the reasonableness or unreasonableness of such clauses,this is a matter
best left for the parties to consider in the context of their complete economic package."
2007 March 27...8
12.REPORTS FROM THE ADMINISTRATION-cont'd
e.DEPARTMENTAL UPDATE-cont'd
Human Resource Services -cont'd
HR staff is beginning tlie process of reviewing secondary staffing needs for next year and
preparing an in-service for members from the In-Schooi Staffing committees on critical
dates and procedures to follow for next year's staffing needs;
Supt.Wagner explained the revised teacher performance appraisal process for
experienced teachers.School boards will be able to implement this new process as early
as 2007 April 01.Mr.Wagner reviewed the key elements of the revised appraisal.
Program Services
- An update of the Student Pathways for Success initiatives Included:
Ministry of Education will meet with the Director,Student Success Leader,and other staff
on 2007 March 26 to review and discuss the 2006-07 Student Success Annual Action
Plan including student success initiatives,successes,data and areas of concerns;
During2007 March and April,the Student Success Leader isvisiting secondary schools
to discuss team and student achievements in Semester 1 with members of the school's
Student Success Team.Trustees and Superintendents have been invitedto be a part
of these discussions.Many schools are reporting impressive results for Semester 1 for
Grade 9 students in pass rates and credit accumulation;
-Some of the Ten-Key Indicators of Success for 2005-06 include:
65 percent of grade 10 students have achieved all 16 credits (full-time timetables)after
two years of secondary school and are on track to graduate (upfrom62.8% in2004-05)
(60.5%for the province in 2005-06);
82.5 percent of first time eligible students fully participating in the OSSLT were
successful (up from 81.3%in 2004-05);
91.1 percent of students taking the Ontario Secondary School Literacy Course passed
giving them the literacy requirement for graduation (up from 83.4 percent In2004-05);
87.1 percent of secondary schools are offering Locally Developed Compulsory Credit
courses In Grades 9 and 10 (upfrom 66.7 percent in 2003-04,and 73.3 percent In 2004-
05);
7.3 percent was the annual school leaver rate from 2005 October to 2006 October
(down from 8.6 percent in 2004-05);
7.8 percent of grade 8 students are at risk in Language (down from 11.6 percent in 2004-
05);
13.8 percent of grade 8 students are at risk in Mathematics (down from 14.1 percent in
2004-05).
Positive results are attributed to the focus on student success and new programs and
strategies available to students.
-The Ministry of Education has indicated that the minimum allocation of 1.0 PTE Student
Success Teacher per secondary school may be allocated In a differentiated manner
according to school needs.Therefore,some schools may have less than the 1.0 PTE,and
other schools may have more (as long as the allocation Is 1.0 PTE "on average").
Deliberations are under way among Superintendents and related staffing committees to
determine/examine school needs,profiles and allocations for Student Success Teachers to
each secondary school for2007-08,consistent withthis new Ministry direction.The Ministry
has stated that a minimum of 50 percent of any Student Success Teacher's time must be
devoted to non-Instructional timeforthe purposes ofdirect student advocacy,monitoringand
tracking of students at risk of not graduating:
2007 March 27...9
12.REPORTS FROM THE ADMINISTRATION-cont'd
e.DEPARTMENTAL UPDATE -cont'd
Program Services -Student Pathways for Success initiatives -cont'd
-The Student Success Teachers frorh each secondary school ,will attend the Ontario
Professional Learning Communities Provincial Summit in Toronto on 2007 April 18,19 and
20,funded by Student Pathways for Success.Itis the Ministry's expectation that Student
Success Teachers receive professional development on professional learning communities.
This will give these leaders a chance to discuss common assessments,pyramids of
interventions,and examine the realities of building professional learning communities with
pressing educational Issues,such as reaching the graduation target,in mind.The SST's
have been studying the PLC model this entire school year through a book study of "Whatever
It Takes:How Professional Learning Communities Respond When Kids Don't Learn",by
Richard Dufour.DuFour is one of the speakers at the Summit;
-The third annual Work Internship Recognition Awards Dinner will be held on 2007 May 16
at Thames S.S.(London).One student from each secondary school witha Work Internship
Program will receive this Recognition Award, which has criteria based on the TVDSB
foundation principles.Parents,teachers,and employers are invitedto attend this celebration.
The Chairperson of the Board and the Director have also received invitations.If other
trustees wish to attend,they should contact Marie Chambers;
- With the assistance of Teacher-Librarians,a new poster campaign is underway to promote
reading among students.The literacy posters feature students and staff members from the
individual schools who were "caught in the act" of reading a wide range of materials (books,
newspapers,comics,manuals,textbooks,email,etc.).The goal is to show students that
reading is fun,informative,and necessary,and that the people with whom they interact each
day like to read and benefit from this essential skill;
-Secondary schools are now running Credit Recovery Programs for students who have failed
courses,and who are seen as appropriate candidates for the program by the school's Credit
Recovery Team.Through Credit Recovery,students must complete any missing expectations
from their original attempt with the course.In 2006-07 Semester 1 there were 466.5 credits
recovered by students,Grades 9 -12;
-Students in Grades 7, 8 or 9 will receive the Student Success Credit Tracker card the week
of 2007 March 19.This handy folding card shows students what they need to graduate.
Students can keep track of their credits by filling in the appropriate boxes with the courses
and credits completed.The card is about 3" x 4 Vz"in size and comes in a protective plastic
sleeve.Teachers can also use the Tracker as a communications or planning tool when they
meet with parents.Samples of the Tracker were distributed to Trustees.
-The following update of Applied Studies and The Arts was presented:
-Four new instrumental programs have been implemented for Grade 7 and 8 students in East
Oxford,Northdale (Woodstock),Biddulph and Aberdeen P.S.,which leaves eight more
qualifying schools on the waiting listfor new programs;
-Twenty six elementary school bands will participate in the non-competitive Arts Festival on
April30 - May 3 in the Thames Room, CEC Central;
- New this year to the Secondary Music was the first Honour Band held on February 24 at
Saunders S.S.(London). Deserving students from every wind program inthe TVDSBwere
invited to come to this full-day workshop which was a resounding success.The first
performancescheduled for Variety is on2007March01 was unfortunately cancelleddue to
the poor weather conditions;
2007 March 27...10
12.REPORTS FROM THE ADMINISTRATION-cont'd
e.DEPARTMENTAL UPDATE -cont'd
Prograrti Services • Applied Studies and The Arts -cont'd
-Arts funding from the Ministry has been used to provide Musical Literacy and Dance
workshops for everyschooland two classsets ofWorld Drumming Kits havebeenpurchased
for loan to schools;
-Community partnerships play significant roles in the lives of Thames Valley students.
Museum London wasthelocaleforVisual ArtsThink Literacy Workshops,Grades 9-12 in the
fall of 2006 and will host another inservice on Children's Book Illustration and Careers inArt
in late 2007 March.Two art exhibitions.Students Telling Tales and Make Your Mark,
currently at Museum London,showcase work from morethan 150 Thames Valley students
demonstratingtheir abilities to link artand text in verycreativeways.Student artwork isalso
beingshown at the Woodstock Art Gallery in 2007 April and May;
-Secondary Visual Arts teachers have created websites that will enable them to showcase
student work,display lessonsandother relevant material foraccess tostudents,parentsand
the entire community. The trainingwas provided by the Curriculum Coordinators inthe IT
Department;
- Asupport document to meet the critical thinking expectations inthe VisualArts curriculum
and linking them to the new media strand in the Language document has been created.
Resources (FineArtposters),instructional strategies, and the supportdocument will besent
to each elementary school later this spring;
-All secondary schools recently received curriculum support materials for five Business
Studies Courses -Accounting,Marketing,Information Technology,Introduction toBusiness
and International Business.The development ofthese materials comes In responsetothe
revised Business Curriculum document;
-On 2007 January 11,more than 35 teachers (Co-op and Work Internship)received
Cooperative Education training onthe policies and procedures document for experiential
learning programs.Future in-services will focus on the development of the Personalized
Placement Learning Plan (PPLP);
-Secondary guidance counselors receivedjob-specific training in 2006 October and 2007
January. Thefocus thisyear isa bookentitled "Solving School Problems: ASolution-focused
Approach",thatteaches counselors tofocusmoreonthe solution,notthe problem;
- More Pathways to Destinations sessions were held for Grade 7 and 8 teachers.These
sessions focus on developing knowledge of all student pathways,with extraemphasis on
those that lead directlyto the workplace after high school;
- A highlight this year was the implementation of the Thames Vailey District School Board
PathwayPlanner in Grades 8and 9. The resourcewas developed in cooperation with and
purchased by the Student Pathways to Success portfolio.The teachers were given a
package of materials to promote literacy skills through the use ofthe planner;
-Additional Quality Daily Physical Activity funding,hasbeen announced bythe Ministry.There
will be additional new QDPA classroom resources.More secondaryschoolshave joined the
QDPA movementby training leadership classes to leadfitness inelementary schools;
Both elementary and secondary schools are involved in the Ministry's Healthy Schools
Recognition Program. Schools that have accepted the challenge of creating a healthier
school will be recognized for theirparticipation with theawardofa pennantfor display in their
school;
/
2007 March 27...11
12.REPORTS FROM THE ADMINISTRATION-cont'd
e.DEPARTMENTAL UPDATE -cont'd
Program Services -Applied Studies and The Arts -cont'd
- The Board has launched the Swim to Survive Lifesaving Society survival training program.
Grade 3's across the region have the opportunity to visit a local aquatic facility on three
separate occasions.The Society defines the minimum skills needed by all Canadians to
survive an expected fall Into deep water;
- The Technological Education 9 -12 curriculum documents are currently being reviewed for
roll out in2008 September.The Technology SkillsCompetition plans are taking place forthe
firstSkillsCompetition which is scheduled on 2007 April 4 from 1:00 - 5:00 p.m. at Saunders
Secondary School (London):
The Amazing Building Challenge sponsored by the London Homebuilders'Association will
take place from 2007 April 02 -04 at Museum London.This IS*''annual Amazing Building
Challenge is designed to encourage interest in home design and construction in London
students.The challenge isopen to both elementary and secondary students.Industryand
academic judges will determine the winners and cash prizes are to be awarded;
- Special Olympics will take place again this year at University of Western Ontario's T.D.
•Waterhouse Stadium during the week of2007 May28. TVDSB has partnered withInvesting
in Children, and the Ontario Special Olympics to finance and assist in the deliveryof this
important event;
- On 2007 March 2 and 3 TVDSB hosted the Elementary Basketball Championships.This
year more than 200 teams and approximately 2 400 students took part inthe competitive
basketball program. This is the eighth year of the TVDSB Elementary Basketball
Championships;
- Inspite ofthe harsh weather during2007 February,TVRAA Winter Sports have concluded
another successful season with over 400 student athletes from TVDSB schools movingon
to OFSAAcompetitions inBoys'Basketball,Girls'Volleyball,Curling,Swimming,Wrestling,
and Boys' and Girls' Hockey.Students are competing in provincial championships allover
the province including Gloucester,Oshawa,Belleville,and Stratford;
- Executive Superintendent Elliott recognized Supt. Hutchinson and the Information
Technology stafffor meeting the deadline onthe ONSIS submission and as a resultreceiving
a further$326000 MISA grant.This will enable IT stafftofurtherextend the developmentof
the SKOPUS data base and the related issues.Because of implementation slow down there
is still much work to be done extending trainingto school principals and staffs.OurSKOPUS
Implementation leader KeithStewart,has agreed to stay on for one more year to complete
the work he was originally assigned.MISA grants will cover the expenditure for his salary;
-The land telephone line conversion project is on schedule and on time.All administrative
offices will be completed in early 2007 April.Work will then commence In the schools;
-The Active Directory project is also on schedule and within budget.Atotal of 90 schools will
be completed this year and the entire system by next year.This project constitutes a major
move forward for IT.
Business Services
- Facility Services Projects and Maintenance Capital Projects initiatives included: Design
Committee for Southeast St.Thomas Elementary School,Additions at Strathroy D.C.i.,
Algonquin and Hickson Central Public Schools;Primary Class Size Additions at Chippewa,
Clara Brenton and Forest Park Public Schools,Kensal Park P.S.;Drawings and Specification
completed for Parkside Collegiate lnstitute(St.Thomas)as well as School Renewal at Laurier
S.S.;
2007 March 27...12
12.REPORTS FROM THE ADMINISTRATION-cont'd >
e.DEPARTMENTAL UPDATE -cont'd J
Business Services -cont'd
-Financial Services initiatives included a presentation of the 2006 August 31 Thames Valley
Education Foundation Audited Financial Statements to the TVEF Board on 2007 February 28.
The annual Charities Information Return for the Board and the Thames Valley Education
Foundation completed and filed with Canada Revenue Agency;
Financial Services has started the mandatory training of approximately 300 staff who require
access to upgraded Board and new Non-Board Funds financial software.The training is taking
place at all three Education Centres and is to be complete by the end of 2007 May;
-SupportServices update included:Transportation Services'presentation at New Administrator's
Session;Summer school transportation planning and the design "process for the "Guide to
Special Transportation Calendar".Supt.Blair explained the TVNELP Backpack Program.
Distribution Centre (DC)staff distributed the TVNELP backpacks according to schedule,.In
2007 April the Smart Science Project is beginning,DC staff continue delivering a large number
of computers to schools for the Active Directory deployment team.
Director's Services
-Director Bryce along with Trustees Hart,Tisdale and Polhill,Supt.Hughes and London District
Catholic School Board and French Language District School Board representatives met with
Minister Wynne.She responded to a variety of questions on Primary Class Size
implementation issues,the development of the Transportation Consortium,the Prohibitive to
Repairs grant and the release of the Grants for Student Needs.As well, Minister Wynne also
visited White Oaks P.S.,to receive an in-depth briefing on the school's literacy initiative,touring
a number of classrooms,visited the Best Start program and learning about our valuable '
partnership with the City of London atthe site;^
-The following meetings and events were attended by the Director:Thames Valley Education
Foundation Annual General Meeting,Fanshawe College's Young Women's Conference "A
World of Choices:Embracing Your Future",Museum London -The London Life Making Art
Creating Community Program,The Grand Theatre's 2007/08 Season Announcement;Ministry
of Education Information Session re: First Nations Education Funding:Special Education and
Tuition Agreements;Thames Valley Education Foundation;and Ministry of Education's review
of Student Pathways for Success program;
-The Director brought greetings and/or presented at the following events:2007 Parent
Involvement Workshop - "Making It Happen -Ways to Involve Families in Education"; St.
Thomas Rotary Club- "Current Challenges and Opportunities in Thames Valley";UnitedWay
of London and the Muslim Educators Council Character Building and Leadership Conference;
-Staff Development initiativesincluded: Mid-yearNewHires Conference,NewTeacher Program,
NewTeacher Mentors,NewTeacher Induction Program,Administrative Mentoring;Leadership:
The Administrator inTraining, Meeting Management,Development Program and Facilitating
Effectively:Occasional Teachers Professional Development,Professional Development for
Experienced Teachers,Professional Reading Program,Leading Lesson Study,Powerful
Designs for Professional Learning,Professional Development Day and the 2007 Leadership
Conference.Director Bryce noted that the 2007 Leadership Conference is to be held on 2007
April 19 and extended an invitation to Trustees to attend this event.
- Public Affairs and Community Relations (PACR) initiatives included:Thames Valley Education
Foundation AnnuaF General Meeting,Student Awards and Scholarships inservice sessions,
new telephone system and Board Store promotional products;/
Jane Antoniak and Jason Rake,PACR,demonstrated the first video-based news segments in
the Board's web magazine."Links:News from Across the Valley".
2007 March 27...13
12.REPORTS FROM THE ADMINISTRATION-cont'd
e.DEPARTMENTAL UPDATE -cont'd
Director's Services -cont'd
Director Bryce commented that on 2007 April 03,250 Thames Valley students will be travelling
to France to join more than 5,000 Canadian students at the Vimy Ridge 90th Anniversary
observances scheduled for2007 April 09. He advised that Ms.Antoniak has been instructingfive
TVDSB students on procedures as well as outlining the expectations of collecting the daily
dispatches for TVDSB.
Operation Services
- On 2007 February 28 and March 01 workshops facilitated by Barrie Bennett were held with
positive feedback received.The ill Co-Ordinating Committee is meeting to review plans for
further workshops over the remainder of the 2006-07 school year and beyond;
-The Elementary District Staffing Committee met on 2007 March 20 to develop allocations of
staff to schools.Allocations were made following the Ministry of Education's guidelines on
primary class size and the class ranges as outlined in the collective agreement.
Principal/ETFO partners worked together to allocate staff using an electronic program through
the guidance and support of Nathan Luo, Katie Steele and IT personnel;
-The 2007 March 01 New Administrator session "Leading Instructional Intelligence in Your
School",facilitated by Barrie Bennett was a huge success.This session was for the New
Administrators and administrators who have not been part of a Cohort Group as well as
Learning Coordinators.Regional Team Success stories and Instructional Intelligence Module
overviews with information on Instructional Repertoire,Student Assessment,Cooperative
Learning and Classroom Management were highlighted for the group.This session was
planned to assist administrators to lead the Instructional Intelligence initiative in their schools.
The next session for the New Administrators is scheduled for 2007 April26 and the topic is to
be Leadership Connections!From Site to System;
-The following projects were completed or major project components undertaken/completed
during late 2007 February/early March by Research and Assessment Services staff:
-Consultation with school teams and Principals regarding data use;
- Budget tracking of expenses for student Literacy component of LOG; on-going support for
school-based projects;interim budget reports collected;
-Scoring/analysis of OSSLT practice assessments for secondary schools;
-Continued mapping secondary and French Immersion boundaries;
r Conducting spatial analysis of EDI data (Early Development Instrument);
-Submission of data sets to Education Quality Accountability Office (EQAO)for Grade 9 2007
Spring;
-Support for schools using the EQAO Student Data Collection process;
-Preparation of spring testing material for school-based assessments;
-Continued processing/approval of external research requests;
-Design of several surveys for school initiatives;
-Supervision of student thesis on TVNELP program;
-Updates to Research and Assessment website;
-Deaf and Hard of Hearing review -focus group summary and report preparation;
-Data entry for Staff Workload Survey for Joint Management/CUPE Committee;
-Compliance verification of secondary teacher workloads;
-Commencement of staffing of secondary schools;
-Development of workshop and evaluation plan for OPA grant project;
-Continuing analysis of Reading Recovery and Keys to Literacy data;
- Making A Difference Conference summary report;
-CEC-South Instructional Intelligence report completed;
-Completed interim report for Reconnect 2006-07 cohort;
-Aggregating statistics for Reconnect (Semester 2 of 2004-05 to Semester 1 of 2006-07);
2007 March 27...14
12.REPORTS FROM THE ADMINISTRATION-cont'd
e.DEPARTMENTAL UPDATE-cont'd
Operation Services ,Research and Assessment Services -cont'd
-Revisions to access form for Specialized Coop teachers and prepared Semester 2 database;
-Revised last year's online survey for 2007-08 enrolment projections and provided
Implementation support;
-Completed analysis and report on Grade 7 and 8 Career Education Teacher Survey;
- LOG -revised and distributed Project Implementation Guide;
-Review and analysis of SKOPUS DRA components;
-Designed DRA Interface for teacher web-based input of DRA information;
-Designed a student assessment profile Information Extract for the portal;
- Bring census information into ArcGIS and attach the information to boundaries;
-Presentation at EDI SIG (Special Interest Group)conference;
- Analysis of EDI data;creation of maps/PowerPoint slides for the EDI presentation;
-Create maps for Planning Officer and Manager of Projects and Maintenance;
- Revised Story Reformulation Senior Kindergarten assessment with Speech and Language
Pathologists;
-Completed the ESL resource allocation for 2007 spring;
-Started the design phase of the DRA web parts;
-Elementary staffing -assisted in the District level staffing and PCS refinements.
-Safe Schools initiatives included: Model Projects to Promote Positive Student Behaviour,
Grade 8 Fourth RCurriculum,Grade 11 English Curriculum,Youth Leadership Development,
Locally Developed Course -Grade 9/11 Aboriginal Leadership Course.Grade 8 Aboriginal
Conference,Aboriginal Perspective Fourth RCurriculum,Capacity Building for Educators and
First Nation Counsellors,Ontario Education Services Corp.Bullying &Violence Prevention
Special Circumstances Fund,and Violence Prevention Committee.
13.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES
a. REPORT OFTHESPECIAL EDUCATION ADVISORY COMMITTEE 2007 February 6
12:15 p.m.-3:10 p.m.
Members
J. Bennett,Trustee (Chair)J. Gritzan,Thames ValleyChildren's Centre
T.Grant,Trustee B.Hoffman,Autism Ontario London
M.Barbeau,VOICE E.Karry,Children's Aid Society of London &
A.Craig,Learning Disabilities Association -London Middlesex
Region (LDA-LR)G. McGahey,Chippewas of the Thames First
D.Ensing,Association for Bright Children (-i:30p.m.)Nation Board of Education
C.Thammavongsa (Alt.)(-2:40 p.m.)A. Morse,Easter Seals Society
P.Gillis,Integration Actionfor Inclusion London C. Walker,Thames ValleyDistrictSchool
Chapter (lAI)Council
S. Wilson,Community Living Education
Committee
Administration and Others
D.Blair,Superintendent of Education (-12:50 p.m.)
B.Noble,Learning Supervisor
J.VanBommel,Secondary School Vice-Principal
G. Ball,Corporate Services Assistant
2007 March 27...15
Regrets:P.Cook,E.Hagar,A.Loebus,B.Montminy,R.Tisdale
Absent:D.Almost,B.Harvey
Guests:M.Masters (Alt.)
Presenters:Laurie Baker,Melissa Somerton,Elizabeth Giroux, Karen Gregory
1.CALL TO ORDER
The meeting was called to order at 12:25 p.m.in the Elgin Room at the Education Centre.
The Committee was thanked for the flexibility In changing room locations at the last minute.
B.Noble and A.Morse were thanked for coordinating the in-service for the new members
held from 10:00-11:45 a.m.
2.CONFIRMATION OF AGENDA
The motion to approve the agenda was carried.
3.CONFLICTS OF INTEREST
No conflicts of interest were declared.
4.REPORT OF MEETING FROM 2007 JANUARY 9
The motion to approve the minutes of the 2007 January 9 meeting was carried.
5.SPECIAL EDUCATION BUDGET
Superintendent Blair indicated that he met with Brian Greene,Executive Superintendent of
Business Services,and Jane Roth,Manager,Financial Services,to discuss the 2006-2007
and 2007-2008 Budgets.Executive Superintendent Greene and J. Roth would like to attend
the 2007 March meeting and review the status of the SEAC budget for the following year.
The overall issue of declining-enrolment,decreased Ministry funding and the increased
students in special education programming has created a deficit in funding for Special
Education.The TVDSB Trustees are to meet with MPPs this month to discuss the issues of
the increasing population of special education students across the province and the funding
provided.
SEAC would like to provide input to the Budget and it was determined that it would be
necessary to hold two meetings to cover the material.The first meeting,to be held in March,
will cover the budget in broader terms and review the differences between what we have and
what is available.At the second meeting,inApril,there will be a briefing of what is expected
for next year and the changes that are expected.B. Noble Indicated that it has been a
goals/needs based budget.
6.OCTOBER 25,2006 SYMPOSIUM REPORT
B.Noble presented a shortened version of the 13-page summary provided at the January
SEAC meeting that contained data and information to share with the local MPPs.She noted
that over the years,special education needs have increased and funding has not been
available because of the overall enrolment decliner
The Ministry is reviewing Individual Education Plans through regional meetings with parents
and school administration involvement.B.Noble clarified the procedures for these meetings
The Ministryof Education will be reviewing the structure of the lEP.There will be a break-out
session with small groups.The discussion will not focus on the personal details.Instead,
the concern will be ifa particular area of information is included.The information the parents
share will be recorded and then compiled for review at the school board level.D.Ensing will
be participating,A.Morse will be involved with another aspect of the discussions and
encourages another parent,preferably one that is not on the committee,to attend.The
meetings will take place on March 22 for parents and March 23 for Board staff.The final
decision will be made as soon as possible as to who will be attending.
2007 March 27...16
13.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd
a.REPORT OF THE SPECIAL EDUCATION ADVISORY COMMITTEE-cont'd
7.MEETING DATE -ADDITIONAL SEAC MEETING
It was agreed the cancelled SEAC meeting in December will be rescheduled and the date
will be decided at the March meeting.It was suggested to hold the additional meeting during
the Budget review.
8.SEAC UPDATES
8.1 Inclusionary Practices Symposium:
Dave LeConte will be presenting at the 2007 February 12 Symposium.The work to
enhance inclusionary practices was not completed.Representation from this committee
will assist the Board to continue with this project.
8.2 Student Data Tracking
Laurie Baker,Manager,Community Access Service of Community Living London,
reported that Community Living London was hired by the Ministry of Community and
Social Services to formulate a tracking tool for students with intellectual disabilities who
have graduated from high school.This involved the tracking of students from both the
TVDSB and the LDCSB. A data sheet was enclosed with the agenda package for
review. L.Baker noted there is roomfor improvement incollecting and utilizing the data
for future recommendations and improvement of services for high school graduates.
8.3 Transitions from School to Work or Post-Secondary Planning
Karen Gregory, Learning Coordinator-Special Education: Betty Giroux,Department
Head-Special Education, SirFrederick Banting S.S.;and Melissa Somerton,Department
Head-Special Education,Montcalm S.S.,joined the meeting.
K.Gregory explained the various steps of implementation which included time frames
and guidelines for the Transition plans. The standards and requirements are from lEP
Regulation 181.The lEP Is a legal part of the Transition plan and gifted students who
are solelygifted,are exempt. Itisa legalrequirementthat students age 14 years ofage
are to have a transitionplan inplace whichis individualized to their specific needs.The
developing of specific goals, the actions and steps to meet the goal and the people
responsible for the various steps are to be outlined in the Transition plans.The long-
range plan is to be reviewed annually. Itwas clarifiedthat the Principal is responsible
forensuring the co-ordinationand development ofthe plan, not the assignment oftasks
identified within the plan.
M.Somerton discussed the practices at Montcalm S.S. for the higher functioning
developmental students and added that these students require seven years of high
school planning to ready themselves for community workplace and leisure activities. M.
Somerton's team has produced a manual Transition Planning for Secondary Students
with Special Needs,and has made it available to SEAC.Students in this stage of
transition have a learning environment based on basic lifestyleskills includingshopping
and public transportation experiences.Their work skills include simple tasks for
community businesses which can be completed at the school.
B. Giroux discussed the practices at Sir Frederick Banting S.S.for the highest-needs
developmental and medically fragile students.There is.an agency attached with the
students which offers a parental support system.
2007 March 21..M
13.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd
a.REPORT OF THE SPECIAL EDUCATION ADVISORY COMMITTEE -cont'd
8.SEAC UPDATES -cont'd
The transition planforthe Pervasive Developmental Disorder (POD)student Involvesan
individualized approach to assist the student to gain skills to v\/ork independently within
their capabilities. This includes the parental and community supports forthe students in
the high school system.Encouragement and support is an integral component of the
learning plan. A percentage of students inthis group can earn high school credits. The
issue oftransition is geared towards the lower-needs students notingthat these students
are under employed.
9.COMMITTEE UPDATES
9.1 Communications
SEAC Evaluation Form
A.Morse gave a brief history about the SEAC evaluation form including the fact that it
was reviewed in2005. Chair Bennett reviewed the data from the January meeting.
The comments were positive towards the structure of the agenda,the timing of the
meeting, the tirne used in the meeting, how sufficient background material for review
was provided,and that recommendations were made collaboratively.
10.CORRESPONDENCE
10.1 Special Education Newsletter -2007 January
B.Noble reported that the Special Education newsletter is a communication tool to
support schools.Ms.Noble reviewed items in the newsletter which was attached
to the agenda.
10.2 Letter from Ontario Association of Education Advocates Dr.Norm Forman.
10.3 Dr.Temple Grandin Presentation:2007 May 10,7:00 p.m.at Centennial Hall.
Brenda Hoffman,Autism Ontario London,has more information.
11.FORUM:ASSOCIATION UPDATES
It was noted that the Association for Bright Children of Ontario,will hold its Annual
Conference on 2007 April 13 &14.
12.FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS:
Transition Planning
Student Pathways for Success/Destinations will be discussed at the March meeting.
An implementation plan for gifted students will be reviewed at the April meeting.
13.ADJOURNMENT
A motion to adjourn at 3:10pm was carried.
The following future meetings were scheduled:
2007 Monday,March 5,7:00-9:00 p.m.in the London Room;
2007 Monday,April 2,7:00-9:00 p.m.,London Room;
2007 Monday,May 7,7:00-9:00 p.m.,London Room;
2007 Tuesday,June 5, lunch 11:45 a.m.,meeting:12:15-3:00 p.m.,London Room.
J.BENNETT,
Chair
RECOMMENDATIONS:none
b.SEAC CHAIR'S REPORT,2007 MARCH 19 -none
2007 March 27...18
13.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd
c.REPORT OF THE NATIVE ADVISORY COMMITTEE 2007 March 20
1:05 p.m.-3:10 p.m.
Members
J.Bennett,Trustee
T.Grant,Trustee
M.Hendrick,Trustee,Chair
M. Elijah,Oneida of the Thames
R.Doxtator,Oneida of the Thames
Administration and Others
L. Elliott,Executive Superintendent,Prog.
Serv.
E.Good,Languages &Social Sciences (-
2;15p.m,}
C.Graves,Languages &Social Sciences
S.Miller,Attendance &Social Work Services
J.Antone,Native Counsellor,Saunders S.S.
P.Cornelius,Native Counsellor,A.E.Duffield
P.S.
S.McCoomb,Principal,M.B.McEachren
P.S.(+1;35p.m.)
B.Miskiman,Principal,Thames S.S.
Regrets:P.Sattler,C.VanEvery-Albert,S,
Boddaert,L. Brown, V.Hopkins,
Absent:B.Tichenoff,P.Tufts.
Guests:C. Langille,Executive Director,
N'Amerind Friendship Centre.;
G. McGahey,Chippewas of the Thames
S.Aibert-Ninham,Chippewas of the
Thames
C.Poison,Munsee-Delaware
T.Sillaby-Ramsey,Native Counsellor,H.B.
Beal S.S.
T.Smith,Principal,Westminster Central
P.S.(+1;40p.m.)
P.Sydor,V.P.,Saunders S.S.
G. Ball,Corporate Services
Guests (cont'd):Cheyenne French,
Saunders S.S.Student.
1.CALL TO ORDER
The meeting convened at 1:05 p.m. inthe libraryof Saunders Secondary School.Saunders
S.S. student.Cheyenne French,opened the meeting with the Smudging Ceremony.
2.APPROVAL OF AGENDA
A motion to accept the agenda was carried.
3.CONFLICTS OF INTEREST
No conflicts of interest were declared.
4.CONFIRMATION OF VOTING MEMBERS
5.
-Trustees (3)
-Oneida of the Thames (3)
-Chippewas of the Thames (2)
-Munsee-Delaware Nation (1)
J.Bennett,T.Grant,M.Hendrick
M. Elijah, R.Doxtator
G.McGahey,S.Aibert-Ninham
C.Doison
WELCOME AND INTRODUCTIONS
Chair Hendrick welcomed participants and asked them to introduce themselves.
2007 March 27...19
13.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd
c.REPORT OF THE NATIVE ADVISORY COMMITTEE -cont'd
6.REPORT OF MEETING -2007 February 13
A motion to approve the report of 2007 February 13 as printed was carried.
Business Arising from the Minutes
a.Presentation of A.C.Asl<ew Awards at a Board-Meeting
Chair Hendrick has yet to set a date withS. Christie,Supervisor -Corporate Services.
b.A.C.Askew Sub-Committee
The school Native Counsellors have the information for students to apply for the A.C.
Askew Award.The students'applications will be reviewed by the sub-committee and the
selection of the winner will be determined by May 16.The winner's name will be
submitted to R.Princis,Coordinator Development PublicAffairs&Community Relations,
by 2007 May 16.
The sub-committee was chosen at the previous meeting of February 13 and consisted
of Chair Hendrick, C. Dolson, G.McGahey and S.Albert-Ninham.The Oneida of the
Thames has formal representation on the Native Advisory Committee,effective 2007
February 27 and M. Elijah has been added to this sub-committee.
The sub-committee will meet on Monday, May 14 to select the recipient of this year's
A.C.Askew Award.
c.Job Description of Native Counsellors
E. Good will followup withS. Book who has the job description of the Native Counsellors
and will bring It to the April meeting.
d.Transition Period Grade 8-9
G.McGahey will present the Transition Plan from grade 8 at a future meeting.
e. N'Amerind Representation of the Native Advisory Committee
Executive Superintendent Elliott and Chair Hendrick prepared a letter to Executive
Director Chester Langille of N'Amerind Friendship Centre indicating that the Native
Advisory Committee was established based on the tuition agreement between the
TVDSB and First Nations.This agreement does not allow for non-tuition aboriginal
organizations to have a voting position on this committee;however,the input and support
from N'Amerind will continue to be supported and appreciated at the Native Advisory
meetings.
f.Native Cultural Fund Sub-Committee
C.Graves,G.McGahey,C. Dolson and S.Albert-Ninham were appointed at the previous
Native Advisory Committee meeting to ensure the remaining Native Cultural funds were
allocated appropriately.
There are funds available in the Business Travel and Native Advisory Committee
accounts.C.Graves suggested that a budget adjustment can be made to transfer these
funds into another account,then,the purchase of Native resources for the schools could
be made.These funds need tobe spent before April 1^'.The school representatives are
asked to have their lists sent to C.Graves by Friday, March 23,at noon.She will then
purchase the resources by March 31®'based on the amount offunds remaining in the
Native Cultural Fund,between $900.-$1,100.
It was noted that C.Langille has offered the purchase of Native resources through
N'Amerind Friendship Centre.The suggestion made by C.Graves was supported by the
committee.
2007 March 27...20
13.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd
c.REPORT OF THE NATIVE ADVISORY COMMITTEE -cont'd
7.CODE Project Proposal
Exec.Supt.Elliott presented the Council of Ontario Directors of Education (CODE)Project
proposal.The deadline for the application is March 23rd and Exec.Supt.Elliott,with C.
Graves and E.Good,worked diligently over the March Break to prepare the proposal for
submission.She outlined in detail the proposal and how the funds were to be disbursed.
The goals included items such as:closing the gap between literacy and numeracy;increase
the graduation rate;increase public confidence in the education system;the implementation
of the self-identification of aboriginal students;professional development for staff;review of
current resources and curriculum;hire a curriculum writing team;and to better the lines of
communication with parents to encourage them to become more active in the education
program of their children.
M. Elijah and G McGahey thanked Exec.Supt.Elliott,C.Graves and E.Good for putting
this proposal together within a short time frame.The goals that were expressed in the
proposal addressed issues of the members of the committee.
8.SELF-IDENTIFICATION FOR ABORIGINAL STUDENTS -UPDATE
Exec. Supt.Elliott updated the committee on the status of the draft policy on Self-
Identificationfor Aboriginal Students which is posted on the website for public input.She
encouraged the committee to share itwith their communities to review and make comments
on it.When comments are received, the policymay be revised and then presented to the
Policy Working Committee for approval. The procedure that follows,will be written by
Program Services with expected input from First Nations. Exec. Supt.Elliott expressed the
urgency for input on this policyfor implementation in 2007 September.
M.Elijah advised that the Rainbow District School Board, in conjunction with the
N'Swakamok Native Friendship Centre,had hosted an information session for feedback on
the Self-Identificationpolicy.Consensus fromthe attendees appreciated having a forum for
feedback on this policy. C. Langilleoffered to provide a meeting place at N'Amerindfor an
information session.
9.MINISTRY UPDATE ON TUITION AGREEMENTS
Exec. Supt.Elliott informed the committee that the tuition agreements are up for renewal in
2008.
10.PRINCIPALS'UPDATE
P. Sydor,Saunders S.S.,welcomed and thanked the committee for coming.Activities at
Saunders include the preparation ofthe literacy test on March29. The day isto be modified.
Progress reports are to go home March 21.The kick-offforthe annual cancer campaign will
be at the beginning of April.The Fourth R Program has a new student from the Native
community.
B. Miskiman,Thames S.S.,sent regrets from V. Hopkins. He advised that Thames has had
a good start to the second semester.This is the last semester that Thames will have as the
next school year will be non-semestered and include various start times for selected
academic pathways. The 4'"RProgramstarts thisweek. ThisJune, the school will hostthe
largest graduating class from Thames and Includeallstudents.A greater representation from
the Native community inthis graduating class versus previous years is welcomed.On March
30,Thames is proud to be hosting a meeting for vocational Principals from across the
province.
2007 March 27...21
13.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES-cont'd
c.REPORT OF THE NATIVE ADVISORY COMMITTEE -cont'd
10. PRINCIPALS' UPDATE- cont'd
L.Brown.Beal will be hosting theirthisweek.Preparations are well underway for the literacy test nextweek.The grade 10s and 11s were introduced to Algoma University College as an option
or post secondary Ms Sillby-Ramsey would like to have the personal plaque to present to
the last year s A.C.Askew Award recipient from Beal.Beal has also started the 4"^R
Program and is training new mentors for the Peer Mentor program.An initiative for the grade
8 transition period is to have the students visit Beal prior to their grade 9 arrival This visit
would include expenencing a day {or portion of it)at Beal and sitting in on one or two classes.
8.McCoomb.M.E McEachren P.S..came to the school at Christmas time.He took the
opportunity to ride the bus to school and meet some of the students.The students enjoyed
having the Principal on their bus.S.McCoomb visited the Standing Stone School.TheNaiveStudiesroomhasbeenmovedfromthebasementtoupstairsandhasencouragedthe
Native students to take pnde and ownership of their community.The initiative to bring
lacrosse to the school has been encouraging.S.McCoomb is working on bringing the SixNatit^s Lacrosse team to the school to show the students how a real game is played The
report cards are to go home on March 23.
T.Smith,Westminster Central P.S.,has been encouraging students to take part in extra-
success.He is overwhelmed by the enthusiasm displayed by
F^^1 23.It is encouraging to see thatFirstNatiorisstudentsarerepresentedontheacademichonourroll.On March 8th the first
annual spelling bee competition,sponsored by the Indigenous Education Council,took place
Standing Stone School with 13 Munsee-Delaware students participating.Two of themmovedfonvardtotheStandingStoneSchoolcompetitionand.unfortunately,were defeated
n nrtnTh^T f'*0 See the students take part In the spelling bee andfiStudents.Preparation is undenway for the EQAO testing in MayThestaffcontinuetoencouragestudentswithchallengestodotheirbestandofferextra
support to them.oauo
11.ADDITIONAL ITEMS
a.M.Elijah questioned the Native language program at Saunders and Beal.The Native
Language is quickly disappearing from the Native community.Native language classes
have guidelines that it is difficult to have a qualified teacher which results in the course
being cancelled The cancellation of the Native language classes discourages students
ongoing concern which occurs every SeptemberM.Elijah would like to have a procedure in place to secure a teacher for the Native
language program.Chair Hendrick will contact each of the First Nations for input on a
contingency plan.C.Graves concurred that a contingency plan should be implemented.
applications forms for a conference in Sault Ste.Marie on 2007
May 28-30.
c.Standing Stone School is putting on the Oliver Twist production and is in need of a Mr
Bumble outfit.If anyone has such a costume,please contact M.Elijah.The performance
IS scheduled for 2007 April 14/15/16.
12.DATE.TIME LOCATION OF FUTURE MEETINGS
Date,Time,Location of Future Meetings
The following Committeemeetings have been scheduled*
Tuesday,April 10,1:00 p.m.at H.B.Beal S.S.;
Tuesday,May 8,1:00 p.m.at Westminster Central P.S.;
Tuesday,June 12.3;00 p.m..Elgin Room at the London Education Centre.
2007 March 27...22
13.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd
c.REPORT OF THE NATIVE ADVISORY COMMITTEE -cont'd
13.ADJOURNMENT
A motion to adjourn ttie meeting at 3:10 p.m.was carried.
RECOMMENDATIONS:none
M.HENDRICK,
Chairperson
d.REPORT OF THE BUDGET ADVISORY COMMITTEE 2007 March 21
8:30 a.m.-9:58 a.m.
MEMBERS PRESENT ADMINISTRATION AND OTHERS
T.Roberts (Chair)R.Tisdale B.Greene J.Berkin
F.Exiey P.Settler (-9:30 a.m.)J. Roth P.Hearse
S.Macey R.Kamphuis
Trustee Visitor: T.Grant (+8:50 a.m.)
1.APPROVAL OF AGENDA
The agenda was approved on the motion of Trustee ExIey.
2.CONFLICTS OF INTEREST
None declared.
3.2007-08 PRELIMINARY BUDGET ASSUMPTIONS AND PROCESS
Executive Superintendent B.Greene reviewed the Preliminary Budget Assumptions.
Discussion took place on the need to capture the importance of making budget decisions,not
just for this year but for future years,in light of the projected decline in enrolment
It was moved and approved that the 2007-08 Preliminary Budget Assumptions be approved
as follows:
The 2007-08 budget process begins with the preliminary budget assumptions,involves
presentations by administration,allows for public input,and provides for Trustee discussion
and debate leading to Board approval and submission according to the Ministryof Education
timetable.
2007-08 Preliminary Budget Assumptions
General
/Thames Valley District School Board will continue to prioritize the needs of our students
consistent with A Caring,Learning Community.
/The balanced budget for 2007-08 will be compliant with the Ministry of Education
enveloping provisions.
/Implementation of the Ministry of Education primary class size initiative.
/ With enrolment projections Indicating declining enrolment for 2007-08 and beyond,the
impact on revenues and expenditures must be considered when making budget
decisions,not just for this year but also future years.
Revenues
/The budget will be developed using the enrolment projections for 2007-08.
/Provincial funding will be based on the 2007-08 Grants for Student Needs.
2007 March 27...23
13.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd
d.REPORT OF THE BUDGET ADVISORY COMMITTEE -cont'd
3.2007-08 PRELIMINARY BUDGET ASSUMPTIONS AND PROCESS -cont'd
Expenditures
/Salaries will be based on current contractual agreements and be consistent with the
Ministry of Education provincial framework.
/Benefits will be based on projected costs and contractual agreements.
/ Utilities will be based on projected rates.
/Transportation will be based on existing contracts and services.
/Expenditure categories requiring adjustments due to cost pressures outside of the
Board's authority will be reviewed.
Process
The Budget AdvisoryCommittee assists in the development of the 2007-08 preliminary
budget by providing information,advice and liaison between Trustees and staff are charged
with the development of the annual budget.Recommendations will be prepared for
consideration bythe Board. Public input will be sought and the Board will approve the 2007-
08 budget for submission to the Ministryof Education by the required deadline.
B.Greene discussed the possibilityof receiving funds from the Ministry on completion ofan
effectiveness and efficientreviewofthetransportation consortiumcurrentlybeingdeveloped.
The following motion was moved and carried:
That the Transportation Consortium Committee members be encouraged to expedite the
completion of the development of the consortium In order for the Ministry effectiveness
and efficiencyreviewto take place and potentially providefor additionalfunding.
4.2007-08 BUDGET ISSUES
The listof issues to be presented at each Board meeting was reviewed and scheduled as
follows:
Mar 27 -Special Education
April 10 - Ministryof Education - Board Budget Workbook
- Facility Costs -Surplus Capacity
April 24 -Primary Class Size Reduction
May08 -New and Continuing Initiatives and 2007-08 Proposals from
administration.
-First Nations Initiative
May 22 -Energy,Utility Costs
-Transportation
B.Greene sought other suggestions from the committee and T.Roberts will seek requests
from the Board.
The following motion was approved and carried:
That the Special Education Advisory Committee (SEAC)be Invited to attend the March
27 Budget Issue presentation at the Board Meeting.
2007 March 27...24
13.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd
d.REPORT OF THE BUDGET ADVISORY COMMITTEE -cont'd
5.REVIEW OF THE 2007-08 BUDGET TIMETABLE
The Budget Timetable was discussed.The following motion was moved and carried:
That the 2007-08 Budget Timetable be approved as follows:
May 15 -Special Board Budget meeting if required
May 29 -Special Board -Presentation of the 2007-08 Preliminary Budget
June 05 -Information Committee of the Whole -Budget Issues if required
June 12 -Regular Board -Budget
June 19 -Special Board -Budget discussion and debate
June 26 -Regular Board - Final budget approval
6.FUNDING ANNOUNCEMENT:GSN'S 2007 MARCH 19
B.Greene confirmed that the Trustees were provided an update of the funding
announcement at the Board meeting 2007 March 20.J. Roth advised that E.F.I.S.will likely
be available prior to March 30.
7.ENROLMENT PROJECTIONS
The enrolment projections were presented to Board 2007 March 20 as the first Budget Issue.
Additional enrolment projections will be provided to the Board 2007 March 27 as part of2007-
08 preliminary teacher staffing.
8.COMMUNICATIONS PLAN
B.Greene advised that C.Dennett will be bringing up the website next week.It was agreed
the site would be shown to Board before it goes live but that the calendar,assumptions,etc.
could be made available immediately.
9.BUDGET INFORMATION -OTHER SCHOOL BOARDS
J.Roth distributed a news release obtained from the Ottawa-Carleton District School Board.
Superintendent Greene described the recent joint announcement between the Minister and
the Ottawa-Carleton Board announcing the establishment of a "special assistance team"that
will be working towards a balanced budget plan.
10.FUTURE MEETING DATES
Committee meeting dates were scheduled as follows:
April 20-11:00 A.M.
May 07-1:30 P.M.
May25-11:00 A.M.
June 11-1:30 P.M.
June 25-1:30 P.M.
11.OTHER BUSINESS
None
12.ADJOURNMENT
A motion to adjourn was moved by Trustee Tisdale and carried at 9:58 a.m.
2007 March 27...25
13.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd
d.REPORT OF THE BUDGET ADVISORY COMMITTEE -cont'd
RECOMMENDATIONS;
1.That the following 2007-08 Preliminary Budget Assumptions and Process be approved.
2007-08 Preliminary Budget Assumptions
General
/Thames Valley District School Board will continue to prioritize the needs of our students
consistent with A Caring,Learning Community.
/The balanced budget for 2007-08 will be compliant with the Ministry of Education
enveloping provisions.
/Implementation of the Ministry of Education primary class size initiative.
/ With enrolment projections indicatingdeclining enrolment for 2007-08 and beyond, the
impact on revenues and expenditures must be considered when making budget
decisions,not just for this year but also future years.
Revenues
/The budget will be developed using the enrolment projections for 2007-08.
/Provincial funding will be based on the 2007-08 Grants for Student Needs.
Expenditures
/Salaries will be based on current contractual agreements and be consistent with the
Ministry of Education provincial framework.
/ Benefits will be based on projected costs and contractual agreements.
✓Utilities will be based on projected rates.
/Transportation will be based on existing contracts and services.
/Expenditure categories requiring adjustments due to cost pressures outside of the
Board's authority will be reviewed.
Process
The Budget Advisory Committee assists in the development of the 2007-08 preliminary
budget by providinginformation, advice and liaison between Tmstees and staff are charged
with the development of the annual budget.Recommendations will be prepared for
consideration bythe Board. Publicinput will be sought and the Board will approve the 2007-
08 budget for submission to the Ministryof Education by the required deadline.
2.That the Transportation Consortium Committee members be encouraged to expedite the
completion of the development ofthe consortium in order for the Ministry effectiveness and
efficiency review to take place and potentially provide for additional funding;
3.That the Special Education Advisory Committee (SEAC)be invited to attend the March 27
Budget Issue presentation at the 2007 March 27 Board Meeting.
4.That the 2007-08 Budget Timetable be approved as follows:
May 15 -Special Board Budget meeting if required
May 29 -Special Board -Presentation of the 2007-08 Preliminary Budget
June 05 -Information Committee of the Whole -Budget Issues if required
June 12 -Regular Board -Budget
June 19 -Special Board -Budget discussion and debate
June 26 -Regular Board -Final budget approval
T.ROBERTS.
Chairperson
2007 March 27...26
13.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd
d.REPORT OF THE BUDGET ADVISORY COMMITTEE -cont'd
Recommendations -cont'd
Recommendation 1 was adopted on motion of F.Exiey,seconded by R.Tisdaie.
Recommendation 2 was adopted on motion of F. Exiey,seconded by R. Tisdaie.
Recommendation 3 was withdrawn.
Recommendation 4 was adopted on motion of F. Exiey,seconded by R. Tisdaie.
Exec. Supt.Greene commented that C. Dennett,iVIanager,Pubiic Affairs and Community
Relations,has developed a series of communication strategies to provide budget information
to the pubiic as weli as a process to seel<and receive publicInputelectronically.Trustee Hart
advised that an opportunityshould be available for publicinput presentations regarding the
2007-08 Budget. The following motion was moved by G. Hart,seconded by P.Jaffe and
carried:
That the Budget Advisory Committee seek opportunitiesforpublicinputon the 2007-08
Budget.
e.REPORT OF THE CHAIRS'COMMITTEE 2007 March 21
9:40 a.m.-12:01 p.m.
MEMBERS ADMINISTRATION AND OTHERS
P. Battler (Chair)B. Bryce
G.Hart J.Stewart S.Christie
Regrets:J.Bennett
1.APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Items 7 a.-f.were added tothe agenda. Itwas approved, as amended, by motion.
2.CONFLICTS OF INTEREST -none declared
3.REVIEW OF 2007 MARCH 27 BOARD AGENDA
The in-camera and public agendas forthe 2007 March27 Board meeting were discussed and
updated.
4.CORRESPONDENCE
Aletterfromthe Grand ErieDSBregardingestablishing one school board system was added
to the 2007 March27 Board agenda under "Communications". Itwas suggested that the
issue ofopen access forallstudents be investigatedand that the Ministry of Education be
requested to document the number of students transferring between the publicand catholic
systems.
5.TRUSTEES FOR SUPERINTENDENT OF EDUCATION INTERVIEWS
Trustees from the list of those who have indicated an interest to sit on the interview
committee for the Superintendent of Education position were considered.Trustees J.
Stewart and J.Bennett were appointed to the committee.
2007 March 27...27
13.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd
e.REPORT OF THE CHAIRS'COMMITTEE -cont'd
6.MEMBERSHIP STRUCTURE OF REGIONAL CPACS
Chair Sattler spoke to a request to add Aboriginal and French Immersion representation to
the regional Capital Planning Advisory Committees noting the need to amend the CPAC
mandate should the appointments be approved.Aftera full discussion,the follovi/ing motion
was moved and carried.
That Aboriginal and French Second Language representatives serve as a non-voting
resource to the London Capital Planning Advisory sub-committee.
The draft amended CPAC membership list Is attached pending Board approval.
Chair Sattler suggested that community representation on the Capital Planning Advisory
Committee (CPAC)be increased.It was further suggested that the number of school council
representatives on the regional committees also be increased.The following motion was
moved and carried:
That the membership of each regional Capital Planning Advisory Committee be amended
as follows:
Elgin,Oxford,Middlesex - 2 school council representatives;
London - 4 community and 3 school council representatives.
7.OTHER BUSINESS
a.Pupil Accommodation Guidelines
Chair Sattler raised a concern that the Board has not formally endorsed the Pupil
Accommodation and Facility Organization independent procedure.
b.Best Buddies
Followinga presentation to the Board on February 13,a request has been received that
the Board endorse the Best Buddies program and advise the system accordingly.
c.OPSBA Motions
Chair Sattler will contact Trustee Jaffe to rewrite the approved motion of December 19,
2006,regarding hockey violence to go fonward to the OPSBA general meeting.
d.Director's Review
Director Bryce reported on discussions with OPSBA regarding conducting a session on
developing a role description for the Board and Director of Education and a review
process for both. He advised that the cost ofa fullreview package is $25,000.Sessions
will involve 3-5 days at $2000/day.It was clarified that the sessions will involve the
trustees and Director Bryce.
After discussion,the following motion was moved and carried:
That the Board engage OPSBA in conducting professional development sessions
on developing role descriptions for the Board and Director of Education and review
processes for both over 3-5 days at approximately $2000 per day.
e.Trustee Representatives for Vice-Principal and Principal Interviews
The Chairs'Committee noted the importance of having two trustee representatives on
the Vice-Principal and Principal interview committees and encouraged trustees to make
themselves available.
2007 March 27...28
13.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd
e.REPORT OF THE CHAIRS'COMMITTEE -cont'd
7.OTHER BUSINESS -cont'd
f.First Nations Trustee Presentation
Responding to the First Nations trustee request,a presentation on the role of the First
Nations trustee,a sweet grass ceremony and performance by the First Nations students
will be scheduled for an upcoming meeting of the Board.
8.DATE AND TIME OF NEXT MEETING
The following meetings were scheduled for 9;00 a.m.:
April 4,18;
-May 2,16;
June 6,20.
9.ADJOURNMENT
The meeting adjourned at 12:01 p.m.
RECOMMENDATIONS:
1. That Aboriginal and French Second Language representatives serve as a non-voting
resource to the London Capital Planning Advisory sub-committee.
2. That the membership of each regional Capital Planning Advisory Committee be amended
as follows:
Elgin, Oxford.Middlesex - 2 school council representatives;
London- 4 communityand 3 school council representatives.f
3. That the Board engagie OPSBA in conducting professional development sessions on
developing roledescriptions forthe Boardand Directorof Education and review processes
for both over 3-5 days at approximately$2 000 per day.
P.SATTLER,
Chairperson
The following motion was moved byT. Grant,seconded byJ. Stewart:
That the Board endorse the Best Buddies program and allow implementation and that
information be distributed to schools as requested.
The motionwas withdrawn and after further discussion the following motionwas moved byT.
Grant,seconded by J.Stewart and carried:
That the Chair of the Board send a letter ofadvice and support to the Best Buddies program
encouraging distribution of information to schools.
Recommendation 1 was adopted on motion of J.Stewart,seconded by T. Grant.
Recommendation 2 was adopted on motion of J.Stewart,seconded by R. Tisdale.
Recommendation 3 was adopted on motion of J.Stewart,seconded by G. Hart.
2007 March 27.^,29
13.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd
e.REPORT OF THE CHAIRS'COMMITTEE -cont'd
The following motion was moved by P.Jaffa,seconded by J.Stewart and carried:
Whereas the Ontario Public School Boards'Association plays a leadership role in Ontario in
regard to safe schools policies,practices,programs and integrated curriculum;
Whereas physical violence between student is not condoned bypublic education policies at any
time or place;
Whereas current Ontario Hockey League rules still allow junior players to fight and receive
penalties for this behavior in contrast to Olympic, university and high school hockey where
players who fight are suspended and/or banned;
Whereas the Commissioner of the OHL wants fighting to be eliminated but does not see this
ban as a priority;
Whereas allowing adolescents to fight with their opponents in Junior Hockey and even
replaying the fights on the scoreboard clearly condones violence as entertainment and offers
mixed messages to young fans about violence and sportsmanship;
Be It Resolved that OPSBA request that the OHL Commissioner take a leadership role InMajor
Junior A Hockey by banning fighting and that OPSBA members request support from local
Junior A Hockey organizations in these efforts.
f.REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE,IN CAMERA 2007 March 27
MEMBERS PRESENT
J.Stewart{Chair)
S.Doub
F.Exley
T.Grant
G.Hart (5:30)
M.Hendrick
P.Jaffe
S.Peters
S.Polhill
P.Sattler
R.Tisdale
Regrets:J.Bennett,T.Roberts
ADMINISTRATION AND OTHERS
B.Bryce
B.Greene
C.Murphy
M.Sereda
J.Thorpe
K.Dalton
J.Empringham
S.Hughes
L.Hutchinson
W.Tucker
B.Wagner
K.Wilkinson
S.Christie
J.Antoniak
G.Owens
The Comniittee 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.
2007 March 27...30
13.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd
f.REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE,IN CAMERA -cont'd
RECOMMENDATIONS:
1.That the motion approved at the In-camera session of March 27,2007,related to two
property matters be approved.
2.That Karen Dalton be appointed to the position of Executive Superintendent of Operations
Services with the Thames Valley District School Board effective 2007 August 01.
3.That,in accordance with the Independent Procedure -Promotional Practices:Selection
Procedures and Appointment of Principals and Vice-Principals, the following people be
appointed to the poolof candidates ready forappointment to the positionof Vice-Principal,
Elementary Schools:
Candidates Present Assignment
Agar,ingrid Masonville Public School
Askey,Scott Vice-Principal (Acting),Locke's Public School
Gough,Kelli Vice-Principal (Acting),Annandale School
James.Laurie Vice-Principal (Acting),Hickson Central Public School
LeConte,David Learning Co-ordinator,Special Education .
Luce. Ann Marie Vice-Principal (Acting), Elgin Court Public School
Miletic.Lorraine Vice-Principal (Acting),Harris Heights Public School
Reid,Barbara Vice-Principal (Acting),East Oxford/Sweaburg Public
School
Roes,Mary Helen Vice-Principal (Acting),Ryerson Public School
Wall,Charlotte Vice-Principal (Acting),Straffordville Public School
Westaway,Patricia C.C.Carrothers Public School
Kneale,Cynthia Masonville Public School
JAMES STEWART,
Chairperson
Recommendations 1,2, and 3 were adopted on motion ofJ. Stewart,seconded by R.TIsdale.
15.COMMUNICATIONS
a.CHAIR'S SUMMARY UPDATE
ChairSattler reported that during2007 March she chaired the LondonCapital Planning Advisory
Committee meeting.She attended,with the Director, Exec.Supt.Greene and Business Services
staff,the Ministry of Education's Grants for Student Needs webcast announcement.She noted
that this was a very cost effective and time saving way of delivering the Information to school
boards.She also attended meetings ofthe Budget Advisory Committee and the Thames Valley
Education Foundation.She participated in the Executive Superintendent Interviewing process
.and attended the Student Success tour at Montcalm S.S.(London), the Ministry of Education's
First Nations Transitions Symposium,and the OPSBA Labour Relations Symposium.
b. ONTARIO PUBLIC SCHOOL BOARDS'ASSOCIATION (OPSBA)-UPDATE
Trustee Hart described OPSBA discussions regarding the impact of the open access policyof
allowing students the flexibility tomovefromoneschool system to another.OPSBAIsrequesting
that the Ministry provide clarification regarding this issue.Trustee Hart asked that the Board send
a motion to OPSBA regarding students transferring from one system to another related to the
potential impact on school boards.
2007 March 27...31
15.COMMUNrCATIONS -cont'd
b. ONTARIO PUBLIC SCHOOL BOARDS'ASSOCIATION (OPSBA)-UPDATE -cont'd
The following motion was moved by G. Hart,seconded byJ.Stewart and carried:
Whereas the Ministry of Education and all School Boards are activelylookingforefficiencies
inschool board operations in order to enhance learning opportunities for all students;
Whereas surplus capacity is identified as one source of inefficiencyfor some school boards;
Whereas new school spaces continue to be constructed despite declining enrolment across
the province;
Be It Resolved that the Thames Valley District School Board recommend to OPSBA that the
Ministry of Education study the affect ofthe present open access policyon student movement
to secondary schools among the four (4)provincialschool systems by determining:
-historical movement of students and reasons for movement;
-projected effect on future enrolments;
-financial impact on operating budgets;
-capital cost of creating new pupil spaces in growth school systems.
c.GRAND ERI^DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD
Aletter was received fromJim Wibberley, DirectorofEducation and Secretary,Grand ErieDistrict
School Board, advising of its resolution approved on 2007 February 26 to petition the
Government of Ontario for one publicly-funded school board system inthe province.
16.NOTICE OF MOTION -none
17.MOTION -NOTICE OF WHICH HAS BEEN GIVEN -none
18.ADDITIONAL ITEMS -none
19.QUESTIONS/COMMENTS BY MEMBERS ~none
20.ADJOURNMENT
The meeting adjourned at 10:20 p.m.on motion of S.Peters,seconded by T.Grant.
CONFIRMED:
Chairperson
2007 March 27...32
SUMMARY OF APPROVED RECOMMENDATIONS OF 2007 MARCH 27
That the Board endorse the PupilAccommodation and Facility Organization independent
procedure includingthe establishment of Area Review Committees and include itinthe minutes of
the 2007 March 20 Regular Board meeting.
That the Board enter into a short-term credit facilitywith the National Bank of Canada for up to
$40 345 171,the remaining amount of the Good Places to Learn -Stage 1 Allocation and all of the
Stage 2 Allocation.
That the Board approve the preliminary 2007-08 elementary and secondary staffing report for the
purpose of beginning the in-school staffing process and inclusion in the 2007-08 preliminary
budget.
That the following 2007-08 Preliminary Budget Assumptions and Process be approved.
2007-08 Preliminary Budget Assumptions
General
/Thames Valley District School Board will continue to prioritize the needs of our students
consistent with A Caring,Learning Community.
/The balanced budget for 2007-08 will be compliant with the Ministry of Education enveloping
provisions.
/Implementation of the Ministry of Education primary class size initiative.
/ With enrolment projections indicating declining enrolment for 2007-08 and beyond,the impact
on revenues and expenditures must be considered when making budget decisions,not just for
this year but also future years.
Revenues
/The budget will be developed using the enrolment projections for 2007-08.
/Provincial funding will be based on the 2007-08 Grants for Student Needs.
Expenditures
/Salaries will be based on current contractual agreements and be consistent with the Ministry
of Education provincial framework.
/Benefits will be based on projected costs and contractual agreements.
/ Utilities will be based on projected rates.
/Transportation will be based on existing contracts and services.
/Expenditure categories requiring adjustments due to cost pressures outside of the Board's
authority will be reviewed.
Process
The Budget Advisory Committee assists in the development of the 2007-08 preliminary budget by
providing Information,advice and liaison between Trustees and staff are charged with the
development of the annual budget.Recommendations will be prepared for consideration by the
Board.Public input will be sought and the Board will approve the 2007-08 budget for submission
to the Ministry of Education by the required deadline.
That the Transportation Consortium Committee members be encouraged to expedite the
completion of the development of the consortium In order for the Ministry effectiveness and
efficiency review to take place and potentially provide for additional funding.
2007 March 27...33
SUMMARY OF APPROVED RECOMMENDATIONS OF 2007 MARCH 27 -cont'd
That the 2007-08 Budget Timetable be approved as follows;
May 15 -Special Board Budget meeting if required
May 29 -Special Board -Presentation of the 2007-08 Preliminary Budget
June 05 -Information Committee of the Whole -Budget Issues if required
June 12 -Regular Board -Budget
June 19 -Special Board -Budget discussion and debate
June 26 -Regular Board - Final budget approval
That the Budget Advisory Committee seek opportunities for public input on the 2007-08 Budget.
That the Chair of the Board send a letter of advice and support to the Best Buddies program
encouraging distribution of information to schools.
That Aboriginal and French Second Language representatives serve as a non-voting resource to
the London Capital Planning Advisory sub-committee.
That the membership of each regional Capital Planning Advisory Committee be amended as
follows:
Elgin,Oxford,Middlesex - 2 school council representatives;
London - 4 community and 3 school council representatives.
That the Board engage OPSBA in conducting professional development sessions on developing
role descriptions for the Board and Director of Education and review processes for both over 3-5
days at approximately $2 000 per day.
Whereas the Ontario Public School Boards'Association plays a leadership role in Ontario in
regard to safe schools policies,practices,programs and integrated curriculum:
Whereas physical violence between student is not condoned by public education policies at any
time or place;
Whereas current Ontario Hockey League rules still allow junior players to fight and receive
penalties for this behavior in contrast to Olympic,university and high school hockey where players
who fight are suspended and/or banned;
Whereas the Commissioner of the OHL wants fighting to be eliminated but does not see this ban
as a priority;
Whereas allowing adolescents to fight with their opponents in Junior Hockey and even replaying
the fights on the scoreboard cleady condones violence as entertainment and offers mixed
messages to young fans about violence and sportsmanship;
Be It Resolved that OPSBA request that the OHL Commissioner take a leadership role in Major
Junior A Hockey by banning fighting and that OPSBA members request support from local Junior
A Hockey organizations in these efforts.
That the motion approved at the in-camera session of March 27,2007,related to two property
matters be approved.
That Karen Dalton be appointed to the position of Executive Superintendent of Operations
Services with the Thames Valley District School Board effective 2007 August 01.
2007 March 27...34
SUMMARY OF APPROVED RECOMMENDATIONS OF 2007 MARCH 27 -cont'd
That, in accordance with the Independent Procedure -Promotional Practices:Selection
Proceduresand Appointment of Principals and Vice-Principals,the following peoplebe appointed
tothe pool of candidates ready for appointment tothe position of Vice-Principal,Elementary
Schools:
Candidates Present Assignment
Agar,Ingrid Masonville Public School
Askey,Scott Vice-Principal (Acting),Locke's Public School
Gough,Kelli Vice-Principal (Acting),AnnandaleSchool
James,Laurie Vice-Principal (Acting),HicksonCentral PublicSchool
LeConte,David Learning Co-ordinator,Special Education
Luce,Ann Marie -Vice-Principal (Acting),Elgin CourtPublicSchool
Miletic,Lorraine Vice-Principal (Acting),Harris Heights Public School
Reid,Barbara Vice-Principal (Acting),East Oxford/Sweaburg Public
School
Roes,Mary Helen Vice-Principal (Acting),Ryerson Public School
Wall,Charlotte Vice-Principal (Acting),Straffordville Public School
Westaway,Patricia C.C.Carrothers Public School
Kneale,Cynthia Masonville Public School
Whereasthe Ministry of Education and all School Boards are actively looking for efficiencies in
school board operations In orderto enhance learning opportunities forallstudents;
Whereas surplus capacity is identified as one source of inefficiency for some school boards;
Whereas new school spaces continue tobe constructed despite declining enrolment across the
province;
Be ItResolved that the Thames Valley District School Boardrecommend to OPSBA that the
Ministry of Education study the affect ofthe present open access policy on student movement to
secondary schools among the four (4)provincial school systems by determining:
-historical movementofstudents and reasons formovement;
-projected effect on future enrolments;
- financialimpact on operating budgets;
-capital cost of creating new pupil spaces in growth schoolsystems.