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1/22/2008 - Regular Board MeetingTHAMES VALLEY DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD REGULAR BOARD MEETING,PUBLIC SESSION 2008 JANUARY 22,7:00 P.M. BOARD ROOM,EDUCATION CENTRE AGENDA V-verbal M -material 1.CALL TO ORDER V 2. O CANADA V 3.SPECIAL MUSICALPRESENTATION -River Heights P.S.Choir (Dorchester)V 4.APPROVAL OF AGENDA M 5.OFFICIAL RECORD 6.RECOGNITIONS 7.CONFLICTS OF INTEREST V 8.CHAIR'S ANNOUNCEMENTS V 9.DIRECTOR'S ANNOUNCEMENTS V 10.MINUTES OF THE 2008 JANUARY 08 REGULAR BOARD MEETING a.Confirmation of Minutes M b.Business Arising from the Minutes 11.STUDENT TRUSTEES'UPDATE V 12.REPORTS FROM THE ADMINISTRATION a.Request for Psychologist M b.Departmental Updates M 13.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES a.Final Report of the Trustee Technology Needs Ad Hoc Committee M b.Special Education Advisory Committee,2008 January 08 M c.Audit Committee,2008 January 15 M d.Budget Advisory Committee,2008 January 15 M e.Chairs'Committee,2008 January 16 M f.Committee of the Whole,In Camera,2008 January 22 V 14.COMMUNICATIONS a.Chair's Summary Update V b.Ontario Public School Boards'Association -Update V c.County of Oxford M 15.NOTICE OF MOTION 16.MOTION -NOTICE OF WHICH HAS BEEN GIVEN -none 17.ADDITIONAL ITEMS 18.QUESTIONS/COMMENTS BY MEMBERS 19.ADJOURNMENT THAMES VALLEY DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD REGULAR MEETING,PUBLIC SESSION 2008 JANUARY 22 The Board met in regular.session on 2008 January 22 in the Board Room at the Education Centre,meeting inpublic session at 7:00 p.m. to 9:20 p.m. The following were in attendance: TRUSTEES S.Doub F.Exiey T.Grant G.Hart M.Hendrick ADMINISTRATION AND OTHERS B.Tucker K.Daiton L.Elliott B.Greene M.Sereda C.Bourbonnais-MacDonald Regrets:J.Bennett P.Jaffe K.Patterson S.Peters S.Polhill T.Roberts L.Griffith-Jones S.Hughes M.Moynihan V.Nielsen P.Tufts B.Wagner K.Wilkinson J.Rowe P.Sattler (Chair) J.Stewart R.Tisdale K.Bushell S.Christie C.Dennett S.Macey K.Meeson W.Scott S.Young 1.CALL TO ORDER. Board Chairperson Sattler called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. 2./3.O CANADA AND MUSICAL PRESENTATION The appreciation of the Board was extended to the River Heights P.S.Primary Choir from Dorchester and Conductor Tom Fright for leading in the singing of O'Canada and performing two musical selections. 4.APPROVAL OF AGENDA The agenda was approved on motion of F.ExIey,seconded by T.Roberts. 5.OFFICIAL RECORD -none 6.RECOGNITIONS -none 7.CONFLICTS OF INTEREST -No conflicts of Interest were declared. 8.CHAIR'S ANNOUNCEMENTS -none 9.DIRECTOR'S ANNOUNCEMENTS Director Tucker advised that Jim Empringham,Superintendent of Education,offered his regrets for what would have been his final Board meeting before beginning retirement effective 2008 January 31.Director Tucker,on behalf of the Board,thanked Supt.Empringham for postponing his retirement in order to assist the Board through a transition period.He recognized Mr.Empringham's accomplishments as an outstanding educator and applauded himfor an exemplary career In support of improving student learning. 2008 January 22...2 10.MINUTES OF THE 2008 JANUARY 08 REGULAR BOARD MEETING a.CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES The minutes of the Regular Board Meeting,2008 January 08,were adopted on motion of R. Tlsdale,seconded by T.Grant.Chair Sattler referred to Thames Valley District School Council Annual Report (Item 10.a.),noting that the new process for responding to the Annual Report was not approved by a Board motion as Indicated and that this correction has been reflected in the minutes of 2008 January 08. NOTE: It was later confirmed that the recommendation from the Thames Valley DistrictSchool Council was omitted from the list of recommendations.The report as amended will be taken to the February 12,2008,Board meeting for approval. b.BUSINESS ARISING FROM MINUTES -none 11.STUDENT TRUSTEES'UPDATE Student Trustee Patterson advised that the next Student Advisory Council meeting is scheduled for 2008 January 31 from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m.at the Education Centre.The agenda is to be emailed to Trustees shortly.All Trustees were invited to attend the meeting. 12.REPORTS FROM THE ADMINISTRATION a.REQUEST FOR PSYCHOLOGIST L.Elliott,Exec.Supt.,Program Services,presented a report requesting the hiring of a psychologist to support both the Alternative to Suspension Team and Psychological Services. She thanked Superintendents Hughes and Wagner for their Inputinto preparation of the report. Supt.Hughes reviewed the position responsibilities as follows: Consults with school administrators and staff regarding the learning,social,emotional and behavlourial problems exhibited by students that inhibitor limit academic functioning. Assesses students using a wide range of methods,which may include:review of OSR's classroom observation;interviews with students and / or parents/guardians;administration of standardized psychometric tests.Diagnosis and formulates recommendations for treatment or other Interventions to remedial problems.Maybe required to refer to outside agencies,including treatment facilities,medical professionals or others. Provides an Immediate emergency crisis Intervention service. Maybe required to assist Individual students or schools'to which Incumbent Is assigned in crisis-management/Intervention as required. Prepares and maintains appropriate documentation according to professional standards Including referrals,case notes,consent Information,assessment,intervention/prevention strategies and correspondence with parents/guardians and community agencies. Conducts threat/risk assessments in consultation with school/system teams. The salary and benefits forthis position are tobe paidfromthe Ministry targeted funding allocated to the Alternativeto Suspension/Expulsion program. Annual salary and benefits are to be $91 353.18.The funding for this project Is expected to continue on an annual basis and if, approved,to commence on 2008 February 01.K.Meeson,Manager,Financial Services, commented that the position was costed at the midrange for a psychologist salary and benefits. C 2008 January 22...Z 12.REPORTS FROM THE ADMINISTRATION-cont'd a.REQUEST FOR PSYCHOLOGIST -cont'd RECOMMENDATION: That the Board approve Program Services,Psychological Services tohire a Psychologist towork within the Suspension/Expulsion Alternative Education program. The recommendation was adopted on motion of T.Grant,seconded by R.Tisdale. b.DEPARTMENTAL UPDATES Business Services Facility Services and Projects and Maintenance updates included:Capital Projects at Mitchell Hepburn P.S.Strathroy District Collegiate Institute,Medway High School.Manager Bushell commented on the Best Start Daycare projects at White Oaks P.S.,and MacDonald P.S.,as well as completion of conceptual design for renovation and addition to Northbrae P.S.He noted that the Best Start Daycare project is a one-time capital infusion from the province matched by the City for construction of these facilities; Manager Bushell explained the three categories for submitting Prohibitive to Repair Business cases to the Ministry.The following Prohibitive to Repair Business Case Status was presented: Elmdale P.S Wellington Street P.S. Myrtle Street P.S. Drumbo Central P.S. Princeton,Central P.S. Lucan P.S. Biddulph Central P.S. Leesboro Central P.S. Plover Mills P.S. Prince Andrew P.S. M.B.McEachren P.S. Sweaburg P.S. NPP Approved by Ministry 475 260 Funding Approved by Ministry $7 412 303 (July 20/07) $4 061 536 (Dec 07/07) no funding announcement to date no funding announcement to date no funding requested,school to be retired Trustee Jaffe suggested that the above comment related to Sweaburg P.S.be amended to reflect that the school is part of an accommodation study and that no decisions have been made.Supt.Greene will ensure that the change is made. Supt. B.Greene introduced and welcomed Sandra Macey, to her new position as Manager of Payroll Services; 2008 January 22...4 12.REPORTS FROM THE ADMINISTRATION-cont'd b.DEPARTMENTAL UPDATES -cont'd Business Services -cont'd Exec.Supts.Greene and Sereda provided remarks regarding the introduction of the Integrated Payroll Personnel System (IPPS.net).Payroll Services announced that IPPS.net was officiallyand successfully launched on 2008 January 14.IPPS.net is a Windows-based computer application that is used for human resources information and payroll-related information processing.The formerapplication,IPPS,was an Oracle-based application,and migration to the new product has been a lengthy and time-consuming undertaking since work first began about 2 >2 years ago. Manager Meeson emphasized that Payroll Services, Information Technology Services and Human Resource Services staffhaveworked diligently to ensure the success of the project. Exec. Supt.Elliott extended appreciation to Manager Young and ITS staff for completion of this significant endeavour.Exec. Supt.Sereda extended congratulations to the Payroll Services staff for their dedication in successfully moving this initiative forward. Work continues on the preparation of approximately 12,000 T4 and T4A documents with the actual production scheduled to begin the first week in 2008 February.Preparation of the T2200 -Declaration of Conditions of Employment forms for eligible staff will also commence the first week of 2008 February; Operational Review of District School Boards The Ministryof Education has an initiativeto undertake an Operational Review of District School Boards to strengthen business practices and management capacity overthe next three years.The Board has been selected to participate in a review commencing 2008 February forcompletion by2008 April.The process and reportirig is outlined in Ministry Memorandum 2007:SB 34,2007 December 19,"Operational Review of District School Boards."The review team will include Ministry of Education staff and a professional consulting firm. At the end ofthe operational review,the information gathered will be the foundation for a report with recommendations. Exec. Supt.Greene commented on the scope of the review consists of the following areas; Governance and School Board Administration; Human Resource Management and School Staffing/Allocation; Financial Management;and. School Operations and Facilities Management. Director's Services Directorof Education Bill Tucker attended the following meetings/events:Special Education Advisory Committee;Minister of Education's Visit to Jack Chambers Public School;Safe Schools Committee;Sweaburg ARC Meeting;"State ofthe Union Address",Breakfast with the Mayor;and Program Sen/ices Staff Meeting; DirectorTucker continued meeting with trustees,chiefexecutive officers,employee groups, managers,community representatives and staff as part of his Entry Plan.He hosted a New Year Coffee Break for staff at the Education Centre and Executive Superintendents introduced staff new to their departments since 2007 September; Director Tucker,Chair Sattler and representatives from Human Resource Services participated in a Special OPSBA web-cast briefing on upcoming provincial discussions; V. 2008 January 22...5 12.REPORTS FROM THE ADMINISTRATION-cont'd b.DEPARTMENTAL UPDATES -cont'd Director's Services -cont'd Staff Development updates included:NTIP - The Effective New Teacher Part III - Instructional Strategies that Engage the Brain by Dr. Marcia Tate;NTIP- The Effective New Teacher Part IV -Planning and Assessment;NTIP -Mentoring Phase II;Leadership Sessions:Administrative Mentoring Program;The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People; The 4 Roles of Leadership;The 8th Habit;Strategic Planning;Strategic Planning, Development Program; Professional Reading Program;Teacher Learning/Leadership Program; 2008 Leadership Conference and Support Services; Public Affairs and Community Relations (PACR)update included:Official w^rap-up of the 2007 UnitedWay campaign and presentation to Board; Ministerof Education visitto Jaci< Chambers P.S.;Junior &Senior Kindergarten registration advertisements;Communication Committee meeting; 2008 Education Week preparations and Thames Valley Education Foundation's 2008 Annual General Meeting; ManagerDennettintroducedSonyaBastedo,a Fanshawe Collegestudent presently sen/ing her internship placement with PACR. Human Resource Services HR staff have notified all retiree benefit plan members of the new rates effective 2008 January 01.Confirmation of enrollment will continue throughout the month; -Disability Management is working withapproximately58staff members intheirreturntowork (.,programs asa result of non-occupational and occupational illnesses and injuries; Activitiesofthe Thames ValleyDistrictSchool Council (TVDSC)during 2007 December and 2008 January included: TVDSC Chairperson B. Hopkins continued sending email communication to Thames Valiey School Councils; TVDSC meetings are held at the Thames Valley Education Centre in the Oxford Room. The 2008 January 24 meeting agenda topics include:Secondary Graduation Parties/Prom;Smart-Board Installation Costs;Book Borrowing Library and TVDSC Executive elections for unfilled positions.A completed list of TVDSC executive positions will be presented once final election have been held; ATVDSC executive meeting is scheduled to be held on 2008 January 30.The TVDSC executive will continue to re-evaluate and update the Mission, Vision and TVDSC goals. The executive will engage in dialogue pertaining to the direction and role of the executive in supporting initiativesof TVDSC; TVDSC representatives continue to attend the many Board/committee meetings including:the Capital Plan Advisory Committee;Pathways;Education Week; TV Parent Involvement Committee and;SEAC; Chair Hopkins attended school council meetings to provide assistance and support tothe councils; ->- Chair Hopkins brought greetings to the Trustees at the Inaugural TVDSB meeting on i 2007 December 11; 2008 January 22...6 12.REPORTS FROM THE ADMINISTRATION-cont'd b.DEPARTMENTAL UPDATES -cont'd Human Resource Services -cont'd Chair Hopkins and Vice-Chair Morell presented the Annual School Council Summary Report to Trustees and Administration.Assistance was provided by Laura Morrlsh, TVDSC Member-at-Large.The Final Report and support documents can be viewed on the TVDSB web-site. Since 2007 November,21.32 FTE elementary teachers have been hired due to the distribution of additional allocations and retirements/resignations; There are 1,695 active elementary occasional teachers (OTE)plus 50 on leave;395 OTE are retirees (23%)and 218 OTE are part-time contract teachers.There are 219 Long-Term Occasional Assignments Including 3 filled by retirees; Effective 2008 January 14 the Board Implemented the new Human Resource Services and Payroll Services system,IPPS.Net.IPPS.Net (the Integrated Payroll Personnel System)has responsibilities associated with the administration of conditions of employment and approximately 80% of every dollar allocated In salaries and benefits; Following the completion of the pilot phase of the project,supported by strong partnerships within Human Resource Services,Payroll Services and Information Technology Services, along with business partners Keous Solutions Inc.and the ECNO Community,TVDSB Is the first school board in the Province of Ontario to make this breakthrough.Through the development of modernized software applications and sophisticated new database structures,efficiencies within this business model will be heightened; HR staff attended the University of Western Ontario Job Fair providing information about TVDSB to new secondary teachers who will be graduating later this year.As well,class sizes are being reviewed in preparation for second semester; Applications for the secondary occasional teacher list are being reviewed as a result of recent posting.Currently there are 988 occasional teachers on the supply list of which about 25%(247)are retirees; The annual Retirement Seminar is scheduled for 2008 March 19.Personnel from the Teachers'Pension Plan (TPP) and the Ontario Municipal Employee Retirement System (OMERS) join TVDSB benefits staff to provide employees with information regarding retirement and retirement benefits.In addition,outside agencies that offer services for retirees have been Invited to attend and provide Information displays. Operations Services Superintendents are working closely with Principals to identify the strategies and Initiatives that have the greatest impact on improved student learning.To this end,during the third formal school visits of the school year Superintendents will focus on: evidence of expected practices and the variety of instructional strategies being used in the classroom; the use of data and the impact on instructional practices;and strategies being used to help students be better prepared for upcoming EQAO tests. During the Secondary School visits,progress on the Student Success initiatives of the school will be reviewed. 2008 January 22.,.7 ^12.reports FROM THE ADMINISTRATION-cont'd b.DEPARTMENTAL UPDATES -cont'd Operations Services -cont'd Exec. Supt.Dalton explained that most Accommodation Review Committees (ARC)are completing their third public input meeting.Following the fourth public input opportunity,it will be the task of the ARC to compose their report.Within the report, they may make specific recommendations for consideration.She noted that the completed report will be posted for 30 days on the individual ARC websites after which an ARC meeting will be scheduled to receive any publicinput in regards to the report. The ARC will consider this public input and edittheirreportas necessary. The ARC forwards itsreportto the Board Administration,who will prepare a response to the ARC'S report, and forwardthe report and response to the BoardofTrustees forconsideration in makingtheirdecision. Exec. Supt. Daltonwas asked to clarify the 60-day appeal process for recommendations to the Board. Supt.Dalton advised that she will confirm the information and respond to the trustees by email regarding Ministry guidelines; Preparationofthe2008-09enrolmentprojectionsforthe Ministry ofEducationas well as the draft Board budget has been completed and will be submitted to the Ministry of Education. The overall projections are consistent with previously submitted figures and have been updated to reflect the impact of the current school year enrolment, both elementary and secondary; Based on the current data,itis projected that the elementary FTE enrolment will decline by a further 1,129.50 for 2008 October 31,while the secondary decline is anticipated to be in the order of 281.25 FTE,representing an overall decline of 1,410.75 FTE students; Work is also continuing with regard to the ARC'S currently under way, with enrolment and GIS data presentations at individual ARC meetings and providing additional support information as requested.Support data is now being provided to the CPAC along with maps of the potential ARC areas under consideration. Safe Schools Initiatives included; The Education Amendment Act (Progressive Discipline and School Safetv).2007 On 2007 June 04 the Ontario Government passed Bill 212,An Act to Amend the Education Act in respect of behaviour,discipline and safety.This legislation sets out significant changes to the safe schools provisions of the Education Act.All of the provisions of Bill 212 will come into forceon 2008 February 01.Until February 1^,the current safe schools provisions of the Education Act will apply; Supt.Wagner highlighted these significant changes to the safe schools provisions ofthe Education Act. A copy of new legislation was distributed and the changes outlined by Supt.Wagner.Supt.Hughes referred to present and proposed alternative classroom sites that address suspension/expulsion situations.Supt.Hughes also referred to the staffing for Restorative Justice programs.Supt.Wagner and Hughes are currently looking at the Restorative Justice practices provincially for input into the Board's practices. Supt.Wagner and the Safe Schools Committee have also been working on the area of communication strategies to alert communities about Bill 212.An in service session is planned on 2008 February 21 for Principals. Principals will in turn communicate with School Councils regarding the changes and make revision to their school's code of conduct as well as ensuring that school bullying intervention plans are in place.The Thames ValleyDistrictSchool Council (TVDSC)and parent outreach organizations will be providing resources.Supt.Wagner noted that bullying prevention is a focus inthe Board's partnership with LondonPolice Services as well as the Children'Safety Village for early years'prevention. 2008 January 22..,8 12.REPORTS FROM THE ADMINISTRATION-cont'd b.DEPARTMENTAL UPDATES -cont'd Operations Services - cont'd Stand By Me Trained volunteer mentors are active in many of our elementary schools working one-on- one with students.Elementary students are identified who are at risk academically and/or socially as a result of witnessing,experiencing or perpetrating violence. An additional 80 Fanshawe College students were trained in 2008 January and will begin mentoring elementary students in the near future. To date,there have been 130 new volunteers trained this school year as mentors in the Stand By Me program; The Fourth R -Grade 8 Health The Fourth R curriculum lessons focus on healthy relationships.Lessons for the remaining twounits in Grade 9 Health (Growthand Development and HealthyEating)are being written inaddition to the twounits that already exist which include Substance Use and Abuse and Personal Safety and Injury Prevention.Grade 8 Health teachers will be trained this spring based on the new documents; OESC Bullvina and Violence Prevention Special Circumstances Grant A grant was received from The Ontario Education Services Corporation (OESC)in the amount of $119 000.00.In collaboration with the Fourth R,Safe Schools submitted a proposal to enhance bullying prevention in Alt. Ed.Schools (two Aboriginal Alt. Ed and two mainstream Alt.Ed.schools).The Fourth RAlt. Ed.Program has been adapted and enhanced to meet the needs of youth in these settings.The revised Fourth R Alt. Ed. Program will be taught at two of the Alt.Ed.settings beginning in 2008 February as well as the grant supports:resources for students',teachers/staff and parents;training for students,teachers/staff;parent and community engagement sessions;and professional services; Research and Assessment undertook/completed the following projects during late 2007 December and eariy 2008 January: Prepared and presented workshops on Action Research for school-based project teams and Program staff; Prepared and sent OLSAT - Individual Profiles to schools; Prepared OLSAT System Summary Report for fall 2007 Grade 4; Analysis and reports for DRP Reading Assessment and Level Reading Assessments; Supported work on the School Effectiveness Framework implementation; Supported development of School Improvement Plans; Continued development of evaluation plans for new Lighthouse Projects; Prepared historical Grade 9 DRP testing files for inclusion in data warehouse; Evaluated external research requests;• Worked with Privacy and Information Management Taskforce; Work with Scapose data system; Attended MISA London Region workshop; Started the design and development phase of the portal enrolment projection submission capability; Monitor budget tracking for Projects to Support Students At Risk; Native Self-Identification Committee work; Prepared report on System Suspension Data; Investigated data issues related to IMPS and OASIS educator data submission; Participated in the development of OASIS - Making It Happen Board-wide training sessions; Supported school-based projects;consultation on outcome measures,data; Supported schools with analysis and reports on school-based surveys; 2Q08 January 22...9 12 REPORTS FROM THE ADMINISTRATION-cont'd b.DEPARTMENTAL UPDATES - cont'd Operations Services -cont'd Safe Schools Initiatives -cont'd OESC Bullying and Violence Prevention Special Circumstances Grant -contd -Supplied secondary school high cost credit information for school budget allocation; -Developed an effective method to identify and confirm fee paying students; Development of plans for implementation of secondary school Student Safe School survey; Completed analysisforJunior DRA;, Prepared and distributed Junior DRA reports to Elementary Principals and Superintendents; Completed maps for Capital Planning Committee; Updated on-line profiles with Junior DRA data; Presentations of online student profiles; Continued profile design enhancements. The school year calendar committee met twice before Christmas to begin preparation of the calendar for2008-09.Draft calendars forelementaryand secondary schoolsas well as for year-round Sir George Ross Secondary School are posted on the District website and have been sent to constituent groups forcomment. The draftcalendars will be brought to Board for approval at the first meeting in February.Calendars must be submitted to the Ministry by March 01. Program Services -Special Education -Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) (1 In December,TVDSB received Ministry funding of $150 000to provide Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA)training for students with Autism Spectrum Disorders,in accordance with PPM 140. Todate Program servicesstaffhave provided orplanned upcoming sessions for Principals,Learning Support teachers,Educational Assistants,teachers of Developmental and ADD classes,and teachers inregular classes who support students withAutism.Some of this funding is also available for release time to permit staff to plan based on their individual student needs. The Deaf and Hard of Hearing Review is now complete and will move toward an Implementation Committee to consider recommendations; Our new Mental Health and Wellers Committee has met three times and is preparing a proposal for an auditofourstudent mental health services; Training forschool administrators on Differentiated Instruction strategies will occuron 2008 February 6; - A presentation for Special Education staffand school administrators by Diane Beloit on working with students with behavioural needs will take placeonJanuary25; Congratulations to Bev Noble,Learning Supervisor-Special Education,who retired on 2007 November 30. Exec. Supt.Elliott advised that Jeanette Johnston assumed this position effective 2008 January 7 and brings a wide variety of experiences in Special Education to her new role. Inaddition, Ms.Johnston was the Principal at JP Roberts and Ryerson P.S. 2008 January 22...10 12.REPORTS FROM THE ADMINISTRATION-cont'd b.DEPARTM ENTAL UPDATES -cont'd Program Services -cont'd School and Community Service Twenty-five additional schools will be added this month to the No Child Without Medic Alert Program that offers free Medic Alert membership to students up to their birthday.As well, it ensures children with medical conditions,allergies,or special needs are protected by the Canadian Medic Alert Foundation.Medic Alert is working with school boards across the country to implement the No Child Without Program over the next five years.The program is sponsored through the financial support of businesses and corporations.Thames Valley was one of the earliest participants in Canada when the No Child Without Program first began.Medic Alert recently received targeted funds from an anonymous donor to sponsor schools in Strathroy,St.Thomas and Tillsonburg. TVDSB elementary schools presently participating are Ashley Oaks,Byron North view, Claredale,Hillcrest-London,Kendal Park,Nicholas Wilson,Rick Hansen,Sparta,White Oaks, and Woodland Heights;' Racing Against Drugs -The RCMP Racing Against Drugs program for grade five students will be held the last week of February in London.Approximately 2 000 students from the TVDSB, LDCSB and independent schools will be attending.The Department of National Defence became one of the Board's partners in 2006 and provides the venue "HMC Prevost"free of charge for the week.This worthwhile program focuses on substance use and abuse; The Reading Recovery Teacher Leaders,Jackie Sweeney and Trish Elcombe,have been invited by the Toronto District School Board to present a session to the Reading Recovery teachers and leaders at the TDSB's Professional Development Day this February.The session,"The Importance of Oral Language Structures for Literacy Processing"has been presented previously to the TVDSB Reading Recovery teachers, as well as at the Canadian Institute of Reading Recovery (CIRR)Regional Conference last year.The interactive presentation explores how children's knowledge of their oral language structures may be useful or problematic in learning to read and write on continuous text,as the child's first resource to literacy learning is the spoken language. 13.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES a.FINAL REPORT OF THE TRUSTEE TECHNOLOGY NEEDS AD HOC COMMITTEE Trustee Stewart reported on the findings of the Trustee Technology Needs Ad Hoc Committee. He advised that on 2007 November 13,the Board established the Committee to review current use of technology to enhance trustee communication.The Committee met on 2007 December 06 and 2008 January 18 to consider the equipment necessary to provide efficient,quick and effective communication between trustees and with the Senior Administration. Committee Chair Stewart sought any equipment needs of trustees.It was indicated that an updated computer was required forthe Trustee Conference Room and has been replaced.Other trustees have requested high speed connection and Board-provided blackberries.Concern was raised at covering high speed costs for trustees where itis not available and not covering the cost for trustees who currently personally pay for the service. 8.Young,Manager,Information Technology Services (ITS),reviewed the current trustee technology noting a TVDSBemail account,laptop.Board telephone and line,"fax machine and line and voice mail are provided. He described needs of more timely communication,the ability to deliver the same message easily to a number of recipients,consistent unified approach to communication and technology that is easy to use.He noted challenges of a wide variety of technology interests,service availability,support and training. r 2008 January 22...11 13.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES-cont'd a.FINAL REPORT OF THE TRUSTEE TECHNOLOGY NEEDS AD HOC COMMITTEE -cont'd Mr.Young suggested providinga wireless device that will integrate withthe Board's voice mail system to enable use of distribution listsand speech recognition. Itwas noted that the monthly cost of a blackberry is $76.00 per month and would result in a $30/month/trustee increase in costs to address the high speed,the abilityto download email easily and increase communication availability.The Board saved approximately 30% in cell phone expenditures from last year, approximately $7 000/month. He described the blackberry functionality noting it receives and sends email;however,it does not currently integrate wellwith FirstClass.The Board's system is expected tobe upgraded inMarch. It was noted that blackberries may not open WordPerfect documents and itwill be necessary that all documents forwarded from a blackberry be in PDF format.A distiller will be required. It was recognized that trustees have differing user needs with some not as comfortable with upgraded technology as others;however, the need fora standard,consistent communication tool for the supervisory officers with trustees was stressed.Communication measures must be consistent and supported byall trustees.It was noted that while trustees may carry a cell phone or blackberry,they may not always be able to check the message as itarrives but may be aware that a message has been delivered.It was suggested that trustees be surveyed regarding cell phone use. It was recommended that Board telephones be removed from trustee homes and that they be provided with blackberries as with the supervisory officers in order to address the service availability issue.The need for ongoing training and support was stressed.It was noted that a lock may be put on the blackberry and the 452-2222 function may.still be accessed by a home phone.For those trustees who may have difficulty using the small buttons on the blackberry, alternate options will be sought. The need for trustees to have a laptop if blackberries are provided was discussed.Afew trustees who do not have home computers may use their laptop;however,it was recommended that trustees who do not use their laptop for Board use,return them. As well,it was recommended that an interactive voice mail system for trustees be investigated which is not currently available In the Board's telephone system.A new version of FirstClass will allow syncing of calendars and contacts to wireless devices.The issue of VOIP vs fax lines was discussed.It was recommended that,for the current time,the fax lines be maintained. Mr.Young will investigate printer options for the Trustee Conference Room to allow trustees to printfrom that location. It was estimated that blackberry costs will be $76.00 monthly for each trustee.Mr.Young indicated that the new version of FirstClass is to be up and running with voice mail integration included by late 2008 March.Director Tucker and Manager Young will meet to ensure the timeframes and training schedules are communicated to all Trustees. RECOMMENDATIONS; 1.In addressing the technology needs of trustees,the Trustee Technology Needs Ad Hoc Committee recommends that: the trustee Board telephone home service be discontinued; each trustee be provided with a blackberry or alternate device as deemed necessary; use of the trustees'Board fax machines be maintained; ongoing trainingand support be provided to trustees regarding use ofthe communication technology; trustees return their laptops if they are not using them for Board business; an Interactive voice message system be investigated. 2008 January 22...12 13.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES-cont'd a.FINAL REPORT OF THE TRUSTEE TECHNOLOGY NEEDS AD HOC COMMITTEE -cont'd Recommendations -cont'd 2.That the Trustee Technology Needs Ad Hoc Committee be disbanded. The following motion was moved by S.Peters,seconded by T.Grant and rejected: That the recommendations related to the Trustee Technology Needs Ad Hoc Committee be deferred to the 2008 February 12 Board meeting. Recommendations 1 and 2 were adopted on motion of J.Stewart,seconded byT.Roberts.Trustee Tisdale was absent during the vote. b.REPORT OF THE SPECIAL EDUCATIONADVISORY COMMITTEE 2008 January 08 , 12:15 p.m.-12:45 p.m. Members Present J.Bennett,Trustee (Chair)G.McGahey,Chippewas of the Thames T.Grant,Trustee First Nation Board of Education M.Barbeau,VOICE for Hearing Impaired Children W.Rodic (alt)Madame Vanier (+i:i5p.m.)Children's Services S.Cassell (alt)The Learning Disabilities Assoc.Of c.Thammavongsa,(alt.)Association Ontario-London Region for Bright Children) D.Ensing,Assoc.for Bright Children 3.Fox (alt)Children's Aid Society of London & Middlesex J.Gritzan,Thames Valley Children's Centre B.Hoffman,Autism Ontario London Regrets:E. Karry,Children's Aid Society of London and Middlesex,D. Lee,Learning Disabilities Association - London Region (LDA-LR),A. Loebus, London Down Syndrome Association, B.Montminy,Madame Vanier Children's Serv., A.Morse,Easter Seal Society, S.Wilson,Community Living Education Committee,R.Tisdale,Trustee, Absent:D.Almost,Ontario Assoc.For Families of Children with Communication Disorders,B.Han^/ey,Epilepsy Support Centre,M.Masters Integration Action for Inclusion London Chapter,C.Walker,Thames Valley District School Council Administration and Others J.Johnston,Learning Supervisor,Special Education P.Cook,Elementary Principal J.Van Bommel,Secondary Vice Principal 1.0 CALL TO ORDER The meeting was adjourned at 12:45 p.m.because of a lack of a quorum. J.BENNETT. Chairperson 2008 January 22...13 ( 13. REPORTS OF COMMITTEES-cont'd c.REPORT OF THE AUDIT COMMITTEE 2008 January 15 3:00 p.m.-4:14 p.m. MEMBERS PRESENT ADMINISTRATION AND OTHERS T.Grant B.Greene B.Tucker J.Stewart (Chair)'K.Meeson J.Berkin R.Tisdale (+ 3:11 p.m.) Trustee Visitors:S.Peters,T.Roberts 1.APPROVAL OF AGENDA The agenda was approved by motion. 2.CONFLICTS OF INTEREST -none declared. 3.COMMUNITY MEMBERSHIP -UPDATE Exec. Supt. B.Greene noted there have been no nominations from the various Chambers of Commerce in response tothe Chair's letter seeking assistance withcommunity membership.An email tothe general population was discussed and potentially interested parties will be contacted. The notice to the public remains on the TVDSB website. 4.INTERNAL AUDIT FUNCTION Exec. Supt.Greene reviewed the history of the three-year internal audit plan Deloitte was (^engaged to perform beginning in 2005.The plan focuses on risk assessment and school audits and will expire 2008 August.Discussion took place on the number of audits that should be performed each year and the process that tookplace historically when the former LondonBoard employed an internalauditorand audit technician. The possibllityofa combinationofbothan in- house and contracted plan was discussed.It was noted seven schools per year are currently audited under the plan.The following motion was moved and carried: That the Executive Superintendent of Business Services present options to the Committee for an enhanced new multi-year internal audit plan which may include an RFP,a recommendation that the existing auditor is retained,the employment of an internal auditor, or a combination of both an internal auditor and an audit firm. 5.FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Future agenda items were discussed and included the Deloitte management letter, monthly financial statements,and changes to PSAB regulations.Discussion followed on the format of the monthly statements and Exec.Supt.Greene was asked to provide a more detailed and user- friendly report. 6.OTHER BUSINESS The scheduling of an in-camera session at every Committee meeting was discussed. a.Personal Matter The Committee moved in-camera to discuss a Personal matter at 3:54 p.m. The public session of the Audit Committee reconvened at 4:10 p.m. /^7.NEXT MEETING The next meeting was scheduled for Tuesday,February 19 at 3:00 p.m. 2008 January 22...14 13.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd 0.REPORT OF THE AUDIT COMMITTEE -cont'd 8.ADJOURNMENT A motion to adjourn was moved and carried at 4:14 p.m. J.STEWART, Chairperson d.REPORT OF THE BUDGET ADVISORY COMMITTEE 2008 January 15 4:30 p.m.-5:47 p.m. MEMBERS PRESENT F.Exiey T.Grant S.Peters T.Roberts (Chair) R.Tisdale ADMINISTRATION AND OTHERS B.Greene S.Macey K.Meeson B.Tucker J.Berkin Exec.Supt.B.Greene called the meeting to order pending the election of the committee chairperson for 2008. 1.APPROVAL OF AGENDA The agenda was approved on motion. 2.CONFLICTS OF INTEREST None declared. 3.ELECTION OF COMMITTEE CHAIRPERSON Trustee Terry Roberts was nominated and acclaimed to the position of Committee Chair for 2008. 4.BUDGET ADVISORY COMMITTEE MANDATE Exec. Supt.Greene reviewed the Budget Advisory Committee mandate approved by the Board on 2007 November 13. It was agreed that no changes were required. 5.BUDGET DEVELOPMENT GROUP UPDATE Exec.Supt.Greene described the membership of the Budget Development Group noting all departments have representatives and Principals from both the elementary and secondary panel in each geographic area of Thames Valley have representation.Ail Supervisory Officers participate,along with other identified resource staff which Includes the Manager of Public Affairs &Community Relations. The focus of the group has been to identify potential issues to be presented to the Trustees on 2008 January 29 forfurther direction. Following the Trustees input,the list wili be returned to the Budget Development Group for completion of the Multi-Year Preliminary Budget Review form. • Director Tucker noted the group will not only identify the issues,but will provide options and describe the impact on students. Exec.Supt.Greene noted the issues identified are part of a multi-year review and will not necessarily pertain only to the 2008-09 Budget.He clarified it is expected that the Budget Development Group will disband upon completion of the reviews.Discussion took place on the impact negotiations will have on the process. 2008 January 22...15 13.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd d.REPORT OF THE BUDGET ADVISORY COMMITTEE -cont'd 6. MULTI-YEAR PRELIMINARY BUDGET REVIEW SHEET -REVISED The following motion was moved and carried: That the Board adopt the revised Multi-Year Preliminary Budget Review form. 7.2008-09 PRELIMINARY BUDGET ASSUMPTIONS AND PROCESS Exec. Supt.Greene distributed the 2007-08 PreliminaryBudget Assumptions and Process for discussion and revisions forthe 2008-09 budget year. Alengthy discussion followedand the Committee made revisions to the general,revenue and expenditure assumptions.The importanceofearly communication and community input was emphasized. The following •motion was moved and carried: That the Assumptions and Process,as amended,go forward as a draft to all Trustees at the January 29 Budget Advisory Committee meeting. 8.BUDGET ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETING WITH TRUSTEES 2008 JANUARY 29,4:00 P.M. -7:00 p.m.,THAMES ROOM It was clarified the Intent of the meeting on January 29 is to bring forward the work of the Budget Development Group and the revised assumptions and process. 9.OTHER BUSINESS Exec. Supt.Greene confirmedthat as the Multi-Year PreliminaryBudget Reviewforms are completed they are to come forward to the Budget Advisory Committee,then on to the Board. The importance of early communication and development of a communications plan was stressed.The Committee discussed seeking public input prior to the development of the budget.Discussion on format and process followed. 10.FUTURE MEETINGS The following meetings were scheduled: Tuesday,January 29,4:00 p.m. -7:00 p.m. Monday,February 04 at 1:00 p.m. 11.ADJOURNMENT A motion to adjourn was moved and carried at 5:47 p.m. RECOMMENDATIONS: 1.That the Board adopt the revised Multi-Year Preliminary Budget Review form. 2.That the assumptions and process,as amended,go forward as a draft to all Trustees at the January 29 Budget Advisory Committee meeting. T.ROBERTS. Chairperson The Recommendation was adopted on motion of T.Roberts,seconded by T.Grant.Trustee Jaffe and Stewart were absent during the vote. It was requestedthatthe word "Draft"be addedtothe 2008-09 Preliminary BudgetAssumptions and Process until approved by the Board. 2008 January 22...16 13.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd e.REPORT OF THE CHAIRS' COMMITTEE 2008 January 16 9:20 a.m.-12:30 p.m. MEMBERS ADMINISTRATION AND OTHERS P.Sattler (Chair)J.Stewart B.Tucker S.Christie G.Hart Regrets:J.Bennett 1.APPROVAL OF AGENDA The agenda was approved. 2.CONFLICTS OF INTEREST -none declared 3.REVIEW OF 2008 JANUARY 22 BOARD AGENDA The agendas for the in-camera and public Board meetings of 2008 January 22 were discussed and updated. 4.CORRESPONDENCE -none 5.DENTALA/ISION SCREENING PROCESS Director Tucker described the process of providingdental and vision,screening to Thames Valley students by the area boards of health, and the Freedom of Information (FOl) implications.He will discuss the matter with the Middlesex-London Health Unit Medical Officer of Health at an upcoming meeting. 6.MPP GRADUATION CERTIFICATES The practice of providing class lists to MPPs to prepare certificates for graduating students and the FOl implications was discussed.ChairSattler will add the itemto the February 15 meeting agenda for discussion with system MPPs. 7.GOVERNANCE WORKSHOP FACILITY Chair Sattler updated members on arrangements for the trustee Governance workshop scheduled for April 17 and 18.The meeting will be held at Stoneridge Inn. More details will be provided as plans are finalized. 8.MINISTRY OF EDUCATION OPERATIONAL REVIEW OF SCHOOL BOARDS Executive Superintendent B.Greene joined the meeting to apprise the committee of the upcoming Ministry of Education operational review of district school boards.He advised that the review is intended to look at business practices,financial commitments and measures to enhance accountability.It will cover functional areas including Governance and School Board Administration Human Resource Management and School Staffing/Allocation, Financial Management,and School Operations and Facilities Management. A pre visit will be conducted on February 11 following which the review will be conducted over approximately 6-8 weeks.Exec.Supt.Greene will speak to the matter at the 2008 January 22 Board meeting.Details of the review will be made available to trustees in their information package. 9.NEGOTIATIONS UPDATE Executive Council members joined the meeting and updated the committee on negotiation matters.The item will be discussed with trustees in-camera at the 2008 January 22 meeting. Exec. Supt.Sereda proposed that regularly-scheduled Negotiations Advisory Committee meetings be held the first Tuesday of each month from 3:00 - 4:30 p.m. to enable trustees to plan to attend. I 2008 January 22...17 13.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd e.REPORT OF THE CHAIRS'COMMITTEE -cont'd 10. ENTRY PLAN CONSULTATION/FEEDBACK MEETINGS Director Tuckerupdatedthe committee onmeetingsscheduledtodiscuss his entry plan and receive feedback from trustees.Trustees are invited to attend a meeting on either April9 from 4:00-5:30p.m..or April 23 from 7:00-8:30p.m. at the EducationCentre. 11.DIRECTOR/SYSTEM REVIEW COMMITTEE Director Tuckerspoke tothedisbanded Director/System ReviewCommitteesuggesting that evaluation of the Director be an ongoing process.It was noted that the Director evaluation will be discussed at the upcoming Governance workshop with trustees.The workshop may also provide an opportunity toconsider reinstating the Director/System Review Committee. 12.FEBRUARY 15 MPP MEETING Agenda Items for the 2008February 15 MPP meeting wereconsidered.The following initial Items were suggested.Trustees are invited to offerany additional items. Followup on Issues from Previous Meeting Update on ARCS Small Rural Schools Freedom of Information/Privacy Issues Construction Costs of Environmentally-friendly Schools Special Education Need for Inter ministerial Coordination of Social Services {I.e.,Children's Mental Health) Capital Funding for Growth Areas Itwas agreed that supervisory officers will be asked to attend to provideadditionaldetailon •issues.Briefing notes will be prepared to support the discussions and provided to trustees byFebruary8.Itwas notedthatthe next MPP meetingisscheduled forMay23at 9:00a.m.. 13.APRIL 18 MP MEETING Chair Sattler indicated that it is necessary to reschedule the April 18 meeting with the regional MPs,because ofthe conflict with the Governance workshop. Anewdate of April 4 has been proposed. 14.TAVISTOCK LIBRARY &DAYCARE Trustee Hart described a request to establish a library and day care centre on the Tavlstock PS property. A letter from the County of Oxford will be Includedon the January 22 Board agenda under "Communications". 15.CHILDREN'S FESTIVAL SECRET GARDENS TOUR A request for trustees toparticipate inthe upcomingChildren's Festival Secret Gardens Tour was considered.The letter received from the organizers will be Included In the trustees' information package. 16.STUDENT TRUSTEE REQUEST TO ATTEND CONFERENCE A request from Student Trustee Patterson toattend the Ontario Student Trustee Association conference In Ottawa from February 14-17 was considered and approved.Aletter from the presidentofthe Association relatedtodelegate safetyandsupervisionwas notedand will be provided tothe student trustee mentors fordiscussion with the students. 17.OTHER BUSINESS a.Accommodation Review Committee Process Trustee Hart asked that the ARC reporting process and the trustees'role In receiving Input be reviewed.Itwas suggested that a trustee caucus be scheduled prior to the completion of the ARCs. 2008 January 22...18 13.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd e.REPORT OF THE CHAIRS'COMMITTEE -cont'd 17.OTHER BUSINESS -cont'd b.Van Transportation Issue Update Director Tucl<er updated the committee on a review conducted by supervisory officers on Board-owned vans and compliance with Ministry of Transportation expectations following the recent traffic accident in Bathurst,N.B.involving a passenger van. A preliminary response from principals indicates that safety measures are in place as required.A carrier will be asked to complete an independent audit as well.Director Tucker will have information fonvarded to trustees in this regard. c.Budget Advisory Committee The format of the January 29 in-camera Budget Advisory Committee meeting was discussed.It will be held from 4:00 -7:00 p.m.in the Thames Room of the Education Centre to look at budget issues related to legal, property,negotiation and/or personal items in accordance withthe Education Act The meeting will be followed by a regular Budget Advisory Committee meeting.Managers of Public Relations and Finance as well as the incoming supervisory officers will also be invited to attend. 18.DATE AND TIME OF NEXT MEETING The following meetings have been scheduled to commence at 9:00 a.m.: February 6,20; March 5,19; - April 2,16; - May 7, 21; June 4,18. 19.ADJOURNMENT The meeting adjourned at 12:30 p.m. RECOMMENDATIONS:none P.SATTLER. Chairperson f.REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE • IN CAMERA 2008 January 22 MEMBERS PRESENT ADMINISTRATION AND OTHERS P.Sattler (Chair)P.Jaffe B.Tucker M.Moynihan 8.Doub S.Peters B.Greene V.Nielsen F.Exiey S. Polhill (5:20)K.Dalton P.Tufts T.Grant T.Roberts C. Murphy B.Wagner G.Hart J.Stewart (5:28)M.Sereda K.Wilkinson R.Tisdale C.Bourbonnais-MacDonald K.Bushell L.Griffith-Jones S.Christie S.Hughes C.Dennett Regrets:J.Bennett,K.Patterson,J.Rowe Absent:M.Hendrick The Committee met In camera from 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. 2008 January 22...19 I ^13.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES - cont'd f.REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE -IN CAMERA -cont'd 1.APPROVAL OF AGENDA The agenda was approved by motion. 2.CONFLICTS OF INTEREST - No conflicts of interest were declared. 3. Confidential personal and negotiation matters were discussed. 4.RISE AND REPORT A motion to rise and report was moved at 6:00 p.m.and carried. RECOMMENDATION: That the motion approved at the 2008 January 22 in-camera meeting related to two retirements by mutual consent be approved. P.SATTLER, Chairperson The recommendation was adopted on motion of J.Stewart,seconded by T.Grant. 14.COMMUNICATIONS a.CHAIR'S SUMMARY UPDATE Chair Sattler advised trustees that she attended Minister of Education Wynne's visit to Jack Chambers P.S.followed bya luncheon at the Education Centre where she and Trustee Hart had an opportunity to have a one-on-one discussion with the Minister. She and Exec.Supt.Greene attended a pre-budget consultation session with Finance Minister Dwight Duncan held in Stratford.In a brief presentation,Chair Sattler spoke regarding the following topics:full funding for the early learning initiative;declining enrolment adjustment grants; new special education funding mechanism;inner-ministerial coordination to address student health and social service needs (especially mental health area);greater support for "green" initiatives including construction costs associated with building environmentally friendly schools;TVDSB's support of the government's investment in Aboriginal education;as well as strengthened efforts to reduce child poverty. Chair Sattler and Trustee Roberts attended the opening of the Social Justice Conference.She also attended an OPSBA webcast presentation to school board Chairs and Directors; Accommodation Review Committee (ARC)meetings for Middlesex 1 and 2 and London 3,as well as the Cityof London Mayor's State of the City address. b.ONTARIO PUBLIC SCHOOL BOARDS'ASSOCIATION Trustee Hart advised that the next OPSBA Board of Directors'meeting is scheduled for 2008 February 29 and March 01 to be held at the Metropolitan Hotel,Toronto.He will also be attending the OPSBA Safe Schools Pre-Symposium -Bill 212 on 2008 January 24. c.COUNTY OF OXFORD A letter from Lisa Miettinen,CEO and Chief Librarian,Oxford County Library Board,to Chair Sattler was received requesting that the Thames Valley District School Board consider the sale ofsurplus school propertyin Tavistock,Ontario,forconstructionofanew library/child care facility. 2008 January 22...20 14.COMMUNICATIONS -cont'd c.COUNTY OF OXFORD-cont'd Trustee Hart provided background information related to the Oxford County Library Board's request.He sought conceptual approval of the request. Exec.Supt.Greene commented that Ministry regulations must be followed for the sale of school board property once itis declared surplus. He noted that the Tavistock P.S. property has not been declared surplus. Exec. Supt. Greene advised that the Administration would require conceptual site plans or schematics before anymotionregarding sale or lease ofa propertywas considered.The following motionwas moved byG. Hart,seconded byJ.Stewart and carried: That the Board Chair respond to the letter from the Oxford County Library indicatingthe Board's interest in a library day care centre at Tavistock Public School and discussions around any obstacles. 15.NOTICE OF MOTION -none 16.MOTION -NOTICE OF WHICH HAS BEEN GIVEN -none 17.ADDITIONAL ITEMS -none 18.QUESTIONS/COMMENTS BY MEMBERS Trustee Tisdale asked if any information had been received fromthe Ministry related tothe proposed full-day Junior/Senior Kindergarten program. Exec.Supt.K.Dalton advised that nothinghas been received through the capital planning process.Director Tucker also confirmed that there has been nofurther communication after notification was receivedthat Dr.Charles Pascal will be conducting the initial research.Director Tucker advised that Minister Wynne will be attending an upcoming Councilof Directors of Education (CODE)meeting and that he plans on taking this matter under advisement Trustee Hart asked about changes tothe senior technology curriculum. Exec. Supt. L.Elliott advised that itis expected that the Ministry will respond by the end of 2008 March.If not,she will seek further clarification regarding the government's commitment to the technology area. Trustee Tisdale requested that the issue of program changes be added to the agenda for the upcoming MPP meeting. 19.ADJOURNMENT The meeting adjourned at 9:20 p.m. on motion ofT. Grant,seconded by P. Jaffe. CONFIRMED: Chairperson 2008 January 22...21 SUMMARY OF APPROVED RECOMMENDATIONS OF 2008 JANUARY 22 That the Board approve Program Services,Psychological Services to hire a Psychologist to v/ork within the Suspension/Expulsion Alternative Education program. In addressing the technology needs of trustees,the Trustee Technology Needs Ad Hoc Committee recommends that: the trustee Board telephone home service be discontinued; each trustee be provided with a blackberry or alternate device as deemed necessary; use of the trustees*Board fax machines be maintained; ongoing training and support be provided to trustees regarding use of the communication technology; trustees return their laptops if they are not using them for Board business; an interactive voice message system be investigated. That the Trustee Technology Needs Ad Hoc Committee be disbanded. That the Board adopt the revised Multi-Year Preliminary Budget Review form. That the Assumptions and Process,as amended,go forward as a draft to all Trustees at the January 29 Budget Advisory Committee meeting. That the motion approved at the 2008 January 22 in-camera meeting related to two retirements by mutual consent be approved. That the Board Chair respond to the letter from the Oxford County Library indicating the Board's interest ina libraryday care centre at Tavistock PublicSchool and discussions around any obstacles.