9/9/2008 - Regular Board MeetingTHAMES VALLEY DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD
REGULAR BOARD MEETING,PUBLIC SESSION
2008 SEPTEMBER 09,7:00 P.M.
BOARD ROOM,EDUCATION CENTRE
AGENDA
V-verbal
M -material
1.CALL TO ORDER V
2.O CANADA V
3.SPECIAL MUSICAL PRESENTATION -none V
4.APPROVAL OF AGENDA M
5.OFFICIAL RECORD
6.RECOGNITIONS
a.Brian Greene,Past President,Ontario Association of School Business Officials V
b.Forest City Volleyball Under 17 Boys'National Championship Winners V
c.Down Syndrome Research Institute V
d.Banff Work Experience V
7.CONFLICTS OF INTEREST V
8.CHAIR'S ANNOUNCEMENTS V
9.DIRECTOR'S ANNOUNCEMENTS V
10.PRESENTATIONS
a.Middlesex 1 Accommodation Review Committee Public Input M
11.MINUTES OF THE 2008 JUNE 24 REGULAR BOARD MEETING AND THE 2008
AUGUST 26 SPECIAL BOARD MEETING
a.Confirmation of Minutes M
b.Business Arising from the Minutes
12.STUDENT TRUSTEES'UPDATE V
13.REPORTS FROM THE ADMINISTRATION
a.Administrative Response to the London 3 Accommodation Review
Committee (ARC)(Brick Street,Manor and Highland Park,Woodland Heights M
Public Schools)M
b.Minority Report London 3 ARC -Michelle Burnett,Suzanne Obbema M
c.Minority Report London 3 ARC -Lloyd Stevenson,Beth Petersen M
d.2008-2009 Approved Budget -Recommendations 4 & 5 postponed from the 2008 M
June 24 Board Meeting
e.2008-09 Board Meeting Schedule M
14.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES
a.Chairs'Committee,2008 September 03 M
b.Committee of the Whole,In Camera,2008 September 09 V
15.COMMUNICATIONS
a.Ontario Public School Boards'Association -Update V
16.NOTICE OF MOTION
17.MOTION -NOTICE OF WHICH HAS BEEN GIVEN -none
18.ADDITIONAL ITEMS
19.QUESTIONS/COMMENTS BY MEMBERS
20.ADJOURNMENT
r-'.
THAMES VALLEY DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD
REGULAR MEETING, PUBLIC SESSION
2008 SEPTEMBER 09
The Board met in regular sessionon 2008 September 09 in the Board Room atthe Education Centre,meeting
in public session at 7:05 p.m.to 9:55 p.m.The following were in attendance:
TRUSTEES
J.Bennett
S.Doub
F.Exiey
T.Grant
Regrets:M.Hendricl<,P. Sattler
ADMINISTRATION AND OTHERS
B.Tucker
L.Elliott
B.Greene
M.Sereda
G.Hart
P.Jaffe
S.Peters
S. Polhill (-9:30)
T.Roberts
J.Rowe
J.Stewart (Chair)
R.Tisdale
L.Varghese
C.Bourbonnais-MacDonald K.Bushell
L.Griffith-Jones S.Christie
S.Hughes K.Meeson
M.Moynihan G.Owens
V.Nielsen W.Scott
B.Sonier K.Young
M.E.Smith S.Young
P.Tufts
B.Wagner
1.CALL TO ORDER.
Board Vice-Chairperson J. Stewart called the meeting toorderat7:05 p.m. ChairStewartwelcomed
LauraVarghese to her first official Board meetingas Student Trustee.
2./3. O CANADA AND MUSICAL PRESENTATION
The meeting opened with the singing of O'Canada.
4.APPROVAL OF AGENDA
The agenda was approved on motion of F.Exiey,seconded byP. Jaffe.
5.OFFICIAL RECORD -none
6.RECOGNITIONS
a.BRIAN GREENE, PAST PRESIDENT,ONTARIO ASSOCIATION OF SCHOOL BUSINESS
OFFICIALS
Ontario Association of School Business Officials President Bruce Thomson and Executive
Director Bill Blackie were introduced and welcomed.Executive Superintendent Brian Greene
was recognized for his leadership and direction during his term as President of OASBO.Mr.
Thomson advised that Mr.Greene was instrumental in redefining the purpose of OASBO and
settingstrategic directions. The Boardwas thanked forsupporting Mr.Greene's participation in
this important role and for allowing him toactas aii ambassadorforthe TVDSB.Mr.Thomson
noted that OASBO continues to value Mr.Greene's ongoing participation and dedicated service.
2008 September 09...2
6.RECOGNITIONS -cont'd
b.FOREST CITY VOLLEYBALL UNDER 17 BOYS'NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP WINNERS
W.McConnell,Secondary Athletics Co-ordinator,announced that the Forest City U17 Boys'
Voiieyball team won London's firstNationalChampionshipGoldMedalduringthe spring of2008.
He explained that 12 students from eight Thames Valley schools came together as a team and
displayed character and spirit during difficult matches that resulted in winning the final
championship round against the Ottawa Mavericks for the gold medal.
Coaches J. Fish, South S.S,. and P.Sidler,Thames S.S., introduced the following players;
Spencer Gee, Banting S.S.;Bryan Duquette Central Elgin S.S.;T,J.Sanders and Kartll<
.Vaideswaran, Oakrldge S.S.; Evan Bradley,Parkside C.l.;Jordan Timpany,Justin Scapinello,
and Kevin Rown,Saunders S.S.;Adam Orth, and Andrew Ross,South S.S.;and John
Drummelsmith and Andrew McWilliam,West Elgin S.S.Congratulations of the Board was
extended to the Forest City U17 Boys'Volleyball team for their outstanding achievement. A
video clip of the final moments in the playoff winning game was viewed.
c.DOWN SYNDROME RESEARCH INSTITUTE
The Down Syndrome Research Institute recognition was deferred to the 2008 September 23
Board Meeting.
d.BANFF WORK EXPERIENCE -
The Banff WorkExperience recognition was deferredtothe 2008 September 23 Board meeting.
7.CONFLICTS OF INTEREST -No conflicts of interest were declared.
8.CHAIR'S ANNOUNCEMENTS -none
9.DIRECTOR'S ANNOUNCEMENTS
Director B. Tucker referred to a number of excellent newspaper articles regarding educational
programs that appeared recently in the media and specifically an article in the London Free Press
regarding suicide awareness.He extended thanks to the staff responsible for raising the awareness
of student suicide prevention.
Exec. Supt. B.Greene referred to a recent'Ministry funding announcement released during 2008
August. The new funding enhancements throughthe Grants forStudent Needs (GSN)have been
approved for 2008-09 and future years. The Ministry has indicated its commitment to support
Provincial Discussion Table Agreements (PDT)with a3 percent increase in salary benchmarks above
the 2008-09 GSN as well as an intention to provide funding to eligible boards for a furthersalary
benchmark increase of 3 percent in 2009-2010,2010-11,and 2011-12.
Exec. Supt.Greene highlighted other PDT enhancements during 2008-09 including elementary
supen/ision,secondary programming,occasional teachers and professional developmentand training
for education support workers amounting to $2.4M. As well,during 2009-2010,there are to be 14
new funding enhancements.It was noted that complete information regarding Memorandum
2008:B10 is available on the Ministry of Education website.
2008 September 09...3
10.PRESENTATIONS
a.MIDDLESEX 1 ACCOMMODATION i^iEVIEW COMMITTEEPUBLIC INPUT
The following individuals and organizations presented public input related to the Middlesex 1
Accommodation Review Committee considerations.
11,
12.
Roxanne McDougall Melbourne community Middlesex 1
Karen Aranha Glencoe District High School
Revitalization Group
Middlesex 1
Flora MacKellar Deller Individual Middlesex 1
Jeff Denning Metcalfe School Community
Council
Middlesex 1
Joanne Vanderheyden Strathroy-Caradoc Municipality Middlesex 1
Jenny Gough Individual Middlesex 1
Angela Brodie Individual Middlesex 1
Ron Carruthers Individual Middlesex 1
Millar Nichol Caradoc South School Council Middlesex 1
Don Langford Individual Middlesex 1
Steve Taylor Individual Middlesex 1
Heather McVicar Individual Middlesex 1
•Stephanie Smith, Paul
Middlesex Junior Farmers Middlesex 1
Doug Smith Individual Middlesex 1
Chair Stewart advised that the Board will consider the ARC recommendations and public input
at itsmeetingon2008 September 23. Heextended appreciationon behalfofthe Boardto all the
presenters.
MINUTES OF THE 2008 JUNE 24 REGULAR BOARD MEETING AND THE 2008 AUGUST 26
SPECIAL BOARD MEETING
a.CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES
The minutes ofthe Regular Board Meeting,2008 June 24 were adopted on motionofR.Tisdaie,
seconded byG.Hart. The minutes ofthe Special Board Meeting,2008August26were adopted
on motion of R.Tisdaie,seconded by G. Hart.
b.BUSINESS ARISING FROM MINUTES -none
STUDENT TRUSTEES'UPDATE
Student Trustee J. Rowe advised that he and Student Trustee L.Varghese are looking forward to
working with the Board.Presently,they are seeking input from secondary school principals and
student advisors in order to plan and schedule meetings ofthe Student Advisory Council.Student
Trustee L,Varghese commented that she is looking forward to the opportunity of representing
students at the Board table.
2008 September 09...4
13.Reports from the administration
a.ADMINISTRATIVE RESPONSE TO THE LONDON 3 ACCOMMODATION REVIEW
COMMITTEE (ARC) (BRICK STREET,MANOR AND HIGHLAND PARK, WOODLAND
HEIGHTS PUBLIC SCHOOLS)
Superintendent V.Neilsen introduced the administrative response to the London 3
Accommodation Review Committee (ARC)noting it has completed its task to revievir
accommodation issues affecting Brick Street,Manor and Highland Park,and Woodland Heights
Public Schools as recommended and approved by the Board at its meeting of 2007 April 10..
Trustee R.Tisdale,in her capacity as Chair of the London 3 Accommodation Review Committee,
presented a summary of its Final Report.She extended appreciation to each of the committee
members:Michelle Burnett,Beth Petersen,Karen Henderson-Harrington,Suzanne Obbema,
Lloyd Stevenson,Deb Gregor,Shelley VanderWeyst,Councillor David Winninger,Trustee Polhill,
and TVDSB administrative support for their time, effort and commitment to this important process
Members of the ARC in attendance were introduced.
Trustee Tisdale advised that London 3 ARC has been engaged in discussions since 2007 May
28 with the final ARC Committee meeting held exactly one year later.
The London Study Area 3 ARC was established to review accommodation issues at Brick Street,
Manor and Highland Park,and Woodland Heights Public Schools.Specifically,Senior
Administration recommends that students currently at Brick Street and Manor &Highland Park
be consolidated at Woodland Heights.Renovations and the addition of portables would be
required to accommodate the additional students at Woodland Heights.Brick Street and Manor
and Highland Park Public Schools would close.
Presently,Brick Street Public School has an On-the-Ground (OTG)capacity of 270,last year's
enrolment was 246 Full-time Equivalent (FTE)resulting in an occupancy rate of 91 percent.Brick
Street is also the home of the Alternative Parent Participating Learning Experience (APPLE)
program.Just more than 47 percent of the students at Brick Street are enrolled in the APPLE
program.Manor and Highland Park Public School has an OTG capacity of 204,last year's
enrolment was 115.5 FTE and is at 57 percent capacity.Woodland Heights Public School has
an OTG of 574,last year's enrolment was 331.5 FTE and is at 58 percent capacity.
The ARC membership met a total of 10 times including the initial organization meeting with all
ARCs.Public input included a total of 21 presentations from individuals,11 group presentations,
and 8 written submissions.Tours of the facilities were made available at each school,as well
as a tour of Penny Lane Park located at Brick Street Public School.
The Committee's final recommendations are as follows:
1.Close Brick Street Public School and combine Brick Street Public School and Woodland
Heights Public School at Woodland Heights Public School in 2009 September.
2.Keep Manor and Highland Park Public School open.
3.Continue APPLE program at Woodland Heights as it currently operates up to Grade 6 and
expand to Grade 7 in 2010 and Grade 8 in 2011.
4.Keep the Special Education classes for Developmentally Challenged students at Woodland
Heights.
5.Relocate Penny Lane Park of Brick Street Public School to Woodland Heights Public School
yard.
6.Upon amalgamation,a new school name be established in place of Woodland Heights Public
School.
7.That a TVDSB transportation bus stop be established in the vicinity of Commissioners Road
and Topping Lane to accommodate families ofstudents who access child carefacilities in this ^
location.
2008 September 09...5
13.REPORTS FROM THE ADMINISTRATION -cont'd
a.ADMINISTRATIVE RESPONSE TO THE LONDON 3 ACCOMMODATION REVIEW .
COMMITTEE (ARC) (BRICK STREET,MANOR AND HIGHLAND PARK, WOODLAND
HEIGHTS PUBLIC SCHOOLS)-Trustee Tisdale's comments -cont'd
Trustee Tisdale concluded that the final report also contains a request and information regarding
the relocation of Penny Lane Park,if Brick Street PS were to close.There have been two
Minority Reports submitted,one from the Brick Stree.t representatives,and the other from the
Manor and Highland Park representatives.They were included In the agenda material for
trustees'information and consideration.
Administrative Response
Supt. V. Neilsen presented the Administrative response to the final report of the London 2
Accommodation Review Committee.The Senior Administration's response and rationale to the
recommendations were outlined as follows.The ARC completed its process with a final public
input meeting on 2008 May28 after which the Final ARC Report was forwarded to the Senior
Administration for response.
Supt. Neilsen reported thatthe London3Accommodation ReviewCommittee's recommendation
to keep Manor and Highland Park Public School open cannot be supported by the Senior
Administration.The consolidation of students from all three schools to the Woodland Heights site
will allow program benefits for both the Brick Street and the Manor and Highland Park students
that would not be possible staying at their present sites.Increased number of students and
resultingstaffallocated tothe consolidated school will realizeprogram benefits whichincludebut
are not limited to:
increased special education resources resulting inmore flexibility to meet student needs;
greater budget for centralized resources;e.g.,Library,athletics, literacy;
increased opportunities for teacher specialization;
increased adults available for co-curricular and extracurricular activities;
increased flexibility and number of adults for supervision of students;
increased Learning Support Teacher and Teacher Librarian time;
on-site staff collaboration for curricular responsibilities;
increased opportunities for teacher sharing on-site,within divisions; and;
increased flexibility for class organizations to benefit students.
She advised that the closure of the two schools isfiscally responsible as it eliminates the ongoing
operating costs of both Manor and Highland Park and Brick Street PublicSchools.In addition,
closure of Manor and Highland Park eliminates the surplus space at this site (the facility is at
approximately 50% capacity).
Another program recommendation of the ARCwas to leave the classes for Developmentally
Challenged students at theWoodland Heights PublicSchoolsite. Senior Administrationsupports
the ARC'Sprogram recommendation and agrees that the Woodland Heightssite could continue
to be the host of the Developmental program at this time.
The consolidation of the students from Woodland Heights,Brick Street,Manor and Highland
Park, and the Developmental program can be accomplished withminor renovations to Woodland
Heights PublicSchool and the addition of portables to accommodate proposed enrolment.
Supt.Tufts explained that Recommendation 3.0dischargesthe ARC as pertheThames Valley
District School Board's procedure on "Pupil Accommodation and Facility Organization."
Appreciation Is extendedto the ARC Committee members and the personnel ofthe Thames
Valley District School Board who provided an invaluable resource tothe Committee.The work
completed,the time spent, and the careful deliberations ofthe members contributes to the
processof providing the maximum program opportunities for the maximum number ofstudents.
2008 September 09...6
13.REPORTS FROM THE ADMINISTRATION -cont'd
a.ADMINISTRATIVE RESPONSE TO THE LONDON 3 ACCOMMODATION REVIEW
COMMITTEE (ARC) (BRICK STREET,MANOR AND HIGHLAND PARK, WOODLAND
HEIGHTS PUBLIC SCHOOLS)-Administrative Response -cont'd
Senior Administrative Response to Specific London 3 ARC Recommendations
a.Keep IVlanor and Hiohiand Park Pubiic Scliooi open
As detailed above,keeping IVlanor and Highland Park Public School opened cannot be
support by Senior Administration as this does not enhance program opportunities for the
Manorand HighlandPark students,nor is it.fiscally responsible to operate this facility v^rhen
it is at approximately 50%capacity.
b.Continue the APPLE program at Woodland Heights as it currently operates up to Grade 6
and expand to Grade 7 in 2010 and Grade 8 in 2011.
This accommodation and expansion of the APPLE program v^^ould increase the need for
classroom space on the Woodland Heights site. It is projected that 8 portables would be
required to accommodate the APPLE program.Thus,the Senior Administration is in
agreement to the expansion of the APPLE program to grade 8, but at an alternative London
elementary school site.
c.Relocate Penny Lane Park of Brick Street Public School to Woodland Heights Public School
Yard:
As per regular practice inthe consolidation of school populations,Administration will work
with the Transition Committee to relocate as many components ofthe Penny Lane Park as
isfeasible to appropriate location(s)on the Woodland Heights PublicSchool Property.
d.Upon amalaamation.a new school name be established in place of Woodland Heiahts Public
School:
Itis the regular practice of Administration to encourage the T ransition Committee to workwith
the communities in choosing a new name for the consolidated student body.
e.That a TVDSB transportation bus stop be established In the vicinity of Commissioners Road
and Topping Lane to accommodate families of students who access child care facilities in this
location:
The regular Transportation policiesand procedures ofthe Board will guide the establishment
of bus stops for the new consolidated population.
Thetimelinespresented indicated a 2010 September completion date forthe Amalgamation
ofstudents from Brick Street Public School,Manorand Highland ParkandWoodland Heights
Public Schools to the Woodland Heights site as well as relocation and expansion of the
APPLE program to grade 7. Also indicated was a 2011 September date for the expansion
of the APPLE program to grade 8 at the new site as determined for 2010 September.
RECOMMENDATIONS;
1. That the students of Brick Street Public School be accommodated at Woodland Heights
Public School effective 2010 September 01;and
That the present Brick Street PublicSchool at 393 Commissioners Rd.W., London, be closed
and declared surplus effective 2010 June 30.
2.That the students of Manor and Highland Park Public School be accommodated at Woodland
Heights Public School effective 2010 September 01;and
That the present Manor and Highland Park Public School at 77 Tecumseh Avenue West,
London,be closed and declared surplus effective 2010 June 30.
3.That the London 3 Accommodation Review Committee be disbanded.
2008 September 09...7
13 REPORTS FROM THE ADMINISTRATION -cont'd
a.ADMINISTRATIVE RESPONSETOTHE LONDON 3 ACCOMMODATION REVIEW
COMMITTEE (ARC)(BRICK STREET,MANOR AND HIGHLAND PARK,WOODLAND
HEIGHTS PUBLIC SCHOOLS)-cont'd
Recommendations 1 and 2 were moved byR. Tisdale arid seconded byJ. Bennett.
The Administration responded totrustees'questions.The Director advised that aiternative sites
for the APPLE program w/ouid be identified w^ithin Thames Valley should the recommendations
be approved.Planning Officer G.Owens advised thatthe APPLE program enrolment for Junior
Kindergarten (JK)to Grade 6 for 2007 was 116.5 Full-time Equivalent (FTE)and should the full
JKto Grade8 program be implemented for 2012 enrolment would be approximately 144 FTE.
Mr.Owensnotedthatthe 2012-13 projected enrolmentfor Manor and Highland ParkP.S.,is 117-
120 FTE. ExecutiveOfficer K.Bushell commented onthe proposed renovationstotheWoodland
Heights P.S.facility noting that the upgrades and enhancements will exceed Board standards
(e.g., gymnasium,library,etc.).
The following motion was moved by R.Tisdale,seconded by J.Bennett and carried:
That Recommendations 1 and 2 ofthe Senior Administrative response to the London3 ARC
be deferred to the 2008 November 11 Board meeting for consideration.
Recommendation 3 was adopted on motion of R.Tisdale,seconded byT.Grant:
That the London 3 Accommodation Review Committee be disbanded.
ChairStewartadvised that public input for London 3 ARC will be held at the 2008October14
Regular Board meeting.
b.MINORITY REPORT LONDON 3 ARC
A Minority Report was submitted by Michelle Burnett,School Representative,and Suzanne-
Obbema,Community Representative,Bricl<Street P.S.with nine recommendations inresponse
to the Senior Administration's recommendations.
c.MINORITY REPORT LONDON 3 ARC -LLOYD STEVENSON,BETH PETERSEN
A Minority Report was submitted by Lloyd Stevenson,Community Representative,and Beth
Petersen, School Council Representative,Manor and Highland ParkP.S.requesting that options
be considered for students living on Centre Street as wellas special needs students.
d. 2008-2009 APPROVED BUDGET -RECOMMENDATIONS 4 &5 POSTPONED FROM THE
2008 JUNE 24 BOARD MEETING
Recommendation 4
That 50%of facility operation savings,derived from school consolidations,(ie.Utilities,
Maintenance,Cleaning Supplies,etc.)be directed to Capital Improvements toenhance school
programs,with amounts tobe approved by Board motion.
Recommendation 5
That a portion of any actual surplus at the end of each fiscal year be allocated toward a program
facility enhancement reserve up to $2M,with amounts to be determined by Board Motion.
The following motion was moved by G.Hart,seconded by R.Tisdale and carried:
That Recommendations 4 and 5 from the 2008 June 24 Board meetingbe defen-ed to the
2008September 23 Board meeting for consideration.
2008 September 09...8
13.REPORTS FROM THE ADMINISTRATION -cont'd
e.2008-09 BOARD MEETING SCHEDULE
The draft scheduleof2008-09Regular Board and Information Committee ofthe Whole meeting
dates was presented.The following recommendation was approved on motion of T. Grant,
seconded by R.Tisdale:
That the Board meeting schedule for the period 2008 September 01 to 2009 November 30
be approved as attached.
THAMES VALLEY DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD
Schedule of Regular Board and
Information Committee of the Whole Meeting Dates
2008 September 01 to 2009 November 30
1 DATE TIME BOARD/COMMITTEE
2008 9 5:00 p.m.and 7:00 p.m.In-camera and Regular Board
SEPTEMBER 23 5:00 p.m.and 7:00 p.m.in-camera and Regular Board
OCTOBER 7 7:00 p.m.Special Board Meeting
14 5:00 p.m.and 7:00 p.m.In-camera and Regular Board
28 5:00 p.m.and 7:00 p.m.In-camera and Regular Board
NOVEIVIBER 4 7:00 p.m. -Special Board Meeting
11 5:00 p.m.and 7:00 p.m.In-camera and Regular Board
25 5:00 p.m.and 7:00 p.m.In-camera and Regular Board
DECEMBER 2 7:00 p.m.Special Board Meeting
g 7:00 p.m.Inaugural Meeting
16 5:00 p.m.and 7:00 p.m.In-camera and Regular Board
2009 JANUARY 13 5:00 p.m.and 7:00 p.m.In-camera and Regular Board
27 5:00 p.m.and 7:00 p.m.In-camera and Regular Board
FEBRUARY 10 5:00 p.m.and 7:00 p.m.In-camera and Regular Board
24 5:00 p.m.and 7:00 p.m.In-camera and Regular Board
MARCH 10 5:00 p.m.and 7:00 p.m.In-camera and Regular Board
24 5:00 p.m.and 7:00 p.m.In-camera and Regular Board
APRIL 7 7:00 p.m.Infonnatlon Cttee of the Whole
14 5:00 p.m.and 7:00 p.m.In-camera and Regular Board
28 5:00 p.m.and 7:00 p.m.In-camera and Regular Board
MAY 12 5:00 p.m.and 7:00 p.m.In-camera and Regular Board
26 5:00 p.rn.and 7:00 p.m.In-camera and Regular Board
JUNE 2 7:00 p.m.Infonnatlon Ctte of the Whole
9 5:00 p.m.and 7:00 p.m.In-camera and Regular Board
23 5:00 p.m.and 7:00 p.m.In-camera and Regular Board
SEPTEMBER 8 5:00 p.m.and 7:00 p.m.In-camera and Regular Board
22 5:00 p.m.and 7:00 p;m.In-camera and Regular Board
OCTOBER 13 5:00 p.m.and 7:00 p.m In-camera and Regular Board
27 5:00 p.m.and 7:00 p.m.In-camera and Regular Board
NOVEMBER 10 5:00 p.m.and 7:00 p.m.In-camera and Regular Board
24 5:00 p.m.and 7:00 p.m.In-camera and Regular Board
2008 September 09..,9
14.REPORTS OF COWIMITTEES
a.REPORT OF THE CHAIRS'COMMITTEE 2008 September 03
10:15 a.m.-1:05 p.m.
MEMBERS ADMINISTRATION AND OTHERS
J.Bennett P.Sattler (Chair)B.Tucl^er S.Young.
G. Hart ("11:15)J.Stewart (10:26)S.Christie K.Young
1.APPROVAL OF AGENDA
The agenda was approved with the addition of 10.a-d.
2.CONFLiCTS OF INTEREST-none deciared
3.REVIEW OF 2008 SEPTEIWIBER 9 BOARD AGENDA
The agendas for the in-camera and public Board meetings of September 9, 2008, were
discussed and updated.It was agreed to reschedule an unsolicited presentation to a
future meeting.
4.CORRESPONDENCE
The following correspondence will be providedto trustees for their information:
WiPP S.Peters to Minister of Education re:County of Elgin resolution calling for
changes to school facilities funding,
Ontario Public School Boards'Association regarding its role.
A letter from the Thames Valley Council of Home &School Association regarding the
-possible ban on the sale of bottled water will be brought forward to a Board meeting in
October (date to be confirmed), when this agenda item will be discussed.
5.UPDATE -TRUSTEE TECHNOLOGY/TRUSTEE BLACKBERRY DEPLOYMENT
Manager S.Young joined the meeting to discuss deployment of blackberrys for trustees.
He provideda summary of the distribution including goals and strategies.All trustees will
be provided withvoice mail boxes through the central 452-2000 Thames Valley system, to
enable the senior administration to contact all trustees with one call.Manager Young will
investigate options to enable trustees to continue to use handsets withtheir home fax
lines for constituency work, and will report back at the next meeting.
6.ACCOMMODATION REVIEW COMMITTEE PHASE 1 UPDATE
In lightof the number of Phase 1 ARC reports and presentations anticipated throughout
the fall, the need to schedule a special Board meeting to consider the reports of the
Design Committees was discussed.Itwas agreed to hold a special Board meeting on
October 7 in this regard.
A second,special Board meeting was scheduled for November 4 to consider the French
Immersion Review.
7.MP-MPP SCHEDULED MEETINGS
The MP meeting scheduled for September 19 was cancelled because onlyone MP
confirmed participation.In viewofthe upcoming Federal election, it will be rescheduled
for a later date.
The MPP meeting scheduled for September 12 was also cancelled to accommodate MPP
availability,and tentatively rescheduled forOctober 31.Chair,Sattler will confirm the date
with the MPPs and advise trustees accordingly.
2008 September 09...10
14.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd
a.REPORT OF THE CHAIRS'COWIMITTEE -cont'd
8.OPSBA 2008-2009 MEMBERSHIP FEES •
The following motion was moved and carried:
That the Board authorize payment of the 2008-09 membership fees to the Ontario
Public School Boards'Association in the amount of $127,099.35.
9.OSTA 2008-2009 MEMBERSHIP FEES .
It was agreed to defer consideration of payment of the 2008-09 Ontario Student Trustees'.
Association fees until the October Chairs' Committee meeting, pending receipt of
additional information.
10.FUTURE CHAIRS'COMMITTEE MEETING DATES
The following future meetings were scheduled for 9:00 a.m.in the Governor Simcoe
Room:
September 17;
October 1,8, 22, 28 (following the Board meeting);
November 5,19;
December 10.
11.OTHER BUSINESS
a.Communications Toolkit
K. Young,Communications Manager,joined the meeting to discuss the OPSBA
Communication toolkit on provincial bargaining.It was agreed that the full package
will go to the Negotiations Committee for consideration. Itwas emphasized that Chair
Sattler and Director Tucker are the Board's spokespeopie on bargaining inquiries.A
brief one-page communications summary will be prepared for trustees'information on
September 9.
b.OPSBA Requested Input
Chair Sattler indicated that OPSBA has requested inputfrom boards by September
15 on the proposed Information/Communication Standard for the Accessibilityfor
Ontarians withDisabilities Act. Input will be sought on the Standard from the
Accessibility Working Group and brought to the Board for discussion.Given the short
turnaround time given by OPSBA, it was noted that itis unlikelythat the Board will be
able to meet the September 15 timeline.
OPSBA has also requested input related to declining enrolment by September 15.
This will be considered at the September 9 Board meeting under "OPSBA Update,"
and further discussed at a trustee caucus.
c.Budget Debrief
Atrustee caucus will be scheduled to discuss declining enrolment and the multi-year
budget process.Trustees will be apprised once a date has been determined.
d.Mileage Review Committee
Director Tucker described the establishment of a Mileage Review Committee to
consider amendments to the current mileage rate, as set by Board policy.Itwas
agreed not to appoint a trustee to this administrative committee,since the
recommendations must go to Policy,then Board,for consideration and action.
12.ADJOURNMENT
The meeting adjourned at 1:05 p.m. by motion.
2008 September 09...11
14.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES -cont'd
a.REPORT OF THE CHAIRS'COMMITTEE -cont'd
RECOMMENDATION:
That the Boardauthorizepayment ofthe 2008-09 membership fees to the OntarioPublic
School Boards'Association in the amount of $127,099.35.
P.SATTLER,
Chairperson
The recommendation was adopted on motionof J. Bennett,seconded by P. Jaffe.
Exec. Supt.M.Sereda advised that the MP-MPP meeting tentatively rescheduled for2008
October 31 conflictswithprincipal/viceprincipalinterviews.Trustee Stewart advised that the
Chairs'Committee will consider an alternative date for the MP-MPP meeting at its next
meeting.
b.REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE - IN CAMERA 2008 September 09
MEMBERS PRESENT
J.Stewart{Chair)
J.Bennett
S.Doub
F.Exiey
T.Grant
G.Hart (-4:35)
P.Jaffe
S.Peters
S.Polhill
T.Roberts
J.Rowe
R.Tisdale
L.Varghese
ADMINISTRATION AND OTHERS
B.Tucker
B.Greene
C.Bourbonnais-
MacDonald
K.Bushell
L.Griffith-Jones
S.Hughes
M.Moynihan
M.E.Smith
B.Sonier
P.Tufts
B.Wagner
K.Will^inson
S.Christie
K.Young
S.Young
Regrets:M.Hendrick, P.Sattler
The Committee met in camera from 4:40 p.m.to 6:24 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, property,legal and negotiationmatters were discussed.
4.RISE AND REPORT
A motion to rise and report was moved at 6:24 p.m. and carried.
RECOMMENDATION:
That the motions approved at the in-camera session of2008 September 09 related to
transportation contracts for the period 2008 September 01 to 2009 August 31 be approved.
J.STEWART.
Chairperson
The recommendation was adopted on motion ofT. Grant,seconded byG. Hart.
2008 September 09...12
15.COWIWIUNICATIONS
a.ONTARIO PUBLIC SCHOOL BOARDS'ASSOCIATION -UPDATE
Trustee Tisdale advised that she will be attending the OPSBA Education Program/Policy
Development Work Teams'joint meeting on 2008 September 18 and 19.She requested that
trustees submit any discussion itemsto her as soon as possible.
16.NOTICE OF MOTION -none
17.MOTION -NOTICE OF WHICH HAS BEEN GIVEN -none
18.ADDITIONAL ITEMS
Director Tucker officially welcomed Kevin Bushell to his new role as Executive Officer.
19.QUESTIONS/COMMENTS BY MEMBERS
a.Trustee Bennett reminded trustees ofthe Parent Learning Forum to be held on 2008 October
.25 noting that keynote presenter Alvin Law will reflect on living and learning with a never-give-
up attitude.Appreciation was extended to Arlene Morell,Chair,Thames Valley Parent
Involvement Committee (TVPIC),Public Affairs &Community Relations staff and Exec.Supt.
of Program Services L.Elliott for organizing and supporting this important parent/community
initiative.
b.Trustee Grant asked If the Board was exploring avenues for input to OPSBA orat the Ministry
level regarding addressing the TVDSB and itscoterminousboards'transportation
policy/procedure as they relate to residence distances from schoolsand walking distance
anomalies.'Director Tucker commented thatdiscussions are ongoing with the Chairs'
Committee regarding this matter.
Trustee Hartalso asked abouta specific situation relatedto pick up/drop offsites that are
other than the student's primary residence.Exec. Supt.Greene commented that the role of
the Consortium.is to administer Board policies and find efficiencies between TVDSBand Its
coterminous boards. Hereferredto the Board's publications Transportation Sen/ices, Your
Guide to Policies and Procedures;and Transportation Services:YourGuideto Roles and
ResponsibHities - StudentSafetyand Discipline.Henoted that everySeptember there are
transportation questions/concerns and that school principals are requested to ensure
clarification regardingthe Board's policy on transportation are conveyed toparents.Mr.
Greene indicated thatstudents will beassignedto a specific stopbutmay request,through
the school,touse an alternate,existing stop.This schedule must be usedona regular daily
basis and is based on available school bus.space.
c.Trustee Petersasked for an update onthe Medway High School and Montcalm Secondary
School twinning.Supts.K.Wilkinson,P.Tufts and C.Bourbonnaise-MacDonald provided
information on school opening indicating a smooth transitionas Medway and'Montcalm S.S.
students commenced sharing thesame facility for the 2008-09 school year.The Medway and
Montcalm S.S. staffandstudents were congratulated on working together in making the
twinning transition as seamless as possible.It was noted that "A Channel"featured television
coverage ofthe event earlyonTuesday, 2008 September 09. Supt.Wilkinson indicatedthat
additional information will be provided at the2008September23 Board meeting under
Departmental Updates.
^2008 September 09...13
20.ADJOURNMENT
The meeting adjourned at 9:55 p.m.,on motion-of R.Tisdale,seconded byS. Peters.
666^CONFIRMED:»•I ~—
Chairperson
2008 September 09...14
SUMMARY OF APPROVED RECOMMENDATIONS OF 2008 SEPTEMBER 09
That Recommendations 1 and 2 of the Senior Administrative response to the London 3 ARC be
deferred to the 2008 November 11 Board meeting for consideration.
That the London 3 Accommodation Review Committee be disbanded.
That Recommendations 4 and 5 from the 2008 June 24 Board meeting related to the 2008-09
Budget be deferred to the 2008 September 23 Board meeting.
That the Board meeting schedule for the period 2008 September 01 to 2009 November 30 be
approved as follows:
THAMES VALLEY DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD
Schedule of Regular Board and
information Committee of the Whole Meeting Dates
2008 September 01 to 2009 November 30
1 DATE TIME BOARD/COMMITTEE 1
2008 9 5:00 p.m.and 7:00 p.m.In-camera and Regular Board
SEPTEMBER 23 5:00 p.m.and 7:00 p.m.In-camera and Regular Board
OCTOBER 7 7:00 p.m.Special Board Meeting
14 5:00 p.m.and 7:00 p.m.In-camera and Regular Board
28 5:00 p.m.and 7:00 p.m.In-camera and Regular Board
NOVEMBER 4 7:00 p.m.Special Board Meeting
11 5:00 p.m.and 7:00 p.m.In-camera and Regular Board
25 5:00 p.m.and 7:00 p.m.In-camera and Regular Board
DECEMBER •2 7:00 p.m.Special Board Meeting
9 7:00 p.m.Inaugural Meeting
16 5:00 p.m.and 7:00 p.m.In-camera and Regular Board
2009 JANUARY 13 5:00 p.m.and 7:00 p.m.In-camera and Regular Board
27 5:00 p.m.and 7:00 p.m.
In-camera and Regular Board
FEBRUARY 10 5:00 p.m.and 7:00 p.m.In-camera and Regular Board
24 5:00 p.m.and 7:00 p.m.In-camera and Regular Board
MARCH 10 5:00 p.m.and 7:00 p.m.In-camera and Regular Board
24 5:00 p.m.and 7:00 p.m.In-camera and Regular Board
APRIL 7 7:00 p.m.Information Cttee of the Whole
14 5:00 p.m.and 7:00 p.m.In-camera and Regular Board
28 5:00 p.m.and 7:00 p.m.In-camera and Regular Board
MAY 12 5:00 p.m.and 7:00 p.m.In-camera and Regular Board
26 5:00 p.m.and 7:00 p.m.In-camera and Regular Board
JUNE 2 7:00 p.m.Information Ctte of the Whole
9 5:00 p.m.and 7:00 p.m.In-camera and Regular Board
23 5:00 p.m.and 7:00 p.m.In-camera and Regular Board
SEPTEMBER 8 5:00 p.m.and 7:00 p.m.In-camera and Regular Board
22 5:00 p.m.and 7:00 p.m.Ill-camera and Regular Board
OCTOBER 13 5:00 p.m.and 7:00 p.m In-camera and Regular Board
27 5:00 p.m.and 7:00 p.m.In-camera and Regular Board
NOVEMBER 10 5:00 p.m.and 7:00 p.m.In-camera and Regular Board
24 5:00 p.m.and 7:00 p.m.In-camera and Regular Board
r
2008 September 09...15
That the Board authorize payment ofthe 2008-09 membership fees to the Ontario PublicSchool
Boards'Association in the amount of $127,099.35.
That the motions approved at the in-camera session of 2008 September 09 related to
transportation contracts for the period 2008 September 01 to2009 August 31 be approved.