3/25/2014 - Regular Board MeetingTHAMES VALLEY DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD
REGULAR BOARD MEETING,PUBLIC SESSION
2014 MARCH 25,7:00 P.M.
BOARD ROOM,EDUCATION CENTRE
AGENDA
V-verbal
M -material
1.CALL TO ORDER V
2.0 CANADA V
3.SPECIAL MUSICAL PRESENTATION -Evelyn Harrison Public School Select
Choir
4.APPROVAL OF AGENDA V
5.OFFICIAL RECORD M
6.RECOGNITIONS -none
7.CONFLICTS OF INTEREST V
8.CHAIR'S ANNOUNCEMENTS V
9.DIRECTOR'S ANNOUNCEMENTS V
10.ADMINISTRATIVE PRESENTATIONS
a.Creating Pathways to Success M
11.MINUTES OF THE 2014 MARCH 4 BOARD MEETING M
a.Confirmation of Minutes
b.Business Arising from Minutes
12.STUDENT TRUSTEES'UPDATE V
13.REPORTS FROM THE ADMINISTRATION
a.School Year Calendars 2014-2015 M
b.Membership of Naming Committee for the Elementary French Immersion M
School at the Sir George Ross Site
14.REPORTS FROM COMMITTEES
a.Report of South Central London Elementary Accommodation Review M
Committee
b.South Central London Elementary Accommodation Review Committee - M
Minority Report
c.Final Report of the Board Agenda and Schedule Ad Hoc Committee M
REPORTS FROM COMWIITTEES -confd
d. Policy Working Committee,2014 February 25 IVI
e.Special Education Advisory Committee,2014 March 4 M
f.Chairs'Committee,2014 March 11 M
g.Appointment to the First Nations Advisory Committee M
h.Committee of the Whole - In Camera,2014 March 25 V
15.COMMUNICATIONS
a.Ontario Public School Boards'Association (OPSBA)-Update V
16.NOTICE OF MOTION -none
17.MOTION -NOTICE OF WHICH HAS BEEN GIVEN
18.ADDITIONAL ITEMS
19.QUESTIONS/COMMENTS BY MEMBERS
20.ADJOURNMENT
V.J
THAMES VALLEY DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD
REGULAR MEETING
2014 MARCH 25,7:02 P.M.
BOARD ROOM,EDUCATION CENTRE
The Board met inregular session on 2014 March25 inthe Board Room at the Education Centre, meeting
in public session at 7:02 p.m. The following were in attendance:
TRUSTEES ADMINISTRATION AND OTHERS
R.Tisdale (Chair)D.Idibe L.Elliott M.Moynihan
D.Clark P.Jaffe K.Dalton V.Nielsen
J.Coghlin B.McKinnon J.Pratt S.Powell
T.Grant (via S.Polhill C.Bourbonnals-K.Wilkinson
teleconference)M.Reld MacDonald K.Bushell
G.Hart J.Todd R.Culhane B.Williams
C.Tully M.Deman K.Young
Regrets:J Bennett,K.Edgar K.Altken
R.Campbell L.Griffith-Jones F.Gallzia (-7:52)
D.MacPherson S.Hambides (-7:52)
Absent:W.Huff S.Askey (-7:55)
1.CALL TO ORDER
Board Chair R.Tisdale called the meeting to order at 7:02 p.m.
2./3.O CANADA AND SPECIAL MUSICAL PRESENTATION
The appreciation of the Board was extended to Evelyn Harrison Public School Select Choir for their
performance and to Conductor Lac-Phong Phi for leading in the singing of O Canada and performing
two musical selections.
4.APPROVAL OF AGENDA
The agenda was approved on motion of D. Clark,seconded by M.Reld.
5.OFFICIAL RECORD
B.Williams,Supervisor,Corporate Services,read the following official record into the minutes:
"We regret to records the deaths of Melissa Christina Murdy, a Teacher at University Heights Public
School on 2014 March 5,Maggie Jenkins,a 12-year-old student at Davenport Public School on 2014
March 14,and Brianna Laforce,a 13-year old students at West Elgin Senior Elementary School on
2014 March 24."
6.RECOGNITIONS -none
7.CONFLICTS OF INTEREST -none declared
8.CHAIR'S ANNOUNCEMENTS-none
9.DIRECTOR'S ANNOUNCEMENTS
Director Elliott advised that six-time Olympic gold medal winner Clara Hughes visited 400 students
representing 35 high schools on Thursday,March 20th at the Western Fairground to raise awareness
about the stigma of mental health and illness.Ms.Hughes will be cycling across Canada to speak to
other schools about her personal struggle with depression.
9.DIRECTOR'S ANNOUNCEMENTS -cont'd
Supt.K.Edgar added that School Psychologist M.Gilpin has been collaboratingwiththe London
DistrictCatholic School Board to bring together Grade 9 &10 students to work on the first stage of a
student action plan that looks at buildinga stigma free environment for all students on mental health
and wellness.This year's theme is "Find Your Voice".
Director Elliott advised that TVDSB hosted a delegation of educators and students from China from
February 9 to 11.Students visited Clara Brenton,Masonvilie and Jack Chambers Public Schools
where they experienced being in a TVDSB classroom.She thanked staff and students who hosted
the Chinese delegation.Director Elliott presented the Board with a Chinese scroll entitled "About
Teacher".It will be displayed at the Education Centre.More information can be found on the
Director's Blog on the Board's website.
10.ADMINISTRATIVE PRESENTATIONS
a.Creating Pathways to Success
Supt.D.MacPherson presented an overview of the Creating Pathways to Success.He was
joined by Learning Supervisor F.Galizia and Learning Coordinator S.Hambides.
The presentation highlighted the program goals and connection to cum'culum expectations.The
program is structured around an inquiry framework that can be applied at any age with
consideration for learning activities that are developmentally appropriate.Program development
and implementation was delineated.
11.MINUTES OF THE 2014 MARCH 4 BOARD MEETING
~a.Confirmation of Minutes
s The minutes of the Regular Board Meeting of 2014 March 4 was adopted on motion of M.Reid,
seconded by J.Coghlln.
b.Business Arising from the Minutes -none
12.STUDENT TRUSTEES'UPDATE
Student Trustee C.Tully advised that the next Student AdvisoryCouncilmeeting is 2014 March26.
She noted the nomination applications for Student Trustee elections will dose on 2014 March 27.
Student Trustee D.Idibe added that the debate and election will take place on 2014 April 24.
13.REPORTS FROM THE ADMINISTRATION
a.School Year Calendars 2014-2015
Supt. M. Moynlhan provided the report on the 2014-2015 School Year Calendars to comply with
Ministry regulations In the development and approval of the school year calendars in order to
submit the calendars to the Ministry of Education for approval by2014 May 1.She was joined by
Principal S.Askey.
The calendars were developed with adherence to Ministry regulations and to maximize
transportation efficiencies and in consideration of the following priorities;
•Adherence to Regulation 304 of the Education Act and all the requirements as set out by the
Ministry of Education in a recent memo entitled "Ontario School Year Calendar 2014-2015"
(i.e.,194 school days,including up to 6 Professional Activity Days,between September 1,
2014 and June 30,2015);and
•Maximizing transportation efficiencies.
13.REPORTS FROM THE ADMINISTRATION -cont'd
a.School Year Calendars 2014-2015
b.
Calendars were developed inconsultation withthe London District CatholicSchool Board and the
French First Language Boards, through a meeting with stakeholder groups, and a publicinput
process through an online survey (January 21 -February 7, 2014).
Draft Elementary Calendar -Six Professional Activity Davs:
September 26 (School Improvement Planning)
November 21 (Parent-Teacher Interview Day)
January 16 (Assessment and Evaluation Day)
April 17 (School Improvement Planning as per Ministry direction)
June 8 (Assessment and Evaluation Day)
June 26 (School Improvement Planning)
Draft Secondary Calendar -Six Professional Activity Davs:
•September 26 (School Improvement Planning)
•November 21 (School Improvement Planning)
•January 30 (Turn-Around/Transition Day)
• April 17 (School Improvement Planning as per Ministry direction)
•June 25 (School Improvement Planning)
•June 26 (School Improvement Planning)
Where possible,Professional Activity Days in both panels are in alignment in an effort to
maximize transportation efficiencies.
RECOMMENDATION:
That the draft elementary and secondary 2014-2015 school year calendars be approved for
referral to the Ministry of Education.
The recommendation was moved by J.Todd,seconded by J.Coghlin and carried.
Membership of Naming Committee for the Elementary French Immersion School at the Sir
George Ross Site
Supt.S. Powell presented the report on the names of individuals who have agreed to participate
in the process to name the Elementary French Immersion School at the Sir George Ross site.
In accordance with the Board's Policy and Procedures regarding Naming of Schools,requests
were made for individuals to serve.It should be noted that,where a Naming Committee is struck
to consider a name change of an existing school,the Committee has the latitude to recommend
that there be no change in school name.
The Board's Policy and Procedures regarding Naming of Schools indicates that committee
membership includes:
• two trustees (non-voting)at least one of whom is from that electoral district;
• two parent representatives (voting)residing in the designated school boundary areas
appointed by the School Council for each of the school areas involved in a consolidation OR
when only one school is involved in a Naming Committee, two parent representatives (voting)
residing in the designated school boundary area,appointed by the School Council from each
Division attending the school;and
•the Superintendent(s)of Student Achievement (non-voting)for the area.
13.REPORTS FROM THE ADMINISTRATION -cont'd
b.Membership of Naming Committee for the Elementary French Immersion School at the Sir
George Ross Site -cont'd
An advertisement requesting submissions forschool names was placed inthe London Free Press
on 2014 March 22. Advertising was also done through school newsletters and on the Board
website.
All submissions are to be received by 2014 April 11,by B.Williams,Supervisor-Corporate
Services,for fonvarding on to the selection committee.
To avoid a conflict of interest in the selection process,members of the Naming Committees must
agree not to submit names for consideration.
RECOMMENDATION:
That the Naming Committee membership for the elementary French Immersion School at
the Sir George Ross site be approved.
The recommendation was moved by G. Hart,seconded by M.Reid and carried.
14.REPORTS OF COMMITTEES
a.Report of South Central London Elementary Accommodation Review Committee
Trustee S.Poihiii presented the report of the South Central London Elementary Accommodation
Review Committee (Item A).
The report is the result of the work by the South Central London Elementary Accommodation
Review Committee addressing accommodation at Aberdeen,Ealing and Trafalgar Public
Schools.
Trustee Polhill expressed her appreciation and gratitude to the ARC members who served on the
committee.
The South Central London Elementary ARC Senior Administrative Response will be brought
fonward to the 2014 April 22 Board meeting.
b.South Central London Elementary Accommodation Review Committee -Minority Report
L. Di Girolamo presented a Minority Report of the South Central London Elementary
Accommodation Review Committee and responded to questions of clarification.
c.Final Report of the Board Agenda and Schedule Ad Hoc Committee
Trustee B.McKlnnon referred to the written report of the Final Report of the Board Agenda and
Schedule Ad Hoc Committee as attached (Item B)provided to Trustees in advance of the Board
meeting.
The following motion was moved by B. McKlnnon,seconded by S. Polhill and carried:
That the Board Agenda &Schedule Review Ad Hoc Committee be disbanded.
14.REPORT OF COMMITTEES -cont'd
d.Report of the Policy Working Committee,2014 February 25
Trustee McKinnon referred to the written report of the Policy Worl<ing Committee as attached
(Item C) and providedto Trustees in advance ofthe Board meeting.
The following motion was moved byB.McKlnnon,seconded byD.Clarkand carried:
That the Fundraising Activities and Donations for School Projects,Enhancements,
Equipment and Program policy be approved.
e.Report of the Special Education Advisory Committee,2014 March 4
Supt. R.Culhane referred to the writtenreport ofthe Special Education AdvisoryCommittee as
attached (Item D)and provided to Trustees in advance of the Board meeting.There were no
recommendations.
f.Report of the Chairs'Committee,2014 March 11
Chair Tisdale referred to the written report of the Chairs'Committee as attached (Item E)and
provided to Trustees in advance of the Board meeting.
The following motion was moved by T.Grant,seconded by G. Hart and carried:
That Trustee M.Reid and Trustee J.Bennett be appointed to the Naming Committee for
the French Immersion Elementary School at the current Ross School site.Chair R.
Tisdale will be available as an alternate.
g.Appointment to the First Nations Advisory Committee
The Board received con'espondence from the Chippewas of the Thames First Nation seeking
approval to appoint Michelle Burch as its'representatives on the Board's First Nations Advisory
Committee.The following motion was moved by M. Reid,seconded by B. McKlnnon and carried.
That Michelle Burch be appointed as Chippewas of the Thames First Nation
representative on the Board's First Nations Advisory Committee.
h.Report of the Committee of the Whole - in Camera,2014 March 25
Trustee Hart reported that the committee met in camera from 5:06 p.m. to 6:12 p.m.The
committee discussed confidential legal,property,and personal matters.
The following recommendation was moved by G.IHart,seconded by J.Todd and carried:
That the recommendation concerning a resignation by mutual consent be approved.
15.COMMUNICATIONS
a.ONTARIO PUBLIC SCHOOL BOARDS'ASSOCIATION (OPSBA)UPDATE
Trustee Grant advised that the Western Region meeting will be held on 2014 April 5 and the Board
of Directors meeting will be held May 2 &3.
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 8:35 p.m. on motion ofJ. Todd,seconded byJ.Coghlin.
Confirmed:
Chairperson
SUMMARY OF APPROVED RECOMMENDATIONS OF 2014 MARCH 25
- That the draftelementary and secondary 2014-2015school year calendars be approved forreferralto
the Ministry of Education.
- That the Naming Committeemembershipforthe elementary French Immersion Schoolat the Sir
George Ross site be approved.
-That the Board Agenda &Schedule Review Ad Hoc Committee be disbanded.
- . That the Fundraising Activities and Donations forSchool Projects,Enhancements,Equipment and
Program policy be approved.
-That Trustee M. Reid and Trustee J.Bennett be appointed to the Naming Committee for the French
Immersion Elementary School at the current Ross School site. Chair R.TIsdale will be available as an
alternate.
-That Michelle Burch be appointed as Chippewas of the Thames First Nation representative on the
Board's First Nations Advisory Committee.
-That the recommendation concerning a resignation by mutual consent be approved.
r
(Item A)
REPORT OF
The Soutii^Central London Elementary Accommodation Review Committee
Aberdeen,Ealing,Trafalgar PublicSchools
2014 February 26
.^CHAIRPERSON:Sheri Polhiii .,•..
Recommendations
In support of the Committee's mandate to respond to the SeniorAdministrationrecommendation,the South-
Central LondonElementary ARC:Aberdeen,Ealing,Trafalgar PublicSchoolsAccommodation Review Committee
approved the following recommendations on 2014 February 26.
1. That Trafalgar PublicSchool be renovated and enlarged to accommodate the student population of the
current Aberdeen,Ealing and Trafalgar PublicSchools in the South-Central London Elementary ARC.
2. That the present boundaries for the three schools be consolidated into a single boundaryfor Trafalgar
Public School.
3. That Aberdeen and EalingPublicSchools close 2015 June 30 If renovations at Trafalgar PublicSchool can
be completed In time for pupils to be accommodated there effective 2015 September 1.
4. That appropriate municipal, health and social agencies be approached to determine their interest in
V.y participation in a community service hub at the renovated Trafalgar PublicSchool.
Background
Thames Vallev District School Board Senior Administrative Rationale for the South-Central London Elementarv
Accommodation Review
An examination of French Immersion and English programming,projected future pupil enrolments and the
available capacity in this region suggests that a review of Aberdeen,CC Carrothers,Ealing,Princess Elizabeth,
Tecumseh,and Trafalgar Public Schools is warranted at this time.It is proposed that:
a) The English attendance areas for CC Carrothers and Princess Elizabeth (Including Summerside HoldingZone)
be consolidated Into one attendance area with all English language pupils accommodated at Princess
Elizabeth;
b) CC Carrothers Public School be closed and converted to a single-track French Immersion Public School;
c) The current French Immersion attendance area remain as it presently exists and that pupils be
accommodated at CC Carrothers Public School;
d)Aberdeen,Ealing and Trafalgar PublicSchools be consolidated into fewer facilities and at least one of the
schools close;and
e)Tecumseh PublicSchool be Included as a possible option for accommodating English language students.
FDK capital funds would be utilized to accommodate FDK students in purpose-built classes at CC Carrothers
and Princess Elizabeth Public Schools.
(Annual Pupil Accommodation Report - 2012 November 20)
The eight Committee members,representing three school communities,met on the following dates:
Oreanlzational Meeting
May 21,2013
Public Consultation Meetings
September 18,2013
October 23,2013
December 4,2013
January 8,2014
The Committee complied their draft recommendations on 2014 January 22. A meeting was scheduled for 2014
February 26 for input to the Draft Report.
Representatives of the Thames Valley District School Board Included Trustee S.Polhill who chaired over the
meetings.Administrative support was provided byJ.Thorpe,Executive Member;K.Dalton,Associate Director,
Learning Support Services;K.Wilkinson,Superintendent of Student Achievement;K.Bushell,Executive Officer,
Facility Services&Capita!Planning;K.Nuckowski,Supervisor,Learning Support Servicesand Principals C.Kissau,
Aberdeen PS;M.Tamasi,Haling PS;K.McCormick,Trafalgar PS.
Duringthe course of its meetings,the Committee considered,discussed and investigated the benefits, issues,
concerns and considerations ofthe Administrative recommendation. The Committee receivedtwo group public
presentations.
Communication/Consultation
The Committee members informed and consulted their respective communities as follows:
2013 April 25- Letterswere sent to ali families ofAberdeen,Ealing and Trafalgar Public Schools providing them
with the Informationregardingthe ARC process,listing the Organizational Meetingdate and locationand
providinga website linkto future information with regard to the publicInput meetings.
Monthly schoolnewsletters and website links included remindersabout upcoming ARC meetings.
The Committee received and/or examined:
1.Policy and Procedure:Pupil Accommodationand Facility Organization.
2. School Information Profileand Definitionsfor Three Study Area Schools.
3. Presentation by K.Bushell,Executive Officer,Facility Servicesand CapitalPlanning reviewing the school
information profiles.
4. Thames Valley DistrictSchoolBoardSafeSchools: ElementarySurveyfor schools involved inthe ARC.
5.EQAO Results 2011-12 and 2012-13 for schools involved In the ARC.
6.Enrolment Projections Three Study Area Schools.
7.Current Boundaries for Three Study Area Schools.
8.Attendance Area Breakdown/Walking Distances for all schools Involved in the ARC.
9.Southwestern Ontario Student Transportation Services Policies and Procedures for Distance to School to
Qualifyfor Transportation,Primary Address,Hazard Designations and Duration of Bus Ride.
10.Program Benefits of a Larger Elementary School.
V,11. Tours of each of the schools involved were arranged prior to the start of the meetings which were
rotated among the three schools Involved in the ARC.
12.Tour of Lester B.Pearson School for the Arts 2013 December 4.
Senior Administration's Recommendation
Senior Administration recommends that:
1.Aberdeen,Ealing and Trafalgar Public Schools be consolidated into fewer facilities and at least one of the
schools close;and
2. Followingan attendance area review,which Is to be a part of this ARC process,Aberdeen,Ealing and
Trafalgar Public Schools students be accommodated at the remaining facilities as of 2015 September 01;
3. The school(s)close and be declared surplus as of 2015 June 30.
Attendance areas and boundary scenarios were handed out to committee members for examples of enrolment
numbers and moving boundaries.
Committee Membership
Trustee Chair-Sheri Polhill
Executive Member-John Thorpe
ARC Assistant - Kelly Nuckowski
Principals:
Aberdeen Public School - Cindy Kissau
Ealing Public School -Mike Tamasi
Trafalgar Public School -KellyMcCormIck
School Council Parents:
Aberdeen Public School -Janine Shepherd
Ealing Public School - Louise DIGirolamo
Trafalgar Public School ~Darryl Bedford
Citizen Representatives:
Aberdeen Public School-Kevin Brooking
EalingPublic School-Stephanie Renaud
Trafalgar Public School-Wanda Armstrong
Community Representative;Tanya Park
Municipal Leader:Bud Polhill
REPORT TO:BOARD X Public In Camera
COMMITTEE Public In Camera
PRESENTED FOR APPROVAL
SUBMITTED BY:J.Bennett.Tnjstee SIGNATURE:
Date of
Meeting:
Item #:14.c
SUBJECT: FinalReport ofthe Board Agenda &Schedule RevlewAd'HocCommittee
2014 March 25
RECOMMENDATIONS:That the ,Board Agenda &;Schedule Review Ad Hoc Committee be disbanded.
Purpose To report on the activities and recommendations of the Board Agenda &Schedule Review Ad Hoc
Committee.
Content At the 2013 May 14 Board meeting Trustees approved the establishment of an ad hoc committee to
review the Board meeting agenda and schedule.At the 2013 June 11 Board meeting Trustees J.
Bennett,T.Grant,R.Tisdale,B.McKinnon and S. Polhlll were appointed to the committee.At the
2014 January 14 Board meeting Trustee G. Hart was appointed to the committee.The committee
met between November 2013 and February 2014.
The committee determined that the agenda and schedule would remain the same.Measures to
manage the length of meetings were discussed with the following recommendations:
•Chairs'Committee regularly will review the schedule of Administrative Reports and Presentations
to ensure agendas are balanced.
•Chairs'Committee will schedule Information Committee of the Whole meetings on the first
Tuesday of the month to receive Information as required.
•Administrative Presentations provided for general information will be limited to 15 minutes as
appropriate.
•The presentation of Administrative Reports generally will highlight key aspects of the report;
Trustees will be expected to have read the full report in advance of the meeting.
The committee suggests that reports brought forward with recommendations be received at one
meeting,and debated and decided upon at the subsequent meeting.In terms of process,when the
report Is received only questions of clarification may be asked.At the subsequent meeting the
recommendation(s)in the report are then put on the floor to be moved and debated under Business
Arising from the Minutes.The intent is to provide an opportunity to consider the recommendation(s)
more fully.The committee recommends that this be the normal practice.It would be the exception
that motions are made,debated,and decided upon at the same meeting the report is received.
The committee recommends that Questions and Comments by Members be added as a standing item
on the in-camera agenda.This would provide an opportunity for Trustees to raise system-wide
Important Issues.It was recognized that discussion needs to be limited to personal,legal,property,or
negotiation matters.
Having completed its mandate.Itis recommended that the ad hoc committee be disbanded.
Cost/Savings n/a
Timeline Immediate
Appendices None
Relation to Commitments:
• Putting students first.•Actively engagingour students,staff, familiesand communities.
• Recognizingand encouraging leadership in allits forms. • Beinginclusive,fair, and equitable.
• Ensuringsafe, positive learning and working environments.D Inspiring new ideas and promoting innovation.
lEI Taking responsibility for the students and resources entrusted to our care.
REPORT OF THE POLICY WORKING COMMITTEE 2014 February 25
3:33 p.m. to 5:09 p.m.
MEMBERS ADMINISTRATION AND OTHERS
T.Grant (Chair)J.Pratt {-3:55)(+4:16)
J.Bennett K.Bushell (+3:52)
D.Clark K.Aitken
M.Raid P. Martin (+3:42) (-3:52)
B.McKinnon K.Young (+4:03)
R.Tisdale (+3:45)
Visitor:A.Morell
1.APPROVAL OF AGENDA -The agenda was approved on motion.
2.CONFLICTS OF INTEREST -none declared
3.COMMITTEE REPORT OF 2013 NOVEMBER 26 AND 2014 FEBRUARY 25 TRACKING SHEET
The Committee report of 2013 November 26 and the 2014 February 25 tracl<lng sheet were
provided for information.
it was requested that Equity and Inclusive Education iens be considered when updating policies
and procedures.It was agreed that K. Aitken would follow-up with the appropriate departments
relating to the Criminal Background Check -Volunteers Independent Procedure and Emergency
Policy and Procedure to bring forward for review.
4.POLICY/PROCEDURE -TO COMMITTEE FOLLOWING PUBLIC INPUT
a.Fundralsing Activities and Donations for School Projects,Enhancements,Equipment
and Program Policy and Procedure
Associate Director J.Pratt and Exec.Officer Bushell joined the meeting to review the
Administration's recommended revisions to the Fundralsing Activities and Donations for School
Projects,Enhancements,Equipment and Programs procedure following public input.Further
changes were noted and addressed for clarification.
Exec.Officer Bushell noted that major concerns identified were addressed.He acknowledged
Home and School Association Co-Chair A.Morell and the input provided by the various parent
groups.
The following motion was moved and carried:
That the Fundralsing Activities and Donations for School Projects,Enhancements,
Equipment and Program policy be approved.
The recommendation will be forwarded to the 2014 March 25 Board meeting.
The following motion was moved and carried:
That the Fundralsing Activities and Donations for School Projects,Enhancements,
Equipment and Program procedure be approved and fonA/arded to the 2014 March 25
Board meeting for information.
5.DRAFT POLICIES/PROCEDURES-none
6.DRAFT POLICIES/PROCEDURES REQUIRING ADDITIONAL CONSIDERATION -none
7.POLICIES/PROCEDURES UNDER REVISION
a.Attendance Support Program
Manager P.Martin joined the meeting to present the Attendance Support Program procedure
for Information.
On motion,the committee moved in camera at 3:43 p.m. to discuss legal matters,reconvening
in public session at 3:51 p.m.
The changes In the procedure were highlighted. Associate DirectorPratt acknowledged
Manager Martin for his work throughout the process.
The following motion was moved and carried:
That the Attendance Support Program Procedure be approved and fonwarded to the 2014
March 25 Board meeting for information.
8.DRAFT/APPROVED POLICY/PROCEDURE REQUIRING FURTHER CONSIDERATION -none
9.OTHER BUSINESS-none
10.DATE AND TIME OF NEXT MEETING
The next meeting was scheduled for Tuesday,March 25,2014 In the Governor Simcoe Room.
11.ADJOURNMENT
The meeting adjourned at 5:09 p.m. by motion.
RECOMMENDATION:
1.That the Fundralsing Activities and Donations for School Projects,Enhancements,
Equipment and Program policy be approved.
TRACY GRANT
Committee Chairperson
REPORT OF THE SPECIAL EDUCATION ADVISORY COMWIITTEE
2014 March 4
12:21 p.m.-2:10 p.m.
MEMBERS ADMINISTRATION AND OTHERS
EasterSeals Society,A.Morse (Chair)R.Culhane,Superintendent of Special Education
AssociationforBrightChildren,Dennis Ensing D.Willaert,Learning Supen/isor
Autism Ontario,B.Curry M.Chevalier,Elementary Principal
Chippewas ofthe Thames, C. Dendias K./ytken,CorporateServices
Community Living EducationCommittee.S.Wilson D.Clarke,Secondary Prindpal
EpilepsySupport Centre, B.Harvey S.Nugent,Learning Coordinator
Learning DisabilitiesAssociation of Ontario,T. Fawdry
Thames ValleyChildren'sCentre, J. Gritzan Guest: T.Smith,OntarioParents Advocating for Children
Trustee J.Bennett with Cancer
Trustee R.Campbell
Thames Valley Coundl of Home and School, A Morell(+1:20)
Regrets:
Children's Aid Sodety of London and Middlesex, M.Cvetkovich
Trustee T.Grant
Voice for Hearing Impaired Children,M.Barbeau
Absent:
FASD E.LM.O.,W.Conforzi
Vanier Children's Sen/ices,B. Montminy
1.CALL TO ORDER
Chair A.Morse called the meeting to order at 12:21 p.m. In the Elgin Room at the Education Centre.
She introduced and welcomed Tina Smith who joined the meeting as a guest and representative of
Ontario Parents Advocating for Children with Cancer.
2.CONFIRMATION OF AGENDA
The agenda was approved on motion and carried.
3.CONFLICTS OF INTEREST -none
4.MINUTES OF THE MEETING FROM 2014 FEBRUARY 4
The minutes were approved as printed.
5.BUSINESS ARISING FROM THE MINUTES OF 2014 FEBRUARY 4
a.PDT Video Subcommittee and Individual Education Plan (lEP)
Chair Morse advised that the PDT Video Subcommittee met last month following the SEAC
meeting to look at increasing the promotion of the videos.It was suggested SEAC use the article
on the PDT videos in the Fall Special Education newsletter.The article has now been modified
for a parent audience.
It was noted that Information vtnll be forwarded to Manager K.Young In Public Affairs to assist in
the promotion.Members are asked to continue their efforts to bring public awareness and
encourage participation in the online survey.
lEPs and parent engagement were the topics identified as SEAC goals for 2013-14.It was noted
that the group has only met twice and are unsure about how to proceed.It was suggested that
the topics be deferred to next year.
6.CORRESPONDENCE
The following correspondence was reviewed:
•Rainbow District School Board regarding the state of speech and language services for school-
aged children in Ontario and their success of their tri-ministerial pilot "Integrated Speech
Language Experience".
6.CORRESPONDENCE -cont'd
Chair Morse added that the Ministry of Education has announced that they are moving ahead with a
Special Needs Strategy.The goal is to Improve service experience for families in the following key
areas:
•Identifying kids earlier and getting them the right help sooner;
•Coordinating service planning;and
•Making supports and service delivery seamless.
Unfortunately,no further details on implementation were noted.
7.AT QUEST 2014 UPDATE
Learning Coordinator S.Nugent joined the meeting to present information on the recent Assistive
Technology (AT)Quest 2014 Conference (Appendix SEAC -1) held in February.She provided
background Information on the successful conference designed to build resilient learners and provide
a deeper understanding of the benefits to students using assistive technology in the classroom.
Research and Assessment will prepare a survey for teachers to complete on student use of assistive
technology in the classroom.
8.PPW1156 (SUPPORTING TRANSITIONS FOR STUDENTS WITH SPECIAL EDUCATION NEEDS
UPDATE)
Learning Coordinator K.Masson joined the meeting to present PPM 156 -Supporting Transitions for
Students with Special Education Needs (Appendix SEAC - 2)that sets out the requirements for
transition plans for students from Kindergarten to Grade 12.
A fulsome discussion ensued and questions of clarification were noted.
In response to a question,it was confirmed that the Board's practice prior to implementation was to
include the transition plan in a student's Ontario School Record (GSR).Each student has a unique
plan that outlines actions,roles and responsibilities.
Communication with schools and professional development with staff will be key for transition
planning to allow for consistency and accountability.
It was noted that the lEP template will include short and long term transition goals.
Members were asked to provide feedback on enhancing current practices and meeting the
expectations of PPM 156. A survey will be distributed to members by K.Aitken.Results will be
brought back to the Committee for review.
9.NEW BUSINESS
a.Special Education Update
Supt.Culhane provided an update as a result of the Special Education Retreat held in January.
Infonnation included:
Special Education data;
Current portfolios and supports in place for students;
Self-contained developmental education elementary and secondary classrooms;
Building staff capacity including staffing for students with mental health concerns;
Insight-a new assessment tool used to identify students wth a gifted exceptionality;
Working with Research and Assessment in areas including psychology and student
need/next steps;and
•Assistive Technology.
Supt.Culhane also advised that a Planning Committee currently is focusing on eariy intervention
and implementation for Full-Day Kindergarten students across the province using evidence-based
practices and Insight support.
9.NEW BUSINESS -cont'd
b.Special Education Plan Subcommittee
D.Ensing,T. Fawdry, A.Morse,J. Gritzan and T. Birch volunteered to form a subcommittee to
review the Special Education Plan due for submission to the Ministry of Education in June.It was
agreed that the SEAC Handbook currently available on the website needs to be updated during
the process.
10.FORUM:ASSOCIATION UPDATES
•Community Living London is hosting a free Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP)
Infonmatlon Session on 2014 March 27 from 7:00 -9:00 p.m.
Autism Ontario has limited spaces for the Life Skills Programme (March 10-14).
Learning Disabilities Association of Ontario has been funded for an online resource website to
support teachers.A representative will attend the April meeting to present "LD@schoor.
Trustee Campbell advised that ideal Way will host an all-lnclusive community celebration from
March 21-23.
Trustee Campbell advised that Edgar &Joes Caf6 opened in February at the Goodwill Industries
building at 255 Horton Street.
Trustee Campbell added that Clara's Big Ride will be held March 19 and World Down Syndrome
Day Is March 21.
March is Easter Seals month withfundraising and awareness for kids with physical disabilities.
The Paper Egg campaign is underway at participating retail outlets.The Easter Seals telethon
will be held on April 13.
11.2014-2015 SCHOOL YEAR MEETING DATES/TIMES
Tuesday,Septembers 11:45 am-03:00 pm
Monday,October 6 06:30 pm-09:00 pm
Tuesday,November 4 11:45 am-03:00 pm
Tuesday,January 6 11:45 am-03:00 pm
Tuesday.Febnjarv3 11:45 am-03:00 pm
Tuesday.March 3 11:45 am-03:00 pm
Monday.April 13 06:30 pm-09:00 pm
Tuesday,May 5 11:45 am-03:00 pm
Tuesday.June 2 11:45 am-03:00 pm
Monday.June 15 06:30 pm-09:00 pm
12.FUTURE MEETING DATES
Monday.April 07,2014 06:30 pm-09:00 pm
Monday,May 05,2014 06:30 pm-09:00 pm
Tuesday,June 03,2014 11:45 am-03:00 pm
Monday,June 23,2014 06:30 pm-09:00 pm
13.FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS
•lEP Report Summary (April)
•Alternative Education Update (Fall 2014 - K.Wilkinson)
•Integrated Transition Planning for Young People with Developmental Disabilities
•Parent PDT Video Evaluation (ongoing)
•Parent Reaching Out Grant Request (Annually)
•Suicide Risk Management
•Insight (May)
14.ADJOURNMENT
The meeting adjourned at 2:10 p.m.by motion.
RECOMMENDATIONS:NONE
ALISON MORSE
CHAIRPERSON
REPORT OF THE CHAIRS'COMMITTEE
2014 March 11
10:55 a.m.-12:45 p.m.
MEMBERS ADMINISTRATION AND OTHERS
R.Tisdale (Chair)
T.Grant J.Bennett L.Elliott S.Pullam
Regrets:G.Hart
1.APPROVAL OF AGENDA
The agenda was amended and approved by motion.
2.CONFLICTS OF INTEREST -none declared
3.REVIEW AND APPROVAL OF MARCH 25.2014 BOARD AGENDAS/REVIEW OF
SCHEDULED BOARD PRESENTATIONS/REPORTS
The in-camera and public Board meetings for 2014 March 25 were discussed and amended.
4.CORRESPONDENCE -none
5.STRATEGIC PLANNING -none
6.BOARD MEETING VIDEOS -AODA/RETENTION CONSIDERATIONS
Director Elliott indicated that new AODA requirements will require that the Board provide verbatim
transcripts of all archived videos upon request.An update will be provided when additional
information is received.
7.IN CAMERA
On motion,the committee moved in camera at 11:30 am to discuss personal matters and
reconvened in public session at 12:15 pm.
8.MINISTRY GSN-BOARD ADMINISTRATION AND GOVERNANCE
Director Elliott shared that there may be potential changes to the Board Administration and
Governance grant through GSN funding. It is likely that the Ministry will not release specific
information to boards until the release of GSN's In late March.
g.OTHER BUSINESS
a.NAMING COMMITTEE REPRESENTATIVES-ROSS SCHOOL SITE
The following motion was moved and carried:
ThatTrustee M. Reid and Trustee J.Bennett be appointed to the Naming
Committee for the French Immersion Elementary School at the current Ross
School site.Chair R.Tisdale will be available as an alternate.
b.MUNICIPAL MEETINGS
Municipalities will be contacted and asked to provide agenda Items for upcoming annual
spring meetings.Trustees will also be asked to provide any specific agenda items for these
meetings.Potential dates and times will be considered and communicated in advance.
10.FUTURE MEETINGS
The following Committee meetings were scheduied In the Governor Simcoe Room:
•Tuesday,April 01 1 pm
•Tuesday,April 15 12 pm
•Tuesday,May 06 12 pm
•Tuesday,May 20 12 pm
•Tuesday,June 03 5 pm
•Tuesday,June 17 12 pm
11.ADJOURNMENT
The meeting adjourned at 12:45 p.m.by motion.
RECOMMENDATIONS:
1.That Trustee M.Reid and Trustee J.Bennett be appointed to the Naming
Committee for the French Immersion Elementary School at the current Ross
School site.Chair R.Tisdale will be available as an alternate.
R.Tisdale
Chairperson