5/26/1998 - Regular Board MeetingTHAMES VALLEY DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD
REGULAR MEETING,1998 MAY 26
The Board meets in regular session on the above date inthe Board Room at the
Education Centre,meetingInCommittee ofthe Whole,incameraat5:00p.m.,followed
bya public session at 7:00 p.m. The following are in attendance:
H.Wice,Chairperson
P.Smith
P.Jaffe(+7;C0)
R.Vaughan
C.Nurse
also:
J. Laughlin
P.Askey
T.Anderson
S.Westaway
P.Gryseels
B. Bryce
B.Greene
G. Hart (+5:12)
R.Elm
J.Hunter (+7:00 -10:30)
J.Bennett (+5:12)
D.Varnell
L.Peck
T.Veenstra
G.Treble
I.Jenkins
P.Mennlll
R. Murray
D.Stewart
S.Peters (+5:07)
B.Brock
M.Metras (-10:30)
J.Malfara
J.McKenzie
R.Neatby
P.Dunn
S.Christie
A.Hogg
W.Scott
BRICK STREET P.S.JUNIOR CHOIR
The appreciation of the Board Is extended to the students of BrickSt. P.S.Junior Choir
(London),conductor Janice Sinker,assistant Susan Turner,and accompanist Patricia
Wormington, for leading In the singing of "O Canada"and bringing musical
presentations.
CANADIAN OPEN MATHEMATICS CHALLENGE
Congratulations are extended to James Thorns,a student at Lucas S.S.,who is one of
the winnersofa provincial goldmedal inthe Canadian Open MathematicsChallenge.
James was ranked as one of the highest scoring students among the 3,250 contest
competitors,placing 68***acrossCanada. Jameswasalsooneofthetop 100 students
towriteInthe nationalMathematics Olympla and was placed 30"*.
ONTARIO FEDERATION OF HOME AND SCHOOL ASSOCIATIONS
CITIZENSHIP AWARDS
Congratulations are extended to the following students who received seven out of nine
provincial honours as winners of the Ontario Federation of Home and School
Associations'CitizenshipAwards fortheir grade level. The award recognizes students
fortheir outstanding leadership,congeniality, and contributions both Intheir school and
the community.
1998 Mav26...110
Student School
AdamWard(Grade 5)HarrisHeightsP.S.
MelissaRichter(Grade 8)Knollwood Park P.S.
Jenny Iran (Grade 9)MontcalmS.S.
Sherry-Anne Dreger (Grade 10)
Bobby Ross (Grade 11}
Charles Smith (Grade 12)
Eleni Cardabikis (OAC)
ONTARIO FEDERATION OF HOME AND SCHOOL ASSOCIATION
EDUCATOR OF THE YEAR AWARD
Congratulations are extended to John Thorpe,Principal at Clarke Road S.S. who isthe
OntariaFederation ofHome and School Associations'winner ofthe provincial Educator-
ofthe Year Award.John was recognized for his professional excellence,commitment
to the education of students,and his exceptional rapport with students,parents,staff
and community.
Chairperson Wice expresses thanks and appreciation to the representatives of the
Home and School Association for their outstanding contribution in supporting the
nomination process for students and staff.
CAHPERD 1998 DISTINGUISHED SERVICE AWARD
(The Canadian Association for Health,Physical Education,Recreation and Dance)
Congratulations are extended to David Service,teacher at Westminister S.S.recipient
of the CAHPERD Distinguished Service Award for 1998.The award is presented to
David for his outstanding professional contribution to CAHPERD for more than 10 years.
Chairperson Wice comments on the tragic automobile accident this past weekend that
claimed the lives of three young students and critically injured another young student.
An official statement will be recorded at the next regular Board meeting.
1998 May 26...111
52*A.No conflicts of interest are declared.
COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE
The Board moves into Committee of the Whole in camera,at 5:00 p.m. on motionof
Brock and Metras.
The Committee rises to report.
The Board resumes.
52-B.Report of the Committee of the Whole,1998 May 12
Members Administration and Others
H.Wice,Chairperson
P.Smith
R.Vaughan (+5:10)(-10:30)
C.Nurse
G.Hart
P.Jaffe
R. Elm (+7:00)
J.Bennett
S.Peters
B.Brock
M.Metras (-9:20)
Regrets:J.Hunter,D.Stewart
Reports:
I.No conflicts of interest were declared.
P.Gryseels
T.Anderson
P.Askey
B.Bryce
B.Greene
S.Westaway
D.Varneii
A.White
[.Jenldns
P.Mennill
R.Trahan
R.Murray
L.Peck
T.Veenstra
P.Dunn
R.Neatby
G.Owens
W.Lewis
J.Malfara
A. Hogg
E. Nelligan
The Committee met in camera from 5:00 p.m. to 6:15 p.m.and from 9:30 p.m.
to 10:40 p.m.and discussed confidential property,negotiable,personnel and
other matters.A recommendation on resignations by mutual consent was
reported out to the Board that evening.
The Committee met in public session from 7:00 p.m. to 9:20 p.m.
1998 May 26...112
4. Areporton the Holding Zone DesignationforCommunityPlanningAreas was
presented bythe Administration. Background information under Section B.2.6
of the School Accommodation Guidelines of the former Board of Education for
the Cityof London,a procedure forestablishing holding zones indeveloping
areas,was provided.This procedure occurred in new communities wliere
space was not available inthe neighbouring schools and as a result,students
were transported to holding schools outside oftheir neighbourhood.
The community planning areas of Stoney Creek, Uplands,Sunningdale,Fox
Hollow and River Bend were discussed as designated holding zones for
elementary accommodation and priortodevelopment,the need forappropriate
holding schools should be designated.Preliminary projected densities and
population figures for these areas were presented along with projected
elementary student population.
Itwas ad\^sed that the former Board of Education for the Cityof London at its
meeting of 1990 February 20,designated the area known then as the Hylands
Development as a holding zone for elementary school accommodation and
LomeAvenue P.S. was named as the holdingschool for grades JK to grade 6.
The Hylands development didnot proceed at that timeand as a result,students
have not been accommodated to date at Lome Avenue P.S.
Since the approval of Lome Avenue P.S., a number of specialized programs
have been added to the school such as Vanler classes,Adult E.S.L.
programming and Special Education classes,which has reduced available
space.The next closest facility with available space to the Hylands
Development Is Ryerson P.S.The history of enrolment at Ryerson P.S.has
been one of decline from a student population of 419 in 1993-94 to the current
figure of 365.
The Uplands Community area was also discussed and is anticipated to begin
development within the next year or two. This area Is in close proximity to
Centennial Central P.S. The neighbouring school of Jack Chambers P.S.is at
capacity with three portables and will not be able to accommodate any
additional students from this development.The designation of the Uplands
Community Area as a holding zone,with the close proximityof Centennial
Central P.S.,wilipemiit the accommodation of students.Ahistory of enrolment
for Centennial Central P.S. and a projected enrolment was included for
information.
(see recommendations 1,2,3,4,and 5)
1998 May 26...113
5. The Administrationprovided a report concerning Program Services Update as
follows:
a)French Core;French Immersion
Purpose:
The equity of access to program services and consistency within the
Thames Valley District School Board regarding French Core and
Immersion programs were reviewed.To ensure that maximum grant
revenues are achieved for French Core and French Immersion programs,
student instructional time will be adjusted to meet the Ministry funding
requirements.The time allocation change will provide for instructional
time to focus on implementation of the new Science and Technology
Curriculum for early years (Grades 1-3).
Content:
Two of the former Boards'scheduled instructional time In early years
(Grades 1-3)was for 2Q minutes daily with grade 4 scheduled time of 30
minutes daily. A reallocatlon of 100 minutes per five days will assist
classroom teachers as they implement the new Science and Technology
Curriculum expectations in Grades 1-3.
The adjustment to an additional 10 minutes dally of French Instruction at
Grade 4 will comply with Ministry expectations for time and will achieve
additional funds through grant revenue for classrooms under the new
student focused funding model.Grade 4 students already have scheduled
time for Science and Technology implementation.
Adjustments in time allocations for French Immersion will achieve
maximum grant revenue for the program without major expenditures for
resources.Itis expected that a further adjustment for September 1999
may take place after consultation with communities served by some
French Immersion programs.
New French Immersion programs are not being recommended at this
time although future study may change plans for 1999-2000.The timeline
would be 1998 September 01 and the cost/savings would be revenue
fromthe grant compliance inthe amount of approximately $30 000.
(see recommendations 6 and 7)
1998 May 26...114
b)Environmental Services
Purpose:
To confirm continuation of program sendees offered at fourenvironmental
sites (one lease renewal is due in the near future).Access and
information to programs by all students must be made available to
schools priorto 1998 June 30. Earlyapproval of lease arrangements and
staff allocation will assist with planning, program implementation and
school communications.
Content:
Three ofthe former boards have had environmental sen/ices programs.
One Board has used field trips to local consen^ation areas.The
environmental services naturalists have acted as resource persons to
-teachers with planning classroom and outdoor activities related to
curriculum.
The field naturalists'expertise,in conjunction with conservation area staff
and teaching staff, will strengthen the focus on the Science and
Technology curriculum to be implemented 1998 September 01.
Assumptions made from previous Boards'budget deliberations continue
to include the following:
School or parents pay for bus costs
Fund raising by students,staff,community and corporate sponsors
is encouraged
User fees will be set forprivate and coterminous schools who access
the facilities
All Thames Valley District School Board staff and students have
access to programs
Additional staff of 0.5 is requested and the land lease costs to continue
at approximately $40 000. (1997-98 budget) with a timeline of 1998
September 01.
(see recommendations 8,9 and 10)
c)IVIedia/LIbrary Services
Purpose:
To worktoward equity of access to deliveryof services to schools which
will first require centralization of resources for the purposes of
cataloguing, organizing and monitoring of distribution patterns.As
technological tools enable better connectivity throughout the district,
resources will be availabie by direct on-line or wireless transmission.
1998 Mav26...115
r
I
The decentralization of resources and materials will be phased in as
budget permits. Byorganizing short and long term implementation
plans, effectiveand efficient Media/Library Services to schools and the
corporation wll be provided.
Content:
System resources and services purchased to support classroom learning
are located currently at four locations.By combining resources at one
location, bycreating a union catalogue ofallinventory and bycirculating
resources to all schools,it is expected that duplication-of licenses and
material purchases will be avoided.It Is also expected that wider
circulation of resources will ensure increased use of materials purchased.
Professional Library and Research Services will be combined and
enhanced through on-line access as connectivity improves throughout
the'system.Loan services for videos,kits and equipment will be
centralized for the first phase of the reorganization of materials and
services.Cataloguing of all inventory and circulation tracking willalso be
centralized.Videography Services will be relocated with Technical
Services and both services will continue to provide corporate public
relations functions.
While materials and resources can be combined at one location,it is
important for school staff to have access to teacher production materials
such as laminating and letter making withinthe community.It Is intended
to support teacher production of materials through decentralizing
resources and allow accessibility within the local school communities.
'The timeline will be between June and September,1998 and details will
be provided through the Directorregarding the cost/savings ofrelocation
expenses,licensing and purchase savings.
(see recommendations 11,12)
6.Chairperson Wice provided an update regarding the debenture issue and
meetings with MPP's.
Meetings with Ministryof Education and Training staff and other school board
representatives,resulted inthe Ministry indicatingthat funds wouldbe provided
to cover the debt costs for construction of schools that had been previously
caught In the provincial funding moratorium.
A meeting also occun'ed with local MPP's and Board staff during which the
Administration provided an oven/iew and rationale of the Transition Grant
application,and responded to questions forclarification.The MPP's requested
that meetings with the staff continue on a regular basis.
1998 Mav26...116
7.Trustee Bennett provides a tol<en of appreciation tothe Board on behaif ofThe
Ontario Federation of Home and School Associations'Conference Committee,
forthe Board's support at the annual conference held in London,April 1998.
Recommendations:
1.That the Community Planning areas of,Stoney Creek, Uplands,Sunningdale,
Fox Hollow and River Bend be designated as Holding Zones for elementary
accommodation and that prior to development,appropriate holding schools be
designated.
2. That the current HoldingZone of Hylands be designated to Ryerson P.S. for
elementary school attendance.
3.That the Community Planning Area of Uplands be designated to Centennial
Central P.S.for elementary school attendance.
4. That the current area known as Uplands be designated to Centennial Central
P.S.and that all new students attend Centennial Central P.S.,and that those
students currently registered at Chambers P.S. from this area and who are
receiving transportation be permitted to continue at Jack Chambers P.S. with
transportation through to the end of grade 8.
5. That the Administration include in future discussions the idea of community
centres with schools being part of them,and report to the Board on discussions
and possible proposals on this concept in the fallof 1998.
6. That instruction In Core French of 40 minutes daily begin at Grade 4 in all
Thames Valley District elementary schools effective 1998 September 01.
7.That instruction for French Immersion be scheduled for a minimum of 155
minutes dailyin Thames ValleyDistrictschools offeringthis program, effective
1998 September 01.
8.That current Environmental Services programs at Community Education
Centres of the Thames Valley District School Board be accessible for all
students.
9.That,subject to budget approval, an additional 0.5 naturalist be hired.
10.That notice to continue the lease agreement with Victoria Hospital for
Westminster Ponds site be given by 1998 June 30.
1998 May 26...117
11. That the following resources and services belonging to the Thames Valley
DistrictSchool Board be combined at one locationpriorto 1998 September 01;
-Loan Services
-Cat^oguing Services
-Videography Sen/ices
-Professional Library and Research Sen/ices
12.That the following resources and services belonging to the Thames Valley
District School Board be relocated to schools by 1998 September 1:
-Teacher Production Centres
H.WICE.
Chairperson
Amotion by Vaughan and Metras to amend recommendation 11 by changing the words
"one location"to read"the Wheable Centre"is adopted.
The report is received and recommendations 1,2,3,4,5,7,8,11 as amended,and 12
are adopted on motion of Nurse and Bennett.
Amotion by Metras and Vaughan to refer recommendation 6 to the budget process Is
defeated.
Recommendation 6 is adopted on motion of Nurse and Jaffe.
Amotion by Nurse and Jaffe that a letter be forwarded to the Ministerof Education and
Training and local MPPs,expressing concern that the new funding formula will hamper
the richness and diversify of programs Inthe Board (e.g..Core French Grade 1 - 3), is
adopted.
A motion by Brock and Peters to amend recommendation 9 by removing the words
"subject to budget approval'is defeated.
Recommendation 9 is adopted on a motion of Nurse and Bennett.
A motion by Smith and Hart to amend recommendation 10 to read That notice to
continue the lease agreement for up to five years with Victoria Hospital..."is adopted.
1998 Mav26...118
52>C Report of the Committee of the Whole,1998 May 26
Reports:
1.No conflicts of interest were declared.
2.'The Committee met in-camera from 5:00 p.m. to 6:17 p.m. and from 10:39 p.m.
to 11:20 p.m.and discussed confidential personnel,negotiable,property and other
matters.A motion to sit past 11:00 p.m.was approved.
3. A report on the reorganization of the Information Technology Services
department,Phase 1,was reviewed,(see recommendation 1,2,and 3.)
4. The Administrationreported that an analysis ofthe new fundingmodel indicates
thatasignificant reduction inthe complement of Educatipnal Assistants withinthe
former London Board is required.In the past,the former London Board has
provided Educational Assistants'iri areas no longergenerated bythe funding
model.
It is necessary under the Ontario Employment Standards Act to give notice to
employees who may be declared redundant Accordingly, on 1998 June 01,
notice of lay-off will be given to forty (40)Educational Assistants of the former
Board of Education for the Cityof London. Itis anticipated that the total reduction
of Educational Assistants may exceed this number. Therefore, it may be
necessary to issue additional layoff notices in 1998 September.
This reduction will result ina reduced levelof service currently provided to support
program initiatives in the schools.
5.The following motion was approved by the Board at its in-camera session,1998
May 12:
That the name of the new shared services facility IrT the Town of
Tiilsonburg be:The Livingston Centre."
6.The following motions were approved by the Board at its in-camera session,
1998 May 12:
That approval be given to proceed with the relocation of the CEC's and
with the disposal of the three former administration buildings of Elgin,
Middlesex &Oxford.
That the Board adopt a resolution that these properties are not
required for the purposes of the Board.
"That the Board adopt a resolution that the disposition of these
properties is a reasonable step inthe plan to provide accommodation
for pupils."
1998 Mav26...119
Recommendations:
1.That the following services become part ofthe Information Technology Services
department as soon as possible,but not later than 1998 August 01:
-audio-visual repair
-v^ord processing
2. That all audio>visual repair and computer repair services be cor^olldated at
Leathorne Street effective 1998 August 01.
3. That allaudio-visual repair and computer repair services be supervised by one
group leader effective 1998 August 01.
4. That, inconjunction v/ith the decision to place teacher librarians inthe "Elgin"
elementary schools,the school-based computer/librarytechnician positions be
declared redundant as of 1998 October 31.
5. That, inconjunction with recommendation 4 above, the number ofTechnical
Support Analysts for the CEC South be increased to six (6).
6. That the following probationary teachers be appointed permanent,effective
dates as listed:
ELEMENTARY NAME
CEC -EAST
Wendy Kaufman
Gary Stanton
CEC -CENTRAL
Mara Allan
Sandra Ayim*
Jeffrey Bain
Brian Bangs
Jane Barker
Rebecca Barber
Laura Barr
Shona Beattie
Susan Beck
Elaine Bois
Marilyn Bolger
Sara Boughner
Shelley Buchanan
EFFECTIVE DATE
1998 09 01
1998 09 01
1998 09 01
199810 01
1998 09 01
1998 09 01
1998 09 01
1998 0919
1998 09 01
1998 09 01
1998 09 01
199809 01
1998 09 01
1998 09 01
1998 09 25
1998 Mav26...120
CEC-CENTRAL
Colette Butchart 1998 09 01
Michelle Casimir 1993 09 01
Josephine Collison •]ggg 09 01
Julie Cosman 1998 09 06
Jennifer Crossan 1998 09 24
K.Stewart Dalrymple 1993 09 01
Heather Deckert 1993 09 01
Danial DiFebo 1993 09 01
Gwen Doxtator 1993 09 01
Pamela Dwyer 1998 09 01
Helen Fillipcic 1993 09 01
Christine Fisher 1993 09 01
Angela Fortin 1998 09 20
Jennifer George 1993 09 01
Murra/Girash-Bevan •]993 09 01
KristenGrant 1998 09 01
David Groppler 1998 09 01
Kathryn Hackney 1998 09 01
Karen Hills 1998 09 01
Susan Huston 1998 09 01
Wendy Inch 1998 09 01
Sarah Inwood 1993 09 oi
Colleen Kim 1998 09 01
Janet Laughlin 1998 09 01
Lynn Lavoie 1998 09 01
Patricia Jones 1998 09 01
Deryck Kissoondath 1998 09 23
Scott MacKay 1998 0918
Andrea Master 1998 09 Of
Michael Marquis 1998 09 01
Patricia McClure 1998 09 01
Mamie McCracken 1998 09 01
Kennth McLagan ^998 09 01
Bonnie Morgan 998 09 01
Cynthia Myers ''998 0901
Jean Anne Needham ^998 0617
Nolan ||9|09 01
Jill Osborns 19980901
R.Roman Ossowski 1993 06 02
Carolyn Oudyk 1993 09 19
Michael Palmer ^ggs 09 01
LynnPayen igg8 09 0l
Michelle Perkins
1998 May 26...121
CEC-CENTRAL
Sophia Pilitsis 1998 0910
Erin Porter
1998 09 01JasonPratt19980901
Cathy Prattas i ggs 09 01
Giovanna Pulitano 1998 0918
Scott Pun/is 1998 09 01
Laura Ravbar
Michael Ready ^ggg Qg
Judy Roper 1998 09 01
Tracey Rundle 1998 09 01
Margo Silke 199810 04
Tanya Sweeney
Mike Talt
Sheila Tayler
Todd Thompson ,
KimTindale 398 09 30MichelleTrample^ure ,ggg 09 01'
Ron Vandecasteele 'ZZZ
Christine Vivona
Tammy Waller-Gordon
Barbara Weber
Jennifer Weir laoonoon
Heidi Werner JoooSon?
Lisa Williams
Sheri-Lyn Willms 1998 09 01
Jennifer Young
Beth Zimmerman
CEC-SOUTH
Barbara Pretty 1998 09 01
Paula Smith 1998 09 03
Mary White 1998 09 01
CEC-WEST
Donna Buchanan 1993 09 01
Robbin Hewitt-Cooper 1993 09 01
Elly McAllister*1993 09 01
Jo-anne Schyvenaars*1993 09 01
SECONDARY CEC -EAST
Diana Haandrikman 1993 09 03
Stephan Pelland 1993 09 01
1998 09 01
199810 02
1998 09 01
1998 09 01
1998 09 01
1998 Mav26...122
CEC-SOUTH
AnnaCorrin 1998 09 03
Fiona Newman*1993 09 03
MichelleSafadi 1 ggg 09 04
CEC -WEST
Angela Bacon 1998 09 01
James Tennant 1998 09 01
*Indicates part-time assignment
7. That the following elementary teacher contracts be terminated effective 1998
August 31:
Sylvie Brissaud Monika Krysinska
Marine Gagnon Jacqueline Tamba
Sylvain Giroux GinetteVien
Note:LeConseil scolaire publicdudistrict Centre-Sud-Ouest (DistrictNo.58)has
requested that the Thames ValleyDistrictSchool Board terminate the contracts
of these six teachers as redundant to the system.This motion is also being
presented at their Board meeting this week as itis unclear at this time who has
responsibility for these staff members.
8.That the following teacher resignations to retirement under the mutual consent
clause be accepted effective 1998 May 31:
Colin Brewer Anne Reeves
Kenneth Foss Robert Shimer
Dave Luce Lynne St.Jacques
Roseann McKay
9. That the resignation toretirementofMargaret Hyde,elementary school Principal,
under the mutual consent clause be accepted effective 1998 September 30.
H.WICE,
Chairperson
The reportis receivedand the recommendationsare adopted on motionofSmithand
Bennett.
•-A-
\
1998 May 26...123
CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES
53-A.The minutes ofthe RegularBoard meeting,1998 April 28,are approved on
motion of Brocl(and Jaffe.
53-B.The minutesofthe Boardmeeting,1998 May 12,are approved on motionof
Brock and Jaffe.
REPORTS FROM THE ADMINISTRATION
Director's Branch
54-A. Director John Laughiin advises that a memorandum entitled, Investment in
Classroom Learning Materials,has been received from Dave Johnson,
Minister of Education and Training, and Veronica 1-acey,Deputy Minister
announcing additional funding for classroom materials.
The Director advises that the province has announced it will assume the
responsibilityfor'school boards'capital debt service costs over the next three
years. Headvised that following thisthree year period,school boards will be
able to indude these debt service costs in their annual calculation of funding
entitlement under the Pupil Accommodation Grant which will be reviewed
annually.
The Director reports that the layoff notices for 125 elementary and 327
secondary school teachers issuea earlier this spring have been rescinded.
The decision is due to a large number of teachers who have opted to retire
under the recently announced "85 Factor"amendments to the Ontario
Teachers'Pension Plan.He explained that the response to the Pension Plan
amendments willallow us to continue to employ our younger staff,but that the
loss of experienced staff remains a concern.The Director also advised that
despite the retention of these teachers and the expected growth in student
population,tfie number of classroom teachers and department heads will
decrease in September.The new Education Quality Improvement Act sets a
maximum average class size on a board-wide basis at 25 students in
elementary classesand22studentsin secondary classes.Figures indicate
a reduction of approximately 80 elementary and 136 secondary teachers will
occur.
The Director advises that a letter has been received ftom Don Varneli,
Associate Superintendent of Program Services,submitting his resignation to
retirement,effective 1998 August 31.Appreciation is expressed to Don for
his leadership,dedication and commitment to the students,staff and the
community during his thirty-two years of service.
The report is received on motion of Brock and Metras.
1998 I\/Iav26...124
Business Services
55-A.1998-99 Preliminary Expenditure Budget Process
The Administration provides the following overview of how the Board wiii
proceed with developing the 1998/99 budget on the Student-Focused
Funding model.
On 1998 March 31 the Ministry of Education and Training released the
Student-Focused Funding Modelwhich outlines how District School Boards
will receive their revenues in the future.The new funding model consists of
three major grants,a Foundation Grant,Nine Special Purpose Grants and a
Pupii Accommodation Grant.The Ministry also released at that time a Board
profilewhich was an expenditure projection based on 1997 estimates.The
technical paper whichwas released withthe newfundingmodelindicatedthat
Boards would be expected to submit their approved budgets hy 1998 June 15
to the Ministry of Education and Training.
Boards are awaiting a future technical paper with clarificationon many of the
components of the new funding model,including a revised timetablefor budget
approval.Although not official at this time, itis anticipated that the final new
funding model regulations and diskette will be released inearly Juiy and that
Boards would be expected to approve a budget by 1998 September 15.
These dates will be confirmed by the Ministryof Education and Training inthe
near future.
School Boards remain responsible for local dedsion-making and are
accountable to parents and ratepayers for budget decisions.The proposal is
that a comprehensive budget process for the 1998/99 school year be
diBveloped using the most current informationavailable on the new funding
model andbasedon program directions and resources available tobestmeet
students'needs.This budget process would lead up to the final approval as
required by the Ministry of Education and Training subject to whatever
deadlines are imposed on School Boards.
Proposed Budget Process
June 16 (Special Board Meeting) - Draft Preliminary 1998/99 Expenditure
Budget
Based on entitlements as per funding model formulas
Based on some basic assumptions
This would be a high-level,overview summary of expenditures similar to
the stub-year budget
Approval in principle
1998 Mav26...125
July
Projected releaseofthe final regulations related tothe Student-Focused
Funding Model including diskette
July/August
Finance to build the revenue budget based on the Student-Focused
Funding Model
September
Presentation of revenue budget based on the foundation grant, special
purpose grants and pupilaccommodation grants.
Analysis ofnew Ending mode!based onclassroom instruction andnon-
classroom
Analysis of revenues and expenditures
Recommendations from administration
Public meetings on revenue and expenditure budget
Detailed documentation from adminisb'ation
Final recommendations approved by Board
Submission to the Ministryof Education and Training
Note:These dates are tentative,subject to the Ministry timetable on budget,
which has not been released at this time.
The report is received on motion of Vaughan and Hart.
The meeting recesses at 9:30 p.m.and reconvenes at 9:45 p.m.
MOTIONS -NOTICE OF WHICH HAS BEEN GIVEN
56-A.None at tfiis time.
REPORTS OF COMMITTEES
57-A.Report of the Third Meeting of the Special Education Advisory
Committee
Members
1998 May 05,12:00 noon - 2:40 p.m.
Administration
and Others
J.Bennett,Interim Chairperson(-2:10)L.Shainline D.Varnell
C.Nurse L.Stevenson B.Merifield
B.Giuliano 0.Culver M.Worsiey
K.Sumnall 8.Ragobar V.Weil
A.Morse M.Tucl<er P.Toogood
0.Laine N.Gooding K.Heffernan
M.Crawford H.Mezon P.Paterson
C.Hawthorne (-2:35)E.Hagar 8.Huriey
J. Worthington (-2:25)R.Salazer
H.Wice (+1:05 -1:15)W.Scott
1998 May 26...126
Regrets:P.Gillis,G.Hart
Reports:
1.No conflicts of interest were declared.
2.Chairperson Bennett advised that Ken Sumnall,Parent to Parent for Down
Syndrome has submitted his resignation. Appreciationwas extended toKenfor
hiscontribution and dedication tothe needs of special education childrenduring
-the past ten years.Ed Hagar has been appointed as the new representative
for Parent to Parent for Down Syndrome;Wayne Parkington has been
appointed the alternate.
3. Carol Clarke, St.George's P.S.representative .to the Provincial Special
Education AdvisoryCommittee provided an oven/lew ofthe initiativescurrently
being considered.The AdvisoryCommittee was established bythe Ministry of
Education and Training to act as an advocate on the behalf of exceptional
childrenand to communicate the issues and challenges that communitySEACs
have identified.Copies ofa directory ofthe current membership ofthe Advisory
Council were distributed.
Copies ofa Provincial SEAC surveywere distributed.Members were requested
to provide their input into specific issues,practices and challenges that need to
be addressed in special education.Members were requested to submit their
responses to Carol Clarke, St.George's P.S.as soon as possible.
The next Provincial SEAC meeting is to be held 1998 June 19 and it was
suggested that a written summary of the meeting be provided by Carol Clarke.
4. Bob Merifield,Program Supervisor advised that Karen Bumstead,Ministry of
Education and Training,has been invited to the June meeting to give a
presentation pertaining toSpecial Education Grant Funding. Ed Brock,London
District Separate School Board,has been invited to participate in the SEAC
meeting.
5.Kyle Heffernan,Special Education Consultant provided information pertaining
to options available for enhancing the method of communication with SEAC
members through the use of the Internet.It was reported that effective 1998
September a SEAC web site may be established.Maintaining and updating the
website will be an issue that will have to be addressed.It was noted that
internet e-mail may be accessed now by members by providing their e-rnall
address to the Office of the Executive Secretary.
\
1998 May 26...127
6.Copies of the draft submission of Part 1 of the Annuai Report to the Minister of
Education and Training onthe Provision of Special Education Programs and
Sen/ices for 1998 were distributed.
Duringadiscussion period,Parti ofthe Plan wasreviewed and amended.The
Committee supported the submission ofPart 1 ofthe Annual Report tothe
Minister of Education and Training on the Provision of Special Education
Programs and Special EducationServices.
(see recommendation 1)
The process and timelines for harmonizing special education programs and
services across the system were also discussed.It was reported that a
Steering Committee Istobeestablished consisting offourrepresentatives from
SEAC,the Program Supervisor - Student Services, a special education
consultant from each of the four areas,and an elementary and secondary
principal.LindaStevenson,LynnShalnline,Colin Laineand Alison Morsewere
appointed to represent SEACon the Steering Committee.
7.The draft booklet entitled "Special Education:A Guide for Parents"was
presented.During a lengthydiscussion period,several amendments to the
draft document were suggested.The importance ofincludinga section Inthe
Guidespecificallyfor parents givingdirectionforpreparing forthe (PRC process
was emphasized.It was noted that the release of Regulation 305, may
necessitate further revision to the Parent Guide.
Additional suggestions to the draft Parent Guide are to be submitted to Bob
Merifield,Program Services before the June meeting.
8. Don Varneil,Associate Superintendent -Program Services,providedan update
ofthe relocationofspecial education programs, effective 1993 September,as
follows:
Program From To
Developmental Manor Highland Park Westminister Central
Developmental Wortley Road P.S.Princess Elizabeth P.S.
Junior Gifted Orchard Park P.S.University Heights P.S.
The Intermediate Gifted Program will remain at Orchard Park P.S.
9. Adraft report ofthe Pervasive Developmental Disorder Programming Proposal
was presented and received.
10.Don Varneil,Associate Superintendent -Program Services,advised that the
Information pertaining to the new funding model for special education Is
currently being analyzed and Isto be available as soon as possible.
1998 May 26...128
As a follow-up to a meeting heldwiththe Ministry ofEducation and Trainingon
1998 Apdl 30, examples of an Intensive Support Amount (ISA)Workshop
exercise to determine funding levels for students were distributed and
discussed.
11.Trustee CynthiaNurse chaired the remainder of the meeting in Chairperson
Bennett's absence.
12. Don Varnell,Associate Superintendent - Program Services,reported that
funding has been approved for the 1998 Summer School Program for
developmentally challenged students.It was noted tiiat the various
stakeholders continue to meet to consider an alternative mode! of delivery of
summer school programs forspecial needs students across the system.
13.The Committee met in Forum.-
Recommendation:
1.That Part 1 ofthe 1998 Reportto the Ministry of Educationand Trainingon the
Provision ofSpecial Education Programs and Special Education Services, be
approved.
J.BENNETT
Chairperson
The report is received and the recommendation adopted on motion of Bennett and
Smith.
57-B.Report of the Policy Working Committee,
1998 May 15,12:30 p.m. -220 p.m.
Members Administration and Others
C.Nurse,Chairperson T. Anderson
W.Brock (/^ril 20)(May 15,-2;16)p.Gryseels (April 20)
S Peters'^^^r".Vaughan (May 01)(May 15,-2:15)Jen^ns
H.Wice(May15)J.Bennett
P. Smith (April 20)
A.Hogg (May 01,May 15)
E. Nelligan
1998 Mav26...129
Reports:
1.The Committee met on 1998 April 20, May01 and May 15.
2. No conflicts of interest were declared.
3.At the May 15 meeting,the Item on Community Involvement Policy was
withdrawn.
4. On May 01 the Administration distributed a copyof Section 55 of Bill 160 and
Ontario Regulation 461/97,EducationAct,regarding Pupil Representationon
Boards. Atthe May 15 meeting,thisitemwas deferredtothe nextmeetingofthe
Committee,June 05.
5.Definitions for policy,procedures, and administrativepractises were discussed
at the April 20 meeting. Atthe May01 meeting the definitions were finalized,
(see recommendation 1)
6.Updates on the draft report on policy and procedures for Violence-Free Schools
were presented by the Administration on April 20 and May 01 and lengthy
discussions occurred.A draft of the policy was considered at ihe May 15
meeting and several changes were made,includinga title change:Safe Schools,
(see recommendation 2}
7.Discussions occurred at the April20 and May 01 meetings regarding students'
safe arrivalat school. T. Anderson,Superintendent ofTransitional Issues,will
present a report at the meeting on June 05.
8. P. Askey,Superintendent of Corporate Planning and Communications,provided
a reportat the April 20 meeting regarding the Chargingof ^es for Distribution
of Materials via Board courier.The Administration is recommending that a policy
be developed with respect to use of the Board's courier services by outside
groups,for introduction in September.Adraft policy will be submitted at a future
meeting of the Committee.
9.Participation at Board meetings by electronic means was discussed at the
meeting on ^ril 20 and a draft policy was provided.The Committee will
consider this information at the June 05 meeting.
1998 May 26...130
Recommendations:
1.That the following definitionsbe approved;
Policy: Agoverning plan or course ofaction developed bythe Board
of Trustees.
Procedure:Method,manner or sequence of steps forcarrying out policy.
---Practice:Established method,manner or action performed by staff
and/or administration.
Memorandum: Awrittencommunication of an action to be taken,process to
be followed, or an event to take place.
2.That the draft Policy on Safe Schools (see pages 132,133)be circulated to the
community and schools for input prior to 1998 October 01,and referred back to
the Committeefor final reviewbefore Board approval.
C.NURSE,
Chairperson
The report is received and the recommendations are adopted on motion of Nurse and
Jaffe.
A motion by Vaughan and Metras to amend recommendation 1 by adding the words
"direct Administration'and "developed by Administration to direct staff is defeated.
Amotion by Nurse and Jaffe to amend the reference section of the Safe Schools Policy,
recommendation 2, by adding the words 'Safe Schools Procedures"is adopted.
ADDITIONAL BUSINESS
S8-A.Received 1998 Aprii 26 from Darlene Parkington,President of Parent to
Parentfor Down Syndrome,advising that Ed Hager has been appointed as the
new representative on the Speciai Education Advisory Committee,fora three-
year period replacing Ken Sumnall.Wayne Parkington has been appointed
as the alternate.
Received and filed on motion of Brock and Jaffe.
1998 Mav26...131
COMMUNICATION
59-A.None at this time.
ADJOURNMENT
The meeting adjournsat 11:25 p.m.on motion of Elm and Stewart.
•CONFIRMED:^
Chairperson
1998 May 26...132
Thames Valley District School Board
Title SAFE SCHOOLS Policy No.
Department OPERATIONS SERVICES Status APPROVED
Reference{s)MINISTRY OF EDUCATION Effective Date 1999 02 23
VIOLENCE FREE
SCHOOLS POLICY 1994
The Boardiscommittedto supportinga system strategy forfosteringand maintaining
positivelearningenvironments and safe schools, and to that end expects schools to
developand maintain safe,positive learning environments thatare free from violence.
The Boardfurtherrecognizes its responsibility to meet the expectations ofthe Ministry
of Education Violence Free Schools Policy.
The Board's System Strategy shall include:
the Board Policy
School Plans to ensure safe,positive learning environments
Programs to support safe, positive learning environments and the
development of appropriate student behaviours
Support Sendees to assist schools to maintain safe, positive learning
environments
The Board further commits to ensuring that:
parents will be encouragedtoworkinpartnershipwith the schoolto develop
safe school environments, recognizingthat the implementationof any Safe
Schools Policymust be an ongoing process involving all partners within the
broader school community,and that such involvementofthe outside school
community at large resultsinpoliciesand practices that are acceptable tothe
school community.
the school environment is safe and welcoming inorder that learning can take
place,
violence prevention is included in all aspects of the curriculum from junior
Idndergarten to the end of secondary school,
1998 May 26...133
the system strategy will inciude both early and ongoing identification of
students at riskand the establishmentofappropriateformsof prevention and
inten/ention,recognizing that esuly identification of at risk factors that may
predispose a chiid to violent acts,will allow child,family and school an
opportunity to prevent violenceat its eariiest stage,
every elementary andsecondaryschoolhas a Codeof Behaviour approved
bythe Superintendent of Education that communicates to all members ofthe
school community the types of behaviour expected of them,
procedures are in place fordealing with the range of violent incidents that
could occur in the school environment,and that these procedures are
applicable toallstudents,staff,and visitors,andthattheyareexpectedtohelp
to preventrecurrence,thus making the schoolsafer,
shortand long termstrategies forvictim/witness support,as wellas perpetrator
re-entryprocedures following theoccurrencesofa violent incident areinplace,
reflecting consultation with administration,staffand the school community,
opportunities forail staffshall be provided to acquire the knowledge,skills and
values necessary todevelopand maintain aviolence-free school environment,
parents/guardians,students,staffandthe community shallbe involved inthe
development and implementation of the Safe Schools Policy at both the
systemandschoollevels,recognizing that preventing anddealingwith violent
and inappropriate behaviour must be a cooperative partnership, and that
everyone must communicatethat violence of any description will not be
tolerated In the communities and schools.
"Hie following documentsshouldbe readin conjunction with the Violence Free Schools
Policy.
Suspension Procedure
Expulsion Procedure
Procedures for Reporting ViolentIncidents to the Police
Record Keeping of Violent Incidents Leading toSuspension or Expulsion
Administered By Operations Board Resolution 32-B Rec.7
Services Date 1999 02 23
Date of Last
Amendment