4/27/1999 - Regular Board MeetingTHAMES VALLEY DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD
AGENDA FOR REGULAR MEETING,1999 APRIL 27
The Board meets in reguiar session on the above date in the Board Room at the Education Centre,
meeting in Committee ofthe Whole, in camera at 5:00 p.m. on motionof
followed by public session at 7:00 p.m.
O'CANADA -SPRIN6BANK P.S.PRIMARY CHOIR,WOODSTOCK
I
JOHN GUMMOW EFFECTIVE SPEAKING AWARD
OFFICIAL RECORD
50-A CONFLICTS OF INTEREST
CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES
51 -A Minutes of the regular Board meeting;1999 March 30
51 -B Minutes of the Board meeting,1999 April 13
REPORTS FROM THE ADMINISTRATION
52-A Director's Announcement
Departmental Updates
Timelines re:Accommodation Recommendations
53-A
54-A
55-A Update on Area Study Committee Reports
-Woodstock and Ingersoll
REPORTS OF COMMITTEES i
56-A Special Education Advisory Committee,1999 April06
56-B Special Education Advisory Committee,1999 April20
56-C Committeeof the Whole, 1999 April 13
;
I
56-D Committee of the Whole,1999 April27
S6-E Chairs'Committee
and
approve
approve
receive
receive
receive
receive
approve
approve
approve
approve
page 3
separate
separate
verbal
page 4-11
page 12
verbal
page 13-15
page 16-44
page 45-64
verbal
page 65
MOTIONS -NOTICE OF WHICH HAS BEEN GIVEN
57-A None at this time
ADDITIONAL BUSINESS
58-A Ontario Public School Boards'Association -Update verbal
COMMUNICATION
59-A Onyota'a:Ka Kalihuny NihtslaTehatilihutakwas approve page 66
59-B Ottawa-CarletonCatholic District SchoolBoard approve page 66
59-C Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board approve page 66
NOTICE OF MOTIONS
QUESTIONS BY MEMBERS
GOOD NEWS ITEMS -"Did you know..."
ADJOURNMENT
THAMES VALLEY DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD
REGULAR MEETING,1999 APRIL 27
The Board meets in reguiar session on the above date in the Board Room at the
Education Centre,meeting in Committee of the Whoie, In camera at 5:00 p.m. on
motion of Vaughan and Stewart,followed by a public session at 7:00 p.m.The
following are in attendance:
P.Smith,Chairperson
P.Jaffa
J.Bennett
W.Brock
also:
J.Laughlin
P. Askay
P.Gryseels
B.Bryce
B.Greene
C. Murphy
A.White
Regrets:J.Hunter, P.Schuyler
G. Hart (+5:18)
M.()4atras (+5:10)
C.Nurse
S.Peters
Q.Jazey
J.Thorpe
R.Trahan
R. Murray
G.Treble
L Peck
B.Beatty
H.Wice
D.Stewart
R.Vaughan (-9:07)
J.Neville
K.Bushell
R.Marifield
S.Christie
S.Galati
A.Hogg
E. Nelligan
SPRINGBANK P.S.PRIMARY CHOIR,WOODSTOCK
The appreciation of the Board is extended to the Springbank P.S.Primary Choir from
Woodstock,conductor Laura Doric and accompanist Brian George,for leading in the
singing of "0 Canada"and bringing musical presentations.
JOHN GUMMOW EFFECTIVE SPEAKING AWARD
Christy Grigg,student of Prince Andrew P.S.,Denfield, and Katelyn Squire,student of
Medway HighSchool, Arva,are recognized as winners ofthe John Gummow Award
for Effective Speaking.This award is presented to the highest ranked elementary
student and secondary student in Middlesex County schools.Appreciation and
congratulations are expressed to the students for their originality,and excellence in
effective speaking during their presentations to the Board.
OFFICIAL RECORD
We regret to record the death ofLeigh Cariisle,an Educational Assistant from Caradoc
South P.S.,Melbourne,on 1999 April 13.
1999 AorM 27..91
50-A.No conflicts of interest are declared.
CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES
S1-A.The minutes ofthe regular Board meeting,1999 March 30,are approved on
motion of Brock and Wice.
51 -B.The minutes ofthe Board meeting,1999 April 13,are approved on motionof
Brock and Wice.
REPORTS FROM THE ADMINISTRATION
52-A.Director's Announcement
Director J. Laughlin annourices that AI White,Superintendent of Education
at Community Education Centre East,Vbrlll retire effective 1999 August 31.
"AI began his teaching career in 1968 with the Scarborough Board of
Education.He joined The Board of Education for the CityofLondon in
1988,as Superintendent of Employee Relations.In 1992,he accepted
the opportunity to be the Superintendent of Schools for the areas of
Saunders S.S.',Westminster S.S.,Thames S.S.,and later South S.S.
and Laurier S.S.
"With amalgamation,he was asked to share the leadership of
Community Education Centre East with Catharine Murphy.Throughout
the transition,AI has made a tremendous contribution-that has helped
our Board meet its challenge of how it can best serve students.
"A!and his wife Marilyn will be worldng withthe KOC school inTurkey,
located near Istanbul. KOCis a private school with an enrolment of
1700 students.Al's focus will be a consultative role,assisting with
restructuring initiatives in the school.
"Appreciationis expressed to AI for his dedication and commitment to
the students,staffand the community,duringhis years withthe Board,
and best wishes are extended as he moves on to an exciting new
phase of his life."
The report is received on motion of Brock and Hart..
53-A.Departmental Updates
The Administration present departmental updates on the following Issues:
A
1999 April 27..92
Business Services
-Strathroy Multi-Use Project
- French Rrst Language Board - Legal agreements finalized
-Participation on BudgetTask Force CommitteewithASBO International
-1999/2000 budget process initiatedincluding salary and benefit costings
-Purchasing Card program implemented throughout the District
-Standardization of payrollfunctions continues
- Annual pension reporting process completed
-Implementation ofthe Facility Services Integrated Services Model
- School renewal projects/maintenance repairs/major capital additions
-Audit review team and process developmentto review allBoard facilities
- Drafttransportation policy and procedure developed
-Computerization/route optimization of transportation system - RFP
- New informationprovided to bus operators at April meeting
- Supply ManagementAVarehouse staff revising commodity areas
- Delivery routes for district being developed
Human Resource Services
-Implementation ofcommon benefits planeffective 1999 April 01
- Fiveemergency preparedness agreements tocounties and municipalities
- Emergency preparedness -woiltbooks -insen/ice training
- Merged secondary occasional teachers'listdistributed
'E.I.C.Progress Review (HRsection) distributed to all departments
-Teacher Recruitment -interviews conducted for French teachers
Operations Services
- School Improvement workshop forschool administrators
-Elementary teacher staffing allocation
-Secondary teacher staffing on holdpending outcome ofnegotiations
- Implementation of Student Administration System (SAS)
- Modified school year calendars
- Staff inservlce for Safe Schools policy/procedures scheduled in June
- Community meeting re: options tor closure of Chapel P.S.
Program Services
-Wide Area Network -deal finalized
- Draft Special Education Plan
-Secondary School Reform- training sessions organized
-Cooperative Education program harmonization
Ontario Curriculum Health and Physical Education
- London District Science and Technology Fair
-Science and Technology - units of study
- Mathematics -system committee to address "spiralling"
-Harmonization of Athletics extra-curricular programs
The reports are received on motion of Hart and Vaughan.
1999 AorH 27..93
54-A.Timelines Re:Accommodation Recommendations
As indicated in the district-wide Student Accommodation and Planning
Report, should the Board approve the recommendations presented in the
Committeeofthe WholeReport,1999 April 13,the following timelinesare in
place:
Issue
Additions to:
Oxbow P.S.
Masonviiie P.S.
F. D.Roosevelt P.S.
Enhancements to
Portapack and
Altering Boundaries
Strathroy DistrictS.S.
Area Study
Committees:
Northbrae
Dorchester
Woodstock
St.Thomas
Status
-planning has
commenced
- final report to include
costs,timing for
building, financial
arrangements
-enhancements
during summer
-community meeting
in fall
• final report to Board
-new school
dependent on
funding
-commence
immediately
- final report to Board
Timeline (on or before)
1999 November 01
1999 November 01
1999 November 01
The report is received on motion of Brock and Jaffe.
SS'A.Update on Area Study Committee Reports:
(a)Woodstock
On 1999 April 12,Trustees approved in principle the 9 recommendations
withinthe Report ofthe Woodstock Elementary School Area Accommodation
Study Committee,and directed Administration to report to the Board on 1999
April27,regarding implementation.
Since that time,the Administration has reviewed:
- The requirements of the Ministry of Education with respect to school
closure;
-Implementation of the Area Study Committee's recommendation.
1999 April 27..94
Witli respect to thie review of the Ministry of Education's regulations and
memorandum,itisthe opinionoflegal counsel that asmall technical problem
exists with the policy andtheprocedures accompanying the Board's "School
Accommodation Policy."Therefore, the policy should be amended as
recommended, and the procedures should be amended by adding the
following section:
"4.0 Identification of Schools for Closure
Where the Board has received a report or a recommendation which
identifies a school as a candidate for closure,a minimum of 3 months
shall elapse prior to the Board finalizing its decision with respect to
whether to close the school or not.
During this time period, the Administration will provide additional
information to ensure that the Board fi/embers have received in public
the following:
(a) a report on the effects of closure on community activities of a
social,educational,cultural, or recreational nature which takes
place on the school premises;
(b) a report on the effects of closure of a specific school on the
following:
the attendance area defined for that school;
attendance at other schools;
the need and extent of busing;
(c) a report and analysis of the implications for the program for
students both Inthe school under consideration for closing and in
the school(s) where programs may be affected by the school
closing;
(d) a report on the financialeffects ofclosingor notclosingthe school,
including any capital implications;
(e) a report indicatingthe possible alternative use ordisposition ofthe
school,if it is closed."
The Woodstock Area Study Committee identified Chapel P.S.as a school for
possible closure.This report was received bythe Board on 1999 March 02.
The earliest time the Board could adopt a motion for closure would be on
1999 June 02.
1999 April 27..95
The Administration is recommending that Chapel P.S. be closed, effective
2000 June 30, and a report addressing the implementationplans and the
informationthat was missing from the Area Study Committees in-order to
complywith the direction above, be dealtwithbythe Boardat itsmeetingon
1999 June 22.
(see recommendations 1 and 2)
Recommendations:
1.That the School Accommodation Policy,paragraph 2,be amended toinclude
the following sentence:
"Where the Board has received a report or a recommendation which
Identifies a school as a candidate for closure,a minimum of 3 months
shall elapse prior to the board finalizing its decision with respect to
whether to close the school or not."
2. That the recommendations approved inprincipledealing withthe Report.of
the WoodstockSchoolAreaAccommodationStudyCommittee, be forwarded
tothe 1999 June 22 meeting ofthe Boardforapproval (see item56-C,pages
117,118 and 120).
The report Is received and recommendation 1 is adopted on motion of Nurse and
Brock.
Recommendation 2 is adopted on motionof Brockand Wice.
(b)Ingersoll
The Administration reported that a community meeting was held on April26
to distribute information on three additional alternatives and input was
requested by May 19.The Administration willthen consider the information
provided in the Area Accommodation Study report,Trustee Peters'three
motions, and the input received,and prepare a report for presentation to the
Committee of the Whole on 1999 June 08, for final approval at the regular
Board meeting on 1999 June 22.
The report is received on motion of Brock and Peters.
56'A.Special Education Advisory Committee 1999 April 06
Report 12:15p.m.-3:10 p.m.
Members Administration and Others
J. Bennett, Chairperson J. Worthington P. Askey J. Book
C.Nurse L.Vince B.Merifield B.Connell
H.Wice E.Hager S.Peters M.Sharpe
M.Tucker N.Gooding B. Martin D.James
1999 April 27..96
A.Morse M.Crawford L.Silvert W.Scott
C.Hawthorne P.Gallin R.Salazer
C.Laine L Stevenson
L Shainline P.Gillis
G.McGahey
Regrets:R.Teichrob
Reports:
1.No conflicts of interest were declared.
2. The minutes of the 1999 March 02 meeting were reviewed.
3. It was reported that the Communication Sub-Committee did not meet during
March.Members were reminded to return their completed Communication Sub
Committee evaluation questionnaire today.
4.An update on the Secondary School Reform was provided.Inservice sessions
on the policy section have been completed.Train the Trainer sessions continue
this week and next, for the members ofthe Implementation Teams comprised
of five representatives from each secondary school.
5. A report from the Chair's Committee of the Board was presented pertaining to
the election protocols for the SEAC Chairperson position. Criteria for the
election of the Chairperson and Vice Chairperson of SEAC were considered.
Criteria pertaining to the terms of office were also suggested.The
Administration is to prepare a report to reflect the discussion.
6. An overview of the annual process for submitting the Report to the Minister of
Education and Training on the Review of the Provision of Special Education
Programs and Special Education Services,was presented.Copies ofthe draft
Special Education Plan were provided.In order to allow Members sufficient
time to review and provide input Intothe draft document,an additional meeting
of SEAC was scheduled for Tuesday,1999 April20.
7. An overhead presentation of the objectives of the Student Services
Harmonization Plan was provided.Copies of the presentation materials were
distributed.
A review of the programs and services provided by Student Services staff
together with a summary of information collated by the Program Action Team
was highlighted.The guiding principles,framework for implementation of
strategies,costs,timelines,and Student Sen/ice staffing options were reviewed.
Followinga question and answer period,the Committee supported that a report
be prepared on the deployment of Student Sen/ices staff for SEAC's advice
after the Board's 1999-2000 budget has been drafted.
(see recommendation 1)
1999 April 27..97
8. The Administration presented an update pertaining to the Draft Program
Services Harmonization Plan.
Achart of the current and proposed changes to the Harmonization Plan -
Elementary was distributed.Information regarding changes proposed as the
resultofthe consultation processand implementation strategieswas reviewed.
Itwas decided thatthe membershipofthe SteeringCommitteebe expanded to
include a broader representationof Learning SupportTeachers,Elementary
and Secondary Principals,Consultantsand speciaieducationstaff.
Thechanges tothe congregatedand itinerant programs,and the allocation of
Learning SupportTeachers werediscussed. Itwassupportedthatthe current
proposed level of Learning Support Teachersfor the 1999-2000 schoolyearbe
maintained as a minimum. It was supported that the expanded Steering
Committee look at the proposed changes to the Program Services
Harmonization- Plan and make recommendations for presentation at the
meeting on 1999 April20.
(see recommendations 2 and 3)
9.An update regarding the deveiopmental summer programswas provided.It
was reportedthatdiscussions with community stakeholdersare continuing and
thata numberofconcepts are beinginvestigated. Areportisto be providedat
the May meeting of SEAC.
10. Itwas suggested, that the Communications Sub Committee investigatethe
possibility of providing an Inservice session on the roleand responsibilitiesof
SEAC members.Eva Nichols,LDAO Legislation and Government Liaison
Consultant,was suggested as a possible facilitator.
11.The Committee met in Forum.
Recommendations:
1.SEAC recommends to the Boardthat Program Services staff prepare a report
on the deployment of Student Sen/Ices staff, for SEAC's advice, once the
Board's 1999-2000 budget has been drafted.
2. Thatthe numberofLearningSupport Teachers forthe 1999 -2000school year
be approved at the current proposed level, as a minimum.
"•a
s
J
1999 April 27..98
3. That the overall impact of the proposed changes to the Special Education
Harmonization Plan be referred back to[theexpanded Steering Committeefor
consultation with recommendations to be presented at the April20 meeting.
J.BENNETT,
Chairperson
The report is received and the recommendations are adopted on motionofBennett and
Nurse.
56-B.Special Education Advisory Committee
Report
Members
J.Bennett,Chairperson
C.Nurse
M.Tucker
A.Morse
C.Laine
J.Worthingtoh
R.Teichrob
L.Vince
N.Gooding
P.Gallin
L.Stevenson
P.Gillis
G.McGahey
1999 April20
12:15 p.m.-3:10 p.m.
Administration and Others
P.Askey
B.Merifield
B.Martin
E.Maybury
L Silvert
P.Paterson
S. Hurley
W.Scott
Regrets:H.Wice,E.Hager,C.Hawthorne,M.Crawford,
Reports:
1.No conflicts of interest were declared.
2.Concerns were expressed withan article that was published inthe London Free
Press on 1999 April 19,regarding special education classes and programs.It
was supported that a letter to the Editor be prepared by the SEAC and Board
Chairpersons,responding to inaccuracies Inthe article.
3.The expanded SEAC Steering Committee presented a report and
recommendations pertaining to the proposed changes to the draft Program,
Services and Harmonization Plan.Meetings were held on 1999 April08 and
April 14.
information was presented to ensure
the development and consultation
Atthe April08 meeting,the background
new committee members understood
process.The summary Informationof input received through the consultation
process together with recommendations and next steps were considered.A
revised planforthe allocation of special education staffwas also distributed and
discussed.
1999 April 27..99
Atthe April 14 meeting,a focusquestion,"What would ittake to be readyto
implement a specialeducationprogram delivery model for 1999 September?",
was considered. The changes tothe draftplan,tabled atthe April 6 meetingof
SEAC,were endorsed.Itwas recognized thatthe areas ofcommunication,staff
development and evaluation of program options for gifted, behaviour and
learningdisabled students, need to be addressed on an ongoingbasis.
The Steering Committee recommended that SEAC support the following
recommendations:
That the revised draft Harmonization of Programs,Services and
Placement Plan be accepted and recommended to the Board.
That a strategic planning process begin in Fall 1999,which includes the
development of a long-term vision for special education and the
evaluation and monitoring of the special education delivery model for
2000 September.
Appreciation was extended tothe members ofthe SEACSteering Committee.
The report was received and the recommendations supported.
(See recommendation 1 and 2)
4. The process for reviewing and revising the annual review of the Report to the
Ministerof Education and Training on the Review of the Provision of Special
Education Programs and Sen/ices (Special Education Plan)was discussed.
Portions ofthe draftSpecial Education Plan were reviewed (Chapters 3 and 9).
A draft summary of the suggestions willbe presented at the May meeting of
SEAC.
During the review,itwas emphasized thatthe statement ofphilosophy(section
9.1) which includes the mission and belief statement should appear at the
beginning of the plan.
5.Itwas noted that the information regarding the deployment of Student Services
staff will be considered when the 1999-2000 budget has been drafted.
6. It was reported that Brian Greene,Executive Superintendent of Business
Services,has been invited to the meeting of 1999 May 04 in order for SEAC to
provide input into the 1999-2000 budget and to hear of the budget timelines
from Superintendent Greene.
Recommendations:
1.That the draft Harmonization of Programs,Services,and Placement Plan,as
presented,be approved.
1999 April 27..10Q
2. That commencing Inthe Fall of 1999,a strategic planning process beginthat
includesthe development of a long-termvisionforspecial education and the
evaluation and monitoring of the special education delivery model for 2000
September.
J.BENNETT,
Chairperson
The reportis received and the recommendations are adopted on motionofBennett
and Wice.
Trustee Vaughan is absent during voting.
56*0.Report of the Committee of the Whole 1999 April13
Members Administration and Others
P. Smith,Chairperson J.Laughlin G.Treble
P.Jaffe P. Askey
L Peck
R.Vaughan P.Gryseeis J.McKenzie
S.Peters B.B^ryce S.Galati
P.Schuyler B.Greene G.Owens
Q.Hart C.Murphy K.Bushell
J.Bennett A.V^ite J.Bechard
J.Hunter (+5:10)
G.Jazey S.Christie
H.Wice J.Thorpe D.Williams
D.Stewart P.Mennill J.Miller
C.Nurse R.Trahan A.Hogg
W.Brock J.Empringham "E. Nelligan
M.Metras
Reports:
1.No conflicts of interest were declared.
2.Tlie Committee met in camera from 5:00 p.m. to 5:50 p.m.and discussed
confidential legal,property,personnel and other matters.
3.The Committee met In public session from 7:00 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.
4. On 1999 March 02, the Elementary School Area Accommodation Study
CommitteeReports forWoodstock,South St Thomas, and Ingersoll,and the
Student Accommodation and Planning Report were presented to the
Information Committee of the Whole.
The Student Accommodation and Planning Report Included the following
introduction and background information.
1999 April 27..101
Introduction:
While schools are much morethan just bricksand mortar,proper facilities are a
necessary condition for providing strong educational programs to support
student learning. This is the first planning report regarding school •facilities
presented to the Thames Valley District School Board. The purpose of this
report is to provide factual information on and make recommendations with
respect to:
•financial resources available;
•future enrolment trends;
• buildingfacilitiesrequired to meet student needs;
•ongoing maintenance requirements.
Thisreport does not address areas such as program equityor research projects
that would normallyoccur under a planning function. The purpose ofthis report
is to address current accommodation.Recommendations will be brought
foHivard infuture reports to address those issues.Anumber of appendices were
attached to this report.
Itwas noted that the Elgin,London,Middlesex,and OxfordBoards ofEducation
who were the forming partners ofthe Thames Valley District School Board,each
had differentways ofdealingwithplanningforschool facilities.Some community
and parent groups may believe that priorities identified in previous reports ofthe
predecessor Boards are bindingupon the Thames Valley DistrictSchool Board.
In current circumstances,it will not be possible to use all of the priorities
established in the past.The three primary reasons are:
There has been a dramatic shift In school Board funding.School Boards
can no longer raise funds through local taxation.This limitssignificantly the
funds the Board has available and it also limits the amount of funds school
Boards can borrow.
Priorities need to be set from the perspective of the new and expanded
system.Given the reconfigured District that has resulted from
amalgamation,the overall system conditions within which priorities are
assessed have changed.What may have been a top priorityin one ofthe
forming Boards may no longer be a prioritywhen compared withthe overall
needs in the larger District;a new listof priorities will result.There willbe
schools that were identified as priorities inthe predecessor Boards that will
not be on the new list. Acommunity may react strongly to their school no
longer being considered a priority ~and this is understandable.
The Government of Ontario will provide funds forbuilding new schools only
when the student enrolment surpasses the total capacity available across
the District. For a Board that covers as wide an area as Thames Valley --
over 7,000 km square and over 200 km across --the implications are quite
daunting. Significantenrolment growthin some areas may be canceled out
by vacant spaces or decline in other areas,thereby making the Board
ineligible for new school funding from the Ministry. But while,overall
enrolment growth may be zero,vacant spaces at one end of the Board
can't be used to accommodate the growth taking place at the other end.In
essence,the Board faces the challenge of accommodating significant
1999 April 27..102
growthin some areas withoutreceivingcapitalfundingfromthe provincefor
this.
To help guide decisions relating to school facilities,the Board approved the
School Accommodation Polic/on 1998 ^September 30.The policy states that
instructional faciiities will be planned arid organized withconsideration of the
following factors: to support learning; to achieve operational efficiencies; to
respondtocurrentaccommodationneeds andunique communitycharacteristics;
and; to anticipatethe future.The policyalso states that:"Facility planningat the
school,area and districtlevel will provide opportunities forcommunity input."
On 1998 October 27,consistent with the School Accommodation and Facility
OrganizationPolicyand Procedures, the Boardapproved a motiontoestablish
three Elementary School Area Accommodation Study Committees:
(a)Ingersoll Elementary School Area Accommodation Study Committee to
review the elementary configuration of schools with a view to the
establishment of a JK to Grade 8 delivery model,wherever possible;
(b) Woodstock Elementary School Area Accommodation Study Committee
to review the elementary configuration of schools with a view to
addressing program equity and the establishment of a JK to Grade 8
delivery model,wherever possible;
(c) South St. Thomas Elementary School Area Accommodation Study
Committee to examine the feasibilityof returning JK and SK students to
their home schools.
The Area Study Committee reports,presented to the InformationCommittee
ofthe Whole on March 02,were totie considered atthesame time andwithin
the context of the Student Accommodation and Planning Report.
Funding Capitai Projects -Background
Prior to the amalgamation of school Boards and the new funding model,
individual Boards could finance capital projects either as an expenditure to the
current budget process orthrough the capitalfund byway oflong-termfinancing.
Land, hew buildings, major additions,' major renovations, and the related
furnitureand equipment were financed after Board approval on each project.
Ministry ofEducation and Training capital grants,where applicable, were applied
against the specificproject and the balance, or local share,was funded either
from the current budgetyearor by way'of long-term debt.If itwas financed
through the current budget,then educational property taxes were used to cover
the cost,ifit was financed byway of long-term debt, the annual principal and
interest payments on this debt were included Inthe current operating budget in
the appropriate year. Inadditionto capitalprojects,individual Boards received
a funding allocation from the province under the facility renewal program.
Boards would decide the projects to be funded through this program, and the
1999 April 27..103
local share of those projects could be financed either from the current operating
budget or by way of long-term debt.
Atthe time of amalgamation,the debt ofthe four former Boards became the debt
of the Thames Valley District School Board. This debt included existing
debentures that had been issued prior to amalgamation.It also included projects
which had been approved by the former Boards and were in various stages of
completion, itincluded projects that had been approved bythe Boardwhichhad
not yet commenced,but had been approved by the Education Improvement
Commission.These projects also included energy management contracts.The
outstanding debenture debt of the Thames Valley District School Board as of
1998 August 31,was outlined and is in the amount of $46.5 million.
On 1998 May 14,the Minister of Education and Training announced that the
Province had assumed the responsibility for school Boards'existing capital
related debt.The Ministry has formed a committee of government and Board
personnel to oversee the collection ofinformation regarding capital related debt
and to recommend appropriate approaches to address the issue in both the
short and long-term. The Thames ValleyDistrictSchool Board is represented
on this committee and the work is still ongoing with the intent of providing a
vehicle to finance projects which remain unfinanced at the time of amalgamation.
The intent isto ensure that the costs offinancing,both principaland interest, do
not have an impact on the newfunding model. Therefore, boththe principaland
interest payments related to the outstanding debt of $46 533 193 will have no
impact on the Thames ValleyDistrictSchool Board interms ofannual operating
budgets or any future projects of the Board.
New Funding Model •Overview
Beginning 1998 September 01. the Ministry of Education's new funding model
"Student-Focused Funding for Ontario",replaced the thirty-four types of grants
with nine new categories.The new funding model is based on a foundation
grant,seven special purpose grants,and a pupil accommodation grant under the
new funding model. DistrictSchool Boards no longer have authority to raise
taxes locally. Grants for accommodation will be provided on a per pupil basis in
the following categories:
•Grant for school operation;
•Grant for school renewal;
• Grant for new pupil places.
School Boards are to use these funds to provide schools and facilities for
students,and to operate and maintain schools.The provincial government is
responsible for providing funding through the pupil accommodation grant to
enable Boards to meet these responsibilities, and for monitoringBoard actions
to ensure accountability.
1999 April 27..104
5. On 1999 March 23, the following individuals/groups,in addition to providing
written submissions,addressed the Committee ofthe Wholewith respect tothe
accommodation reports:
NAME INDIVIDUAL/GROUP
Woodstock Elementary School Area Accommodation Study
Steven Johnson/Sylvia Robillard Parents of Chapel School Students
Brian Peat Individual (on all three area studies)
Ingersoll Elementary School Area Accommodation Study
Jack Spence Adam OliverHousing Cooperative Inc.
Brenda Harris/KathyEdge Princess Anne Accommodation Study
Mark Williams Westfield School Council
Moira Sonnenberg Individual
John Sorensen Individual
South St.Thomas Elementary School Area Accommodation Study
Don de Jong Lynhurst Village Committee
Student Accommodation and Planning Report
Additions for Pupil Places -Oxbow P.S.
Mike Granziol Oxbow P.S. Home &School Expansion Ctte
Debbie Heffernan/Pamela Bice Oxbow P.S.School Council
Gail Zavitz Oxbow Home and School Association
Additions for Pupil Places -Masonville P.S.
Mike Lerner On behalf ofvarious community individuals
Gordon Good/Scott McTaggart Masonville Accommodation Committee
Debbie HIckling Individual
Cynthia Mackenzie Individual
Jackie Madden Individual
Additions for Pupil Places-F. D.Roosevelt P.S.
Lisa Morris F.D.Roosevelt P.S.School Council
Area Study Committee -Woodstock and Surrounding Area
Sue Davidson-Brouse Woodstock Collegiate Institute School Council
General
Sharrone Sandor/Lee Benko APPLE Program
Bill Ellis Brick Street P.S.School Council
Betsy Odegaard/Lisa Widdifleld Public Education Rights Coalition (PERC)
Grant Mackay/Dave Burgess Wilton Grove School Council
Other written submissions were also received.
1999 April 27..105
6. On 1999 April 13, the Elementary Scliool Area Accommodation Study
Committee Reports for Woodstock,South St.Thomas,and Ingersoll,andthe
District-wide Student Accommodation and Planning Reportwere reviewed and
debated.
(a)Woodstock Elementary SchoolArea Accommodation Study
In accordance with the Board's school accommodation policy, twenty-two
committee memberswereappointed,and metonfouroccasions duringJanuary
and February,toaddress themandate,"toreview the elementaryconfiguration
ofschools with aviewto address programequityandtheestablishmentofaJK
tograde8 delivery model,wherever possible."Representatives ofthe Board
included TrusteeJoyce Bennettand Board Chairperson,Patricia Smith,who
presided over the meetings.
The committee requested and examined information regarding pupil
accommodationgrants;school organization modelsand instructional programs;
the state of repair of the educational facilities;school operation costs;
demographic trends;and policies governing transportation,staffing and out-of-
area attendance.The committee balanced deliberation of these topics with
discussiononissues surroundingtheImportanceofcommunityschools and the
will to place students'needs first.Tlie following four key questions were
addressed:
- Whatschoolorganizationmodelbest meets thelearning needs of students?
• Howcan school programand facilities be improved?
- How can students be effectively accommodated within Woodstock
elementary schools?
- Howcan school operating efficiencies be optimized?
Weighing issues that ranged from schoolclosureto revisedboundaries,and,
from program changes to facility alterations,fourproposalswereconsideredby
the committee.
(see recommendation 1)
(b) Ingersoll Elementary School Area Accommodation Study
(i)Committee meetings took place in the library at Ingersoll District Collegiate
Instituteon 1999 January 06,20,February 3 and 17.
The Ingersoll area offiveelementary schools was part of an accommodation
study carried out by the former OxfordCounty Board of Education (OCBE)
approximately two years ago. At the conclusion of the OCBE studies, no
changes were introduced.
1999 April 27..106
The committee has received Indetail,material,presentations and discussions
on the following topics during their deliberations:
-Copies of the Board Policy on Accommodation Study
-Rationale and Framework for Area Study Committees from the Board
-Past OCBE studies
-Transportation analysis and costing from Transportation Department
-CurrentschoolboundariesandwalkingpolicyfromTransportation Department
- Facility analysis of each school with costing from Business Services
-Cost analysis of each school for administration,custodial and office for
Operations Services
-Ingersoll growth and development from Ingersoll Development office
- Historical enrolment for all schools from Planning Officer
- ProvincialSchool Capacity data from Planning Officer
- Financial implications of Provincial Funding for School Accommodations and
Student Capacity under Ministryof Education guidelines.
Following analysis of the requested informationr the committee considered
different scenarios:four of th6 scenarios were considered for detailed analysis.
The committee members,in a private meeting with the majority of members
present and all schools represented,decided to develop a separate
recommendation.Upon presentation of their recommendation,the committee
then requested the chair to vote on their proposal.The committee adopted the
recommendation.The total approximate cost ofthe committee recommendation
is $580 000.There are no short or long-term savings to the Board,or to the
capacity of schools across the Board through this recommendation.
The final report included the following committee recommendations
Harris Heights Public Schooi (JK-8)
- JK-8 school by September 2000 (Grade 7 for 1999),followed by grade 8
for 2000).
- Harris Heights to be barrier-free (stair chair lift)
- 33 students in Adam Oliver area transfer to Victory Memorial effective
September 1999
•grade 7 &8 to have equity of program for specialty subjects as students
at Victory Memorial starting 1999
Princess Anne Public Schooi (JK-6)
- no change
Princess Eiizabeth Public Schooi (JK«€)
- no change
Victory Memoriai Schooi (JK-8)
- 33 students from Harris Heights Adam Oliver area Into school for all
grades September 1999
1999 April 27..107
Westfield Public School (JK-6)
• no ciiange
In the event a school in ingersoll Is closed,the Committee would like the
opportunity to regroup tospend more time ona proposal to provide the best
possibleplaninplaceforthe children of Ingersoll.
(see recommendation 2)
(ii)A notice of motions by Trustee Peters with regard to the Ingersoll area
elementary schools were presented as follows:
- That Harris Heights Public School be made a JK-8school,with grade 7
added the first year and grade 8 added the next year; and that
consideration be given for a chairlift to be installed to makethe building
barrier-free.
- That, if budgets permit,Princess Anne Public School be made a JK-8
school,withgrade 7 added the firstyear and grade 8 added the nextyear,
and appropriate accommodation be provided.
-That the Adam Oliver area students continue to be bussed to Harris Heights
Public School unless changes in the Transportation Policy allow these
students to walkto a school withinthe required walking limits.
(see recommendation 2)
(c)South St. Thomas ElementarySchool AreaAccommodation Study
The mandate givento the Committee was very specificand focused. The
Committee dealt directlywiththe mandated question and attempted not to go
beyond its mandate.While the discussions were wide-ranging and
comprehensive,the onlyspecific alternative considered wa^the answertothe
question;"Should the JKand SK students Inthe south St.Thomas area return
to their home schools?"
During the course of four meetings, the committee requested,and then
analyzed and debated a largeamount ofdata.Thls included the Ministry grant
structure,current school boundaries,busing routes,walking distances,current
and historical enrolments,out-of-boundary students,school floor plans and
room utilization,building configurations, school yard sizes.Ministry school
capacities,pupil learning in separated and integrated schools, population
housing and land projections for St. Thomas and Central Elgin,the use of
portables, enrolment capacities, and the ownership of Mary Bucke school
property.After discussing this data.Committeemembers were asked to state
theirownand their constituents'views on the question: "Shouldthe JK and SK
students in the south St.Thomas area return to their home schools?"The
committee operated on a consensus model.
1999 April 27..108
The view was expressed that the south St. Thomas area should not be
considered in isolationfromthe rest ofSt.Thomas and the surrounding areas.
I^any Committee members stated their reasons for retaining the Early
Childhood Education Centre.Also,statements were made In opposition to the
use of portables at school sites.
The Committee dealt withthe problem of under-enrolment in the CEC South
area,as wellas the problemofshiftingpopulationsand planned development
in new suburban areas.Committee members were informed that,unless the
under-enrolmentproblemis resolved, fundingfor new school construction or
building additionswill notbe possible.Committee membersstated theirbelief
that a more extensive study offuture school needs,shifting populations, and
reconfigured boundaries could lead to a more fully integrated long-termplan.
Hence, the Committee came to agreement on the recommendations.
Itisanticipatedthat ifan area study committeeforschools inand near the City
of St...Thomas is established, the review may result In a need for school
closures,boundary changes,student relocation. Itmay also result in the re-
designation of schools (grade distribution).The plan for the community
reorganization recognizes the potential need for building modifications,
additions tofacilities,holding zone accommodation and transportation,and use
of portables.
(see recommendation 3)
(d)Trustee Jaffe presented recommendations insupportofthe accommodation
plan,based onthe provincial funding model,which excludedtheBoardfornew
pupilplaced dollars.
(see recommendation 4)
(e)Student Accommodation Reserve Fund
Altemative sources of funds for providing funds to accommodate student
growth,building ofnew schools or additionswas recommended.
Itwas noted tfiat ifthis reserve is established inthe range ofapproximately $10
to $15 million and invested over time, the funds could contribute significantly to
the ability to meet the demands in the next five to ten years for new pupil
places.In addition tothe reserve,a working fund reserveofnot less than$5
million should be maintained to meet special circumstances as they arise,
(see recommendation 5)
(f)School Renewal Grant
The Ministry does notrequireallofthefundsinthe schoolrenewalgrantto be
spent onschool renewal. Theadministrationsuggests that some funds maybe
used foradditions and renovations.To reduce the expenditure inthe area of
school renewal significantly belowthe grantlevelwill,in all l[l<elihood,cost more
money,since the level of ongoing maintenance will be reduced.
1999 April 27..109
The Board approved on 1998December 08,as partofthebudgetprocess,"that
the Boardtransfer $8 251 905 to the PupilAccommodation Reserve Fund for
theschoolrenewalmoneyas required under Regulation Number446/98."Any
money left,automatically will tie transferred to the Pupil Accommodation
Reserve.
(see recommendation 6)
(g)Oxbow P.S.
Oxbow P.S. isa JKtograde 8 schoollocatedin llderton in Middlesex County
northwest ofLondon.The lldertoncommunity has become asatellite community
adjacent to the Cityof London.The current full time equivalent (PTE)student
enrolment for the school Is 284.50, with a Ministry of Education and Training
Capacity of 162.This capacity isbased on6 rooms at 25 pupils per room and
one at 12 pupilsforthe totalof 162.Inadditiontothe permanent capacitythere
are presently8 portables on site.Atthe present time,7 ofthe remote portables
are being used forregular classroom instruction and 1 portabje is being used
for small group instruction and storage.
Neighbouring schools are also at capacity and are unable to providealternate
long-term accommodation.The growth in the llderton community has been
occurring overthe past number ofyears. A reviewof the school's enrolment
indicates a slightgrowthinthe grade 1 to 8 population from 1991.Itis noted,
however, that even withoutadditional residential development,the base grade
1to8pupilscount will continue to maintainthe school above capacity.Thisfact,
with the approved new developments,will sustain the student population
requiring an addition to the school. Over the long-term, it is anticipated that
Oxbow P. S. will maintain an enrolment of 125 to 150 above the current Ministry
identified capacity.
Aprevious feasibilitystudy conducted in1996 August,produced a sketch plan
at an estimated cost of $2 million.The plan included a 6-room addition, new
gymnasium and other enhancements.
An alternative considered for Oxbow P.S.,is to build a school more centrally
located in the attendance area.An ideal site would be in the tov/n of llderton.
Ifthis option were considered,the approximate costs would be:
Area:Cost:
Land and Building $6.0 million
Revenue from Sale of Existing Building and Site $0.3 million
Net Cost $5.7 million
Cost of Addition and Renovation $2.6 million
Cost Increase of New Building over an Addition $3.1 million
1999 April 27..11Q
Annual bus savings would be $32 000. The above amounts are estimates and
not appraised values.The figures used for buildingand land costs represent
our latest costs and take Into account land values.These costs are the costs
for North Meadows P.S. in Strathroy which Is approximately the same size and
was opened in the fallof 1998.
This optionwas rejected since the cost increase is not affordable given limited
funds, the inability to raise funds locally,and the lack of Ministry grants for new
student places.
(see recommendation 7)
(h)Masonville P.S.
MasonvilieP.S. isa JKto grade 8 school located inthe north section ofLondon,
at the southwest corner of Richmond Street and Fanshawe Park Road.The
school enrolment (PTE) Is 353.00 with a Ministry of Education and Training
capacity of 271 pupil places.The school currently has 8 remote portables on
site.At Masonville P.S., 7 of the remote portables are used for regular
classroom instruction and 1formusic. This community has been impacted over
the past number of years bythe growth of the Medway Meadows area.This
development is nearing completion with only individuallots remaining to be
constructed.The long-term population would appear to sustain a 6 to 8 room
addition.
An alternative considered for Masonville P.S.is to build a school more centrally
located Inthe attendance area.An appropriate area would be on Ambleside.
Ifthis option were considered,the approximate costs would be:
Area:Cost:
Land and Building -$7.0 million
Revenue from Sale of Existing Building and Site $ 2.0 million
Net Cost $5.0 million
Cost of Addition and Renovation $2.0 million
Cost increase of New Building over an Addition $ 3.0 million
Annual bussavingswould be $11 SOO.The above amounts are estimatesand
not appraised values.The figures used for buildingand land costs represent
our latest costs and take into account land values.These costs are the costs
for North Meadows P.S. in Strathroy,which is approximately the same size and
was opened in the fall of 1998.
This option was rejected since the cost increase is not affordable given limited
funds, the inability to raise funds locally,and the lack of Ministry grants for new
student places.Information with respect to land acquisition for the Masonville
P.S.community was provided.
(see recommendation 8)
1999 April 27..111
(i)F.D.Roosevelt P.S.
F.D.Roosevelt P.S. isa JKtograde 8 school located In the eastern partof
LondononSecond Street, northofDundas Street, south ofOxfordStreet. The
PTE enrolment Is474.00 with a Ministry of Education and Training capacityof
359 pupil places.This capacity wasbasedon 14 classroon:is at 25:1 andone
Special Education room with a 9 pupil loading count.In addition to the
permanent capacity,there are 9 remote portables on site.Seven ofthe 9
remote portables are being used for regular classroom instruction while 1is
being usedforvocal music and1for instrumental music programs.
The PTE enrolment is anticipated to remain Intherangeof450to460students
overthe period ofthe projection.The community is attractive to first home
buyers and,as a result ofthis factor,is likely to maintain a population base in
thisrangeoverthe longterm. Thereare still a numberof "in-fill"developments
under consideration within the community.This will result in a student
population of approximately 100 pupils abovethe Ministry defined capacity.
'Neighbouring schools are ejther at capacity,orare subject to growth'from
proposed developments within theirown areas.In orderto accommodate the
long-term population,a 6to8 room addition would be required,
(see recommendation 9)
0)Plattsvllla P.S.
Plattsville P. S. Isa JKtograde 8school locatedinthe communityof Plattsville
innortheastOxford County.ThecurrentPTEenrolment is326.00with a Ministry
of Education and Training capacity of 234.
Thiscapacityis based on 9 roomsat 25:1and 1Special Education room at a
room loading of9 pupil places. In addition tothispermanentcapacity,there
isa portapack of8 units and3 additional portables fora total of 11 units.The
8 unit portapackis a self-contained unitofregularclassrooms, a washroom,
a staff room,and a work area.
The portapack was constructed with a common corridor anda walkway tothe
school buildlrig;some refurbishing is required.The 3 remote portables are not
currently beingused forregularclassroom instruction.Oneremoteportableis
being used forvocal music, 1forsmallgroup Instruction,and 1for storage.
The Plattsvillearea has been designated as a growth area withinthe County of
Oxford,and has experienced a number ofnew residentialdevelopments over
thepast numberofyears,as can be seen inthe enrolment figuresfor Plattsville
P S.since 1991.
1999 April 27..112
This communily has grown because ofits proximity to Kitchener/Waterloo over
the past numberofyears. The FTE enrolment has increased from 253.00 in
1991,to326.00 in 1998.This represents a 28.8%growth.There are additional
new subdivisions within the approval process,which will continuetoimpactthe
student population at Plattsville P.S.This ongoing growth and developmentwill
maintain an ongoing FTEstudent population In excess ofthe currentcapacity
of between 150 and 175 pupils. Should the school continue to grow in
enrolment,consideration inthe future may be given to a permanent addition,
(see recommendation 10)
(k)Strathroy District Collegiate Institute
The Administration presenteda reportregarding theprojectofa newsecondary
school in Strathroyin cooperation with the London District Catholic School
Board. Thisprojectbegan in 1995 when a consultingteam was retained bythe
former Middlesex County Board of Education and the former London &
MiddlesexCountyRomanCatholicSchoolBoard,toprepare a feasibility report
whichwouldexamine the potentialphysical space and cost benefitswhichmay
be achieved bya multi-usefacility solution. Itwas proposed that, bycombining
facilities for a public secondary school,Catholic secondary school, and
municipal facilities within ajointdevelopment,benefitscouldbeachievedfor all
parties. A woridng groupofschoolBoardstaff,theTownof Strathroy,and the
Countyof MiddIesex,continue to meet to discuss opportunitiesfora multi-use
facility.
Thisschoolisbeingconsideredformajorrenovation duetoitsage andcurrent
condition.Approximately 25%oftheclasses are held In the original building
which was builtin 1914. There are no other secondary schools inthe vicinity
where these students could be bused.Ifthis were possible,closure of the
existing school would be an alternative.
Between40-50%oftfiestudents registering forgrade9,attendRomanCatholic
elementaryschools. Asa result,the enrolmentatStrathroy District Collegiate
will decline when the London District Catholic School Board builds a new
secondary school.
TheThames Valley District SchoolBoardhas been approached bythe London
District CatholicSchool Boardto enter into a jointproject. Should the Board
approvethis project,a newschool would be built that would provide education
to students in both the separate school and the publicschool system. The
Province is receptive to this kindof approach.
Although one ofthe alternatives put forward above isa major renovation.ItIs
the opinion ofthe administration thattheuse offundsthat would normally goto
a renovationare better used togointoa jointproject,thus capturingthe benefits
of an entirely new building,rather than repair a building that will require
continuoushighmaintenance.Significant discussionshave occurred with the
Ministry of Education to appeal for financial assistance forthisjoint project.
1999 April 27..113
The estimated costs are as follows:
Renovations $18 million (fire/safety/plant upgrades/program enhancement)
New facility $20 million
(see recommendation 11]
(I)Northbrae P.S.
Northbrae P.S.isa JKtograde8school located inthe north sectorof London,
just north ofHuron Street andeastofAdelaide Street,andhasa current FTE
enrolment of595.50 with a Ministry of Education and Training capacityof409.
This capacity isbased on 16 rooms at 25:1 and 1 Special Education Room at
9 pupils.In addition tothe permanent capacity,thereare presently 12 portables
on site.Presently 9 ofthe 12 remote portables are being used for regular
classroom Instruction,ESL,and Special Education.The remaining portables
are beingused forvocal music,instrumental music,and storage.
The Northbrae area has witnessed a growthofapproximately100 pupilssince
1991.The projections would indicate that this sustained enrolment in the
school.Istiedtotheaffordablehousingwhichbringsa constant influx of families
tothis community,and has generated a needforan addition tothe school.The
long-term figures indicate an enrolment above Ministry capacity of between 175
and 225.
In order to provide additional permanent accommodation as well as to
accommodate peaks ofenrolment in portables, an additionof8 to 10 rooms
would be required.
Neighbouring schools are at capacity;however,there Is space at SirGeorge
Ross S.S.There are other alternatives that should be considered such as:
sharing space at Sir GeorgeRossS.S.;consolidating SirGeorge Ross and
ThamesSecondarySchoolprograms;andyear-roundschooling.Discussions
should occur withthe community priorto finalizing a recommendation,
(see recommendation 12)
(m)Dorchester Area
RiverHeightsP.S. isa JKtograde 4school located In Dorchesterin Middlesex
County.ThecurrentFTEenrolment is460.50 with a Ministry of Education and
Training capacity of334. Thiscapacity is based on 13 classrooms at 25:1 and
1 Special Education roomat 9 pupils.In addition to thispermanent capacity,
there are 7 portables on site.Presently,6 ofthe 7 portables are being used for
regularclassroom instruction,and 1forsmallgroup Instruction and a "Before
&After School"program.
1999 April 27..114
As the historical enrolment indicates,this school has been operating above
capacity for a number of years.This has been due to the new residential
development and growthinthe Dorchestercommunityoverthe past numberof
years. Thegrade 5to8 students are accommodated at NorthdaleCentralP. S.
also in Dorchester.
The Middlesex County Board of Education bought approximately 10 acres of
land north of Northdale P.S. withinthe last 5 years.The potential for a review
ofthe accommodation patterns in this area as part ofan overall Dorchester area
study,was identified inthe past bythe formerBoardas well as being presented
bythe community.Modifications to existing facilitiesis a possibility.
An Area School Accommodation Study Committee for this area would be
appropriate within thecontextofthe Board'sAccommodationPolicy. TheArea
Study Committee should review elementary and secondary school student
accommodation.Alternatives such as;both schools consisting of grades JK-8;
both schools consisting of grades JK-6 and a secondary school consisting of
grades 7-12,are a few of the.options that should be considered,
(see recommendation 13)
(n)Woodstock Area
The Ministry capacity for Woodstock Collegiate Institute Is 801 PTE and the
current enrolment is 556.892 FTE.The originalschool was builtin 1939 with
additions builtIn 1946,1953,1956,and 1985.The school consists of3 wings
and has 3 floors totaling 101 309 square feet and the site is 1.8 acres.
Major deficiencies were provided as follows;
a) Life safety requirements - major code update required;
b) Healthand safety requirements -asbestos removal;'
c)Mechanical - new ventilation system,boiler replacement;
d) Exterior -window replacement,masonry restoration, stair replacement,
roofreplacement.''
Alternatives were provided as follows;
a) Major renovations to existing buildingincludingprogram enhancements;
b)Replace with new facility.
Estimated costs were provided as follows;
a)Renovations $9 million (fire,safety, plant upgrades - $6 million);
b) New facility $12 million (using ministrygrant formula for700 new pupil
places).
1999 April 27..115
There may be alternatives from building a new school to accommodating
existing students from Woodstock Collegiate Institute inother facilities,andto
renovating the existing building.Community inputshouldbe receivedpriorto
any recommendation being formulated.Land had been purchased bythe
Oxford County Boardof Education within the last 5 years,with the hope of
eventually building an elementary andsecondaryschoolnexttothe Community
Complex inthe south part ofthe city.
(see recommendation 14)
7. The Monthly Rnanclal Statements as at 1999 February28,were received.
Financial Statement -1999 February 28
Approved Budget 1998 December 08 $517 363 793
Add:Revenues from Special Grant Initiatives
ReportCard Implementation Grant $ 26 363
26 363
Add:Miscellaneous Revenue Items
1998 Stub Year School Budget $623 181
Carryforward 92 777
Food Services Rebate 11 306
Recycling 3 600
Registrations • Workshops and Seminars 19 050
Research and Assessment Sen/ices
$749 914
Revised Expenditure Budget -1999 February 28 $518 140 070
Revised Revenue Budget -1999 February 28 $518 140 070
8. The Report of the Information Committee of the Whole, which met on 1999
April06,was received.
a)Electronic Meetings
At the Policy Working Committee meeting on 1999 February 23, the
Administration presented a draft policyon ElectronicMeetings and provided
information on the Ontario Regulation 463/97 of the Education Act,as well as
policies from other boards.Many issues were identified and the Committee
agreed that all Trustees be given an opportunity to provide input into the
process at the next Information Committee ofthe Whole meeting.
The Administration presented an overviewofthe OntarioRegulation463/97and
an update on what has been done to date.The Regulation requires every
district school board to develop and implement a policyfor the use of electronic
meetings. Itis especially relevant for boards withlarge territories where travel
to a common location is difficult and/or Impractical during certain seasons.This
Regulation enables boards to conduct meetings using electronic conferencing
connections.
1999 April 27..116
The main features in the Regulation are:
-electronic meetings at requestofboard member or pupil representative;
-criteria for electronic means - all participants can hear and be heard;
- compliancewith conflict ofinterest rules;
-non-participation of public and pupil representative inclosedsessions;
-specifies physical presence requirementsat meeting location;
- board to determine public participation at electronicmeetings.
Several issues/questions that have been identified:
-locations for electronic meetings?
-audio teleconferencing only?
-time frame to request electronic meeting?
- site monitorsto oversee compliance with board and Ministry regulations?
- public participation through electronic means?
-technical assistance if equipment breaks down?
-meeting procedures (e.g.verbalnotes,materials distributed at meeting)?
-confidentiality/security?
The Administration responded to questions for clarification,and trustees
provided input as requested. A revised draft policy will be preparedto reflect
the discussion, and will be presented to the Policy Working Committee for
further review.
b)Transportation Services Overview
The Administration presented a comprehensive overview of the present
transportation services and relatedtopics. Adraft policy and procedures on
Transportation have been reviewed bythe Administration and was presented
to the PolicyWorkingCommittee on February 23.
Thepresentation outlined seven walking distancealternativesstudiedtodate,
Including the alternative recommended by the Administration to the Policy
Working Committee.Itwas noted,the current transportation funding isbased
ontheexpenditurelevelsofthefourformer boardsatthetimeof amalgamation.
The Administration is inthe process of developing a Request for Proposalto
obtainexternalexpertisetoassist with further developmentofourcomputerized
transportation including route optimization forthe entire district. The contract
wouldbe forapproximatelytwo years,and the costs wouldbe covered bythe
expectedsavings throughroute optimization.Without externalexpertise,five
to sixyears wouldbe required to reach the same levelofcomputerization.
The Ministry of Education and Training has had a committee reviewing
provincial transportation funding.The committee recently finished their first
report,"A NewApproach to Transportation Funding".Thereporthas nowbeen
released to school boards forcomment; and a copy was provided to trustees.
If the recommendations contained in the report are implemented by the
province,significant changes will occurinthe delivery ofstudenttransportation
inthe province.
1999 April 27..117
The Administration respondedtoquestionsfor clarification,and will continueto
develop the draft policy and procedures to reflect the input received, for
presentationtothe Policy Working Committee on April 27.
c) Update on Special Education Harmonization Plan
In responsetoa trustee request,a brief updatewas provided onthe Special
Education Harmonization Plan which was tabled witii the Special Education
Advisory Committee (SEAC)today. TherevisedPlanhas been referredtothe
Steering Committee of SEAC for review and refinement and will be presented
to SEAC on April 20.
Recommendations:
1.That the following be approved inprinciple:
C (a) That elementaryschools in the City of Woodstock be organized,
where possible, byclosingChapel PublicSchool;introducing a JKto
Grade 8 school organization modelfor Eastdaie, Southside, Oliver
Stephens, Springbank,Hlllcrest,D.M.Sutheriand,Northdale and
Central Public Schools;maintainingthe JKto Grade Sdeliverymodel
for Broadway and Victoria Public Schools;and bussing students
residing west of Mill Street to Oliver Stephens Sr. PublicSchool.
(b) That consideration be given to varyingthe organizationof schools
within the Central Senior Public School area with a view to
addressing undercapacity issues at CentralSchooland providing a
JK to Grade 8 delivery mode! at Northdale PublicSchool;
(c) That the overall safety of children,including safe^nd reasonable
access to school facilities,continue to be a priorityof the Board;
(d) That alterations to school buildings as a result of the
recommendations take into account,plans for future enrolment
growth,and opportunitiesto optimizestudent learningthrough the
enhancement of school programs;
(e) That implementation of the recommendations be conducted in a
gradual,controlled manner, inongoingconsultationwiththe school
community,to ensure a smooth transitionforchildrenand teachers;
(f) That, where feasible,students presently attending senior public
schools be given the opportunity to continue theirschooling at that
site until the completion of Grade 8;
1999 April 27..118
(g)That in consideration of recommendation (b)above, the Board
endeavourtoaddress schoolcapacityand programequityissues in
Woodstock schools through the establishment of specialized
programs such as French Immersion,School forthe Arts, Science
and Technology,etc;
(h)Thatthe Boardregulateschoolcapacityat Southslde Public School,
Oliver Stephens Senior PublicSchool and Algonquin PublicSchool
throughthe designation ofa "Holding Zone"forfamiliesmovingInto
the Potters Woods subdivision in the southwest of Woodstock and
the planned subdivision east of Lansdowne Avenue inthe Township
of Blandford-Blenheim;
(i)That children be accommodated within the school building with the
goal of eliminating as many portable classrooms as possible."
2. That the Report of the ingersoll Elementary School Accommodation Study
Committee,and the three motionsbyTrustee Peters related to HarrisHeights
P.S.,Princess Anne P.S., and the AdamOliver area students,be referred tothe
Administration for review and discussion with the community, and the
Administration report back to the Board with recommendations by 1999
June 15.
3.That the following be approved:
(a) That the JK and SK students inthe South St. Thomas area not be
returned to their home schools at the present time.
(b) Thatthe BoardestablishanAreaStudy Committee fortheschoolsin
and near the CityofSt.Thomas,withthe purpose of recommending
a long-term configuration of schools that will maximizethe use and
efficient operationofthe facilities;whileremainingconsistentwith the
Board's commitment to quality educational programs.
(c) That a St.Thomas and Area Study Committee be established with
one representative from each school community and two Trustees,
together with administration and appropriate public agencies,to
develop a recommended school organizational configuration,and to
report to the Board by 1999 November 30.
4.Whereas the Thames Valley DistrictSchool Board administration prepared a
responsible accommodation plan based on the provincial funding model, in
which the Thames Valley District School Board did not qualify for new pupil
place dollars, and
1999 April 27..119
Whereassubsequent pubiic commentsbythe Honourable DianneCunningham,
MPPLondon North,and the l-ionourable David Johnson,Ministerof Education
and Training,implied flexibility ingovernment funding and the possibility ofa
newschool inthe Masonvllle area ofthe Thames Valley District School Board,
and
Whereas the Thames Valley District School Board Trustees are concerned
about equity in programs and accommodation throughout theThames Valley
District School Board area,and
Whereas any special exemptionfundingwouldfree up fundingfor necessary
renovations on existing aging buildings throughout the Thames Valley District
School Board,as wellas,allowforsavingsforfuture exceptional circumstances,
and
Whereas the first priority for any special exemption fundingfor the Thames
ValleyDistrictSchool Board be the replacement ofStrathroy DistrictCollegiate
Institute,
Beitresolved that the Thames ValleyDistrictSchool Board applytothe Ministry
for exemption funding to cover costs for a site,facility,and furniture and
equipment for the Masonville area and the llderton area schools,based on
Ministry criteria,and
If theabove special exemption fundingfora newsite,building and furniture and
equipmentis not announced bythe Ministry ofEducationand TrainingbyMay
15,that renovations as outlined inthe administrative report for Masonvilleand
Oxbow Elementary Schools proceed to development stage,and
If special exemption funding is made availableforthe Masolivllle area, thatthe
Thames ValleyDistrictSchool Board give primary consideration to utilizing the
existingpropertyforother school uses (e.g. French Immersion) and encourage
the Cityof London to maintain the site for residential use.
5.That a student accommodation reserve fund be established which would
include the following monies:
(i)1997 surplus ofthe 4 former Boards -$4.4 million
(ii)1998 stub year surplus -whilethe auditisnotcomplete,weanticipatethat
there would be a surplus in the stub year as a result of operating
efficiencies and control of expenditures
(iii)Sale of administrative buildings such as the former Middlesex
administrative centre.In addition,the former Oxford and Elgin buildings
are listedfor sale and total proceeds could be set aside in this fund.
(iv) The province recently announced additional funding for the 1999/2000
year as follows:
School Operation Grant 7.2 million
School Renewal Grant 1.2 million
Total $8.4 million
(v) Atthe time of amalgamation,the former Boards had varying amounts of
working reserve funds.These funds are also tobe included inthis special
reserve fund.
>
y
1999 April 27..120
6. Thatthe renewalgrantbe allocatedtoschool renewal,and anysurplusfunds
at year end be transferred to the Student Accommodation Reserve Fund.
7.That an addition of 6 to 8 new classrooms be made to Oxbow P.S.to meet the
permanent accommodation needs and that peak enrolment growth be
accommodated in portables as required.
8.That an addition of 6 to 8 new classrooms be made to Mason\^ile P.S.to meet
the permanent accommodation needs,and that peak enrolment growth be
accommodated in portables as required.
9.That an addition of 6 to 8 new classrooms be made to F.D.Roosevelt P.S.to
meet the permanent accommodation needs,and that peak enrolment growth
be accommodated in portables as required.
10.That enhancements be made to the portapak and that discussions occur with
the communitywith respect to altering boundaries in Brightin order to reduce
the enrolment at Plattsville P.S.
11.That the Board proceed in cooperation vyith the LondonDistrictCatholicSchool
Board to build a new secondary school in Strathroy,and that the Chair and
administration continue to request funds fromthe Ministry of Education on the
grounds that Strathroy DistrictCollegiate should be viewed as an exception to
the new pupil places grant due to the fire, lifeand safety requirements.
12.That an Area Study Committee for the Northbrae community be established to
deal with student accommodation for elementary and secondary schools,and
this study include Northbrae P.S.,Sir George Ross S.S.,and Thames S.S.
13.That an Area Study Committee for the Dorchester area be established to deal
with student accommodation for elementary and secondary students.
14.That an Area Study Committee dealing with secondary schools review
secondary school accommodation in the Woodstock and surrounding area.
P.SMITH,
Chairperson
The report is received and recommendations 2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12,13,and
14 are approved on motion of Jaffe and Hart.
Recommendation 1 is tabled to the 1999 June 22 meeting of the Board,as approved
above,Item 55-A,recommendation 2 (see page 95).
Trustee Vaughan is absent during voting.
1999 April 27..121
56-D.Committee of the Whole 1999 April 27
1.No conflicts of interest were declared.
2. The Committee met incamera from5:00 p.m.to 5:35 p.m. and discussed
confidential legal,personnel and other matters.
Recommendations:
1.Thatthe motions approvedatthe in-camerasession on 1999 April 27related
to (a) Secondary Administrative appointments, and (b)OPSBA Awards
nominations,be approved and reported inthe minutes of 1999 April 27.
(a) That, in accordance with the Interim Promotional Practices:
Selection procedures and Appointment of Principals and
VicePrincipals,the following "pool"of candidates be approved for
appointment to the position, Principal,Secondary Schools:
Mary Louise Anderson
Len Bartholomew
Marty Wooiiings
(b)- That Marcie McCallum and Andrew Rushmere be the Board's
nominations for the OPSBA's Jack A.MacDonald Award.
-That Geoff Shilleto be the Board's nomination for the OPSBA's
Fred L.Bartlett Award.
- That Jean Wrightbe the Board's nomination forthe OPSBA's Dr.
Harry Paikin Award.
2. That the resignation for retirement from the Board for the teachers listed
below be accepted under the mutual consent clause effective on the date
indicated:
Name Retirement Date
Mary Jane Barth 1999 October 31
Janet Johnston 1999 March 31
Susan Webb 1999 September 30
P.JAFFE,
Chairperson
The report isreceived and the recommendations adopted on motionofJaffe and Brock.
Trustee Vaughan is absent during voting.
1999 April 27..122
56-E.Reportofthe Chairs'Committee 1999 April 28
Recommendations:
1.Thatthe following appointmentstoArea Accommodation StudyCommittees
be approved:
Northbrae -J.Bennett,M.Metras
Dorchester - W. Brock,J.Hunter
Woodstock - R.Vaughan,G. Hart
St.Thomas • C.Nurse,D.Stewart
2. That,notwithstanding the motion approved bythe Boardon 1998 December
15-118-B,the following be appointed as Chairofthe AreaAccommodation
Study Committees:
Northbrae -J.Bennett
Dorchester .-W.Brock
Woodstock -G.Hart
St.Thomas • D.Stewart
The recommendations are adopted on motionof Brockand Wice.
Trustee Vaughan is absent during voting.
58*F.Budget Advisory Committee 1999 April 27, 5:45 p.m. - 6:45 p.m.
Members Administration and Others
R.Vaughan, Chairperson M.Metras B.Greene
W.Brock P.Smith J.Laughlin
G. Hart A. Hogg
1.No conflicts of interest were declared.
2. Trustee Vaughan was elected Chairperson, and assumed the chair.
3. The Committee discussed the process and timetable forthe 1999-2000 budget.
Recommendation:
1.That the following timelines be approved:
1999 June 01 information Committee of the Whole Budget
presentation by Administration
1999 June 04 Writtenpublic submissions to the Executive
Secretary,must be received by 4:30 p.m.
1999 April 27..123
1999 June 08 individuals who submitted written submissions
may speak to the Committeeofthe Wholefor up
to 5 minutes.Groups may speak for up to 10
minutes
1999 June 15 Committee of the Whole -debate and decisions
1999 June 22 Finalapproval bythe Board
R.VAUGHAN,
Chairperson
ITie report is received and the recommendation approved on motion of Hartand
Stewart.
Trustee Vaughan is absent during voting.
MOTIONS -NOTICE OF WHICH HAS BEEN GIVEN
57-A.None at this time
ADDITIONAL BUSINESS
58-A.Ontario Public School Board's Association (OPSBA)Update
Trustee Nurse advises that the OPSBA professional development session on
Saturday,1999 /^ril 10 inLondonreceived excellent representation and was
well received. The BoardofDirectorsmet 1999 April 23 and one ofthe topics
discussed was the Early Years Study. Updates on tlie grades 3 and 6
Assessments are providedand trustees are remindedofthe OPSBAAnnual
Meeting in Deerhurst.
The report is received on motion of Nurse and IHart.
Trustee Vaughan is absent during voting.
COMMUNICATION
59-A.Onyota'a:ka Kalihuny Nihtsia Tehatilihutakwas
Received 1999 February 08, from Linda Doxtator, Education Administrator
ofOnyota'a:ka Kalihuny NihtslaTehatllihutakwas,advisingthat she has been
nominated as an alternative member to the Native Advisory Committee
effective immediately, replacing Renae Hill who is currently on leave.
The nomination of Linda Doxtator as an alternative member to the Native Advisory
Committee,effective immediately,Is approved on motion of Brock and Wice.
Trustee Vaughan is absent during voting.
1999 April 27..124
S9-B,Ottawa-Carleton Catholic District School Board
Received 1999 February18 from Arthur J.M.Lamarche,Chairpersonof
Ottawa-Carleton Catholic District School Board,advising that at the 1999
February09 Board Meeting,a report and motions on the IHarmonization of
EducationalPrograms, were unanimouslyapproved bythe Board.
The Ottawa-Carleton Catholic District School Board feels very strongly that
it and other amalgamated boards are at a disadvantage relative to non-
amalgamated boards,inthematterofharmonizationofeducational programs.
The Ministry provided school boards with $385 million to merge
administration, facilities, policies, technology, etc., but no funds were
provided for the merging of educational programs. This has resulted in
school boards,such as the Ottawa-Carleton Catholic DistrictSchool Board,
allocating a considerableamount of financial and human resources to this
matter,to the disadvantage of the classroom..
The motion requests that the Ministry reconsider this matter and provide
fundstoamalgamatedboardstocarryoutthisprogram harmonization.This
letterIsbeingcirculatedtothe OntarioCatholicSchool Trustees'Association
and all amalgamated boards,seeking support for this request.
A motion byBrockand Wice that the Board support the Ottawa-CarletonCatholic
District School Board's position,and communicate thissupport to the Ministry of
Education and Training and to the Ontario Public School Boards' Association, is
adopted.
Trustee Vaughan is absent during voting.
59-C.Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board
Received 1999 March23fromAngela Lloyd,Chairperson ofKawarthaPine
Ridge District School Board, advising that at the Regular Meetingof 1999
March10,the Kawartha Pine Ridge District SchoolBoardmovedand carried
the motion:
That the Ministers of Health,Education and Training,and
Community and Social Services, review the Interministeriai
Guidelines for the Provision of Speech and Language Sen/ices;
That ifit is deemed that sen/ices to this age group (4.11 - 5.11
years) be better provided through the education system,that
appropriate funds be made available to boards of education to
meet this need;and
That this Issue be brought to the attention of all SEAC
Committees of Boards of Education,District Health Councils,and
MPPs."
1999 April 27..125
A motion by Brock and Wice that the Board support the Kawartha Pine Ridge District
School Board's position,and communicate this support tothe various Ministers and
to the Ontario Public School Boards'Association Is adopted.
TrusteeVaughanIsabsent during voting.
ADJOURNMENT
The meeting adjourns at10:30 p.m.on motion of Brock andJaffe.
CONFIRMEOi^^fia^
Chairperson