3/28/2000 - Regular Board MeetingTHAMES VALLEY DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD
AGENDA FOR REGULAR MEETING,2000 MARCH 28
The Board meets inregular session on the above date inthe BoardRoomat the Education Centre, meeting
in Committee of the Whole, in camera at 5:00 p.m. on motion of and followed by a public
session at 7:00 p.m.
O CANADA -INNERKIP CENTRAL P.S.JUNIOR CHOIR,INNERKIP
TRIBUTES
39-A.CONFLICTS OF INTEREST
CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES
40-A.Minutes of the Regular Board meeting,2000 February 22
REPORTS FROM THE ADMINISTRATION
41-A.Director's Announcements
41-B.Departmental Updates
REPORTS OF COMMITTEES
42-A.Special Education Advisory Committee,2000 March 07
42-B.Report of the Committee of the Whole,2000 March 21
MOTIONS •NOTICE OF WHICH HAS BEEN GIVEN
43-A.None at this time
ADDITIONAL BUSINESS
44-A.Ontario Public School Boards'Association •Update
COMMUNICATIONS
45-A.Peter Moffatt,Director of Education,Grand Erie District School
Board
45-B.Janet Ecker,Minister of Education
NOTICE OF MOTIONS
QUESTIONS BY MEMBERS
GOOD NEWS ITEMS -"Did you know..."
ADJOURNMENT
approve separate
receive
receive
verbal
pages 2-14
approve pages 15-18
approve pages 19-42
receive verbal
receive
receive
page 43
page 43
-TTr-
THAMES VALLEY DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD
REGULAR MEETING,2000 MARCH 28
TTie Board meets in regular session on the above date inthe Board Room at the
Education Centre, meeting in Committee of tfie Whole,in camera at 5:00 p.m. on
motion of Brock and Sutherland,followed by a public session at 7:00 p.m. The
following are in attendance:
P.Jaffe, Chairperson (-5:50,+6:05)G.Hart C. Nurse (-8:28,+8:38)
D.Stewart J.Hunter VJ.Brock
R.Vaughan A.Sutherland J.Townshend
S.Peters P.Smith A.Oeathe (+7:00)
also:
J. Laughlin
J.Empringham G.Owens
P.Askey P.Mennill B.Strong
P.Gryseels R. Murray K.Bushell
B.Bryce G.Treble G.Osinski
B.Greene C. Murphy S.Galati
M.Sereda L.Peck S.Christie
G.Jazey J.McKenzle A. Hogg
J.Thorpe J.Mclntyre S.Lundrigan
Regrets:J.Bennett,P.Schuyier
INNERKIP CENTRAL P.S.JUNIOR CHOIR,INNERKIP
The appreciation ofthe Boardis extended to the students ofthe innerkip Central P.S.
Junior Choir, Innerkip,conductor Brenda Thorne,and accompanist Lois Goodall,for
leading inthe singing of "0 Canada",and bringing musical presentations.
TRIBUTE TO HOWARD MCLEAN
Itis with regret that we record the death of Howard Alexander McLean on Monday,
2000 January 03. Mr. McLean was a founding member of,and past Chairperson of,
the Middlesex County Board of Education.With the exception of a few years,he
served as a dedicated trustee from 1961 until his retirement in 1994.He served as a
trustee on the Ekfrid Township School Boardfrom 1961 untilthe township boards were
amalgamated in 1969;he then represented Ekfridand MetcalfeTownships inthe new
Middlesex County Board. As an active member ofthe Ontario Public School Boards'
Association, the provincial trustee organization,he was the Middlesex County Board's
representative to the Association for many years.
Mr.McLean's first priority was aiways the students.To quote Howard from a 1994
newspaper article"...We have to remember we're there forthe kids". He was always
ready to lend a hand when something needed to be done at the schools.
2000 March 28...107
HowardMcLeanwas a lifelong resident of Ekfrid Township,near Melbourneand loved
to workwiththe sheep and ponies on his farm,l-iewas activeiy invoivedinthe church
and the community, and was honoured by the Melbourne Lion's Club at one time by
being named "Citizenof the Year".
TRIBUTE TO MURIEL BISHOP
Itis withregret that we record the death of Muriel Bishop on Monday, 2000 March 13
inher 86th year. Ms.Bishop was a prominent OxfordCountycommunity leader.She
was the firstwoman chairperson ofthe NorwichDistrictHighSchool Board and served
six years on the Oxford Coun^Board ofEducation. Ms.Bishop was the ViceChair of
the OxfordCounty Board of Education at the time ofthe formingofthe County Boards
In 1969.
Ms.Bishophad a passion forknowledge and learning and always keptthe best interest
of the students ^at she served in mind.IHer dedication and commitment was.,
unquestionable.
39-A.Conflicts of Interest are declared as recorded Inthe Report of the Committee
.of the Whole,item 42-C.
CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES
40'A.The minutes ofthe Regular Board meeting, 2000 February 22, are approved
on motion of Brock and Townshend.
REPORTS FROM THE ADMINISTRATION
41-A.Director's Announcements
DirectorJ.Laughlin announced that on 2000 March20, the CityofLondon's
Race Relations Committee presented an award to G. A.Wheable Centre for
Adult Education's Principal,Doug Fairbairn, and its English as a Second
Language Administrator, Mary Singeris,honouring theirefforts to stop racism
and tofightracial discriminationthrough the English as a Second Language
Program at Wheable.
The Directorreports that the Ministerof Education,Janet Ecker,announced
today that the Grade 10 Literacy Test will be introduced this September
however,successful completion of the test willnot be a diploma requirement
until 2001 September.
The report Is received on motion of Hart and Hunter.
41-B.Departmental Updates
The Administration present departmental updates on the following Issues:
2000 March 28...108
Business Services
•Professional Development session for all custodial/maintenancestaff
- Received information at OPSBAon Grant Regulations, prepared analysis
- Participatedwiththe ASBOBudget Task Force Committee
• Member ofthe OASBOAnnual Conference Planning Committee
-OASBO ConferencescheduledforMay10-12,LondonConvention Centre
-Attended the OSBIE Board of Directors'meeting
- MetwithBus Operators'.Association re: impactoffuelprices
- Meetingof Board's BudgetAdvisoryCommittee
- Budgetdevelopmentprocess for 2000-2001 has commenced
- 2000-2001 grant regulations released by Ministry on 2000 March09
-Payroll software application,Enterprise Systems integrator,purchased
- 2000-2001 salary and benefits costings being developed
•Payroll Services Help Line has been operationalfor seven weeks
•Annual pension reporting process completed for the Ontario Teachers'
Pension Plan Board
-Facility Services Computerized Project TrackingProgram implemented
'1999-2000 School Renewal Projects selections underway
- FacilityServices - Program Enhancement Project
-Participation inAreaStudy Committees by Facility Services staff
-Development ofGeneral Conditions and Requirementsfor Quotation and
Small Tender projects
-Building projectupdates re:Oxbow,Masonviile,Roosevelt,Woodstock
ElementarySchool Restructuring,Strathroy Multi-Use S.S. Project
- Implementation of New Code of Accounts In Maintenance
- Preparing cost estimates and schedules forMaintenance summer work
-Standardizing Maintenance Operating Procedures
-Review of Maintenance Vehicle Fleet
- implementation of portable inspection and repair procedures
• Operations Leaders have formed task groups re: system-wide Issues
- C.MacKenzie,R. Sims, Supply Management,earned Certified
Professional Purchaser (CPP)designation
- Supply Management staff represented on several Board committees
- Interdependent Department Committees formed to plan activities
-SupplyManagement personnel continue to providetrainingon Purchase
Requisition System
- SupplyManagementstaff Involved with Purchasing Cooperative,Ontario
Educational Buyers' Assoc., Ontario MunicipalSchool Board Consortium.
Director's Services
- The Director continues to tour schools,meeting staff and students
- J.Laughlin metwithC.Ouennevllie,OPSBA,re:at-riskstudents'programs
- The Board hosted the Regional Education Council meeting
• The Director represented CODE at the Ontario College of Teachers
2000 March 28...109
- J.Laughlin continues to meet withhis Leadership Group
-l\/1arch issue ofthe Board's monthlyreport,LINKS,distributed
- Several brochures beingdeveloped describing Board operations
• Developing introduction to Kindergarten and Secondary School booklets
-"Welcome to the PublicSchools of Thames Valley"bookletinprogress
- Workcontinuingon the nextsemi-annual Reportto the Community
- Development of a system profileof Board's 191 schools
-Promotional video re:Board's Attainment of the Vision initiative
-Electronic-Publishing and Graphics Unit assisting inthe development of
strong presentations for publicInformation pieces
• Public Affairs staff working closely with communitygroups preparing for
upcoming events
- Boarddesignation of EducationWeek •May01 - 05
- EducationWeek theme "Growing Together-LearningTogether"
- Staff assisting incoordination of"Principalfora Day"on April 12
- System-level development (fundraising)strategies being coordinated.
Human Resource Services
- Ad Hoc Committee School Council/Community Involvement developed
three draft Board policies
- Promotional practices In place re: anticipation of the need for additional
ElementaryVice Principal candidates forthe 2000-2001 school year
- Reviewofoccasional teacher applications with French and Technology
- Interviewed for pool hiring for FSL and French immersion teachers
-Onthe Apply To TeachNetwork{ATTN),1681 applicantsare Interested in
fulltime teaching withthe Board
- Benefits Manager,Peter Martin,commenced duties on 2000 March 20
-Attemptingto harmonize Board Employee Assistance Programs
Operations Services
•Attainmentofthe Vision,SchoolImprovement-Superintendents reviewing
- Projected enrolmentfigures agreed upon, basis forstaffingand budget
- School Renewal requests submitted,prioritized list to be established
-Meetingsre: school accommodation motionsapproved in principle
-School additionprojects progressing as anticipated
• Completionof Trillium implementationin secondary schools byMarch31
- FormerMiddlesexelementaryschools on Trillium implementationfor April
-Research &Assessment continuingwith assessments and sun/eys
-1999 EQAO assessment results reviewed.Board Level Action Plan
prepared
-Portable Protocols Committee proceduresre;airquality onwebsiteforlnput
- Steering Committee planning New Administrators'sessions
2000 March 28...110
Program Services
• Gearingupfor EQAO testingforGrades 3 and 6,the pilots forGrade 10
test ofreading and writing,and preparations forthe fall Grade 9 mathtest
• Annual "Skills-London, Oxford, Middlesex and Elgin"Science and
Technology event scheduled for April
-English as a Second Language delivery models being examined
-Ministry Curriculum Implementation update:elementaryand secondary
- SocialStudies: twonew unitsin progress •Grade 1 - LocalCommunities,
and Grade 6 - Aboriginal People and Early Explorers
-Writing team working on Grade 8 history unit-AChangingSociety
r Steering Committee established forSystem P.D.day •2000 October27
-Gauss Mathematics Contest for Grades 7 and 8, on 2000 May 17
- Wide area network deployment,Internet access connections ongoing
-InformationTechnoIogy reviewing final arrangement forvoicemailservices
to schools
•Increased capacity inBoard's connection to the Internet by Larg^Net
-Wotldng to standardize configurations for schools with Novell5 servers
•In-servicing and preparations underway for First Class E-mail and
Conferencing system-wide
- 425 Language Arts teachers in-serviced re:Balanced Literacy
- Varietyof In-service sessions in Language Arts being offered InMarch
The report is received on motion of Sutherland and Peters.
REPORTS OF COMMITTEES
42*A.Report of the Special Education Advisory Committee
Members
L.Stevenson,Chairperson E. Maybury
J.Bennett
C.Nurse (-i-2:10)
B.Hurwitz
W.Gowers
N.Gooding
M.Tucker (-2:35)
G.McGahey (+12:30)
P.Gallin
L.Vince
P.Gillls
L.Shainline
R.Teichrob
J.Worthington
Regrets:J.Townshend,E.Hager
2000 March 07
12:05 p.m.-3:10 pm
Administration and Others
P.Askey
A.Don^
K.Heffernan
R.Gronert
W.Scott
2000 March 28...111
Reports:
1. No conflicts of interest were declared.
2. Adiscussionwas held pertaining to the process and timelines for submitting
SEAC reports tothe Board,as well as the protocol for making amendments.It
was reported thatatthe regularBoardmeetingtheTrusteerepresentativeson
SEAC presentthe Committee's reportandhave an opportunity tospeak toany
items that may require clarification.
SEAC reviewsthe previous months report at the beginningof each meeting
and any changes/revisions are recorded inthe current report.
3. The agenda was confirmed.
4. The minutes ofthe 2000 February 01 meeting were reviewed.
5.Kyle Heffernan,Learning Coordinator,Special Education,presented the draft
pamphlet,entitled Community Involvement Special Education,ASuppiementary
Guide for Secondary Schooi Students and Parents. Copies of the draft
pamphlet were distributed.
A lengthy discussion occurred.
The rationale for the preparation of the pamphlet that will complement the
current Secondary School Reformdocument on Community Involvement and
providean additionalresource for parents/guardians duringthe IPRC process
was reviewed.Itwas requested thatthe information contained inthe pamphlet
be incorporated intothe Secondary School Reform documenton Community
Involvement rather than appear as a separate pamphletT The matter was
refen'ed back to the SEAC Ad Hoc Committee for further discussion.
Members were encouraged to submit their suggestions/input to Carol
Hawthorne, OAFCCD,priorto the meeting ofthe SEAC Ad Hoc Committee.
6. Patty Gillis,IntegrationAction Group,provided some ofthe highlights reviewed
at the Ministry of Educationmeeting held at the Mowat Block,Queen's Park,
Toronto,following the Minister's announcement of improved quality and
accountabilityinSpecial Education.Copies ofthe informationwere distributed.
Patty Giiiis advisedthata response has been prepared by several Associations
regardingthe AccommodationsPolicyforStudents withSpecial Needs forthe
Grade 10 Test of Reading and WritingSkills.Copies of the response were
distributed.
2000 March 28...112
7. Peter Askey,Executive Superintendent,ProgramServices, advised that the
specific details regarding theSpecialEducation funding envelope areexpected
to be released b/the Ministry withinthe next two weeks.
Copies ofa letter from Janet Ecker,Minister of Education,to John Laughlin,
Director ofEducation, pertainingto the newthree-year plan forqualitySpecial
Education was distributed and received.
Peter Askeyadvised that he has contacted the Regional Office ofthe Ministry
of Education regarding the status of the Ministry's response to the Special
Education Plan for 1999-2000 and has been advised that a letter is imminent.
8. Patricia Gallin,Autism Society Ontario,advised that plans are proceeding for
the SEACSpring Training Session to be heldonSaturday, 2000 April 01,at the
EducationCentre, London. Itwas reported that volunteers are needed forthe
Information Fair,and members were requested to submit names tothe SEAC
Communications Committee, or Steve Campbell,Program Services,as soon
as possible. Copies ofthe registrationformsforthe Training Sessions and the
Information Fair were distributed.
Individual Associations were reminded to submit their websites information to
Steve Campbell, Program Services,for Inclusion on the Board's Special
Education webpage.
The report was received.
9. Linda Stevenson,Chairperson,advised that she has contacted Lynn Ziraldo,
Chairperson, Minister's Advisory Council on Special Education, regarding
arranging a SEAC training session.LynnZiraldowould bravailable to conduct
a jointworkshop on either 2001 February 06 or 07 from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
The Committee'spreference was 2001 February07 and itwas agreed that the
Catholic Separate School Board and Western Region SEACs be invited to
participate. Chairperson Stevenson istocontact Lynnto confirm the date and
time.
10.The Noticeof Motionsubmitted at the 2000 February 01 meeting regarding the
Ministry's response to the Special Education Plan for 1999-2000 was
supported.
(see recommendation 1)
11.A lengthy discussion was held pertaining to questions raised at the SEAC
workshop held 2000 January 18.
Charts ofthe number of identified elementary and secondary students as at
1999 October, were reviewed and discussed.Becky Hunvitz,Association for
BrightChildren,emphasized the importance ofthe formalidentificationprocess
for ensuring that special education students are receivingthe programs and
services to make them successful.
2000 March 28...113
I
PaterAskey,explained thatthe Special Education Per Pupil Amount (SEPPA)
funds provide programs and resources to all students with special needs.
SEPPAmeetsthecostsofspecialeducationteachers,classroom supports,and
professionals and para-professionals (e.g.social workers,psychologists,
speech-language,physiotherapists,etc).
Clarification was requested for the definitions of "special needs" and
"exceptional needs".
During a discussion pertaining to the special education students attaining
secondary school credits,information was requested regarding Essential
Courses forpresentation at the 2000 April 04 meeting.
12.Itwas reportedthat the Behavioural Intervention ForumIs to be held 2000
iWarch 22 at SirGeorge Ross 8.S. The Forum Isa collaborative effort to link
community agencies with the Board to provide services to students with
behaviouralneeds.Membersinterested inattendingthe Forumwere requested
to contact Carol Hawthorne for further details.
13.An updateonthe Health Sen/IcesTaskForceactivities was submitted byAlison
Morse»Easter Seal Society. Itwas requested thatcopies ofthe information be
distributed with the next agenda.
14.Itwas reportedthattheAdHocSEAC Coordinating Committee forthe Review
oftheSpecial Education Planhas rescheduleditsnextmeetingto2000 l^^arch
20.The committee will be discussing staff development and planning the
recommendations for SEAC's consideration.
15.Theupdateofthe Regional Special Education Council'Meeting wasdeferredto
2000 April04.
16.Itwas suggested thatthe nextSEACwotlcshop be conductedonthe evening
of 2000 May3 or May10. The format will includethe Special Education Plan
reviewand a 2000-2001 Budgetupdate. The final date istobe confirmedatthe
meeting of2000 April 04.
17.Aletterto Janet Ecker, Ministerof Education,fromthe Director of Education and
the Chairperson of the Board reques^ng a meeting to address respite
transportation issues forchildrenwithrespite needs,was received.
18.The minutes of the Minister's AdvisoryCouncilon Special Education meeting
held on 1999 June 17 were received.
1g.A letter was received from Barbara Jones,Chair,Trillium Lakelands SEAC,to
the Ministerof Education expressing concern about Special Education funding
within the Province.
2000 March 28...114
20.The Committee then met in Forum.
Recommendation:
1. That SEAC request that the Board provide full disclosure of the Ministry's
response to the Special Education Plan 1999-2000 and that the Education
Officer from the District Office be invited to participateat the SEAC meeting
when the response Is discussed.
L.STEVENSON,
Chairperson
A motion by Vaughan and Hart that recommendation 1 be amended as follows,Is
adopted;
That the Education Officer from the District Office be Invited to
participate atthe SEAC meeting whenthe Ministry's response-to "
the Special EducaHon Plan 1999-2000 is discussed.
Thereportisreceivedandthe recommendation,as amended, Isadopted on motion of
Nurse and Smith.
42-B.Report of the Committee of the Whole 2000 March 21
7:00 p.m.-10:55 p.m.
Members
P. Jaffe,Chairperson A.Sutherland
D.Stewart P.Smith
R.Vaughan C.Nurse
S.Peters W.Brock
P,Schuyier J.Townshend
G.Hart A.Deathe
J.Hunter
Regrets:J.Bennett
Reports:
1.No conflicts of Interest were declared.
Administration and Others
J. Laughlin
P. Askey
P.Gryseels
B.Bryce
B.Greene
J.Empringham
G.Jazey
P.Menniil
C. Murphy
R.Murray
L.Peck
M.Sereda
J.Thorpe
R.Trahan
G.Treble
C.Graves
"E.Marentette
J.McKenzie
K.Busheil
G.Owens
.C.Bear
S;GalatI
S.Christie
A.Hogg
S.Lundrlgan
2.School Boundary Change •Village of Bright
The Administration presented a comprehensive report whichindicated the need
to reconfigure the school boundaries forthe Villageof Bright.
2000 March 28...115
TheBoardat its meeting on 1999 April 27,approvedthe recommendation"...
thatdiscussions occurwiththe communitywith respect toalteringboundaries in
BrightIn order to reduce the enrolment at Plattsville&DistrictP.S."•
Currentelementary students fromthe west side ofHighway22 Inthe Village of
Bright attend Hicl^on Central P.S.,while students on the east side of the
highway attend Plattsville &District P.S. This split In school attendance
boundaries for Bright dates backtowhen Hickson Central P.S. and Plattsville &
DistrictP.S.fell under differentschool Board juiisdictlons.
The Plattsville area is a growth area forresidentialdevelopment. The school's
Ministry rated Percent Occupancy is 139% as at October 1998 - 46% of
Plattsville &District P.S's 326 PTE students are accommodated in a portapak.
HicksonCentral P.S.has a Ministry rated Percent Occupancy of 82%with 338.
PTE students as at 1999 January 14.
Currently.43 students from25 families in Bright attend Plattsville&District P^S...
Ten of these students are registered In Grade 6 and 7.
Twocommunity meetings were held at each ofthe schools to receive Inputand
discuss .survey results. Amajority(70%) ofthe families affected who returned
the survey were infavour ofthe school boundary in Brightbeing altered.
ItIsanticipatedthat the current numberof buses serving Plattsville and Hickson
can accommodate the proposed boundary change at no additionalcost to the
Board. Thisincludesthe "grandparenting"fortwoyears ofthe ten currentGrade
6 and 7 students from Bright now attending Plattsville.
(see recommendations 1 and 2)
3.Harmonization of French Immersion Programs
Areportonthe Harmonization ofFrench ImmersionPrograms was presented by
the Administration.
French Immersioh programs provide opportunities for students to:
•achieve a level of bilingualisminwhichthey will be able to study, work and
live in either a French or an English language environment;
- heighten cultural awareness and appreciation of diversity;
- -Improve thinking skills,communication,andthe awareness ofthe relationship
between language and learning;
•enhance the range of opportunities available to them for life in a global
community and international marketplace as well as in our own bilingual
country;
-participate in a program pedagogically proven to benefit children (OlSE
research).
In developing the plans to support harmonization,there has been a commitment
to a change process that will:
2000 March 28...116
-reflect equity and fairness of.access in all regions ofthe Thames Valley
District School Board;
•provide French language Instruction to achieve the outcomes reflected in the
rationale;
- be based on the findings of language research;
-allow forgradualand flexible changes Inprograms,as required;
-allow forinput from thevariousstakeholders at each school;
-be sensitive to student needs;
- providean appropriate levelofhuman and economic resources to ensure a
viable,quali^level of programming;
-provide a continuum ofthe full Immersion program from elementary through
secondary.
In orderto move forward inthe harmonization process for French Immersion
programs acrossThames Valley,severalsteps are proposed,
(see recommendation 3)
4.2000-2001 School Year Calendars
Reports werepresentedbythe Administration onthe 2000-2001 School Year
Calendars to complywith Ministry of Education regulations inthe development
and approval of modifiedschool year calendars.
(a)2000*2001 Elementary and Secondary School Year Calendars
The calendars were developed inconsideration ofthe following priorities:
- adherence to Ministry of Education guidelinesfor the 2000-2001
school year (i.e., 194 school days, including no more than four
professional activity days between LabourDayand 2001June 28);
- an opportunity for one system-based professional activityday to
address Program Sen/Ices curriculum initiatives eariy in the school
year;
-maximizing transportation efficienciesby having both panels on a
common calendar.
Consultation has occurred with all stakeholder groups,as well as the
coterminous boards to maximize transportation efficiencies,
(see recommendation 4)
(b) Modified School Year Calendar for Sir George Ross Secondary
School for the 2000-2001 School Year
The modified School Year Calendar for Sir George Ross S.S.was
presentedforreview.Permissionis requiredfrom the Ministerto continue
to operate on a year-round basis as proposed.
(see recommendation 5)
2000 March 28...117
(c)Modified School Year Calendar for East Elgin Secondary School,
Norwich District High School and Glendale High School forthe 2000-
2001 School Year
The Administration reported that following discussions with Dr.Paula
Wanvick of the Governance Branch,the/were advised that former
Education Minister Johnson intended that this current school year would
be the last time that any calendar wouldbe approved for Thames Valley
which included fewer than the mandated 190 instructional days,
consistent with Regulation 304.At'the Administration's request,Dr.
Wanvick approached Minister Janet Ecker as to whether she would feel
similarly.Subsequently,we were advised from a representative of the
Governance Branch that no calendar would be approved unless it
included 190 instructional days.
The Administration reported that the tutorial program offered at the three
secondary schools is dependent on staffbeing available and,since staff
cannot be used twice, itis not possible to make up the days later Inthe
school year.While there continues to be support from the school
Councilsand the OntarioFlue-Cured Tobacco Growers'MarketingBoard
forthe delayed start, itis not possible to run it unless the delayed start is
approved.
Trustees indicated their wish to pursue the matter,and the modified
School Year Calendar showing a delayed start for East Elgin, Norwich
and Glendale Secondary Schools was distributed.
There are no additional costs to the Board or the schools;the industry
wouldcover costs associated withthe tutoring program.Savings would
be realizedforfour days of transportation costs not required on dedicated
bus routes.
(see recommendation 6)
Secretaiy's Note:Correspondence received from Minister Janet Ecker
related to the above,is included on the Regular Board
agenda for March 28 •Communications item 45-B.
5.Outdoor Education Centres
In order to have a consistent designation for environmental centres,name
changes were developed in orderto provide a uniformnaming convention forthe
four Outdoor Education Centres found in three of the four predecessor boards.
2000 March 28...118
The names reflect either the forest area used for most of the studies conducted
or the proximity to a local landmark.Vanslttart Woods is 80 hectares of
provincially-signiflcant wetland complexes of upland and scrub forests.Itwas
once the Vanslttart homestead, a family of significance inthe history of Oxford
County.The environmental centre attheJaffasitewas originally calledtheJaffa
school. Itwas named after the nearby hamlet ofJaffa.Westminster Ponds and
Pond Mills are the names of the respective conservation areas inthe City of
London.
Since all signs at each centre have to be changed to reflect Thames Valley
District SchoolBoard ownership,then the name changes will have no impactin
the cost of updating signage.
(see recommendation 7)
6. The Administration reported that a system master licence and corresponding
Academy of Reading software for schools will provide a major intervention
strategy to support students who are struggling with reading and reading
comprehension skills.
Overthe past ten years,approximately eightyschools across Thames Valley
have obtained sof^are for the Academy of Reading program (formerly called
Autoskilis Reading).The software exists in a variety of versions from DOS to
Windows and from single user to multiple user licences. The software has
undergonesignificant upgrades overthe past twoyears andhas been assessed
by Program ServicesstaffandSpecial Education teachers as a leadingproduct
on the market.
Academy of Reading Is a single-source supplier and a system master licence
would be in the best interests of the Board and the students for whom the
program is intended.
Atthis time,we are seeking Board approval to enter intocontract negotiations
with the supplier.The contract would enable schools to become involved at a
timeinkeeping with their priorities,and would supportthe Reading Intervention
initiative begun in February. Itis expected that credit would be obtained for
softwarepreviously purchased inorder that all participating schools wouldhave
the same version across the board.
A master licence would be obtained fora three year period withall costs covered
by Program Services within existing budget lines. Softwareobtained forthe
schools wouldbe a one-time cost withprovisionfornocost upgrades forfuture
versions.
(see recommendation 8)
2000 March 28...119
7. The Monthly Rnancial Statements as at 2000 January 31 were received.
Financial Statement •2000 January 31
Approved Budget 1999 June 22 $512 600 808
Add:Ministry of Education Additional Grants
Restructuring Funds 5 999 491
Curriculum Implementation Funds 304 648
W.D.Sutton Furniture and Equipment 7 464
intensive Support Amount (ISA 1}-Equipment 191 367
Grade 9 Textbooi^1 170 620
7 673 590
Add:Miscellaneous Revenue Items
1998-1999 School Budget Carryforward 5171 470
Registrations -Worltshops and Seminars 4 450
SAVE Conference •HRDC Grant 5 000
Madeline IHardy Casual Salaries and Supplies 30 611
Allocation
Food Services Rebate 301 867
General Interest Courses -Continuing Education ^3 400
5 516 798
Revised Expenditure Budget -2000 January 31 $525 791 196
Revised Revenue Budget -2000 January 31 $525 791 196
8.The Report of the Native Advisory Committee,which met on 2000 February 08,
was received.
9.The Report of the Ad Hoc Committee on School Councils/Community
Involvement, which met on 2000 February 23,was received.
a] An update was provided on the Committee's progress to date.
The Committee was established with representation from School Councils,
Home and School,principals,community representatives,trustees,
administrative staff,and students.The first meeting was held on 1998
June 18 and the following mandate was confirmed.
\
2000 March 28...120
Mandate:
(i)To prepare for the Board's consideration,a draft response to the
Education improvement Commission's (EiC)discussion paper The
FutureRoie ofSchoolCouncils".(ReporttotheBoardmeeting of 1998
September22,forsubmission to EIC notlaterthan 1998 October 08.)
(11)To identify "best practices"of parent organizations/community
involvement across the Thames Valleyand beyond.
(ill)Following the release bythe EIC of their report pertaining tothe role
ofschool councils/community involvement (expected 1999 February),
that recommendations be prepared for consideration In the
developmentofa community involvement policy bythe Board.
The Committee met several times to review the discussion paper and the
following recommendationwas approved bytheBoardon 1998 September
22 (Item 83-A):
That the response to the Education ImprovementCommission
on The Future Role of School Councils as prepared by the
Outcome Based Project Team - School Councils/Community
Involvement,be approved."
The response was submittedto the Education ImprovementCommission
on 1998 October 05.
The Committee continued to meet to identify and review the "best
practices" of parent organizations/community involvement across the
N system and beyond. In order to compile a draft report to assist in the
development and framework of a revised policy on Community
Involvement. This draft report would include,guidelines for School
Councils.Home and School,and other community groups.
The report on the Role of School Councils,The Road Mead -111",
released bythe EICin 1998 November,was reviewed bythe Committee.
Meetings were delayed for a year while waiting for the Ministry of
Education's response tothe EIC's Reporton the Role ofSchoolCouncils.
Although a response has notyet been received, (the release date is now
scheduled for 2000 September),the Committee expressed their wish to
proceed with developing a community involvement interim policy in
anticipation ofthe release.
b)An oven^iew on the developmentand the routing process ofdraft policy
statements was reviewed for the Committee.
2000 March 28...121
c) Aftera lengthy discussion period, the Committee developed three draft
interimpolicy statements for consideration by the Administrationand the
Policy Working Committee.
(1}It is the policy of the Board to support and encourage the active
involvementofallcommunity partners Inthe enhancement of student
learning, and to work In partnership withthem to that end.
(it)Itisthe policyofthe Board toworkin partnership withSchool Councils
to fulfill 1heirrole as currently outlined bythe provincial government.
(ill)It is the policy of the Board to recognize the Home and School
Associations and other parent and student associations as viable
partners at the school and board level.
d) The Committee agreed to schedule no future meeting dates until further
direction is provided by the Ministryof Education.
10.The Report ofthe PolicyWorkingCommittee, whichmet on 2000 March07,was
received.
a) The Administration introduced a draft policy and procedure on Reporting
Child Neglect and Abuse.On 1999 May 04, the Child and Family Services
Amendment Act,1999,received Royal Assent.It is understood that
theproclamation and implementation date will likelybe 2000 April 01.In
anticipation of these amendments,the Administration have addressed the
following issues over the past several months to ensure that the Board is
prepared in terms of appropriate procedures,protocol and employee
inseh/lce;
Development of Reporting Procedure
The new legislation broadens the reporting criteria and clarifiesthe dutyto
reportas a pe^onal dutythat cannot be delegated.The amendments have
a significant impact on allstaff in terms of responsibility for the protection
and well-being of children.
Consultation to Date
The reporting protocol and procedure has been developed Inconsultation
withour community partners.Supen^sory representatives from all three
children's aid societies that operate in the district provided their expertise
Inthe development ofthis procedure that supports consistency Inreporting
practices and responses,appropriate to the new legislation. The draft
procedure has been reviewed with Human Resource Services,the Director,
the Board's solicitors, and Operations Council. Board Chairperson Peter
Jaffe has also provided input Inlightofhis recognizedexpertise inthis area.
2000 March 28...122
Inservice Plan
An inservice plan has been developed that will support administrators,
teachers,non-teaching staffand volunteers inunderstanding thelegislation
and the recommended procedures.
The Committee suggestedchanges to be incorporated inthe policy and
procedures.Due tothe shortened timelines,the Administration would lil<e
tohavedraftproceduresinplaceto coincide with the implementation date.
Itisagreedtopostthe draft procedures onthe website for input.Thedraft
policy will be reviewed furtherat a futuremeeting.
b) The draft Foreign Students'Tuition Fees policy was Introduced by the
Administration.Suggestions weremadeto improve the clarity ofthe draft
policy and a revised policy will be reviewed bythe Committee at its next
meeting.
c) Part of the mandate for the Ad Hoc Committee on School Councils
/Community Involvement,istomakerecommendationsforconsiderationIn
the development ofa community involvement policy,following therelease
ofthe Education Improvement Commission's (EIC)reportonThe Roleof
School Councils,"The Road Ahead -111".Committee meetings were
delayed fora year whilewaitingforthe Ministry ofEducation's response to
the EIC's Report. Althougha response has not yet been received, (the
release date is now scheduled for 2000 September),the Committee
expressedtheirwish toproceed with developing a community involvement
interim policy In anticipation ofthe release. The Committee met recently
and developed three draftinterimpolicystatements forconsideration bythe
PolicyWorkingCommittee.
The Administration Introduced draft policies on Schoof Councils,Home&
School and Other Parent and Student Associations,and Community
Partner Involvement. After discussion,the Committee directed the
Administration to submitthe draft policieson School Councils,and Home
and School and Other Parent and Student Associations,to the consultation
process for input fromthe various stakeholder groups.
The draft policyon CommunityPartner Involvementwas referred back to
the Administration and the Ad Hoc Committee on School Councils
/Community Involvement forclarificationand revision.
d) The draft policy on Health and Safety,introduced at the February 01
meeting,was brought forward for further review.The Administration
reiterated the Occupational Health and Safety Act, Section 25 (2)
requirement that"an employer shallprepare ...a written Occupational
Health and Safety Policy..After a briefdiscussion, the Committee
directed the Administration to submit the draft policy to the consultation
process for input from the two Joint Health and Safe^Committees.
2000 March 28...123
e)Amendments to the draft policyon Assessment and Evaluation of Student
Achievement,whichreflectthe Committee's discussions on February 01,
were discussed and supported.
(see recommendation 9)
11.The Report of the Budget Advisory Committee, which met on 2000 March 07,
was received.
a) B.Greene,Executive Superintendent of Busiriess Services and Treasurer,
chaired the meeting for the election ofthe Chairperson.Trustee Hartwas
elected Chairperson for 2000,and assumed the chair.
b)The 2000-2001 budget development process was reviewed and the
Committeesupportedthe proposed budget timetable. Itwas noted that the
deadline for submitting budget estimates to the Ministry of Education is
2000 June15.
(see recommendation id)
c) The Administration presented the expenditure and revenue budget
assumptions.
(see recommendation 11)
d) When compiling the budget, itisintended toprovideadditional Information
on each department's identified key priorities and initiatives. To this end,
the Administration isdevelopinga Department Information Template. Each
department wouldcompletethe template with an overallone completedby
the Executive Superintendent.When an Initiative involves more than one
superintendency, e.g.Attainmentofthe Vision,a systiam templatewouldbe
completed.Thetypeof Information requiredby trustees^for inclusion inthe
template was discussed andthe following points were fdentified:
description and rationale ofthe major Initiative
number of staff Involved
number of students served
resources required
breakdown of required budget,and expenditures to date
any external grants received
Detailsofhow school-based and centrally-based funds are being spent in
schools,was requested.
e) The next Committee meeting is scheduled for 2000 April 04,3:00 p.m. -
4:00 p.m.
2000 March 28...124
12.The Report ofthe Information Committee ofthe Whole,which met on 2000
March 07,was received.
a)Committee Chairperson Joyce Bennett outlined what has occurred to date
regarding area accommodation studies.
On 1999 April 27,the Board approved that Area Accommodation Study
Committees be established for the Northbrae community,the Dorchester
area, and the Woodstock area.The Boarduses this process inorderto
receive public Input.The mandate ofthe study committees was two fold;
not only was It to look at viable options,itwas to identify related cost
savingsinorderto offset any expenditures requestedbythe community.
AnArea AccommodationStudy Committee was also established for St.
Thomas and area, to develop and recommend a school organizational
configuration.
The fourreports were fonvarded to the Board inearly November. Atthat
time, the Board approved In principle,the St. Thomas report since there
wereoffsetting savings.The Northbrae,Dorchester,and Woodstock reports
were referred to the Administration to report back to the board on 1999
December 07, with viable options because ttie three reports had
considerable expenditures and no offsetting savings.
The Board is no longerable to raise funds through local taxation and the
debt load ofthe school Board is increasing. At the same time,because
the Boardis under capacity, it will not receive provincial funding for any
major additions, new schools,or renovations.
Inorder to pay forthe capital costs in the future, hinds will have to come
from the day-to-day funding which is controlled by Uie province. The
dilemma for trustees is to find funds from ether areas In the budget.The
trustees do notwishto, norcan they take funds fromclassroom funding in
order to service the debt load.It Is for that reason that In this process,
trustees must determine what is a reasonable expenditure and how the
existing capacityinany geographic area can be usedtothebestadvantage.
Thiseveningthe reports from thefourareas, along with public input,will be
received.Trustees will commence debate on March 21, with possible
Board decision on March 28.
b) St.Thomas Area Accommodation
The Administration presented a report on the St. Thomas Area
Accommodation Study recommendations, approved In principle on 1999
December 21.The report included an implementation schedule,costing
estimates and methods to fund renovations.The report and
recommendation will be reviewed at the Committee of the Whole meeting
on 2000 March 21.
2000 March 28...125
c)School Area Accommodation Studies
(i)Woodstock and Area
Superintendent Murphy presented the Woodstock School Councils'
response to the Administrative options.
The Committee was requested to provide input regarding the
Administrativeoptions presented at the 1999 December 07 Committee
ofthe Whole meeting. Followingthe presentation,the Administration
responded to questions for clarification.
(ii)Northbrae P.S./Slr J.A.Macdonald P.S.
The response from the Northbrae Area Accommodation Study
Committee and representatives fromSir John A.Macdonald P.S. tothe
Administrative options,was presented by Superintendent Sereda.The
Committee was requested to provide input regarding the Administrative
options presented at the 1999 December 07 Committee of the Whole
meeting.Following;the presentation,the Committee and the
Administration responded to questions forclarification.
(iii).Dorchester Area
Trustee l^unter presented the Dorchester Area Accommodation Study
Committee's response to the Administrative options.The Committee
was requested to provide input regarding the Administrative options
presented at the 1999 December 07 Committee ofthe Whole meeting.
Following the presentation,the Committee and the Administration
responded to questions for clarification.
The reports were received and will be revlewed'at the Committee of the
Whole meeting on 2000 March 21.
d]The following individuals/groups,In addition to providing written
submissions,addressed the Committee with respect to the accommodation
reports:
NAME INDIVIDUAUGROUP
Woodstock Secondary Schools and Area Accommodation Study
Cecile l-loare Broadway Public School Council
Kelly Gilson Downtown Woodstock Business Improvement
Area
MaryAnn Blair,Chair College Avenue Secondary School Council
Michael Harding, Chair VictoriaSchool Council
Heather Deroo,Chair Central Senior Public School Council
2000 March 28...126
Greg Fullarton,Student Individual
Stephanie Piett,Students'Council,Woodstocic Collegiate Institute
Terri Pearson
Sue Davidson-Brouse Woodstock Collegiate Institute School Council
Steve Reesor Individual
MayorJohn Geoghegan Individual
Brian Brown Political Action Committee,OSSTF,District 11
Northbrae P.S./Sir J.A.Macdonald P.S.Area Accommodation Study
Jacqueline Whelpton Northbrae/Sir J.A.Macdonald Study Group
Dorchester Area Accommodation Study
Brenda Buis Northdale Central School Council
John Shanks Individual
Lynne Payne Lord Dorchester School Council
Dave Agombar Individual
Jamie Agombar,Individual
Student
Bryan Thomas Individual
Lorl Brett River Heights School Council
Monica Thomas Individual
Tim Topham Individual
Bill Norman Leesboro School Council
Randy Reid Individual
Other written submissions were also received.
13. The Report ofthe Development (Fundraising)Advisoiy Committee,which met
on 2000 March 08,was received.
a) The election of the Chairperson was held. Trustee Peter Jaffe was
elected Chairperson and assumed the chair.
b)Chairperson Jaffe welcomed everyone to the first meeting of the
Development (Fundraising) Advisory Committee and the members
Introduced themselves.
c) Noconflictsof interest were declared.
d) John Laughlin,Director of Education,presented an overview of the
challenges facing the Board and the Committee and the rationale for
investigating a system-level development effort.
2000 March 28...127
e)Background informationpertaining to the recommendations and guiding
principles developed by the Ad Hoc Committee on Education
Partnerships was provided.
The Board, on 1999 November 23,approved the Ad Hoc Committee on
Education Partnerships'recommendation to support the concept of an
enhanced centralized management unit or a Foundation which would
complement and buildupon present local and central fundraising efforts
In support of a caring learning community. The following guidelines for
the generation of new revenue and administration of existing monetary
supports were also approved;
-Educational Opportunities -that the enhancement of educational
opportunities forail students prevail as the fundamental principiein
allexisting and new revenue generating efforts;
-Equity -that a system-level development effort provide opportunity
forschools with additional needs and or limited abilities togenerate
supplementary funds;
-Communications - that strong and consistent Internal and external
communications be recognized as the foundation for an effective
development effort;and that communications clearly articulate the
reasons forwhich funds are being raised and for how these funds are'
making a difference In enhancing opportunities for students across
the system.
-School Loyalty -that system-level development efforts recognize
and support that families and alumni generally demonstrate first
loyalty to their neighbourhood schools.
-Coordination of Complementary Efforts -that a development
strategy recognize that school-level and system-level Initiativesneed
to complement each other;
-Centralized Management -that a centralized management structure
be supported for the generation of new revenue and administration
of existing monetary supports to ensure maximum efficiencies and
accountability (i.e., legal responsibilities,Revenue Canada).
-Development,Stewardship •that allstaff appreciate the importance
of buildingand nurturing relationships withour community;
-DonorA/oiunteer Recognition • that a recognition program be
developed that appropriately acknowledges the contributions of
individuals,community groups,corporate donors and volunteers.
2000 March 28...128
On 2000 January 25,the Board approved the establishment of an
Advisory Committee tosupport theAdministration in further investigating
and developing a strategic plan for establishing a system-level
development effort.
f)The frame of reference for the Development (Fundraising)Advisory
Committeewas presented,as follows:
- The Boardhas assembled a Development Advisory Committeeto
provide support and assistance to administration toward establishing
a system-level development strategy.
- The Committee's effort will be conducted in accordance with the
guidelines recommended bythe Ad Hoc Committee on Education
Partnerships.
-TTie worl<ofthe Committee will becompletedby2000September30.
g) The Committee's mandate isto provide valuable input toward:
-Assessing the viability ofa system-level development effort and how
this would compliment school activn'ty:
-Identifying the most appropriate vehicle -management unit.
Foundation or combination thereof for such an effort;
•Developing a legitimate case for support;
-Identification ofissues andchallenges(e.g.,ethical,legal,policy)and
proposed solutions;
-Shaping a development approachthatis unique tothe Board;
-Positioning ourselves for success.
h)Adiscussion was held regarding the current level offundraising activities
being conducted at the schools.It was suggested that a fundraising
survey be prepared to assess whatis occurring at schools acrossthe
District.Peter Gryseels,Executive Superintendent of Operations
Ser>^ces,is to provide a sampling of his department's data for
presentation at the April 03 meeting.It was emphasizedthattheclear
identification of school needs will be instrumental in developing a
legitimate case forcommunitysupport.
2000 March 28...12g
The importance of establishing partnerships with key community
organizations(e.g.GrandTheatre, Orchestra London,UWO)to enhance
education opportunities for all students was emphasized.
1)The Committee discussed the structure of its future meetings.It was
confirmed that morning meetings be held from 8:30 a.m.-10:00 a.m. on
the following dates:
April 03 June 05
May 01 September 11
j) The next meetingofthe Committeeis scheduled for (Monday,April 03 at
8:30 a.m.
14.St.Thomas Area Accommodation
The Boardat itsmeeting on 1999 December 21 approved the following motion:
'That the St.Thomas Area Study Report recommendations be approved
inprincipleand that the Administrationreport back to the Board by 2000
February 01 with respect to an implementation schedule,costing
estimates,and funding."
The following is a brief summary of the facility requirements along with
corresponding boundary lines and holding zones,and long-term planning
recommendations.
-Grade 7 and 8 be added to Balaclava Street P.S.
- Close the EariyChildhood Education Centre and have children attend their
home school
- Renovate Elgin CourtP.S. to accommodate JK/SK students
-Renovations for JK/SK at Myrtle Street P.S.
-Renovate for JK/SK class at Scott Street P.S.
-Close Mary Bucke P.S.and accommodate students at Forest Park P.S.
-Addition and renovations at Forest Park P.S.
The Administration supported this report In its entirety since the
recommendations are very sound educationally and the Committee fulfilled its
mandate.Expenditures are offset as there are corresponding savings.The
cost savings cited represent a payback period for the expenditures over a time
period fromimmediate,depending on the land sales,to 12 years ifthe land is
not sold.
Since 1999 December 07,the Administration has met with the School Councils
to receive their inputwith respect to timing. The renovations at allofthe sites
except for Forest Park P.S.could be accomplished this summer.Given the
desire ofthe Elgin Court P.S.community to delay one year,one ofthe buildings
at the Eariy Childhood Education Centre will remain open.Busing willcontinue
for students attending the Early Childhood Education Centre forthe 2000-2001
school year.
2000 March 28...130
The revised costing and funding with respecttothe renovations isas foiiows;
Costing Method of Funding
Grade 7 and 8 be added to $20 000
Balaclava Street P.S.
1999-2000 Program
Enhancement
(school renewal)
Close the EarlyChildhood
Education Centre and have
children attend their home
school
Renovate Elgin Court P.S.
to accommodate JK/SK
students
$399 t)00 LongTerm Debt
Renovations for JK/SK at.$219500
Myrtle Street P.S.
Renovate for JK/SK class $180 200
at Scott Street P.S.
Close MaryBucke P.S. and N/A
accommodate students at
Forest Park P.S.
1999-2000 Non-Allocated
School Renewal Grant
1999-2000 Non-Allocated
School Renewal Grant
Addition and renovations at
Forest Park P.S.
$2 430 000 LongTerm Debt
(see recommendation 12)
15.School Area Accommodation Studies
The reports from the School AreaAccommodation Committees for Woodstock
and Area, the Northbrae Area, the Dorchester Area, the Administrativeoptions
to the Committee reports, and the responses received from the three
communitiestothe Administrative options,have been reviewedand debated by
the trustees.The input received from the various communities was also
considered. (See Item 12 above, the Reportofthe information Committee of
the Whole, for additional information.)
(see recommendations 13,14,15,16)
2000 March 28...131
Recommendations:
n 1.That the HicksonCentral P.S.attendance area boundary In Bright be altered
-N ^effective for 2000 September,to Include all the lands within the boundaries of
the Village of Bright.
2. That students currentlyattending Grades 6 and 7 at Plattsville &District P.S.
may remain, if their parents/guardians so choose,for Grades 7 and 8 at
Plattsvillewith transportation supplied in accordance with Board policy.
3. That the following steps for the harmonization for French Immersion be
approved for 2000-2001:
- Entryto begin in Senior Kindergarten or Grade 1,dependent upon parent
choice.
- All programs to have a minimum of 70%French and a maximum of 30%
English. Specific sut^jects to be offered in the French component include:-
math, social studies,history/geography,French Language Arts,science.
- Formal instruction in English Language Arts to be phased In over a three
year periodInallformerLondon French Immersionschools. The phase-in
will begin with Grade 3 in2000 September and will move down a grade each
year for three years.
•Increased French Instruction to begin in former Elgin as the program
changes froma 50-50 to a 70-30 model. The gradual phase-In will begin In
2000 September and continue over a three year period.
•Expansion ofthe secondary school programs tobe encouraged forStrathroy
DistrictCollegiate Institute and Central Elgin DistrictCollegiate Institute to
meet the Ministry requirements fora full French Immersion program.
•f Adecisionon the preferredentrypointfor"late Immersion"to be deferred z'\
until release of a Ministry document expected within the-next few months.''
-Expansionoftheprogramto0xfordcountytobeginin2001 September.A
recent survey InOxfordindicateda strong base ofinterest.
- The Administration to examine the existing school boundaries where the
French Immersion Program is presently offered In order to streamline
transportation services and reduce riding time for students.Transportation
changes,ifthey are proposed,would not occur until2001 September.
4.That the Board approve for referral to the Minister of Education the 2000-2001
ElementarySchool Year Calendar and the Secondary School Year Calendar
for secondary schools not on modified school year calendars.
5. That the Board approve for referral to the Minister of Education the 2000-2001
School Year Calendar forSir George Ross Secondary School.
6.That the Board approve for referral to the Minister of Education the modified
2000-2001 School Year Calendar for East Elgin Secondary School, Norwich
District HighSchool and Glendale HighSchool.
200Q March 28...132
7.That the following name changes for the outdoor education centres be
approved:
Present Name Proposed Name
Pond Mills Outdoor Pond Mills Environmental Education Centre,
Education Centre Thames Valley District SchoolBoard
FieldStudies Centre, VansittartWoods EnvironmentalEducation
.Woodstock Centre,Thames Valley District School Board
Westminster Ponds Westminster Ponds Environmental Education
Outdoor Education Centre Centre, Thames Valley District SchoolBoard
Elgin County Outdoor Jaffa Environmental Education Centre,
Education Centre Thames ValleyDistrictSchool Board
8. That permission be granted for the Senior Administration to enter into
negotiations to obtain a system master licence and software for schools to
upgrade and extend the Academy of Reading program in Thames Valley
schools.
9. Thatthe policy onAssessmentand Evaluation ofStudent Achievement (see
page 139-141)be approved.
10.That the following budget timetable be approved:
2000 May 09 Committee ofthe Whole Budgetpresentation
2000 May 16 Budget Committee ofthe Whole Public Input (If required)
2000 May 23 Budget Committee ofthe Whole Revlewand Debate
2000 May 30 SpecialBoard Budget Approval
11.Thatthe following assumptions forthe 2000-2001 budgetbe approved:
BUDGET ASSUMPTIONS
REVENUE
General Legislative Grants
-calculatedas per Ministry ofEducation'sgrantestimates package using
enrolmentprojection information and other required inputs
Tuition Fees -Ncn Residents
-projection for First Nations'student enrolment based on 1999 October
actuals
- per pupil tuition fee based on Ministry of Education's grant estimates
package
2000 March 28...133
f
Municipal Tax Revenues
- residentialtaxes calculatedusingthe residentialpropertytax assessment
forthe calendar year 2000 and provincial mill rates
- commercialtaxes estimated using the prior year's commercialproperty
tax assessment adjusted for the growth In taxable assessment and the
change in the board's proportionate share of revenue between
coterminous boards
Miscellaneous Revenues
-estimated revenues based on historical information
EXPENDITURES
Salary and Benefits
- staffing Information
-elementary/secondary teacher,principal and vice principal staffing
levels based on revenues available fromthe Ministry of Education's
funding formula and determined by HR/School Operations staffing '
committee
- staffing levels for school based support staff based on revenues
availablefromthe fundingformulaand allocated byHRincollaboration
with the Principals'Council
>-staffing levels for central administration support staff based on
departmental input/confirmation sheets submitted by Executive
Superintendents
-Executive Councilapproval for proposed staff additions
-Board approved negotiation parameters
-salary information "^
- teachersalariescosted using current scattergram dataagedoneyear ',
-salaries and benefits calculated by Payroll Services using curr^t
salary grids
-Executive Councilapproval for potential salary increases
- Board approved negotiation parameters
Supplies,Services,Furniture &Equipment,Casual Salaries
- preliminary budget established based on prior year
-reallocation of existing budgets based on information provided by
Executive Superintendents
- Executive Council approval required forbudget additions/reductionsfor
new Initiatives or changes to the Board's priorities
- calculation of school allocations for a) supplies, services, furniture &
equipment, b) staff development and, c]casual salaries based on
allocation models used in 1999-2000
2000 March 28...134
School Renewal/Capital Projects
- based on revenues available from the Ministry's funding formula
- detailed listof projects approved bythe Board
Utilities
- based on estimatedenergy consumption and projected utility rates
Transportation
- service requirements based on identified needs
- as per Board policy
Capital Interest and Debenture Debt
- basedon existing repayment schedules for outstanding debenture debt
-based on Ministry's approved capital debt list for Interest on unfinanced
capital projects
12.Thatthe Administration commence to renovate the following schools consistent
with the St. Thomas Area Study Committee report recommendations,the
timelines specified below,and In accordance with the content and procedures
contained in the report.
(a) BalaclavaStreet P.S. 2000 September
(b)Early Childhood Education Possibly closeone building 2000
Centre September,the other 2001September
(c)Elgin Court P.S.2001 September
(d)Myrtle Street P.S. 2000 September
(e)ScottStreetP.S.2000September
(0 Mary Bucke P.S.Close 2001 September
(g)ForestParkP.S.2001 September
13.ThatdecisionsrelatedtoWoodstockCollegiate Institute be postponed until the
Committee ofthe Whole Boardmeetingto be held on 2000 April 11,with the
expectation thatany financial commitment by third party and/or The City of
Woodstock be specific andbe communicated tothe Board prior tothatdate.
14.That the follovwng recommendations forthe Woodstock and Area be approved
in principle:
(a)That Broadway Public School be closed effective 2001 June,with final
approval coming tothe June Boardmeeting;
2000 March 28...135
(b) That Victoria Public School continue as a JK-5 school whiie alternate
academic uses (i.e., French Immersion) are investigated and the results
are reported to the MayBoard meeting;
(c) That Northdale Public School become a JK-8 school effective 2001
September,and that the Administrationreport to the MayBoard meeting
with respect to scope,costs,Implementation schedule,and funding;
(d) That Central Senior School become a JK-8 school effective 2001
September and that the attendance boundary be changed to include the
Victoria and Broadway Public School attendance areas;and that the
Administration report to the May Board meeting with respect to scope of
renovations,projected costs,implementation schedule,and funding.
15.That the following recommendations for the Northbrae and Sir John A.
Macdonald Public Schools,be approved in principle:
(a) that Northbrae PublicSchool remain as a JK-8 school;
(b) that a new Resource Centre be builtalong with renovations to three
existing classrooms at Northbrae Public School;
(c) that boundaries be adjusted in order that approximately 150 JK-8
students be transferred to Sir John A.Macdonald Public School effective
2000 September;
(d) that the Administration consult with the community regarding the
boundary options for (c) and bring back a recommendation to the Board
in April;-'"
>
(e)that the Administration work with the community with respect to the
renovations for (b)and report back to the Board in May regarding scope
of the project,costs,and implementation schedule.
16.That the following recommendations for the Dorchester area be approved In
principle:
(a)that River Heights Public School become JK-3;
(b)that Northdale Central Public School become grade 4-8 with
administration to meet with community representatives and school
representatives to develop a plan for renovations to Northdale Central
PublicSchoolto accommodate this change,and that Administration report
back to the May Board meeting with respect to scope,costs,and
implementation schedule.
P.JAFFE
Chairperson
r
2000 March 28...136
The report is received and recommendations 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10,11,and 12,are
adopted on motionofBrockand Stewart.
Recommendation 13 is adopted on a pollvote as follows;
YES Stewart,Vaughan,Peters,Hart,Hunter,Sutherland,Smith,Townshend,Jaffe
NO Nurse,Brock
Recommendation 14 Is adopted on a poll vote as follows:
YES Peters,Hart,Sutherland,Smith,Townshend,Jaffe,Stewart
NO Vaughan, Hunter, Nurse, Brock
Recommendation 15 Is adopted on a poll vote as follows:
YES Peters, Hart, Hunter, Sutherland, Smith, Nurse, Brock, Townshend, Jaffe,
Stewart,Vaughan
NO Nil .
Recommendation 16 is adopted on a poll vote as follows:
YES Hunter,Sutherland,Nurse,Townshend,Jaffe,Stewart,Vaughan,Peters
NO Hart,Smith, Brock
42-C.Report of the Committee of the Whole 2000.March 28
Reports:
1.Trustee Jaffe declared a conflictof interest with respect to negotiations, and
absented himself during discussion of same.
2. The Committee met from 5:00 p.m. to 6:05 p.m. and discussed confidential
personal,negotiations, and property matters.
Recommendations:
1.Thatthe resignations toretirementforthe following teachers be accepted under
the mutual consent clause,effective dates as indicated:
Name Retirement Date
Pamela Boucher .2001 November 30
Ingrid Clark . 2000 September 30
J. R. Gall -2000 September 30
Joseph Hubbard - 2001 September 30
Kenneth Mizon .2000 April 24
2000 March 28...137 .
Nama Retirement Date /
RobertRepa . 2001 February28
BeppyStevens . 2000September30
Sheilagh Zeeman . 2000 October 31
2.That the resignations ofthe following teachers be accepted under the mutual
consent clause,effective dates as indicated:
Name Resignation Date
Andrea Emrich -2000 f^arch 31
Mary Ann Rsher . 2000 February29
Phillip Mercer . 2000 February29
3.That thetentative agreement reached with CUPE Local 4222B (Secretarial and
Clerical Unit)be ratified for the period 1999 September 01 to 2001
December 31.
D.STEWART
Chairperson
The report Is received and the recommendations are adopted on motion of Stewart and
Vaughan.
Trustee Nurse is absent during voting.
MOTIONS -NOTICE OF WHICH HASBEEN GIVEN
43-A.None at this time
ADDITIONAL BUSINESS
44-A. Ontario PublicSchool Boards'Association-Update
Trustee Brock provided an update on the OPSBA 12"Annual General
Meeting,hosted by theOPSBA's Western Region,planned for 2000 June15-
18 at the London Convention Centre. The theme of the conference is
"Students First - A Call to Action".Speakers from Fanshawe College,the
University of Western Ontario,the Ministry of Colleges and Universities,the
Ministry of Education,a judge with the Peel County Court,and Peter Jaffe,
among others,will be participating in the presentations offered.
The reportisreceivedon motion of Brock and Nurse.
COMMUNICATIONS
45-A.Received 2000 March 03 from Peter Moffatt,Director of Education and
Secretary,GrandErie District School Board,as follows:
"At the meeting on February 28,2000,The Grand Erie District School
Boardapprovedthe following resolution:
2Q0Q March 28...138
THATthe Grand Erie District SchoolBoard request the Ontario
Public School Boards' Association to lobb/for one publicly-
funded school system whichwould serve the needs of students
Inthe two official languages of Canada,and
THATthis letterbe shared withthe other publicschool boards
in the Province of Ontario.
Received on motion of Brock and Townshend.
45-B.Received 2000 March 22 from Janet Ecker, Minister of Education,as
foliows:
"RecentcommentsmadebyThames Valley District SchoolBoardstaff
in the London Free Press would lead readers to believe that the
Ministry of Education will not allow for a.delayed start to classes in
tobaccobelt schools.tp allowstudents toworkonthe han/est.Thisis' "'
simply nottrue and Iarn writing to set the record straight.'
The Ministry isquite prepared to approve a delayed start tothe school
year In order to allow students to work on the tobacco harvest.
However, what is at issue here is the Board's compliance with the
Education ActandRegu!ation304,School Year CaIendar\r\^o\BX as it
requiresthat each school inthe provinceprovide 190 Instructional days
per year.Tlie proposal submitted to the Ministry provides foronly 186 '
instructional days.This is simply unacceptable.
The board has many options available to it without simply denying
students four days of instruction.Other boards,such^s the Grand Erie
District School Board and the Brant-Haldimand-NorfoIk Catholic District
School Board have accommodated community needs by
rescheduling/reducing teacher professional development days and/or
cutting back on holidays.
"1 am sincerely committed to ensuring that all students in Ontario
receive the number ofinstructional days providedforInlegislation. This
beingsaid, Iurge you bringforwarda modified school calendar which
responds to community needs without denying students their rightto
the benefit of the instructional days they are entitled to.
Received on motion of Brock and Townshend.
ADJOURNMENT
The meeting adjourns at 8:45 p.m. on motionof ^^^u;art and Peters.
CONFIRMED:
2000 March 28...139
Thames Valley District School Board poLiev
Title ASSESSMENT AND EVALUATION OF
STUDENT ACHIEVEMENT
Policy No.'
Department OPERATIONS SERVICES.
PROGRAM SERVICES
Status
Reference(s)*•The Ontario Curriculum,Grades 1-8 Effective
>Ontario Secondary Schools,Grades 9-12 oate
^The Ontario Curriculum,Grades 9 and 10,
Program Planning and Assessment
Guide to the Provincial Report Card
It isthe policy ofthe Board that assessment and evaluation ofstudent achievement be
conductedinaccordance with the philosophy and direction ofthe Ministry of Education
through adherence tothe guidelines which follow.TheBoard believes thatassessment
and evaluation are integral partsofthe learning process. Assessmentand ey^.uation
ofstudentachievementensure thatstudents acquirethe knowledge,skills andvalues
essential for full participation in society emd promote the best possible use of
educational resources.
1.0 Definitions:
Assessment:The collectionof data about student achievement using a variety of
means and procedures overtime.
Evaluation:The process of judging the quality ofstudent performance in the
assessment and of assigning a value to represent performance based on
established criteria.
Achievement:Student performance.
2.0 The Ontario Cum'culum.Grades 1-8 and the Program Planning and Assessment
guide for grades 9-10 state The primary purpose ofassessmentand evaluation
isto improve student learning.Information gathered through assessment helps
teachers to determine students'strengths and weaknesses intheirachievement
ofthe curriculum expectations.This information alsoservestoguideteachersin
adapting curriculum and instructional approaches to students'needs and in
assessingthe overall effectiveness of programs and classroom practices."
Inaccordance with Ministry policy,assessments andevaluationswithin the Board
will serve the following purposes:
2.1 to improve student learning through the provision of clear,acxjurate
information about student achievement,
2.2 to provide for the Improvement of teaching and learning practices and
instructional programs.
2000 March 28...140
2.3 todeterminethe degree to which expectationsofthe Ontario Curriculum are
being met.
2.4 to ensure accountability and to contribute to the enhancement'of quality
education within the Board.
3.0 To ensure that assessment and evaluation are valid and reliable,assessment and
evaluation strategies withinthe Board will:
3.1 be fair,consistent,objective and appropriate,
3.2 be precededby criteria regarding expectations and standards which have
been cleariy communicated to students,
3.3 provide ongoing opportunities forstudentsto demonstrate fully their level of
achievement in a variety of contexts,where applicable,
3.4 include accommodations and/or modification for those students where there
is a cleariyarticulated and justified rationale fordoing so,
3.5 emphasizeperformance-baseddemonstrationsofstudent learning,
4.0 To ensure that assessment arid evaluation lead to the improvement of student
learning,assessment and evaluationstrategies within the Board will;
4.1 respect students as active participants Intheir own learning,
4.2 bean integralpartofthe instructional process and based onthe expectations
of the Ontario Curriculum,
4.3 foster opportunities for students,teachers and parents to plan for
improvement.
5.0 Research and Assessment Services will manage implementation of district,
provincial,nationaland internationalgroup assessment programs.Additionally,
Research andAssessment Services staff will provide and support,for school use,
awiderangeofgroup assessment instruments.These assessment materials may
be used on a system-wide or optional basis to measure student achievement,
monitor theprogressofschool improvement plans,andprovideinformation which
will lead to improved instruction.
6.0 Asteering committee will directimplementation ofgroup assessment programsin
accordance withBoard and Ministry policy.The committee will be composed of
a supervisory officer,the Chief of Research,school administrators,teachers,
parents and system resource personnel.The committee will provide an
update/report to the Board on an annual basis.
7.0 Communication about assessment and evaluation will be conducted in
accordance with Ministry requirements.Reporting of student achievement will:
7.1 Involve a variety of formal and informal communications that are ongoing,
clear and meaningful,
2Q0Q March 28...141
7.2 describe student progress towards achiewng the expectations of the Ontario
Curriculum and provide specific suggestions for students,teachers and
parents to plan for the Improvement oflearning,
7.3 in the case of district,provincial,national and international group testing
programs,be publicly reported,as applicable,and as directed by the
Education Quality and Accountability Office (EQAO)and the Board.
8.0 Notwithstanding,article 4,assessment and evaluation information relating to
individual students shall be kept confidential and be available only toa student's
"•teacher(s).All procedures relating to assessment and evaluation (for example,
the collection,maintenance,use and reporting of results)will be conducted with
sensitivity and discretion within the provisions of the Municipal Freecfom of
infomation andProtection ofPrivacyAct
9.0 •Operations Sen/Ices and Program Services will develop guidelines to ensure
effective implementation of the assessment and evaluation policy.
Administered By OPERATIONS SERVICES,Board Resolution/
PROGRAM SERVICES Date
Date of Last
Amendment