January 5, 2010
Hopkinton School District School Board
School Administrative Unit #66
Meeting Minutes
January 5, 2010
IN ATTENDANCE:
School Board: Chairman: David Luneau, Vice Chairman: Elizabeth Durant, Kim Fuller, Louis Josephson (arrived at 6:55pm), Larry Donahue, Student Representatives: Emma Brown, Noah Meister (absent)
Administration: Superintendent: Steven Chamberlin, Business Administrator: Michelle Clark, Director of Student Services: Dr. Valerie Aubry, Director of Technology: Matthew Stone, Principals: Michael Bessette (absent), William Carozza, Christopher Sousa, Assistant Principal: Christopher Kelley (absent)
CALL TO ORDER AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE:
School Board Chairman, David Luneau, called the meeting to order at 6:32pm. Merle Dustin, community member, led the meeting in the Pledge of Allegiance.
SUPERINTENDENT ADDITIONS/DELETIONS TO AGENDA:
None
CORRESPONDENCE:
None
APPROVAL OF MINUTES:
Motion to approve the minutes of the regular board meeting held on December 1, 2009 was made by Mr. Donahue, seconded by Ms. Durant, (Mrs. Fuller abstained), all in favor, minutes carry.
Motion to approve the minutes of the regular board meeting held on December 8, 2009 was made by Mrs. Fuller, seconded by Ms. Durant, (Mr. Donahue abstained), all in favor, minutes carry amended as follows:
Page 2086, line 20: Mr. Meserve believes that kids should not pay to play high school and middle school sports.
Motion to approve the minutes of the regular board meeting held on December 15, 2009 was made by Ms. Durant, seconded by Mrs. Fuller, (Mr. Donahue abstained), all in favor, minutes carry.
PUBLIC COMMENT (1):
Merle Dustin, community member, asked how many new students we anticipated registering, as a result of the closing of the Hopkinton Independent School. Mr. Luneau stated that Mr. Chamberlin would be commenting on this during his report tonight.
COMMENTS FROM THE HOPKINTON SCHOOL BOARD
Ms. Durant thanked Mr. Bessette and Mr. Carozza for the success of the Artist in Residence programs held today at Harold Martin School and Maple Street School. Kelly Doremus Stuart who is going to be the Artist in Residence for the next month, brought members of Petit Papillon student dance troupe to perform for our students. Ms. Durant believes that this will be a unique opportunity for us, as a district, to do a slightly different Artist in Residence program this year.
Mr. Donahue commented on Marion Paxton’s resignation from the budget committee. He is disappointed to be losing her because he found her comments on the last failed teachers contract to be helpful and supportive. There was some innovation in there and she was a supporter and he wanted to recognize her for that support.
Mr. Luneau mentioned that the Board is particularly proud of establishing the Hopkinton Schools Foundation to help enhance public education in Hopkinton. The closing of the Hopkinton Independent School also saddens him. Both of his children spent some prekindergarten time there and it was very good.
STAFF REPORTS AND PRESENTATIONS:
Mr. Chamberlin reported that Mr. Bessette is not here tonight, as he is home with a sick child. Also, Mr. Kelley is also not here tonight, as he is home recovering.
a. Principal Reports
William Carozza, Principal Harold Martin School
Mr. Carozza stated that the closing of the Hopkinton Independent School saddens him as well – he had a lot of respect for the school. It is a fine school and the summer and afterschool programs were great. He has received a number of telephone calls regarding preschool and other grades.
Mr. Carozza reported that he has posted pictures on the Harold Martin School website from today’s activity for the Artist in Residence Program.
Mr. Chamberlin asked Mr. Carozza how many calls for enrollment he has received so far? Mr. Carozza stated that he has enrolled two kindergarten students, received five inquiries for preschool, and one inquiry for out of district tuition.
Mrs. Fuller asked if there were any spots available in preschool. Mr. Carozza stated that there might be one, because of an added special ed child.
Mr. Donahue asked Mr. Carozza if he understood correctly that there would be another preschool opening if another special needs student were enrolled. He asked what the block would be to bringing in more typically developing students to get the numbers to 50% – either way it is additional revenue. Mr. Carozza stated that he wanted to keep the class size to around thirteen, adding that they need to keep students with special needs below 50%.
Dr. Aubry stated if the proportion of special needs students rises above 50%, the state would designate the program a special needs education placement, which would change the parameters in terms of teacher-student ratios.
Mr. Luneau stated that regarding the principal’s report and the superintendent’s report that are to be printed in the town report, that people reading the town report are not familiar with terms such as power standards, RTIs, and CPI. Mr. Luneau suggested maybe using different terms.
Christopher Sousa, Principal Hopkinton Middle High School
Mr. Sousa stated that when writing the report it gave him an opportunity to look at the year so far and what has struck him the most. He is so pleased with the generosity (that naturally comes to our kids) of the students to raise money to help others. Also, the wonderful service projects the students provide to the community and surrounding areas – this is an amazing part of our school. He also highlighted on the Class M Sportsmanship Award, which reflects the character of our school. Mr. Sousa commented on the amazing history of the world language exchange programs – traveling, making connections that last for many years. Mr. Sousa stated he is pleased with the innovation and success of the Z-Block component.
Mr. Luneau stated that he has received feedback from a junior and Z-Block has worked out very well for her.
Mrs. Fuller asked about Back to Hopkinton. Mr. Sousa stated that it is scheduled for tomorrow beginning at 2:15pm.
b. Superintendent Report
Steven M. Chamberlin, Superintendent of Schools
Mr. Chamberlin commented on the sadness of the Hopkinton Independent School closing. He stated that on Monday the phones started ringing with inquiries on tuition and the application process. His son participated in the summer program and loved it. Also, he spoke to Paula Demers this week regarding keeping the Beech Hill Players going.
Mr. Chamberlin took a few moments to reflect on the number of board meetings, stating that he is grateful – this board has worked extremely hard. He added that there has been a lot of change in the district and he appreciates everyone’s support.
Mr. Donahue commented on the number of board meeting, stating that it is clearly the efficiency of the meetings; because when we’re here we’re getting a lot done. Mr. Donahue added that it is a reflection of the whole team who prepares and facilitates these meetings.
ITEMS FOR SCHOOL BOARD DISCUSSION
Mr. Chamberlin gave an overview of the 2010-2011 budget development process and a brief account of the budget proposals. Mr. Chamberlin handed out the Hopkinton School District 2010-2011 Expendable Trust/Capital Reserve Proposal.
- 2010-2011 Expendable Trusts/Capital Reserve Funds; School Building Repair and Maintenance Expendable Trust Fund, Educating the Educationally Disabled (Special Education) Expendable Trust Fund, Health Insurance Expendable Trust Fund, Vehicle Capital Reserve Fund (Action Item)
Mr. Luneau asked board members for their thoughts on the recommended amounts proposed by the superintendent.
Mr. Chamberlin stated that this year, the recommendation is to not add to the Educating the Educationally Disabled (Special Education) Expendable Trust Fund. The current value is $167,000.
Mr. Luneau stated that this trust fund was not added to last year; the last time it was added to was in 2008 in the amount of $25,000.
- School Building Repair and Maintenance Expendable Trust Fund: $75,000
- Health Insurance Expendable Trust Fund: $25,000
- Vehicle Capital Reserve Fund: $25,000
Ms. Durant stated that the average expenditure for the Repair and Maintenance Trust, going back to 2005-2006 averages around $72,000. Where are your thoughts in estimating $40,000 for the next four years?
Mr. Chamberlin stated that he felt it was reasonable, as they do not have any pending big-ticket items coming up.
Mrs. Fuller asked if it was a risk not funding the Educating the Educationally Disabled Expendable Trust this year, but was in agreement if Mr. Chamberlin (and everyone) was comfortable with this.
Dr. Aubry stated that it was a balance of risks and she was all right with it.
Mr. Josephson stated that you go on the data you have and the needs you know about – it sounds reasonable to him.
Mr. Luneau stated that the School Board’s first presentation to the Budget Committee would be on Wednesday, January 13, 2010.
Ms. Durant asked what was the provision to dissolve trusts in the event that they are no longer necessary. Ms. Clark stated that it would be put on as a warrant article.
- 2010-2011 Hopkinton School District Budget (Action Item)
At this time, Mr. Chamberlin passed out a revised 2010-2011 Hopkinton School District Proposed Budget Summary and a draft of the Hopkinton School District 2010-2011 Budget Information dated January 5, 2010.
Mr. Chamberlin gave a quick review of the operating budget. He stated that it does include an additional $450,000 that will be offset by revenue.
Mr. Donahue asked what was behind the $450,000 revenue. Mr. Chamberlin stated that the audit looks at everything we spend on education. This year, between the ARRA Funds, possible Race to the Top Funds, the increase in IDEA, and Title I we will exceed the budgeted $300,000. Mr. Chamberlin stated we would be cited in the audit if we do not budget enough for our federal projects. Ms. Clark stated that the state would cite us as well.
Mr. Luneau asked if these were grants that we applied for during the school year. Ms. Clark answered yes.
Mr. Chamberlin explained that the proposed budget is essentially last year’s funds plus two interactive whiteboards and social studies and math textbooks.
Mr. Josephson stated that he appreciates Mr. Chamberlin’s shorthand for the board, but feels it is a bit of a disservice, because it takes a lot of work to come to this number. Mr. Luneau stated that Mr. Chamberlin shortchanged the process. The bottom number is the same as last year, plus two interactive whiteboards and some textbooks, but every row has changed. Mr. Chamberlin stated the amount of work and time that goes into the creation of the budget is extraordinary. Further stating that the goal is to maintain the quality of schools, while respecting the capacity of the community.
Mrs. Fuller stated that everyone has done an exceptional job.
Mr. Donahue asked for the 66.82% on the Proposed Budget Summary be changed and to add the total percentage at the bottom of the page.
Mr. Luneau stated that he wants to make sure that the Board is aware of what is being proposed and what is being acted on tonight is less than what was being talked about three weeks ago, minus several items that were up for consideration.
Mr. Chamberlin stated that they’ve tightened the budget and it is the budget with the right balance at this time.
Mr. Luneau stated the he liked the fact that we can make some progress – it is an investment in the future and the direction our district should be going in (using more technology in the classroom).
Mr. Donahue stated that we are not hurting the education level and he is impressed at Mr. Chamberlin striking the right balance.
Ms. Durant commented that all the people around the table have done a great job.
Mr. Donahue stated that we should not forget the people on both sides of the negotiating teams.
Mr. Luneau will have something for the Budget Committee tomorrow night to look at and will present a very high level presentation of what the goals are behind the budget.
- Program Expansion: Middle School Sports
Mr. Chamberlin stated that as you can see a recommendation or warrant for middle school sports was not brought forward. Mr. Chamberlin has received excellent feedback and believes there is a lot of support to expand middle school sports, but is this the right time. Mr. Chamberlin stated that he feels more time, more feedback, and more answers to many questions can make a stronger case for the community.
Mr. Donahue stated that he does not think that consideration at this time can be done without looking at sports and athletics in general. This is a perfect opportunity to test us on our ability to get beyond the comfort zone with H20. What is it we look to get from our athletic programs? Mr. Donahue feels that this is a great opportunity to step back and look at things creatively, which he fully knows is within the capabilities of the Leadership Team.
Mr. Luneau stated that he appreciates everyone’s effort particularly Dan Meserve and Dave Chase. He agrees with the superintendent on this, and from what he has heard from the community there are a tremendous number of stakeholders who have a deep understanding of our current middle school programs. Mr. Luneau stated that next year they would get their input to help craft a proposal to the superintendent that will benefit the whole district.
Mr. Donahue asked if the budget they are voting on includes the current year’s middle school sports or last years. Mr. Chamberlin answered the current years.
Mr. Josephson stated that he wanted to say for the record that he is supportive and thought Dan was eloquent in his argument, but he believes the argument is to slow it down to make sure we have a thoughtful, quality process, which outweighs the impatience that he is sympathetic to.
- Emergency Preparedness: Acquisition of a generator
Mr. Chamberlin stated that he has not been able to find out if school districts can access FEMA funds. Also, we have not been able to have a joint board meeting. It is his understanding that the Town of Hopkinton is not moving forward with 50% of the 50% share. Mr. Chamberlin stated that there is not a recommendation of a warrant to put in for 50% of the 50% of a generator. Mr. Chamberlin stated that we could put a one-dollar placeholder in a line, but he is not recommending this.
Mrs. Fuller does not support the one-dollar placeholder. Mr. Luneau stated that another FEMA opportunity might come up down the road. He does not recommend funding the one-dollar placeholder. Mr. Luneau stated that public safety is the role of the board of selectmen.
- Monthly Financials – November 2009
Ms. Clark stated that she was more optimistic in the food service revenue, which is why there is slightly higher deficit from the month prior. For the most part, we are on target with revenue and expenses, but the federal reimbursements have been delayed because they are going automated. At this point, $463,500 is the anticipated unreserved fund balance.
Ms. Clark reported on the scheduled start of the POS system: February 4. They will begin at the middle high school, with the elementary school the week after.
PUBLIC COMMENT (2)
David Lancaster, community member, stated that he thinks people will be shocked that he will be asking for a higher town budget – he is going to propose the generator. He believes that it makes more sense that the funds come from the town.
Mr. Lancaster stated that the town is shortsighted with capital reserve funds – he thinks it is good the school district is doing this.
10. MATERIALS INCLUDED
Principal Reports
Superintendent Report
2010-2011 Expendable Trust/Capital Reserve Proposals
HESS Contract Summary (Confidential)
Warrant for the 2010 Annual Hopkinton School District Meeting – Draft
Monthly Financial Report November 2009
11. IMPORTANT DATES
- January 9, 2010 H1N1 Clinic
- January 12, 2010 School Board Meeting (Contracts)
- January 13, 2010 Budget Committee Meeting (Town Hall, 6:30pm)
- January 19, 2010 School Board Meeting
- January 20, 2010 Budget Committee Meeting (Town Hall, 6:30pm)
ACTION ITEMS
12. Hopkinton School Board approve the superintendent’s recommendation to establish an article for the 2010 School District meeting which authorizes the raising and appropriating of $75,000 and the transferring of $75,000 from the unreserved fund balance to the School Building Repair and Maintenance Expendable Trust Fund.
A motion was made by Mr. Donahue, seconded by Ms. Durant, motion carries, all in favor, not opposed.
12. Hopkinton School Board approve the superintendent’s recommendation to establish an article for the 2010 School District meeting that creates a Health Insurance Trust Fund and authorizes the raising and appropriating of $25,000 and the transferring of $25,000 from the unreserved fund balance to the Health Insurance Expendable Trust Fund.
Mr. Donahue made a motion, seconded by Ms. Durant, motion carries, all in favor, not opposed.
14. Hopkinton School Board approve the superintendent’s recommendation to establish an article for the 2010 School District meeting that creates a Vehicle Capital Reserve Fund and that authorizes the raising and appropriating of $25,000 and the transferring of $ 25,000 from the unreserved fund balance to the Vehicle Capital Reserve Fund.
A motion was made by Mr. Donahue, seconded by Mrs. Fuller, motion carries, all in favor, not opposed.
15. Hopkinton School Board adopt the superintendent’s recommended 2010-2011
Hopkinton School District Budget at the $16,103,592 funding level.
A motion was made by Mr. Donahue, seconded by Mr. Josephson, motion carries, all in favor, not opposed.
NONPUBLIC SESSION
16. Nonpublic Session for the Discussion of Matters as Per RSA 91-A: 3, II (a)
Negotiations
At 8:00pm, Mr. Donahue made a motion, seconded by Mrs. Fuller, that the Board enter into nonpublic session in accordance with RSA 91-A: 3, II (a) for discussion on negotiations. Motion passed on a roll call vote: Ms. Durant (yes), Mrs. Fuller (yes), Mr. Luneau (yes), Mr. Josephson (yes), Mr. Donahue (yes) all in favor, not opposed.
RETURN TO PUBLIC SESSION
At 8:33pm, a motion was made by Mr. Josephosn, seconded by Mr. Donahue, to return to public session, motion passed, all in favor, not opposed.
17. Adjournment
Respectfully submitted, Jean Eaton
