Park Forest-Chicago Heights School District 163 Observer Reports

League of Women Voters^®
of the Park Forest Area

Park Forest-Chicago Heights School District 163 Observer Reports

These are the LWVPFA observer reports of Park Forest-Chicago Heights School District 163.

Report on SD 163 Meetings, Jan 9, 2012 , by Suzie Brown

FINANCE COMMITTEE Present were: Jacqueline Jordan, Walter Mosby, Melvin Pumphrey, Shirley McDonald, Margaret McDannel, and Lance Jefferson.
Black Hawk 5th-graders presented essays they had written in response to reading about the civil rights history, particularly the letter written by Martin Luther King while in the Birmingham jail. These essays were very thoughtful.
The best three months of attendance during the last year averaged 1,720, which is more than1,000 more than the previous best three months. This will give us $400 more in state aid.
Lease agreements will either be extended or go out for bid, with action in February. Bids for internet contracts and for a school vending machine agreement for Mohawk and Forest Trail are due by the February board meeting.
Over the Christmas break all tile floors in the schools were refinished. Custodians worked very hard to accomplish this in eight days, even though this was not in their contract.
REGULAR SESSION
Mrs. Matyasec, Director of Instructional Services, presented a comprehensive report on how the 21st Century Learning Grant is used. It includes an after-school remedial and enrichment program, homework help, teaching students how to write and meet goals, mentors, adult education, and summer school. There are 377 students reached by these programs. One new part is a meal served to students involved between 2:00 and 3:00 p.m. The tutoring and homework help programs are from 3:00 to 4:30 p.m., and enrichment is 4:30 -5:30 p.m.
Community partners in these programs are Beacon Hill Youth Committee, Legacy Student Development (which works on behavior intervention), Rich high schools (for tutoring), and New Dimensions in Learning (for consultation).
Black Hawk School had the highest attendance with 95.3%. Mohawk was second with 95.27%.
A Superintendent Evaluation Committee, which included Melvin Pymphrey, Jacquelin Jordan, Shirley McDonald, and Lance Jefferson, was selected by President Mosby. this committee and the Facilities Committee will meet on February 13, 2012.
Forest Trail has been selling snacks at basketball games, etc. and have raised $900, which was donated to Rich Food Pantry.
Chief Butz and the Park Forest Police Department were commended for their community services project in which they gave Forest Trail students a shovel to use in shoveling snow for seniors and others. Prizes and gift certificates will be awarded.
A woman addressed the board to ask when she can speak to them about a wrongful termination. This will take place on Feb. 2.

Report on SD 163 Board Meeting Dec 5, 2011, by Suzie Brown

Present for the Regular Meeting were: Melvin Pumphrey, Margaret McDannel, Shirley McDonald, Cheryl Franklin, Lance Jefferson, Jacqueline Jordan, and Walter Mosby. The meeting began at 7:06 p.m.
Cheryl Franklin indicated that the Black School Educators Conference she attended was very good. No details were given. Melvin Pumphrey and Walter Mosby attended conferences and told the board that they were also good. Margaret McDannel went to the state school board conference in downtown Chicago.
Karon Nolen reported that ISAT preparation night for parents will be Dec.14.
During the public hearing about the 2011 tax levy we were told that the 4.97% tax increase will be an actual increase of 1.5%.
The board and visitors went into the 21st Century gym for a program by the district choir, which was excellent.
When the board meeting resumed, Forest Trail students did a presentation in 3D on the smart board showing building a house, a bedroom, windows, and landscaping. This was quite interesting.
Supt. Carmine reported that the district received a 21st century grant of $700,000. Three hundred forty-seven students receive math and reading help after school. The Smart program now receives a meal after school.
Mohawk School had the best attendance record last month at 96.8%. Forest Trail was second with 96.37%
The board approved a visitor management system for all schools at $9,006.

Report on SD 163 Meeting November 7, 2011, by Suzie Brown

FINANCE COMMITTEE-6:00p.m. Present were: Lance Jefferson, Jacqueline Jordan, Melvin Pumphrey, Shirley McDonald, and Margaret McDannel. Cheryl Franklin arrived at 6:55 p.m. Walter Moseby arrived before the regular meeting.
During public comments Suzie Brown praised the work of Shaunita Jones in presenting the Park Forest History curriculum to 4th and 5th graders at Black Hawk School.
A presentation by the architect highlighted possible changes and recommendations for savings to the Forest Trail addition. We can access additional funds, according the Dr. Carmine, but it may not be as easy as the first funding. This is all under capital development.
A public hearing will be held for a levy which will increase by 4.97%. Because this is an assessment year, we may get a 0% increase.
The Guardian Dental Insurance renewal will increase 3$ for HMO and 6% for PPO.
The Blue Cross Blue Shield insurance renewal will increase 6.4%.
A program called First Tee, which emphasizes positive skills and life skills through golf and sponsored by the Glenwood PGA, was discussed. They would provide equipment at a cost of $2300 per school for six schools and later $3200.
Using Constellation Energy's Residential Program at a lower cost than Com Ed was discussed, but more information is needed.
The board voted against students taking home Comcast flyers.
REGULAR SESSION-7:00 p.m. The dedication of the district board room in the 21st Century Media Center in honor of Virginia Ford was held with refreshments and a program by students. Virginia Ford was on the District 163 School Board for many years and also served a long time as its President. The media center will be named the Virginia Ford Media Center/Board Room.
Supt. Carmine reported that Mohawk School had the highest attendance level for the month at 96.8%. Three schools met the 95% goal.
Black Hawk School Family Science Fair will be held November 17, from 6:00-8:00 p.m.
Jacqueline Jordan was appointed the delegate to the IASB/IASA.

Report on SD 163 Meeting October 3, 2011, by Suzie Brown

Education Committee: Present were Margaret McDannel, Shirley McDonald, Melvin Pumphrey, Jacqueline Jordan.
The SEEK report told about the work of the committee, which includes environmental education, reading, math, professional development on the common core standards, the accelerated plan for reading skills by 2013, math leadership, etc.
A report was also given by Marianne Matysek on the new Scott Foresman reading materials, "Reading Street," which District 163 has adopted. This is the first new adoption in eight years. Some teachers piloted the program last year. Tier 1 provides basic instruction. Tier 2 provides some intervention. Consultants will be here to train teachers. It is tied to technology online, and linked to science and social studies. It also provides opportunities for writing.
$18,000 was made from last year's golf outing, and this may be used to get more computers in each classroom. Presently, there are two, and each school has a computer lab.
The Freshman Academy was discussed. All students will have an accelerated curriculum, which will better prepare them for high school. Ongoing communication with Rich East helps facilitate this. Four 8th-grade classes and two 7th-grade classes are studying high school algebra. Thirty 8th-grade students are going to Rich East for Spanish. Seventh-graders will soon be going, as well. One science student takes a course at Rich East.
In special education, the district has red-flagged students who did not do well on the ISAT. Monthly monitoring is given. With resource help, some feel these students spend too little time in class. Annual reviews are now given all year. The 2011 Year-end Report indicated that there are 437 students in the district who scored 50% in reading and 58% in Math.
Regular Session: Lance Jefferson and Walter Mosby arrived. Cheryl Franklin was absent.
The first bicycle was given to a 21st Century School student whose attendance, class work, and behavior are exemplary. This is a Park Forest Police Department program. Supt. Carmine reported that four schools achieved 95% attendance in September. District enrollment is 130 students higher than last year.
A proposed after school program by the Greater Faith Baptist Church Youth Group was discussed. Margaret McDannel questioned the fact that it was a religious group.
The District 163 School Board attended a Meet-and-Greet gathering with the Park Forest Village Trustees which was quite successul. The Illinois School Board Association has developed an evaluation tool for the Superintendent and methods for team building by the board.

Report on SD 163 Meeting Sept 12, 2011, by Suzie Brown

Finance Committee - 6:00 p.m. The following people were present for the meeting in the newly-remodeled 21st Century Preparatory Center: Lance Jefferson, Shirley McDonald, Margaret McDannel, Melvin Pumphrey, Walter Mosby (arrived at 6:25 p.m.)
An agreement with Chicago Office Technology Group involving district copiers and printers was discussed. They will partner with Zerox to get the best prices through the state. U.S. Bank will roll over our agreement with them with no buyout penalty. The new copiers will have printers and fax machines, and the agreement will include maintenance for parts, labor, and supplies at a cost of $14,713 per month. It is a four-year contract, with no increase for the first three years. The fourth year there will be an increase no more than the cost of living. There will be two new black and white copies in each building, and a centralized color copier in the district office. With the new faster copiers, the district will save $24,000.
Bids will be taken on the Forest Trail building remodeling in February, 2012. Construction will begin in April. Asbestos will be removed, some parts will be demolished, and renovating will be done. The entire project will be completed between April and June of 2014. Shirley McDonald had a question about the air quality for students during the construction.
Dr. Carmine reported that the district enrollment is up by 100 to 1,920 students. We have received a 5% cut in state aid. A fifth-grade teacher has been added at no extra cost, since one reading specialist has been removed. In order to get the pre-K program funded by the state, we need 200 students registered by Oct. 15. One hundred fifty-seven pre-K students have been screened. Other screening dates are September 30 and October 7. Various methods have been used to publicize the screenings. Dr. Carmine indicated that they are looking into partnering with day care facilities.
Budget Hearing/Regular Meeting - 7:39 p.m. Jacqueline Jordan arrived at 6:55 p.m. Cheryl Franklin arrived at 7:10 p.m.
During a presentation of the 2011-2012 budget, it was shown that we will receive $562,000 less in state aid. Expenditures will be $1.8 million less than last year. $6 million is kept in reserve. The total budget will be $24,271,272. $20 million in bond money is for the capital projects at 21st Century and Forest Trail.
A Friday Teacher Institute on differentiation and focusing will be led by district principals. Blackhawk School will have GSU teachers in training helping on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Forest Trail will continue activities related to bullying and getting help for difficult situations. Seventh graders will have early bird Spanish this year. Eighth graders already have Spanish. Forest Trail has held 91 conferences with parents.
Five schools had 95% attendance for August. A report on the summer school program showed that the 6th and 7th grade students who had scored below the ISAT goals and the honor students attending showed improvement.
The board voted to name the Media Center/Board Room for Virginia Fort. Lance Jefferson thought the board would be meeting at Forest Trail.
The Village of Park Forest requested a meet-and-greet with the District163 Board on September 19.
There was considerable discussion about two conferences. One is the National Alliance of Black School Educators, which meets in New Orleans November 18, 19, and 20. Several board members want to attend. The other one is the National School Board Association Annual Conference in Boston April 21-23, 2012. Four board ,members want to attend that. Because of budget constraints, Shirley McDonald and Margaret McDannel said they will not attend either conference.
Note: I made a public comment (without wearing my LWV badge) with the suggestion that other boards usually send one or at the most two people to such conferences, especially when there are budget constraints.
Suzie Brown

Report on SD 163 Meeting Aug 1, 2011, by Suzie Brown

Finance Committee
Present at the meeting, beginning at 6:00 p.m., were: Lance Jefferson, Jacqueline Jordan, Melvin Pumphrey, Shirley McDonald, Margaret McDannel, and Walter Mosby, who arrived at 6:12 p.m.
A temporary budget for the 2011-2012 fiscal year showed a deficit of $199,000. This budget was approved in order to retain the retired personnel used in the important district intervention program. Through the state cooperative purchasing networks of National Office Furniture and Hahn the district will purchase district office furniture for 21st Century.
Mrs.Brennan's 8th grade math class had 92% who met the state math standards this last school year. The district is working on a grant application of $650,000 to restore cuts made in after school, summer school, and adult programs. The idea of charging for the spring musical was discussed.
Regular Meeting
Cheryl Franklin arrived for this meeting.
The first day of school is August 25. Five hundred students are registered. Other registration days are Aug. 3 and Aug. 17. It is sometimes Sept.15 before all students are registered. About 2,000 students are expected. Two staff positions are still open. There will be an administrative retreat to discuss objectives, district plans, monthly explicit plans, etc.
Contracts for retired personnel working in reading and math were approved. Revisions in district policies on discipline and social networking were tentatively approved.
Agreements with the Cooperative Purchasing Network and the National Intergovernmental Purchasing Alliance Co. were accepted for purchasing district furniture.
It was reported that nine 8th-grade students signed up for the new charter school. There were about four honor students. Two were from the gifted class.

Report on SD 163 Meeting July 11, 2011, by Suzie Brown

Finance Committee
Present were Margaret McDannel, Lance Jefferson, Shirley McDonald, Melvin Pumphrey, Jacqueline Jordan, and Walter Mosby. It was reported that District 163 received financial recognition from the state superintendent because of its financial responsibility. We also received a $785,000 grant for our pre-school program for three to five-year-olds. This grant will enable the district to retain two teacher assistants. Some of the grant will go toward the $200,000 deficit in the budget. We continue to subsidize gym uniforms at a cost of $6,000 per year.
The board expressed consensus for budget plan A, which does not cut the intervention program by retired teachers in reading. They work three days a week and are paid the equivalent of a school secretary's salary. They work with about 70 students each. The final budget will be voted on in September.
Regular Session
(Cheryl Franklin was absent.) Margaret McDannel reported that the June golf outing, a fundraiser for District 163, was quite successful. Forest Trail had a June attendance of 95.97%, the highest in the district. In terms of state standards, Forest Trail had 88% of its students meet the state criteria in reading and math. The district average was 82% in math and 78.8% in reading.
The food service agreement with Preferred Foods was approved by the board. Beacon Hill School was approved to be used for a summer camp. The District 163 Board will meet with the Park Forest Village Trustees in late July or early August.
Shirley McDonald requested that a fine arts goal be added to the five other goals for 2011-2012, and the board agreed.
$10.00 will be added to student fees for the 2011-2012 school year to cover field trips. The present fees are $50.00 plus a $10.00 activity fee. There will be a decrease in the cost of worker's compensation coverage. The new food service program will pilot at Forest Trail in September and proceed to the other schools after winter break, at a cost of $89,200.
Miss Valente reported on the summer school program for the summer of 2011. Twenty-one sixth-grade students and 22 7th- grade students received attended math classes. Also attending summer school were 12 honors students.

Report on SD 163 Board Meeting May 2, 2011, by Suzie Brown

Finance Committee - 7:00 p.m.
Present were Jacqueline Jordan, Walter Mosby, Melvin Pumphrey, Shirley McDonald, and Margaret McDannel. Cheryl Franklin arrived at 7:30 p.m., and Lance Jefferson arrived at 7:45 p.m. At first, the Finance Committee did not have a quorum, so there was only discussion of the agenda
A presentation by Blackhawk Intermediate Center on reading strategies and bullying included grade 4/5 students as authors being questioned.by other students and roleplaying bullying situations and their solutions.
A risk management plan involving how to allocate torte funds was discussed. 2% will be eliminated. Anyone who does business with the district must be paid prevailing wages. Next year there will be a 6th grade at Mohawk, as well as Forest Trail. There will be a 3% increase in the ombudsman service agreement. Next year there will be no rooms for Speed at Mohawk. They will have to go downstairs at Forest Trail.
Special Session/Regular Session
Dr. Carmine was elected President of the Board pro tem, and Shirley Mcdonald was elected Secretary of the Board pro tem. Walter Mosby was re-elected Board President for two years, and Melvin Pumphrey was elected Board Vice-President for two years. Jacqueline Jordan was elected Board Secretary for two years. The time of the board meetings was set on the first Monday, with the FinanceCommittee Committee at 6:00 p.m., and the RegularCommittee at 7:00 p.m.
Mohawk School had the high attendance at 96.3% All other schools were at 95% or above. New teacher, Matthew Bonnic introduced himself. Three teachers are retiring. There are two new teachers.
Mr. Convoy, Business Manager, was approved to prepare the 2011-2012 fiscal year budget. The last day of school will be June 16, with two emergency days. A 7th-grade Springfield trip was approved. A $598 a month lease for a bus garage with Park Forest Auto Service was approved. A district early retirement policy was adopted.

Report on SD 163 Board Meeting April 4, 2011, by Suzie Brown

Finance Committee
In attendance were Lance Jefferson, Jacqueline Jordan, Walter Mosby, Margaret McDonnell, Shirley McDonald, Melvin Pumphrey, and later Cheryl Franklin.
Marty Blaies presented several students who told about their science projects as part of the Mohawk Science Depot. These very interesting experiments involved sprouting, composting, cars with battery and solar power, and barn owl pellets. The students have worked to establish a family Audubon Society, which will meet at the Aqua Center classroom near the wetlands.
The maintenance service renewal agreement was discussed. The first option on the agreement will have a 1.5% increase. The halls, classes, and gyms will be shower scrubbed, which will be stipulated. The first phase of our $13,000,000 funding bonds will be used to pay off our revenue bonds. We are not ready to decide about rental space with SPEED.
The board voted to setup an exploratory committee to look into the possibility of setting up a foundation to help raise funds for programs or projects that were cut because of budget cuts. Several board members, principals, and others volunteered to be on such a committee. Suzie Brown was invited to be a community representative, but declined because of lack of time. She made a statement about how time consuming such a foundation and fund raising would be.
Any budget increase over 10% requires an amendment to the budget. Mr. Convoy will bring a report about this to the board.
Several board members visited the Blue Island schools to see their bulk food program, in which they serve the food in bulk. The Preferred Company will start binging bulk food to Forest Trail next fall.
Regular Session
Dr. Carmine reported that Forest Trail had 96.7% attendance last month. The middle schools were all at the goal of 95%.
A report on special education school improvement data about preparation for the ISAT was given. There are three self-contained special needs classes. They receive an alternate assessment. Their sub skills in reading are measured, and then instruction is geared to these specific skills. What the student needs most is targeted. A few students improve enough to be able to take the regular ISAT tests. This sounds like a very thorough intervention program.
The regular education and special education transportation agreements will be signed with no cost increase. The Cloverleaf milk agreement will also be signed with no increase.
The contracts of three first year teachers and one part-time gifted teacher will not be renewed. All schools will receive sidewalk repairs and tree trimming this summer. Bid specifications for asphalt repairs will be published.
Mr.Jefferson asked the board to consider a request from his church to put up a sign on the school property at Algonquin School. This was discussed briefly, and the opinion of a lawyer will be sought.

Report on SD 163 Board Meeting Mar 14, 2011, by Suzie Brown

We were treated to a program by the Kindergarten and First Grade students, and the first, second, and third place winners of the Science Fair presented their projects. These were sixth and seventh-grade students.
Finance Committee
Walter Mosby and Cheryl Franklin were not there, but came later.
The old bid from Planera on the Junior High renovation is too high and not cost effective. It will be rebid. The asbestos and life safety work at Sauk Trail is approved. District administrative personnel and 21st Century Preparatory Center students should be able to get back into their building the end of July. Students have been meeting on the lower level of Blackhawk School while the work has been going on. Cloverleaf Dairy wants to extend our milk agreement for one year at the same price. The transportation agreement goes out for bid next year. Renewal of our auditing agreement with Legacy will require a 3% increase. Food service will be increased by 1.3%. Board members were invited to see Blue Island's food service program. They have fresh pizza, a salad bar, and "kickin chicken." Students apparently like our food better this year. There is a salad bar. Pricing will be researched toward a natural gas agreement. Average daily attendance was 88% for the first three months, which is down. ISAT tutoring after school was reinstated with grant funds. Special education has a grant for car transportation.
Regular Session
Walter Mosby arrived. Forest Trail had the highest monthly attendance at 94.2%. The Black History Month programs were applauded. With encouragement from the principals and teachers, parent participation as volunteers has improved. The adult literacy program (using computers) has fifty people participating, and they have asked to have it extended. There will be a fund-raising golf outing sponsored by the district at University Park Golf Club in June. Besides golf, the $25.00 tickets include dinner and jazz. The purchase of a Grand Caravan at $17,000 to transport children was approved. The contract for the district office asbestos abatement was awarded to Safe Environment Corporation. New bids were requested for the district office renovation project.

Report on SD 163 Board Meeting Feb 7, 2011, by Suzie Brown

Education Committee
A 21st Century Preparatory School presentation included a song and dance called "ISAT Survivors" about studying and doing your best on the tests this spring. There was also a presentation by students on vocabulary using media and the library. In addition, six students from Grades 3-6 received science fair awards for excellence. A demonstration of the pilot PAL program showed how two students work together in partner reading and paragraph summary. Online professional development for teachers was shown, as well as the adult literacy program, which has 44 participants and 4 classes including introduction to computers, digital imaging, photos, etc. This six-week program provides child care and snacks.
If the district does not receive its usual $1.5 million in federal funding this year, plan A would involve a $900 deficit, which could be handled with teacher retirement, etc. There would be no academic impact. Plan B would include some academic impact, and Plan C would have a big academic impact (jobs and academic program cuts).
Two District 163 principals will be presenting at the February 10 NCOB Conference in Chicago.
Regular Session
Mohawk, Beacon Hill, and 21st Century Schools are again Spotlight schools because of their academic achievement and numbers of students on free or subsidized lunch. Mohawk has been a Spotlight School for more than five years.The new census shows there is more poverty in District 163 families.
Forest Trail had the best January attendance, with 95%.
Because of the January 26 death of Virginia Ford, past President of the District 163 Board for many years and board member for even longer, the district library fund will be named the Virginia Ford Library Fund. Shirley McDonald, a former board member, will return to finish out Virginia Ford's term.

Report on SD 163 Board Meeting Jan 10, 2011, by Suzie Brown

Finance Committee
Present were: Melvin Pumphrey, Jacqueline Jordan, Margaret McDannel by conference phone, and later Mr. Jefferson, Mr. Mosby, and Cheryl Franklin. Jacqueline Jordan chaired the meeting until Mr. Mosby, Board President, arrived.
The Forest Trail Junior High chess group reported that they had won first place in the Mayor Daley Chess Tournament and showed their trophy. Mr. Pumphrey started chess instruction at Beacon Hill School. The group won out against such schools as Winnetka, which spends the most per student of any district in the state. Dr. Carmine will have a pizza party for them in her office.
Sixth graders in the stock market game won first place in the region.
Capital projects--There is still work to be done on the life safety projects at Beacon Hill and Mohawk Schools. February bids are due on the district office renovation and architectural plans for the Forest Trail project. Also included in the five-to-eight- year facilities plan are new sidewalks at 21st Century and Algonquin, tree trimming and striping this coming summer.
The district's annual financial report received a 3.6 level, the highest level.
The federal school and library contract for districts with free and partially-paid lunch gave us a 90 rating and discounts on computers. We will apply now for next year.
Dr. Carmine wants to create a district foundation. A lawyer will explain this on January 31 at 5:00 p.m. During January and February district staff will tutor students preparing for the ISAT. Money for the tutoring was cut from the budget for this year, but money from a Title I grant will pay for it.
Regular Session
Forest Trail had the highest December attendance--94.6%.
Dr. Carmine reported that we are on target with our current budget. For the next budget, $1 million will be cut. Six board members will attend the National School Board Association , April 9-11, 2011, in San Diego.
Meeting adjourned.

Report on SD 163 Board Meeting Dec 6, 2010 by Suzie Brown

Prior to the Public Hearing, at 6:00 p.m. the writer attended a delicious dinner for the board and school principals served in the Library at Forest Trail School.
Public Hearing: Present were Lance Jefferson, Cheryl Franklin, Jacqueline Jordan, Walter Mosby, Melvin Pumphrey, and Margaret McDannel. This was a hearing on the 2010 tax levy for $14,000,000 in general obligation bonds for the renovation of Forest Trail School. There were no public comments. During the regular session this tax levy resolution was passed.
Regular Session: Those attending the board meeting were treated to a number of seasonal selections by the district choir. Three Junior High students presented their program on bullying for 3rd - 8th grades. Some were members of PAC, Principal's Advisory Council, which is like student council. Their theme is "Bullying is lame. Don't play the game." The students are given pledge cards not to bully, and also receive bracelets that say, "Be a buddy, not a bully." They have presented this program at Blackhawk School, and will do it next at Mohawk School. The three students also showed us a video about their program. When asked by the Superintendent, the three students indicated that the students like the new salads served at the Junior High, which include craisins and nuts and cheese.
Supt Joyce Carmine announced that Mohawk School had top attendance at 96.1% for November. The other schools were close. The Park Forest Fire Department presented a trophy to Blackhawk School for first place in the Bucket Brigade contest, in which students carried buckets of water to a designated place, practicing the way fires were put out long ago.
The board watched a DVD of the Channel 5 coverage of the District 163's Veterans Day project in November.
Supt Carmine shared her way of dealing with students sent to her for various infractions. They must watch the history channel for two weeks and write an essay on what they see. They must also read for 120 minutes a day.
A change order in the amount of $897,000 was approved for roof structure replacement and related work at Mohawk School. An application for room utilization at Algonquin School for church services was approved. A learning technology center central letter of agreement in the amount of $4,000 was approved. A school energy efficiency project grant of $450,000 was received. The retired teacher contract was approved.
Margaret Mc Dannel and others expressed their desire to go to the National School Board meeting in April. Early registration is cheaper.

Report on SD 163 Board Meeting Nov 1, 2010 by Suzie Brown

Finance Committee -7:00 p.m.
Present were Melvin Pumphrey, Margaret McDannel, Walter Mosby, and Jacqueline Jordan. Absent were Virginia Ford, Lance Jefferson, and Cheryl Franklin.
The Board and other attendees were treated to a very impressive progam by some Beacon Hill kindergartners highlighting their phonics program and the theme, "Are You Smarter Than a First-Grader?"
The Board accepted the lowest bid by Skyline for refuse and recycling disposal service for $38,360. A change order for roof structure replacement and related work at Mohawk School will give the district $39,058 back. Included in the work will be a new sidewalk and seal coating the drive.
Blue Cross/Blue Shield insurance will be renewed for this school year at a 7.77% increase, down from a 10.77% increase. This will result in a savings of $100,000.
A Chevy Tahoe truck needing basic repairs is worth about $1,000. The Board directed Business Manager Conboy to look for used pickups that are one to two years old.
Plans were presented for the new secure entry at 21st Century School. A music and art room will be added, and other rooms will be rearranged. There will be one pre-kindergarten room, two kindergarten rooms, one first-grade room, one second-grade room, three third-grade rooms, and one special education room.
Regular Meeting - 8:00 p.m.
Lance Jefferson and Cheryl Franklin arrived at 8:17.
Supt. Carmine announced that there will be celebrations on Tuesday, Nov. 2, at Governors State University at 9:00 a.m. and 11:a.m. to honor the five district schools which were ranked by Chicago Magazine to be in the top 300 elementary schools in Cook County. She explained that each subgroup must attain the current Average Yearly Progress level and be there all year. On the other hand, for the School Report Card, if a student is there the day of ISAT, it counts. These have not been published yet. Supt Carmine lauded the work of all the administrators, teachers, and students. In addition, she reported that 180 Forest Trail students are taking high school algebra.
A December 6 public hearing will be held on the 2010 levy.
The Guardian Dental Insurance contract renewal was approved for one year at a 3% increase. The Board appointed Jacqueline Jordan as their delegate to the IASB/IASA Conference.
On November 10, from 10:00 -1100 a.m., there will be a breakfast at Forest Trail for those WWII veterans who were interviewed by students last year. Their interviews will be shown on a DVD.

Report on SD 163 Board Meeting Aug 2, 2010 by Suzie Brown

Finance Committee (7:05 p.m.) Present were Melvin Pumphrey, Virginia Ford, Margaret McDannel, Walter Mosby (7:14 p.m.), Jacqueline Jordan (8:20 p.m., Lance Jefferson (7:30 p.m.). Cheryl Franklin was absent.
Lombard was the low bidder at $1,246,000 on the 21st Century structural renovation project, which includes 22 classrooms where asbestos must be removed and flooring replaced. The work at Mohawk involves 16 classrooms where asbestos must be removed and overhead structural repair must be done. It will cost slightly more than the 21st Century repair. The board is looking into the possibility of renovating a bathroom at 21st Century to meet ADA standards, and will get more bids on that project before deciding whether to go ahead.
The 2010-2011 Budget must be posted for 30 days. It shows a deficit of $1.3 million. State aid has not been paid for this year, property taxes are down, and there is less money available from grants and for special education and transportation, a total of $3.5 million less. If we would get the money owed by the state, we would still owe $1.3 million. The total deficit for last year and this year is $4 million, which should be shown in the budget.
Regular Session The NASA science enrichment classes, called space camp, are being held for two weeks with guest teachers, as well as District 163 teachers. Fifty-three students are registered, and 44 attended the first day.
The Superintendent's report highlighted District 163 ISAT scores for this year. Our overall district scores for 2010 were: reading -76.7%, math - 82.6%. It should be noted that seven or eight years ago the scores were in the high 40s or low 50s. Our students have made tremendous gains, and Supt. Carmine thanked the administrators, teachers, and students for their hard work. Dr. Carmine also noted that no other school district in Illinois with an 80-85% poverty rate scored as high as District 163. She noted that 16 teachers had reading scores of 80% or more and that 29 teachers had math scores of 80% or more. She noted the strong teams of teachers working together. The benchmark for next year will be 85%, and Dr. Carmine asked the teachers to again work hard to achieve that goal.
The Board rejected a request by Lance Jefferson for Board members to have overnight rooms at $150, paid for by the district, for an Illinois Association of School Boards Conference.

Report on SD 163 Board Meeting July 12, 2010 by Suzie Brown

Finance Committee--started at 7:10 p.m.
Present were Melvin Pumphrey, Margaret McDannel, Jackie Jordan, Walter Mosby, Lance Jefferson (7:30), and Cheryl Franklin (7:30).
It was reported by Business Manager, Phil Conboy, that School District 163 is still owed $1.5 million by the state of Illinois. ( Local funds--$300,000 in real estate taxes; state funds--$500,000 in general state aid; federal funds--down $2 million. $2.5 million in cuts have been made.
Because Sauk Trail School and the Administrative Center are vacated to do asbestos removal and other repairs, all other schools are at student maximum. This situation will continue probably throughout the 2010-2011 school year. There was a discussion about the possibility of putting a building assistant job back in the budget for Blackhawk and Mohawk. Since the ISAT target for next year is 85%, Dr. Carmine and the Board discussed hiring a part-time reading assistant who would also devote half time to being a building discipline assistant. The discussion would continue after the closed session.
The 2010-2011 tentative budget will be available for public display on August 2. It must be approved by the end of August.
After a discussion of whether to have two less employees (maintenance/custodian) or to keep one maintenance person, it was learned that there are two years worth of back orders for work. President Mosby asked the Business Manager to get detailed information on the work orders and report back to the Board.
The Board authorized bids to be taken on the asbestos abatement, ceiling, and floors work at 21st Century. It was recently learned that the Mohawk work replacing truces cannot be done without disturbing asbestos that is present. An additional $34,000 will be provided so the asbestos can be removed and the truces be in on target.
There will be no in premium increase for the district Metlife insurance policy.
Regular Session (started at 8:18 p.m., ended at 10:37 p.m.)
Virginia Ford was the only absent Board member.
The students will be in school on Veterans Day. The outcomes of the veteran interviews will be viewed by students, and parent conferences will be held at the same time. On November 15 students will be absent.
Curriculum Director, Maryann Matyasec, announced that there are few available grants. There will be no available Reading First money. Race to the Top winners will be announced in August. Title II money is down, and Title 4 money is gone. She also told about our partnering in a South Cook County math initiative sponsored by UIC and the Chicago Community Trust. Teachers will become math endorsed after the July training. 25 8th graders took high school algebra this year, and 23 passed. We have visited Rich East to look at the algebra program. Algebra will be taught to 8th graders.
Dr. Carmine told the Board that the Paragon Tech Program in science and math will be held beginning July 19 at Beacon Hill School, Pod C. Twenty students can be enrolled. She also reported the following preliminary ISAT scores: 21st Century - 77.5% in reading; 90% in math
Beacon Hill - 88.6% in reading; 82% in math
Mohawk - 73.1% in reading; 83.1% in math
Black hawk - 98.1% in reading; 87.2% in math
Forest Trail - 73.4% in reading; 79.8% in math

All schools except Forest Trail met their goals. The District average is 75.6% in reading and 82.5% in math. (It should be noted that District 163's scores eight years ago were half what these are. Our district families are at 80 - 85% poverty level. No other school district with these levels comes anywhere near to our ISAT scores.)
In discussing the lowest responsible bidder for our food service, Preferred Meals Systems, the Board discussed the bid and the quality of food given to our students, which has not been acceptable for nutrition or amount. Dr. Carmine will meet with the company President to discuss this.
Walter Mosby and Joyce Carmine led a discussion about the need for a new building at the Junior High because of its age and condition. The Board gave directions to draw up possible plans for such a building.

Report on SD 163 Board Meeting June 7, 2010 by Suzie Brown

Present were: Jacqueline Jordan, Melvin Pumphrey, Walter Mosby, Margaret McDannel, Virginia Ford, and Lance Jefferson.
Finance Committee Board members and Dr. Carmine praised the WWII veterans program at Mohawk School at which students in the gifted class interviewed the veterans. A program near Veterans Day will show the videotapes of the veterans being interviewed.
The 21st Century asbestos abatement project and the Mohawk roof renovation will cost a total of two million dollars ($1.2 million for 21st Century and $800,000 for Mohawk). It is estimated that $255,000 will be for asbestos abatement and $80,000 to replace tiles. Mohawk will not have floor asbestos abatement. Ceilings and lights will have to be replaced. The board indicated that it would have liked to have all the separate costs ahead of time.
The Safe Environment Company representative spoke, indicating that they would like the bid for the above work. They are based in Illinois, and their workers are from Cook County, thus benefiting our state and county. In a call to Tony Scariano, the District lawyer, he indicated that it is unconstitutional to give a bid on the basis of geography. Last year Hygeneering reviewed recommendations, and Champion was used.
Chicago Heights has donated $600 toward an hourly pay increase for Beacon Hill School crossing guards to $10.50 per hour.
The Board wants more information about whether or not the 21st Century and Mohawk projects can be paid for from tort funds.
Workers Compensation will cost $30,000 more and must be in place by July 1, 2010.
Dr. Carmine indicated that two teachers will be brought back. One is 3/4 time. Cultural field trips will be brought back and will cost $5,000, as opposed to $20,000 in the past. Some extra title funds will be used.
Regular Session Supt Carmine indicated that District 163 eighth graders are invited to apply to the Southland charter school before June 22. The school will take 125 students. If more apply, there will be a lottery. Dr. Carmine indicated that the new charter school will bring distress to District 227.
21st Century and Forest Trail both had 95.99% attendance in May.
A presentation was given about the World War II Project. Germany, Japan, and U. S. teams researched point of view questions, then developed their own questions for the interviews. Everyone enjoyed the project, including the veterans.
District 163 will have a decrease in revenue this year of $700,000. If we had gotten our state money, we would be $700,000 in the black.
Students were honored for being straight A students for the entire year. They and their families received corsages or boutonnieres. All students were above 72% on the ISAT. The highest was 95%.
Two rooms will be rented to SPEED at $12,000 a room. A participation fee of $500 will be paid to the Illinois Math and Science Academy. The Board approved a Permanent Working Cash Fund transfer to any fund with a negative balance as of June 30, 2010.
Competitive bidding by statute was abandoned by resolution of the Board for the emergency Mohawk roof renovation project. The 2010-2011 school calendar will be adapted to accommodate the construction projects. With no snow days, the last day of school will be June 14.
Reading First money will be used for books. Special education tuition of $13,000 - $15,000 per student will be put into the education fund.

Report on SD 163 Board Meeting May 3, 2010 by Suzie Brown

Finance Committee (7:00 p.m.) Present were Margaret McDannel, Jacqueline Jordan, Melvin Pumphrey, Virginia Ford, Walter Mosby (arrived 7:15), Lance Jefferson (arrived 8:00), Cheryl Franklin (arrived 8:15).
On May 26, at 10:00 a.m. through lunch, Mohawk School students will be interviewing WWII veterans. They will also be honoring the veterans on Veterans Day in November. Two second grade students from District 163 were finalists in a state contest for drawings about safety in work zones. Twenty-first Century students gave a program involving various poems.
The community meeting recently led by Dr. Joyce Carmine to help people understand the reasons for cutting the staff by 20 teachers went well. Dr Carmine indicated to me that we would have had to cut the faculty even without the state owing us $900,000 because our student population is dropping. Our classes won't be enlarged by much because of the cuts.
The South Suburban Math Bowl, in which School District163 participates, will host 20 school districts this week at Prairie State.
Crossing guard pay will be increased 50 cents an hour. The Village of Park Forest pays half of that. Walter Mosby requested that we contact Chicago Heights asking them to pay half the cost for Beacon Hill.
Food service bid specifications were discussed. Virginia Ford requested that the specifications indicate larger portions for Forest Trail. More fresh food, fruits and vegetables, and less meat are indicated.
The working cash transfer fund, which can transfer cash to funds with a negative balance is $25,000.
The cost of new construction at Beacon Hill for security design will be $193,000 and $131,000 for security design at Blackhawk, where the work can be done inside. These changes will make it more convenient to get visitors in the building and will make the buildings more secure.
The roof failure at Mohawk School over rooms 15 and 16 was discussed by a structural engineer and others. There are several options. Deficiencies in the wooden trusses that hold up the roof were shown on projected photographs. Several options will be explored and presented to the board, including repair of the trusses or replacement of the roof structure. Repair would probably last three to five years. A permanent replacement would involve new steel trusses and a new roof. 21st Century also has roof problems, but will need to have asbestos removed before it is inspected, by August 1. Costs of these projects will be gotten right away. Repair at Mohawk School would take six weeks.. Replacement would take all summer.
Regular Session (started at 915 p.m. All board members present.
Business Manager Phil Conboy will prepare the 2010-2011 budget. Chicago Heights Construction, Inc. won the bid for the Blackhawk School drainage project at $78,000.
Because of uncertain construction, adoption of the 2010-2011 school calendar was tabled.
Glow Electric was awarded the Forest Trail electric work with a bid of $140,000.

Report on SD 163 Board Meeting April 12, 2010 by Suzie Brown

Finance Committee - 7:00 p.m.
Present were: Jacqueline Jordan, Margaret McDaniel, Virginia Ford, Melvin Pumphrey, Walter Mosby, Lance Jefferson (arrived at 7:55 p.m.), and Cheryl Franklin (arrived at 8:02 p.m.)
Mohawk School students presented a book talk on the book, The Land. Supt. Carmine told the Board and audience about Mohawk's language development program.
Then 2010-2011 budget timeline is as follows: May-June for the salary draft and August for the final draft on display.
Mr. Plenara presented the design specifications for the Forest Trail addition. 70-80 additional parking spaces will be added. A new gym with a stage at one end, a fitness room (40 x 80 ft.) with glass sides that will also be used by the community, a cafeteria that will seat 300, and a new kitchen (4,000 feet) will also be added. The new addition will have its own heating and air conditioning units. A new boiler can be added later.
The Blackhawk School drainage project bid of $78,000 was given to Chicago Heights Construction.
A discussion of security design revealed that each school's security project would cost $100,000. Forest Trail is already secure. The Board decided to go ahead with Beacon Hill and Blackhawk Schools this summer.
Regular Session - 8:45 p.m.

All Board members were present. Supt. Carmine reported that all schools had 95% attendance during March.
The Technology Literacy classes for the community had 47 students in March. A second class beginning April 20 will offer instruction in power point, Google, etc.
The Board voted to riff 14 first years pretenured teachers because of the budget deficit. (The state owes the district $900,000.) They also voted to riff 6 final years pretenured teachers.
A large number of parents and community citizens attended both the financial committee and regular sessions of the Board. Numerous parents passionately protested the teacher cuts, many supporting particular teachers who are being cut. They pointed to the costly Forest Trail renovations being planned, and said they were not informed about the cuts. Joyce Carmine explained that the cuts had been discussed at board meetings for four months, and that they had saved the intervention progams which have helped District 163 students to score 75% or better on the ISAT even though 80% of our students get free lunch. She further explained that the district must spend funds for a particular purpose, so the funds designated for the Forest Trail addition cannot be spent on teachers' salaries. Dr. Carmine offered to meet with parents this week to go over the cuts again. The Board thanked the teachers who are being cut for their service to the district.

Report on SD 163 Board Meeting Mar 8, 2010 by Suzie Brown

Finance Committee
All Board members were present. The Board and visitors saw a program by Blackhawk School student council members, an excellent cheer leading squad, a student reciting a poem, and a fourth grader who sang a beautiful song about the hero in you. The student made a CD for Dr. Carmine, and she gave $100 to Blackhawk School.
Com Ed wants an easement for its Blackhawk project. The Board wants to see bid specs for the Forest Trail electrical project before the end of March, so they can take bids by May 3. The drainage project at Blackhawk School involves two parts and is a safety issue. The grassy area has ponding water and will be regraded, with drain tile added. The asphalt area will have part of it replaced with concrete.
A trial group will be using the new P-cards, which will be locked up. Members of the group wanting to use a P-card must bring in receipts.
Most of the the Finance Committee meeting was devoted to the budget reduction proposal prepared by Dr. Carmine. Because of lower enrollment (200 fewer pupils), less grant money, and less state money (the state owes District 163 $900,000) the budget must be cut by $3.5 million. There is $150,000 leftover from the Reading First program, which must be spent by August 31 of this year. In addition, there is $80,000 left in special education funds, which makes a total of $230,000 that can be subtracted from the money to be cut. There is an expected 15% cut in funds from the state this year.
Dr. Carmine presented four options. Plans A and B would cut $2.8 million. Class sizes would be changed, as follows: Primary - 23-25 students per class, Middle - 27-30 students per class, Intermediate - 23-26 students per class. Pre-K funding will be only 70% and must be reduced. After school enrichment, summer school, the spring musical, and cultural enrichment will be cut. Twenty certified staff positions will be cut, as well as 15 classified assistants. Media centers will no longer be staffed by certified teachers. Small group intervention would be kept. Five bus routes will be cut because of the decline in enrollment. Buses that hold 70+ students now average 33 students.
President Mosby wanted to make the additional cuts proposed in Options C and D, so that the total $3.5 million deficit would all be eliminated, and Board members Jefferson, Jordan, and Franklin agreed with him at first. After Dr. Carmine spoke about the huge difference the intervention program has made in the past seven years since she set it up, they all changed their minds The 15 reading specialists and two to four retirees who do math work in each building have helped to bring the district average on state testing to 75% in a district that has a student poverty level of over 80%. C and D would have eliminated the intervention programs. Cheryl Franklin was the first to change her mind. The others followed. The Board voted to accept Options A and B and to reinstate the 7th grade Springfield trip. Dr. Carmine noted that when the District was in debt when she was hired they did not eliminate it all in one year. The Superintendent and all the Board members expressed great regret at having to cut the budget so drastically and eliminate staff. Making the decision about cutting staff now allows teachers to begin looking for other positions. President Mosby commented that it did not make any difference about the timing because there are no jobs anyway. May Wiza, representing the teacher's union, indicated that Joliet and Oak Park are planning to add staff.
Regular Session
All Board members were present. Supt. Carmine reported that Mohawk School had the highest attendance level for February, at 94%. Fifty-nine have registered for the Adult Technology Classes.
All the projects discussed in the Finance Committee meeting were approved, as was the Budget Reduction Plan.

Report on SD 163 Board Meeting Feb 8, 2010 by Suzie Brown

Education Committee
Those attending the Education Committee meeting of the School District 163 Board were: Margaret McDannel, Jacqueline Jordan, Walter Mosby, Virginia Ford, Melvin Pumphrey, and Lance Jefferson.
The board and those attending the meeting saw a portion of the Algonquin School program honoring Martin Luther King. The board was presented with a quilt made by the children showing their dreams.
All classes will take part in a census unit project which will emphasize how the schools benefit from an accurate and complete census and the importance of attending school.
Dr. Carmine reported on the decreased revenue the district has received because of declining enrollment, the fact that the state has no money to pay what school districts are owed, and the lack of grant funds. The district may get from 5% to 17% less in funds this year. The Reading First program will be cut $800,000, and the pre-K program will lose $800,000. Tthis year we finally received 90% of the funding for these programs.
In order to balance the budget, Dr. Carmine reported that they must cut $3.5 million. Cuts will include not only programs, but staff, and class size will increase. K-3 will have 20 - 24 students. Intermediate will have 26 students. Middle School will have 27 students. Although some cuts could be brought back, the Board will act on the staff cuts in March, so that staff who are cut may be released to look for other jobs. The Board will meet again to discuss the budget and cuts before voting on them in March. They will need this year's budget and what has been spent. The Finance Committee meets March 8. Both the Board and the Superintendent expressed regret that the cuts have to be made, but this is going on in every district.
As part of a $297,000 technology grant, a two-day technology training program for 150 people in the community will be held in mid-March, in the evening, at Forest Trail School. Child care will be available.
A Forest Trail game night was held recently that attracted 100 people.
Regular Session
In addition to those who attended the Education Committee meeting, Cheryl Franklin came for the Regular Session.
De Tella Planera architects have been secured for the Forest Trail New Construction Project and the Blackhawk Drainage Project.
The P-Card has been adopted for designated district purchases with authorized individuals, terms, and conditions to be approved by the Board at a later date.
The Board approved the school lunch cooperation agreement between Park Forest-Chicago Heights School District 163 and SPEED.

Report on SD 163 Board Meeting Jan 11, 2010 by Suzie Brown

Finance Committee Meeting
Absent were Chair Margaret McDannel and Cheryl Franklin.
Supt. Carmine and the school principals introduced Science Fair project winners, who showed their projects and received trophies.
The board is moving forward on its consideration of an IASMO Procurement card, which is like a credit card. It will streamline the accounts payable process, and will have usage and author parameters. Original receipts will still be needed. There is fraud protection, and there are no cash advances. The district would start with departments, then proceed to individuals, and a ghost card would be available for the board's expenses. There would be 1% rebates.
Dr. Carmine reported that we have 1,600 students in the district, which is a drop. Pre-school attendance is up. We need to keep daily attendance up.
The board will be getting more bids on a 403B contract. We need a third-party administrator, as many other districts have. We are having trouble with Vanguard. They are not taking out employee's deductions. CPI is being considered, and has a service charge for employees. We need to know how much that is, and who will pay it.
The Finance Committee may need a special session for the capital improvement update.
Regular Session
Supt Carmine reported that no schools met the 95% attendance goal. Forest Trail had 94%. Forest Trail had a very nice presentation on their participation in the Challenge Learning Center program involving "going to Mars" at Purdue Calumet University.
Additional science project winners were presented with trophies. Numerous parents attended these award presentations.
The ISAT will begin the first week of March.
Approving the Sprint Contract with District 163 was tabled, as was the contract with Electronic Learning Environment for technology service and support.
The board passed a motion resolving that no more than $6,700,000 in general obligation bonds be issued to pay claims against the district and no more than $3,500,000 general obligation bonds be issued to increase the working cash fund of the district. The board resolved to abate $2,653.032 from the working cash to the education fund.

Report on SD 163 Board Meeting Nov 2, 2009 by Suzie Brown

Finance Committee
Present were Jacqueline Jordan, Melvin Pumphrey, Virginia Ford, Margaret McDannel, Lance Jefferson, Walter Mosby (late), and Cheryl Franklin (very late).
Forest Trail Principal Stroud reported that the District flag team was invited by Rich East to perform at Northwestern University, and they did a good job. Next year they will perform for the Bud Billiken Parade.
For the last three years $500,000 has been cut from the budget. In order to get a balanced budget, as required of the superintendent, $500,000 will need to be cut in the current proposed budget. The board is questioning whether the summer school program is effective. (During the regular session a presentation was made of the 2009 summer school program, which cost $140,000.) Other considerations pertaining to the budget included reducing staff, a new phonics program, language development books, and acceleration materials, including an alternative reading text.
A $10,000,000 bond issue, which includes $6.7 million for Funding Bonds and $3.5 million for Working Cash Fund Bonds, will be presented at a public hearing on December 7, 2009. This money will be for capital projects. These will be paid off over a long period. 2010 property taxes will increase .1%.
A $200,000 three-year grant will buy 130 computers. The grant will be amended to allow the purchase of computer tables, as well. The back double doors to the small gym at Forest Trail will be replaced for security reasons at a cost of $6,600.
Proposed new security cameras will work with the present ones. More input is needed. Supt. Carmine indicated that outside cameras are also needed, but can be gotten later. Blue Cross and Blue Shield and Guardian Dental insurance coverage will remain. Originally the Blue Cross rate was an increase of 11-13%. For this school year the increase will be 7.8%. Guardian's renewal rate will increase by 3% for PPO and no increase for HMO.
The board is getting information from companies on a 403b Contract. Letters to employees will give information about loans, etc. Options will include leaving their money where it is or transferring their annuity. The union representative expressed concern for privacy and asked that no information be put on the website except by written permission. She asked that we not lose our current venders and indicated that the union wants to meet with the venders.
Regular Meeting
Walter Mosby reported that the technical conference in Denver was great. Jacqueline Jordan will represent the board at the IASB/IASA Joint Conference. Lance Jefferson will be the Director-at-Large for the IASB.
The district has received a library grant of $2,000. All school libraries except Forest Trail exceed the number of books recommended by the American Library Association.
The Superintendent reported that Mohawk School had the highest attendance--96.14%. There is one case of H1N1 in the district. The 2009 summer school program included 253 students in 23 classes. There were reading gains in grades K, 1, 2, and 3. 83% of students completed the remediation program. Seventeen students were retained.
Aramark received a two-year contract for custodial/maintenance services at $1,100,199.

Report on SD 163 Board Meeting Oct 5, 2009 by Suzie Brown

Present were Walter Mosby, Melvin Pumphrey, Virginia Ford, Margaret McDannel and Phil Conboy. Jacquelin Jordan, Cheryl Franklin, and Lance Jefferson came in later. Education Committee Twenty-two Forest Trail students participated in an after school progam last year which went until 6:30 p.m. The programs, called Men in Training and Designing Women, included academic skills and personal/ social skills, including etiquette. Boys worked on team building. One girl read a poem she had written during the program.
The superintendent has done a line item analysis of the budget. The board will look it over and discuss it at the next Finance Committee meeting. We need a balanced budget. One more tech staff person is needed.
There is a new gifted grades 2/3 class at 21st Century. A report on the educational program of the district was given which included an accelerated phonics program that involves singing, spelling, reading, and writing.
Walter Mosby saw and praised the science lab on wheels at Mohawk School. It is available to all schools. The teacher must go for training first.
The audience heard Forest Trail students sing the new school song, accompanied by the band, and saw a flag drill program. Committee of the Whole The board is considering the possibility of constructing a new kitchen, cafeteria, and possibly a new gym at Forest Trail. Food for the whole district would be prepared in the new kitchen. They are eligible to borrow $10 million, and could borrow $8,300,000 from Harris Bank. This could be repaid over ten years. The district is presently debt free. On October 15, the board will view the kitchen and cafeteria at Rich South High School.
Other capital development projects suggested were a bus garage, secure vestibules and windows for all schools, work on ventilation and lights, more concrete and asphalt repair, and work on Forest Trail bathrooms.
The board is considering a 403b plan where the money goes directly to the annuity, and the annuitant can see where they are on the computer. A presentation showed the advantages and disadvantages of such a plan. A third party administrator would be needed. A representative of the teachers' union said she objected to the personal information needed being on the internet.
(I left at 9:30 before the Regular Meeting started. I had been sitting for 2 1/2 hours and couldn't take any more sitting.)

Report on SD 163 Board Meeting Sept 14, 2009 by Suzie Brown

Finance Committee
Present for the Finance Committee meeting were: Jacqueline Jordan, Virginia Ford, Melvin Pumphrey, Margaret McDannel, Joyce Carmine (Supt.), and Phil Convoy (new Business Manager).
Jacqueline Jordan told the board that the incoming freshmen at Rich East are "right on point," according to Rich East teachers.
The budget update revealed that there have been some reductions in business office and curriculum expenses, but they will have little effect on the total. In discussing the budget, it was reported that the district received $1,900,000 less this year from the state. However, in July $1.7million was paid by the state. Our projected deficit as of June 2010 will be $726,288. (In real terms this is $2+ million.) Phil Convoy presented a visual display of where the budget money comes from. It included 31% from property taxes, 32% from state aid (normally 48%), 19% from federal aid (normally 9%--extra from stimulus money). Major expenditures include 54% for salaries and 8.3% for benefits.
Phil Convoy presented information on the new capital development projects for the next five years. Last December District 163 was debt free, so they can use future bonding power to fund the present projects. They are in good shape to borrow. Tax assessments won't be increased, if we get new bonds. A decision is needed on how much to borrow. The listed projects include a new kitchen and cafeteria at Forest Trail Middle School. The total amount available would be $9.9 million. The payback would be more than $1.5 million per year. Virginia Ford requested that the full board meet in an extra meeting to consider this plan. She suggested that the district not take the maximum amount available. Margaret McDannel stressed the importance of the new kitchen and cafeteria at Forest Trail.
The need for AED equipment for emergencies and training teachers to use it in play areas was discussed. Custodians, the superintendent, and other administrators would also need portable equipment. It is recommended that we contact the village about their activities in the schools, as well, and then decide how many are needed. Aramark, our insurance company can provide training.
The Boarddoc program is being investigated. It costs $2,000. They would keep our files as opposed to the district holding our files. Margaret McDannel asked if we could download our files if they have them. She would hate to see everything on laptops which have such small screens. Each laptop is $600-700. Larger screens are available. The laptops take three hours to charge. A question was raised about whether or not family members could peruse board business, if files were put on home computers. The district presently spends $35,000 per year on paper. More discussion is needed.
A 403B retirement plan should be in place by December 31. Venders will pay the employee fee. The startup fee is $1,000 - $1,500. Would they do a historical search?
A grant has been received for 130 computer desks for the classroom.
Regular Meeting Cheryl Franklin and President Walter Mosby arrived for the Regular Session. Lance Jefferson was absent.
Superintendent's report: 1,808 students are presently enrolled in School District 163. 73% of our students are meeting state standards. In reading and math it is 80%. The district nurse reported on district plans for H1N1.
A special celebration of Enid Norton's 50th anniversary of working for District 163 was held, which included a student presentation, a DVD presentation with old pictures, many comments by principals and others, a gift, and cake for everyone.
Walter Mosby asked the board to approve his attending the National School Board Association T-L Conference, October 28 - 30, in Colorado. It is basically a technology conference. Virginia Ford objected because of the debt the district has and the fact that there are other conferences district technology experts attended last year. Registration would be $425, and airfare would be $245 on Southwest Airlines. It is estimated that the total conference would cost at least $1,000. Mr. Mosby's request was granted, with a vote of 4 - 2. Margaret McDannel and Virginia Ford voted against it.

Comments, suggestions, questions? Contact our webmaster. Last revised: February 7, 2012 08:20 PST.