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HomeMy WebLinkAbout05b Board 26 Jun 2006 Minutes Public• [�17 � OTTAWA-CAUETON DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD MINUTES 26 June 2006 A meeting of the Ottawa - Carleton District School Board was held this evening in the Board Room, 133 Greenbank Road, Ottawa, Ontario, commencing at 7:35 p.m. with Trustee Lynn Graham in the Chair and the following also in attendance: Trustees Riley Brockington, Bronwyn Funiciello, Alex Getty, Margaret Lange, Greg Laws, Jim Libbey, Norm MacDonald, David Moen, David Primeau, Lynn Scott and Joan Spice. STAFF: Director of Education and Secretary of the Board, Lorne Rachlis; Superintendents Mike Carson, Michael Clarke, Laura McAlister, Mike Neill and Glenda Stevenson, Executive Officer (Instruction), Isabel Millington, Executive Officer (Administration), Michele Giroux, Manager of Board Services, Monica Ceschia; Communications Coordinator, Hyacinth Haddad, AV Technician Robert Giekes; and Committee Coordinator, Bruce Fraser. STUDENT TRUSTEES: Steven Robins and Oliver Kahn. On a motion by Trustee Funiciello, seconded by Trustee Primeau, the Board resolved into Committee of the Whole (in camera). Trustee Scott assumed the Chair in Committee and later presented the Committee's report in public session. (Board Minute 06 -261 refers). 258. Call to Order Chair Graham called the public session of the meeting to order at 8:10 p.m. 259. Presentations to Isabel Millington and Glenda Stevenson Chair Graham and Director Rachlis thanked retiring members of senior staff, Isabel Millington and Glenda Stevenson for their many years of dedicated service to the students of the Ottawa - Carleton District School Board. They wished them well in their retirement and presented each with a token of the Board's appreciation. 260. Approval of Agenda On a motion by Trustee Brockington, seconded by Trustee Funiciello, the agenda was approved as circulated. 261. Report No. 16, Committee of the Whole (In Camera) Trustee Scott presented Report No. 16 from Committee of the Whole (in camera) and seconded the following recommendations therein, viz.: a) New Avalon School - Revised Class D Budget (Motion by Trustee Libbey, seconded by Trustee Scott) THAT the revised class D budget estimate for the new Avalon School be approved. •; • [�17 � OTTAWA-CAUETON DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD MINUTES 26 June 2006 The motion was carried. b) Employee Issue (Motion by Trustee Libbey, seconded by Trustee Scott) THAT staff proceed as directed in Committee of the Whole (in camera) with respect to an employee issue. The motion was carried. C) Employee Issue (Motion by Trustee Primeau, seconded by Trustee Scott) THAT staff proceed as directed in Committee of the Whole (in camera) with respect to a second employee issue. The motion was carried. d) Report No. 06 -163, Special Education Appeal (Motion by Trustee Libbey seconded by Trustee Scott) THAT, as per Section 30 (1) of Regulation 181, the Board accept the determination of the Special Education Appeal Board held on June 14, 2006, and so indicate to each of the persons specified in Regulation 191, Section 29 (1). The motion was carried. Recommendations a), b), c) and d) were adopted by the Board. 262. Confirmation of Minutes, 13 June 2006 On a motion by Trustee MacDonald, seconded by Trustee Spice, the minutes of the June 13, 2006 Board meeting were confirmed with a revision that "did not receive a two - thirds majority" be replaced with "did not receive unanimous consent" in Board minute 245 -06. 263. Business Arising from Minutes, 13 June 2006 There was no business arising from the Board minutes dated June 13, 2006. 200 • [�17 � OTTAWA-CAUETON DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD 264. Chair's Report MINUTES 26 June 2006 Chair Graham congratulated Sherry Brown of South Carleton High School who won a $1,000 Rock On scholarship from Northern Ontario Business, the Ontario Mining Association, and the Mining Industry Training and Advisory Council. Sherry wrote an essay explaining her interest in the mining industry and will be pursuing post - secondary studies in this field. She is one of three winners from candidates across Ontario. Chair Graham reported that Kathleen Tayler, grade 11 at Canterbury High School, Katrina Van Wijk, grade 10 at Glebe Collegiate Institute, Spencer Pomeroy, grade 9 at Nepean High School and Cam Smedley, grade 10 at West Carleton Secondary School have qualified for the Canadian National Junior Whitewater Slalom Kayak and Canoe Team. The students will be travelling to Solkan, Slovenia for the World Junior Slalom Championships in July and will be representing Ontario at the Canadian National Championships in August. Chair Graham thanked Vice -Chair Lynn Scott for her assistance and support over the last two months. 265. Director's Report Director Rachlis reported that the Critics Award Program for High School Theatre, "The Cappies", was recently held at the National Arts Centre. He congratulated students from the seven participating Ottawa - Carleton District School Board secondary schools who had staged a variety of plays including Guys and Dolls, Romeo and Juliet, and Peter Pan. The students received twenty -one awards for demonstrating excellence as actors, musicians, technicians, and theatre critics. Director Rachlis noted that Gabriel Walton of Lisgar Collegiate Institute and Michelle Nash of Merivale High School each won a scholarship to attend Algonquin College's Theatre Arts Program and will be attending the Cappies International Theatre in Washington D.C. Director Rachlis also acknowledged the participation of the Ottawa Citizen, a leading partner in the event, which published many student reviews of high school productions in order to raise the profile of the literary and performing arts in schools. Director Rachlis announced that Melody McKiver of Cairine Wilson Secondary School will receive the Brian Murphy Music Award and a cheque for $500. The award is presented to a student graduating from an Ottawa - Carleton District School Board high school who most exemplifies the former radio host's passion for, and knowledge of music, including the blues, rock and jazz. Melody is a true connoisseur of music and an accomplished and passionate musician. 266. Public Question Period There were no questions from the public. 201 • [�17 � OTTAWA-CAUETON DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD MINUTES 26 June 2006 267. Report No. 7, Special Meeting of Education Committee, 30 May 2006 (revised) On a motion by Trustee Laws, seconded by Trustee Spice, Report No. 7, Special Meeting of Education Committee, 30 May 2006 (revised) was received. The recommendation in the report was dealt with at the June 13, 2006 Board meeting. 268. Report No. 3, Committee of the Whole (Budget), 08 June 2006 On a motion by Trustee Brockington, seconded by Trustee Spice, Report No. 3, Committee of the Whole (Budget) dated June 8, 2006 was received. The recommendation in the report was dealt with at the June 13, 2006 Board meeting. Trustee Laws requested that item 4) concerning the reinstatement of the vice - principal position at Centennial Public School include a reference to the letters of support submitted by a parent and the school council. He noted the 4tn paragraph on folio 32 should read "Some of the proposals..." 269. Report No. 9. Business Services Committee. 15 June 2006 On a motion by Trustee Brockington, seconded by Trustee MacDonald, Report No. 9, Business Services Committee dated June 15, 2006 was received. Trustee Laws noted that his name should be capitalized in the second sentence of item 2) Approval of the Agenda. Trustee Brockington presented and seconded the following recommendations: a) Budget Carry Forward Requests from 2005 -2006 Budget (Motion by Trustee Scott, seconded by Trustee Brockington) THAT the following carry forwards from the 2005 -2006 budget be approved: A. The carry forwards listed in appendix A of staff report No. 06 -153, so long as the Board is not in deficit, B. The unspent funds in the trustee professional development and communications accounts as of 31 August 2006, and C. The unspent funds in the advisory committee accounts as of 31 August 2006. 202 • [�17 � OTTAWA-CAUETON DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD MINUTES 26 June 2006 This was not a consent item and was moved to 13a). When it was dealt with later in the meeting, the following discussion ensued: Trustees speaking in support of the motion noted that while Board policy restricts the use of funds for constituency communication in an election year during the period September 1 to the end of the Board's term, funds can still be used for professional development and should be carried forward. In response to a query regarding including possible retroactive trustee remuneration, Superintendent Clarke advised that if changes to trustee remuneration are approved prior to August 31, 2006 they would be considered a year end accrual and that would not require Board approval. The motion was carried. b) Revision, Major Renewal Program 2005 -2006, Good Places to Learn (GPTL) (Motion by Trustee Libbey, seconded by Trustee Brockington) A. THAT Board approve the revisions to the Major Renewal Program (appendix B of staff report 06 -148), and B. THAT Board authorize the Director and Chief Financial Officer to approve expenditures in excess of $500,000 for projects funded under Good Places to Learn or Facilities Renewal funding during the period June 27, 2006 to October 1, 2006. This was not a consent item and moved to 13b). When it was dealt with later in the meeting, the following discussion ensued: In response to a query as to why June 27 to October 1 was selected, Superintendent Carson advised that as the Board calendar has not been finalized, the period was selected to ensure that items could be dealt with in a timely manner. An amendment by Trustee Scott, seconded by Trustee Moen, THAT October 1, 2006 be replaced with September 15, 2006 in part B was accepted as friendly. In response to a query regarding allocations for projects at Grant Alternative School, Superintendent Carson confirmed that the figures only reflect funding allocated under the Good Places to Learn grants and that projects would also be funded from sources such as the pupil accommodation reserve. The motion, as revised, was carried, viz.: 203 • [�17 � OTTAWA-CAUETON DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD MINUTES 26 June 2006 A. THAT Board approve the revisions to the Major Renewal Program (appendix B of staff report 06 -148), and B. THAT Board authorize the Director and Chief Financial Officer to approve expenditures in excess of $500,000 for projects funded under Good Places to Learn or Facilities Renewal funding during the period June 27, 2006 to September 15, 2006. C) Key Design Elements - New L ongfields -Davidson Heights Secondary School (Motion by Trustee MacDonald, seconded by Trustee Brockington) THAT the Board approve, for planning purposes, the construction of a 1,350 capacity school within the Longfields- Davidson Heights Community to accommodate students in grades 7 to 12. This was not a consent item and was moved to 13c). When it was dealt with later in the meeting, the following discussion ensued: In response to a query by Trustee Moen regarding a significant reduction to enrolment at neighbouring schools such as Merivale High School, Superintendent Carson noted that staff had indicated in previous reports that enrolment at Merivale High School would likely decline by approximately 250 students due to construction of the new school, and the school would experience some additional reductions due to other factors. He pointed out that Sir Winston Churchill Public School would also be impacted and that the middle school boundary would be reviewed in due course. In response to a query regarding the enrolment capacity at the Ottawa - Carleton Catholic School Board (OCCSB) secondary schools in that area, Superintendent Carson estimated that both secondary schools would have a combined enrolment of approximately 2500 students. Trustee Brockington noted that the Barrhaven area is expanding exponentially and expressed the view that the Board should overbuild and underutilize to ensure that facilities are available in the area to accommodate future growth. Trustee Brockington, seconded by Trustee Lange, moved in amendment THAT "a 1,350 capacity school" be revised to "a 1,500" capacity school. Trustees speaking in support of the amendment expressed the view that the Board will not likely have an opportunity to build an additional secondary school in the area for a decade and should plan to accommodate potential growth in this school. Trustees speaking against the amendment noted that growth areas eventually stabilize and the Board can be left with underutilized schools. Some trustees expressed the view that, as some 204 • [�17 � OTTAWA-CAUETON DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD MINUTES 26 June 2006 research concludes that smaller schools improve student achievement, it would be preferable at this point to construct a smaller school, supported with portable classrooms, and construct a second school in the future if required. In response to a query, Superintendent Carson confirmed that consideration is given to the possible future expansion of a school during the design phase. Trustee Libbey expressed the view that the Board should approach the Ministry to encourage joint planning among the local school boards. At the request of Trustee Brockington, a recorded vote was held and the amendment was defeated on the following division: FOR: Trustees Brockington, Getty, Graham, Lange and MacDonald (5) AGAINST: Trustees Funiciello, Libbey, Moen, Primeau Scott and Spice (6) ABSTENTION: Trustee Laws (1) In wrap -up, Trustee MacDonald noted that the Ottawa - Carleton District School Board is losing students to neighbourhood schools belonging to the Catholic Board, as students would prefer to bike or walk to their local schools. The motion was carried. d) Adult High School Parking Proposal - 70 -space parking lot (Motion by Trustee Spice, seconded by Trustee Brockington) THAT the Board direct staff to conclude an agreement with the City of Ottawa for execution by the Chair and Director for the construction of a 70 -space parking lot on the property of the Adult High School based on the undertakings and specifications described in the attached City's proposal (appendix C of staff report ), including any other conditions that staff deem necessary to protect the interests of the Board and including a mutually acceptable timeframe for the completion of the work. This was a consent item and the motion was carried. e) Playground Repairs & Replacement — Staff Report for October Business Services (Motion by Trustee Moen, sub for Trustee Brockington, seconded by Trustee Brockington) 205 • [�17 � OTTAWA-CAUETON DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD MINUTES 26 June 2006 THAT staff be directed to prepare a report for the October Business Services Committee meeting that addresses the following: i) Identify the current process followed for playground enhancement, repair and replacement on a Board -wide cyclical basis (including how funding for projects is prioritized by Facilities staff), ii) Identify the criteria or guidelines used (if they exist) that are used to determine how many and what kind(s) of play structures are required at each school, iii) Provide a breakdown of who is responsible for contributing to the financing of the project, iv) Provide a description of how much money the Board spends for play structures /school yard activity projects per year, on average, V) Identify known difficulties faced by school communities that can not afford to raise their share, and vi) Identify any partnerships with private organizations that have been entered into to assist with play structure installation and /or financing. This was a consent item and the motion was carried. f) New Briarbrook Elementary School — Funding and Architect (Motion by Trustee Libbey, seconded by Trustee Brockington) A. THAT staff apply as soon as possible for up to $10 million in funding for an elementary school in Briarbrook in Kanata North under the provisions for funding of "New Schools in Localized Growth Areas" announced on pages 10 and 11 of the Ministry of Education's B- letter, B8, dated 12 June 2006, for occupancy in September 2008, B. THAT a preliminary budget of up to $500,000 be approved for the purpose of engaging architects and /or other consultants to be funded out of capital reserves, and C. THAT staff be authorized to engage an architect in accordance with the process followed for the last six elementary schools. 206 • [�17 � OTTAWA-CAUETON DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD MINUTES 26 June 2006 This was not a consent item and was moved to item 13d). When it was dealt with later in the meeting, the following discussion ensued: In response to a query by Trustee Libbey, staff confirmed that all three parts of the motion apply to the new Briarbrook elementary school and that the initial design process and the development of cost estimates will commence as quickly as possible. Staff will bring a schedule and budget forward in September. In response to a query by Trustee Moen regarding the grade range and programs at the school, staff noted that a determination has not been finalized. Staff noted that school designs would normally provide flexibility in program delivery choices in order to accommodate future changes such as dual to single track. Trustee Libbey noted that discussions had taken place at the committee level and that the school would likely be JK -6, dual- track. At the request of Trustee Moen, a separate vote was held on part C. Parts A and B were carried. Part C was carried. g) Minor Boundary Adjustment to Grandfather Students on Quinn Road (Motion by Trustee Laws, seconded by Trustee Brockington) THAT the current 2005 -2006 Sawmill Creek Elementary School students living on Quinn Road be permitted to finish their elementary education at Sawmill Creek Public School, if they so choose. This was a consent item and the motion was carried. Recommendations a), b), as amended, c), d), e), f) and g) were adopted by the Board. 270. Partial Report No. 8, Education Committee, 19 June 2006 On a motion by Trustee Laws, seconded by Trustee Moen, Partial Report No. 8, Education Committee dated June 19, 2006 was received. Trustee Laws presented and seconded the following recommendations. 207 • [�17 � OTTAWA-CAUETON DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD MINUTES 26 June 2006 a) Receipt of Annual Reports of the Board's Advisory Committees (Motion by Trustee Lange, seconded by Trustee Laws) THAT the 2005 -2006 Annual Report of the Community Council for Ethnocultural Equity (CCEE) be received. This was not a consent item and became item 13e). When it was dealt with later in the meeting, the following debate ensued: Trustee Laws noted that the reports from the Board's other advisory committees were also received at committee. Trustee Scott pointed out that the other advisory committees are governed by Board policy P 065.GOV - Advisory Committees to the Board regarding advisory committees whereas the CCEE is governed by a separate policy (P 008.GOV - Community Council for Ethnocultural Equity) which states it shall report annually to the Board. Trustee Brockington moved in amendment, THAT the annual reports from the Board's other advisory committees also be received. At the request of Chair Graham, unanimous consent was given to replace the recommendation contained in the Board agenda package to the motion approved at the Education Committee meeting, viz.: (Motion by Trustee Lange, seconded by Trustee Laws) THAT the 2005 -2006 Annual Reports of the Arts Advisory Committee, the Alternative Schools Advisory Committee, the Children and Youth at Risk Advisory Committee and the Community Council for Ethnocultural Equity be received. Trustee Spice requested that copies of the reports be distributed in the weekend package. b) Mental Health Initiatives (Motion by Trustee Lange, seconded by Trustee Laws) A. THAT the Board write to the Minister of Education with copies to the Minister of Health, and the Minister of Community and Social Services advocating that: i) the Ministry of Education increase school board funding to meet the increased need for mental health services of children and youth, particularly through an increase in the number of service staff (such as social workers, mental health workers, public health nurses), available per school. 208 • [�17 � OTTAWA-CAUETON DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD MINUTES 26 June 2006 ii) the Ministry of Education, Ministry of Health and Ministry of Children and Youth Services work together to seek opportunities for integration of service delivery to better meet the mental health needs of children and youth in Ontario and to encourage more direct partnerships with community agencies, B. THAT the Ottawa - Carleton District School Board investigate the provision of free evening classes on parenting (provided either by Ottawa - Carleton District School Board staff or community partners), with daycare to be provided by students requiring Community Service volunteer hours and report back to Education Committee in the fall of 2006, C. THAT the Ottawa - Carleton District School Board raise awareness of the effects of unmet mental health needs on the education system by forwarding this motion to the Ontario Public School Board Association ( OPSBA) for consideration at the next OPSBA Board of Directors' meeting, and D. THAT the Board hire a full -time Community Services Coordinator (estimated cost of $80,000) to coordinate with community service agencies to ensure provision of mental health services to students in our system subject to budget considerations, This was not a consent item and became item 13f). When it was dealt with later in the meeting, the following debate ensued: Trustee Lange advised that the motion originated from the Children and Youth at Risk Advisory Committee (CAYARAC) and pointed out that approximately one in five students have mental health issues and only one in six of those receive assistance as the required resources are currently not available. In response to a query regarding the provision of services, Superintendent Stevenson advised that Professional Student Services Personnel (PSSP) often assist students in dealing with mental health issues. She noted that students also seek the assistance of external service providers. In response to a query by Trustee Brockington regarding the motion, Director Rachlis advised that while the issue is not directly part of the Board's mandate, staff works with other organizations to highlight issues and promote cooperation to address the needs of students. An amendment by Trustee Moen, seconded by Trustee Libbey, THAT "the Minister of Children and Youth Services" be added to part A, was accepted as friendly. Trustee Moen expressed the view that while the need exists, the provincial government, not just education sector, should be responsible for addressing the related issues. 209 • [�17 � OTTAWA-CAUETON DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD MINUTES 26 June 2006 Trustee Moen, seconded by Trustee Libbey, moved in amendment THAT "Ministry of Education" be replaced with "provincial government" and "per school" be deleted in part Ai). Trustees speaking in support of the amendment agreed that the education sector should assist with identifying and dealing with mental health issues where possible but the funding and staffing should be the responsibility of other public organizations. Trustees speaking against the amendment expressed the view that the Board has a responsibility to provide assistance to students with mental health issues, as they cannot achieve their potential when suffering from depression or anxiety. A sub - amendment by Trustees Primeau, seconded by Trustee Moen, THAT "in schools" be added to replace "per school ", was accepted as friendly. The amendment was carried. Trustee Moen, seconded by Trustee Brockington move in amendment THAT the beginning of part D be revised to read: "THAT the Board advocate that the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Children and Youth Services" and "subject to budget considerations." be deleted from the last sentence. Trustees speaking in support of the amendment agreed that the appropriate agencies should be responsible for funding a full -time coordinator as it is not part of the Board's core mandate. The Board is facing significant financial challenges, therefore, education funding should not be used to cover the costs of services provided on behalf of other public organizations. Trustees speaking against the amendment expressed the view that the coordinators should be located in the schools as that is where the support is required and there would be little cost to the board as it would function in an advocacy role. Director Rachlis noted that part B includes a continuing education function and the Board would need to decide if facilities would be provided at no cost. The amendment was carried. A motion to continue the meeting past 10:30 p.m. was carried by a two - thirds majority vote. 210 • [�17 � OTTAWA-CAUETON DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD MINUTES 26 June 2006 At the request of Trustee Scott separate votes were held on all parts of the motion. All parts of the following motion, as amended, were carried: A. THAT the Board write to the Minister of Education with copies to the Minister of Health, the Minister of Children and Youth Services and the Minister of Community and Social Services advocating that: i) the provincial government increase funding to meet the increased need for mental health services of children and youth, particularly through an increase in the number of service staff (such as social workers, mental health workers, public health nurses), available in schools. ii) the Ministry of Education, Ministry of Health and Ministry of Children and Youth Services work together to seek opportunities for integration of service delivery to better meet the mental health needs of children and youth in Ontario and to encourage more direct partnerships with community agencies, B. THAT the Ottawa - Carleton District School Board investigate the provision of free evening classes on parenting (provided either by Ottawa - Carleton District School Board staff or community partners), with daycare to be provided by students requiring Community Service volunteer hours and report back to Education Committee in the fall of 2006, C. THAT the Ottawa - Carleton District School Board raise awareness of the effects of unmet mental health needs on the education system by forwarding this motion to the Ontario Public School Board Association ( OPSBA) for consideration at the next OPSBA Board of Directors' meeting, and D. THAT the Board advocate that the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Children and Youth Services hire a full -time Community Services Coordinator (estimated cost of $80,000) to coordinate with community service agencies to ensure provision of mental health services to students in our system, On a motion by Trustee Laws, seconded by Trustee Moen, unanimous consent was given to temporarily suspend the remainder of the agenda to deal with item 15) Education Funding Issue, Trustee Spice. (see Board Minute 06 -271 below) 211 • [�17 � OTTAWA-CAUETON DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD MINUTES 26 June 2006 C) Establishment of Arts Incentive Fund (Motion by Trustee Lange, seconded by Trustee Laws) A. THAT as part of each school's improvement planning process, staff be encouraged to look critically at their Arts program, assess their needs, plan for growth and new experiences, and B. THAT $170,000 be added to the instruction budget for 2006 -2007 to allow each school in the Board to have some funds to teach the arts and to allow the Board's Art Coordinator to hold an "Arts Incentive Day" for teachers to access arts resources as outlined in the proposal for the "Arts Incentive Fund ", subject to budget considerations. This was not a consent item and became item 13g). d) Special Education Advisory Committee Report No. 7, 3 May (Motion by Trustee Scott, seconded by Trustee Laws) THAT the Special Education Advisory Committee Report No. 7, dated May 3, 2006 be received. This was a consent item and the motion was carried. e) Receipt of Minutes, Trades and Technology Steering Committee, 23 March 2006 and 13 April 2006 (Motion by Trustee Spice, seconded by Trustee Laws) THAT the Trades and Technology Steering Committee minutes dated March 23, 2006 and April 13, 2006 be received. This was a consent item and the motion was carried. 0 Special Education Advisory Committee Report No. 8, 7 June 2006 (Motion by Trustee Scott, seconded by Trustee Laws) THAT the Special Education Advisory Committee Report No. 8, dated June 7, 2006 be received. This was a consent item and the motion was carried. 212 • [�17 � OTTAWA-CAUETON DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD MINUTES 26 June 2006 g) Establishment of Autism Spectrum Disorder Classes (Motion by Trustee Moen seconded by Trustee Laws) A. Two semi - integrated Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) classes at the intermediate level located in the major geographic areas of the region, with the criteria for these classes to be: i) a diagnosis of moderate to high functioning Autism, including Asperger Syndrome, and ii) a maximum class size of 10 students, with the purpose of the classes to include the development of social and organization skills to ease the transition to high school, individual academic progress, and identification of curriculum modifications for secondary school, B. One ASD secondary class to provide a semi - integrated setting for high functioning ASD students, and C. An additional staff member on the Autism Team in order to: i) assist teachers in developing Individual Education Plans (IEPs), ii) assist more schools in developing strategies for their ASD students, and iii) to liaise between parents of ASD children and OCDSB staff. This was not a consent item and became item 13h). h) Special Education Review - Recommendations for Future Work (Motion by Trustee Moen seconded by Trustee Laws) THAT taking into consideration the comments accompanying the recommendations in the Special Education Program Service Review, Phase II report (January 2006), and the Recommendations of the Special Education Steering Committee on the Report of the Special Education Review, Phase II, (May 2006), the board approve: A. Establishment of a representative panel that includes trustees, senior staff, experts from the field, and stakeholder groups, including SEAL, to undertake the development of a comprehensive plan for Special Education for the Ottawa - Carleton District School Board, B. A review of the organizational structure within the OCDSB by the Director and Senior Staff in order to consider a closer alignment of Learning Support Services and Curriculum Services and the possible decentralization of central Special Educations support staff, 213 • [�17 � OTTAWA-CAUETON DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD MINUTES 26 June 2006 C. Establishment of a small working committee made up of trustees, senior administrators and an outside facilitator to consider ways to bring a stronger sense of common purpose to the delivery of Special Education within the governance and management sectors and to build a renewed respect for both professional and guardianship roles inherent in the organizational structure, D. The development of a framework document by Learning Support Staff which sets out standards for delivery of Special Education programs and services, E. The development of detailed guidelines by Learning Support Staff, in consultation with relevant staff groups regarding the roles, responsibilities and accountability of support and professional staff within the Special Education delivery model, F. The development of a multi -year professional development plan by Learning Support Services, in conjunction with other central departments and professional associations that targets all staff to increase their knowledge of the needs of students with exceptionalities, G. The practice of including in any submission prepared by Learning Support staff for Board approval, where feasible, the true costing of the proposals, including expenditures related to transportation, facility changes or renovations, staff training and the impact to other programs in the system, H. The development of clear information tools and resource materials in collaboration with the Special Education Advisory Committee, Ottawa - Carleton Assembly of School Councils, parents and other stakeholders, I. The development of a mechanism to acquire and maintain an adequate supply of assessment instruments for use by OCDSB professional staff, The development of a work plan including timelines with a report to the October 2006 Education Committee meeting to address the following: (i) protocol for entry to school for special needs students, (ii) establishment of and expectations for operation of In- School Teams, (iii) administration and training for CCAT testing, (iv) tracking of students for whom referral procedures have been initiated, 214 • [�17 � OTTAWA-CAUETON DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD MINUTES 26 June 2006 (v) protocol for transition of exceptional students, (vi) protocol for third party professionals, (vii) staff allocation formula based on school profiles and student needs, (viii) inventory of school and system equipment and plan to support special needs students, (ix) program indicators for specialized classes, and K. the hiring of additional central staff for Learning Support Services to ensure implementation of the Special Education Review, Phase II recommendations. This was not a consent item and became item 13i). i) Approve Special Education Plan for 2005 -2006 (Motion by Trustee Scott, seconded by Trustee Laws) THAT the Board approve the OCDSB's Special Education Plan for 2005 -2006, with the changes suggested by SEAC at its 7 June 2006 meeting. This was not a consent item and became item 13j). j) Secondary Gifted Centres Recommendations for Future Work (Motion by Trustee Lange, seconded by Trustee Scott) THAT with respect to the recommendations in Appendix A of report No. 06 -140: A. Staff move forward immediately on recommendations 5 and 6, so that the consultation process can commence, with a recommendation for action being presented to the special education advisory committee (SEAL) at its November 2006 meeting, Recommendation #5 The OCDSB reduce the number of Secondary Gifted Centres from six to four. Recommendation #6 The following three criteria be considered in the removal of the secondary gifted program from two of the current six sites. 1. The impact on the school's capacity to deliver programs to non - gifted students remaining at the school, 215 • [�17 � OTTAWA-CAUETON DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD MINUTES 26 June 2006 2. The location of the school and the availability of transportation of one site relative to another gifted site, 3. The possibility that other program changes not related to gifted education would have a positive /negative impact on overall school enrolment of the schools where the centres would be removed. B. Recommendations 2, 3 and 4 be referred to the Secondary School Program Review Ad Hoc Committee for consideration, and Recommendation 2 Policy P.105.CUR and Procedure PR.629.CUR be reviewed to determine whether or not the addition of Enriched and Advanced Placement courses should be subject to more central direction. Recommendation 3 Policy P.077.PLG and Procedure PR.569.PLG be reviewed in the context of the OCDSB's attempt to support program viability at the Secondary Gifted Centres. Recommendation 4 The OCDSB examine the inclusion of Enriched and AP courses in Policy P.105.CUR and Procedure PR.629.CUR and that part of the examination of the issue include clear definitions of Enriched and AP courses and course packages. C. Recommendations 7 through 11 inclusive be referred to the appropriate staff group(s) established to set out the standards for the delivery of Special Education programs and services as cited in recommendation D of report No. 06 -145, Special Education Program and Service Review if recommendation D is approved by the Board, and if it is not, that these recommendations be referred to the Secondary School Program Review Ad Hoc Committee for consideration. Recommendation #7 The OCDSB through Curriculum Services and Learning Support Services undertake a project to assist schools in differentiation programs to address individual needs in a systematic fashion. Recommendation #8 The OCDSB examine the nature of evaluation practices in the Gifted Centres to ensure there are consistent with the written and taught curriculum but, at the 216 • [�17 � OTTAWA-CAUETON DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD MINUTES 26 June 2006 same time, that they address the legitimate concerns about lower marks and implications for post - secondary placements. Recommendation #9 The District and the Gifted Centres work together on a staff development plan that assists teachers in meeting the individualized needs of gifted students. That plan should focus on differentiation in all three aspects of teaching /learning i.e., curriculum, instruction and evaluation. Recommendation #10 The OCDSB establish, in consultation with Gifted Centre principals, a minimum standard for gifted course load at the centres. Recommendation #11 The OCDSB provide clarification on the capacity of all schools to offer French Immersion or Extended French in the Gifted Program. This was not a consent item and became item 13k). k) Receipt of Minutes, Trades and Technology Steering Committee, 11 May (Motion by Trustee Spice, seconded by Trustee Laws) THAT the Minutes of the Trades and Technology Steering Committee Meeting dated 11 May 2006 be received. This was a consent item and the motion was carried. 1) Funding for Demonstration Focus Program (Motion by Trustee Scott, seconded by Trustee Laws) THAT the 2006 -2007 budget include funding to support a demonstration focus program for implementation in 2006 -2007 such as the cabinet making project, as outlined in Appendix B of the Trades and Technology Steering Committee minutes of 11 May 2006. This was not a consent item and became item 131). m) Letter of Appreciation (Motion by Trustee Spice, seconded by Trustee Laws) 217 • [�17 � OTTAWA-CAUETON DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD MINUTES 26 June 2006 THAT the Chair of the Board write a letter of appreciation to Virginia Fobert for her considerable efforts in advancing educational issues with respect to the Secondary School Program Review Ad Hoc Committee and the Trades and Technology Steering Committee. This was a consent item and the motion was carried. n) Special Education Program and Service Review — Phase II — Recommendations (Motion by Trustee Spice) THAT taking into consideration the comments accompanying the recommendations of the Special Education Program and Service Review, Phase II (January 2006) and recommendations of the Special Education Steering Committee on the Report of the Special Education Review, Phase II (May 2006) the Board approve: A. Establishment of a representative panel that includes trustees, senior staff, experts from the field, and stakeholder groups, including SEAL, to undertake the development of a comprehensive plan for special education for the Ottawa - Carleton District School Board, B. A review of the organizational structure within the Ottawa - Carleton District School Board by the Director and Senior Staff in order to consider a closer alignment of Learning Support Services and Curriculum Services and the possible decentralization of central special education support staff, C. Establishment of a small working committee made up of trustees, senior administrators and an outside facilitator to consider ways to bring a stronger sense of common purpose to the delivery of special education within the governance and management sectors and to build a renewed respect for both professional and guardianship roles inherent in the organizational structure, D. The development of a framework document by Learning Support Staff which sets out standards for delivery of special education programs and services, E. The development of detailed guidelines by Learning Support Staff, in consultation with relevant staff groups regarding the roles, responsibilities and accountability of support and professional staff within the special education delivery model, 218 • [�17 � OTTAWA-CAUETON DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD MINUTES 26 June 2006 F. The development of a multi -year professional development plan by Learning Support Services, in conjunction with other central departments and professional associations that targets all staff to increase the knowledge and needs of students with exceptionalities. The motion was subsumed by recommendation h) above. o) Special Education Plan (Motion by Trustee Scott) THAT the Special Education Plan for 2005 -2006 be approved. Note: The Special Education Plan is available on Ottawa - Carleton District School Board web site as part of June 19, 2006 Education Committee agenda) The motion was subsumed by recommendation i) above. P) Undertaking a Study for an Enhanced Arts Programming in the Western Area (Motion by Trustee Lange, seconded by Trustee Laws) THAT staff prepare a report /study to determine how the delivery of enhanced arts programming in the western section of the City could be met, which would include one or more location(s) and the process for implementation and report back to Education Committee in the fall of 2006. This was not a consent item and became item 13m). 271. Education Funding Issue ssue Notice having been given, Trustee Spice, seconded by Trustee Laws, moved as follows: WHEREAS, the Board has regularly for the past year brought our serious budgetary situation to the attention of the Premier, the Minister of Education and Government members both with regard to particular issues (e.g. salary gap, special education and transportation) and with regard to our overall budgetary situation, WHEREAS, the grants to school boards for the 2006 -07 school year were not announced until June 12, the latest since the new funding formula was introduced in 1998, WHEREAS, not only did the grants not respond to our requirements but included unexpected major cuts including a $7 million decline in grants to compensate for enrolment declines, 219 • [�17 � OTTAWA-CAUETON DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD MINUTES 26 June 2006 WHEREAS, the Board is facing a $21 million shortfall for the 2006 -07 school year, WHEREAS, the lateness of the announcement of the grants makes it virtually impossible to develop a balanced budget given that contractual obligations with our staff, our teaching staff numbers, which are consistent with Ministry staffing directions with regard to class size and specialty teachers, must be fixed by the end of March, WHEREAS, Board senior staff on Thursday, June 22, 2006 met with the senior staff of the Ministry of Education to explain in detail the consequences of the under funding, WHEREAS, the Board has requested an urgent meeting with the Minister of Education. WHEREAS, the Board has a moral obligation to explain our budgetary situation and its consequences to the parents of our Board. THAT The Ottawa - Carleton District School Board issue a press release and send a letter to all parents via back -pack express on the last day of school for elementary students and with report cards for secondary students explaining our budgetary situation and its consequences for our students. Trustees speaking in support of the motion expressed the view that this would be the last chance to reach parents before the summer and the Board must educate the public with respect to the funding challenges that the Board will face in September. Trustees speaking against the motion expressed the view that the letter would be premature and may negatively impact discussions with the Minister. Trustee Scott, seconded by Trustee Getty, moved in amendment to delete "and its consequences for our students." 272. Adjournment A motion to continue the meeting past 11:00 p.m. did not receive unanimous support. The meeting adjourned at 11:00 p.m. Items not dealt with will be placed on the agenda of the next meeting. BAF/ Lorne M. Rachlis, Director of Education/Secretary of the Board 220 Lynn Graham, Chair of the Board