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HomeMy WebLinkAbout13a COW Report 2, Phase 2 Area Review/School Closure Study, 29 Nov 1999OTTAWA- CARLETON DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD REPORT NO. 2, COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE, PHASE II, AREA REVIEW /SCHOOL CLOSURE STUDY TO: Board of Education DATE: 29 November 1999 A meeting of Committee of the Whole Board, Phase II, Area Review /School Closure Study, was held this evening commencing at 7:30 pm in the Board Room, 133 Greenbank Road, Nepean, with Trustee Lynn Graham in the Chair, and the following in attendance: Members: Trustees Cynthia Bled, Albert Chambers, Alex Getty, Patty Ann Hill, Jim Libbey, Norm MacDonald, Sheryl MacDonald, Pam Morse, and Lynn Scott (by phone). Staff: Jim Grieve, Director of Education & Secretary of the Board; Rose -Marie Batley, Superintendent of Facilities & Physical Planning, Superintendents Judith Hoye, Ross Mac- Donald, Dan Mason, Katherine Saunders, and Judy Turriff; Michael Carson, Manager, Facilities, Physical Planning and Transportation; Planner Phil Dawes; Robert Giekes, Technician, and Brenda Cooper, Committee Coordinator. 1. Call to Order Chair Graham called the meeting to order, and welcomed those in attendance. She noted that she would call for introduction of the members of the School Study Committee later. The Director remarked that this was a challenging time, with the area review and possible school closures. He thanked the members of the School Study Committee for their many hours of hard work. He also thanked Ross MacDonald, Ron Lynch and Phil Dawes for their contributions. 2. Al2vrovT al of Agenda On a motion by Trustee Morse, the agenda was approved as presented. Public Ouestion Period Allan Martin submitted that the staff proposal regarding school closures does not take the Board's guiding principles into account. That is, the implementation of the staff recommendation would cause overcrowding and reliance on portables and create a mega - school. These factors would affect the overall quality of education. 4. Presentation by School Study Committee. Gina Rallis & Leigh Mazany Gina Rallis of the Queen Elizabeth School Council, and Leigh Mazany of the Robert Hopkins School Council thanked Superintendent Ross MacDonald, Ron Lynch and Phil Dawes for the professional way in which they made a positive contribution to the School Study Committee's (SSC) deliberations. The process has improved since last year, and it was very helpful to have staff available as a resource to the Committee. Committee of the Whole, Phase II Area Review page 1, 29 November 1999 Assisted by overhead projection, the School Study Committee's presentation was based on its report. The report was unanimous, and its conclusions were reached by consensus. The SSC's primary concern is the deleterious effect of the implementation of 100% utilization on the quality of education. The 100% utilization rate would compromise the focus on students. In Quadrant C, the impact will be greater, as the proposed utilization factor would be 105% under the staff proposal. The Committee members felt that the staff proposal was contrary to the Board's guiding principles, which call for making students the primary focus and accommodating the diversity of the community by ensuring equity, accessibility and fairness of learning opportunity. The members' specific concerns with the staff proposal were a potentially significant decrease in the quality of education (loss of programs, overcrowding and adverse effect on program delivery); equity; the need for a long -term system planning model to deal with constant school population fluctuations; under -and over - estimation of costs /savings; the impact on communities; portables; and health and safety. The SSC is concerned about the conversion and loss of English as a second language, core French and special education classrooms to regular classrooms; the inability of libraries, gymnasia and computer labs to handle additional students; the overcrowding of five of the remaining seven schools without solving the problems of schools outside the greenbelt; the loss of the MFI program; and the lack of flexibility . The SSC noted the inequity of having Quadrant C considered in isolation from the rest of the Board and closing more than the required number of pupil places. The School Study Committee therefore requests that the Board delay implementation of any Quadrant C closures until September 2001, in coordination with the reviews of the other quadrants. Members of the School Study Committee The member representatives on the School Study Committee were introduced. They remained at the podium during questions from trustees, taking turns in responding. The representatives are Carolyn Brereton (Manor Park PS), Karen Ferguson (Carson Grove PS), Ronan Gourlaouen (Lamina Dow Billings ES), Ada Hallett (York Street PS), Carolyn Lamoureux (Queen Mary PS), Jack Logan (Henry Munro MS), Leigh Mazany (Robert Hopkins PS), Julie McInness (Rockcliffe Park PS), David Moen (Le Phare ES), Gina Rallis (Queen Elizabeth PS), Pierre Seguin (Robert E. Wilson PS), Scott White (Overbrook PS), and Gary Zinck (community representative). 6. Questions from Trustees Trustee Bled noted that the School Study Committee's report echoed her own concerns about the school closure process in Quadrant C, and thanked the SSC for its fair and balanced presentation, and the members' collaborative approach. Throughout the trustee question period, trustees echoed Trustee Bled's appreciation of the School Study Committee's hard work and excellent report. In response to a query from Trustee Norm MacDonald, the members advised that the School Study Committee believed that its mandate was to respond to the staff options for Quadrant C. Committee of the Whole, Phase II Area Review page 2, 29 November 1999 /o The members did not agree on which schools, if any, should be closed, and did not feel it was within the School Study Committee's mandate to recommend alternate scenarios or schools for closure. Although the members would have liked to thorought examine possible alterna- tives, there was not enough time during the SSC's twice - weekly meetings to do so. In response to an additional question, the SSC advised that the members recognize that schools must be closed, but do not feel they know enough about the criteria used to choose the schools staff recommended for closure to make a specific response. One point the members noted was that all of the schools recommended for closure are small, and they wondered how this is reflected in the criteria. During the ensuing discussion, the members noted their concerns about the timeframe for the review of the staff options, and the limited time to consider some of the alternatives developed by staff. They felt that there was only time to examine one scenario in the allotted time, and urged that the time be lengthened for input from the other quadrants. The SSC members confirmed that aside from their request to delay Quadrant C implementation, their only recommendation is to retain middle French immersion in the quadrant. Staff confirmed that if any schools not on the current list were named for potential closure, additional time for notice and response from the community would be required. 7. Delegations * * * * 5 Minute Recess * * * * �. .. •. , Sonya Rivera of Lamira Dow Billings expressed concern about closing Lamira Dow Billings and moving the students to the much larger Henry Munro. She pointed out that if the staff recommendation is implemented, Henry Munro will have six or seven portable classrooms, rather than one. The delegation was also concerned with the cost of renovations at Henry Munro, safety issues, the lack of adequate outdoor space and playstructures, and transportation. Ms Rivera stated that Lamira Dow Billings is an asset to the Board, providing a high quality education in an excellent setting. (b) Mayor Claudette Cain. City of Gloucester Mayor Cain of Gloucester expressed appreciation to the members of the School Study Committee for their excellent work, She remarked that although school closures are outside of her jurisdiction, the issue is of such importance to the whole community, she felt it was important to provide input. She expressed great concern that three of the four schools recommended for closure are in the City of Gloucester, and particular concern that schools in good condition (Le Phare, Carson Grove and Lamira Dow Billings) are recommended for closure. She remarked that Henry Munro is older, requires updating, and would become overcrowded if the staff options were implemented. Committee of the Whole, Phase II Area Review page 3, 29 November 1999 Ms Cain noted the changing demographics of the area, and reported that Ogilvie Walk in the Carson Grove area will attract young families. In response to inquiries, Mayor Cain stated that while she is aware of the Board's funding difficulties, Gloucester is not in a position to assist with renova- tions, which would be another level of downloading. Noting that school boards have input at every step of the municipal planning process, she suggested that the Board consider carefully which school to close, especially in view of Henry Munro's age, etc. (c) Michel Bellemare, Regional Councillor and Scott Manning, RMOC Planning Regional Councillor Michel Bellemare expressed concern about school closures in his community, and the increased busing and portable classrooms which would result. He also expressed concern about the effect of school closures on the quality of education. Councillor Bellemare stated that the province needs to change its policy on 100% occupancy of schools, and noted that this policy is bad for the Regional Municipality of Ottawa - Carleton (RMOC) for a number of reasons, viz: • school closures will have a negative impact on stable neighbourhoods; • the policy threatens child care arrangements in schools; • the policy goes against the Regional Plan for residential growth inside the Greenbelt, and the province's own policy against urban sprawl; • the province's 100% occupancy requirement will force school closures in older neighbourhoods, thus encouraging further growth in the outer reaches of the Region; and • with 3,600 units planned for the Rockcliffe Air Base, the schools proposed for closure would be needed again. Mr. Bellemare stressed that Ottawa - Carleton, with its older established neighbourhoods and rapid growth outside the Greenbelt is unique. In accordance with a motion by Regional Council, the Region has requested that the province recognize a two-zone school loading model for Ottawa Carleton. The Region has also recommended an 80% utilization factor. In response to a query, Scott Manning confirmed that Regional Planning staff have ongoing discussions with OCDSB staff regarding new housing develop- ments, provincial projections, areas for future development, and other planning issues. In addition, OCDSB staff respond to planning proposals circulated by the Region. (d) Rockcliffe Park School Council, Heather Chiasson & George Greene Heather Chiasson and George Greene noted that Rockcliffe Park Public School serves students from both Quadrants A and C, and that it is important to the community that this not change. Committee of the Whole, Phase II Area Review page 4, 29 November 1999 /a. The Rockcliffe Park School Council recommends that the current catchment area for the school be maintained, and that the Board guarantee that the current students and the siblings who follow should be grandfathered. The Council is concerned that Quadrant C is being considered in isolation, and that an analysis of the long term effect on the community of school closures and boundary changes has not been done. Trustee Bled noted that one of the difficulties with the quadrants is that parents will not know which trustee to phone. (e) Michael Denny, Gloucester Councillor Michael Denny reported that he was at the meeting as a parent and as Councillor for the City of Gloucester. As a Councillor he understands the restructuring and funding problems that the OCDSB is experiencing. Mr. Denny displayed a high degree of familiarity with Gloucester schools as he outlined some of their history, and the way in which demographic changes come in predictable cycles. He stressed that the proposed school closures are not in the best interests of the community or of the Board. Referring to a survey regarding preschoolers, he noted that the school population in the area is growing again and the need for the schools will continue. (f) Carson Grove School Council, Chair Karen Ferguson With the assistance of overhead projection, Karen Ferguson spoke against the closure of the only school in the area, and displayed a map showing how dispersed the Carson Grove students would be under the staff proposal for Quadrant C. If the staff proposal is implemented, students will be split among three schools and this is of grave concern to the school community. Describing the school, Ms Ferguson noted the high number of English as a second language students at Carson Grove, and the vibrant and inclusive program they enjoy. A "mini United Nations ", the school has students from sixty -two countries, and celebrates a multitude of multicultural events throughout the year. This special community would be harmed by the closure of the school. It was also noted that the condition of the school, which is not very old, is excellent, and that it is located in the midst of parkland with access to a variety of recreational facilities. Trustees Sheryl MacDonald and Morse confirmed Ms Ferguson's description of the school, and urged their colleagues to visit Carson Grove. (g) Le Phare School Council. Chair Louise Maffett & Vice -Chair David Moen David Moen noted that Le Phare is the newest school in Quadrant C, and according to the rating by the Plant Department, in the best condition as well. He noted that Carson Grove is also highly rated, and questioned why the two highest rated schools in the Quadrant are recommended for closure. Committee of the Whole, Phase II Area Review page 5, 29 November 1999 Mr. Moen submitted that the Board's criteria were not applied in developing the Quadrant C options. Under the proposal, all students in Gloucester North would be housed in two schools, and there would be a loss of gymnasia, computer and recreational facilities. He also noted that students would lose the benefits of a dedicated French immersion centre. The Council suggested that a better solution would be the closure of Henry Munro and Overbrook, which would achieve the 100% occupancy objective. Renovations to Robert Hopkins or Le Phare would provide all the facilities available at Henry Munro, at a lower cost than than the renovations required at Henry Munro. The Council noted the research indicating the benefits of small schools. Parents do not want their children to attend Henry Munro, which would have more than 900 students under the proposed staff scenario. Staff advised that a response to this proposal would be provided in their report for the 7 December meeting to review the staffs final proposed options. (h) Queen Elizabeth School Council, Co -Chair Keith Hansen Keith Hansen reported that the Queen Elizabeth School Council is concerned that the closure of Carson Grove and Overbrook will have significant negative implications for the school. The installation of portables will result in a major reduction of outdoor playspace, even though more space will be required for the additional students, and access to the music program and computer and science labs will be uncertain. The Council also feels that the staff proposal is inequitable in its approach to middle French immersion, and to differing grandfathering approaches at each school. They recommend that any boundary changes be phased in. Other concerns include dividing children in families between schools and quadrants; students having to attend a school more distant from their home even though their current school will remain open; demographic projections; the impact of school closures in the area by other boards; and safety issues created by additional buses. (i) Overbrook School Council, Adrian Spitzer and Chris Ellis Adrian Spitzer reported that although Overbrook is a small school with only 209 students, it is an excellent school in a great location with excellent teachers, and is treasured by parents and students alike. Mr. Spitzer stated that the School Council is fighting for the school and for continuation of the middle French immersion program. He urged that the decision on school closures be delayed. Chris Ellis submitted that no schools should be closed until there has been a response from the province on 90% pupil loading, and that Quadrant C should be looked at in concert with the examination of programs, boundaries and school closures in the other quadrants. Committee of the Whole, Phase II Area Review page 6, 29 November 1999 0 (j) Denise LePage, Parent Denise LePage reported that as a design professional she has reviewed the literature on school size. Most research has concluded that small schools are generally more beneficial to students. She referred trustees to appendix B to the School Study Committee's report which addresses the school size question, and suggested that the Board should be "right- sizing ", i.e., saving small schools, and closing very large ones. Ms LePage commented that moving students into large schools such as Henry Munro may be in accord with the province's aims vis -a -vis education funding, but it is not in the best interests of children. In response to queries, Ms Lepage reported that schools are considered small with 300 -600 students, and that she felt that under 500 is a reasonable definition. Trustee Chambers noted that provincial funding provides a full - time principal at 400 students. Ms Lepage responded to a query about open concept schools by advising that although noise is of concern in these facilities, it is less important than size. Carson Grove and Robert Hopkins are open concept schools, and Lamira Dow Billings has been converted from an open concept to a traditional school. (k) Hopewell School Council (written presentation only The Committee noted a letter from the Hopewell School Council wherein the Council conveyed its consensus on supporting the establishment of a middle French immersion centre (MFI) at Hopewell for students living in Centretown, the Glebe, and old Ottawa South. The Council also supports the continuation of an ME centre in Quadrant C. The Council also recommends a comprehensive information program about the middle French immersion program and the selection of a sufficient number of MFI sites. The Chair expressed appreciation to everyone for their presentations, and the meeting adjourned at 11:00 pm. Lynn Graham, Chair Committee of the Whole Area Review/ School Closure Study BLC /cb CAR/991129 Committee of the Whole, Phase II Area Review page 7, 29 November 1999 /­J/