Fayetteville Board of Education

Minutes of the February 22, 2007 Regular Meeting

The meeting convened at 5:00PM in the Adams Leadership Center with President Steve Percival presiding. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by students from Butterfield Elementary School.

Roll Call

The roll was called and board members John Delap, Tim Kring, Howard Hamilton, Steve Percival, Susan Heil, Christine Bell, and Tim Hudson were present.

Recognition

Katy Seifritz, 6^th grade teacher at McNair Middle School, and Holly Smith, literacy coach at Washington Elementary, received an Above & Beyond Award from the Fayetteville Chamber of Commerce for their outstanding work with students. They received a $50 gift card to Powerhouse Seafood, courtesy of Professional Business Systems.

Consent Agenda

Christine Bell made a motion to accept the consent agenda. Tim Hudson seconded the motion, which passed by a 7-0 vote.

High School Committee Report

Board member Susan Heil presented information regarding the High School Select Committee, including the original charge from the Board, the process, and the options considered. Ms. Heil also presented the committee’s belief statement, which included the committee’s recommendation of one high school with a 9-12 grade configuration. Christine Bell made a motion to authorize administration to determine interest in and the value of the current high school property in order to pursue options. Howard Hamilton seconded the motion, which passed by a 7-0 vote. Susan Heil made a motion to adopt the one high school philosophy as recommended by the committee. Christine Bell seconded the motion, which passed by a 4-3 vote. After discussing issues which would affect the grade configuration for the high school, the board agreed to delay the vote on that issue. Board members agreed that any questions relating to the grade configuration for the high school should be sent to Randy Willison. Dr. Willison will prepare an executive summary and report at the March Board meeting.

Budget Revisions

The Board voted 7-0 to accept the revised 2006-07 budget. Dr. Lisa Morstad, chief financial officer, reported on specific budget items that had been revised. Howard Hamilton made the motion, which was seconded by Tim Kring.

Elementary Textbook Adoption

The Board voted 7-0 to adopt the science books published by Harcourt Brace for grades K-5. Judy New, assistant superintendent, noted that the textbooks being offered are on display in the lobby of the administration building and notices have been published in the newspaper and other publications as required. Susan Heil made the motion, which was seconded by Tim Hudson.

Contract Content for Jefferson Building Lease

The Board voted 6-1 to establish a rental rate of $8.00 per square foot for the entire square footage of the Jefferson building for use in preparation of lease documents and negotiation. Randy Willison pointed out several things to consider when calculating the amount to be charged. Susan Heil made the motion, which was seconded by Howard Hamilton. The Board then directed administration to negotiate the length of the potential lease and bring this back at the March meeting.

Voluntary Enrollment Choice

The Board voted 6-1 to allow open enrollment into Washington and Leverett Elementary schools with the understanding that parents would provide transportation and administration will provide transfer guidelines. Ginny Wiseman, associate superintendent for administration, noted that issues such as staffing, Title 1 funds and late transfer approval need to be considered. Tim Kring made the motion, which was seconded by Susan Heil.

Policy 6.14

Dr. Randy Willison, associate superintendent for operations, reported that administration met with Rudy Moore, Jr., school district attorney, and principals regarding Policy 6.14 (Religion in the Schools). Principals then met with faculty at faculty meetings and also discussed the policy with PTOs. In addition, Policy 6.14 is posted on the district website.

Executive Session and Adjournment

The Board convened in executive session at 9:30PM to discuss an employment matter. The meeting adjourned at 10:10PM with no other business coming before the Board.

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Stephen M. Percival, President Susan W. Heil, Secretary