CLC Board Meeting Minutes
8/23/01
Attending: Lauri Perman, Katharine Dixon, Donna Fischer, Liz Kisenwether, Malena Moore, Giles Driscoll, Glenn Johnson, Mark J. Toci, Brian Rowan, Theresa Shay, M.J. Hogan, Diane Lehman, Jean Morrow, Ann Bolser, Denise Kochersperger
The Board meeting began at 9:00 p.m.
I. Approval of the Minutes
The minutes of the 7/5/01 meeting were approved.
II. Business
A. Welcome New Teacher Representatives
Theresa Shay and Mark Toci have been elected by the teachers to serve as Teacher Representatives to the Board.
B. Update on approval of all personnel contracts to date
Katharine Dixon has joined the staff as the lead teacher in Team 3. Andrew McKinnon has joined as the assistant teacher with Theresa Shay.
Mike Weitzel is the new assistant teacher in Team 3; he will also be the special education coordinator. Katharine and Donna also bring experience and credentials in special education. The other assistant teachers' contracts have been renewed. Brad will be returning as a math coordinator. Michele Rivera has been hired as an arts coordinator. Kelly Kennedy has been hired as the Extended School Program Coordinator.
C. Research/Evaluation Activities for the coming school year
A table was distributed showing the research/evaluation plan for the coming school year in contrast to the previous school year. It was approved that Coopersmith Self-esteem inventory be taken at home at the beginning, middle, and end of school year. In addition, the Assessment of Learner Centered Principles will be taken at home in the middle of the school year. These two instruments will form the basis for Malena Moore's doctoral dissertation and will provide comparative data with the SCASD. The proposed plan was approved by the Board. A concern was expressed that these data should be shared with parents.
D. New Facility
1. F unding. We have until August 31 to get the funding through the Ferguson Township Industrial Development Authority. If that is not accomplished, we will get a conventional loan.
2. Permits. Glenn has been working on plans for the Department of Labor and Industry which are necessary in order to get the necessary permits for remodeling. He is currently working with the Centre Region Codes office in order to secure the necessary permits for the renovations that are required for occupancy of the building.
3. Internet status. The network was completely redesigned and should be working in the near future. Liz Kisenwether recommended that the CLC investigate current eligibility for Link to Learn funds to help pay for some of these costs.
4. The Board unanimously approved (5-0) the remodeling plan in accordance with life, safety and ADA criteria.
E. External audit status
The auditor is expected to arrive at CLC on September 4.
F. Insurance coverages
Ann Bolser is currently reviewing CLC insurance policies and practices. A concern was expressed about having adequate insurance and policies to govern laptop ownership. The use of laptops poses many new logistical challenges for families and parents. Ann was asked to investigate the Latrobe Area School District's experience using laptops very broadly.
G. Annual report
On Monday, August 27, the SCASD Board will review the CLC's Annual Report. Glenn Johnson will make a short presentation to the Board at that time.
III. Financial
A. Election Cycle of Representatives/Financial Oversight Person
Glenn requested authority to recruit a volunteer to assist the CLC in financial oversight. The Board confirmed that Glenn has the authority to recruit volunteer consultants to assist him and other staff and does not need the Board's prior permission to do so. Since the community representative's term ends in December, it is time to begin recruiting prospective Board members to the position.
B. Internal Auditors
The internal auditors have nearly completed their work.
C. Budget Review
Current under-enrollment of 7 students poses challenges to our budget which depends on full enrollment.
D. Enrollment and Advertising
A concern was expressed about starting the school year without full enrollment. The Board requested stepped up newspaper advertising and radio advertising in the next two weeks. The Board agreed on the importance of establishing an ample waiting list. The Board agreed to advertise for an unpaid public relations intern from Penn State. A suggestion was made to try to revisit with the SCASD distributing CLC brochures in the SCASD schools. A suggestion was made to distribute brochures at the Grange Fair. The Board was not certain what the consequences would be if the CLC doesn't have full enrollment.
E. Authorization to Pay Bills
The Board approved paying the bills.
F. CLC Receives Grant
Comprehensive School Reform Demonstration Grant for $150,000 over the next three years was received. In addition, a mini-grant in Math was also received.
IV. The Board meeting adjourned at 10:40 p.m.