Guilford School Board Minutes

GUILFORD SCHOOLBOARD

MINUTES

GUILFORD TOWN SCHOOL BOARD

Windham Southeast Supervisory Union

53 Green Street, Brattleboro, VT 05301

www.wssu.k12.vt.us

TOWN OF GUILFORD SCHOOL BOARD MINUTES

April 5, 2010

Present: Kevin Freitas-Board Chair, Carole Mills, Jody Hauser, John Gagnon- GCS Principal,

Ron Stahley-WSESU Superintendent, Katie Buckley –Administrative Asst Selectboard, Jim Kane, Troy Revis-Selectboard, Dick Clark-Selectboard, Anne Rider-Selectboard, Paul Dery-School board.

I. CALL TO ORDER – Kevin Freitas, Board Chair

II. Carol makes motion to accept Paul Dery as our new board member for 1 year seat.

2^nd by Kevin, vote - unanimous

III. RECOGNITION OF GROUPS AND/OR INDIVIDUAL VISITORS

Brattleboro Reformer -Chris Garafolo

GCS Parents -Penny Lussier – has requested an open forum about the multi-age groups

Jody Hauser received communication from Concerned Citizens of Guilford (CCOG).

IV. ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT

A . John Gagnon

-Fomag Concert 4/2/10

-Boiling Day 4/5/10, Farm to School Project. Tony Zumbruski donated 60gal sap

-Letter went home with students Re: Mixed Age Classroom

Late April potential meeting with parents about mixed age classrooms

Mixed age teaching assignments:

K-1 Margaret Dale Barrand / Karen Duggan

2-3 Sue Bos / Kathy Lapan / New Teacher tbd

4-5 Mary Ingram / Dave Maslauskas

7:27pm Motion by Carol to go into executive session while inviting Selectboard, Admin Asst and John Gagnon. 2^nd by Jody, vote – unanimous.

8:10pm Executive session ends, action taken.

Carol makes motion that GSB will attend Selectboard meeting on April 26 at 6:30 at the Town Office to discuss mutual concerns regarding treasurer. 2^nd by Jody, vote – unanimous

V. FINANCE

Sub-committee for P.D.

Finance Committee for P.D.

Certified Nogotiations – P.D.

Building & Grounds – P.D.

VI. AGENDA ITEMS for 4/26/10

A. Review Policies on Transportation

VI. AGENDA ITEMS for 5/5/10

A. Paul Smith discuss NECAPs

B. Brian Buettner – literacy coach

Next meeting April 26 at 5:30 pm to replace the April 19 meeting.

Note: A note to Jim Kane about all the effort he has been doing in our current situation.

*Barb- a copy of the Statute of School Board Rules and Responsibilities.

Carol moves to adjourn at 9:33pm. 2^nd by Kevin, vote – unanimous.

TOWN OF GUILFORD SCHOOL BOARD MINUTES

MARCH 8, 2010

Present: Kevin Freitas, Carole Mills, Jody Hauser, Dan Systo, John Gagnon–GCS Principal, Ron Stahley–WSESU Superintendent

I. CALL TO ORDER - 6:30- Ron Stahley – WSESU Superintendent

II. NOMINATION OF BOARD POSITIONS

A. Board Chair – Carole nominates Kevin, Jody 2^nd, vote - unanimous

B. Board Vice-Chair – Kevin nominates Carole, Jody 2nds, vote - unanimous

C. Board Clerk – Carole nominates Jody, Kevin 2nds, vote - unanimous

D. Board WSESU voting members – Kevin nominates Carole, Jody, & Dan, Dan 2nds, vote – unanimous

E. Establish meeting days & times - 1^st & 3^rd Mon. of the month @ 6:30 pm

F. NEW COMMITTEES ASSISGNMENTS

1. Action planning - Jody, afternoons at 3:30

2. Building and grounds - Kevin & Dan

3. Diversity & Equity - Have staff representation

4. Finance - Dan

5. Transportation - Kevin

6. Health Action - Carole, Wed. 3:30

7. Fundraising

8. Negotiations classified - Carole (3-30-10)

9. Negotiations non-classified - Jody & Kevin

10. Technology - Kevin & Carole

11. Hiring-ad hoc - Kevin & Jody

III. RECOGNITION OF GROUPS AND/OR INDIVIDUALS

A. Paul & Jennifer Dery - Paul expressed an interest in becoming involved with the GSB.

B. CCG – Vita Pisciotta, Marge Wocell – Vita wanted to know why we were not assigning a 5^th member to the board, Kevin responded that the process allows for 30 days with letters of intent & interviewing to occur beforehand.

1. Ron passed out copies of 16 VSA 424 Vacancies for further clarification

IV. FINANCE

A. Approval of warrants

Carole moved to accept payroll for Jan 12, 2010 & Feb. 12, 2010, Dan 2^nd, vote - unanimous

V. UNFINISHED BUSINESS

A. All community members interested in joining the Guilford School Board need to send a letter of intent to Principal John Gagnon by 3-15-10. On this date at our regularly scheduled meeting the GSB will conduct interviews with all interested candidates.

B. Letter from Piecak & Co – Statement of Agreement

VI. AGENDA ITEMS

A. Fundraising/Endowment Comm.

B. Interviewing potential candidates

C. Go over Board policy for new members

Carole motioned to adjourn at 8:30, Dan 2^nd, vote - unanimous

TOWN OF GUILFORD SCHOOL BOARD MINUTES

MARCH 2, 2010

Present: Kevin Freitas, Arthur Pettee, Timm Harris, Carole Mills, John Gagnon- GCS Principal, Ron Stahley - WSESU Superintendent

Absent: Lisa Ford,

I. CALL TO ORDER - 8:47 - Kevin Freitas, Board Chair

II. Town meeting prep

A. Assign articles to represent during meeting

B. Look over special articles paperwork

III. FINANCE

A. Approval of warrants

# 1065 in the amount of $ 33.30 - benefits

# 1066 in the amount of $ 36,097.61 - benefits (dental/disability)

# 1068 in the amount of $ 666 - transportation

# 1069 in the amount of $ 122.10 - transportation

# 1070 in the amount of $ 9780.24 - purchase orders

# 1061 in the amount of $ 81.68 - operating expenses

# 1063 in the amount of $ 1977.26 - operating expenses

Arthur moved to accept the warrants, Carole 2^nd, vote - unanimous

IV. UNFINISHED BUSINESS

A. Timm moved to pay no additional monies to school treasurer beyond what has been paid to date, Carole 2^nd, vote - unanimous

Kevin moved to recess @ 9:30 until town meeting began @ 10 AM, Timm 2^nd, vote- unanimous

TOWN OF GUILFORD SCHOOL BOARD MINUTES

FEBRUARY 22, 2010

Present: Kevin Freitas, Arthur Pettee, Timm Harris, Carole Mills,

Absent: Lisa Ford

I. CALL TO ORDER - 6:30 - Kevin Freitas, Board Chair

II. REVIEW AND PRIORITIZE AGENDA BY CHAIRPERSON

A. Move NEW BUSINESS - Financial records to after REVIEW AND PRIORITIZE AGENDA BY CHAIRPERSON

III. NEW BUSINESS

A. Financial records - Tim Fogg from Piecak & Co. noted some concern over account reconciliations.

Kevin motioned to secure services of Piecak & Co to reconcile bank account for June 2008-July 2009, Carole 2^nd, vote - unanimous

B. Arthur moved to accept the retirement of Dale Morse, Carole 2^nd, vote- unanimous with our thanks for her many years of service to GCS

C. Town Meeting Prep

1. Start our meeting at 8:30 to solidify our agenda for the meeting on 3-2-10 (needs to be warned)

IV. CLERK’S REPORT

A. Approval of minutes - Carole moved to accept the minutes from 1-27-10 as written, Arthur 2^nd, vote - unanimous Carole moved to accept the minutes from 2-1-10 as written, Arthur 2^nd, vote - unanimous

V. RECOGNITION OF GROUPS AND/OR INDIVIDUALS

A. Tim Fogg - with Piecak & Co

Arthur moved to adjourn at 8:30, Timm 2^nd, vote - unanimous

TOWN OF GUILFORD SCHOOL BOARD MINUTES

FEBRUARY 1, 2010

Present: Kevin Freitas, Arthur Pettee, Carole Mills, John Gagnon – GCS Principal, Conrad Dumas – WSESU rep.

Absent: Lisa Ford, Timm Harris

I. CALL TO ORDER – 6:30 – Kevin Freitas, Board Chair

II. REVIEW AND PRIORITIZE AGENDA BY CHAIRPERSON

III. CLERK’S REPORT

A. Approval of minutes – Carole moved to accept the minutes from 1-19-10 as written, Arthur 2^nd, vote – unanimous

B. Communications – letter from CCG, letter from auditors – will go to Jim Kane for further information

IV. ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT

A. Conrad handed out information from Jim Kane regarding the warrants for notes.

Kevin moved to enter into ES inviting John & Conrad at 6:45 for contractual matter, Arthur 2^nd, vote – unanimous out at 7:03

Arthur moved to authorize Superintendent Stahley to extend sick days to meet the disability criteria as he deems appropriate for the remainder for the 2009-2010 school year, Carole 2^nd, vote – unanimous

V. FINANCE

A. Approval of warrants

# 1057 in the amount of $ 12.00 administrators fee

# 1059 in the amount of 689.73 disability & life insurance benefits

# 1060 in the amount of 33,981.08 health & dental benefits

# 1062 in the amount of 6,395.28 purchase orders

$41,078.09

Arthur moved to accept the warrants, Carole 2^nd, vote – unanimous

VI. COMMITTEE REPORTS

A. Building and Grounds – $3000 voted in for energy efficiency use needs to be verified by treasurer

1. Look at cost of enclosing front porch as recommended through energy audit

VII. NEW BUSINESS

A. Town Meeting – tabled

Kevin moved to adjourn at 7:40, Carole 2^nd, vote – unanimous

TOWN OF GUILFORD SCHOOL BOARD MINUTES

January 27, 2010

Present: Kevin Freitas, Arthur Pettee, Lisa Ford, Timm Harris, Carole Mills, John Gagnon- GCS Principal, Ron Stahley – WSESU Superintendent

I. CALL TO ORDER – 6:35 – Kevin Freitas, Board Chair

II. RECOGNITION OF GROUPS AND/OR INDIVIDUALS

A. CCG – Vita Pisciotta, Marge Wocell

III. Kevin requests a ES for personnel reasons, invites John & Ron in at 6:48, out at 7:07

A. Timm moves to have the GSB authorize GCS to offer two retirement incentives to qualified staff members, Arthur 2^nd, vote – unanimous

IV. FYI ‘11 Budget

A. Asian Studies – Ron informed us that if the budget was cut as recommended for this program, the district will no longer receive the services, thus eliminating Asian studies at GCS.

B. ESL services, John spoke with ESL personnel, funding needed will be reduced since they will now be done in house rather than outside of the district.

C. Warning articles – ready to sign

Carole moved to accept the warning articles for Town Meeting 3-2-10, Lisa 2^nd, vote – unanimous

D. Arthur moved to approve a budget of $2,794,129.00, Lisa 2^nd, vote – unanimous

V. AGENDA ITEMS

A. 3-1-10 Pre Town Meeting

B. Town Meeting

C. No meeting 2-15-10, changed to 2-22-10

Arthur moved to adjourn at 7:27, Carole 2^nd, vote – unanimous

TOWN OF GUILFORD SCHOOL BOARD MINUTES

JANUARY 19, 2010

Present: Kevin Freitas, Arthur Pettee, Lisa Ford, Carole Mills, John Gagnon – GCS Principal, Ron Stahley – WSESU Superintendent

Absent: Timm Harris

I. CALL TO ORDER – 6:39 – Kevin Freitas, Board Chair

II. REVIEW AND PRIORITIZE AGENDA BY CHAIRPERSON

A. Move ES to after CLERK’S REPORT

III. CLERK’S REPORT

A. Approval of minutes – Carole moved to accept minutes from 1-4-10 as written, Arthur 2^nd, vote – unanimous

Arthur moved to accept minutes from 1-11-10 as written, Carole 2^nd, John noted that under III. B. 1. number should be 8540 & under III.D. 5. number should be 1000, vote – unanimous with corrections

B. Communications – petition to put article on town meeting agenda

IV. EXECUTIVE SESSION

Arthur moved to enter ES at 6:53 inviting John & Ron for negotiations – out at 7:27 with no action taken

V. RECOGNITION OF GROUPS AND/OR INDIVIDUALS

A. GCS parent – Alice Revis

VI. ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT

A. Ron’s Superintendents’ report

1. Passed out warrants for payroll October thru ½ of Jan 2010

2. Article warnings for March 2, 2010 – unable to sign till Jackie Root verifies

signatures from petition

VII. FINANCE

A. Approval of warrants

# 1053 in the amount of $3443.58 Benefits

# 1054 in the amount of $3791.34 Preschool funds

# 1056 in the amount of $9709.37 Purchase orders

Arthur moved to accept the warrants, Carole 2^nd, vote – unanimous

October payroll $132,018.82

November payroll $122,408.03

December payroll $186,080.17

½ January payroll $ 62,103.36

Kevin moved to accept payroll from October 2009 – ½ January 2010, Arthur 2^nd, vote – unanimous

VIII. COMMITTEE REPORTS

A. Transportation – 4th bus sold for $750 to Stratton Mountain

IX. UNFINISHED BUSINESS

A. FY ‘11 budget – discussion/action needed

1. Kevin did some preliminary computer research

a. PC netbooks – $300 with life expectancy for ones used regularly by number of students – 2-2 ½ years, non-assigned – 5-7 years

b. Mac laptops – $800 with life expectancy for ones used regularly by number of students – 3 years

2. Alice would like to see $7000 line items for computer hardware for both Elementary, & Middle School budgets decreased

3. Carole moved to have John redo budget to an operating budget for grades K-8 of $279,385.00 with the following guidelines, Lisa 2^nd, vote –unanimous

a. Certified salaries at 0% increase

b. Classified salaries at 1% increase

c. Asian Studies down to $1500

d. Equity Coordinator (WSESU employee at 2 days/wk) down $500

e. Elementary subs down to $200

f. Administrative sub down to $1000

g. Custodial sub down to $1000

h. Custodial supplies down to $10,000

Carole move to adjourn at 8:45, Arthur 2^nd, vote – unanimous

TOWN OF GUILFORD SCHOOL BOARD MINUTES

January 11, 2010

Present: Kevin Freitas, Arthur Pettee, Lisa Ford, Timm Harris, Carole Mills, John Gagnon- GCS Principal, Jim Kane- WSESU Finance Guru

I. CALL TO ORDER - 6:40 - Kevin Freitas, Board Chair

II. RECOGNITION OF GROUPS AND/OR INDIVIDUALS

A. Community members – Jenny Ladner, Roberta Bremmer, Jody Hauser, Katie Buckley, Don McLean

B. GCS staff – Susan Hessey

C. CCOG – Vita Pisciotta, Marge Wocell

III. FINANCE

A. Budget

B. Info from Jim

1. VT state allowing $85,400 per pupil spending

2. Increased residential tax rate of $.2

3. From legislature

a. Special Ed. funding with a 60-40 split (State-local district)

b. Small schools grant- looking at eliminating- no word for this year yet

c. Transportation funding - 45% is funded by state

d. Equalized Pupil Count (EPC) - 167.12; up 8 from 2008-09

e. Penalty cap at $14,549 GCS $13,401 - we are well under the need for a second

vote

4. Bond items – can be amended on the floor for the amount

5. Still unsure amount in Major Repairs fund- need final figures from school treasurer

C. General discussions

1. John - online algebra course free with grant, John & Kevin Royce looking at lower cost program which is being piloted by a couple of s students.

2. Susan - computers are used by students for; math, word processing, multimedia presentations, & research

a. Lisa would like to see $2000 stay in Tech Ed. salary & remove $2000 from computer hardware eliminating purchasing of 2 laptops for staff who would be using them to bring more technology into their classrooms, until meeting with Tech. Comm. to work out ground up system for GCS

3. Kevin - request of GSB to meet with members of the Tech. Comm. to see about process to design system from the ground up for GCS

4. Lisa - look at reducing amount of copier paper used- Susan informed us that with the current math curriculum, no text is used so copies for student use are high for this. Would like to see copier line item reduced

5. Arthur & Jim went over bond/note items as part of 5 year plan- Jim provided 4

different scenarios

a. Timm moved to follow proposal for long term note at 3% with principle deferred for the first year, Arthur 2^nd, vote- unanimous

b. Arthur motioned for a special article for each of the three capital expenditures separately, Carole 2^nd, vote- unanimous

6. Timm- would like to see 1% increase in salary for both certified & noncertified staff worked into budget - both groups are currently in the negotiation process.

7. Timm - would like to see payments for BSB members eliminated

a. Kevin reminded us that if we do this it can only be reinstated during a Town Meeting, which would effect future boards, not just the current one.

b. Timm moved to no longer have a line item for SB member salaries, Lisa 2^nd, vote - yes 1, no 4, abstention 1

D. Kevin moved to direct John to come up with a budget with cuts of $25-28K within the following guidelines;

1. Certified & non certified staff with 1% salary increases

2. Separate line item for Support & training of new C

3. Decrease line items for Support & training of new Administrative Assistant & Administrative Assistant salary by 15K

4. Decrease Tech Ed salary by $2000 or computer hardware line item

5. Decrease supplies line items by $10000

6. Decrease teacher course reimbursement line item by $1000

7. Decrease substitute line item by $500

8. Decrease bus fund line item by $6000

(this is with the assumption that #1 costs will = 13K)

Carole 2^nd, vote- unanimous

Arthur motioned to adjourn at 10 PM, Carole 2^nd, vote- unanimous

TOWN OF GUILFORD SCHOOL BOARD MINUTES

January 4, 2010

Present: Kevin Freitas, Arthur Pettee, Lisa Ford, Timm Harris, Carole Mills, John Gagnon – GCS Principal, Paul Smith – WSESU Curriculum Coordinator

I. CALL TO ORDER – 6:35 – Kevin Freitas, Board Chair

II. REVIEW AND PRIORITIZE AGENDA BY CHAIRPERSON

A. Move NEW BUSINESS to after ADMIN. REPORTS

III. CLERK’S REPORT

A. Approval of minutes – Arthur moved to accept the minutes from 12-21-09 as written, Carole 2^nd, vote – unanimous

IV. RECOGNITION OF GROUPS AND/OR INDIVIDUALS

A. 8^th grade students & parents; Alice, Troy, & Dan Revis, Brenda & Alicia Hogenmiller, Matt & Elizabeth Martyn, Jody Hauser, Katie Buckley, Emma Chapman

V. ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT

A. John’s Principal’s report, copies available upon request

B. Paul Smith WSESU report – reminder of Legislative breakfast in Chester, VT on 1-11-2010 Timm & Kevin to attend

VI. NEW BUSINESS

A. 8^th grade class trip presentation – requesting June 10-13 off from school to go to New York City. Great agenda! Timm moved to approve June 10-13, 2010 off from school for the 8^th grade class to attend a class trip, Arthur 2^nd, vote – unanimous

B. Act 250 application; a dairy wants to build near the Omega campus – potential of new families into area which would affect enrollment at GCS.

Timm moved to direct Ron Stahley to notify dairy that the GSB supports their Act 250 application, Lisa 2^nd, vote – unanimous

VII. FINANCE

A. Approval of warrants

# 1048 in the amount of $ 854.70 - Special ed. transportation

# 1049 in the amount of $ 299.95 - reimbursement

# 1051 in the amount of $ 30,703.39 - benefits

# 1052 in the amount of $ 11,217.66 - purchase orders

Arthur moved to accept the warrants, Carole 2^nd, vote – unanimous

Payroll does not need a warrant just notification of the transfer of funds need go before the GSB.

B. Jackie Root announced to the selectboard that she is resigning as town & school treasurer as of Feb 2010.

C. Year end financial report – not in yet – tabled

VIII. COMMITTEE REPORTS

A. Building and Grounds – Arthur let us know that the 50% matching grant from EM for a generator for the school was due 1-29-10 with a cost break down for the generator & costs for wiring & installing. Katie informed us that this is done annually. Arthur wasn’t sure we could get all the information ready for this year.

IX. UNFINISHED BUSINESS

A. FY ‘11 budget discussion – put off due to no state information on revenue

special meeting on 1-11-10 for this item only

B. 5 year plan – do we want to begin this year with some of the capital - improvements & how do we go about it? bond/set up capital account

1. Arthur is for seeking a bond for the immediate needs of the kitchen & perimeter

paving then begin to increase amount put into the Major Repairs Fund from 6K to 9K for future work to be done annually.

2. Timm would like to see the gym floor added to bond item

3. Lisa would like to see a capital fund created for future work with fundraising being

the major source of this - would need someone within the community to spear head this effort.

4. Kevin requested information from Jim Kane regarding bonds which Paul Smith

will pass on

C. Treasurer reimbursements – tabled till next regular meeting

X. AGENDA ITEMS- 1-11-10

A. Budget process only

XII. AGENDA ITEMS 1-19-10

A. Treasurer reimbursement

B. 5 year plan

C. Year end financial report

TOWN OF GUILFORD SCHOOL BOARD MINUTES

November 11, 2009

Present: Kevin Freitas, Arthur Pettee, Carole Mills, Lisa Ford, John Gagnon- GCS Principal

Absent: Timm Harris

I. CALL TO ORDER – 9 AM – Kevin Freitas, Board Chair

II. Meet with John to discuss agenda

III. Spend day with student body

A. Meeting with 4^th grade students

1. 4^th grade Spirit Week suggestions – PJ day, crazy hair day, mismatch day, school colors day

2. 4^th grade lap top day

3. Swivel chairs

4. Study hall time during school hours

5. Longer lunches & recess

6. More cushion chairs

7. Longer gym period

8. To raise money, more bake sales

B. Meeting with Student Government

1. Ipods during study hall – have list of rules to submit to Mr. G.

2. Cell phone issues by couple of kids need to be resolved first

3. We were asked if there was anything the GSB would like the Student Council to work on.

C. Staff meeting

1. Winter sports – from 2^nd survey sent out 113 students now participating with another

4 skiing with family = 71%.

a. Those not participating – what would they be interested in doing instead? cooking, book binding, knitting…

b. Get some parents, GSB members, & staff members together to brainstorm ideas

c. Provide transportation at end of the day for those at the school.

d. Groups – mixed/target groups

e. What staff members want to be involved & how?

f. Create honor system application for those doing alternative activity with family.

2. Response to Intervention (RTI) – district come up with comprehensive assessment procedure for use with students.

IV. Staff meeting 3:15 - 4:45

V. Adjourn at 4:45

TOWN OF GUILFORD SCHOOL BOARD MINUTES

Dec 21, 2009

Present: Kevin Freitas, Arthur Pettee, Timm Harris, Carole Mills, John Gagnon- GCS Principal, Conrad Dumas and Ron Staley, WSESU

(Absent: Lisa Ford)

I. CALL TO ORDER – 6:32 – Kevin Freitas, Board Chair

II. REVIEW AND PRIORITIZE AGENDA BY CHAIRPERSON

Agenda amended to hold an Executive Session as the first order of business.

III. CLERK’S REPORT

A. Approval of minutes – Ms. Mills moved to approve the minutes of Nov 11, Nov 16, and Dec 7 as written, Mr. Pettee seconded. Minutes of Dec 7 amended to show change in Section VI B, whereby the Treasurer is asked to provide details of all 88 hours worked on the accounts. Minutes were approved.

B. Communications – Ms. Kerber’s retirement notification for end of school year received, Katie Buckley email to Mr. Pettee on possible availability of generator thru ‘Emergency Management Committee’ shared, Mr. Gagnon to follow up, Energy Audit to be received this week; second draft of FY 2011 budget was distributed and preliminary draft of buildings and grounds capital plan distributed.

IV. ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS

A. WSESU – WSESU Superintendent gave a briefing on the preliminary negotiations on WSESU contracts.

B. Winter Sports – Mr. Gagnon reports a 66% (107 students) as signed up and parent volunteers as identified. The program will move forward.

V. FINANCE

A. Approval of Warrants – The following nine warrants were moved for approval by Mr. Pettee and seconded by Ms. Mills. They were approved unanimously.

# 1046 in the amount of $195.00

#1047 in the amount of $6,012.00

An additional warrant was received from the Treasurer (Payroll). It was incomplete, not fully documented, cover sheet not done right, and some numbers were apparently missing. Additionally, the Board noted that the Payroll warrants for many months have not been received. Mr. Gagnon and Mr. Dumas are to follow-up with Mr. Kane.

B. Treasurer’s Payment Request – The request for payment made by the Treasurer to the Board is incomplete, as the 25 hours listed in November and December lack any details on when and what was done. Mr. Gagnon will follow up with Ms. Root.

C. Expenditure Account – Mr. Freitas has received the expenditure report for July 1, Dec. 20 from WSESU Finance. He will send it via email to all Board members. This will be an excellent tool for tracking GCS financial status in a timely fashion.

VI. Committees

Building and Grounds – Committee met with custodians and with potential contractors over the last two weeks and prepared a draft list of a capital plan for the next five years. Priority investment requirements were identified - firelane paving, gym floor resurfacing, and kitchen equipment replacement (stove, counters, shelves). Targets of opportunity were also identified – fridge, freezer, bus park, windows, painting and thermostats. Further work and refinement on/of this plan and the overall five-year plan will continue.

VI. UNFINISHED BUSINESS

A. FY 2011 Budget – This is still a work in progress, as salaries need to be modified, little info available from the State on education allocations and some corrections/clarifications are needed.

B. Payment to Treasurer – Treasurer’s reimbursement will still need to be decided by the Board.

C. Five-Year Plan – Further work and discussion are still needed.

There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 9:00 pm. The next meeting is scheduled for Jan. 4 at 6:30 pm.

Meeting was adjourned at 9:00 pm.

GUILFORD CENTRAL SCHOOL BOARD GOALS

2009-2010

1. Supporting & Assessing Effectiveness of Responsive Classroom

2. Revising Behavior Plan

3. Developing a Five-Year Plan

4. Improving School Communications

5. Improving School Board Operations

6. Conducting Policy Reviews

TOWN OF GUILFORD SCHOOL BOARD MINUTES

December 7, 2009

Present: Kevin Freitas, Arthur Pettee, Timm Harris, Carole Mills, John Gagnon – GCS Principal, Jim Kane – WSESU Business Administrator

Absent: Lisa Ford

I. CALL TO ORDER – 6:40 – Kevin Freitas, Board Chair

II. REVIEW AND PRIORITIZE AGENDA BY CHAIRPERSON

A. Move UNFINISHED BUSINESS to after FINANCE

III. CLERK’S REPORT

A. Communications – treasurer’s letter

IV. ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT

A. John’s Principal’s report – copies available upon request

B. Jim’s financial report

1. Handed out copies of blank capital plan worksheet – Kevin requested copy with

grid in place

2. Handed out letter regarding our Capital Plan work

3. Long discussion regarding budget for upcoming year

4. Recommended rethinking how any surplus would be used – hold some in separate

fund for use in the next fiscal year with the potential of other funding sources

being lower then.

5. Applied for a 19K grant to be used to replace gym lighting. We would need to

match with 17K

6. John has info. for Jim from Troy regarding Capital Plan

VI. FINANCE

A. Approval of warrants

# 1042 in the amount of $ 34,141.10 benefits

# 1044 in the amount of $ 37,504.47 purchase orders

Arthur moved to accept warrant 1042 Timm 2^nd, vote – unanimous

Arthur moved to accept warrant 1044 Carole 2^nd, vote – unanimous

B. Ratification of treasurer’s disbursement for closing 08-09 books

1. Barbara Oles worked 46-47 hours at $25/hr

Jackie Root worked 88 hours at $18/hr

2. Tabled till entire board present

VII. COMMITTEE REPORTS

A. Diversity & equity -

1. Report from Stuart Strothman – copies available upon request

VIII. UNFINISHED BUSINESS

A. FY ‘11 budget discussion

B. Follow up on 5 year plan – tabled until entire board present

VIII. AGENDA ITEMS

A. Ratification of treasurer’s disbursement for closing 08-09 books

B. Follow up on 5 year plan – tabled until entire board present

Arthur moved to adjourn at 8:40, Carole 2^nd, vote – unanimous

TOWN OF GUILFORD SCHOOL BOARD MINUTES

November 30, 2009

Present: Kevin Freitas, Arthur Pettee, Lisa Ford, Timm Harris, Carole Mills, John Gagnon – GCS Principal, Ron Stahley – WSESU Superintendent

I. CALL TO ORDER – 6:34 – Kevin Freitas, Board Chair

II. WORK SESSION Discussion – 5 year plan

A. Capital Improvement Plan

1. Building & Grounds

2. Technology Resources

B. Curriculum & assessment

1. Responsive Classroom with Behavioral Plan

a. Follow up with ongoing training & evaluations

2. Foreign language

a. Funding?

b. Grade levels to be used?

c. Researching options

d. Now Chinese grades 1-5

3. School Action Plan

a. Literacy instruction

b. Math instruction

c. Foreign language instruction

d. Implication of new technologies

e. Academic performance

f. Data collection

4. Expansion of arts program

5. Wellness within school

a. Food program – increase local foods used

6. Professional development

a. Over & above the 1% grants

C. Program Development

1. Arts outreach

a. FOMAG

· Before/ after school

. b. NEYT

· Before/ after school

c. Arts with social aspect – some Drug Free monies may be able to fund

2. Enhance programs already in place

a. What do we have & how can they be expanded?

b. Service learning

c. Place based education

· Farm to school program

3. Extended day

a. Remedial work with students with social/emotional issues

b. Adventure education for middle school

c. Enrichment – broad based available for entire school or academic based

(algebra online)

4. Funding options

a. Assembly $2000

b. Field trips $1000

5. Athletics

6. Winter sports

D. Funding

Kevin moved to adjourn at 8:23, Lisa 2^nd, vote – unanimous

TOWN OF GUILFORD SCHOOL BOARD MINUTES

November 16, 2009

Present: Arthur Pettee, Lisa Ford, Carole Mills, John Gagnon – GCS Principal, Ron Stahley – WSESU Superintendent

Absent: Timm Harris, Kevin Freitas,

I. CALL TO ORDER – 6:39 – Arthur Pettee, Board Vice-Chair

II. REVIEW AND PRIORITIZE AGENDA BY CHAIRPERSON

A. Add Winter Sports to UNFINISEHDBUSINESS

III. CLERK’S REPORT

A. Approval of minutes – Carole moved to approve minutes from 11-2-09, Lisa 2^nd –with the following amendments;

Under UNFINISHED BUSINESS A. 3. add 2^nd grade with 18 of 20, first two rows are Kindergarten and 1^st grade respectively, Timm Harris was absent, vote- unanimous.

B. Communications – letter from Pat Ireton, information on staff health program

IV. RECOGNITION OF GROUPS AND/OR INDIVIDUALS

A. Winter sports reps – Nancy Lynde, Brian Patno, Katie Buckley

B. CCG – Vita Pisciotta, Marge Wocell

V. ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT

A. John’s Principal’s report – copies available upon request

B. Ron’s Superintendent’s report

1. WSESU 11/19 Special Ed. tour of programs

2. WSESU district meeting 12-8-09 Dummerston

3. Year to date expense line item worksheet presented

4. Letter from Jim Kane with proposed budget

5. Letter from Commissioner of Ed. & Comm. of Finance & Management

VI. FINANCE

A. Approval of warrants

# 1037 in the amount of $ 33,457 – benefits

# 1039 in the amount of $ 15,617.72 – roof loan

# 1040 in the amount of $ 10,388.21 – purchase orders

Arthur moved to approve warrants 1037, 1029, & 1040, Carole 2^nd, vote – unanimous

VIII. UNFINISHED BUSINESS

A. Winter sports – Work towards a solution toward creating programs to include all students at GCS.

B. VSBA self assessment review – went over with Ron

C. Review Student Discipline policy – tabled until full board present

IX. NEW BUSINESS

A. Follow up on 11-11-09 visit – great day for all

B. FY ‘11 budget discussion

C. Financial update

EXECUTIVE SESSION

Ron requested an ES for budget & contractual matters. At 7:32 p.m. Arthur moved to go into ES with Ron & John invited, Carole 2^nd, vote – unanimous. The Board rose from ES at 7:52 with no action taken.

At 7:53 p.m. Arthur move to go into ES inviting John for a personnel matter. Lisa 2^nd, vote – unanimous. The Board rose from ES at 7:57 with no action taken

Carole moved to adjourn at 8:04, Arthur 2^nd, vote – unanimous

TOWN OF GUILFORD SCHOOL BOARD MINUTES

November 2, 2009

Present: Kevin Freitas, Arthur Pettee, Lisa Ford, Timm Harris, Carole Mills, John Gagnon – GCS Principal, Paul Smith – Curriculum & Assessment Coordinator

I. CALL TO ORDER - 6:40 - Kevin Freitas, Board Chair

II. REVIEW AND PRIORITIZE AGENDA BY CHAIRPERSON

A. Put UNFINISHED BUSINESS Winter Sports discussion next

III. UNFINISHED BUSINESS

A. Winter Sports Discussion

1. Parent request for history of Winter Sports – John: parent run for 25 +/- years, 75-85% participation, Mount Snow participation down due to $, variety of offerings throughout the years, no staff participation though they are invited to take part in the events (instead they meet to work of program development, with teams, or individually).

2. Parent questioned the “why” of those who don’t participate? $ or transportation?, survey

3. Board members have raised the question of making Winter Sports mandatory so that all students are incorporated. Utilize para staff that are required for the meetings that generally occur during this time leading activities that won’t cost families $? Would need to expand the program with “enrichment activities” with little to no $ requirement. Who will run them as well as develop the programs? What would the middle school students & staff do if this was mandatory? (These grades showed the lowest % of participation using the initial survey)

1^st grade 12 out of 18 will be participating

2^nd grade 18 out of 24 will be participating

3^rd grade 3 out of 8 will be participating

4^th grade 19 out of 21 will be participating

5^th grade 8 out of 15 will be participating

6^th grade 10 out of 19 will be participating

7^th grade 3 out of 17 will be participating

8^th grade 8 out of 19 will be participating

4. Roller skating brought up – insurance requires we have students wear helmets &

pads.

5. Parent wanted to know how many participated last year – John: 80% including 10 within the in house program.

6. Parent liked the idea of staff being involved- great bonding potential for students with staff outside of typical school activities.

7. Reminder that there are scholarship monies available for those in need & request that anyone can donate to the Winter Sports program to aid in the scholarship fund. John will put into Friday folder newsletter. John mentioned funds are low this year as they have been used in the past.

8. Parental involvement important. How about involving others with talent in certain areas? Bill Koch?

9. Nancy Lynde is willing to contact families that did not respond to the survey to get input on their child’s participation level this year.

B. VSBA Self Assessment – postponed

C. Review of student discipline policy – postponed

IV. CLERK’S REPORT

A. Approval of minutes - Carole moved to accept minutes from 10-19-09 as written, Lisa 2^nd - vote - unanimous

B. Communications

1. Letter from parent regarding Winter Sports

2. Letter from Jim Kane regarding treasurer duties

V. RECOGNITION OF GROUPS AND/OR INDIVIDUALS

A. GCD parents; Alice Revis, Nancy Lynde, Brian Patno, Jody Hausser, Melissa LaBounty, William Ortlieb, Heidi Shepard, Noela Sullivan, Tina Van Iderstein, Heather Cohen, Mike Jarvis, Kathryn Mason, Elise Gunzberg, Adam Mueller

B. GCS staff - Lynn Tobey

VI. ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT

A. Paul Smith with NECAP results 4^th & 8^th grade SCIENCE

1. Vermont has one of the highest standards for educational progress

2. GCS spring 2009 science results

· down from the previous year at GCS level

· bit down at district level

· well above the state level

3. Patterns (compared with district & state results)

2008 2009

4^th grade physical science above average

earth & space bit down above

life bit above above

inquiry above down

2008 2009

8^thgrade physical science slightly above at district, below state

earth & space above even with both

life well above well above

inquiry above slightly above

4. 4^th graders did better than 8^th graders

5. Inquiry subtest consistently weakest area for GCS students

6. Physical & life sciences strongest both grades

7. What to do?

· look at curriculum being implemented

· include more inquiry tasks into units

· look at in services at the district level to address these concerns

VII. FINANCE

A. Approval of warrants

# 1031 in the amount of $ 2,709.21 life insurance

# 1032 in the amount of 100.00 fast check

# 1033 in the amount of 684.71 fast check

# 1034 in the amount of 221.30 fast check

# 1035 in the amount of 6,938.00 purchase orders

$ 7,944.01

Arthur moved to approve the warrants, Lisa 2^nd, vote – unanimous

VIII. COMMITTEE REPORTS

A. Health Action – Walk to school successful!

IX. NEW BUSINESS

A. Responsive Classroom briefing for parents- set date- postpone

B. Letter from Jim Kane- he is recommending accepting Jackie Root’s request to hire Barbara Oles to work on closing out the school districts books for FY ‘09, with a cap of $1000 to be used. Arthur moved to spend no more than $1000 for use of hiring Barbara Oles to assist the school district in closing out FY ‘09 books in a timely fashion, Carole 2^nd, vote – unanimous

C. GSB visit to GCS 11-11-09 9AM we will convene. Will meet with John to find out where we will go.

D. Kevin will speak to John about getting Bev to post in Friday newsletter when GSB meetings are.

Arthur moved to adjourn at 9:08, Carole 2^nd, vote – unanimous

TOWN OF GUILFORD SCHOOL BOARD MINUTES

October 19, 2009

Present: Kevin Freitas, Arthur Pettee, Timm Harris, Carole Mills, John Gagnon–GCS Principal, Jim Kane–WSESU Business Administrator, Ron Stahley–Superintendent (Absent: Lisa Ford)

I. CALL TO ORDER - 5:40 - Kevin Freitas, Board Chair

II. REVIEW AND PRIORITIZE AGENDA BY CHAIRPERSON

Agenda amended to defer Committee reports until the next meeting.

III. CLERK’S REPORT

A. Approval of minutes – Ms. Mills moved to approve as written, Mr. Pettee seconded

B. Communications – Principal’s report of October 19, 2009, 403.B Plan Notifications, and WSESU-prepared GCS draft Expense report were passed out.

IV. ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS

A. WSESU – WSESU Business Administrator Kane explained the structure and function of the draft GCS Expense Line Item report. An updated, consolidated ‘official’ report will be made available for the next Board meeting. Super. Stahley asked for signed copies of the 403.B Plan to be turned in by GCS Board members (all but Ms. Ford turned in the forms).

B. GCS – The Principal’s report was circulated and Principal Gagnon summarized the contents: NECAP testing completed; ALERTNOW system activated and results to be checked by Mr. Gagnon and Ms. Kerber; faculty met with Brian Buettner WSESU Literacy Coach; poor commitment to Winter Sports Program, with only 55% of families responding; H1N1 clinics scheduled for Oct. 30 and Dec. 11, 82 children signed up; a petition for two Vernon students to use Guilford bus to BUHS and BAMS was unanimously approved by Board, at no charge.

V. FINANCE

A. Approval of Warrants – The following nine warrants were moved for approval by Mr. Pettee and seconded by Ms. Mills. They were approved unanimously.

#1026 in the amount of $30,703.39

#1027 in the amount of 636.11

#1028 in the amount of 44.40

#1030 in the amount of 21,603.62

$52,987.52

VI. UNFINISHED BUSINESS

A. Board Self-Assessment Survey – Copies were distributed for discussion at next meeting, to include input from Super. Stahley.

B. Winter Sports Program – With only 55% of families signing up for the Winter Sports Program, numerous concerns were expressed about: whether the Program should be continued, what to occupy those children not participating in the Program, whether the Athletic Committee might take over its management, and whether further family commitments for participation might be sought. Winter Sports and Athletic Committee members and faculty will be invited to a further discussion of the Program at the November 2 Board meeting.

VII. OTHER BUSINESS

Agenda items for the Nov 2 Board meeting may include: discussion of NECAP scores with Paul Smith (if available); Winter Sports Program (scholarships, budget line item and budget planning, mix of activities, etc); Board Self-Assessment; Budget and Expense Report review; time when the “Responsive Classroom” briefing for parents can be presented (not at upcoming Health Potluck); fundraising through GCSA; and review of the Behavior, Conduct, and Discipline policies.

Meeting was adjourned at 6:45 pm.

GUILFORD CENTRAL SCHOOL BOARD GOALS

2009-2010

1. Supporting & Assessing Effectiveness of Responsive Classroom

*climate survey- increase positive responses

use data collection system to look at discipline reports

* John’s observations of teachers use of RC

* teachers evaluation of effectiveness of RC within the classroom

*anecdotal reports from John quarterly to GSB ( can be used at town meeting)

2. Revising Behavior Plan

* from Student Handbook

3. Developing a Five-Year Plan

* what to be done this year

* begin to develop Sept./Oct.

* capital budget

* building & grounds - safe, secure, efficient

* technology ( learning tools, ie. laptops)

* after school programs

* foreign language

* arts program - outreach with FOMAG, VYT

* academic performance

*after school activities

*gifted/ differential learners

*funding

4. Improving School Communications

* within GCS

*within Guilford community- Gazette, Reformer articles

* local & state advocacy (ie., communicate with legislature on education policy)

* DOE

5. Improving School Board Operations

*access to training monies

*survey

*VSBA- communicate with DVD’s & training conferences

6. Conducting Policy Reviews

* continue to do in timely fashion

TOWN OF GUILFORD SCHOOL BOARD MINUTES

Oct. 5, 2009

Present: Kevin Freitas, Arthur Pettee, Lisa Ford, Timm Harris, Carole Mills, John Gagnon – GCS Principal, Jim Kane – WSESU Financial Manager

I. CALL TO ORDER – 6:40 – Kevin Freitas, Board Chair

II. REVIEW AND PRIORITIZE AGENDA BY CHAIRPERSON

Agenda amended to discuss GCS account consolidation as Section V under Administrative

Reports.

III. CLERK’S REPORT

A. Approval of minutes – Carole moved to approve as written, Arthur seconded

B. Communications – Principal’s report of October, 5, 2009 was passed out.

IV. RECOGNITION OF GROUPS AND/OR INDIVIDUALS

Katie Buckley, Athletic Committee and Jackie Root, Town Clerk/Treasurer attended.

V. ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS

A. WSESU – Jim Kane discussed his recommendations on consolidating GCS accounts and in having WSESU review expenditures as a good ‘check and balance’ for the school and as a standard accounting practice for reconciliation of accounts. It was agreed that the Athletic Committee and Gazette resources will continue to be managed outside and separate from the GCS general account. The Eighth Grade ‘field trip’ account, this year managed by 8^th grade parents, should be folded into the GCS general account next year. Those previously separate accounts, such as Sunshine, Classes, Middle School, and Winter Sports, will all be folded into the GCS general account, but will be tracked and shown as individual line items in the Income and Expenditure statements and budgets.

Mr. Kane will assist the GCS Athletic Committee in establishing the GCS Athletic Program as a non-profit, tax exempt 501C3 body.

Mr. Kane will prepare a ‘level-funded’ draft budget for the Board in November. He is doing this for all WSESU Boards. He indicated that funding difficulties are anticipated at the local, State, and Federal levels.

B. GCS – The Principal’s report was circulated and Principal Gagnon summarized the contents: positive NECAP results; ALERTNOW system activation; good turnout for the Sept. 22 school open house; H1N1 vaccination clinic at Vernon Elementary School on Oct 30; Responsive Classroom training on discipline Sept. 30; and the upcoming Internet safety presentation by Lt. Johnson of the State Police at 6:30 pm on Nov 18.

VI. FINANCE

A. Approval of Warrants – The following nine warrants were moved for approval by Arthur and seconded by Carole. They were approved unanimously.

#1012 in the amount of $ 3,037.40

#1014 in the amount of 14,117.39

#1016 in the amount of 2,668.00

#1018 in the amount of 395.00

#1019 in the amount of 108,979.06

#1020 in the amount of 209.71

#1022 in the amount of 607.20

#1023 in the amount of 235.60

#1025 in the amount of 5,828.09

VII. COMMITTEE REPORTS

A. Action Planning – The GCS Action Plan approval was moved by Carole and seconded by Arthur. It was approved unanimously.

B. Health Action – The Health Committee Potluck will be scheduled later by the Health Committee. Two topic matters to be introduced in short presentations at the Potluck will be “Safe Routes to School” and “Responsive Classroom”.

C. Fundraising – The Parents Organization, GCSA, needs to be reorganized, especially for

conducting fundraising. Lisa will take the lead in identifying possibilities for revitalizing the GCSA.

VIII. UNFINISHED BUSINESS

A. Goals – The Board summary of its goals for this term was reviewed, discussed, and

amended. Arthur moved for approval and Lisa seconded. (The summary is attached.) A special meeting to further discuss, solidify, amplify, and define the goals will be held Nov. 30. No voting or motions will be made at this meeting.

B. Policy Reviews – The draft Behavior, Conduct, and Discipline Policies for GCS were

tabled for discussion at a later Board meeting. Chair Kevin requested that Barbara Nowakowski provide the Board with a copy of the legislation requiring the behavior plan.

C. Oct. 19 Board and WSESU meetings – The GCS Board meeting will be shortened to 5:30 – 6:15, as it will be followed by the WSESU District meeting (GCS will provide snacks). The GCS Board meeting agenda will consist solely of warrants review and a Winter Sports program discussion.

IX. OTHER BUSINESS

Meeting adjourned at 8:40 pm.

GUILFORD CENTRAL SCHOOL BOARD GOALS

2009-2010

1. Supporting & Assessing Effectiveness of Responsive Classroom

*climate survey- increase positive responses

use data collection system to look at discipline reports

* John’s observations of teachers use of RC

* teachers evaluation of effectiveness of RC within the classroom

*anecdotal reports from John quarterly to GSB ( can be used at town meeting)

2. Revising Behavior Plan

* from Student Handbook

3. Developing a Five-Year Plan

* what to be done this year

* begin to develop Sept./Oct.

* capital budget

* building & grounds - safe, secure, efficient

* technology ( learning tools, ie.laptops)

* after school programs

* foreign language

* arts program - outreach with FOMAG, VYT

* academic performance

*after school activities

*gifted/ differential learners

*funding

4. Improving School Communications

* within GCS

*within Guilford community- Gazette, Reformer articles

* local & state advocacy (ie., communicate with legislature on education policy)

* DOE

5. Improving School Board Operations

*access to training monies

*survey

*VSBA- communicate with DVD’s & training conferences

6. Conducting Policy Reviews

* continue to do in timely fashion

TOWN OF GUILFORD SCHOOL BOARD MINUTES

September 21, 2009

Present: Kevin Freitas, Arthur Pettee, Lisa Ford, Timm Harris, Carole Mills, John Gagnon – GCS Principal, Ron Stahley – WSESU Superintendent

I. CALL TO ORDER – 6:33 – Kevin Freitas, Board Chair

II. REVIEW AND PRIORITIZE AGENDA BY CHAIRPERSON

A. Move NEW BUSINESS – bus issue to after CLERK’S REPORT

B. Move UNFINISHED BUSINESS – checking accounts to after CLERK’S REPORT

III. CLERK’S REPORT

A. Approval of minutes – Carole motioned to accept as written minutes from 8-31-09, Arthur 2^nd, Timm requested some clarification under V.A.4 Action to be (taken) added, at end add (work) in place of look. Under VII. A.1. add GSB will need total number of hours worked on school treasurer items.

B. Communications – letter from Vernon parent about a bus issue

C. Other

IV. NEW BUSINESS

A. Bus issue, Vernon parent is requesting that his 8^th grade son who attends BAMS, but lives part time in Guilford, be allowed to take the high school bus. Timm moved to permit part time Guilford student to use the Guilford high school bus to and from BAMS, Lisa 2^nd, vote – 4 yes 1 abstention.

B. VSBA dues, Kevin motioned to pay VSBA dues, Arthur 2^nd, vote – unanimous

V. UNFINISHED BUSINESS

A. Checking accounts – after much discussion it was decided to wait till 10-5-09 meeting when Jim Kane will be present before taking action on this matter.

1. Jim e-mailed Kevin to keep Gazette account as is

2. Question of getting monthly account for each group with funds in single account – statements should be issued monthly

3. Fast checks will be available twice weekly to keep a “petty cash” fund of $1000

available at all time

4. GSB will be getting a line itemed report with monthly income and expenses

B. Policy Reviews

o F1 Student Behavior – revised – Arthur moved to adopt as an addendum, Carole 2^nd, vote – unanimous

o F25 Student Attendance – revised – Carole moved to adopt as a replacement, Arthur 2^nd, vote – unanimous

o F28 Limited English Proficiency – revised – Carole moved to adopt as a replacement, Arthur 2^nd, vote – unanimous

C. Information night at GSB meeting – discussion move to 10-5-09 meeting

VI RECOGNITION OF GROUPS AND/OR INDIVIDUALS

A. Bev Kerber – GCS Administrative Assistant

B. Katie Buckley – Guilford Town Office Administrative Assistant

C. Ryan Squires – Athletic Director Town of Guilford

D. Paul Mills

VII. ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT

A. John’s Principal’s Report – copies available upon request

1. VSBA Self Assessment Survey – Ron will get compilation of results to Barb

2. On 9-24 a conversation about H1N1 (swine flu) will occur at the Career Center with

school nurses and principals invited.

3. Mid to late Oct. a vaccine should be ready for any school that has been designated as

a “clinic” for the purposes of administering the flu shots.

4. 10-19-09 WSESU District Board will meet at GCS. The GSB will meet for an

abbreviated session , we will need to provide food.

5. VSBA dues of $1300 provide training opportunities, advisory for school boards, and

helps keeps cost of health insurance down for staff.

6. Ron will check on warrants that didn’t show up for this meeting

Ron requested an EXECUTIVE SESSION for a personnel matter. Arthur moved to enter into ES at 7:30 inviting Ron, Carole 2^nd, vote – unanimous. Out at 7:58 with no action taken

VIII.COMMITTEE REPORTS

A. Building and Grounds – 2 bids for replacing broken kitchen door & frame – Arthur moved to accept bid from GPI Construction for $1638, Carole 2^nd, vote – unanimous

B. Finance – next meeting 10-1-09 at WSESU office

F. Health Action

1. Had 1^st meeting for Safe Routes to School information. We have $10K to use for a

feasibility study. Counting of traffic on Guilford Center Rd. has begun.

2. Bike to School Day – Walk to School Day. Monies available for food and bike safety training

3. Jason Touchette attended conference on an infrastructure grant which would get

monies for up to one mile radius from the school toward making a Safe to School

Route.

4. Abbey Foods representative, Jennifer Dusenbury, sent the October menu for John to peruse. Looking at new format for lunch. Localvore Fridays, looking at pricing to decrease amount of processed foods used

IX. AGENDA ITEMS 10-5-09

A. Action Plan – adoption

B. Look over GCS behavior, conduct & discipline

C. Jim Kane – checking accounts

D. Goals – adoption

E. Next set of policies to look over

F. Potluck & Information Night

Arthur moved to adjourn at 9, Timm 2^nd, vote – unanimous

T0 THE GUILFORD TOWN SCHOOL BOARD

GUILFORD, VERMONT

The September 2, 2009 meeting of the Guilford Town School Board was held at Oak Grove School, Brattleboro.

Present: Lisa Ford, Arthur Pettee, Timm Harris

Also Present: Ron Stahley.

____________________________________________________

At 6:30 p.m. The WSESU Board convened to hear the Memorandum of Agreement between the WSESU Boards and the Windham Southeast Education Association/Vermont NEA. Individual Boards then gathered to meet and consider the Memorandum.

Board Vice-Chair Arthur Pettee called the meeting of the Guilford Town School Board to order at 6:45. Discussion and clarification of the Memorandum was heard.

Timm Harris moved, Lisa Ford seconded to ratify the Memorandum of Agreement between the Guilford Town School Board and the Windham Southeast Education Association/Vermont NEA for July 1, 2009-June 30, 2010. Approved 3-0.

Timm Harris moved, Lisa Ford seconded to adjourn at 7:01. Approved.

Respectfully submitted,

Barb Nowakowski,

on behalf of the Board Clerk

TOWN OF GUILFORD SCHOOL BOARD MINUTES

AUGUST 31, 2009

Present: Kevin Freitas, Arthur Pettee, Lisa Ford, Timm Harris, Carole Mills, John Gagnon – GCS Principal

I. CALL TO ORDER – 6:41 – Kevin Freitas, Board Chair

II. REVIEW AND PRIORITIZE AGENDA BY CHAIRPERSON

A. Move UNFINISHED BUSINESS to after FINANCE

III. CLERK’S REPORT

A. Approval of minutes – Carole moved to accept minutes from 8-13-09 as written, Arthur 2^nd, vote – unanimous

B. Communications

1. Contract from Pieciak & Co. for Kevin to sign

2. Response to Reformer letter by Jim Kane

3. Request from Jim Kane concerning various checking accounts- add to NEW

BUSINESS

C. Other

1. John not able to open attachments sent by clerk

IV. RECOGNITION OF GROUPS AND/OR INDIVIDUALS

A. Parent – Alice Revis

B. School Treasurer – Jackie Root

V. ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT

A. John’s Principal’s report

1. Calm opening day J

2. 162 enrolled

3. Tue & Wed certified staff training in Responsive Classroom – positive remaining

trainings will take place 9/30, 10/30, & 11/6.

4. Actions taken to be as result of initial training; dismissal policy revamped to 3:15

with teachers escorting children to their buses. Teachers are rethinking how

seating within the classroom will look.

5. Handed out copies of School Action Plan

6. New bus ready to be delivered this week

7. Parent Information Night proposed for 9-23-09 – potluck

8. Request for part of an Oct GSB meeting to be reserved for a presentation by staff

on Responsive Classroom

VI. FINANCE

A. Approval of warrant

# 1010 in the amount of $ 31,476.52 – life & health benefits

# 1011 in the amount of $ 11,887.95 – purchase orders

Arthur moved to accept warrants, Carole 2^nd, vote – unanimous

VII. UNFINISHED BUSINESS

A. School district treasurer/finances

1. Jackie Root is requesting an increase in compensation for work to completed in

finishing books for FY 08-09.

a. Carole motioned to send out letter to school district treasurer regarding GSB

expectations before deciding upon compensation, Arthur 2^nd– tabled until next

meeting when copies can be distributed to all GSB members.

B. Goals follow up – see separate document

C. Policy reviews – 2^nd reading

· F1 Student Behavior

· F25 Student Attendance

· F29 Limited English Proficiency

D. Action plan adoption – tabled until next meeting

VIII. NEW BUSINESS

A. Checking accounts – consolidate & keep in WSESU control the following accounts:

Sunshine Club checking, Middle School checking, Gazette checking, Class Funds, Winter Sports Program, Athletic Committee Fund.

1. Timm would like to see 8^th grade account stay as it has been

2. Arthur sees the experience of budgeting valuable for students

3. John spoke of the ability of the district office to do “fast check”, process checks

each Tue, & Thurs, so able to keep a petty cash fund of $100 available to cover

small expenses.

4. All expenditures will go thru John for approval – checks & petty cash requests

Action suspended until board can hear from those representing the interests of the organizations on how this would affect them. All are invited to 9/21/09 GSB meeting for discussion.

B. Responsive Classroom presentation at GSB meeting – 10/19

C. WSESU district board will meet on 9/2/09 to ratify the certified staff agreement.

IX. COMMITTEE REPORTS

A. Action Planning – John handed out copies of Action Plan

F. Health action

1. New head cook

2. Abbey to send copies of menu for to review

Carole motioned to adjourn at 9:38, Arthur 2^nd, vote – unanimous

TOWN OF GUILFORD SCHOOL BOARD MINUTES

AUGUST 13, 2009

Present: Kevin Freitas, Arthur Pettee, Timm Harris, Carole Mills, Ron Stahley – WSESU Superintendent

Absent: Lisa Ford, John Gagnon – GCS Principal

I. CALL TO ORDER – 6:30 – Kevin Freitas, Board Chair

II. REVIEW AND PRIORITIZE AGENDA BY CHAIRPERSON

A. Move NEW BUSINESS to after ADMIN. REPORTS

III. CLERK’S REPORT

A. Approval of minutes – Carole motioned to accept minutes from 7-30-09 as written, Arthur 2^nd, vote – unanimous

IV. RECOGNITION OF GROUPS AND/OR INDIVIDUALS

A. From Emergency Management District – Herb & Madeline Meyer

B. Parent – Alice Revis

V. ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT

A. Ron’s Superintendent’s report

1. From Jim Kane – clarification on district treasurer duties via response to Reformer letter to the editor.

2. Report on 9 GCS students who participated in a middle school leadership retreat. Will follow thru with action steps for within the school & district in the fall.

3. Flyer from Public Assets Institute on program to be held 8-27-09 at Brooks

Memorial Library on “Vermont School Funding: What’s Ahead?”

VI. NEW BUSINESS

A. Emergency Management District request to ask 8^th grade GCS students if they would be interested in being involved with the EMD as part of their volunteer requirements. Kevin recommended Herb speak with John. Board supports the EMD’s initative.

B. Goals follow up – wait till full board

C. Listening Project – Timm reported that they provide perspective on needs of children at or perceived to be at risk. Ron – The LP will be addressing the entire WSESU staff at the opening district meeting on 8-28 at the BUHS auditorium. Board members encouraged to attend. A report is due at the end of the summer.

D. Policy Reviews;

· F1 Student Behavior – revised – 1^st Reading

· F25 Student attendance – revised – 1^st Reading

· F29 Limited English proficiency – revised – 1^st Reading

VII. FINANCE

A. Approval of warrants

#1006 in the amount of $ 34,027.75

#1007 in the amount of $ 4,399.13

Arthur moved to approve warrant, Timm 2^nd, vote – unanimous

VIII.UNFINISHED BUSINESS

A. District school treasurer duties – roll over for full board

EXECUTIVE SESSION – Ron requests 2, Kevin 1

A. Arthur moved to enter into ES at 7:13 inviting Ron for personnel matter, out 7:23. Action taken: Carole motion to direct Principal to decide on use of personal days based on specific circumstances & negotiate agreement between GSB & bus drivers.

B. Arthur moved to enter ES at 7:27 inviting Ron for contractual matter, out 7:43.

WSESU board meeting on Wed., 9-2-09 will meet to ratify a one year settlement with teachers. Action – Timm recommends that the GSB accept Ron’s advice on

compensation for Principal, K 2^nd – vote – unanimous

C. Arthur moved to enter into ES at 7:50 on legal matter, Ron invited in. Out 7:55. No action taken

IX. AGENDA ITEMS

A. School treasurer

B. Goals

C. Policy Reviews

TOWN OF GUILFORD SCHOOL BOARD MINUTES

JULY 30, 2009

Present: Arthur Pettee, Lisa Ford, Carole Mills, John Gagnon – GCS Principal

Absent: Kevin Freitas, Timm Harris

I. CALL TO ORDER: 6:44 Arthur Pettee, Board Vice-Chair

II. REVIEW AND PRIORITIZE AGENDA BY CHAIRPERSON

A. Put NEW BUSINESS after RECOGNITION OF GROUPS

III. CLERK’S REPORT

A. Approval of minutes – Carole motioned to accept minutes from June 15 as written, Lisa 2^nd, Marge questioned whether the board investigated how WSESU would handle treasurer duties once they were to be taken over from the Guilford town treasurer. She noted that in the past many complications arose from this. Lisa stated that the reasons that the board decided to have the district take over the duties were the same. Vote – unanimous

Carole motioned to accept minutes from June 23 as written, Lisa 2^nd, vote –

unanimous

Carole motioned to accept minutes from July 13 as written, Arthur 2^nd, vote – unanimous

IV. RECOGNITION OF GROUPS AND/OR INDIVIDUALS

A. GCS bus drivers Rita Lashway & Cindy Symons

B. Reformer reporter Chris Garofolo

C. CCG – Marge Wocell, Vita Pisciotta

V. NEW BUSINESS

A. Bus Drivers Contract

Carole moved to enter into ES inviting John and bus drivers concerning contract at 7:04. Out at 7:27. Action to be taken: John will communicate with the classified staff negotiation committee to draft language to be presented to the bus drivers for an addendum to their contract.

VI. ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT

A. John’s Principals Report

1. Matt & Troy have 90% of building cleaned

2. Presented 1% request from Martina Dancing & Lynn Toby. Arthur moved to accept 1% request, Lisa 2^nd, vote – unanimous

VII. FINANCE

A. Approval of warrants

# 1001 in the amount of $ 2,715.00

# 1003 in the amount of $ 41,324.16

$ 44,039.16

Arthur moved to accept warrants 1001 & 1003, Carole 2^nd, vote – unanimous

VIII. COMMITTEE REPORTS

A. Action planning – tabled till full board present

B. Building and Grounds:

1. John informed the board that all the construction & painting work to the front of the school has been completed.

C. Diversity & Equity:

1. August WSESU gathering of children grades 6-12 to build multicultural appreciation

D. Finance: next meeting 8-25-09

E. Transportation

1. Bus ordered

IX. UNFINISHED BUSINESS

A. Marge requested information of how much GSC will be paying WSESU to take over treasurer duties. John recommended she look at the town report to see how much Guilford pays toward WSESU.

V. NEW BUSINESS (cont.)

B. Composting

1. Franklin & Son put in a bid for $625/mos to collect rubbish, composting, and recycling.

2. Triple T’s bid for the same services at $675/mos has been taken off the table

3. Rubbish collection only is $325/mos

4. John reminded us that the 6^th grade will be initiating a school-wide recycling program this fall. He suggested we look into a smaller residential composting system working with one or two classrooms to start & expand on this.

5. Lisa recommended networking with local farms.

C. Policy Review

· C3 “Public Participation at Board meeting – review only

D. Goals Follow Up – tabled until full board present

E. August GSB Schedule – Arthur will send out e-mail to set date

Carole motioned to adjourn at 8:24, Arthur 2^nd, vote – unanimous

TOWN OF GUILFORD SCHOOL BOARD MINUTES

July 13, 2009

Present: Kevin Freitas, Lisa Ford, Arthur Pettee, John Gagnon, Chris Garofolo

I. Call to Order – 6:40 p.m. by Kevin Freitas, board chair in the GCS Library

II After considering the two bids for annual audit of the GCS District books, Arthur moved with Lisa’s 2^nd to accept the bid from Jos. Piecak and Co. for 3 years at a cost of $9,000.00 $8,000.00 $8475.00. All in favor.

III Arthur moved with Lisa’s 2^nd to approve warrants:

#22A for $66,858.57 payroll

#22B for $216.59 payroll

#22C for $184,504.50 WSESU Special Ed.

#22D $34,806.89 benefits. All in favor.

IV Lisa moved with Art’s 2^nd to adjourn at 7:00 p.m. All in favor.

This draft respectfully submitted, Arthur Pettee, acting clerk

TOWN OF GUILFORD SCHOOL BOARD MINUTES

JUNE 23, 2009

Present: Kevin Freitas, Timm Harris, Arthur Pettee (This special meeting was held during a recess of a WSESU Board meeting at the Dummerston School.)

I. Board Chair, Kevin Freitas called the meeting to order at 5:58 p.m.

II. After a brief discussion of the information provided on Federal Grants and disbursement of same for the entire Supervisory Union by WSESU staff the following action was taken.

A. Timm Harris moved with Kevin Freitas 2^nd, the Guilford Town School District approve and authorize the FY2010 Individuals With Disabilities Education Improvement Act (hereafter referred to as IDEA) 3-21 year old budget and Local Education Agency Plan (hereafter referred to as LEAP) in the amount of $735,210.00. All in Favor.

B. Timm Harris moved with Arthur Pettee 2^nd, the Guilford Town School District approve and authorize the FY2010 IDEA 3-21 year old budget for the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (hereafter referred to as the ARRA) in the amount of $465,359.00. All in Favor.

C. Kevin Freitas moved with Timm Harris 2^nd, the Guilford Town School District approve and authorize the FY2010 IDEA Preschool budget and LEAP in the amount of $18,488.00. All in Favor.

D. Timm Harris moved with Kevin Freitas 2^nd, the Guilford Town School District approve and authorize the FY2010 IDEA Preschool budget for the ARRA in the amount of $15,026.00. All in Favor.

III. The Board recessed at 6:13 to return to the full WSESU Board meeting. With all individual districts having approved the previous motions, they were then approved by the WSESU Board.

IV. The Guilford Board reconvened at 6:18, Arthur Pettee moved with Timm Harris 2^nd the

Board adjourn. All in Favor.

Respectfully submitted, Arthur Pettee, Acting Clerk

(These minutes should be considered a draft until approved by the Board)

TOWN OF GUILFORD SCHOOL BOARD MINUTES

JUNE 15, 2009

Present: Kevin Freitas, Arthur Pettee, Lisa Ford, Timm Harris, Carole Mills, John Gagnon – GCS Principal, Ron Stahley – WSESU Superintendent

I. CALL TO ORDER – 6:32 – Kevin Freitas, Board Chair

II. REVIEW AND PRIORITIZE AGENDA BY CHAIRPERSON

A. By Timm’s request – addition to NEW BUSINESS discussion about program opportunities available for gifted students

B. Move NEW BUSINESS to 7 PM when The Abbey Group reps present

C. Ron requests an ES by 7:45.

III. CLERK’S REPORT

A. Approval of Minutes – Carole motioned to accept minutes from 6-6-09 as written,

Arthur 2^nd, Timm noted that in section VII, D., 2. question was not answered in

minutes. Added that Ron will be looking into the matter. Vote – unanimous as amended

B. Communications

1. Letter from Tony Guarino

IV. RECOGNITION OF GROUPS AND/OR INDIVIDUALS

A. Parent – Alice Revis

B. The Abbey Group reps: Dave Underwood & Jennifer Dusenbury

V. ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT

A. Ron’s superintendent’s report

1. Handed out copies of WSESU annual report

B. John’s principal’s report – copies available upon request

1. Handed out copies of GCS Action Plan

Lisa moved to fund all 1% applications presented by John, Arthur 2^nd, vote – unanimous

VI. NEW BUSINESS

A. Nutrition program contract renewal/ The Abbey Group

1. 40 children participate in breakfast (non prior)

2. Nov. served all vegetarian menu – low participation

3. Timm inquired about gaining info. regarding nutritional information for the

meals served. For all menu items served, this info. can be found in the Abbey Group data base, over 800 recipes.

4. Audit of food program in Nov. got good marks

5. Lisa questioned the quality of all the food being served. Are there too many

choices? Dave replied that number of participants has increased; therefore, the quality must be good. John noted that last year we had 80% student participation with many adults as well & this year it is at 67& with few if any adults.

6. It was noted by many the lack of creativity with meals this year, some concern about only white flour being used, & the amount of food being thrown out. Jennifer stated that only whole wheat flour it to be used in baking items.

7. Alice suggested: picking out the14 menu items that the students consistently eat & rotate the menu with these items. No veggies being served on trays, increasing amount of protein served, questioned the training for staff, Dave noted that part of Jennifer’s responsibilities are to train kitchen staff. Vary the desserts.

8. Contract for 2009-10 would be $9000, lunch prices to remain at current level

Timm motioned to go into Executive Session at 7:43, at John’s request inviting, Ron, Jennifer, Dave, & John, Carole 2^nd, vote – unanimous. Out of ES at 7:55. Arthur

moved that the GSB extend contract with The Abbey Group for 2009-2010, Timm 2^nd, vote – unanimous.

B. Treasurer’s Salary/Duties

1. Lisa questioned the timeline that the stipend would be based upon for the work done. Discussion about what duties are being taken over by the WSESU 7-1-09. Ron stated that most of the work will go over to Central Office. GSB will request an itemized bill from the treasurer for work done from 7-1-09 thru 10-31-09. Clerk to compose letter stating this for treasurer.

Arthur moved to enter ES at 8:45 inviting John & Ron, Timm 2^nd, vote –

unanimous. Out at 8:54.

C. Meeting Minutes – 5 days availability – clerk will do his/her best to comply

D. Bus Bids – no trade in’s offered for all bids.

1. Used 2008 with 15K mi. for $69K with 14K for seat belt installation.

Alice questioned getting extended warranty – John thought 3 years or less was what it comes with.

2. New International $77K with all required specs + $1800 for seat belt installation.

3. Thomas $80K with all required specs + $1440 for seat belt installation. Timm

proposed accepting bid from J&B for the International bus, Arthur 2^nd, vote – unanimous.

4. John will contact company with used bus to see if they would be willing to sell our

4^th bus after receiving new one in fall.

F. Principal’s Evaluation

Arthur moved to enter ES at Ron’s request at 7:56 inviting Ron. Out at 8:43.

1. John will be asked to bring last school action plan.

G. School/District Gifted Student Program Opportunities

1. John will provide overview at 6-22-09 Goal Setting meeting.

VII. FINANCE

A. Approval of Warrants

# 21c in the amount of $ 62,271.01 payroll

# 21b in the amount of $ 33,732.29 May benefits

# 21a in the amount of $ 9,763.67 June assessment

# 21 in the amount of $ 17,069.52 purchase orders

Arthur motioned to approve warrants 21-21c, Carole 2^nd, vote – unanimous

VIII. COMMITTEE REPORTS

A. Action Planning – meeting in July

B. Building and Grounds

1. Roof fixed

2. Painting contractors & repairs to front of school set up

3. Heating pumps – John will look into replacement of

C. Transportation

1. John found out that the Dept. of Environmental Conservation has monies available for purchasing new bus for decreasing diesel emission if the bus was not scheduled to be replaced. Will pay up to $40K toward new bus. Deadline 8-30-09 for application. Funds available through 8-10. John will go forward with the application for replacing our 2002 bus early.

IX. NEW BUSINESS

A. Composting – next meeting

X. GOAL SETTING AGENDA

A. Board self evaluation

B. Evaluate last year’s goals

C. Establish goals for next year

D. School/district gifted programs available

get from Barb – copies of enabling legislation for Vt. roles & responsibilities of school board members

XI. AGENDA ITEMS

A. Composting

Carole moved to adjourn at 9:50, Lisa 2^nd, vote – unanimous

TOWN OF GUILFORD SCHOOL BOARD MINUTES

JUNE 1, 2009

Present: Kevin Freitas, Arthur Pettee, Lisa Ford, Timm Harris, Carole Mills, John Gagnon – GCS Principal, Ron Stahley – WSESU Superintendent

I. CALL TO ORDER – 6:38 – Kevin Freitas, Board Chair

II. REVIEW AND PRIORITIZE AGENDA BY CHAIRPERSON