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FY07 Board Meeting Minutes
FY06 Board Meeting Minutes
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                                                                                                                                  July 2006

The Talbot County Board of Education met in a Regular Session on July 11, 2006 at 6:00 p. m. with the following members present:  Mrs. Sally 
Ferguson (D-1), Mr. Albert Smith (5),  Mrs. Linda Mitchell (D-2), Mrs. Marilyn Griffin (D-4) and Mrs. Martha Roland (D-3).

1. Meeting called to order by Chairperson, Mrs. Sally Ferguson.

2.  Moment of silence requested by Chairperson, Mrs. Sally Ferguson.

3.  The Pledge of Allegiance led by Superintendent Robert W. Patrick.

4.  On the motion of Mrs. Roland, seconded by Mr. Smith, voted unanimously to approve the July 11, 2006 meeting agenda.

5.  On the motion of  Mrs. Griffin, seconded by Mrs. Roland, voted unanimously to approve the June 13, 2006 regular meeting minutes.

6.  Design/School Improvement Team Update:  Mr. Bonaparte briefed the board on the progress of the summer remediation program.  CRCT, GHSGT and 
Writing test are scheduled to be administered.  Student attendance has been good for each level of remediation.  Principal Tymes, Assistant Principal 
Bonaparte and Betty Brass met Monday, July 10, to discuss school improvement strategies. Increased emphasis is ongoing in this area.  Two teacher 
vacancies remain. Continued effort is  ongoing to staff these positions.  
Mrs. Gladys Doctrie, the reading first coach, is scheduled to conduct a program learning session on Saturday, July 15.  Those staff members identified 
to attend will be notified.  New teacher orientation is scheduled for Monday and Tuesday, July 24-25 and pre-planning orientation for the full staff 
is 
scheduled for July 26-28. The Parent-Student Handbook for school year 2006-2007 was approved and will be sent to the publisher.  Changes made 
were 
consistent with attendance component of NCLB.   Increased emphasis was given to keeping students in school unless a level III or level IV violation 
was documented and referred for corrective action.  Improvements to the physical facility were noted and the board was thanked for their support.

7.  Family Connection Partnership (FCP) Update:  Mrs. Dorothy Bass, Director, informed the board about the success students are having in 
the DHR Summer Youth Initiative Program.   She briefed the board on trips taken to Flint River Technical College. The Business and Industry component 
of the program included visits to Quadgraphic, Duni, Upson County Medical Center, Southern Mills and Yamaha. Visits were made to Columbus State University, Columbus 
Technical College, University of Georgia, Albany State University, Macon State College and  a trip is planned for Friday, July 14, to
colleges in the Atlanta University System. Some of the students attended a Morehouse School of Medicine-sponsored Youth Leadership at Oxford 
University.
 Mrs. Helen Williams of the County Extension Agency has provided literacy and health training on a continuous basis throughout the 
program.   
Individuals from other agencies and community/social organizations have also participated as a part of the mentoring component:  Probate Judge Slade 
Johnson, Superintendent Robert W. Patrick,  Mr. James Banks from DFCS, a representative from New Horizons, the Alpha Phi Alpha
Fraternity, the Kappa Alpha Phi Fraternity, the Zeta Phi Beta Sorority and the Delta Sigma Theta Sorority.  In addition, the group will travel to 
Marion County on Saturday, July 22, to participate in the Family Connection State Youth Initiative and on Saturday, August 5, 
they will travel to Fort Benning to observe the Annual Soldier Show.  The last two outings will take place after the July 14th
concluding date of the program.

8.  School/Educational-Relevant Website Update:   
   1) www.ed.gov, 
  2) 
www.gadoe.org 
or 
www.gadoe.k12.ga.us
  3)
reportcards@gppf.org
  4)
www.gaschoolcouncil.org,
  5)
www.gsba.com
  6)  www.gssanet.org
  7) www.gael.org
  8) www.gacharters.org
  9) www.georgiafamilyconnection.org
 10) www.georgiapta.org
 11)
http://www.gsbaepolicy.org/
 12)  www.gahsc.org
 13) www.gapsc.org
 14) www.georgialearns.com
 15) www.ghsa.net
 16) www.georgiaencyclopedia.com
 17) www.dch.state.ga.us
 18) www.opb.state.ga.us
 19) www.djj.state.ga.us
 20) www.pageinc.org
 21) www.gae.org
 22) www.evenstart.org
 23) www.pta.org
 24) www.famlit.org
 25) www.fcp.org
 26) www.communityplanning.org
 27) www.census.gov
 28) www.georgiapie.org
 29) www.talbotccsb97
 30) www.talbot.k12.ga.us
 31)  www.nasdtec.org
 32) www.gaosa.org 
 33) www.peachcare.org
 34) www.ready.org
 35)  gema.state.ga.us
 36)  gpee.org
 37)  vluonline.org
 38)  pbs.org.curriculum.audit@pdkintl.org
 39)  ed.gov/21stcclc
 40)  afterschool.gov
 41)  coveringkids.us
 42)  gacte.org
 43)  dtae.org
 44)  gvtc.org
 45)  nea.org/neatoday
 46)  georgiatrend.com
 47)  georgiastandards.org
 48)  ganet.org/gbi 
 49) http://www.openrecords.org/records/sexual_offenders/georgia/

 50) GeorgiaEducation.org
 51)  georgiapta.org
 52)  aasa.org
 53)  edschools.org/reports-leaders, gafcp.org
 54)  naeyc.org/about/positions.asp
 55)  futureofchildren.org
 56)  csos.jhu.edu/p2000/sixtypes.htm, http://nces.ed.gov/ecls
 57)  srcd.org/documents/publications/SPR/spr17-1.pdf
NOTE-1:  Make a call and Report/Stop the Violence in School:  1-877-SAY-STOP
NOTE-2: Item 49 above is the Sexual offenders Link.  Updated twice daily.
9. On the motion of Mrs. Griffin, seconded by Mrs. Roland, voted unanimously to approve the food service financial report (The time line for the $625.25 invoice is no later than June 30, 2006). 10. Ms. Susan Schlader announced that the Summer Food Service program was a success. The average daily attendance was 194 students. Mrs. Lizzie K. Denson and her team were very supportive and are to be thanked for their efforts. 11. On the motion of Mrs. Roland, seconded by Mr. Smith, voted unanimously to approve the school system financial report. 12. On the motion of Mrs. Griffin, seconded by Mr. Smith, voted unanimously to approve the following recommended RFPs for painting of field house and elementary gymnasium. 13. On the motion of Mrs. Mitchell, seconded by Mrs. Roland, voted unanimously to approve the recommended RFP for a canopy for the mobile classroom. 14. On the motion of Mr. Smith, seconded by Mrs. Mitchell, voted unanimously to approve the recommended Parent-Student Handbook revision and the RFP for it to be reproduced. 15. On the motion of Mrs. Mitchell, seconded by Mrs. Roland, voted unanimously to approve the recommended honorarium for the pre-planning motivation speaker. 16. On the motion of Mrs. Roland, seconded by Mrs. Griffin, voted unanimously to approve the request for payment of purchase orders, bills, etc. 17. On the motion of Mrs. Griffin, seconded by Mr. Smith, voted unanimously to approve the following facility request: Date Organization/Club Facility 08/8-18/06 Louis Copeland cafeteria/gymnasium NOTE-1: The following safety/security procedures for ensuring appropriate crowd control and acceptable entrance/exit routes in the parking areas when hosting school activities in the gymnasium: a. Ensure the authorized building (gymnasium) State Fire Code capacity limitation is observed and enforced. b. Ensure law enforcement officials enforce posted policies about no standing in the entrance/exit or walkways, and that spectators remain in the bleachers and behind the rails unless going to and from restrooms and the concession stand. c. Ensure the assigned parking details keep an unobstructed entrance/exit sufficient to allow the free-flow of traffic to and from the parking area at all times. Double parking will not be allowed, and the student athletic field on the hill in back of the elementary school will be used for overflow parking. Vehicles will be towed at the owner's expense. d. Ensure assigned school staff/law enforcement officials effectively monitor gymnasium entrance/exit doors to prevent unauthorized entrance/exit, and to maintain an accurate count to make sure the building capacity limitation is observed and enforced. e. Ensure signs are posted in the most visible areas to make people aware of policies to be observed in the gymnasium/facility. f. Ensure policy violators are escorted from the premises. g. Ensure the GHSA officials discontinue the game anytime it appears to be getting out of control and may potentially excite the crowd toward unacceptable behavior. NOTE-2: Personnel with authorized access to the Central Elementary/High School facility will comply with the following: a. Safe guard their security access code when issued prohibited from sharing their security access code with anyone for any reason at any time). b. Coordinate with the school system security monitor, Sandy Mitchell, in advance of entering the Central Elementary/High School facility at all times regardless of having an access code and authority to enter the facility. The system is supervisory-monitored and controlled and will be activated when procedures are violated. Local law enforcement authorities are notified whenever there is a violation. c. Ensure the facility is properly closed upon leaving. The system will also activate when doors are not properly closed. d. It is considered trespassing whenever entrance is made into the building without advance coordination with the responsible grade level principal and the school system security monitor. Staff members with keys, including those who have been assigned personal access codes, are required to follow this procedure (including principals and central office administrators) Violators will be documented. e. It is prohibited to hang items from any classroom ceiling (signs, banners, ornaments, etc). Doing so will automatically set the alarm system off since it is already enabled and in the ready mode. Principal will monitor this safety concern closely. 18. On the motion of Mr. Smith, seconded by Mrs. Roland, voted unanimously to approve the following trip requests: Date Organization/Club Destination 07/19/06 Food Service Americus 07/22/06 DHR/FCP State Youth Initiative Marion Co 08/05/06 DHR Summer Youth Program Fort Benning Note 1: Pep bus authorized to accompany each basketball and football game on a reimbursable basis. Note 2: A transportation fee will be charged to organizations not sponsored by the Talbot County Board of Education. The charge for using a school bus for non-system related activities is $3.50 per mile, including liability (old policy in effect pending board approval). This fee is to defray gas and maintenance costs. In addition, the driver must be a school employee (permanent or substitute bus driver). The driver's fee will be the responsibility of the requesting organization, and is calculated by the driver's hourly rate times the number of hours required to complete the trip when non-certified school employee drivers are used. Non-certified school bus drivers will be paid time and a half whenever they take a trip which requires them to work in excess of 40 hours per week, regular time plus driving time. Plus, all overtime work requests must be approved in advance by the superintendent. Note 3: Only approved trips will be considered for Alternative Education Program (AEP) vehicle assets. Coordination with the AEP Director is required in advance when AEP vehicle assets are desired. Note 2 applies with regular school vehicle assets. Note 4: AEP vehicle assets will not be used to take regular students to and from home on regular bus routes. However, when approved in advance, such vehicle assets may be used for 1)alternative education activities, 2) supplemental academic programs, 3) extra -curricular activities, 4) Family Connection Partnership (FCP) activities, 5) and approved community activities. Note 5: Dual employees are prohibited from working in excess of 40 hours in any given week without prior written approval from the superintendent. Furthermore, any time an employee works in excess of 40 hours, he/she will be paid time and a half overtime based on their hourly rate in accordance with the Fair Labor Standards Act. Plus, overtime requests are required to be in writing and be received and approved in advance by the superintendent. 19. Continued emphasis was again placed on compliance with OCGA 60-5-1-06 (Employee Work Day), OCGA 20-2-210 (Annual Performance Evaluations) Reading First and Georgia's assurances, personal liability for on campus damages and fair, firm and consistent enforcement of policy. 20. Safety. Be safety conscious and keep safety first. Zero tolerance will be enforced on inappropriate behavior, including the loitering, visitors to school and visitors policy (OGGA 20-2-1180, TCSS Policy KM and KM-R) will be emphasized throughout the school year. Safety and security requires everyone's support and watchfulness at all times. School leadership is fully aware of the need for ensuring the school setting is safe, secure and conducive to learning. Increased administrator visibility is required in the cafeteria at lunch time and in the hallways at the change of classes is reemphasized. Classroom and bus safety procedures will be briefed with students and staff during the first weeks of school. In addition, Doug Fromke from Affinity Workman's Compensation Trust will be one of the pre-planning orientation presenters. 21. On the motion of Mr. Smith, seconded by Mrs. Griffin, voted unanimously to go into executive session to discuss student and personnel issues and land purchase. 22. On the motion of Mrs. Mitchell, seconded by Mr. Smith, voted unanimously to return to regular session. 23. On the motion of Mrs. Mitchell, seconded by Mrs. Roland, voted unanimously to employ the following bus drivers pending certification: 1) Kemberly Glenn, 2) Ron Antley and 3) Gloria Herbert. 23a. On the motion of Mrs. Roland, seconded by Mrs. Mitchell, voted unanimously to employ the following individuals as: a) paraprofessionals: 1) Mary A. Lee, 2) Vanessa Searcy and 3) Pamela J. Searcy, b) student assistants: 1) Shirley Epps, 2) DeJuane Y. Kimbrough. 23b. On the motion of Mrs. Griffin, seconded by Mrs. Roland, voted unanimously to employ the following individuals as substitute custodians: 1) Kimberly L. Homes, 2) Anthony D. Neal, 3) Jerome Mays, 4) Aaron J. Lumpkin, 5) Randolph Jenkins, 6) Willie MaHone, 7) Eric Marshall, 8) Betty J. Parham, 9) Ina M. Mizell, 10) Marvin Miller, 11) Anthony Lamar, 12) Rena C. Mitchell, 13) Daphine D. Raines. 23c. On the motion of Mrs. Roland, seconded by Mrs. Mitchell, voted unanimously to approve the resignation request of Frankie James. 23d. The superintendent's evaluation will be discussed at the next meeting. 24. On the motion of Mrs. Mitchell, seconded by Mrs. Roland, voted unanimously to approve the recommended Wellness Policy. 25. On the motion of Mrs. Griffin, seconded by Mrs. Roland, voted unanimously to schedule quarterly work sessions to be announced by the board. 26. On the motion of Mrs. Griffin, seconded by Mrs. Roland, voted unanimously to schedule a retreat and town hall district meetings as requested by board members for thier respective districts. 27. On the motion of Mr. Smith, seconded by Mrs. Griffin, voted unanimously for the school system to participate in the Low Wealth School Consortium. 28. On the motion of Mrs. Roland, seconded by Mrs. Smith, voted 4-1 for the superintendent to process a request for the board members monthly per diem to be increased. Mrs. Linda Mitchell voted no. 29. It was board consensus for the superintendent to check into the process for getting a Boys and Girls Club established in the county and to provide ongoing updates on the status of the Human Resource Officers grant. 30. On the motion of Mrs. Mitchell, seconded by Mrs. Roland, voted unanimously to go into executive session to discuss land acquisition and personnel issues. 31. On the motion of Mrs. Griffin, seconded by Mrs. Mitchell, voted unanimously to return to regular session. 32. Land acquisition status for the proposed elementary site is unchanged. 33. The concerns were raised about the potential requirement for facility requesters to have insurance coverage. This concern will be legally staffed. 34. On the motion of Mrs. Mitchell, seconded by Mrs. Roland, voted unanimously to adjourn. The next regular meeting is scheduled for August 8,2006 at 6:00 p.m. in the central office located at 405 West Tyler Street. The third and last budget hearing is schedule for Monday, July 17 at 5:00 p.m. A called meeting is scheduled at 6:00 p.m. for the purpose of setting the millage and approving the HACCP for the food service program. The public is invited to the budget hearing and the called meeting.. Robert W. Patrick, Superintendent Talbot County School System

The Talbot County Board of Education met in a Called Session on July 17, 2006 at 6:00 p.m. with the following board members present:  Mrs. Sally  Ferguson (D-1), Mr. Albert Smith (D-5), Mrs. Linda Mitchell (D-2), Mrs. Marilyn Griffin (D-4) and Mrs. Martha Roland (D-3).

1.  Meeting called to order by Mrs. Sally Ferguson, Chairperson.

2.  Moment of silence requested by Mrs. Sally Ferguson, Chairperson.

3.  The Pledge of Allegiance led by Superintendent Robert W. Patrick.

4.  On the motion of Mrs. Griffin, seconded by Mr. Smith, voted unanimously to approve the July 17, 2006 called meeting agenda.

5.  On the motion of Mr. Smith, seconded by Mrs. Roland, voted unanimously to approve the recommended 2006-2007 school years budget in the amount of $8,697,660.00  and to set and levy 13.08 mills at $222,986.00 per mil to return $2,916,656.88 for Maintenance and Operations of  Schools and .699 mills at $226,179.00 per mill to return $158,099.12 for General Obligation School Bonds.  The total of the two being $3,147,672.42 which includes $72,916.42  for 2.5% collection fee.

6.  On the motion of Mrs. Griffin, seconded by Mr. Smith, voted unanimously to approve the resignation request of Mr. Willie Williams and to change Ms. Nikita Carter's duty title from data entry clerk to paraprofessional.

7.  On the motion of Mrs. Roland, seconded by Mr. Smith, voted unanimously to approve the recommended food service hazard analysis and critical control point (HACCP) plan.

8.  On the motion of Mrs. Griffin, seconded by Mrs. Roland, voted unanimously to adjourn.  The next regular meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, August 8, in the board of education conference room, located at 205 W. Tyler Street.  The public is invited to attend.
 
Robert W. Patrick, Superintendent
Talbot County School System
 

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August
The Talbot County Board of Education met in a Regular Session on August 8, 2006 at 6:00 p. m. with the following members present:  Mrs. Sally Ferguson
(D-1), Mr. Albert Smith (5),  Mrs. Linda Mitchell (D-2), Mrs. Marilyn Griffin (D-4) and Mrs. Martha Roland (D-3).

1. Meeting called to order by Chairperson, Mr. Albert Smith..

2.  Moment of silence requested by Chairperson, Mr. Albert Smith.

3.  The Pledge of Allegiance led by Superintendent Robert W. Patrick.

4.  On the motion of Mr. Smith, seconded by Mrs. Roland, voted unanimously to approve the August 8, 2006 meeting agenda.

5.  On the motion of  Mrs. Griffin, seconded by Mrs. Mitchell, voted unanimously to approve the July 11, 2006 regular meeting minutes and the
July 17, 2006 called meeting minutes.

6. Student Recognition:  The following students were recognized for their participation in a medical apprenticeship camp this summer:  Brittney Smith,
Brandon Smith, Andrea Mahone, Marco Harvey, Erica Jones, Britney Horton, NaEisha Owens and Arsenio Turner.   AHEC, one of the CEHS's PIE partners,
was in charge of coordinating this excellent learning experience.  Sponsors included:  St. Francis Hospital, the Medical Center, the John B. Amos Cancer
Center and the Georgia Rehabilitation Center at Warm Springs.

7.  Principal/Design/School Improvement Team/School Council Update:  Mr. Tymes informed the board on the successful school opening.  He stated that
the summer programs (remediation, food service and the DHR Youth Summer Initiative) were successful, too. Included was the announcement of nine new
teachers and four paraprofessionals.  The following individuals were identified as school council members:  Edward Tymes, Kenneth Bonaparte,
Nathaniel Lippitt, Terri Jenkins, Otis Mathis and Patricia Carracker.  The Wellness Committee is composed of Edward Tymes, Kenneth Bonaparte, Susan
Schlader, Helen Williams, Mattie Chaney, Thelma Blount, Gloria Ramsey and Dorothy Bass.  It was also briefed that the high school science lab
equipment had arrived and was in place.  Principal Tymes expressed excitiement about school staff and the good start to what he expects to be a
very successful school year.  "Our major goal is to improve test scores and make AYP," he concluded.

8.  Family Connection Partnership (FCP) Update:  It was announced that the Leadership Talbot County training is ongoing and is held as scheduled on the
second Thursday of each month at 6:00 p.m. in the FCP Building.  The graduation ceremony for Leadership Talbot is still scheduled to be
announced.   Also, the next FCP regular meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, August 16 at 11:30 a.m.  The public is invited to attend.

9.  Even Start Update:  Alice Johnson, Director, announced that the program is up and running and is  doing fine;  expected objectives are being met,
including an unexpected enrollment increase. Fourteen families are currently enrolled and several new families are being
contacted.  The program was funded as projected.

10.  Alternative/Charter School Update:  It was announced that the alternative/charter school was inplementing the recently approved student
handbook policy changes.   Increased emphasis is being placed on motivating students to stay in school.

11.  School/Educational-Relevant Website Update:   ed.gov; 
gadoe.org/doe.k12.ga.us;  reportcards@gppf.org; gaschoolcouncil.org;
gsba.com; gssanet.org;  gael.org; gacharters.org; georgiapta.org;
gsba.com/policy manuals/links/talbot; gahsc.org;  gapsc.org;
georgialearns.com; ghsa.net; georgiaencyclopedia.com; 
dch.state.ga.us;opb.state.ga.us;  djj.state.ga.us;  pageinc.org;
gae.org;  evenstart.org; pta.org;  famlit.org; fcp.org;
communityplanning.org;  census.gov;  georgiapie.org;  talbotccsb97;
talbot.k12.ga.us;  nasdtec.org;  gaosa.org;  peachcare.org;
ready.org;  ready.gov; gema.state.ga.us;  gpee.org;  vluonline.org; pbs.org;
curriculum.audit@pdkintl.org;  ed.gov/21stcclc; fterschool.gov; 
coveringkids.us; gacte.org,  dtae.org;  gvtc.org; nea.org/neatoday;
goergiatrend.com; georgiastandards.org;
ganet.org/gbi/;  ie2@org; GeorgiaEducation.org,georgiastandards.org;
  georgiapta.org; aasa.org; edschools.org/reports-leaders.htm;
neasp.org; nassp.org; charterauthorizers.org;  gafcp.org; 
naeyc.org/about/positions.asp;futureofchildren.org/;csos.jhu.edu/p2000/sixtypes.htm,http://nces.ed.gov/ecls/;srcd.org/documents/publications/SPR/spr17-1.pdf;
jstart.org, 60) fns.usda.gov/tn/healthy/wellnesspolicy.html;
afterschoolallstarts.org;  education.gsu.edu/cdc,georgia.ja.org;
audit.state.ga.us;  health.state.ga.us/epi/cdiee/obesityasp,
health.state.ga.us/programs/nutrition/publications.asp; threeriversahec.org;
newhorizonscsb.rog;
partnersineducationcolumbusga.com; GAcollege411.org; starfall.com; 
schoolfolks.com; schoolmatters.com;  nces.edu.gov/;  gaosa.org;
gahealthyfamilies.com; Lexile.com; quantiles.com; cycc.state.ga.us;
refdesk.com,hoover.org; heritage.org; cato.org, brookings.org;brookings.edu;
rand.org.

NOTE-1:  Make a call and Report/Stop the Violence in School:  1-877-SAY-STOP.

NOTE-2:  Item 17-47 above is the Sexual Offenders Link.  Updated twice daily.

12.  On the motion of Mrs. Roland, seconded by Mrs. Griffin, voted unanimously to approve the food service financial report.

13.  School Nutrition Program Update:   Ms. Susan Schlader, Director, informed the board about the TID Managers In Training class.  Six students
are attending the class, four from the local school system and two from the Taylor County School  System.  The training is
inclusive and covers all aspects of the school nutrition program managers position.

14.  Partners-In-Education (PIE) Update:  Ms. Susan Schlader, committee chairperson, announced that plans are being made to sponsor a grandparents
day on Wednesday, September 6.  More information will be forthcoming regarding the event.  In addition, she
announced that last year was very successful for PIE.  Several student activities were sponsored and they were all very well
attended.

15.  On the motion of Mr. Smith, seconded by Mrs. Griffin, voted unanimously to approve the school system financial report.

16.  On the motion of Mrs. Griffin, seconded by Mrs. Roland, voted unanimously to approve the recommended RFP(s) for:  a) stools and storage
locks for the science lab,  b) painting and c) school system insurance errors and omissions renewal application and d) Markel student insurance
application request.

17.  On the motion of Mrs. Roland, seconded by Mrs. Griffin, voted unanimously to approve the recommended surplus property sale.

18.  On the motion of Mrs. Roland, seconded by Mrs. Griffin, voted unanimously to approve the request for payment of purchase orders, bills,
etc.

19.  On the motion of Mrs. Roland, seconded by Mrs. Mitchell, voted unanimously to approve the following recommended fundraiser/project request:

    Date                          Organization/Club
09/02 & 09/06                 CEHS Surplus Property Sale

NOTE:  Sale location will be at the football field in back of the
alternative/charter school at 489 W. Tyler Street.  The sale will last from
9:00 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. both days.  Purhcased items must
be moved from school property upon purchase.  There will be no exceptions. 
All transactions willl be in cash.  Purchased items not removed as indicated
will be disposed of by putting them in the
dumpster.  Purchases will be cash and carry, as is with no returns.

20.  On the motion of Mrs. Mitchell, seconded by Mrs. Roland, voted
unanimously to approve the following facility request:

    Date                          Organization/Club
10/12/06                              FCP                               Cafeteria

NOTE-1:  The following safety/security procedures for ensuring appropriate crowd control and acceptable entrance/exit routes in the parking areas when
hosting school activities in the gymnasium:

     a.  Ensure the authorized building (gymnasium) State Fire Code capacity limitation is observed and enforced.

     b.  Ensure law enforcement officials enforce posted policies about no standing in the entrance/exit or walkways, and that spectators remain in the
bleachers and behind the rails unless going to and from restrooms and the concession stand.

      c.  Ensure the assigned parking details keep an unobstructed entrance/exit sufficient to allow the free-flow of traffic to and from the
parking area at all times.  Double parking will not be allowed, and the student athletic field on the hill in back of the elementary school will be
used for overflow parking.  Vehicles will be towed at the owner's expense.

      d.  Ensure assigned school staff/law enforcement officials effectively monitor gymnasium entrance/exit doors to prevent unauthorized entrance/exit,
and to maintain an accurate count to make sure the building capacity limitation is observed and enforced.

      e.  Ensure signs are posted in the most visible areas to make people aware of policies to be observed in the gymnasium/facility.

      f.  Ensure policy violators are escorted from the premises.

      g.  Ensure the GHSA officials discontinue the game anytime it appears to be getting out of control and may potentially excite the crowd toward
unacceptable behavior.

NOTE-2:  Personnel with authorized access to the Central Elementary/High School facility will comply with the following:

      a.  Safe guard their security access code when issued prohibited from sharing their security access code with anyone for any reason at any time).

      b.   Coordinate with the school system security monitor, Sandy Mitchell, in advance of entering the Central Elementary/High School facility
at all times regardless of having an access code and authority to enter the facility.  The system is supervisory-monitored and
controlled and will be activated when procedures are violated.  Local law enforcement authorities are notified whenever there is a violation.

     c.   Ensure  the facility is properly closed upon leaving.  The system will also activate when doors are not properly closed.

     d.  It is considered trespassing whenever entrance is made into the building without advance coordination with the responsible grade level
principal and the school system security monitor. Staff members with keys, including those who have been assigned personal
access codes, are required to follow this procedure (including principals and central office administrators), too.
Violators will be documented.

      e.  It is prohibited to hang items from any classroom ceiling (signs, banners, ornaments, etc).  Doing so will automatically set the alarm system
off since it is already enabled and in the ready mode.  Principal will monitor this safety concern closely.

21.  On the motion of Mr. Smith, seconded by Mrs. Roland, voted unanimously to approve the following trip requests:

    Date              Organization/Club                Destination
08/00/06            DHR/FCP Group                  TBA
08/29/06            CEHS                                Columbus

Note 1: Pep bus authorized to accompany each basketball and football game on a reimbursable basis.

Note 2:  A transportation fee will be charged to organizations not sponsored by the Talbot County Board of Education.  The charge for using a school bus
for non-system related activities is $3.50 per mile, including liability (old policy in effect pending board approval). 
This fee is to defray gas and maintenance costs.  In addition, the driver must be a school employee (permanent or substitute bus driver).  The
driver's fee will be the responsibility of the requesting organization, and is calculated by the driver's hourly rate times the number of hours required
to complete the trip when non-certified school employee drivers are used. Non-certified school bus drivers will be paid time and a half whenever they
take a trip which requires them to work in excess of 40 hours per week, regular time plus driving time.   Plus, all overtime work requests must be
approved in advance by the superintendent.
Note 3: Only approved trips will be considered for Alternative Education Program (AEP) vehicle assets.  Coordination with the AEP Director is
required in advance when AEP vehicle assets are desired.  Note 2 applies with regular school vehicle assets.
Note 4: AEP vehicle assets will not be used to take regular students to and from home on regular bus routes.  However, when approved in advance, such
vehicle assets may be used for 1) alternative education activities, 2) supplemental academic programs, 3)
extra -curricular activities, 4) Family Connection Partnership (FCP) activities, 5) and approved community activities.
Note 5:   Dual employees are prohibited from working in excess of 40 hours in any given week without prior written approval from the superintendent.
Furthermore, any time an employee works in excess of 40 hours, he/she will be paid time and a half overtime based on their hourly rate in accordance
with the Fair Labor Standards Act.  Plus, overtime requests are required to be in writing and be received and approved in advance by the superintendent.

22.  Continued emphasis was again placed on compliance with OCGA 60-5-1-06 (Employee Work Day), OCGA 20-2-210 (Annual Performance Evaluations) Reading
First and Georgia's assurances, personal liability for on campus damages and fair, firm and consistent enforcement of policy.

23.  Safety.  Be safety conscious and keep safety first.  Zero tolerance will be enforced on inappropriate behavior, including the loitering,
visitors to school and visitors policy (OGGA 20-2-1180, TCSS Policy KM and KM-R) will be emphasized throughout the school year. 
Safety and security requires everyone's support and watchfulness at all times.  School leadership is fully aware of the
need for ensuring the school setting is safe, secure and conducive to learning.  Increased  administrator visibility is required in the cafeteria
at lunch time and in the hallways at the change of classes is reemphasized.

24.  On the motion of Mrs. Roland, seconded by Mr. Smith, voted unanimously to go into executive session to discuss real estate and personnel issues.

25.  On the motion of Mrs. Griffin, seconded by Mrs. Roland, voted unanimously to return to regular session.

26.  On the motion of Mrs. Roland, seconded by Mrs. Mitchell, voted unanimously to employ the following individuals:  a) teachers: 1) Cecil
Lester( pending advanced certification program enrollment and completion),  b) paraprofessional: Nekishia Smith, c) long-term substitute teacher: 
Cheryl Little and  d)  long-term substitute paraprofessional: Burnita Burrell.

27.  On the motion of Mrs. Mitchell, seconded by Mrs. Roland, voted unanimously to approve the recommended extended day status for Leticia Cook
and Michael Graybill.

28.  On the motion of Mrs. Roland, seconded by Mrs. Griffin, voted unanimously to approve the recommended modified duty reporting time for
Regina Leonard during the period of August 14-18, 2006.

29.  It was announced that Connie Bucker is assigned as the graduation completion specialist.

30.  Efforts to purchase a site for the proposed school are ongoing.    It was announced that several sites are being considered.

31.  On the motion of Mrs. Roland, seconded by Mr. Smith, voted unanimously to approve the Georgia Teacher Evaluation Program for official observations.

32.  The requested status on text books will be provided at the next regular meeting.

33.  Reimbursement request must be documented and submitted within 30 days of the travel or expenditure.  Approval must be obtained at each level.

34.  On the motion of Mrs. Griffin,  seconded by Mrs. Roland, voted unanimously to adjourn.  The next regular meeting is scheduled for
September12, 2006 at 6:00 p.m. in the central office located at 405 West Tyler Street.  The public and school board members are encouraged to attend.

35.  The meeting was reconvened.  On the motion of Mrs. Roland, seconded by Mrs. Griffin, voted unanimously to approved the litigation recommendation as
coordinated and discussed.

36.  On the motion of Mrs. Griffin, seconded by Mrs. Roland, voted unanimously to adjourn.
Robert W. Patrick
Superintendnet

Top of the Page
September
The Talbot County Board of Education met in a Regular Session on September 12, 2006 at 6:00 p. m. with the following members present:  Mrs. Sally Ferguson (D-1), Mr. Albert Smith (5),  Mrs. Linda Mitchell (D-2), Mrs. Marilyn Griffin (D-4) and Mrs. Martha Roland (D-3).

1. Meeting called to order by Chairperson, Mr. Albert Smith..

2.  Moment of silence requested by Chairperson, Mr. Albert Smith.

3.  The Pledge of Allegiance led by Superintendent Robert W. Patrick.

4.  On the motion of Mrs. Roland, seconded by Mrs. Mitchell, voted unanimously to approve the September 12, 2006 meeting agenda.

5.  On the motion of  Mrs. Roland, seconded by Mrs. Mitchell, voted unanimously to approve the August 8, 2006 regular meeting minutes and the August 21, 2006 called meeting minutes.

6. Curriculum and Instruction Update:  Assistant Superintendent Tannette  Saunders informed the board that the school system had been selected to participate in the Focused Monitoring component of Georgia's Continuous
Improvement Monitoring Process (GCIMP) due to its need to increase the mathematics performance of students with disabilities on statewide tests when given appropriate accommodations.  She further stated that the team will visit the school system November 27-30 to meet with parents, observe classrooms, interview teachers and administrators.

7.  Reading First Update:  Mrs. Gladys Doctrie, education support specialist (ISS), briefed the board on the current status of the Reading First Program.
   Handouts with grafts and charts were provided to give the board a concrete feel for the progress students are making in the program.  Based on the data presented, students are making desired progress.  Students needing improvement have been identified and are being provided additional help.

8.  Georgia's Choice Update:  Mrs. Barbara Dawson, ISS, briefed the board on program being implemented in the mathematics area.  She expressed excitement about the hand-on and interactive involvement of students and teacher alike.
  Investigative, navigator series and ram up are used to introduce students to basic and advance math skills as well as ensure they are prepared to master skills required need to excel on the GHSGT and other academic examinations.

7.  Principal/Design/School Improvement Team/School Council Update:  Mr.Tymes informed the board on the successful school opening.  It, the successful school opening,  included a well-attended PTA meeting, introducing students and staff to the revised parent-students handbook, increased monitoring of instructional delivery, facility enhancement and
increased priority on safety and policy enforcement, ensuring that students and visitors have approved passes when in the halls unaccompanied.   In addition, Principal Tymes told the board that an academic data room is being
established.  It will be used to display and make student test outcome data more readily visible and to allow for easy and accurate monitoring of test outcomes.  Accurate and timely monitoring of test outcomes will enable students to be provided needed support in identified areas sooner.

8.  Family Connection Partnership (FCP) Update:  It was announced that the Leadership Talbot County training is ongoing and is held as scheduled on the second Thursday of each month at 6:00 p.m. in the FCP Building.  Leadership Talbot is still working on the Carolyn Hugley Park project and expects to have it completed before Thanksgiving.    Also, the next FCP regular meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, September 20 at 11:30 a.m.  The public is invited to attend.

9.  Even Start Update:  It was announced that the program is up and running and is doing fine;  expected objectives are being met, including an unexpected enrollment increase.  Four new families are currently enrolled and several others are being contacted.   Additional enrollees are expected.

10.  Alternative/Charter School Update:  It was announced that the alternative/charter school was participating in the 21st Century After School Program, from 3:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.   Increased emphasis is being placed on motivating students to stay in school.  The after school program is another initiative in support of that effort.

11.  County Extension Service/4-H Program:  Mrs.  Helen Williams, Director, informed the board about several plans for the current school year.  Trips, expanded collaboration and student achievement projects are but a few of  them.  First, 4-H will be attending fair exhibits in Harris, Muscogee and Perry Counties as a means of additional cultural experiences to students. 
Second, there is increased collaboration between and among the County Extension Services and other county agencies in support of the students population.  There is also efforts, which are ongoing, to help students with their assignments for Project Achievement.  Many of the students are doing a great job.  However, we still would like to get more community support.  To that end, we are considering some type of  exhibit to expose the community to some of the students projects and work.  It will be a great experience to community and students.

12.  School/Educational-Relevant Website Update:
  1)
www.ed.gov,
  2) 
www.gadoe.org 
or 
www.gadoe.k12.ga.us
  3)
reportcards@gppf.org
  4)
www.gaschoolcouncil.org,
  5)
www.gsba.com
  6)  www.gssanet.org
  7) www.gael.org
  8) www.gacharters.org
  9) www.georgiafamilyconnection.org
 10) www.georgiapta.org
 11)
http://www.gsbaepolicy.org/
 12)  www.gahsc.org
 13) www.gapsc.org
 14) www.georgialearns.com
 15) www.ghsa.net
 16) www.georgiaencyclopedia.com
 17) www.dch.state.ga.us
 18) www.opb.state.ga.us
 19) www.djj.state.ga.us
 20) www.pageinc.org
 21) www.gae.org
 22) www.evenstart.org
 23) www.pta.org
 24) www.famlit.org
 25) www.fcp.org
 26) www.communityplanning.org
 27) www.census.gov
 28) www.georgiapie.org
 29) www.talbotccsb97
 30) www.talbot.k12.ga.us
 31)  www.nasdtec.org
 32) www.gaosa.org 
 33) www.peachcare.org
 34) www.ready.org
 35)  gema.state.ga.us
 36)  gpee.org
 37)  vluonline.org
 38)  pbs.org.curriculum.audit@pdkintl.org
 39)  ed.gov/21stcclc
 40)  afterschool.gov
 41)  coveringkids.us
 42)  gacte.org
 43)  dtae.org
 44)  gvtc.org
 45)  nea.org/neatoday
 46)  georgiatrend.com
 47)  georgiastandards.org
 48)  ganet.org/gbi 
 49) http://www.openrecords.org/records/sexual_offenders/georgia/

 50) GeorgiaEducation.org
 51)  georgiapta.org
 52)  aasa.org
 53)  edschools.org/reports-leaders, gafcp.org
 54)  naeyc.org/about/positions.asp
 55)  futureofchildren.org
 56)  csos.jhu.edu/p2000/sixtypes.htm, http://nces.ed.gov/ecls
 57)  srcd.org/documents/publications/SPR/spr17-1.pdf
NOTE-1:  Make a call and Report/Stop the Violence in School:  1-877-SAY-STOP
NOTE-2: Item 49 above is the Sexual offenders Link.  Updated twice daily.

13.  On the motion of Mrs. Griffin, seconded by Mrs. Roland, voted unanimously to approve the food service financial report.

14.  Partners-In-Education (PIE) Update:  Mr. Tymes announced that the grandparents day on Wednesday, September 6 was very successful.  He also stated that the PIE Pick Off Day was a hugh success.  PIE continues to support school activities across the curriculum and we have many more programs planned for the remainder of the year.  Your support and
cooperation are welcomed.

15.  On the motion of Mrs. Griffin, seconded by Mr. Mitchell, voted unanimously to approve the school system financial report.

16.  On the motion of Mr. Smith, seconded by Mrs. Mitchell, voted unanimously to approve the recommended RFP(s) for:  a) computer upgrade (data drops, power poles, etc), b) tech workstation,  c) CCI (physical fitness) room and d) concrete slab platform.

18.  On the motion of Mr. Smith, seconded by Mrs. Mitchell, voted unanimously to approve the request for payment of purchase orders, bills, etc.

19.  On the motion of Mrs. Griffin, seconded by Mr. Smith, voted unanimously to approve the following recommended fundraiser/project request:
Date Club/Organization Event/Facility
10/28/06 Alumni Association Cafeteria
10/28/06 Eastern Star Lodge Cafeteria

20.  On the motion of Mrs. Mitchell, seconded by Mrs. Roland, voted unanimously to approve the following facility request:

Date Club/Organization Facility
10/12/06 FCP Cafeteria
10/28/06 Alumni Association Cafeteria
10/28/06 Eastern Star Lodge Cafeteria

NOTE-1:  The following safety/security procedures for ensuring appropriate crowd control and acceptable entrance/exit routes in the parking areas when hosting school activities in the gymnasium:
     a.  Ensure the authorized building (gymnasium) State Fire Code capacity limitation is observed and enforced.
     b.  Ensure law enforcement officials enforce posted policies about no standing in the entrance/exit or walkways, and that spectators remain in the bleachers and behind the rails unless going to and from restrooms and the concession stand.
      c.  Ensure the assigned parking details keep an unobstructed entrance/exit sufficient to allow the free-flow of traffic to and from the
parking area at all times.  Double parking will not be allowed, and the student athletic field on the hill in back of the elementary school will be used for overflow parking.  Vehicles will be towed at the owner's expense.
      d.  Ensure assigned school staff/law enforcement officials effectively monitor gymnasium entrance/exit doors to prevent unauthorized entrance/exit, and to maintain an accurate count to make sure the building capacity limitation is observed and enforced.
      e.  Ensure signs are posted in the most visible areas to make people aware of policies to be observed in the gymnasium/facility.
      f.  Ensure policy violators are escorted from the premises.
      g.  Ensure the GHSA officials discontinue the game anytime it appears to be getting out of control and may potentially excite the crowd toward unacceptable behavior.
NOTE-2:  Personnel with authorized access to the Central Elementary/High School facility will comply with the following:
      a.  Safe guard their security access code when issued prohibited from sharing their security access code with anyone for any reason at any time).
      b.   Coordinate with the school system security monitor, Sandy Mitchell, in advance of entering the Central Elementary/High School facility at all times regardless of having an access code and authority to enter the facility.  The system is supervisory-monitored and
controlled and will be activated when procedures are violated.  Local law enforcement authorities are notified whenever there is a violation.
     c.   Ensure  the facility is properly closed upon leaving.  The system will also activate when doors are not properly closed.
     d.  It is considered trespassing whenever entrance is made into the building without advance coordination with the responsible grade level
principal and the school system security monitor. Staff members with keys, including those who have been assigned personal
access codes, are required to follow this procedure (including principals and central office administrators), too. Violators will be documented.
      e.  It is prohibited to hang items from any classroom ceiling (signs, banners, ornaments, etc).  Doing so will automatically set the alarm system off since it is already enabled and in the ready mode.  Principal will monitor this safety concern closely.

21.  On the motion of Mr. Smith, seconded by Mrs. Roland, voted unanimously to approve the following trip requests:

Date Club/Organization Destination

09/15/06 

GSWU Americus
09/29/06 JROTC Fort Benning
10/07/06 4-H Club Perry
10/18/06 FVSU Talent Search College Park
10/21/06 4-H Club Atlanta

Note 1: Pep bus authorized to accompany each basketball and football game on a reimbursable basis.
Note 2:  A transportation fee will be charged to organizations not sponsored by the Talbot County Board of Education.  The charge for using a school bus for non-system related activities is $3.50 per mile, including liability (old policy in effect pending board approval). 
This fee is to defray gas and maintenance costs.  In addition, the driver must be a school employee (permanent or substitute bus driver).  The driver's fee will be the responsibility of the requesting organization, and  is calculated by the driver's hourly rate times the number of hours required to complete the trip when non-certified school employee drivers are used.  
Non-certified school bus drivers will be paid time and a half whenever they take a trip which requires them to work in excess of 40 hours per week, regular time plus driving time.   Plus, all overtime work requests must be approved in advance by the superintendent.
Note 3: Only approved trips will be considered for Alternative Education Program (AEP) vehicle assets.  Coordination with the AEP Director is  required in advance when AEP vehicle assets are desired.  Note 2 applies with regular school vehicle assets.
Note 4: AEP vehicle assets will not be used to take regular students to and  from home on regular bus routes.  However, when approved in advance, such  vehicle assets may be used for 1)alternative education activities, 2) supplemental academic programs, 3) extra -curricular activities, 4) Family Connection Partnership (FCP) activities, 5) and approved community activities.
Note 5:   Dual employees are prohibited from working in excess of 40 hours in any given week without prior written approval from the superintendent.  Furthermore, any time an employee works in excess of 40 hours, he/she will  be paid time and a half overtime based on their hourly rate in accordance with the Fair Labor Standards Act.  Plus, overtime requests are required to
be in writing and be received and approved in advance by the superintendent.

22.  Continued emphasis was again placed on compliance with OCGA 60-5-1-06 (Employee Work Day), OCGA 20-2-210 (Annual Performance Evaluations) Reading First and Georgia's assurances, personal liability for on campus damages and
fair, firm and consistent enforcement of policy.

23.  Safety.  Be safety conscious and keep safety first.  Zero tolerance will be enforced on inappropriate behavior, including the loitering, visitors to school and visitors policy (OGGA 20-2-1180, TCSS Policy KM and KM-R) will be emphasized throughout the school year. 
Safety and security requires everyone's support and watchfulness at all times.  School leadership is fully aware of the
need for ensuring the school setting is safe, secure and conducive to learning.
 Increased  administrator visibility is required in the cafeteria at lunch time and in the hallways at the change of classes is reemphasized.

22.  Continued emphasis was again placed on compliance with OCGA 60-5-1-06 (Employee Work Day), OCGA 20-2-210 (Annual Performance Evaluations) Reading First and Georgia's assurances, personal liability for on campus damages and
fair, firm and consistent enforcement of policy.

23.  Safety.  Be safety conscious and keep safety first.  Zero tolerance will be enforced on inappropriate behavior, including the loitering, visitors to school and visitors policy (OGGA 20-2-1180, TCSS Policy KM and KM-R) will be emphasized throughout the school year. 
Safety and security requires everyone's support and watchfulness at all times.  School leadership is fully aware of the
need for ensuring the school setting is safe, secure and conducive to learning.  Increased  administrator visibility is required in the cafeteria at lunch time and in the hallways at the change of classes is reemphasized.  Similar supervisory emphasis in expected for the 21st Century After School Program.

24.  Mrs. Dorothy Bass informed the board about the 21st Century After School Program, the Family Connection Partnership Annual Banquet which is scheduled for October 12 at 7:00 p.m. in the school cafeteria ( GADOE Superintendent Kathy Cox is the keynote speaker) and the annual county literacy day which is scheduled for September 21 from 10:00 a.m. to noon at the Talbotton Public Library.   She also told the board that FCP is collaborating with the school system and other county agencies in applying  for a continuation of the DHR Summer Youth Initiative which was a huge success this summer.  "All of these programs are just great. I am so excited for the community and the students.   I wish they had bee around when I was going to school," she concluded.

25.  On the motion of Mrs. Griffin, seconded by Mrs. Roland, voted unanimously to approve the following individuals to serve as tribunal members for school year 2006-2007:  Brenda Martin, Cynthia Epps, Calvin Epps, Otis Mathis, Gertrude Huff, LeRoy Fountain, Nathaniel Lippitt, Gladys Doctrie, Barbara Dawson, Leticia Cook, Clifton White, Regina Leonard, Jane Towns, MaRhonda Towns, Catherine Walker, Connie Gibson, Gloria Ramsey, Connie Buckner, Karen Freeman, Tony Lamar, Robert Jones and Kenneth Bonaparte.

26.  On the motion of Mrs. Griffin, seconded by Mrs. Roland, voted unanimously to approve FRTC's request for the use of the computer lab conduct to offer an after school  technology class.

27.  On the motion of Mr. Smith, seconded by Mrs. Roland, voted unanimously to approve the school system's acceptable use policy (AUP) for 2006-2007.

28.  On the motion of Mr. Smith, seconded by Mrs. Roland, voted unanimously to approve the recommended Emergency Preparedness/Safety Play for school year 2006-2007.

29.  On the motion of Mrs. Griffin, seconded by Mr. Smith, voted unanimously to approve the recommended appointees to the following committees:  education, budget, personnel, safety, transportation and facility.

30.  On the motion of Mrs. Roland, seconded by Mrs. Mitchell, voted unanimously to employ the following individuals as substitute teachers:  a)Lois Stanley and b) Tina Baldwin.

31.  On the motion of Mrs. Roland, seconded by Mrs. Mitchell, voted unanimously to approve the following recommended statement which was omitted from Level IV- Disciplinary options on page 60 of the 2006-2007  Parent-Student Handbook:  "All offenses in Level IV are serious and may result in a 1-day suspension and tribunal."

32.  On the motion of Mrs. Griffin, seconded by Mr. Smith, voted unanimously to send representatives to the 2007 NSBA Conference.

33.  On the motion of Mrs. Griffin, seconded by Mr. Smith, voted unanimously to register the two incoming board members for newcomers orientation (offered in conjunction with the GSBA Winter Conference November 29 through December 2, 2006 in Atlanta.

34.  On the motion of Mrs Griffin, seconded by Mr. Smith, voted unanimously to approve the recommendation for Mrs. Griffin and Mrs. Roland to attend the GSBA Liaison Training Session in Dublin on October 23.

32.  On the motion of Mrs. Griffin, seconded by Mrs. Roland, voted unanimously to go into executive session to discuss the personnel, the superintendent's evaluation.

33.  On the motion of Mrs. Griffin, seconded by Mrs. Roland, voted unanimously to return to regular session.

34.  The discussion on the superintendent's evaluation is ongoing.

35.  On the motion of Mrs. Roland,  seconded by Mrs. Griffin, voted unanimously to adjourn.  The next regular meeting is scheduled for October 10, 2006 at 6:00 p.m. in the central office located at 405 West Tyler Street.  The education committee will meet in the central office on October 3, 2006 at 5:30 p.m.  Mrs. Griffin has announced an education committee  update meeting for District 4 on October 21 at 10:30.   The public and school board members are encouraged to attend.

Robert W. Patrick
Superintendent

Top of the Page

October
 

The Talbot County Board of Education met in a Regular Session on October 10, 2006 at 6:00 p. m. with the following members present:  Mrs. Sally Ferguson (D-1), Mr. Albert Smith (5),  Mrs. Linda Mitchell (D-2), Mrs. Marilyn Griffin (D-4) and Mrs. Martha Roland (D-3).

1. Meeting called to order by Chairperson, Mrs. Sally Ferguson.

2.  Moment of silence requested by Chairperson, Mrs. Sally Ferguson.

3.  The Pledge of Allegiance led by Superintendent Robert W. Patrick.

4.  On the motion of Mrs. Mitchell, seconded by Mrs. Roland, voted unanimously to approve the October 10, 2006 meeting agenda.

5.  On the motion of  Mrs. Griffin, seconded by Mrs. Mitchell, voted unanimously to approve the September 12, 2006 regular meeting minutes and the September 26 called meeting minutes.

                                            SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT

GADOE Superintendent Kathy Cox will speak at the Family Connection Partnership Annual Banquet on October 24, 2006 at 7:00 p.m. in the school cafeteria.  The public is invited to attend.

6. Curriculum and Instruction Update:  Assistant Superintendent Tannette Saunders informed the board that the school system had been selected to participate in the Focused Monitoring component of Georgia's Continuous Improvement Monitoring Process (GCIMP) due to its need to increase the mathematics performance of students with disabilities on statewide tests when given appropriate accommodations.  She further stated that the team will visit the school system November 27-30 to meet with parents, observe classrooms and to interview teachers and administrators.

7.  Reading First Update:  Mrs. Gladys Doctrie, education support specialist (ESS), briefed the board on the current status of the Reading First Program.
   She called the briefing a CELEBRATION.  Its purpose was threefold:  a) to inform, b) to solicit support and c) to invite
board members and parents to come along with them on the requested celebration trip.  Seventy two students met or exceeded reading 25 Books for the first nine weeks and were selected for the trip in recognition for their outstanding accomplishments.   Parents are invited to join their children on this outing; however, they must use private transportation.  The bus will only transport students and accompanying staff members.

8.  Principal/Design/School Improvement Team/School Council Update:  Mr. Tymes informed the board of the fourth year of needs improvement.  As a result, the staff was in the process of meeting to develop a school-wide improvement and restructuring plan.    Meetings are being held in collaboration with GADOE and RESA personnel.  A template will be made from critical data discussed at these meeting and is expected to be finished before Christmas.  The design team meetings are still being held  weekly.  The focus of the meetings are on student achievement and the delivery of instructions and classroom management.  Students needing
additional support have been identified and are being scheduled for support as needed.  School will be out for intersession from Thursday, October 19 through Friday, October 27.  However, students identified as needing additional assistance will be offered the chance for remediation during the week of October 23 thru 27.  Parents are encouraged to support their children in this effort by having them come to school during this time.  
Increased monitoring of instructional delivery, facility enhancement,  increased priority on safety and policy enforcement, ensuring that students and visitors have approved passes when in the halls unaccompanied and administering discipline in a fair, firm and consistent manner are ongoing. 
  In addition, Principal Tymes told the board that the Hawks won their first game last weekend and that the middle school Hawks have a 3-2 record.  Your support is appreciated and needed.

9.  Family Connection Partnership (FCP) Update:  Dorothy Bass, Director, announced that the members from the UGA Fanning Institute would be making a presentation to the community on Thursday, October 26.  The meeting will be held in the school cafeteria and is open to the public.  Everyone is encouraged to come out and participate in the event.  The presentation
promises to provide an update and current status of our community as it relates to schools, jobs, health,  housing and workforce skills.  It also promises to offer suggestions as to how we, as a community, can increase our potential in each of these areas as a community.  It was also announced that the Leadership Talbot County training is ongoing and is held as scheduled on
the second Thursday of each month at 6:00 p.m. in the FCP Building. 
Leadership Talbot is still working on the Carolyn Hugley Park project and expects to have it completed before Thanksgiving.   It was further briefed that the DHR Youth Initiative has been submitted, approved and the contract  should be received on October12.  The program has the potential to expand beyond the experiences offered to selected students this summer.  Students will again be selected on the basis of financial eligibility, academic standings, behavior and attendance.  On Saturday, October 14, the SAT will
be administered at Central.  Remind our students to get a good nights rest and to be on time for the start of the examination.   Finally, she stated  that the next FCP regular meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, October 18 at 11:30 a.m.  The public is invited to attend.

10.  The 21St Century After School Program.  Mrs. Cynthia Epps and Mrs. Brenda Walker, Site Managers, briefed the board on the operation of the program.  The briefing was positive and uplifting.    It was announced that more than 100 participants have been enrolled in the program the past two weeks and that it is still open to students who are interested and are signed up by their parents or guardians.  The focus of the program is on rituals and routines as a means to improve academic achievement and behavior
as well as for acquiring acceptable social skills and traits.  In addition to helping to enrich the lives of our students, the programs focuses on tapping and pulling out the best potential in our students, and we are beginning to see some fantastic results.  Flora M. Lindsey, Program Director, explained that the 21St Century Program is entwined with the school's remediation, recovery and enrichment programs.  "They are not separate.  We are all working together," she concluded.

11.  School/Educational-Relevant Website Update:
  1)
www.ed.gov,
  2) 
www.gadoe.org 
or 
www.gadoe.k12.ga.us
  3)
reportcards@gppf.org
  4)
www.gaschoolcouncil.org,
  5)
www.gsba.com
  6)  www.gssanet.org
  7) www.gael.org
  8) www.gacharters.org
  9) www.georgiafamilyconnection.org
 10) www.georgiapta.org
 11)
http://www.gsbaepolicy.org/
 12)  www.gahsc.org
 13) www.gapsc.org
 14) www.georgialearns.com
 15) www.ghsa.net
 16) www.georgiaencyclopedia.com
 17) www.dch.state.ga.us
 18) www.opb.state.ga.us
 19) www.djj.state.ga.us
 20) www.pageinc.org
 21) www.gae.org
 22) www.evenstart.org
 23) www.pta.org
 24) www.famlit.org
 25) www.fcp.org
 26) www.communityplanning.org
 27) www.census.gov
 28) www.georgiapie.org
 29) www.talbotccsb97
 30) www.talbot.k12.ga.us
 31)  www.nasdtec.org
 32) www.gaosa.org 
 33) www.peachcare.org
 34) www.ready.org
 35)  gema.state.ga.us
 36)  gpee.org
 37)  vluonline.org
 38)  pbs.org.curriculum.audit@pdkintl.org
 39)  ed.gov/21stcclc
 40)  afterschool.gov
 41)  coveringkids.us
 42)  gacte.org
 43)  dtae.org
 44)  gvtc.org
 45)  nea.org/neatoday
 46)  georgiatrend.com
 47)  georgiastandards.org
 48)  ganet.org/gbi 
 49) http://www.openrecords.org/records/sexual_offenders/georgia/

 50) GeorgiaEducation.org
 51)  georgiapta.org
 52)  aasa.org
 53)  edschools.org/reports-leaders, gafcp.org
 54)  naeyc.org/about/positions.asp
 55)  futureofchildren.org
 56)  csos.jhu.edu/p2000/sixtypes.htm, http://nces.ed.gov/ecls
 57)  srcd.org/documents/publications/SPR/spr17-1.pdf
NOTE-1:  Make a call and Report/Stop the Violence in School:  1-877-SAY-STOP
NOTE-2: Item 49 above is the Sexual offenders Link.  Updated twice daily.

12.  On the motion of Mr. Smith, seconded by Mrs. Mitchell, voted unanimously to approve the food service financial report.

13.  Partners-In-Education (PIE) Update:  Ms. Susan Schlader, Chairperson, informed the board that the next PIE meeting will be Wednesday, October 11. 
She also announced that Mrs. Gladys Doctrie, the Reading First Coach, will be conducting another Reading First training
session on Tuesday, October 17 at 5:30 p.m.  Individuals who are interested in becoming volunteer readers are encouraged to attend.  An upcoming Fathers Breakfast is also scheduled for Wednesday, November 1.  Flyers will be dispatched announcing this event.  The public is invited to come out and support this event.

14.  On the motion of Mrs. Mitchell, seconded by Mrs. Roland, voted unanimously to approve the school system financial report.  The board was updated on the D-46 sign-off problem and was told that a request would be made to reopen the system for correction.

15.  On the motion of Mrs. Roland, seconded by Mr. Smith, voted unanimously to approve the recommended RFP for expanding the physical fitness room project, using the same contractors.

16.  On the motion of Mrs. Mitchell, seconded by Mrs. Roland, voted unanimously to approve the recommended RFP a) additional security cameras and b) 30 bails of pine straw.

17.  On the motion of Mrs. Griffin, seconded by Mrs. Roland, voted unanimously to approve the request for payment of purchase orders, bills, etc.

18.  On the motion of Mrs. Mitchell, seconded by Mrs. Roland, voted unanimously to approve the following recommended fundraiser/project request:

Date Club/Organization Event/Facility
10/11/06 Pre-K Campus
10/15-12/19 FFA Shop
10/18/06 Incentive program  
10/28/06 Eastern Stars, Inc. Cafeteria
10/28/06 Volleyball Team/Rec. Dept. Gymnasium
11/03/06 PTA Gymnasium

20.  On the motion of Mrs. Griffin, seconded by Mrs. Mitchell, voted unanimously to approve the following facility requests:

Date Club/Organization Facility
10/07-11-30 Co. Recreation Dept. Football Field
10/14/06 Food Service Assoc./club Kitchen
10/26/06 Leadership Talbot Cafeteria
As Determined Upward Bound Program Cafeteria/Kitchen/Classrooms
01/23/07 Food Service Cafeteria

NOTE-1:  The following safety/security procedures for ensuring appropriate crowd control and acceptable entrance/exit routes in the parking areas when hosting school activities in the gymnasium:
     a.  Ensure the authorized building (gymnasium) State Fire Code capacity limitation is observed and enforced.
     b.  Ensure law enforcement officials enforce posted policies about no standing in the entrance/exit or walkways, and that spectators remain in the bleachers and behind the rails unless going to and from restrooms and the concession stand.
      c.  Ensure the assigned parking details keep an unobstructed entrance/exit sufficient to allow the free-flow of traffic to and from the
parking area at all times.  Double parking will not be allowed, and the student athletic field on the hill in back of the elementary school will be used for overflow parking.  Vehicles will be towed at the owner's expense.
      d.  Ensure assigned school staff/law enforcement officials effectively monitor gymnasium entrance/exit doors to prevent unauthorized entrance/exit, and to maintain an accurate count to make sure the building capacity limitation is observed and enforced.
      e.  Ensure signs are posted in the most visible areas to make people aware of policies to be observed in the gymnasium/facility.
      f.  Ensure policy violators are escorted from the premises.
      g.  Ensure the GHSA officials discontinue the game anytime it appears to be getting out of control and may potentially excite the crowd toward unacceptable behavior.
NOTE-2:  Personnel with authorized access to the Central Elementary/High School facility will comply with the following:
      a.  Safe guard their security access code when issued prohibited from sharing their security access code with anyone for any reason at any time).
      b.   Coordinate with the school system security monitor, Sandy Mitchell, in advance of entering the Central Elementary/High School facility at all times regardless of having an access code and authority to enter the facility.  The system is supervisory-monitored and
controlled and will be activated when procedures are violated.  Local law enforcement authorities are notified whenever there is a violation.
     c.   Ensure  the facility is properly closed upon leaving.  The system will also activate when doors are not properly closed.
     d.  It is considered trespassing whenever entrance is made into the building without advance coordination with the responsible grade level
principal and the school system security monitor. Staff members with keys, including those who have been assigned personal
access codes, are required to follow this procedure (including principals and central office administrators), too. Violators will be documented.
      e.  It is prohibited to hang items from any classroom ceiling (signs, banners, ornaments, etc).  Doing so will automatically set the alarm system off since it is already enabled and in the ready mode.  Principal will monitor this safety concern closely.

20.  On the motion of Mrs. Roland, seconded by Mrs. Mitchell, voted unanimously to approve the following trip requests:

Date Club/Organization Destination
10/12/06 JROTC Columbus
10/13/06 Pre-K Columbus
10/18/06 Reading First Columbus
10/19/06 FFA Moultrie
10/21/06 JROTC Columbus
10/27/06 21st Century Macon
10/31/06 Peer Helpers Columbus
11/10/06 Pre-K Columbus
12/15/06 Pre-K Columbus
02/12/07 MS Academic Team Marion County

Note 1: Pep bus authorized to accompany each basketball and football game on a reimbursable basis.
Note 2:  A transportation fee will be charged to organizations not sponsored by the Talbot County Board of Education.  The charge for using a school bus for non-system related activities is $3.50 per mile, including liability (old policy in effect pending board approval). 
This fee is to defray gas and maintenance costs.  In addition, the driver must be a school employee (permanent or substitute bus driver).  The driver's fee will be the responsibility of the requesting organization, and  is calculated by the driver's hourly rate times the number of hours required to complete the trip when non-certified school employee drivers are used.  
Non-certified school bus drivers will be paid time and a half whenever they take a trip which requires them to work in excess of 40 hours per week, regular time plus driving time.   Plus, all overtime work requests must be approved in advance by the superintendent.
Note 3: Only approved trips will be considered for Alternative Education Program (AEP) vehicle assets.  Coordination with the AEP Director is  required in advance when AEP vehicle assets are desired.  Note 2 applies with regular school vehicle assets.
Note 4: AEP vehicle assets will not be used to take regular students to and  from home on regular bus routes.  However, when approved in advance, such  vehicle assets may be used for 1)alternative education activities, 2) supplemental academic programs, 3) extra -curricular activities, 4) Family Connection Partnership (FCP) activities, 5) and approved community activities.
Note 5:   Dual employees are prohibited from working in excess of 40 hours in any given week without prior written approval from the superintendent.  Furthermore, any time an employee works in excess of 40 hours, he/she will  be paid time and a half overtime based on their hourly rate in accordance with the Fair Labor Standards Act.  Plus, overtime requests are required to
be in writing and be received and approved in advance by the superintendent.

21.  Continued emphasis was again placed on compliance with OCGA 60-5-1-06 (Employee Work Day), OCGA 20-2-210 (Annual Performance Evaluations) Reading First and Georgia's assurances, personal liability for on campus damages and
fair, firm and consistent enforcement of policy.

22.  Safety.  Be safety conscious and keep safety first.  Zero tolerance will be enforced on inappropriate behavior, including the loitering, visitors to school and visitors policy (OGGA 20-2-1180, TCSS Policy KM and KM-R) will be emphasized throughout the school year. 
Safety and security requires everyone's support and watchfulness at all times.  School leadership is fully aware of the need for ensuring the school setting is safe, secure and conducive to learning.  Increased  administrator visibility is required in the cafeteria
at lunch time and in the hallways at the change of classes is reemphasized.  Similar supervisory emphasis in expected for the 21st Century After School Program, the Upward Bound Program and the DHR Youth Initiative Program.

23.  On the motion of Mrs. Mitchell, seconded by Mrs. Griffin, voted  unanimously to approve the recommended Upward Bound Program facility request.

24.  On the motion of Mrs. Mitchell, seconded by Mrs. Griffin, voted  unanimously to approve the following recommended staff members for extended day:  a) Michael DeBruce, b) Constance Bailey, c) Leticia Cook, d) Nathaniel Lippitt, e) Jane Towns and f) Reginia Lockhart.

25.  Principal Tymes will assign a person to perform SASIxp data entry duties and will document the time management of subject duties when performed.

26.  On the motion of Mr. Smith, seconded by Mrs. Griffin, voted unanimously to approve the recommended coaches/yearbook/band supplement list: a) Calvin Epps, b)  Lonnie Freeman, c) Clifton White, d) Glen Gosier, f) Andrew Hall, g) Cecil Lester, h) Robert Jones, i)Gloria Ramsey, j) Walter Emory, k) Catherine Walker, l) Brenda Martin, m) Jose Pizarro, n) LeeRoy Fountain.

27.  On the motion of Mrs. Mitchell, seconded by Mrs. Griffin, voted unanimously to go into executive session to discuss student and personnel issues.

28.  On the motion of Mrs. Griffin, seconded by Mrs. Roland, voted unanimously to return to regular session.

29.  Principal Tymes will address concerns raised about the band and will ensure that no visitor goes unquestioned on campus and in the building. 
Everyone is to be watchful and attentive to potential incidents.  Questionable behavior is to be reported and checked.  Assigned
posts are to be manned as directed.  Students who are not assigned to specific programs, as approved by staff and parents, are not allowed on school property after the regular school day, 3:10 p.m., unless attending spectator activities or other events open to the public.

30.  On the  motion of Mr. Smith, seconded by Mrs. Roland, voted 3-2 (Mrs. Ferguson and Mrs. Griffin did not vote) to extend three years onto the superintendent's current contract.  The board chairperson stated that she  would coordinate the matter with the school attorney.

31.  Mrs. Roland and Mr. Smith will be reminded to attend the next bus drivers meeting on Monday,  October 30.

32.  On the motion of Mrs. Mitchell,  seconded by Mrs. Roland, voted unanimously to adjourn.  The next regular meeting is scheduled for November 14, 2006 at 6:00 p.m. in the central office located at 405 West Tyler Street.  Mrs. Griffin will host a public educational forum/town hall meeting in her district on October 21 at a time and place to be announced.  The public and school board members are encouraged to attend.

Robert W. Patrick
Superintendent

Top of the Page

November

The Talbot County Board of Education met in a Regular Session on November 14, 2006 at 6:00 p. m. with the following members present:  Mrs. Sally
Ferguson (D-1), Mr. Albert Smith (5),  Mrs. Linda Mitchell (D-2), Mrs. Marilyn Griffin (D-4) and Mrs. Martha Roland (D-3).

1. Meeting called to order by Chairperson, Mrs. Sally Ferguson.

2.  Moment of silence requested by Chairperson, Mrs. Sally Ferguson.

3.  The Pledge of Allegiance led by Superintendent Robert W. Patrick.

4.  On the motion of Mrs. Mitchell, seconded by Mrs. Roland, voted unanimously to approve the November 14, 2006 meeting agenda, as
amended.

5.  On the motion of  Mrs. Roland, seconded by Mrs. Griffin, voted unanimously to approve the October 10, 2006 regular meeting and the
October  21, 2006 called meeting minutes.

                                            SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENTS

***  Miss Homecoming and her court:  Shekelia Jenkins (senior), 1st runner-up Brittney Smith (junior) and 2nd runner-up Rena Strickland (junior).  Congratulations.
***  A contributory reflection in honor of Mrs. Linda Mitchell and Mrs. Martha Roland is scheduled for Friday, December 8 at 7:00 p.m. in the school  cafeteria.
***  Students recognized for making the Principal's List (45), Honor Roll (95) and having Perfect Attendance (160) were approved to attend the God Bless Fort Benning Day Program at the Columbus Civic Center on Saturday, November 18 from noon until 6:00 p.m.  Congratulations on a superb effort.

6.  Pine  Mountain Regional Library Update:  Mr. Charles Gee, Director, addressed the board and requested that two representatives be appointed to
the library board for the upcoming year.  The appointments are for three years.  The appointees will be named and provided as requested upon completion.

7. Curriculum and Instruction Update:  Assistant Superintendent Tannette Saunders briefed the board   on  the Focused Monitoring component of  Georgia's Continuous Improvement Monitoring Process (GCIMP) due to the need to increase mathematics performance of students with disabilities on statewide tests.  The GCIMP team will visit the school system November 28-30 to meet with parents, observe the delivery of classroom instruction and to interview teachers and administrators.  The superintendent, principal and others as named will be present for the exit briefing.  Refreshments will be served.  The public is encouraged to attend; their involvement is
important and is appreciated.  She further announced that the end-of-course-test (EOCT) will be administered beginning Monday,  November 27.  Performance outcome will equal 15% of  the student's grade for each subject.  Courses that will be tested include:  economics, U.S. History, literature, 9th grade literature, algebra, geometry, physical science and biology.  Performance outcome is  important and students are encouraged to do their best.

8.  NovaNet Update:  Mrs. Carol York, Technology Specialist, provided an update to the board on the purpose of NovaNet and how it will be used to help students succeed.  Accordingly, she stated that NovaNet is research-based and is widely implemented.  It will help students recover course credit, remediate, enrich their learning
experience, decrease the dropouts and increase the graduation rate. NovaNet is an individualized program that is self-paced to satisfy the needs of each student.  It is also aligned with approved performance standards.  Currently, we are contracted for 20 hours per instructional period.  The graduation coach will ensure students are monitored while using the program.   Ten staff members were trained to operate and run the system.  "They are ready to help our students," she stated.

9.  Reading First Update:  Mrs. Gladys Doctrie, education support specialist (ESS), provided a written update to the board on the current status of  the Reading First Program, and it was included in the monthly agenda package.  As part of the Reading First program and the Gerogia Performance Standards,  the students in grades K-3 and special needs students in grades K-5 are challenged to read 100 books (one million words) by the end of the school year.  On Wednesday, October 18, 73 students in grades K-3 and eight teachers/paraprofessionals went on a field trip to Hollywood Connections in Columbus.  They saw the movie "How to Eat Fried Worms." 
This treat was extended as a result of the students reaching their goal of reading 25 books or more during the first nine weeks.  The minimum amount of books read was 25 and one student read 112.  Not only did the students and teachers  enjoy this special treat, 26 parents accompanied the students. 
After the movie, they went to Cooper Creek Park and had lunch which was provided by the school.  "I want to personally thank the school board for their continued support," her update concluded.

10.  Principal/Design/School Improvement Team/School Council Update: Mr. Tymes informed the board about regularly scheduled meetings that are being held in collaboration with GADOE and RESA personnel.  A template will be made from critical data discussed at these meeting and is expected to be finished before Christmas.  The design team meetings are still being held weekly.  The focus of the meetings are on student achievement and the delivery of instruction as well as classroom
management.  Students needing additional support have been identified and are being scheduled for support as needed.  Increased monitoring of instructional delivery,
facility enhancement,  increased priority on safety and policy enforcement, ensuring that students and visitors have approved passes when in the halls unaccompanied and administering discipline in a fair, firm and consistent manner are ongoing.   In addition, Principal Tymes told the board that the homecoming activities, including the exciting game which Central lost by two points,  were a success.
 The Spot Light conference will be held for parents on November 15.  Reports will be issued and concerns addressed.  Finally, our Veterans Day program was held today.  It was a success and I would like to thank the VETERANS who joined us in celebrating this very worthwhile and proud occasion.  I would also like to thank  LTC
Jose Pizzaro, who was the keynote speaker, and the rest of the participants.

11.  Family Connection Partnership (FCP) Update:  Dorothy Bass, Director, briefed the board on the huge success of the FCP Annual Banquet.  She attributed the keynote speaker, State School Superintendent Kathy Cox, as being a major factor in getting the community to come out to this annual event.  In addition, she stated that two
members from the UGA Fanning Institute were in town on Thursday, October 26 and made a presentation to the community.  The meeting was held in the school cafeteria and was opened to the public.   The presentation provided an update on the current status of the community as it relates to schools, jobs, health, housing and workforce skills.  "After the presentation, questions were asked and suggestions made as to how we, as a community, can increase our potential in each of these areas as a  community," she stated.  It was also announced that the Leadership Talbot  County training is ongoing and is held as scheduled on the second Thursday of each month at 6:00 p.m. in the FCP Building.   Leadership Talbot is still working on the Carolyn Hugley Park project and expects to have it completed in the near future.   It was further briefed that the DHR Youth Initiative was approved and the contract processed for the purchase of program-related services.  The program has the potential to expand
beyond the experiences offered to selected students this summer.  Students will again be selected on the basis of financial eligibility, academic standings, behavior and attendance.  Some of our 21st Century and DHR students were selected to travel to Perry to see and welcome President George W. Bush on his visit to Georgia last week.  It was an awesome experience for everyone who went, students and teachers alike.  I would like to thank Principal Tymes for supporting this outing.  Finally, she stated that the next  FCP regular meeting will serve as their Thanksgiving Day meeting and is scheduled for Wednesday, November  15 at 11:30 a.m.  The public is invited
to attend.

12.   Alternative/Charter School Update:  Mr. Jerome C. Harris, Director, breifed the board on the current enrollment and status of the charter school.  Of the 16 students enrolled, 13 are females.  This trend is continued from last school term.  More girls than boys are being referred to the charter school for assistance.  Student behavior is improving and academics as well.  As a result, students were recognized for their efforts.   "State officials are scheduled to visit our school during the last week in
Novermber and we expect to be ready," he remarked.

12a.  The 21St Century After School Program.  Mrs. Cynthia Epps and Mrs. Brenda Walker, Site Managers, briefed the board on the operation of the program.    It was announced that more than 100 participants enrolled in the program and that it is still open to students who are interested in participating.  The focus of the program is on rituals and routines as a means to improve academic achievement and behavior as well as for acquiring acceptable social skills and traits.  We are also programmed to remediate students during intersession.  Fifteen students were referred for that purpose.  Seven took advantage of the opportunity.  Our efforts will continue to explore ways of motivating our students to take advantage of this opportunity.  In addition to helping to enrich the lives of our students, the program focuses on tapping and pulling out the best potential in our students, and we continue to see some great results as evidenced by some of the comments students make during their reflection time. 
During  reflection time, students are asked to write their comments about how they feel toward or think about the program.  We have been amazed with their input.  Most have been very positive.  More importantly, getting  their reflection input has allowed us to continue to assess the program and to continue to make changes to better serveour students.  The staff is doing a great job and reallyconnect to the students.  This is an indication that they not only care but are committed to making a difference in the life of each student.   "We are very proud of the job we are doing and continue to solicit your support in helping us in our effort to make a meaningful difference in our students day in and day out," she concluded.

13. 
 School/Educational-Relevant Website Update:
  1)
www.ed.gov,
  2) 
www.gadoe.org 
or 
www.gadoe.k12.ga.us
  3)
reportcards@gppf.org
  4)
www.gaschoolcouncil.org,
  5)
www.gsba.com
  6)  www.gssanet.org
  7) www.gael.org
  8) www.gacharters.org
  9) www.georgiafamilyconnection.org
 10) www.georgiapta.org
 11)
http://www.gsbaepolicy.org/
 12)  www.gahsc.org
 13) www.gapsc.org
 14) www.georgialearns.com
 15) www.ghsa.net
 16) www.georgiaencyclopedia.com
 17) www.dch.state.ga.us
 18) www.opb.state.ga.us
 19) www.djj.state.ga.us
 20) www.pageinc.org
 21) www.gae.org
 22) www.evenstart.org
 23) www.pta.org
 24) www.famlit.org
 25) www.fcp.org
 26) www.communityplanning.org
 27) www.census.gov
 28) www.georgiapie.org
 29) www.talbotccsb97
 30) www.talbot.k12.ga.us
 31)  www.nasdtec.org
 32) www.gaosa.org 
 33) www.peachcare.org
 34) www.ready.org
 35)  gema.state.ga.us
 36)  gpee.org
 37)  vluonline.org
 38)  pbs.org.curriculum.audit@pdkintl.org
 39)  ed.gov/21stcclc
 40)  afterschool.gov
 41)  coveringkids.us
 42)  gacte.org
 43)  dtae.org
 44)  gvtc.org
 45)  nea.org/neatoday
 46)  georgiatrend.com
 47)  georgiastandards.org
 48)  ganet.org/gbi 
 49) http://www.openrecords.org/records/sexual_offenders/georgia/

 50) GeorgiaEducation.org
 51)  georgiapta.org
 52)  aasa.org
 53)  edschools.org/reports-leaders, gafcp.org
 54)  naeyc.org/about/positions.asp
 55)  futureofchildren.org
 56)  csos.jhu.edu/p2000/sixtypes.htm, http://nces.ed.gov/ecls
 57)  srcd.org/documents/publications/SPR/spr17-1.pdf
NOTE-1:  Make a call and Report/Stop the Violence in School:  1-877-SAY-STOP
NOTE-2: Item 49 above is the Sexual offenders Link.  Updated twice daily.
NOTE 3:  Georgia Emergency Management Agency School Safety Unit -- 1-800-TRY-GEMA


14.  On the motion of Mrs. Roland, seconded by Mrs. Mitchell, voted unanimously to approve the food service financial report.

15.  Partners-In-Education (PIE) Update:  Ms. Susan Schlader, Chairperson, informed the board that last week was a busy week.  "Over 120 fathers attended the Fathers Day Breakfast.   It was a wonderful sight to see the children walking along holding their father's hand," she commented.  The Fathers Breakfast was held last Wednesday,
November 1 as scheduled.  The turn out was great, indicating that such programs are really making a positive difference in getting more of our parents involved in school activities with their children.  Mrs. Gladys Doctrie, the Reading First Coach, conducted a Reading First training session on Tuesday, October 17 and three volunteers,
Reba S. Brown, Annie Bailey and Patricia Robinson, attended.

16.  On the motion of Mrs. Mitchell, seconded by Mrs. Roland, voted unanimously to approve the school system financial report.  The board was updated on the D-46 sign-off problem and was told that the financial status was current as of September 29 as reflected.   The bookkeeper will present  the financial update on the 2005 closeout and answer questions at the next board meeting.

17.  On the motion of Mrs. Griffin, seconded by Mrs. Mitchell, voted unanimously to approve the recommended RFP a) blinds and door for the alternative/charter school b) two steps and landing for the mobile classroom, c) floor matting for the physical education fitness room, d) renovation of classrooms at the alternative school site for
the ERF Program, e) two hot water heaters, f) a water pipe g) two storage vans and h) Georgia Workers Compensation Trust Renewal, to include adding Valley Health Care as a provider.

18.  On the motion of Mrs. Mitchell, seconded by Mrs. Roland, voted unanimously to approve the request for payment of purchase orders, bills, etc.

19.  On the motion of Mrs. Roland, seconded by Mrs. Mitchell,  voted unanimously to approve the following facility requests
 
Date Club/Organization Event/Facility
        12/08/06        Family Connection Partnership Cafeteria/Kitchen
06/18/07 Chamber of Commerce Cafeteria/Kitchen

NOTE-1:  The following safety/security procedures for ensuring appropriate crowd control and acceptable entrance/exit routes in the parking areas when hosting school activities in the gymnasium:
     a.  Ensure the authorized building (gymnasium) State Fire Code capacity limitation is observed and enforced.
     b.  Ensure law enforcement officials enforce posted policies about no standing in the entrance/exit or walkways, and that spectators remain in the bleachers and behind the rails unless going to and from restrooms and the concession stand.
     c.  Ensure the assigned parking details keep an unobstructed entrance/exit sufficient to allow the free-flow of traffic to and from the parking area at all times.  Double parking will not be allowed, and the student athletic field on the hill in back of the elementary school will be used for overflow parking.  Vehicles will be towed at the owner's expense.
      d.  Ensure assigned school staff/law enforcement officials effectively monitor gymnasium entrance/exit doors to prevent unauthorized entrance/exit, and to maintain an accurate count to make sure the building capacity limitation is observed and enforced.
     e.  Ensure signs are posted in the most visible areas to make people aware of policies to be observed in the gymnasium/facility.
      f.  Ensure policy violators are escorted from the premises.
      g.  Ensure the GHSA officials discontinue the game anytime it appears to be getting out of control and may potentially excite the crowd toward unacceptable behavior.
NOTE-2:  Personnel with authorized access to the Central Elementary/High School facility will comply with the following:
      a.  Safe guard their security access code when issued prohibited from sharing their security access code with anyone for any reason at any time.
      b.   Coordinate with the school system security monitor, Sandy Mitchell, in advance of entering the Central Elementary/High School facility at all times regardless of having an access code and authority to enter the facility.  The system is supervisory-monitored and controlled and will be activated when procedures are violated.  Local
law enforcement authorities are notified whenever there is a violation.  The system will also activate when doors are not properly closed.
     d.  It is considered trespassing whenever entrance is made into the building without advance coordination with the responsible grade level principal and the school system security monitor.  Staff members with keys, including those who have been assigned personal access codes, are required to follow this procedure (including principals and central office administrators), too. Violators will be documented.
      e.  It is prohibited to hang items from any classroom ceiling (signs, banners, ornaments, etc).  Doing so will automatically set the alarm system off since it is already enabled and in the ready mode.  Principal will monitor this safety concern closely.

20.  On the motion of Mrs. Roland, seconded by Mrs. Mitchell, voted unanimously to approve the following trip requests:

Date Club/Organization Event/Facility
11/16/06 Basketball Team Harris County
11/18/06 21st Century Columbus
12/06/06 Tech College Americus

Note 1: Pep bus authorized to accompany each basketball and football game on  a reimbursable basis.
Note 2:  A transportation fee will be charged to organizations not sponsored by the Talbot County Board of Education.  The charge for using a school
bus for non-system related activities is $3.50 per mile, including liability (old policy in effect pending board approval).  This fee is to defray gas and maintenance costs.  In addition, the driver must be a school employee (permanent or substitute bus driver).  The driver's fee will be the responsibility of the requesting organization, and
is calculated by the driver's hourly rate times the number of hours required to complete the trip when non-certified school employee drivers are used.   Non-certified
school bus drivers will be paid time and a half whenever they take a trip which requires them to work in excess of 40 hours per week, regular time plus driving time.   Plus, all overtime work requests must be approved in advance by the superintendent.
Note 3: Only approved trips will be considered for Alternative Education Program (AEP) vehicle assets.  Coordination with the AEP Director is required in advance when AEP vehicle assets are desired.  Note 2 applies with regular school vehicle assets.
Note 4: AEP vehicle assets will not be used to take regular students to and from home on regular bus routes.  However, when approved in advance, such vehicle assets may be used for 1) alternative education activities, 2)supplemental academic programs, 3) extra -curricular activities, 4) Family Connection Partnership (FCP) activities, 5) and approved community activities.
Note 5:   Dual employees are prohibited from working in excess of 40 hours in any given week without prior written approval from the superintendent. Furthermore, any time an employee works in excess of 40 hours, he/she will be paid time and a half overtime based on their hourly rate in accordance with the Fair Labor Standards Act.   Plus, overtime requests are required to be in writing and be received and approved in advance by the superintendent.

21.  Continued emphasis was again placed on compliance with OCGA 60-5-1-06 (Employee Work Day), OCGA 20-2-210 (Annual Performance Evaluations) Reading
First and Georgia's assurances, personal liability for on campus damages and fair, firm and consistent enforcement of policy.

22.  Safety.  Be safety conscious and keep safety first.  Zero tolerance will be enforced on inappropriate behavior, including the loitering, visitors to school and visitors policy (OGGA 20-2-1180, TCSS Policy KM and KM-R) will be emphasized throughout the school year.  Safety and security requires everyone's support and watchfulness at all times.  School leadership is fully aware of the need for ensuring the school setting is safe, secure and conducive to learning.  Increased  administrator visibility is required in the cafeteria at lunch time and in the hallways at the change of classes is reemphasized.  Similar supervisory emphasis in expected for the 21st Century After School Program, the Upward Bound Program and the DHR Youth Initiative Program.

23.  Principal Tymes assigned KaSonya Powell to perform SASIxp data entry duties.  Upon receipt from the office of primary responsibility, the principal will approve SASI data entry requests and will ensure delivery and completion dates are documented.  This action will help satisfy the SASI data entry concern and meet the imposed timeline.

24.  On the  motion of Mrs. Mitchell, seconded by Mrs. Roland, voted unanimously to approve Ms. Sonya M. Copeland's resignation request.

25.  On the motion of Mrs. Mitchell, seconded by Mrs. Roland, voted unanimously to approve the superintendent's recommendation to place Lonnie Freeman of administrative leave with pay and to  hire  Arthur Miller as a long-term substitute teacher.

26.  Everyone is to be watchful and attentive to potential incidents.  Questionable behavior is to be reported and checked.  Assigned posts are to be manned as directed.  Students who are not assigned to specific programs, as approved by staff and parents, are not allowed on school property after the regular school day, 3:10 p.m.,
unless attending spectator activities or other events open to the public.  Students who are cited for trespassing will be referred to the principal and students assigned to the 21st Century program will be handled by that staff.  It was also noted that efforts were coordinated with the local law enforcement officials about the possibility of their providing on-site security by physically having a presence in (walking through) the building at certain times which have been considered to be critical to maintaining a safe
and secure setting.  The board agreed to the proposed agreement as discussed.  Concluding coordination will be made with the responsible law enforcement provider.

27.  On the motion of Mrs. Mitchell, seconded by Mrs. Griffin, voted unanimously for the food service accounting duties to be assumed by Susan Schlader, Mildred Biggs and Janie Graham without a pay increase.

28.  On the motion of Mrs. Griffin, seconded by Mr. Smith, voted unanimously to hold work sessions each Monday before the regular scheduled board meeting.

29.  On the motion of Mrs. Griffin, seconded by Mr. Smith, voted  unanimously to institute the use of GSBA-managed eboard program and to provide board members computers to use that program.

30.  Information was provided to answer concerns and questions raised about per diem increases.  Upon approval of the desires increase the official request will be submitted.

31.  No action was taken on a new proposal presented for the sale of land.  The superintendent was asked to check to see if the Tyler Street school location ( the old school site)  is acceptable for the construction of the proposed elementary school.  The superintendent was further asked about the status of the site at the intersection of Shipp
and  Teal roads in which the board previously expressed an interest in buying.  The status was still pending board approval.  Action will be taken to have the both Tyler Street sites revisited for possible construction of the proposed school.

32.  On the motion of Mrs. Mitchell,  seconded by Mrs. Roland, voted unanimously to adjourn.  The next regular meeting is scheduled for December 12, 2006 at 6:00 p.m. in the central office located at 405 West Tyler Street.  The next education committee is scheduled for Monday, January 8, 2007, at 5:00 p.m.  The public and school board
members are encouraged to attend.

Robert W. Patrick
Superintendent
Top of the Page

December

The Talbot County Board of Education met in a Regular Session on December 12, 2006 at 6:00 p. m. with the following members present:  Mrs. Sally
Ferguson (D-1), Mr. Albert Smith (5),  Mrs. Linda Mitchell (D-2), Mrs. Marilyn Griffin (D-4) and Mrs. Martha Roland (D-3).

1. Meeting called to order by Chairperson, Mrs. Sally Ferguson.

2.  Moment of silence requested by Chairperson, Mrs. Sally Ferguson.
>
3.  The Pledge of Allegiance led by Superintendent Robert W. Patrick.

4.  On the motion of Mr. Smith, seconded by Mrs. Mitchell, voted  unanimously to approve the December 12, 2006 meeting agenda.

5.  On the motion of  Mrs. Mitchell, seconded by Mrs. Griffin, voted unanimously to approve the November 14, 2006 regular meeting minutes.

6. Curriculum and Instruction Update:  Assistant Superintendent Tannette Saunders briefed the board on the Focused Monitoring visit which was
conducted November 28-30.  The visit was conducted to provide assistance and emphasis on the need to increase mathematics performance of students
with disabilities on statewide tests.  "The results of the visit have not been received.  Nevertheless, based on the results of student performance,
we have work to do," she concluded.

7.  Principal/Design/School Improvement Team/School Council Update: Mr. Edward Tymes informed the board about regularly scheduled meetings that are
being held in collaboration with GADOE and RESA personnel.  A template is assessable to make critical data available to the instructional staff for
identifying student achievement needs.  The weekly design team meetings are still being held as briefed.  The focus of the meetings remains on student achievement and the delivery of instruction as well as classroom management.  Students needing  additional remediation have been identified and are being scheduled for
support as needed.  The principal presented a remediation proposal which identified students needing additional academic support as well as staff
members and resources which will be used in that remediation effort.  Increased monitoring of instructional delivery from bell-to-bell and
enhanced scheduling will be monitored to ensure increased attendance is realized for students identified and scheduled for remediation.  The achievement intervention proposal received board consensus for  implementation.  The proposal addresses achievement concerns and assigns accountability for results.  Students are not allowed to sleep nor have their heads on their desks during the instruction period.  It was also reemphasized that increased and ongoing priority remain on safety and policy enforcement in an effort to ensure that students and visitors have approved passes when in the halls unaccompanied.  Concern was also expressed about the expected completion of the GACollege411 data entry requirement.  Further, the need to administrate discipline in a fair, firm and consistent manner was reemphasized.

8.  Family Connection Partnership (FCP) Update:  Dorothy Bass, Director, briefed the board on the huge success of the dinner honoring outgoing
school board members Linda Mitchell and Martha Roland in support of the school system and community children.  It was also announced that the Leadership Talbot County training is ongoing and is held as scheduled on the second Thursday of each month at 6:00 p.m. in the FCP Building.  Leadership Talbot is still working on the Carolyn Hugley Park project and expects to have it completed in the near future.  It was  further briefed that the DHR Youth Initiative was approved and that
students are currently being considered for participation in the program.  One of the criterion for selecting students to participate in the DHR program is
enrollment in the 21st Century After School Program.  Finally, she stated  that the next FCP regular meeting will serve as their Christmas Holiday
meeting and is scheduled for Wednesday, December 13 at 11:30 a.m.  The public is invited to attend.

9.  The 21St Century After School Program. Mrs. Cynthia Epps, Co-Site Manager, briefed the board on the operation of the program.  It was announced that more than 100 participants are enrolled in the program and that it is still open to students who are interested in participating.  "The program is doing some exciting and wonderful things," she said.  The focus of the program is on rituals and routines as a means to improve academic achievement and behavior as well as for acquiring acceptable social skills and traits.  We are also programmed to remediate students during intersession and after school.  The NovaNet Program is up and running.  21st Century enrollees are eligible to participate and are encouraged to do so.   In addition to helping to enrich the lives of our students, the program focuses on tapping and pulling out  the best potential in our students, and we continue to see some great results as evidenced by some of the comments students make during
reflection time.  Enrollment opportunities are still available.   Contact Cynthia Epps or Brenda Walker at the CEHS site after school Monday through Thursday.

10.  School/Educational-Relevant Website Update:
  1)
www.ed.gov,
  2) 
www.gadoe.org 
or 
www.gadoe.k12.ga.us
  3)
reportcards@gppf.org
  4)
www.gaschoolcouncil.org,
  5)
www.gsba.com
  6)  www.gssanet.org
  7) www.gael.org
  8) www.gacharters.org
  9) www.georgiafamilyconnection.org
 10) www.georgiapta.org
 11)
http://www.gsbaepolicy.org/
 12)  www.gahsc.org
 13) www.gapsc.org
 14) www.georgialearns.com
 15) www.ghsa.net
 16) www.georgiaencyclopedia.com
 17) www.dch.state.ga.us
 18) www.opb.state.ga.us
 19) www.djj.state.ga.us
 20) www.pageinc.org
 21) www.gae.org
 22) www.evenstart.org
 23) www.pta.org
 24) www.famlit.org
 25) www.fcp.org
 26) www.communityplanning.org
 27) www.census.gov
 28) www.georgiapie.org
 29) www.talbotccsb97
 30) www.talbot.k12.ga.us
 31)  www.nasdtec.org
 32) www.gaosa.org 
 33) www.peachcare.org
 34) www.ready.org
 35)  gema.state.ga.us
 36)  gpee.org
 37)  vluonline.org
 38)  pbs.org.curriculum.audit@pdkintl.org
 39)  ed.gov/21stcclc
 40)  afterschool.gov
 41)  coveringkids.us
 42)  gacte.org
 43)  dtae.org
 44)  gvtc.org
 45)  nea.org/neatoday
 46)  georgiatrend.com
 47)  georgiastandards.org
 48)  ganet.org/gbi 
 49) http://www.openrecords.org/records/sexual_offenders/georgia/

 50) GeorgiaEducation.org
 51)  georgiapta.org
 52)  aasa.org
 53)  edschools.org/reports-leaders, gafcp.org
 54)  naeyc.org/about/positions.asp
 55)  futureofchildren.org
 56)  csos.jhu.edu/p2000/sixtypes.htm, http://nces.ed.gov/ecls
 57)  srcd.org/documents/publications/SPR/spr17-1.pdf
NOTE-1:  Make a call and Report/Stop the Violence in School:  1-877-SAY-STOP
NOTE-2: Item 49 above is the Sexual offenders Link.  Updated twice daily.
NOTE 3:  Georgia Emergency Management Agency School Safety Unit -- 1-800-TRY-GEMA


11.  On the motion of Mrs. Roland, seconded by Mr. Smith, voted unanimously to approve the food service financial report.

12.  Partners-In-Education (PIE) Update:  Ms. Susan Schlader, Chairperson, informed the board that letters about the business career and hobby day
have already been sent out.  The event is scheduled for Friday, February 23, 2007.

13.  On the motion of Mrs. Mitchell, seconded by Mrs. Roland, voted unanimously to approve the school system financial roport.

14.  On the motion of Mrs. Griffin, seconded by Mrs. Roland, voted unanimously to approve the resolution for the Five Year Facility Plan.

15.  On the motion of Mrs. Mitchell, seconded by Mrs. Roland, voted unanimously to approve the recommended RFP a) concrete slab (40' x 60") for
bus lift, b) A/C unit for classrooms,  c)  concrete slab for gate entrance to bus parking lot, d) electrical and plumbing supplies,  e)  LCD computer
monitors and equipment upholstery.

17.  On the motion of Mrs. Griffin, seconded by Mrs. Roland, voted unanimously to approve the request for payment of purchase orders, bills,
etc.

18.  On the motion of Mrs. Mitchell, seconded by Mrs. Griffin, voted unanimously to approve the following project requests:

 
Date Club/Organization Event/Facility
Dec. 2006 TSA Campus
12/15-16/06 CHES Campus
Jan.-Feb. 07 TSA/FBLA Campus

19.  On the motion of Mrs. Roland, seconded by Mrs. Mitchell,  voted unanimously to approve the following facility requests:

Date Club/Organization Event/Facility
12/19/06 Bus Drivers School
12/22/06 Food Service School
01/03/07 School Staff School

NOTE-1:  The following safety/security procedures for ensuring appropriate crowd control and acceptable entrance/exit routes in the parking areas when
hosting school activities in the gymnasium:

     a.  Ensure the authorized building (gymnasium) State Fire Code capacity limitation is observed and enforced.
     b.  Ensure law enforcement officials enforce posted policies about no  standing in the entrance/exit or walkways, and that spectators remain in  the bleachers and  behind the rails unless going to and from restrooms and the concession stand.
     c.  Ensure the assigned parking details keep an unobstructed entrance/exit sufficient to allow the free-flow of traffic to and from the
parking area at all times.  Double parking will not be allowed, and the student athletic field on the hill in back of the elementary school will be used for overflow parking.  Vehicles will be towed at the owner's expense.
      d.  Ensure assigned school staff/law enforcement officials effectively monitor gymnasium entrance/exit doors to prevent unauthorized entrance/exit, and to maintain an accurate count to make sure the building capacity limitation is observed and enforced.
     e.  Ensure signs are posted in the most visible areas to make people aware of policies to be observed in the gymnasium/facility.
     f.  Ensure policy violators are escorted from the premises.
     g.  Ensure the GHSA officials discontinue the game anytime it appears to be getting out of control and may potentially excite the crowd toward unacceptable behavior.

NOTE-2:  Personnel with authorized access to the Central Elementary/High School facility will comply with the following:
      a.  Safe guard their security access code when issued prohibited from sharing their security access code with anyone for any reason at any time.
      b.   Coordinate with the school system security monitor, Sandy Mitchell, in advance of entering the Central Elementary/High School
facility at all times regardless of having an access code and authority to enter the facility.  The system is supervisory-monitored and controlled and will be activated when procedures are violated.  Local law enforcement authorities are notified whenever there is a violation.  The system will also activate when doors are not properly closed.
     d.  It is considered trespassing whenever entrance is made into the building without advance coordination with the responsible grade level principal and the school system security monitor.  Staff members with keys, including those who have been assigned personal access codes, are required to follow this procedure (including principals and central office administrators), too. Violators will be documented.
      e.  It is prohibited to hang items from any classroom ceiling (signs, banners, ornaments, etc).  Doing so will automatically set the alarm system
 off since it is already enabled and in the ready mode.  Principal will monitor this safety concern closely.

20.  On the motion of Mr. Smith, seconded by Mrs. Roland, voted unanimously to approve the following trip requests:

Date Club/Organization Event/Facility
12/14/06 JROTC Columbus
12/15/06 Even Start Columbus
12/17/06 Band Columbus
01/06/07 JROTC Fort Benning
01/13/07 Band LaGrange
01/25/07 JROTC Columbus
01/28/07 Band Columbus
01/31/07 JROTC Columbus
02/08/07   Columbus
02/14/07 JROTC Fort Benning

Note 1: Pep bus authorized to accompany each basketball and football game on a reimbursable basis.
Note 2:  A transportation fee will be charged to organizations not sponsored by the Talbot County Board of Education.  The charge for using a
school bus for non-system related activities is $3.50 per mile, including liability (old policy in effect pending board approval).  This fee is to defray gas and maintenance costs.  In addition, the driver must be a school employee (permanent or substitute bus driver).  The driver's fee will be the responsibility of the requesting organization, and is calculated by the driver's hourly rate times the number of hours required to complete the trip when non-certified school employee drivers are used.   Non-certified
school bus drivers will be paid time and a half whenever they take a trip which requires them to work in excess of 40 hours per week, regular time plus driving time.   Plus, all overtime work requests must be approved in advance by the superintendent.
Note 3: Only approved trips will be considered for Alternative Education Program (AEP) vehicle assets.  Coordination with the AEP Director is required in advance when AEP vehicle assets are desired.  Note 2 applies with regular school vehicle assets.
Note 4: AEP vehicle assets will not be used to take regular students to and from home on regular bus routes.  However, when approved in advance, such vehicle assets may be used for 1) alternative education activities, 2) supplemental academic programs, 3) extra -curricular activities, 4) Family Connection Partnership (FCP) activities, 5) and approved community activities.
Note 5:   Dual employees are prohibited from working in excess of 40 hours in any given week without prior written approval from the superintendent.
Furthermore, any time an employee works in excess of 40 hours, he/she will be paid time and a half overtime based on their hourly rate in accordance
with the Fair Labor Standards Act.   Plus, overtime requests are required to be in writing and be received and approved in advance by the superintendent.

21.  Continued emphasis was again placed on compliance with OCGA 60-5-1-06 (Employee Work Day), OCGA 20-2-210 (Annual Performance Evaluations) Reading
First and Georgia's assurances, personal liability for on campus damages and fair, firm and consistent enforcement of policy.

22.  Safety.  Be safety conscious and keep safety first.  Zero tolerance will be enforced on inappropriate behavior, including the loitering, visitors to school and visitors policy (OGGA 20-2-1180, TCSS Policy KM and KM-R) will be emphasized throughout the school year.  Safety and security requires everyone's support and
watchfulness at all times.  School leadership is fully aware of the need for ensuring the school setting is safe, secure and conducive to learning.  Increased  administrator visibility is required in the cafeteria at lunch time and in the hallways at the change of classes is reemphasized.  Similar supervisory emphasis in expected for the
21st Century After School Program, the Upward Bound Program and the DHR Youth Initiative Program.

23.  On the  motion of Mrs. Mitchell, seconded by Mrs. Griffin, voted unanimously to go into executive session to discuss real estate.

24.  On the motion of Mrs. Mitchell, seconded by Mrs. Roland, voted unanimously to return to regular session.

25.  On the motion of Mrs. Mitchell, seconded by Mr. Smith, voted 3-2 to purchase real estate at the intersession of Shipp and Teal Roads.  Mrs. Ferguson and Mrs. Griffin opposed.  The superintendent was asked to check and determine when the collaborative grant was approved between Head Start,
Flint River Technical College and the school system to renovate the old school building at the W. Tyler Street location.

26.  Everyone is to be watchful and attentive to potential incidents.  Questionable behavior is to be reported and checked.  Assigned posts are to be manned as directed.  Students who are not assigned to specific programs, as approved by staff and parents, are not  allowed on school property after the regular school day, 3:10 p.m., unless
attending spectator activities or other events open to the public.  Students who are cited for trespassing will be referred to the principal and students assigned to the 21st Century program  will be handled by that staff.  It was also noted that efforts were coordinated with the local law enforcement officials about the possibility of their providing on-site security by physically having a presence in (walking through) the building at certain times which have been considered to be critical to maintaining a
safe and secure setting.  The board agreed to the proposed agreement as  discussed.  Concluding coordination will be made with the responsible law enforcement provider by Ms. Flora M. Lindsey..

27.  On the motion of Mrs. Mitchell, seconded by Mr. Smith, voted unanimously to disapproved a written resignation request.

28.  On the motion of Mrs. Griffin,  seconded by Mrs. Mitchell, voted unanimously to adjourn.  The next regular meeting is scheduled for January
9, 2007 at 6:00 p.m. in the central office located at 405 West Tyler Street.  The two new board members will be installed. The public and school board members are encouraged to attend.

Robert W. Patrick
Superintendent
Top of the Page

January
 

The Talbot County Board of Education met in a Regular Session on January 9, 2007 at 6:00 p. m. with the following members present:  Mrs. Sally Ferguson (D-1), Mr. Albert Smith (5),  Mrs. Marilyn Griffin (D-4), Mrs. Muriel Marshall (D-2) and Mrs. Shamona Willis (D-3).

1. Meeting called to order by Chairperson, Mrs. Sally Ferguson.

2.  Moment of silence requested by Chairperson, Mrs. Sally Ferguson.

3.  The Pledge of Allegiance led by Superintendent Robert W. Patrick.

4.  Board members Muriel Marshall and Shamona Willis took  the oath of office and were sworn in by Probate Judge Slade Johnson as they officially
began their term of office as school board members.

5.  On the motion of Mrs. Griffin, seconded by Mr. Smith, voted unanimously to approve the January 9, 2007 meeting agenda.

6.  On the motion of Mrs. Griffin, seconded by Mr. Smith, voted unanimously to approve the December 12, 2006 regular meeting minutes and the January 3, 2007 called meeting minutes.

                                            SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENTS
A meeting of the Georgia School Nutrition Association (GSNA) Third District will be held on January 23, 2007 from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. in the CEHS Cafeteria.

7. Curriculum and Instruction Update:  Assistant Superintendent Tannette Saunders briefed the  board on the recently concluded Focused Monitoring
Visit Report.  Two areas require our response. First, we will meet with locally selected staff members and consultants on January 17 to brainstorm on how to solve  the problems identified in the Focused Monitoring Report.  Next, we will write the corrective action plan and submit it to the state by February 16, 2007.  We will receive resources in the amount of $10,000.00 to fix the problem.  "The deadline for completing the correction is
2009," she announced.

8. Early Reading First (ERF) Update:  Mr. David Davidson, Project Coordinator, briefed the board on the implementation status of ERF.  He told
the board that the program would serve over 100 students and will have a staff of approximately 20 people.  He emphasized his belief in the ability
and desire of every child to learn.  He further stated that a major focus of his leadership would be on building increased capacity for ensuring each child to be exposed to a print-rich environment and be instructed by a highly qualified and very dedicated staff.  In addition, he expressed optimism about meeting program deadlines for having the program up and running by designated benchmarks.  "I am grateful to share in this wonderful learning
opportunity with you and through our assessment and accountability process,  we will obtain the results reflected in your outstanding grant proposal," he concluded.

9.  Reading First Update:  Mrs. Gladys Doctrie, education support specialist (ESS), provided an update to the board on the current status of the Reading First program.  As part of the Reading First program and the Georgia Performance Standards, the students in grades K-3 and special needs students in grades K-5 are challenged to read 100 books (one million words) by the end of the school year.  On Friday, January 12, 69 students in grades K-3 and 11 staff members are scheduled to go on a field trip to Hollywood Connections in Columbus.  The children will see
"Happily Never After."  It is rated GP.  In addition, each child will receive a 40 points game card.  This animated treat is extended as a result
of the students reaching their goal of reading 25 books or more during the second nine weeks.  The minimum amount of books read was 25.  "I want to personally thank the school board for their continued support," she concluded.

10.  Principal/Design/School Improvement Team/School Council Update: Principal Tymes informed the board about the completion of class schedules and the school improvement intervention plan which was decided upon to ensure more students meet academic expectations.  Students needing assistance have been identified.  Test results were used to pinpoint specific content strands which are deficient and a study skills class was scheduled to ensure expected student attendance goals and academic gains are met.  School improvement meetings are being held.  The focus of the meetings is on student achievement and the delivery of instruction as well as classroom management.  Students needing additional support -- in science and social studies in particular--  have been identified and are scheduled for support as needed.  Increased monitoring of instructional delivery and increased priority on safety and policy enforcement were also briefed as means of ensuring students are kept in class and being provided  effective instructions.   Further, the update on the principal's restructuring plan was also recommended for approval.   The restructuring
plan addresses three primary components:  a) distributive leadership, b) curriculum and staff development and c) a language arts academic coach.  The basketball  middle and high school programs are doing well.  The boys varsity basketball team won a regional holiday tournament in December.  Tomorrow, January 10, we will issue report cards and have advisement as scheduled.

11.  Family Connection Partnership (FCP) Update:  Dorothy Bass, Director, briefed the board on the huge success of the FCP throughout the year.  In highlighting some of last year's accomplishments, she pointed out that several political, social, civic and educational leaders were invited and  came to Talbotton to visit and rub elbows with local people on behalf of FCP. The Honorable Congressman Phil Gringrey was in town and attended the annual Chamber of Commerce reception.  During that time he took the time to publicly announce and present to Mrs. Dorothy Bass a $5,000.00 check on behalf of her leadership effort with the local FCP.  It was also announced that the Leadership Talbot County training is ongoing and is held as scheduled on the second Thursday of each month at 6:00 p.m. in the FCP Building.  Leadership Talbot is still working  on the Carolyn Hugley Park project and expects to have it completed in calendar year 2007.   It was further briefed that the DHR Youth Initiative was approved, the contract processed  and returned for the purchase of program-related services.  Under the recently approved proposal, 35 students will receive a stipend and five students will be compensated for being selected as peer/student workers.  On Monday, January 15, FCP will sponsor 15 students and adults at the Annual MLK Unity Breakfast.  Finally, she stated that the next FCP regular meeting  is scheduled for Wednesday, January 17 at 11:30 a.m.  The public is invited to attend.

12.  Even Start Program Update:  Mrs. Alice Johnson, Director.  Mrs. Dorothy Bass informed the board that the program is near full capacity.  However, students are still being accepted for enrollment.  Request that persons who are interested in signing up for the program contact Mrs. Alice Johnson at extension 665-8831.

13.  Alternative/Charter School Update:  Mr. Jerome C. Harris, Director.  Mrs. Dorothy Bass briefed the board on the status of the charter school. 
Fourteen students are currently assigned.  Facility improvements are ongoing.  In addition, coordination is continuing in an effort to secure classroom/training space for the Early Reading First Program.  The director is scheduled to attend a charter conference on January 25 in Atlanta.

14.  FRTC Update:  Mr. Len Moore, Director of Adult Literacy.  The Adult Literacy program is doing well.  Three course offerings are currently available for local students:  a)  Certified Nurses Assistant (CNA), b) Introduction to computers and c) Truck Driving (CDL) certification.

15.  The 21st Century After School Program.  Mrs. Cynthia Epps and Mrs.Brenda Walker, Site Managers.  Mrs. Epps briefed the board on the operation of the program.  It was announced that approximately 200 participants are currently enrolled in the program and that it is still open to students who are interested in participating.  The focus of the program is on rituals and routines as a means to improve academic achievement and behavior as well as for acquiring acceptable social skills and traits.  We are also programmed to remediate students daily and during intersession.   Our efforts will continue to explore ways of motivating our students to take advantage of this wonderful and exciting educational program.  As a result, we are scheduled to take approximately 130 students on a field trip to the Fernbank Museum in Atlanta on Saturday, January 27.  This trip is scheduled partially in  recognition of their participation in the program but, more importantly, to expose them to different and diverse
learning experiences beyond the scope of their normal environment.  We have been staffed to reduce our student-teacher ratio. The staff is doing a great job and really connect to the students.  This is an indication that they not only care about our students, but are committed to making a meaningful and positive difference in their lives.  "We are very proud of the job we are doing and continue to solicit your support in helping us in our effort to
make a meaningful difference in our students,  day in and day out," she concluded.

16.  School/Educational-Relevant Website Update:
  1)
www.ed.gov,
  2) 
www.gadoe.org  or  www.gadoe.k12.ga.us
  3)
reportcards@gppf.org
  4)
www.gaschoolcouncil.org,
  5)
www.gsba.com
  6)  www.gssanet.org
  7) www.gael.org
  8) www.gacharters.org
  9) www.georgiafamilyconnection.org
 10) www.georgiapta.org
 11)
http://www.gsbaepolicy.org/
 12)  www.gahsc.org
 13) www.gapsc.org
 14) www.georgialearns.com
 15) www.ghsa.net
 16) www.georgiaencyclopedia.com
 17) www.dch.state.ga.us
 18) www.opb.state.ga.us
 19) www.djj.state.ga.us
 20) www.pageinc.org
 21) www.gae.org
 22) www.evenstart.org
 23) www.pta.org
 24) www.famlit.org
 25) www.fcp.org
 26) www.communityplanning.org
 27) www.census.gov
 28) www.georgiapie.org
 29) www.talbotccsb97
 30) www.talbot.k12.ga.us
 31)  www.nasdtec.org
 32) www.gaosa.org 
 33) www.peachcare.org
 34) www.ready.org
 35)  gema.state.ga.us
 36)  gpee.org
 37)  vluonline.org
 38)  pbs.org.curriculum.audit@pdkintl.org
 39)  ed.gov/21stcclc
 40)  afterschool.gov
 41)  coveringkids.us
 42)  gacte.org
 43)  dtae.org
 44)  gvtc.org
 45)  nea.org/neatoday
 46)  georgiatrend.com
 47)  georgiastandards.org
 48)  ganet.org/gbi 
 49) http://www.openrecords.org/records/sexual_offenders/georgia/

 50) GeorgiaEducation.org
 51)  georgiapta.org
 52)  aasa.org
 53)  edschools.org/reports-leaders, gafcp.org
 54)  naeyc.org/about/positions.asp
 55)  futureofchildren.org
 56)  csos.jhu.edu/p2000/sixtypes.htm, http://nces.ed.gov/ecls
 57)  srcd.org/documents/publications/SPR/spr17-1.pdf
NOTE-1:  Make a call and Report/Stop the Violence in School:  1-877-SAY-STOP
NOTE-2: Item 49 above is the Sexual offenders Link.  Updated twice daily.
NOTE 3:  Georgia Emergency Management Agency School Safety Unit -- 1-800-TRY-GEMA


17. On the motion of Mrs. Griffin, seconded by Mr. Smith, voted unanimously to approve the food service financial report.

18.  Partners-In-Education (PIE) Update:  Ms. Susan Schlader, Chairperson, informed the board that Reading First training sessions for volunteer
readers are ongoing.  There are about five people left to be trained.  "I attribute the newspaper article in  the Talbotton New Era  for the success we have gotten with volunteer readers (most are retirees)", she stated.  On February 23 PIE will be sponsoring a Career (middle and high school and Hobby Day (elementary school).  Last year this event was a success.  We expect similar success this year.  This event is co-sponsored with our school partners (the local Chamber of Commerce and Three Rivers AHEC).  We solicit faculty and staff support for this event.

19.  On the motion of Mr. Smith, seconded by Mrs. Willis, voted unanimously to approve the PIE grant request to secure funds in support of the CEHS art
program.

20.  On the motion of Mrs. Griffin, seconded by Mr. Smith, voted unanimously to approve the restructuring plan submitted by Principal Tymes, with the
understanding that potential recommendations may be forthcoming from the board.

21.  On the motion of Mrs. Griffin, seconded by Mr. Smith, voted unanimously to approve the school system financial report with the recommended 
correction.

22.  On the motion of Mr. Smith, seconded by Mrs. Willis, voted unanimously to approve the recommended RFPs.

23.  On the motion of Mrs. Griffin, seconded by Mrs. Marshall, voted unanimously to approve the request for payment of purchase orders, bills, etc.

24.  On the motion of Mrs. Griffin, seconded by Mrs. Marshall, voted unanimously to approve the following facility request
s:

Date Club/Organization Event/Facility
01/13/07 NAACP School/gymnasium
01/23/07 Food Services School

NOTE-1:  The following safety/security procedures for ensuring appropriate crowd control and acceptable entrance/exit routes in the parking areas when
hosting school activities in the gymnasium:
     a.  Ensure the authorized building (gymnasium) State Fire Code capacity limitation is observed and enforced.
     b.  Ensure law enforcement officials enforce posted policies about no  standing in the entrance/exit or walkways, and that spectators remain in  the bleachers and  behind the rails unless going to and from restrooms and the concession stand.
     c.  Ensure the assigned parking details keep an unobstructed entrance/exit sufficient to allow the free-flow of traffic to and from the
parking area at all times.  Double parking will not be allowed, and the student athletic field on the hill in back of the elementary school will be used for overflow parking.  Vehicles will be towed at the owner's expense.
      d.  Ensure assigned school staff/law enforcement officials effectively monitor gymnasium entrance/exit doors to prevent unauthorized entrance/exit, and to maintain an accurate count to make sure the building capacity limitation is observed and enforced.
     e.  Ensure signs are posted in the most visible areas to make people aware of policies to be observed in the gymnasium/facility.
     f.  Ensure policy violators are escorted from the premises.
     g.  Ensure the GHSA officials discontinue the game anytime it appears to be getting out of control and may potentially excite the crowd toward unacceptable behavior.
NOTE-2:  Personnel with authorized access to the Central Elementary/High School facility will comply with the following:
      a.  Safe guard their security access code when issued prohibited from sharing their security access code with anyone for any reason at any time.
      b.   Coordinate with the school system security monitor, Sandy Mitchell, in advance of entering the Central Elementary/High School
facility at all times regardless of having an access code and authority to enter the facility.  The system is supervisory-monitored and controlled and will be activated when procedures are violated.  Local law enforcement authorities are notified whenever there is a violation.  The system will also activate when doors are not properly closed.
     d.  It is considered trespassing whenever entrance is made into the building without advance coordination with the responsible grade level principal and the school system security monitor.  Staff members with keys, including those who have been assigned personal access codes, are required to follow this procedure (including principals and central office administrators), too. Violators will be documented.
      e.  It is prohibited to hang items from any classroom ceiling (signs, banners, ornaments, etc).  Doing so will automatically set the alarm system
 off since it is already enabled and in the ready mode.  Principal will monitor this safety concern closely.

25.  On the motion of Mr. Smith, seconded by Mrs. Roland, voted unanimously to approve the following trip requests:

Date Club/Organization Event/Facility
01/13/07 CEHS RF Program Columbus
01/27/07 21st Century Program Atlanta

Note 1: Pep bus authorized to accompany each basketball and football game on a reimbursable basis.
Note 2:  A transportation fee will be charged to organizations not sponsored by the Talbot County Board of Education.  The charge for using a
school bus for non-system related activities is $3.50 per mile, including liability (old policy in effect pending board approval).  This fee is to defray gas and maintenance costs.  In addition, the driver must be a school employee (permanent or substitute bus driver).  The driver's fee will be the responsibility of the requesting organization, and is calculated by the driver's hourly rate times the number of hours required to complete the trip when non-certified school employee drivers are used.   Non-certified
school bus drivers will be paid time and a half whenever they take a trip which requires them to work in excess of 40 hours per week, regular time plus driving time.   Plus, all overtime work requests must be approved in advance by the superintendent.
Note 3: Only approved trips will be considered for Alternative Education Program (AEP) vehicle assets.  Coordination with the AEP Director is required in advance when AEP vehicle assets are desired.  Note 2 applies with regular school vehicle assets.
Note 4: AEP vehicle assets will not be used to take regular students to and from home on regular bus routes.  However, when approved in advance, such vehicle assets may be used for 1) alternative education activities, 2) supplemental academic programs, 3) extra -curricular activities, 4) Family Connection Partnership (FCP) activities, 5) and approved community activities.
Note 5:   Dual employees are prohibited from working in excess of 40 hours in any given week without prior written approval from the superintendent.
Furthermore, any time an employee works in excess of 40 hours, he/she will be paid time and a half overtime based on their hourly rate in accordance
with the Fair Labor Standards Act.   Plus, overtime requests are required to be in writing and be received and approved in advance by the superintendent.

26.  Continued emphasis was again placed on compliance with OCGA 60-5-1-06 (Employee Work Day), OCGA 20-2-210 (Annual Performance Evaluations) Reading
First and Georgia's assurances, personal liability for on campus damages and fair, firm and consistent enforcement of policy.

27.  Safety.  Be safety conscious and keep safety first.  Zero tolerance will be enforced on inappropriate behavior, including the loitering, visitors to school and visitors policy (OGGA 20-2-1180, TCSS Policy KM and KM-R) will be emphasized throughout the school year.  Safety and security requires everyone's support and watchfulness at all times.  School leadership is fully aware of the need for ensuring the school setting is safe, secure and conducive to learning.  Increased  administrator visibility is required in the cafeteria at lunch time and in the hallways at the change of classes is reemphasized.  Similar supervisory emphasis in expected for the 21st Century After School Program, the Upward Bound Program and the DHR Youth Initiative Program.

28.  Everyone is to be watchful and attentive to potential incidents.  Questionable behavior is to be reported and checked.  Assigned posts are to be manned as directed.  Students who are not assigned to specific programs, as approved by staff and parents, are not allowed on school property after the regular school day, 3:10 p.m., unless
attending spectator activities or other events open to the public.  Students who are cited for trespassing will be referred to the principal and students assigned to the 21st Century program will be handled by that staff.  It was also noted that efforts were coordinated with the local law enforcement officials about the possibility of their providing on-site security by physically having a presence in (walking through) the building at certain times which have been considered to be critical to maintaining a
safe and secure setting.

29.  On the motion of Mrs. Griffin, seconded by Mrs. Marshall, voted  unanimously to go into executive session to discuss issues relating to the follow subjects:  a) student, b) real estate and c) personnel.

30.  On the motion of Mrs. Griffin, seconded by Mr. Smith, voted unanimously to return to regular session.

31.  The school facility incident was reported to local law enforcement authorities and appropriate action was administered.

32.   The request submitted to have the old school site on Tyler Street revisited for possible construction of the proposed school was made.  Awaiting response.

33.  Concurred with the superintendent's personnel restructuring plan and the recommended input as suggested by board members, to include binding
personnel recruitment as briefed.  Also received litigation update on pending administrative action.

34.   On the motion of Mrs. Griffin, seconded by Mr. Smith, voted unanimously for Mr. Smith and Mrs. Griffin to attend GSBA sponsored training
at Lake Blacksheer on February 14.

35.  On the motion of Mrs. Griffin, seconded by Mrs. Marshall, voted unanimously for the board to send representatives to the NSBA, GSBA and
Regional education conferences in 2007.

36.  On the motion of Mrs. Griffin, seconded by Mr. Smith, voted unanimously to hold regular school board meetings on the second Tuesday of each month
during calendar year 2007 and to hold work sessions at 6:00 p.m each Monday before the regular board meeting.

37.  On the motion of Mrs. Griffin,  seconded by Mrs. Willis, voted unanimously to adjourn.  The next work session is scheduled for Monday,
February 12 at 6:00 p.m.  The next regular meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, February 13, 2007 at 6:00 p.m. in the central office located at 405 West Tyler Street.  The next education committee is scheduled to meet March 12, 2007 at 5:00 p.m in the central office conference room.  The public and school board members are encouraged to attend.

_________________________________________
Robert W. Patrick
Superintendent

Top of the Page

February

The Talbot County Board of Education met in a Regular Session on February 13, 2007 at 6:00 p. m. with the following members present:   Mrs. Sally
Ferguson (D-1), Mr. Albert Smith (5),  Mrs. Marilyn Griffin (D-4), Mrs. Muriel Marshall (D-2) and Mrs. Shamona Willis (D-3).

1. Meeting called to order by Chairperson, Mrs. Sally Ferguson.

2.  Moment of silence requested by Chairperson, Mrs. Sally Ferguson.

3.  The Pledge of Allegiance led by Superintendent Robert W. Patrick.

4.  On the motion of Mrs. Griffin, seconded by Mr. Smith, voted unanimously to approve the February 13, 2007 meeting agenda.

5.  On the motion of Mrs. Griffin, seconded by Mr. Smith, voted  to approve the January 9, 2007 regular meeting minutes with recommended correction
(January 9, 2007 meeting minutes, item 6 approved by a vote of 4-1, Mrs. Marshall abstained).

6.  School site update:  Architects Greg Smith and Joseph Stuckey informed the board that some variances from the school-site approval criteria can be
potentially mitigated in some instances when sufficient justification is provided.  Nevertheless, it was advised that processing such a request could potentially be lengthy, up to a year or more in some instances.

7. Curriculum and Instruction Update:  Assistant Superintendent Tannette Saunders briefed the  board on the Focused Monitoring Visit Report
corrective action plan (CAP).   As a result of the Focused Monitoring Visit Report findings, the CAP response addressed the
need for professional development.   Professional development will be offered to the staff in the area of differentiated instruction on February 24 and March 3, in the area of co-teaching on February 28 (GADOE) and on March 14 (RESA).   In the area of mathematics (investigations and intervention,  k-12), training is
scheduled for March 5-6.

8. Early Reading First (ERF) Update (Mr. David Davidson, Project Coordinator), Mrs. Saunders briefed the board on the implementation status of
ERF.  She announced that Mr. Davidson had completed his staff except for one position, and it will be filled shortly.  Data gathered from students during
the initial enrollment phase validated the need identified in the grant proposal.

9.  Principal/Design/School Improvement Team/School Council Update:  Principal Tymes informed the board about the February 6 Spot-light Session. 
He said it was  well attended and productive. Parents and teachers met and discussed student performance and behavior.  Concerns were addressed and appeals were made for parental support with students in both areas. 
The study skills classes are being monitored daily and appear to be getting results.  "Students appear to be focused and engaged and the teachers are actively teaching," according to Principal Tymes.  Further, it was briefed that scheduling changes are currently in progress in an effort to offer students taking the GHSGT the first time similar pro-active learning opportunities.  Principal Tymes indicated that he was pleased with the progress he had observed in the study skills classes thus far.
 In concluding, he announced that the basketball teams were very successful in the middle and high school this year. Both middle school teams did well in the playoffs and the varsity teams are scheduled to play in Greenville tomorrow night for a chance to go to the the state tournament, the girls team play at 7:00 p.m. and the boys play at 8:30 p.m.  The cheerleaders have been equally successful.  It appears as if their cheers have made a significant difference in many close games.  Your support of the basketball teams and the cheerleaders is highly encouraged during the remainder of the season. 
The Annual Black History Program is scheduled for 1:30 on Friday, February 16 in the high school gymnasium.  Reverend Franklin Holmes will be the keynote speaker.  The public is welcomed and encouraged to attend.

10.  School Counsel Update:  Mrs. Karen Freeman informed the board about a joint project with Fort Valley State University.  The project is three-fold
according to Mrs. Freeman.  It will focus on proactive monitoring through the use of power point presentations, video presentations and picture posters.  The objective of the program is to increase self-esteem and confidence by displaying positive images of former students in a college setting and local students in the school setting.   The board thought it was an excellent project.

11.  Reading First (RF) Update:  Mrs. Gladys Doctrie, education support specialist (ESS)/instructional leader, provided an update to the board on
the current status of RF.  Mrs. Doctrie informed the board that the February 6 visit conducted by the Regional Reading First Consultant, Ms. Trenna D. Trice, was very favorable.   "The overall goal of the Reading First program is to improve student achievement in the area of reading and your teachers under the careful
guidance of the literacy coach, Ms. Gladys Doctrie, who has done an outstanding job.  Reading First has been significant in helping to raise the bar in reading education at Central Elementary School as evidenced by your assessment data," Ms. Trice wrote.  Testimony such as this confirms what many teachers, parents and outside observers continue to say about the effectiveness of the Reading First program under Ms. Doctrie's leadership.  "All classes and teachers did very well on the
recent DIBELS assessment,  and one of my classes was "off the chain,"  she concluded.

12.  Family Connection Partnership (FCP) Update:  Dorothy Bass, Director, the superintendent briefed the board on the huge success of the FCP last
month.  On Monday, January 15, FCP took 15 students and adults to the Annual MLK Unity Breakfast.  Finally, he stated that the next FCP regular meeting
scheduled for Wednesday, February 21 at 11:30 a.m.  has been changed due to a conflict with a planed FCP event at the State Capitol in Atlanta.  The
public will be advised of the change and the make up date.

13.  Alternative/Charter School Update:  Mr. Jerome C. Harris, Director,  briefed the board on the status of the school's enrollment.  He indicated
that his enrollment has reached its limit and that students are now on a waiting list.  To help correct the situation, school leadership will be
instructed to actively place increased emphasis on monitoring student behavior continuously in an effort to deter inappropriate behavior before
school codes are violated.  This concern was duly noted.  On Thursday, February 15 our students will put on a Black History program.  It will be
done by the students.  We strongly encourage everyone to come out and join us.

14.  The 21st Century After School Program.  Mrs. Cynthia Epps and Mrs. Brenda Walker, Site Managers.  Mrs. Epps briefed the board on the operation
of the program.  It was announced that approximately 150 students are attending the program regularly and appear to be doing great.  The
difference observed in students since the program's inception is duly noted, and it is definitely favorable. "On January 27, the program took a field
trip to the Fernbank Museum in Atlanta.  The trip served as another wonderful learning experience for our students," according to Mrs. Epps.

15.  Cooperative Extension Service/4-H Program Update:  Mrs. Helen Williams, Director, informed the board that it was time for the students to start
preparing for the upcoming North West District Project Achievement Program schedule for March 2 at Rock Eagle in Eatonton. 
"We have 13 junior and senior participants.  They will be participating in areas such as food safety, public speaking, performing arts, food preparation and human development.  It is also time for our youth to attend camp in June, ranging  from:  Sr. Camp at  Burton 4-H Facility at Tybee Island at a cost of $275.00
each, Jr. Camp Fulton 4-H facility, in Atlanta at a cost of $250.00 each, Cloverleaf Camp Rock Eagle Facility, in Eatonton at $200.00 each and Sprout
Camp John Hope at Marshville at $200.00 each.   Each camp offers our students a wonderful and rewarding learning experience.  Please consider making a
contribution to help defray the cost of sending our students to one of these camps.  We will be offering our "Living Well with Diabetes program" and our
"Walk Across Talbot" program again this year. Please contact us at extension 665-3230 if you would like to sign up to participate.

16.  Head Start Program Update:  Mr. Jack Wallace, Program Director, informed the board that he and his staff were very pleased with the
cooperation and training they are having with Mr. Davidson in getting the Early Reading First (ERF) program implemented.  He also briefed the board on
the requirement Head Start has for increasing the security of the building and areas in which they offer educational services to children.  The board will consider the request to install a similar security system throughout the building after coordinating with the other facility users.

17.  On the motion of Mrs. Griffin, seconded by Mr. Smith, voted unanimously to approve the recommendation for Head Start to purchase and install the
proposed security system in the identified area at no cost to the school system.

18.  School/Educational-Relevant Website Update:
  1)
www.ed.gov,
  2) 
www.gadoe.org  or  www.gadoe.k12.ga.us
  3)
reportcards@gppf.org
  4)
www.gaschoolcouncil.org,
  5)
www.gsba.com
  6)  www.gssanet.org
  7) www.gael.org
  8) www.gacharters.org
  9) www.georgiafamilyconnection.org
 10) www.georgiapta.org
 11)
http://www.gsbaepolicy.org/
 12)  www.gahsc.org
 13) www.gapsc.org
 14) www.georgialearns.com
 15) www.ghsa.net
 16) www.georgiaencyclopedia.com
 17) www.dch.state.ga.us
 18) www.opb.state.ga.us
 19) www.djj.state.ga.us
 20) www.pageinc.org
 21) www.gae.org
 22) www.evenstart.org
 23) www.pta.org
 24) www.famlit.org
 25) www.fcp.org
 26) www.communityplanning.org
 27) www.census.gov
 28) www.georgiapie.org
 29) www.talbotccsb97
 30) www.talbot.k12.ga.us
 31)  www.nasdtec.org
 32) www.gaosa.org 
 33) www.peachcare.org
 34) www.ready.org
 35)  gema.state.ga.us
 36)  gpee.org
 37)  vluonline.org
 38)  pbs.org.curriculum.audit@pdkintl.org
 39)  ed.gov/21stcclc
 40)  afterschool.gov
 41)  coveringkids.us
 42)  gacte.org
 43)  dtae.org
 44)  gvtc.org
 45)  nea.org/neatoday
 46)  georgiatrend.com
 47)  georgiastandards.org
 48)  ganet.org/gbi 
 49) http://www.openrecords.org/records/sexual_offenders/georgia/

 50) GeorgiaEducation.org
 51)  georgiapta.org
 52)  aasa.org
 53)  edschools.org/reports-leaders, gafcp.org
 54)  naeyc.org/about/positions.asp
 55)  futureofchildren.org
 56)  csos.jhu.edu/p2000/sixtypes.htm, http://nces.ed.gov/ecls
 57)  srcd.org/documents/publications/SPR/spr17-1.pdf
NOTE-1:  Make a call and Report/Stop the Violence in School:  1-877-SAY-STOP
NOTE-2: Item 49 above is the Sexual offenders Link.  Updated twice daily.
NOTE 3:  Georgia Emergency Management Agency School Safety Unit -- 1-800-TRY-GEMA


19.  On the motion of Mrs. Griffin, seconded by Mr. Smith, voted unanimously to approve the food service financial report.

20.  Partners-In-Education (PIE) Update:  Ms. Susan Schlader, Chairperson, informed the board that the school system hosted the 3rd District Food
Service Organization annual meeting on Tuesday January 23.  It was the first time the school system had ever hosted the event.  Over 200 people attended.  They were very impressed with everything.
 We received many compliments on the building, the food and the hospitality.  Subsequent to that meeting, we were informed that our Food Service Manager, Mrs. Thelma Blount, was elected to serve as the next president-elect for the district.  We are very proud of her and of this well-deserved honor.  In addition, three of our staff members placed in the culinary arts contest. 
Thirteen students attended the job shadowing training session at the Department of Labor in Columbus on Friday, February 9.  They had a very wonderful and productive time.  "The Department's staff was very helpful and friendly to everyone.  I had such a good time until I ended up staying the entire time
although I had planned to stay just a short while," she stated.  Mrs. Minnie Smith and Mrs. Karen Freeman also accompanied the students on the job shadowing trip.  On February 23 PIE will be sponsoring a Career Day (middle and high) school and Hobby Day (elementary school).  Last year this event was a success.  We
expect similar success this year.  This event is co-sponsored with our school partners (the local Chamber of Commerce and Three Rivers AHEC).  We
solicit faculty and staff support for this event.

21.  On the motion of Mr. Smith, seconded by Mrs. Willis, voted unanimously to approve the school system financial report with the recommended 
correction.


22.  On the motion of Mrs. Marshall, seconded by Mrs. Willis, voted unanimously to approve the recommended RFPs (roofing, vents, hot water
heaters, alarm/security system,  instrument repair, band door and carpet) and payment of purchase orders, bills, etc.

23.  On the motion of Mr. Smith, seconded by Mrs. Marshall, voted unanimously to approve the following fundraiser requests:

Date Club/Organization Event/Facility
02/15-27/07 Band Boosters  
03/24/07 Band Boosters  
03/30-31/07 Delta Sigma Theta Gymnasium

24.  On the motion of Mrs. Griffin, seconded by Mrs. Marshall, voted unanimously to approve the following facility requests:

Date Club/Organization Event/Facility
04/24/07 Partners in Education Cafeteria
06/16/07 Delta Sigma Theta Cafeteria

NOTE-1:  The following safety/security procedures for ensuring appropriate crowd control and acceptable entrance/exit routes in the parking areas when
hosting school activities in the gymnasium:
     a.  Ensure the authorized building (gymnasium) State Fire Code capacity limitation is observed and enforced.
     b.  Ensure law enforcement officials enforce posted policies about no  standing in the entrance/exit or walkways, and that spectators remain in  the bleachers and  behind the rails unless going to and from restrooms and the concession stand.
     c.  Ensure the assigned parking details keep an unobstructed entrance/exit sufficient to allow the free-flow of traffic to and from the
parking area at all times.  Double parking will not be allowed, and the student athletic field on the hill in back of the elementary school will be used for overflow parking.  Vehicles will be towed at the owner's expense.
      d.  Ensure assigned school staff/law enforcement officials effectively monitor gymnasium entrance/exit doors to prevent unauthorized entrance/exit, and to maintain an accurate count to make sure the building capacity limitation is observed and enforced.
     e.  Ensure signs are posted in the most visible areas to make people aware of policies to be observed in the gymnasium/facility.
     f.  Ensure policy violators are escorted from the premises.
     g.  Ensure the GHSA officials discontinue the game anytime it appears to be getting out of control and may potentially excite the crowd toward unacceptable behavior.
NOTE-2:  Personnel with authorized access to the Central Elementary/High School facility will comply with the following:
      a.  Safe guard their security access code when issued prohibited from sharing their security access code with anyone for any reason at any time.
      b.   Coordinate with the school system security monitor, Sandy Mitchell, in advance of entering the Central Elementary/High School
facility at all times regardless of having an access code and authority to enter the facility.  The system is supervisory-monitored and controlled and will be activated when procedures are violated.  Local law enforcement authorities are notified whenever there is a violation.  The system will also activate when doors are not properly closed.
     d.  It is considered trespassing whenever entrance is made into the building without advance coordination with the responsible grade level principal and the school system security monitor.  Staff members with keys, including those who have been assigned personal access codes, are required to follow this procedure (including principals and central office administrators), too. Violators will be documented.
      e.  It is prohibited to hang items from any classroom ceiling (signs, banners, ornaments, etc).  Doing so will automatically set the alarm system
 off since it is already enabled and in the ready mode.  Principal will monitor this safety concern closely.

25.  On the motion of Mrs. Griffin, seconded by Mrs. Marshall, voted unanimously to approve the following trip requests:

Date Club/Organization Destination
02/15/07 Upward Bound Manchester
02/22/07 FBLA Atlanta
02/23/07 Pre-K Columbus
02/27/07 Agriculture Dept. Fort Valley
03/02/07 Cooperative Extension Service Rock Eagle
03/03/07 Middle School Marion Co.
03/09/07 CEHS Literary Club Americus
04/14/07 Cooperative Extension Service Douglas

Note 1: Pep bus authorized to accompany each basketball and football game on a reimbursable basis.
Note 2:  A transportation fee will be charged to organizations not sponsored by the Talbot County Board of Education.  The charge for using a
school bus for non-system related activities is $3.50 per mile, including liability (old policy in effect pending board approval).  This fee is to defray gas and maintenance costs.  In addition, the driver must be a school employee (permanent or substitute bus driver).  The driver's fee will be the responsibility of the requesting organization, and is calculated by the driver's hourly rate times the number of hours required to complete the trip when non-certified school employee drivers are used.   Non-certified
school bus drivers will be paid time and a half whenever they take a trip which requires them to work in excess of 40 hours per week, regular time plus driving time.   Plus, all overtime work requests must be approved in advance by the superintendent.
Note 3: Only approved trips will be considered for Alternative Education Program (AEP) vehicle assets.  Coordination with the AEP Director is required in advance when AEP vehicle assets are desired.  Note 2 applies with regular school vehicle assets.
Note 4: AEP vehicle assets will not be used to take regular students to and from home on regular bus routes.  However, when approved in advance, such vehicle assets may be used for 1) alternative education activities, 2) supplemental academic programs, 3) extra -curricular activities, 4) Family Connection Partnership (FCP) activities, 5) and approved community activities.
Note 5:   Dual employees are prohibited from working in excess of 40 hours in any given week without prior written approval from the superintendent.
Furthermore, any time an employee works in excess of 40 hours, he/she will be paid time and a half overtime based on their hourly rate in accordance
with the Fair Labor Standards Act.   Plus, overtime requests are required to be in writing and be received and approved in advance by the superintendent.

26.  Continued emphasis was again placed on compliance with OCGA 60-5-1-06 (Employee Work Day), OCGA 20-2-210 (Annual Performance Evaluations) Reading
First and Georgia's assurances, personal liability for on campus damages and fair, firm and consistent enforcement of policy.

27.  Safety.  Be safety conscious and keep safety first.  Zero tolerance will be enforced on inappropriate behavior, including the loitering, visitors to school and visitors policy (OGGA 20-2-1180, TCSS Policy KM and KM-R) will be emphasized throughout the school year.  Safety and security requires everyone's support and watchfulness at all times.  School leadership is fully aware of the need for ensuring the school setting is safe, secure and conducive to learning.  Increased  administrator visibility is required in the cafeteria at lunch time and in the hallways at the change of classes is reemphasized.  Similar supervisory emphasis is expected for the 21st Century After School Program, the Upward Bound Program and the DHR Youth Initiative Program.

28.  Everyone is to be watchful and attentive to potential incidents.  Questionable behavior is to be reported and checked.  Assigned posts are to be manned as directed.  Students who are not assigned to specific programs, as approved by staff and parents, are not allowed on school property after the regular school day, 3:10 p.m., unless
attending spectator activities or other events open to the public.  Students who are cited for trespassing will be referred to the principal and students assigned to the 21st Century program will be handled by that staff.  It was also noted that efforts were coordinated with the local law enforcement officials about the possibility of their providing on-site security by physically having a presence in (walking through) the building at certain times which have been considered to be critical to maintaining a
safe and secure setting.

29.  On the motion of Mr. Smith, seconded by Mrs. Willis, voted unanimously to go into executive session to discuss issues relating to the following
subjects:  a) real estate and b) personnel.

30.  On the motion of Mrs. Griffin, seconded by Mr. Smith, voted unanimously to return to regular session.

31.  Consideration on the school site location is ongoing.

32.  On the motion of Mr. Smith, seconded by Mrs. Griffin, voted unanimously to approve the recommended disapproval of Mr. Michael Graybill's resignation
request.

33.  On the motion of Mrs. Griffin, seconded by Mr. Smith, voted unanimously to approve the recommendation to hire the following individuals:  Susan
Michele Campbell, Rodney Hester, Hubert Hogan, Arthur Mahone, Rosetta Reeves, Vernecia Derico, Elsa Fedde, Norma Hood, Natasha Guadalupe, Angela
Thomas, Erica Chaney, Mary Hunt and Teria McCrary.

34.  On the motion of Mrs. Griffin,  seconded by Mrs. Willis, voted unanimously to adjourn.  The next educational committee meeting is scheduled
for Monday, March 12 at 5:00 p.m. in the high school computer lab and the next work session is scheduled for Monday, March 12 at
6:00 p.m. at the same location.  The next regular meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, March 13, 2007 at 6:00 p.m. in the central office located at 405
West Tyler Street.   The school leaderhsip team is expected to attend each meeting.  The public  is encouraged to attend each meeting, too.

Robert W. Patrick
Superintendent

Top of the Page

March


April

The Talbot County Board of Education met in a Regular Session on Tuesday, April 10, 2007 at 6:00 p. m. with the following members present:  Mrs. Sally
Ferguson (D-1), Mr. Albert Smith (5),  Mrs. Marilyn Griffin (D-4), Mrs. Muriel Marshall (D-2) and Mrs. Shamona Willis (D-3).

1. Meeting called to order by Chairperson, Mrs. Sally Ferguson.

2.  Moment of silence requested by Chairperson, Mrs. Sally Ferguson.

3.  The Pledge of Allegiance led by Superintendent Robert W. Patrick.

4.  On the motion of Mr. Smith, seconded by Mrs. Griffin, voted unanimously to approve the  April 10, 2007 meeting agenda.

5.  On the motion of Mrs. Marshall, seconded by Mrs. Willis, voted unanimously to approve the March 13, 2007 regular meeting minutes with
corrections as noted.

6.  Recognition.  The food service director and staff, at both sites, received a perfect rating on the March 13, 2007 Food Service Establishment
Inspection Report.  Congratulations for a job well done.

7.  Announcements:
a) The Teacher of The Year/Support Person of The Year Banquet is scheduled for Tuesday, April 24 in the school cafeteria.  The staff and community are
encouraged to come out and support this recognition banquet.
b)  The school board is hosting a retreat at the Mountain View Conference Center in Pine Mountain from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. on April 21.   Selected
individuals among community and school stakeholders have been invited.   The occasion will focus on school-wide improvements, setting goals and policies, and identifying concerns which potentially impact the school operation.

7a.   Curriculum and Instruction Update:  It was noted that CRCT and GHSGT were recently administered.  Students and staff were well-prepared and are
eagerly awaiting the results.  Students whose scores exceed the standard will be recognized again this year.  Further, it was stated that the school calendar should be student- focused.  Consideration for the preparation and administration of tests should schedule so as to allow students the greatest opportunity to excel.  In addition, the school scheduled should ensure the month of June is reserved for the summer food service program.  Therefore, the school calendar should reflect that school is out and that the last post-planning day is scheduled to occur before 1 June each year.

8.  The Cooperative Extension Service/4-H Program Update:  Mrs. Helen Williams, Director, briefed the board.  "Spring is officially here and we
are on the run planning and scheduling programs for the spring and summer," she stated.  We have kicked off the Walk-Across-Talbot
Wellness program and are waiting for the return on registration from many of  the people who plan to participate in these programs again this year.  On
Saturday, April 14, Mrs. C. Trice and other staff members and volunteers will accompany 15 students to Douglas County to participate in the
Cloverleaf District Project Achievement(DPA).  DPA is a program which allows students to participate in various competitive activities and to experience
successful learning experiences.  It is a wonderful program and we are delighted to have our young people participate.  Further, I would like to
thank the individuals who contributed and generously sponsored 20 of our young people who will be attending summer camp this year.  These camp
experiences offers our youth excellent learning opportunities.  We are still accepting contributions toward sponsoring more children.  Contact the
Cooperative extension office at extension 665-3230 if you would like to help sponsor a child.  In addition, our "Living Well with Diabetes" workshop
series meets monthly at the Extension Office.  You are encouraged to come join us.  Research shows that the same nutritional information that supports
better diabetes management will also help us to better manage all chronic diseases.  The program meets the first Wednesday on each month.  Come and
join us.

9.  21st Century After-School Program Update:  Mrs. Dorothy Bass, on behalf of  Mrs. Cynthia Epps and Mrs. Brenda Walker, Site-Managers, provided the
board with an update on the program.  In addition, she briefed the board on the programs summer school initiative which will offer students the change
to remediate, recover and take enrichment classes this summer.  However, parents will have to register their child or children and will also have to
ensure that they attend classes regularly.  The program will offer students these opportunities for 20 days this summer, from June 4 through June 29. 
In addition to the course work in the classrooms, students will also be offered the opportunity to take field trips on a recommended-basis.  For
additional information on the 21st Century Program, contact Mrs. Cynthia Epps or Mrs. Brenda Walker.

10 Early Reading First (ERF) Update:  Mrs. Dorothy Bass, presenting on behalf of Mr. David Davidson, ERF Project Coordinator, briefed the board on
the implementation status of ERF.  She told the board that the program was progressing very well and that the program has just completed it first Teacher Academy.  The teacher academy was held from March 18-March 22 at the Mountain View Conference Center at Pine Mountain. 
Twenty six people plus eight guests were in attendance.  The program provided participants a rich and rewarding learning experience. 
Participants were from the various additive educational programs housed in the county:  Head Start, Even Start, Pre-K, TAPS and Early Reading First.  The participants were pleased with the outcome and are eager to get to work, teaching our students the basis of learning on or above grade level through extensive use of print-rich materials and effective teaching strategies.

11.  Family Connection Partnership (FCP) Update:  Dorothy Bass, Director, briefed the board on the FCP program.   Some of its ongoing programs are
inclusive of community-wide literacy needs. It was also announced that the Leadership Talbot County training is ongoing and is held as scheduled on the
second Thursday of each month at 6:00 p.m. in the FCP Building.  She also stated that FCP recently administered the SAT at the school site and that
two student from Central were administered the their SAT on-site.  After hearing the discussion on the need for supporting students with course
recovery, Mrs. Bass agreed to ensure that parents are notified about all of  the course offerings students can take advantage of in the 21st Century
Program this summer.  Finally, she stated that the next FCP regular meeting will  is scheduled for Wednesday, April 18 at 11:30 a.m.  The public is
invited to attend.

12.   Even Start Program Update: Dorothy Bass,  Mrs. Alice Johnson Director, informed the board that the program is progressing very well.   Enrollment
remains constant and a few vacancies still exists.    Request that persons who are interested in signing up for the program contact Mrs. Alice Johnson or Sharon Sutton at extension 665-8831.

13.  On the motion of Mrs. Griffin, seconded by Mr. Smith, voted unanimously to approve the food service financial report.

14.  On the motion of Mrs. Willis, seconded by Mrs. Griffin, voted unanimously to approve the school system financial report.

15.  On the motion of Mr. Smith, seconded by Mrs. Marshall, voted unanimously to approve the recommended RFPs:   1)  bleachers and  2)
visitors dress room and 3) retreat consultant/facilitator.

16.  On the motion of Mr. Smith, seconded by Mrs. Griffin, voted unanimously to approve the request for payment of purchase orders, bills, etc.

17.  On the motion of Mrs. Marshall, seconded by Mrs. Willis, voted unanimously to approve the following fundraiser:

Date Club/Organization Event/Facility
04/26-28/07 Derrick Byrd Gymnasium
 

18.  On the motion of Mr. Smith, seconded by Mrs. Griffin,  voted unanimously to approve the following facility requests:

Date Club/Organization Event/Facility
04/26-28/07 Derrick Byrd Gymnasium
 

NOTE-1:  The following safety/security procedures for ensuring appropriate crowd control and acceptable entrance/exit routes in the parking areas when
hosting school activities in the gymnasium:
     a.  Ensure the authorized building (gymnasium) State Fire Code capacity limitation is observed and enforced.
     b.  Ensure law enforcement officials enforce posted policies about no  standing in the entrance/exit or walkways, and that spectators remain in  the bleachers and  behind the rails unless going to and from restrooms and the concession stand.
     c.  Ensure the assigned parking details keep an unobstructed entrance/exit sufficient to allow the free-flow of traffic to and from the
parking area at all times.  Double parking will not be allowed, and the student athletic field on the hill in back of the elementary school will be used for overflow parking.  Vehicles will be towed at the owner's expense.
      d.  Ensure assigned school staff/law enforcement officials effectively monitor gymnasium entrance/exit doors to prevent unauthorized entrance/exit, and to maintain an accurate count to make sure the building capacity limitation is observed and enforced.
     e.  Ensure signs are posted in the most visible areas to make people aware of policies to be observed in the gymnasium/facility.
     f.  Ensure policy violators are escorted from the premises.
     g.  Ensure the GHSA officials discontinue the game anytime it appears to be getting out of control and may potentially excite the crowd toward unacceptable behavior.
NOTE-2:  Personnel with authorized access to the Central Elementary/High School facility will comply with the following:
      a.  Safe guard their security access code when issued prohibited from sharing their security access code with anyone for any reason at any time.
      b.   Coordinate with the school system security monitor, Sandy Mitchell, in advance of entering the Central Elementary/High School
facility at all times regardless of having an access code and authority to enter the facility.  The system is supervisory-monitored and controlled and will be activated when procedures are violated.  Local law enforcement authorities are notified whenever there is a violation.  The system will also activate when doors are not properly closed.
     d.  It is considered trespassing whenever entrance is made into the building without advance coordination with the responsible grade level principal and the school system security monitor.  Staff members with keys, including those who have been assigned personal access codes, are required to follow this procedure (including principals and central office administrators), too. Violators will be documented.
      e.  It is prohibited to hang items from any classroom ceiling (signs, banners, ornaments, etc).  Doing so will automatically set the alarm system
 off since it is already enabled and in the ready mode.  Principal will monitor this safety concern closely.

19.  On the motion of Mrs. Griffin, seconded by Mr. Smith, voted unanimously to approve the following trip requests:

Date Club/Organization Destination
4/14/07 DHR Atlanta
4/17/07 DHR Columbus
4/20/07 Pre-K Columbus
5/24/07 JROTC Fort Benning

Note 1: Pep bus authorized to accompany each basketball and football game on a reimbursable basis.
Note 2:  A transportation fee will be charged to organizations not sponsored by the Talbot County Board of Education.  The charge for using a
school bus for non-system related activities is $3.50 per mile, including liability (old policy in effect pending board approval).  This fee is to defray gas and maintenance costs.  In addition, the driver must be a school employee (permanent or substitute bus driver).  The driver's fee will be the responsibility of the requesting organization, and is calculated by the driver's hourly rate times the number of hours required to complete the trip when non-certified school employee drivers are used.   Non-certified
school bus drivers will be paid time and a half whenever they take a trip which requires them to work in excess of 40 hours per week, regular time plus driving time.   Plus, all overtime work requests must be approved in advance by the superintendent.
Note 3: Only approved trips will be considered for Alternative Education Program (AEP) vehicle assets.  Coordination with the AEP Director is required in advance when AEP vehicle assets are desired.  Note 2 applies with regular school vehicle assets.
Note 4: AEP vehicle assets will not be used to take regular students to and from home on regular bus routes.  However, when approved in advance, such vehicle assets may be used for 1) alternative education activities, 2) supplemental academic programs, 3) extra -curricular activities, 4) Family Connection Partnership (FCP) activities, 5) and approved community activities.
Note 5:   Dual employees are prohibited from working in excess of 40 hours in any given week without prior written approval from the superintendent.
Furthermore, any time an employee works in excess of 40 hours, he/she will be paid time and a half overtime based on their hourly rate in accordance
with the Fair Labor Standards Act.   Plus, overtime requests are required to be in writing and be received and approved in advance by the superintendent.

20.  Continued emphasis was again placed on compliance with OCGA 60-5-1-06 (Employee Work Day), OCGA 20-2-210 (Annual Performance Evaluations) Reading
First and Georgia's assurances, personal liability for on campus damages and fair, firm and consistent enforcement of policy.

21.  Safety.  Be safety conscious and keep safety first.  Zero tolerance will be enforced on inappropriate behavior, including the loitering, visitors to school and visitors policy (OGGA 20-2-1180, TCSS Policy KM and KM-R) will be emphasized throughout the school year.  Safety and security requires everyone's support and watchfulness at all times.  School leadership is fully aware of the need for ensuring the school setting is safe, secure and conducive to learning.  Increased  administrator visibility is required in the cafeteria at lunch time and in the hallways at the change of classes is reemphasized.  Similar supervisory emphasis is expected for the 21st Century After School Program, the Upward Bound Program and the DHR Youth Initiative Program.

22.  Everyone is to be watchful and attentive to potential incidents.  Questionable behavior is to be reported and checked.  Assigned posts are to be manned as directed.  Students who are not assigned to specific programs, as approved by staff and parents, are not allowed on school property after the regular school day, 3:10 p.m., unless
attending spectator activities or other events open to the public.  Students who are cited for trespassing will be referred to the principal and students assigned to the 21st Century program will be handled by that staff.  It was also noted that efforts were coordinated with the local law enforcement officials about the possibility of their providing on-site security by physically having a presence in (walking through) the building at certain times which have been considered to be critical to maintaining a safe and secure setting.

23.  On the motion on Mr. Smith, seconded by Mrs. Willis, voted unanimously to approve the following personnel actions as discussed:   a) hire Sarah
Street, Bernard Young, Kelvin Williams, Karen Sumpter, Stevens Chambers, Michael Graybill and Willie Y. Mathews as staff members for school year 2007-08, b) notify individuals not recommended for contract renewal, including the revocation of contract offers to Lonnie Freeman and Susan Campbell pending further consideration and c) finalize the other recommended administrative actions, including a termination, a one month suspension without pay and a documented counseling (attachments withdrawn).

NOTE 1:  Action is pending until July 1, 2007 on TAPP applicants.

24.  On the motion of Mr. Smith, seconded by Mrs. Willis, voted unanimously to approve the proposed school calendar with recommended changes as
discussed, giving increased time for test preparation and administration top priority.

25.  On the motion of Mrs. Griffin,  seconded by Mrs. Willis, voted unanimously to adjourn.  The next work session is schedule for Monday, May 7
at 6:00 p.m.  The next regular meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, May 8, at 6:00 p.m. in the central office located at 405 West Tyler Street. The public
is encouraged to attend.

Robert W. Patrick
Superintendent
Top of the Page

May

The Talbot County Board of Education met in a Regular Session on Tuesday, May 8, 2007 at 6:00 p. m. with the following members present:  Mrs. Sally
Ferguson (D-1), Mr. Albert Smith (D-5),  Mrs.Marilyn Griffin (D-4) and Mrs. Shamona Willis (D-3).  Approved absence:  Mrs. Muriel Marshall (D-2).

1. Meeting called to order by Chairperson, Mrs. Sally Ferguson.

2.  Moment of silence requested by Chairperson, Mrs. Sally Ferguson.

3.  The Pledge of Allegiance led by Superintendent Robert W. Patrick.
 
4.  On the motion of Mrs. Griffin, seconded by Mrs. Willis, voted unanimously to approve the  May 8, 2007 meeting agenda.
 
5.  On the motion of Mrs. Griffin, seconded by Mrs. Willis, voted unanimously to approve the April 10, 2007 regular meeting minutes with
corrections as noted.

6.  Recognition: a)  Mr. Michael DeBruce and Mrs. Thelma Blount were selected as the Teacher of The Year/Support Staff Person of The Year for
2006-07, respectively; b) Ladarius Williams and T'Keya Fowler participated in the 2007 Safety Belt Poster/PSA/Essay Contest Competition.  They won 1st
place in their respective categories; c) Misha Copeland, Courtney Rankin, Alisha Copeland, Adrian Ford, Cierra Green, Darius Hamler, Nedra Heath, Jeffery Key, Renee Strickland and Kevin Willis excelled on the GHSGT.  Congratulations to each of you for an outstanding performance in the categories for which you were recognized.  Keep up the great  work!

7.  Announcements: a)  CEHS Annual Band Appreciation Awards Banquet, Tuesday, May 15 at 7:00 p.m.,  b) The kindergarten graduation is scheduled for Tuesday, May 22 at 6:00 p.m., c) Baccalaureate program is scheduled for Sunday. May 27 at 10:00 a.m., d) the middle school graduation is scheduled for Tuesday, May 29 at 6:00 p.m., e) awards and honors day is scheduled for  Wednesday, May 30 at 9:00 a.m. and f) commencement is scheduled for Saturday, June 2 at 10:00 am.

8.   Standards, Assessments and Improvement Update:  Assistant Supt. Tannette Saunders briefed the board on upcoming school improvement requirements and introduced other presenters.

9.  On the motion of Mrs Griffin., seconded by Mr. Smith, voted unanimously to approve the recommended Consolidated Federal Grant application ( Title I, Part A; Title II, A:  Improving Teachers Quality; Title IV, Part A 1, SDFS; Title V-A, Innovative Programs, Title VI-B, Rural and Low Income; CTAE Programs:  CTAE -Ag Extended Day, CTAE - Apprenticeship, Vocational 85% Grants, Vocational 85% Grants - Professional Development; Special Ed - IDEA  Flow Through; Special Ed - IDEA Pre-school; State Pre-School).

10.  Principal  Edward Tymes provided the high school update.  He informed the board about the status of school improvements programs and student  activities.  He also presented a proposal for on-site staff development in mathematics and science for the summer July 9-11,  and stated that the school improvement restructuring plan was approved as written.  The COMPASS test is being administered and will be completed tomorrow.  It will be used in selecting CETA and post-secondary options participants.   He further briefed that the revision efforts on the school safety/hazard response plan are ongoing.  Input from local agencies will be gathered for inclusion.  Revisions are required every two years, and must be coordinated with GEMA. 
Two students from the girls track team participated in the state track meet last week, and four students from the boys track team are to represent Central in the boys state meet this weekend.  The girls track team was coached by Robert Jones and Gloria Ramsey and the boys track team is coached by Tony Lamar and Lonnie Freeman.  We congratulate them on their successful efforts!

11.  On the motion of Mrs. Griffin, seconded by Mr. Smith, voted unanimously to approve the summer staff development proposal for middle- and high school mathematics and science teachers.

12.  Middle School Update.  Assistant Kenneth Bonaparte briefed the board on the middle school graduation and the ongoing efforts to prepare students for the elementary and high school graduations.  He also informed the board about the CRCT results.  He reemphasized the urgent need for meaningful and measurable learning to take place.  "Teachers will be certified in the assigned class content area and will be monitored in addressing this concern," he concluded.

13.  Reading First Coach/Instructional Leader (K-5):  Mrs. Gladys Doctrie updated the board on the upcoming state visit.  "We have been working hard with the PPVT and I believe we are ready," she stated. "I am proud of everyone and expect great results.  Open Court will be extended into grades four and five during the first block next school term.  Our 25 book
of  the month reading campaign is still going very well; we will be recognizing many students from each grade level on awards day. 
Thank you for your support," she told the board.

14.  Georgia's Choice Mathematics Coach:  Mrs. Barbara Dawson briefed the board on the status of the mathematics results.  "Much more improvement is expected and needed for us to reach our goal.  We are doing a lot of interesting things to keep our students and teachers motivated and focused.    Teachers, for example, have been made aware of a mathematics training schedule, and are encouraged to attend some of the sessions.  The purpose of the training is to learn different strategies and ways of presenting and introducing mathematics to our children.  We know where they are; now we need to learn how to get them to where we expect them to be,"  she stated.

15.  Charter/Alternative School Update:  Mr. Jerome C. Harris, Director, made a year-end summary of the charter/alternative school program.  He told the board that 33 students were enrolled in the charter/alternative school during the school year.  Of those 33 students, 18 were boys and 15 were girls.  Two students volunteered to enroll in the program;  the others were  assigned by tribunal action.  There was one fight this year; we are closing with 18 students enrolled, our authorized capacity.  Three students have been through the juvenile justice system; eleven (11) students served their tribunal consequences and returned to Central.  Approximately 300 students were served by the charter/alternative school in an in-school suspension (ISS) capacity, retained at our site without being suspended from school.  One hundred of the students served in ISS status were in grades K-5 and the other 200 ISS students served were in grades 6-12. 
The students held their first black history program at the charter/alternative school on Thursday, February 15.  They did an excellent job; the program was a student-focused
and student-directed activity.  Community comments were favorable. 
Two of our students took the GHSGT, one passing all five parts the first time and the other passing four of the five parts the first time.  We are currently waiting on the CRCT results.  We expect similar outcomes. 
It is time for us to renew our charter/alternative proposal.  We are in the process of  doing it now.  Due to the limited capacity currently authorized at 18 students, we have had to turn some students away.  As a result, we will be requesting to increase our authorized student capacity from 18 to 25 students, an increase of seven seats.  This will allow us to serve more
students, potentially keeping them out of the streets and in a supervised setting.  The recommendation to include expecting teen mothers in that proposed increased capacity is still in the discussion phase.  TCCAA will be hosting summer school, starting June 4 and ending June 29.  Students may contact extension 706-665-8098 or 706-665-2527 for information about
registration.  On Monday, May 2, Andrew Broy and Shannon Kimball, state department representatives, visited our school.  They were very impressed with what they saw.  Their comments were very favorable.
 
16.  The Cooperative Extension Service/4-H Program Update:  Mrs. Helen Williams, Director, briefed the board.  She informed them that Friday, May 11,  is the last day for turning in applications to participate in the Walk-Across-Talbot Wellness program; we are still waiting for the return of registration forms from many of the people who plan to participate in  the
program again this year.  "On Saturday, April 14, Ms. Cheryl Trice and other staff members and volunteers were to accompany 15 students to Douglas County to participate in the Cloverleaf District Project Achievement (DPA). However, it rained and only four students were able to go and participate.    DPA is a program which allows students to participate in various competitive activities and to experience successful learning experiences.  It is a wonderful program and we were delighted to have our four young people participate.  They won first place in each of the categories in which they participated.   Further, I would like to thank the individuals who contributed and generously helped to sponsor these youths.  They had a valuable experience and a wonderful learning opportunity.  We are still accepting contributions toward sponsoring more children.  Contact the Cooperative Extension Office at extension 665-3230 if you would like to help sponsor a child.  In addition, our "Living Well with Diabetes" workshop series meets monthly at the Extension Office.  You are encouraged
to come join us.  Research shows that the same nutritional information that supports better diabetes management will also help us to better manage all chronic diseases.  The program meets the first Wednesday of each month.  Come and join us.
Mrs. Lizzie K. Denson will be retiring from the Extension Agency on Thursday, May 30.  Invitations have been sent.  Please come and join us in sending Mrs. Denson away in a grand fashion for the many years she has supported and served the boys,  girls and others in the community," she stated.

17.  21st Century After-School Program Update:  Mrs. Cynthia Epps, co-Site-Manager along with Mrs. Brenda Walker, provided the board with an update on the program.  In addition, she briefed the board on the program's summer school initiative which will offer students the chance to remediate, recover and take enrichment classes this summer. She further briefed the board on program-sponsored trips that are planned in recognition of parent participation in required meetings, student behavior and attendance. We still have space for more enrollees.   However, parents will have to register their child or children and will also have to ensure that they attend classes regularly and follow the program rituals.  The program will
offer students these opportunities for 20 days this summer, from June 4 through June 29.  In addition to the course work in the classrooms, students will also be offered the opportunity to take field trips on a recommended-basis, as earned and based on criteria as assessed by the site-managers. 
We recently had two site visits/evaluations.  The comments were very favorable, indicating that our students are meeting many of the expected standards.  We would like to thank the board for their support, and we continue to solicit the support of our students and the community as well as other collaborative agencies (FCP, New Horizons, DFCS, etc).  For
additional information on the 21st Century Program, contact Mrs. Cynthia Epps or Mrs. Brenda Walker.

18.  Early Reading First (ERF) Update:  Mrs. Dorothy Bass, presenting on behalf of Mr. David Davidson, ERF Project Coordinator, briefed the board on the implementation status of ERF.  A federal inspector visited the site for a personal assessment of the implementation progress on Monday, May 7.  We were ahead of expectations and got very good comments.  The staff appeared to be working well together between and among the different agencies (Even Start, Head Start and Pre-Kindergarten).  Ongoing coordination and collaboration was attributed to the success.

19.  Family Connection Partnership (FCP) Update:  Dorothy Bass, Director, briefed the board on the FCP program.   Some of its ongoing programs are inclusive of community-wide literacy, family, health, and workforce development needs. On Saturday, May 5, the SAT was administered at Central.  Representative Lynmore James, District 135 of Talbot County, was the keynote speaker at the Eastern Stars Scholarship Luncheon.  His message addressed the need for our youth,  parents and educators to become more responsible for our actions and choices as we seek to close the educational gap which exists in our school systems, and  is frequently making media headlines.   She also announced that the Leadership Talbot County training is ongoing and is held as scheduled on the second Thursday of each month at 6:00 p.m. in the FCP Building.  The next meeting is scheduled for Thursday,  May 10.  She further announced that FCP is joining in with the county commissioners, the school system, DFCS and other agencies to participate in the Georgia Certified Work Ready Community initiative.  
Finally, she stated that the next FCP regular meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, May 16 at 11:30 a.m.  The public is invited to attend.

20.  On the motion of Mr. Smith, seconded by Mrs. Willis, voted unanimously to collaborate with county agencies in the Governor's Certified Ready to Work Community Initiative.

21.   Even Start Program Update: Dorothy Bass, for Mrs. Alice Johnson Director, informed the board that the program is progressing very well.   Enrollment remains constant and a few vacancies still exist. 
The staff recently attended a training session in Atlanta.  The training was very good and offered the staff an enriching learning experience.  Further, she stated that the ERF staff had
already stocked their book shelves with print rich material.  Print resources are now available for every child, and on his or her readiness level.  Request that persons who are interested in signing up for the program contact Mrs. Alice Johnson or Sharon Sutton at extension 665-8831.

22.  Head Start Program Update:  Mrs. Belva Dorsey, Head Start District Director, briefed the board on the increasing emphasis Head Start is now placing on helping families and children with their unmet health and nutritutional needs.   She further briefed that her agency will provide those identified service at no cost.  "Thank you for the opportunity to
present this initiative to you and for the support your staff has displayed in working with our people," she commented in finishing her remarks.

23.  On the motion of Mrs. Griffin, seconded by Mr. Smith, voted unanimously to approve the recommendation to participate with the proposed Head Start family health initiative.

24.  On the motion of Mrs. Griffin, seconded by Mr. Smith, voted unanimously to approve the food service financial report.

25.  On the motion of Mrs. Willis, seconded by Mr. Smith, voted unanimously to approve the recommendation for the school food service program to process an application to participate in the "HealthMPowers" grant initiative which empowers students to make healthy food choices.

26.  Partners In Education Update:  Susan Schlader, committee chairperson, announced that Central attended the annual PIE banquet at the Columbus Trade and Convention Center on Tuesday, May 1.  Central was awarded the silver achievement medal for meeting their goals and objectives for the year.
She also announced that two wonderful learning opportunities will be available for juniors during the summer.  One camp opportunity will be offered through Fort Valley State University from June 12-15 and the other camp opportunity will be offered through one of Central's partners, AHEC.  Both opportunities will be offered at no cost.  However, students are
requested to contact the principal or counselor soon to express their intent to register.  Friday, May 11, is scheduled for the Mother's Breakfast.  We have had excellent participation in the past.  Registration is very good this year, too.  The public is invited to participate.  Request that  you hurry and let us know if you will be participating with us in this event Friday.  The deadlines are rapidly approaching.

27.  On the motion of Mrs. Willis, seconded by Mrs. Griffin, voted unanimously to approve the school system financial report.

28.  On the motion of Mr. Smith, seconded by Mrs. Willis, voted  unanimously to approve the recommended RFPs:

29.  On the motion of Mr. Smith, seconded by Mrs. Willis, voted unanimously to approve the recommended five (5) Year Facility Plan.

30.  On the motion of Mr. Smith, seconded by Mrs. Griffin, voted unanimously to approve the request for payment of purchase orders, bills, etc.

31.  On the motion of Mr. Smith, seconded by Mrs. Willis, voted unanimously to approve the following fundraiser:

 Date                          Organization             Location
5/10-11/07                   Middle school            Gymnasium

32.  On the motion of Mrs. Willis, seconded by Mr. Smith,  voted unanimously to approve the following facility requests:

 Date                        Organization                Location
05/10-11/07                Middle school          Gymnasium
05/24/07                     Head Start                Football Field

NOTE-1:  The following safety/security procedures for ensuring appropriate crowd control and acceptable entrance/exit routes in the parking areas when
hosting school activities in the gymnasium:
     a.  Ensure the authorized building (gymnasium) State Fire Code capacity limitation is observed and enforced.
     b.  Ensure law enforcement officials enforce posted policies about no  standing in the entrance/exit or walkways, and that spectators remain in  the bleachers and  behind the rails unless going to and from restrooms and the concession stand.
     c.  Ensure the assigned parking details keep an unobstructed entrance/exit sufficient to allow the free-flow of traffic to and from the
parking area at all times.  Double parking will not be allowed, and the student athletic field on the hill in back of the elementary school will be used for overflow parking.  Vehicles will be towed at the owner's expense.
      d.  Ensure assigned school staff/law enforcement officials effectively monitor gymnasium entrance/exit doors to prevent unauthorized entrance/exit, and to maintain an accurate count to make sure the building capacity limitation is observed and enforced.
     e.  Ensure signs are posted in the most visible areas to make people aware of policies to be observed in the gymnasium/facility.
     f.  Ensure policy violators are escorted from the premises.
     g.  Ensure the GHSA officials discontinue the game anytime it appears to be getting out of control and may potentially excite the crowd toward unacceptable behavior.
NOTE-2:  Personnel with authorized access to the Central Elementary/High School facility will comply with the following:
      a.  Safe guard their security access code when issued prohibited from sharing their security access code with anyone for any reason at any time.
      b.   Coordinate with the school system security monitor, Sandy Mitchell, in advance of entering the Central Elementary/High School
facility at all times regardless of having an access code and authority to enter the facility.  The system is supervisory-monitored and controlled and will be activated when procedures are violated.  Local law enforcement authorities are notified whenever there is a violation.  The system will also activate when doors are not properly closed.
     d.  It is considered trespassing whenever entrance is made into the building without advance coordination with the responsible grade level principal and the school system security monitor.  Staff members with keys, including those who have been assigned personal access codes, are required to follow this procedure (including principals and central office administrators), too. Violators will be documented.
      e.  It is prohibited to hang items from any classroom ceiling (signs, banners, ornaments, etc).  Doing so will automatically set the alarm system
 off since it is already enabled and in the ready mode.  Principal will monitor this safety concern closely.

33.  On the motion of Mr. Smith, seconded by Mrs. Griffin, voted unanimously to approve the following trip requests:

Date                      Organization/Club                 Location
05/00/07                Mrs. Daphne Mathis           Columbus
05/14/07               Youth Apprenticeship         Warm Springs
06/04/07               4-H Club                           Rock Eagle
06/20/07               4-H Club                           Bessemer, AL
06/22-24/07           Boys basketball team          Albany
06/4-8/07              JROTC                              Fort Benning
06/15-17/07           Boys basketball team          Tallahassee, FL
06/25/07               4-H Club                           Camp Fortson

Note 1: Pep bus authorized to accompany each basketball and football game on a reimbursable basis.
Note 2:  A transportation fee will be charged to organizations not sponsored by the Talbot County Board of Education.  The charge for using a
school bus for non-system related activities is $3.50 per mile, including liability (old policy in effect pending board approval).  This fee is to defray gas and maintenance costs.  In addition, the driver must be a school employee (permanent or substitute bus driver).  The driver's fee will be the responsibility of the requesting organization, and is calculated by the driver's hourly rate times the number of hours required to complete the trip when non-certified school employee drivers are used.   Non-certified
school bus drivers will be paid time and a half whenever they take a trip which requires them to work in excess of 40 hours per week, regular time plus driving time.   Plus, all overtime work requests must be approved in advance by the superintendent.
Note 3: Only approved trips will be considered for Alternative Education Program (AEP) vehicle assets.  Coordination with the AEP Director is required in advance when AEP vehicle assets are desired.  Note 2 applies with regular school vehicle assets.
Note 4: AEP vehicle assets will not be used to take regular students to and from home on regular bus routes.  However, when approved in advance, such vehicle assets may be used for 1) alternative education activities, 2) supplemental academic programs, 3) extra -curricular activities, 4) Family Connection Partnership (FCP) activities, 5) and approved community activities.
Note 5:   Dual employees are prohibited from working in excess of 40 hours in any given week without prior written approval from the superintendent.
Furthermore, any time an employee works in excess of 40 hours, he/she will be paid time and a half overtime based on their hourly rate in accordance
with the Fair Labor Standards Act.   Plus, overtime requests are required to be in writing and be received and approved in advance by the superintendent.

34.  Continued emphasis was again placed on compliance with OCGA 60-5-1-06 (Employee Work Day), OCGA 20-2-210 (Annual Performance Evaluations) Reading First and Georgia's assurances, personal liability for on campus damages and fair, firm and consistent enforcement of policy.

35.  Safety.  It is imperative that increased vigilance be given to keeping our school safe and secure these last days of school.  Everyone should be at their assigned duty station and monitoring student activity. Be safety conscious and keep safety first.  Zero tolerance will be enforced on inappropriate behavior, including  loitering, visitors to school and visitors policy (OGGA 20-2-1180, TCSS Policy KM and KM-R) will be emphasized throughout the school year.  Safety and security requires  everyone's support and watchfulness at all times.  School leadership is fully aware of the need for ensuring the school setting is safe, secure and conducive to learning.  Increased  administrator visibility is required in the cafeteria at lunch time and in the hallways at the change of classes is reemphasized.  Similar supervisory emphasis is expected for the 21st Century After School Program, the Upward Bound Program and the DHR Youth Initiative Program.

36.  Everyone is to be watchful and attentive to potential incidents.  Questionable behavior is to be reported and checked. Assigned posts are to be manned as directed.  Students who are not assigned to specific programs, as approved by staff and parents, are not allowed on school property after the regular school day, 3:10 p.m., unless attending spectator activities or other events opened to the public.  Students who are cited for trespassing will be referred to the principal and students assigned to the 21st Century program will be
handled by that staff.  It was also noted that efforts were coordinated with the local law enforcement officials about the possibility of their providing on-site security by physically having a presence in (walking through) the building at certain times which have been considered to be critical to maintaining a safe and secure setting.

37.  On the motion of Mr. Smith, seconded by Mrs. Willis, voted unanimously to approve the following personnel actions as discussed:  a) hire Fannie M. Williams and b)Mary R. Carter as substitute food service and custodian workers.

 NOTE 1:  Action is pending until July 1, 2007 on TAPP applicants.  Applicants will incur a three (3) year commitment to teach in the school system upon being certified as highly qualified.

38.  On the motion of Mr. Smith, seconded by Mrs. Willis, voted unanimously to approve the recommendation to have a surplus sale on May 26 and June 1 from 9: a.m. to 12:00 p.m. both days.

39.  On the motion of Mrs. Willis, seconded by Mr. Smith, voted unanimously to approve for new substitute and full-time food service employees to be provided orientation by the food service director.

40.  On the motion of Mr. Smith, seconded by Mrs. Willis, voted unanimously to approve the recommendation to add religion as a course elective and to use the King James Bible as the text.

41.  It was board consensus that effective next school term Central will participate in the Page One program.

42.  The superintendent will ensure each of the concerns addressed at the retreat are summarized and submitted with accompanying resolutions, assigned responsibility and bench marks.

43.  On the motion of Mrs. Griffin, seconded by Mr. Smith, voted unanimously to change the agenda to allow public remarks to be presented before going into executive session.

44.  Public remarks:  a)  Mrs. Toyana Glass discussed concern about a 018, leaving campus without permission, referral.  Subject concern was handled in accordance with policy.  b) Mr. Herman Howard discussed a concern about a recently reported alleged bomb threat at the school and the way it was handled.  Hazard/safety procedures are currently under revision.  Mr.Howard and other first responders will be consulted for input.  c)  Mr. Chuck Border addressed the board about his business being considered as a collection agency for the school system's utility bills payments.  The request is under consideration.

45.  On the motion of Mrs. Willis, seconded by Mr. Smith, voted unanimously to go into executive session to discuss a)  the purchase of a proposed school site, b) student issues, and c) personnel matters.

46.  On the motion of Mrs. Willis, seconded by Mrs. Griffin, voted unanimously to approve for the superintendent to pursue the purchase of the proposed school site as discussed.

47.  On the motion of Mrs. Willis, seconded by Mr. Smith, voted unanimously to approve the following personnel actions as discussed: a) hire Fannie M. Williams and Mary R. Carter as substitute food service and custodian workers, b) Irada Perry and Synitra Horton as potential TAPP applicants and for the superintendent to staff and finalize other personnel matters as discussed..

48.  On the motion of Mr. Smith,  seconded by Mrs. Griffin, voted unanimously to adjourn.  The next work session is scheduled for Monday, June 11 at 6:00 p.m.  The next regular meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, June 12, at 6:00 p.m. in the central office located at 405 West Tyler Street. The public is encouraged to attend.
 
 Robert W. Patrick
Superintendent
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June 2007

The Talbot County Board of Education met in a Regular Session on Tuesday, June, 2007 at 6:00 p. m. with the following members present:  Mrs. Sally Ferguson (D-1), Mr. Albert Smith (D-5),  Mrs.
Marilyn Griffin (D-4), Mrs. Muriel Marshall (D-2) and  Mrs. Shamona Willis (D-3).

1. Meeting called to order by Chairperson, Mrs. Sally Ferguson.

2.  Moment of silence requested by Chairperson, Mrs. Sally Ferguson.

3.  The Pledge of Allegiance led by Superintendent Robert W. Patrick.

4.  On the motion of Mrs. Griffin, seconded by Mr. Smith, voted unanimously to approve the June 12, 2007 meeting agenda.

5.  On the motion of Mrs. Griffin, seconded by Mr. Smith, voted 4-1 to approve the May 8, 2007 regular meeting minutes.  Mrs. Marshall abstained.

6.  Recognition:  The following a) seniors were recognized as top students in the class of 2007:  1)  Alexis Rankin (valedictorian), 2) Jonathan Durham, 3) Adrienne Davis, 4) Samantha Harris, 5)
Torrance Payne, 6) Brittany Griffin, 7) Endia Bunkley, 8) Tanika Couch, and 9) Chanquez Green, b) readers were recognized for reading over 200 books as part of the 25 book of the month
campaign: 1) Jayla Bunkley (210), 2) Kristi Jackson (230), 3) Morreese Horton (220), Keasha Ryles (223) and Nikita Howard (225).  Congratulations.

7.  Announcements:  a)  The summer food program will end Friday, June 29, b) testing windows for the following EOCT are:  1) algebra I ( June 20), 2) Geometry (June 21), 3) Ninth Grade Lit &
composition (June 22), 4) American Lit & Comp (June 25), 5) Biology (June 26), 6) Physical Science (June 27), 7) US History (June 28) and Economics/Business/Free Enterprise (June 29).   Retest for the GHSGT is
schedule for July.  Specific dates will be announced later.

8.   Standards, Instructions and Assessments Update:  Assistant Supt. Tannette Saunders briefed the board on upcoming school improvement requirements and introduced other briefers.   She also
informed the board that Friday, June 15 is the sign-off date.  AYP status will then be released.   Mrs. Saunders also raised the central question of the meeting when she asked, "What do we do with the student data once we get it?"  Administrators will ensure the data is analyzed and used to provide specific instructional support to students based on their areas of need.  Mrs. Doctrie provided templates of what data will be used and how it will be shared and used.  In addition to being housed in the respective school levels, generic student data will also be displayed in the school board conference room, the central data room  and in the hallways.

9.  Principal  Edward Tymes provided the high school update.  He informed the board about the status of school improvement programs and student activities, including responding to questions about plans to continue the study skills class for all juniors who will potentially be taking the GHSGT for the first time.  He also presented a proposal for on-site staff development in mathematics and science for the summer (July 9-11),  and stated that the school improvement restructuring had been approved and that a meeting will be held tomorrow morning June 13 at 9:00 a.m. with representatives from GADOE and RESA.  He also announced that the month of May was extremely busy with all of the school closing activities taking place within a compressed time frame.  It was also announced that 41 students graduated and that 10 cadets along with LTC Jose Pizzarro and CMS LeRoy Fountain were away at Fort Benning and Columbus State University for camp last week.  He concluded by saying that the remediation classes were up in
attendance and that the students appear to be more focused and serious about coming to class and learning.

10.  Reading First Coach/Instructional Leader (K-5):  Mrs. Gladys Doctrie updated the board on the student progress in grades K-5 and thanked the board for their continued support, specifically
referencing the breakfast that was held in Columbus on June 1.  She expressed satisfaction with the training that took place as well as for the enthusiasm the participants demonstrated.  She also made
the middle school presentation on behalf of Mr. Kenneth Bonaparte and identified areas which require increased attention, and is currently being addressed.

11.  Charter/Alternative School Update:  Mr. Jerome C. Harris, Director, briefed the board on the status of the school year.  He reported that he had 18 students at times during the year and that
it is his desire, as has been addressed with his board and at the April 21 school improvement retreat, that he be approved to expand from serving 18 to 25 students.  In addition, he stated that summer
school is up and running.  However, most of the students were from other school systems.  "We have had calls recently from some of our parents that want us to allow their children to enroll now.  I
will not do that to my people.  I have a great staff and appreciate the support they give me," he concluded.

12.  21st Century After-School Program Update:   Mrs. Cynthia Epps and Mrs. Brenda Walker, Site-Managers, provided the board with an update on the program.  In addition, she briefed the board on the programs' summer school  initiative which will offer students the chance to remediate, recover and take enrichment classes this summer.  Further,  increased  emphasis will be given to daily rituals, policy enforcement and student behavior.  However, parents will have to register their child or children and will also have to ensure that they attend classes regularly.  The program also offers students these opportunities for 20 days this summer, from June 4 through June 29.  In addition to the course work in the classrooms, students are also offered the opportunity to take field trips on a
recommended basis.  For additional information on the 21st Century Program, contact Mrs. Cynthia Epps or Mrs. Brenda Walker.

13 Early Reading First (ERF) Update:  Mrs. Dorothy Bass, presenting on behalf of Mr. David Davidson, ERF Project Coordinator, briefed the board on the implementation status of ERF.   Over 80 students
registered to participate this summer, and 64 started yesterday, Monday, June 11.  "This is really wonderful.  Just great.  We want to thank Mr. Davidson and his staff for the great work they are doing with our children,"   she concluded.

14.  Family Connection Partnership (FCP) Update:  Dorothy Bass, Director, briefed the board on the FCP program.   Some of its ongoing programs include the recent approval of the Governor's Ready to Work Ready Community for Talbot County that was among the 72 applicants  selected. That is really wonderful.  It was also announced that the Leadership Talbot County training is ongoing and is held as scheduled on the second Thursday of each month at 6:00 p.m. in the FCP Building.  Although the DHR summer youth initiative will not be taking the scheduled trip to Macon on Friday, we will get it in.
Finally, she stated that the next FCP regular meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, June 20 at 11:30 a.m.  The public is invited to attend.

15.   Even Start Program Update: Dorothy Bass,  Mrs. Alice Johnson Director, informed the board that the program is progressing very well. More importantly, Even Start will be open to accommodate the needs of parents who have children participating in the Early Reading First (ERF) program. That means the hours of operation will now extend until 6:00 p.m. daily until further notice.   Request that persons who are interested in signing up for the program contact Mrs. Alice Johnson or Sheron Sutton at extension 665-8831.

16.  On the motion of Mrs. Griffin, seconded by Mr. Smith, voted unanimously to approve the food service financial report.

17.  On the motion of Mrs. Griffin, seconded by Mr. Smith, voted unanimously to approve the school food service vendor bid list.

18a.  On the motion of Mrs. Griffin, seconded by Mrs. Marshall, voted unanimously to table the school food service budget.

18b.  Of the eight students registered to attend the AHEC Chart the Course Health Careers Camp, and eight student attended.  They were 1) Arsenio Hall, 2) Brittney Horton, 3) Branton Smith, 4) Brittney Smith, 5) Iesha James, 6) Jeffrey Key, 7) Marcol Harvey and 8) Naeisha Owens.  They traveled to Martin Army Hospital, the National Infantry Museum and Columbus State University.  They were joined by students from Muscogee and Harris Counties. Other offerings during the week include emergency preparedness and trauma and a visit from the Fort Valley State University Veterinary Department.

19.  On the motion of Mr. Smith, seconded by Mrs. Marshall, voted unanimously to approve the school system financial report.

20.  On the motion of Mr. Smith, seconded by Mrs. Griffin, voted unanimously to approve the tentative 2007-2008 school year budget in the amount of  $10,472,419, at the same millage rate as last year (13.80) and on the dates suggested for the five year history and the three tax hearings.

21.  On the motion of Mrs. Marshall, seconded by Mr. Smith, voted unanimously to approve the $800,000 recommended budget continuation, including the authority for the board chairperson and
the superintendent to initiate the process for executing the continuation loan.

22.  On the motion of Marshall, seconded by Mrs. Willis, voted unanimously to increase the minimum wage from $5.25 to $7.25, to include having subject raise reflected in the approved salary schedule effective July 1, 2007.

23.  On the motion of Mrs. Ferguson, seconded by Mr. Smith, voted unanimously to approve the recommended RFPs:  a)  six cooling units, b) expanded bandwidth,  c)  emergency roof repair in rooms 15 and 16, d)electrical screen and projector in cafeteria, e) and an addendum to the football bleachers sufficient to meet the 2,000 seating capacity for host playoff games (the bleacher RFP includes work required to complete each phase of the project).

24.  On the motion of Mr. Smith, seconded by Mrs. Griffin, voted unanimously to approve the request for payment of purchase orders, bills, etc.

25.  On the motion of Mrs. Griffin, seconded by Mrs. Willis, voted  unanimously to approve the following fundraiser:

    Date                          Organization             Location
06/10-11/07                   Middle school            Gymnasium

26.  On the motion of Mr. Smith, seconded by Mrs. Marshall,  voted unanimously to approve the following facility requests:

   Date                        Organization                     Location
06/29/07                Summer Food Program           Gymnasium

NOTE-1:  The following safety/security procedures for ensuring appropriate crowd control and acceptable entrance/exit routes in the parking areas when hosting school activities in the gymnasium:
     a.  Ensure the authorized building (gymnasium) State Fire Code capacity limitation is observed and enforced.
     b.  Ensure law enforcement officials enforce posted policies about no standing in the entrance/exit or walkways, and that spectators remain in the bleachers and behind the rails unless going to and from restrooms and the concession stand.
     c.  Ensure the assigned parking details keep an unobstructed entrance/exit sufficient to allow the free-flow of traffic to and from the parking area at all times.  Double parking will not be allowed, and the
student athletic field on the hill in back of the elementary school will be used for overflow parking.  Vehicles will be towed at the owner's expense.
      d.  Ensure assigned school staff/law enforcement officials effectively monitor gymnasium entrance/exit doors to prevent unauthorized entrance/exit, and to maintain an accurate count to make sure the building capacity limitation is observed and enforced.
     e.  Ensure signs are posted in the most visible areas to make people aware of policies to be observed in the gymnasium/facility.
      f.  Ensure policy violators are escorted from the premises.
      g.  Ensure the GHSA officials discontinue the game anytime it appears to be getting out of control and may potentially excite the crowd toward unacceptable behavior.
NOTE-2:  Personnel with authorized access to the Central Elementary/High School facility will comply with the following:
      a.  Safe guard their security access code when issued prohibited from sharing their security access code with anyone for any reason at any time.
      b.   Coordinate with the school system security monitor, Sandy Mitchell, in advance of entering the Central Elementary/High School facility at all times regardless of having an access code and
authority to enter the facility.  The system is supervisory-monitored and controlled and will be activated when procedures are violated.  Local law enforcement authorities are notified whenever there is a violation.  The system will also activate when doors are not properly closed.
     d.  It is considered trespassing whenever entrance is made into the building without advance coordination with the responsible grade level principal and the school system security monitor.
Staff members with keys, including those who have been assigned personal access codes, are required to follow this procedure (including principals and central office administrators), too.
Violators will be documented.
     e.  It is prohibited to hang items from any classroom ceiling (signs, banners, ornaments, etc).  Doing so will automatically set the alarm system off since it is already enabled and in the ready
mode.  Principal will monitor this safety concern closely.

27.  On the motion of Mrs. Marshall, seconded by Mrs. Griffin, voted unanimously to approve the following trip requests:
   Date                   Organization/Club               Location
06/11-13/07           Girls basketball                  Taylor County
06/17-21/07           Girls basketball                   Columbus
06-07/07                  DHR                                   College
visits/trips
06/12-15/07           CHES                               Columbus/Fort Benning
06/24-27/07           TSA                                 Nashville, TN
06/28-30/07           FBLA                                Chicago, IL

Note 1: Pep bus authorized to accompany each basketball and football game on a reimbursable basis.
Note 2:  A transportation fee will be charged to organizations not sponsored by the Talbot County Board of Education.  The charge for using a school bus for non-system related activities is $3.50 per
mile, including liability (old policy in effect pending board approval). This fee is to defray gas and maintenance costs.  In addition, the driver must be a school employee (permanent or substitute bus driver).  The driver's fee will be the responsibility of the requesting organization, and is calculated by the driver's hourly rate times the number of hours required to complete the trip when non-certified school employee drivers are used. Non-certified school bus drivers will be paid time and a half whenever they take a trip which requires them to work in excess of 40 hours per week, regular time plus driving time.   Plus, all overtime work requests must be approved in advance by the superintendent.
Note 3: Only approved trips will be considered for Alternative Education Program (AEP) vehicle assets.  Coordination with the AEP Director is required in advance when AEP vehicle assets are
desired.  Note 2 applies with regular school vehicle assets.
Note 4: AEP vehicle assets will not be used to take regular students to and from home on regular bus routes.  However, when approved in advance, such vehicle assets may be used for 1) alternative education activities, 2) supplemental academic programs, 3) extra-curricular activities, 4) Family Connection Partnership (FCP) activities, 5) and approved community activities.
Note 5:   Dual employees are prohibited from working in excess of 40 hours in any given week without prior written approval from the superintendent. Furthermore, any time an employee works
in excess of 40 hours, he/she will be paid time and a half overtime based on their hourly rate in accordance with the Fair Labor Standards Act. Plus, overtime requests are required to be in writing and be received and approved in advance by the superintendent.

28.  Continued emphasis was again placed on compliance with OCGA 60-5-1-06 (Employee Work Day), OCGA 20-2-210 (Annual Performance Evaluations) Reading First and Georgia's assurances, personal liability for on campus damages and fair, firm and consistent enforcement of policy.

29.  Safety.  It is imperative that increased vigilance be given to keeping our school safe and secure these last days of school.  Everyone should be at their assigned duty station and monitoring
student activity.  Be safety conscious and keep safety first.  Zero tolerance will be enforced on inappropriate behavior, including the loitering, visitors to school and visitors policy (OGGA 20-2-1180,
TCSS Policy KM and KM-R) will be emphasized throughout the school year. 
Safety and security requires everyone's support and watchfulness at all times.  School leadership is fully aware of the need for ensuring the school setting is safe, secure and conducive to
learning.  Increased  administrator visibility is required in the cafeteria at lunch time and in the hallways at the change of classes is reemphasized.  Similar supervisory emphasis in expected for the
21st Century After School Program, the Upward Bound Program, the DHR Youth Initiative Program, summer food program and the Early Reading First program (at the Tyler Street site).

30.  Everyone is to be watchful and attentive to potential incidents. Questionable behavior is to be reported and checked.  Assigned posts are to be manned as directed.  Students who are not
assigned to specific programs, as approved by staff and parents, are not allowed on school property  unless attending events open to the public. Students who are cited for trespassing will be referred
to the principal and students assigned to other programs will be handled by their respective staffs.  It was also noted that efforts were coordinated with the local law enforcement officials about the
possibility of their providing on-site security by physically having a presence in (walking through) the building at certain times which have been considered to be critical to maintaining a safe and secure
setting.

31.  On the motion of Mrs. Willis, seconded by Mrs. Griffin, voted unanimously to approve sending representatives to the Southern Region NSBA conference in San Antonio, TX  in July.

32.  On the motion of Mr. Smith, seconded by Mrs. Marshall, voted unanimously to approve using GADOE evaluation instruments (the GTOI and Leadership forms) for school year 2007-2008.

33.  On the  motion of Mrs. Griffin, seconded by Mrs. Marshall, voted unanimously to approve the proposed grant application for mathematics and science with Kennesaw State University.

34.  On the motion of Mr. Smith, seconded by Mrs. Griffin, voted unanimously to approve the recommended revisions to the parent & student handbook for school year 2007-2008.

35.  On the motion on Mr. Smith, seconded by Mrs. Willis, voted unanimously to approve the following personnel actions as discussed:  a) hire Tammie Lynn Pattilo as substitute food service
b) Peter Mahone as a substitute custodian worker and c) Sandra Barnes, Andrea Lauzon and Lacey Pitts as certified staff members.

NOTE 1:  Action is pending until July 1, 2007 on TAPP applicants. 
Applicants will incur a three (3) year commitment to teach in the school system upon being certified as highly qualified.

36.  On the motion of Mr. Smith, seconded by Mrs. Griffin, voted unanimously to approve the recommendation to go into executive session to discuss real estate and personnel.

37.  On the motion of Mr. Smith, seconded by Mrs. Griffin, voted unanimously to amend the previous motion to include a discussion on and consideration of a student issue, along with the personnel and
real estate issues.

38.  On the motion of Mrs. Griffin, seconded by Mr. Smith, voted unanimously to approve returning to regular session.

39.  Consideration is still being given to the selection of the proposed school site for the new elementary school.  Personnel action is still being legally staffed.  It is the desire of the board that school policy be
enforced fair, firm and consistently; however, administrators are also encouraged to go that extra mile in working with our parents and students in achieving the objective of having a safe and secure school, one that is conducive to learning and student growth.

40.  The e-board project is being expedited and will continue to receive top priority as will the project to upgrade and renovate the school board conference room.

41.  The superintendent provided an update on items discussed on school improvement at the April 21 retreat.  Some of the items have already been addressed and others are in progress, but pending
completion and staffing.   Some of the projects are contingent upon the budget process and, therefore,  will have to await the outcome of that fiscal process.

42.  On the motion of Mrs. Marshall, seconded by Mrs. Willis, voted unanimously to approve for the school to have a back-to-school retreat at Callaway Gardens for the staff (including all alternative & ancillary
education programs and collaborative agencies) and selected guests on Saturday, July 28.

43.  On the motion of Mrs. Griffin,  seconded by Mrs. Willis, voted unanimously to adjourn.  The next work session is scheduled for Monday, July 9 at 6:00 p.m.  The next regular meeting is scheduled
for Tuesday, July 10, at 6:00 p.m. in the central office located at 405 West Tyler Street. The public is encouraged to attend.

Robert W. Patrick
Superintendent

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