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 requests:
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
Top of the Page
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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