Meeting Agenda BOARD OF EDUCATION NILES TOWNSHIP HIGH SCHOOLS DISTRICT 219 February 9, 2016 I.
II.
Call to Order and Roll Call (5:30 p.m.) Closed Session (1) The appointment, employment, compensation, discipline, performance, or dismissal of specific employees of the public body or legal counsel for the public body, including hearing testimony on a complaint lodged against an employee of the public body or against legal counsel for the public body to determine its validity. 5 ILCS 120/2(c)(1) (2) Collective negotiating matters between the public body and its employees or their representatives, or deliberations concerning salary schedules for one or more classes of employees. 5 ILCS 120/2(c)(1) (3) Student disciplinary cases 5 ILCS 120/2(c)(9) (4) Litigation, when an action against, affecting or on behalf of the particular public body has been filed and is pending before a court or administrative tribunal, or when the public body finds that an action is probable or imminent, in which case the basis for the finding shall be recorded and entered into the minutes of the closed meeting. 5 ILCS 120/2 (c)(11)
III.
Recall to Order (6:45 p.m.)
IV.
Pledge of Allegiance
V.
Welcome
VI.
Changes / Additions to the Agenda for Discussion
VII.
Student Highlights
VIII.
Student Representative Comments
Niles North – Spencer Schwartz Niles West - Sidra Kallan IX.
Audience to Visitors (on agenda items only)
X.
Approval of Consent Agenda Monthly Bills and Payroll ..................................................................................................................................1 Personnel* ........................................................................................................................................................2 Minutes of the January 11, 2016, January 12, 2016, January 21, 2016 and January 28, 2016 Board of Education Meetings-Open and Close Sessions* ............................................................................................3 Donation of Vehicle to Niles West High School Automotive Program.............................................................4 Monetary Donation to Niles North’s Counseling Department ...........................................................................5
XI. Business Permanent Interfund Transfer from the Education Fund to the Capital Projects Fund (Discussion and Action) .......................................................................................................................6 Permanent Interfund Transfer from the Operation & Maintenance Fund to Capital Projects Fund (Discussion and Action) ..........................................................................................................7 Permanent Interfund Transfer from the Education Fund to Debt Service Fund (Discussion and Action) .........8 Administrative Compensation (Discussion and Action) ....................................................................................9 World Languages Presentation (Discussion Only) .........................................................................................10 XII. Superintendent’s Report XIII. Principals’ Report XIV.
Board Members’ Comments
XV.
Board Committee Reports
XVI.
Old Business
XVII. New Business XVIII.
Audience to Visitors (on items related to District business)
XIX.
Information Items Heartland Health Center .................................................................................................................................11 Communications Department Report .............................................................................................................12 Monthly Financial Report – December 2015 ...................................................................................................13 FOIA (Freedom of Information Act) Requests ................................................................................................14
XX.
Closed Session (if needed)
XXI.
Adjournment
*Denotes items for Board members only
Upcoming Board of Education Meeting Dates: Tuesday, March 8, 2016 @ 6:45 p.m. Tuesday, April 5, 2016 @ 6:45 p.m.
Tuesday, May 3, 2016 @ 6:45 p.m. Tuesday, May 24, 2016 @ 6:45 p.m. Tuesday, June 21, 2016 @ 6:45 p.m.
* Closed Session begins at 5:30 p.m.
Special Meeting Minutes Board of Education Niles Township High Schools District 219 Cook County, Illinois January 11, 2016
I. Call to Order and Roll Call Board President Sproat called the meeting to order at 6:05 p.m. Board Members Present at Roll Call: Ruth Klint, David Ko, Linda Lampert, Brian Novak, Joseph Nowik, Mark Sproat. Board Members Absent at Roll Call: Carlton Evans II. Open Session It was moved by LAMPERT and seconded by KO to go into Open Session at 6:06 p.m. III.
The pledge was recited.
IV. President Sproat welcomed everyone to the Special Board meeting and described the order of this meeting. V. Audience to Visitors No one asked to speak. VI. Business Closed Session It was moved by KLINT and seconded by NOVAK to consider the appointment, employment, compensation, discipline, performance or dismissal of specific employees of the Board and/or legal counsel for the Board and pending or probable/imminent litigation. The Board will return to Open Session and adjournment of the meeting without action being taken. A roll call vote was taken. Voting Aye: Klint, Ko, Lampert, Novak, Nowik, Sproat. The motion carried. The Board recessed into Closed Session at 6:07 p.m. VII. Open Session It was moved by KLINT and seconded by NOWIK to return to open session. A roll call vote was taken. Voting Aye: Klint, Ko, Lampert, Novak, Nowik, Sproat. The motion carried. The meeting adjourned to open session at 8:29 p.m. VIII. Adjournment It was moved by NOVAK and seconded by LAMPERT to adjourn the meeting. A roll call vote was taken. Voting Aye: Klint, Ko, Lampert, Novak, Nowik, Sproat. The motion carried.
Minutes of the Special Board Meeting of January 11, 2016
Page 1 of 2
The meeting adjourned at 8:30 p.m.
_______________________________________ President
Minutes of the Special Board Meeting of January 11, 2016
___________________________________ Secretary
Page 2 of 2
Regular Meeting Minutes Board of Education Niles Township High Schools District 219 Cook County, Illinois January 12, 2016 I. Call to Order and Roll Call Board President Sproat called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m. Board Members Present at Roll Call: Ruth Klint, David Ko, Linda Lampert, Brian Novak, Joseph Nowik, Mark Sproat. Board Members Absent: Carlton Evans II. Closed Session It was moved by NOVAK and seconded by NOWIK to recess into closed session to discuss the appointment, employment, compensation, discipline, performance, or dismissal of employees and collective bargaining. A roll call vote was taken. Voting Aye: Klint, Ko, Lampert, Novak, Nowik, Sproat. The motion carried. The Board recessed into Closed Session at 5:36 p.m. III. Open Session It was moved by NOVAK and seconded by SPROAT to return to open session at 6:53 p.m. A roll call vote was taken. Voting Aye: Klint, Ko, Lampert, Novak, Nowik, Sproat. The motion carried. IV. Recall to Order President Sproat recalled the meeting to order at 6:53 p.m. The Pledge was recited. V. Public Hearing Final Budget FY 2016 It was moved by NOVAK and seconded by NOWIK to open the Public Hearing on the Fiscal Year 2016 budget. A roll call vote was taken. Voting Aye: Klint, Ko, Lampert, Nowik, Novak, Sproat. The motion carried. There were no public comments on the Budget. President Sproat indicated that the Budget would be discussed further in the Business portion of the meeting. It was moved by NOWIK and seconded by KO to close the Public Hearing on the Fiscal Year 2016 Budget. Voting Aye: Klint, Ko, Lampert, Nowik, Novak, Sproat. The motion carried. President Sproat thanked everyone for attending the meeting.
Minutes of the Regular Board Meeting of January 12, 2016
Page 1 of 12
VI. Changes / Additions to the Agenda Item D (Teacher Leave of Absence) was moved to be voted on separately. Items F (Retirements) and J (Parapro Position) were removed from the Consent Agenda and tabled. VII. Student Highlights – Erick Rodriguez (North) The student being highlighted this month is Erick Rodriguez, a student at Niles North. Erick is being highlighted for his work combining Geometry and Intro to Engineering and the many real-life applications he has discovered. Mr. Ron Dornseif, his teacher, described how the application of geometry in real-world projects benefits students and prepares them for future careers. Dr. Roloff said that the District offered a class called Geometry & Construction. President Sproat presented Erick with a plaque recognizing his achievement and a picture was taken with the Board. VIII. Student Representative Comments Niles North – Spencer Schwartz gave the following highlights for Niles North. Spencer said that Pizza Wars would be held on January 20 and proceeds would go to the D219 Education Foundation. WGN will be coming to highlight the event. Activities Night will be held on February 3 and it is a great opportunity for incoming students to find extracurricular activities. On January 21-23, the Festival of One-Act Plays will be taking place and 16 plays would be performed; giving students the chance to both encounter and take part in the theatre. Niles West – Sidra Kallan gave the following highlights for Niles West. Sidra said the Variety Show would take place on January 22, 2016, featuring many talented students and the proceeds would be donated to Dance Marathon. International Week begins on January 25, 2016 and would feature a number of events, including International Feast on January 28 and February 3. Mr. Novak asked the student representatives if they had completed the recent calendar survey so he could get an idea of the participation level. The student representatives responded that they were encouraging other students to take the survey, IX. Audience to Visitor Comments There was no audience to visitors asking to speak on Board agenda items. X. Approval of the Consent Agenda A motion was made by KLINT and seconded by KO to approve the consent agenda, as amended. A roll call vote was taken. Voting Aye: Klint, Ko, Lampert, Nowik, Novak, Sproat. The motion carried. It was moved by NOVAK and seconded by KO to approve Item D (Teacher Leave of Absence). A roll call vote was taken. Voting Aye: Lampert Voting Nay: Novak, Nowik, Klint, Ko, Sproat The motion did not pass XI. Final Budget FY 2016 Mr. Trimberger discussed the FY 2016 Budget. Mr. Sproat stated that more financial oversight was needed as well as a committee to review expenses monthly. He stated that the next budget will be much tighter. Mr. Novak said he is less concerned about the OEPP than he is by the extravagant spending in the District. Ms. Lampert pointed out that the budget is for this school year which is already in the second semester. She said the next budget would be lower but with limited student impact. She said that the OEPP is large Minutes of the Regular Board Meeting of January 12, 2016
Page 2 of 12
but had been increased yearly by the previous Board. She said that she hoped everyone on the Board would vote for the budget so everyone on the Board could have a portion of the ownership and that any who voted against the budget were looking to appear fiscally responsible “when they’re not.” Mrs. Klint pointed out that the OEPP had gone down three times under the previous Board from 2011 to 2013. Mr. Nowik said that he hoped that in the next budget the Board would take into account systemic and cultural changes, as well as checks and balances and better oversight. Mrs. Klint made a statement regarding debt payment and said she would not be supporting the budget. Dr. Ko said the Board was trying to be fiscally responsible. He said that everyone saw the benefits of having a great school but that we need to make sure the district was fiscally responsible. He said that he hoped that the next budget presented would be better and asked for patience. President Sproat thanked Mr. Trimberger for his hard work. It was moved by LAMPERT and seconded by KO to approve the Fiscal Year 2016 Budget. A roll call vote was taken. Voting Aye: Ko, Lampert, Nowik, Sproat. Voting Nay: Klint, Novak. The motion carried. XII. Audience to Visitors No Audience to Visitors requested to speak. XIII. Community Representative Comments No community representatives asked to speak. XIV. Approval of Consent Agenda It was moved by KLINT and seconded by KO to approve the Consent Agenda, as amended. Voting Aye: Klint, Ko, Lampert, Nowik, Novak, Sproat. The motion carried. It was moved by NOVAK and seconded by KO to approve Item D (Teacher Leave of Absence). A roll call vote was taken. Voting Aye: Lampert Voting Nay: Klint, Ko, Novak, Nowik, Sproat The motion did not pass Included in the Consent Agenda were: Monthly Bills and Payroll in the amount of $13,144,900.11 Personnel Approved the following licensed staff leave of absence for the 2015-2016 school year: NAME Deramos, Julie
POSITION/LOCATION Special Education / West
Minutes of the Regular Board Meeting of January 12, 2016
TYPE OF LEAVE Temporary Illness – Unpaid
LEAVE FTE February 2, 2016 – March 14, 2016 (approximately)
Page 3 of 12
Approved the following support staff leave of absence for the 2015-2016 school year: NAME Wu, Brittany
POSITION/LOCATION Paraprofessional, Science / West
LEAVE FTE .5 (second semester only)
Approved the employment of the following support staff for the 2015-2016 school year: NAME Sullivan, Patrick
POSITION Paraprofessional, Special Education – P1 / Step 1, 185 days
FTE 1.0
EFFECTIVE DATE January 11, 2016
Approved the employment of the following part-time/temporary staff for 2015-16 School year:
NAME Armstrong, Eboni Calma, Patricia Chacko, Shebin
POSITION / LOCATION Textbook Center / North Textbook Center / West Technology Assistant / West
SALARY $8.25/Hr. $8.25/Hr. $8.25/Hr.
EFFECTIVE DATE January 13, 2016 January 13, 2016 January 13, 2016
Choudhury, Nazib Gilbert, Barbara Mancera, Jose Mendez, Brandon Nikitow, Pamela Poland, Ju Won Volpe, Laura Williams, Kalea
Textbook Center / West Job Coach / West Textbook Center / West Textbook Center / West Job Coach / West Textbook Center / West Textbook Center / West Textbook Center / West
$8.25/Hr. $14.00/Hr. $8.25/Hr. $8.25/Hr. $14.00/Hr. $8.25/Hr. $8.25/Hr. $8.25/Hr.
January 13, 2016 January 13, 2016 July 1, 2015 January 13, 2016 January 13, 2016 January 13, 2016 January 13, 2016 January 13, 2016
Approved the employment of the following stipend positions for the 2015-2016 school year:
NILES NORTH Boys Gymnastics, Assistant
NAME *Parat, Jacqueline
NILES WEST Science Olympiad, Assistant Girls Basketball Youth Development Feeder, Coordinator Girls Basketball Youth Development Feeder, Coordinator * Not a full-time school year employee
NAME Patel, Parin (.50) Ali, Amir (.25) *Wittleder, William (.25)
Approved the employment of the following substitute teachers for the 2015-2016 school year:
NAME Conwisher, Michael Franck, Theodora (long-term) Hale-Daoud, Cassandra Kreimont, Alba Castaneda Rosen, Benjamin Salzman-Levy, Beth
Approved the employment of the following licensed staff for the 2015-2016 school year:
NAME Bricker, Sarah
POSITION Social Work – MA15 / Step 1
Wu, Brittany
Science - MA / Step 1
Minutes of the Regular Board Meeting of January 12, 2016
FTE .4 (second semester only) .5 (second semester only)
EFFECTIVE DATE January 11, 2016 January 11, 2016
Page 4 of 12
Approved the resignation of the following support staff for the 2015-2016 school year:
NAME Hilmer, Dane
POSITION Paraprofessional, Digital Literacy
EFFECTIVE DATE January 20, 2016
Approved the employment of the following stipend positions for the 2015-2016 school year:
NILES NORTH Boys Gymnastics, Assistant Play 3, Assistant Play 5, Other Play 5, Other
NAME *Parat, Jacqueline Ortmann, Tim *Crane, Candice (.5) *Dietz, Robert (.5)
NILES WEST Wrestling Youth Development Feeder, Coordinator Wrestling Youth Development Feeder, Coordinator Wrestling Youth Development Feeder, Coordinator
NAME *Gillespie, Shannyn (.25) *Yonan, Nicholas (.25) *Gavin, Timothy (.25)
Approved the employment of the following substitute teachers for the 2015-2016 school year:
NAME Senf, Sean Wall, Kerry
Approved the employment of the following substitute paraprofessional for the 2015-2016 school year:
NAME Senf, Sean (long-term .5 second semester only)
Approved the Minutes of the November 24, 2015, December 1, 2015, and December 16, 2015 Board of Education Open and Closed Sessions.
Approved the Niles Township Property Tax Appeals Cooperative Payment.
XV. Business FY 2016 Budget (Discussion and Action) Mr. Trimberger said that since the December 1, 2015 Board meeting eight bus routes had been eliminated, saving approximately $640,000. An additional cost of $210,000 was required due to an increase in the IMRF contribution rate. Including these changes, the increase in the budget would be $4.4million, of which $4.1-million were operating expense increases the Operating Expense per Pupil (OEPP) from $24,496 to $25,414. Mr. Nowik asked Mr. Trimberger why in past years there had been dramatic differences in the OEPP year to year. Mr. Trimberger said he would research it further as he had not been with the district and had used numbers derived from past financial reports. Mr. Novak asked why there had been a $1200 increase in 2014-15. Mr. Trimberger said that in the past the District had re-classified accounts for expenses not related to K-12 education. He also noted that the District had increased interest payments as well as salary & benefit increases. Mr. Sproat said more financial oversight was needed as well as a committee to review expenses monthly. He said that people should be accountable and that just because a budget is approved doesn’t mean it can be spent at will. He said that the District should be able to explain to constituents what was spent and why. The next budget will be much tighter. Mr. Novak said he is less concerned about the OEPP than he is by the extravagant spending in the District. Ms. Lampert said that this is not the budget she had hoped to pass. She pointed out that the budget is for this school year which is already in the second semester. She said the next budget would be lower but with limited student impact. She said that the OEPP is large but had been increased yearly by the previous Board. She said that she hoped everyone on The Board would vote for the budget so everyone on The Minutes of the Regular Board Meeting of January 12, 2016
Page 5 of 12
Board could have a portion of the ownership and that any who voted against it is looking to appear fiscally responsible “when they’re not.” Mrs. Klint pointed out that the OEPP had gone down three times under the previous Board from 2011 to 2013. Mr. Nowik said that he hoped that in the next budget the Board would take into account systemic and cultural changes as well as checks and balances and better oversight. Mrs. Klint made a statement regarding debt payments and said she would not be supporting the budget. Dr. Ko said that The Board was trying to be fiscally responsible. He said that everyone saw the benefits of having a great school but that we needed to make sure the District was fiscally responsible. He said that he hoped that the next budget presented would be better and asked for patience. President Sproat thanked Mr. Trimberger for his hard work. It was moved by LAMPERT and seconded by KO to approve the Fiscal Year 2016 Budget. A roll call vote was taken. Voting Aye: Ko, Lampert, Nowik, Sproat Voting Nay: Klint, Novak
2016-17 Calendar amendment for Institute Days (Discussion and Action) Dr. Roloff explained that the calendar had been amended to reflect a contractual obligation regarding teacher institute days, and that the date had been changed for the Township institute day. Mr. Novak asked if the Board wished to have further discussion regarding the 2016-17 calendar before it was approved. Dr. Roloff explained that she had provided a draft calendar omitting religious holidays but the Board had elected instead to use the calendar approved in 2014. Mr. Novak said that perhaps further discussion could be considered in light of the results of the School Calendar Survey. Mr. Sproat asked if the survey was for the 2017-18 school year and Dr. Roloff replied that 2017-18 was in the survey instructions. Mrs. Klint said that the issue was the differences between the D219 schedule and the feeder school schedules but that she did not want to start school any earlier. Mr. Novak said that the school survey feedback showed that students didn’t feel there were enough opportunities for college visits. Dr. Ko said that while it was a good idea to try to match up the various township calendars, the calendars inevitably change. Dr. Roloff said that the 2017-18 calendar will reflect an attempt to reconcile the township calendars as much as possible. Dr. Ko said that changing the calendar was difficult to do in a short time. Ruth Klint asked if the Board would consider switching the non-attendance day on October 12, 2016 to October 10 2016 to better align with the feeder school calendars. President Sproat asked if the union needed to be consulted. Ann Goethals of the NTFT pointed out that October 12 was Yom Kippur and Mrs. Klint said that the matter could be dropped. It was moved by KLINT and seconded by NOWIK to approve the Amended 2016-17 School Year Calendar. Voting Aye: Ko, Lampert, Nowik, Novak, Sproat The motion carried Voting Nay: Klint The motion carried
School Calendar Survey (Discussion Only)
Minutes of the Regular Board Meeting of January 12, 2016
Page 6 of 12
Dr. Roloff said that there were over 2,100 respondents to the survey, however the results were inconclusive. She said The Board had directed her to design a calendar with and without religious holidays for the 2017-18 school year. She said that the feedback from the survey indicated that there were negative comments regarding the 2015-16 three-week winter break (which, she pointed out, was a one-time anomaly) and that if religious holidays were removed that the Board be mindful of those days in case parents choose to keep students out of school. She said that they intended to work with the township superintendents to design a better aligned 2017-18 calendar. Mr. Novak thanked the community for filling out the survey and said that people appreciated the feedback. He said that he expected more responses. Dr. Roloff said that the survey would also be sent to incoming freshman families for further input. Mr. Novak highlighted responses that he thought were very interesting. President Sproat said that it was important to ask the community for feedback and input. He said that they should make sure the feeder schools are sharing the survey as well. Ms. Lampert suggested that some citizens may have trouble with the survey due to issues with the website being in English. Mr. Nowik said that based on his experience, the response numbers were very good. There was further discussion as to the adequacy of the number of responses and ways to increase response numbers in the future. Ann Goethals said that she thought the teachers completed the survey in adequate numbers and that they appreciated an opportunity to share their opinions. She said that the District needed to be aware of the variety of religions in the District and that having teachers return to work on a Friday was inappropriate.
Summer School Rates (Discussion and Action) Mr. Trimberger said that in 2015 the District lost about $229,000 and that after reviewing the summer school rates of surrounding Districts he found that D219 rates were about $100 lower. He recommended that tuition be increased by $25 to offset costs and that this would reduce the net loss to between $100,000 to $125,000. Mrs. Klint asked if the costs of grant subsidies for summer school was being offset by the tuition costs. Mr. Novak asked Chris Powell, Summer School Principal, if students from outside the District could no longer take summer school classes. Mr. Powell said no, that the cost of outside students was inconsequential. Mr. Novak asked if the increased cost would lower student participation. Mr. Trimberger said that this was a difficult decision. Mr. Powell said that since more mandatory student attendance was being added to summer programs, the increase in costs was necessary. Mr. Novak asked if the fees for Sizzling Summer Science had been increased, and Mr. Powell said that the fee had been increased from $49 to $51 and that the program would break even. Mr. Powell said that that health had been a free program but that now a fee needed to be charged. It was moved by NOVAK and seconded by NOWIK to approve the Recommended Tuition and Fees for Summer 2016. Voting Aye: Klint, Ko, Lampert, Nowik, Novak, Sproat The motion carried
Career Paths (Discussion Only) Dr. Roloff said that Career Pathways were used in other schools in the state and that the Pathways were being added to the course book as a non-required guide to planning a student’s curriculum based on career goals. Mr. Powell gave examples of how classes could be selected based on career goals.
Minutes of the Regular Board Meeting of January 12, 2016
Page 7 of 12
President Sproat asked if this would map to colleges. Mr. Powell said that it would. Dr. McTague said that Mr. Powell had also tailored the Pathways for the D219 population. Mr. Powell said that the Pathways could also be used to help shape courses offered in the District. He also said that they would be updated regularly. Dr. Ko commended Mr. Powell for his hard work. Mr. Novak said that he would like to see data on the numbers of students taking AP and what their scores are. Dr. Roloff said that the information was provided in the annual AP Report presented to The Board. Dr. McTague said that 85% of the District’s students scored a 3 or better on AP exams and that all state schools now had to recognize AP credit. Mr. Ness said that the freshman class was at a 90% rate of scoring a 3 or better.
Communication Department (Discussion Only) Dr. Roloff said that a committee had been formed in conjunction with the union to review the Communications Department. President Sproat asked for a list of the committee members.
Policy and Procedures Second Reading (Discussion and Action) It was moved by LAMPERT and seconded by RUTH to approve Policy and Procedures Second Reading. Voting Aye: Klint, Ko, Lampert, Nowik, Novak, Sproat. The motion carried. The following policy and procedural changes were adopted at the January 12, 2016 Board of Education Meeting.
Number 5:60-AP1
Name Administrative Procedure – Travel Expenses
Changes Require conference agendas and detailed receipts for travel reimbursements. Maximum meal allowance set for each meal. Conference meals may not be charged on employee p-cards.
Minutes of the Regular Board Meeting of January 12, 2016
Page 8 of 12
Minutes of the Regular Board Meeting of January 12, 2016
Page 9 of 12
Non-renewal of an Administrative Contract (Discussion and Action) President Sproat recognized Dr. Douglas DeLayre, a community member, to offer comments. Dr. DeLayre said that his daughter was in the Special Ed Department and had discussed the Special Ed curriculum with Dr. Marcelo. He said that he didn’t feel that the current curriculum addressed the contemporary technological needs of students and that these skills were required for Special Ed students. He said that the unemployment rate for adult Special Ed students was 92% and that additional education was required for Special Ed students. He asked The Board to keep these needs in mind and that providing technological training would not increase District costs. In regard to the Budget, he asked that the Budget review process proceed department to department as to not penalize departments that were fiscally responsible. He then asked that any current Board members that were on the previous Board to consider stepping down or recuse themselves from the budget process. President Sproat said that The Board was contractually required to consider the non-renewal of Dr. Marcelo’s contract. Mr. Novak said that the non-renewal was part of the process of budget review. Mr. Nowik concurred. Mrs. Klint said she regrettably felt that the non-renewal was part of allowing the Interim Superintendent to proceed with restructuring.
Minutes of the Regular Board Meeting of January 12, 2016
Page 10 of 12
It was moved by LAMPERT and seconded by NOVAK to approve the non-renewal of an Administrative Contract. Voting Aye: Klint, Ko, Lampert, Nowik, Novak, Sproat The motion carried. XVI. Interim Superintendent’s Report Dr. Roloff said that Pizza Wars was approaching and that she hoped everyone would attend. She said that Coming Together in Skokie was beginning and that there was a press conference coming up. A letter would be sent to the community regarding PARCC testing. Principals’ Report Niles North – Dr. McTague commented Dr. McTague said that North was holding an AP Fair event to educate people about AP and how it can be useful to students. He thanks Bridget Connolly and Jerry Pope for their efforts. He said that on February 13 the school would be hosting a “Nothing But Net” VEX robotics event to highlight robotics. He said that North had become the premier school in the state in terms of robotics and thanked Angela Hankes and Rob Barton for their efforts. He added that the varsity bowling team had placed first in the CSL conference and that they were heading to the regional competition. Ms. Sproat congratulated Pankaj Sharma for speaking in Washington regarding a Supreme Court decision affecting union fees. Ann Goethals elaborated on his efforts. Niles West - Dr. Ness said asked Mr. Powell to describe West’s robotics team achievements in competitions. West finished first in a robotics tournament at Stevenson High School and received a number of team distinctions. Mr. Ness commended Tim Sullivan for his efforts with the team. He said that at the Curriculum & Activities Night would feature AP teachers showcasing the AP program. Mr. Ness showed a football from the NFL because a West alum had played in the Super Bowl. XVII. Board Members Comments Mr. Novak spoke about the gun range approved for a site near the District office as well as Niles West. He said that the judge overseeing the lawsuit against Niles was scheduled to rule on February 9 as to whether or not the suit can go forward. He urged The Board to take a formal opposition to the range via a resolution or letter to the Niles Trustees. He said that the previous Board, in conjunction with the teacher’s union, had drafted a letter of opposition that was sent to the Village of Niles, but that the current Board has done nothing. He asked The Board to take formal opposition to the range. President Sproat said that the District had been solicited for feedback on the range as a “resident” and not as a formal body. Mr. Novak said that some of The Board members had expressed support for taking action, and Ms. Lampert clarified that she said she would sign a letter. Mr. Novak said that The Board should take action. Mr. Ko agreed with Ms. Lampert that The Board had agreed to sign a letter, and Ms. Lampert said The Board had agreed to take no further action. President Sproat said that the letter had not been drafted yet and that he had met with a number of stakeholders in the range matter. Mr. Novak asked for a resolution in addition to a letter. President Sproat asked Mr. Novak to draft the letter on behalf of The Board of Education and Mr. Novak agreed. President Sproat said that taking any further formal action was prohibited by Board policy. XVIII. Board Committee Reports Mr. Novak said he went to the Ed-Red meeting. Mr. Trimberger summarized recent changes to state budget policy and how it would affect the District. He doubted that funding change policy proposed by the state would pass. XIX. Old Business There was no old business. XX. New Business There was no new business. XXI. Audience to Visitors (on items related to District business) There was no Audience to Visitors on District business.
Minutes of the Regular Board Meeting of January 12, 2016
Page 11 of 12
XXII. Information Items Monthly Financial Report – November 2015 FOIA (Freedom of Information Act) Requests XXIII. Closed Session It was moved by KLINT and seconded by LAMPERT to adjourn Closed Session at 8:53 p.m. A roll call vote was taken. Voting Aye: Klint, Ko, Lampert, Novak, Nowik, Sproat. The motion carried. XXIV.
Adjournment It was moved by NOVAK and seconded by KO to adjourn the meeting. A roll call vote was taken. Voting Aye: Klint, Ko, Lampert, Novak, Nowik, Sproat. The motion carried.
The meeting adjourned at 10:05 p.m.
_______________________________________ President
Minutes of the Regular Board Meeting of January 12, 2016
___________________________________ Secretary
Page 12 of 12
Special Meeting Minutes Board of Education Niles Township High Schools District 219 Cook County, Illinois January 21, 2016
I. Call to Order and Roll Call Board President Sproat called the meeting to order at 9:03 a.m. Board Members Present at Roll Call: Ruth Klint, Linda Lampert, Joseph Nowik, Mark Sproat. Board Members Absent at Roll Call: Carlton Evans, David Ko, Brian Novak. II. Open Session It was moved by LAMPERT and seconded by NOWIK to go into Open Session at 9:04 a.m. III.
The pledge was recited.
IV. President Sproat welcomed everyone to the Special Board meeting and described the order of this meeting. V. Audience to Visitors No one asked to speak. VI. Business Closed Session It was moved by KLINT and seconded by NOWIK to consider the appointment, employment, compensation, discipline, performance or dismissal of specific employees of the Board and/or legal counsel for the Board and pending or probable/imminent litigation. A roll call vote was taken. Voting Aye: Klint, Lampert, Nowik, Sproat. The motion carried. The Board recessed into Closed Session at 9:08 a.m. VII. Open Session It was moved by LAMPERT and seconded by NOWIK to return to open session. A roll call vote was taken. Voting Aye: Klint, Lampert, Nowik, Sproat. The motion carried. The meeting adjourned to open session at 10:21 a.m. VIII. President Sproat made the following statement: Dr. Mark Friedman was offered the position of Interim Superintendent at Niles Township High School District 219. A press release will go out today. It was moved by KLINT and seconded by NOWIK to approve the contract with Dr. Mark Friedman for the position of Interim Superintendent of Niles township High School District 219. A roll call vote was taken. Voting Aye: Klint, Lampert, Nowik, Sproat. The motion carried. Minutes of the Special Board Meeting of January 21, 2016
Page 1 of 2
IX. Adjournment It was moved by LAMPERT and seconded by KLINT to adjourn the meeting. A roll call vote was taken. Voting Aye: Klint, Lampert, Nowik, Sproat. The motion carried. The meeting adjourned at 10:22 a.m.
_______________________________________ President
Minutes of the Special Board Meeting of January 21, 2016
___________________________________ Secretary
Page 2 of 2
Special Meeting Minutes Board of Education Niles Township High Schools District 219 Cook County, Illinois January 28, 2016
I. Call to Order and Roll Call Board President Sproat called the meeting to order at 4:14 p.m. Board Members Present at Roll Call: Carlton Evans, Ruth Klint, David Ko (5:15 p.m.), Linda Lampert, Brian Novak, Joseph Nowik, Mark Sproat. Board Members Absent at Roll Call: David Ko II. Open Session It was moved by LAMPERT and seconded by NOVAK to go into Open Session at 4:14 p.m. III.
The pledge was recited.
IV. President Sproat welcomed everyone to the Special Board meeting and described the order of this meeting. V. Audience to Visitors No one asked to speak. VI. Business Closed Session It was moved by NOWIK and seconded by KLINT to consider the appointment, employment, compensation, discipline, performance or dismissal of specific employees of the Board. A roll call vote was taken. Voting Aye: Evans, Klint, Lampert, Novak, Nowik, Sproat. The motion carried. The Board recessed into Closed Session at 4:15 p.m. VII. Open Session It was moved by KLINT and seconded by SPROAT to return to open session. A roll call vote was taken. Voting Aye: Evans, Klint, Lampert, Novak, Nowik, Sproat. Mr. Sproat. The motion carried. The meeting adjourned to open session at 5:20 p.m. VIII. Adjournment It was moved by NOWIK and seconded by EVANS to adjourn the meeting. A roll call vote was taken. Voting Aye: Evans, Klint, Lampert, Novak, Nowik, Sproat. The motion carried.
Minutes of the Special Board Meeting of January 28, 2016
Page 1 of 2
The meeting adjourned at 5:20 p.m.
_______________________________ President
Minutes of the Special Board Meeting of January 28, 2016
____________________________ Secretary
Page 2 of 2
To:
Dr. Mark Friedman Board of Education
From:
Eric Trimberger
Date:
February 9, 2016
Re:
Donation of Vehicles
A donation to the Niles West High School automotive program of a 2000 Mercedes Benz ML-320 was made by Ms. Penny Kezios. A donation to the Niles West High School automotive program of a 1986 Cadillac Deville was made by Barry Wicker. MOTION: I move we accept the donation from Penny Kezios of a 2000 Mercedes Benz ML-320 and the donation from Barry Wicker of a 1986 Cadillac Deville for use in the automotive program at Niles West.
To:
Dr. Mark Friedman Board of Education
From:
Eric Trimberger
Date:
February 9, 2016
Re:
Donation to Niles North’s counseling department
A $5,000 donation to the Niles North’s counseling department was made by Raisa Lieberman of the Golf Mill Pharmacy. MOTION: I move to accept the donation from Raisa Lieberman of $5,000 to the Niles North counseling department.
Niles Township High Schools
To:
Dr. Mark Friedman Board of Education
From:
Eric Trimberger
Date:
February 9, 2016
Re:
Permanent lnterfund Transfer of Monies from the Educational Fund to Capital Projects Fund
The Board of Education adopted an amended Fiscal Year 2016 budget at the January 12, 2016 Board meeting. The budget included the transfer of $10 Million from the Educational Fund to the Capital Projects Fund to pay for projects the Board approved under the Five-Year Capital Plan. The Administration is recommending that the Board of Education approve the transfer at this time. MOTION: I move that the Board of Education approve the resolution authorizing the permanent interfund transfer of monies from the Educational Fund to the Capital Projects Fund.
BOARD OF EDUCATION OF NILES TOWNSHIP HIGH SCHOOL DISTRICT 219, COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE PERMANENT INTERFUND TRANSFER OF MONIES FROM THE EDUCATIONAL FUND TO THE CAPITAL PROJECTS FUND WHEREAS, there is a sum of money in the Educational Fund for which the Board of Education of Niles Township High School District 219, (hereinafter referred to as the "Board") does not have a need at this time; and WHEREAS, there is a need for additional money in the Capital Projects Fund; and WHEREAS, pursuant to Section 23 of the Illinois Administrative Code (23 lAC 100.50), the Board of Education is authorized to transfer from the Educational Fund to the Capital Projects Fund. WHEREAS, Section 23 of Illinois Administrative Code requires that any money transferred pursuant to its provisions must be done when revenues or other sources of funds are pledged to pay for a capital project or acquisition, and WHEREAS, the Board of Education determines that it is in the best interests of the District to transfer money from the Educational Fund to the Capital Projects Fund. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the Board of Education, Niles Township High School District No. 219, Cook County, Illinois, as follows: Section 1:
This Board of Education hereby finds that all of the recitals contained in the
preambles to this resolution are full, true, and correct and does hereby incorporate them into this resolution by reference. Section 2.
The School District Treasurer is authorized and directed to permanently transfer
from the Educational Fund to the Capital Projects Fund the sum of Ten Million Dollars ($10,000,000) (the "Transfer Amount"), to be used for capital projects of the District. Section 3:
The President and Secretary of this Board of Education are hereby authorized and
directed to execute this resolution and cause a certified copy of the same to be filed with the Township School Treasurer.
Section 5:
This Resolution shall be in full force and effect upon its adoption.
Adopted this 9th day of February, 2016. AYES:__________________________________ NAYS: ABSTAIN:_______________________________ ABSENT:________________________________________
BOARD OF EDUCATION, NILES TOWNSHIP HIGH SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 219, COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS
By:___________________________________ President, Board of Education
Attest:______________________________ Secretary, Board of Education
STATE OF ILLINOIS COUNTY OF COOK
) ) ss: )
CERTIFICATION OF RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE PERMANENT INTERFUND TRANSFER OF MONIES FROM THE EDUCATIONAL FUND TO THE CAPITAL PROJECTS FUND
I, the undersigned, do hereby certify that I am the duly qualified and acting Secretary of the Board of Education (the "Board") of Township High School District No. 219, Cook County, Illinois (the "District"), and that such official I am the keeper of the records and files of the Board and the District. I do further certify that the forgoing constitutes a full, true and complete transcript of the minutes of the meeting of the Board held on the 9th day of February, 2016, insofar as the same relates to the adoption of a Resolution entitled; RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE INTERFUND TRANSFER OF MONIES FROM THE EDUCATIONAL FUND TO THE CAPITAL PROJECTS FUND
are true, correct and complete copy of which said Resolution as adopted at said meeting appears in the foregoing transcript of the minutes of said meeting. I do further certify that the deliberations of the Board on the adoption of said Resolution were conducted openly, that the vote on the adoption of said Resolution was taken openly, that said meeting was held at a specified time and place convenient to the public, that notice of said meeting was duly given to all of the news media requesting such notice, that said meeting was called and held in strict compliance with the provisions of the Open Meetings Act of the State of Illinois, as amended, and with the provisions of the School Code of the State of Illinois, as amended, and that the Board has complied with all the provisions of said Act and said Code and with all of the procedural rules of the Board in the conduct of said meeting and in the adoption of said Resolution. ' IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I hereunto affix my official signature, this 9 th day of February, 2016.
Secretary, Board of Education
Niles Township High Schools
To:
Dr. Mark Friedman Board of Education
From:
Eric Trimberger
Date:
February 9, 2016
Re:
Permanent lnterfund Transfer of Monies from the Operations & Maintenance Fund to Capital Projects Fund
The Board of Education adopted an amended Fiscal Year 2016 budget at the January 12, 2016 Board meeting. The budget included the transfer of $8 Million from the Operations & Maintenance Fund to the Capital Projects Fund to pay for projects the Board approved under the Five-Year Capital Plan. The Administration is recommending that the Board of Education approve the transfer at this time. MOTION: I move that the Board of Education approve the resolution authorizing the permanent interfund transfer of monies from the Operations & Maintenance Fund to the Capital Projects Fund.
BOARD OF EDUCATION OF NILES TOWNSHIP HIGH SCHOOL DISTRICT 219, COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE PERMANENT INTERFUND TRANSFER OF MONIES FROM THE OPERATIONS & MAINTENANCE FUND TO THE CAPITAL PROJECTS FUND WHEREAS, there is a sum of money in the Operations & Maintenance Fund for which the Board of Education of Niles Township High School District 219, (hereinafter referred to as the "Board") does not have a need at this time; and WHEREAS, there is a need for additional money in the Capital Projects Fund; and WHEREAS, pursuant to Section 23 of the Illinois Administrative Code (23 lAC 100.50), the Board of Education is authorized to transfer from the Operations & Maintenance Fund to the Capital Projects Fund. WHEREAS, Section 23 of Illinois Administrative Code requires that any money transferred pursuant to its provisions must be done when revenues or other sources of funds are pledged to pay for a capital project or acquisition, and WHEREAS, the Board of Education determines that it is in the best interests of the District to transfer money from the Operations & Maintenance Fund to the Capital Projects Fund. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the Board of Education, Niles Township High School District No. 219, Cook County, Illinois, as follows: Section 1:
This Board of Education hereby finds that all of the recitals contained in the
preambles to this resolution are full, true, and correct and does hereby incorporate them into this resolution by reference. Section 2.
The School District Treasurer is authorized and directed to permanently transfer
from the Operations & Maintenance Fund to the Capital Projects Fund the sum of Eight Million Dollars ($8,000,000) (the "Transfer Amount"), to be used for capital projects of the District.
Section 3:
The President and Secretary of this Board of Education are hereby authorized and
directed to execute this resolution and cause a certified copy of the same to be filed with the Township School Treasurer. Section 5:
This Resolution shall be in full force and effect upon its adoption.
Adopted this 9th day of February, 2016. AYES:___________________________________ NAYS: ABSTAIN: ABSENT:
______________ ___________
BOARD OF EDUCATION, NILES TOWNSHIP IDGH SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 219, COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS
By:__________________________________ President, Board of Education
Attest:________________________________ Secretary, Board of Education
STATE OF ILLINOIS COUNTY OF COOK
) ) ss: )
CERTIFICATION OF RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE PERMANENT INTERFUND TRANSFER OF MONIES FROM THE OPERATIONS & MAINTENANCE FUND TO THE CAPITAL PROJECTS FUND I, the undersigned, do hereby certify that I am the duly qualified and acting Secretary of the Board of Education (the "Board") of Township High School District No. 219, Cook County, Illinois (the "District"), and that such official I am the keeper of the records and files of the Board and the District. I do further certify that the forgoing constitutes a full, true and complete transcript of the minutes of the meeting of the Board held on the 9th day of February, 2016, insofar as the same relates to the adoption of a Resolution entitled; RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE INTERFUND TRANSFER OF MONIES FROM THE OPERATIONS & MAINTENANCE FUND TO THE CAPITAL PROJECTS FUND are true, correct and complete copy of which said Resolution as adopted at said meeting appears in the foregoing transcript of the minutes of said meeting. I do further certify that the deliberations of the Board on the adoption of said Resolution were conducted openly, that the vote on the adoption of said Resolution was taken openly, that said meeting was held at a specified time and place convenient to the public, that notice of said meeting was duly given to all of the news media requesting such notice, that said meeting was called and held in strict compliance with the provisions of the Open Meetings Act of the State of Illinois, as amended, and with the provisions of the School Code of the State of Illinois, as amended, and that the Board has complied with all the provisions of said Act and said Code and with all of the procedural rules of the Board in the conduct of said meeting and in the adoption of said Resolution. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I hereunto affix my official signature, this 9 th day of February, 2016.
Secretary, Board of Education
Niles Township High Schools
To:
Dr. Mark Friedman Board of Education
From:
Eric Trimberger
Date:
February 9, 2016
Re:
Permanent Interfund Transfer of Monies from the Educational Fund to Debt Service Fund
The Board of Education adopted an amended Fiscal Year 2016 budget at the January 12, 2016 Board meeting. The budget included the transfer of $5.3 Million from the Educational Fund to the Debt Service Fund to pay for $5.3 Million abatement the Board approved as part of the 2014 Tax Levy. The Administration is recommending that the Board of Education approve the transfer at this time. MOTION: I move that the Board of Education approve the resolution authorizing the permanent interfund transfer of monies from the Educational Fund to the Debt Service Fund.
BOARD OF EDUCATION OF NILES TOWNSHIP HIGH SCHOOL DISTRICT 219, COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE PERMANENT INTERFUND TRANSFER OF MONIES FROM THE EDUCATIONAL FUND TO THE DEBT SERVICE FUND WHEREAS, there is a sum of money in the Educational Fund for which the Board of Education of Niles Township High School District 219, (hereinafter referred to as the "Board") does not have a need at this time; and WHEREAS, there is a need for additional money in the Debt Service Fund; and WHEREAS, pursuant to Section 23 of the Illinois Administrative Code (23 lAC 100.50), the Board of Education is authorized to transfer from the Educational Fund to the Debt Service Fund. WHEREAS, Section 23 of Illinois Administrative Code requires that any money transferred pursuant to its provisions must be done when revenues or other sources of funds are pledged to pay for debt service, and WHEREAS, the Board of Education determines that it is in the best interests of the District to transfer money from the Educational Fund to the Debt Service Fund. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the Board of Education, Niles Township High School District No. 219, Cook County, Illinois, as follows: Section 1:
This Board of Education hereby finds that all of the recitals contained in the
preambles to this resolution are full, true, and correct and does hereby incorporate them into this resolution by reference. Section 2.
The School District Treasurer is authorized and directed to permanently transfer
from the Educational Fund to the Debt Service Fund the sum of Five Million Three Hundred Thousand Dollars ($5,300,000) (the "Transfer Amount"), to be used for debt service of the District. Section 3:
The President and Secretary of this Board of Education are hereby authorized and
directed to execute this resolution and cause a certified copy of the same to be filed with the Township School Treasurer.
Section 4:
This Resolution shall be in full force and effect upon its adoption.
Adopted this 9th day of February, 2016. AYES:__________________________________ NAYS: ABSTAIN:_______________________________ ABSENT:________________________________
BOARD OF EDUCATION, NILES TOWNSHIP HIGH SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 219, COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS
By: President, Board of Education
Attest:________________________________ Secretary, Board of Education
STATE OF ILLINOIS COUNTY OF COOK
) ) ss: )
CERTIFICATION OF RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE PERMANENT INTERFUND TRANSFER OF MONIES FROM THE EDUCATIONAL FUND TO THE DEBT SERVICE FUND
I, the undersigned, do hereby certify that I am the duly qualified and acting Secretary of the Board of Education (the "Board") of Township High School District No. 219, Cook County, Illinois (the "District"), and that such official I am the keeper of the records and files of the Board and the District. I do further certify that the forgoing constitutes a full, true and complete transcript of the minutes of the meeting of the Board held on the 9th of February, 2016, insofar as the same relates to the adoption of a Resolution entitled; RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE INTERFUND TRANSFER OF MONIES FROM THE EDUCATIONAL FUND TO THE DEBT SERVICE FUND
are true, correct and complete copy of which said Resolution as adopted at said meeting appears in the foregoing transcript of the minutes of said meeting. I do further certify that the deliberations of the Board on the adoption of said Resolution were conducted openly, that the vote on the adoption of said Resolution was taken openly, that said meeting was held at a specified time and place convenient to the public, that notice of said meeting was duly given to all of the news media requesting such notice, that said meeting was called and held in strict compliance with the provisions of the Open Meetings Act of the State of Illinois, as amended, and with the provisions of the School Code of the State of Illinois, as amended, and that the Board has complied with all the provisions of said Act and said Code and with all of the procedural rules of the Board in the conduct of said meeting and in the adoption of said Resolution. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I hereunto affix my official signature, this 9th day of February, 2016.
Secretary, Board of Education
Administrative Compensation
World Languages Presentation
Heartland Health Center
District 219 Administrative Center 7700 Gross Point Road Skokie, IL 60077 Tel. 847 626 3000 Fax. 847 626 3090 www.niles-hs.k12.il.us
To: From: Date: Re:
Board of Education Anne Roloff, Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction February 9, 2016 Communications Department Report
The Union and Administration recently conducted an extensive review of the Communications Department, as a follow up to the grievance filed by the Union last fall. Below is a summary of the interviews, followed by information about the process, questions, collected responses, the original grievance, the response, and department data.
Summary of Communications Department Interviews ●
● ● ● ● ●
● ●
The vast majority of those interviewed did not feel that the Communications Department had any effect on students or programs this year. ○ Most people cited a lack of direction, poorly articulated structure and goals for the new department. The majority of those interviewed did not think that a stand-alone Communications Department is necessary. Some of those interviewed did think that a Communications Department under the umbrella of a larger department, specifically Humanities, was a good idea. There is an inequity in facilities between North and West. If a Communications Department exists, then the Board needs to address the inequities in facilities, technology, and clerical staff. There is a lot of confusion regarding credits and requirements not matching up with the department structures. (Public Speaking requirement available in 3 departments: Fine & Applied Arts, Humanities, and Communications). Not all Communications courses meet the public speaking requirement. Most teachers saw drawbacks to working in 2 departments, including evaluation, financial issues, extra meetings, multiple supervisors, etc. Some thought that a Communications Department could benefit students and programs, given appropriate planning and articulation of department goals, structures, and clerical support. ○ More attention to the program ○ More advocacy ○ College and career continuity
○
Incorporates 21st century literacies and technology skills that are essential for future success
If the Board chooses to continue with a stand alone Communications Department, it was suggested by several stakeholders that the following be considered:
ߛ creation and articulation of department goals and mission statement with input from directors and teachers ߛ attention to distinct needs of a separate department with significant technology, transportation and support requirements ߛ respect for the financial commitment necessary for a stand-alone department with several different, and frequently co-curricular classes with a broader spectrum of needs and support
Appendix A: Communications Department Interviews All teachers and administrators received this in advance of the interviews. These questions were developed together by the Union and Administration. Communications Department Interviews Thank you for your willingness to participate in this interview and to provide this committee with your input on the Communications Department. We are here today to gather information about the efficacy of the Communications Department and to present our findings to the Board of Education to assist in their decision of whether to keep this department for next school year. This review process came about through the resolution of a grievance filed by the union over the manner in which the communications department was created and staffed. That grievance was entirely based on the process used in creating the department and appointing the directors and was not at all aimed at any individuals involved in the change. Your input is valued by this committee and will be presented faithfully to the Board. Our report will express your input broadly, summarizing your comments and sentiments in the context of the entire group of Communication Department members. Comments will not be specifically attributed to individual members in the report to the Board, nor will your comments be heard or seen by others than the four of us, so we hope that you will feel free to provide your input freely and honestly. Do you have any questions before we get started?
Questions 1. How has the Communications Department changed the services and opportunities for the students in D219? 2. How has your program been changed as a result of the creation of this new department? 3. Explain whether or not you think there should be a stand-alone Communications Department separate from Humanities. Why or why not? 4. What are the benefits and/or drawbacks of working in two departments? 5. Is there anything we should have asked that you would like to share?
Appendix B: Collected responses to interview questions
How has the Communications Department changed the services and opportunities for the students in D219? ●
It has not. (9 responses.)
●
Having a common core, relating the courses to the common core. A communication department offers more time for collaboration for the staff.
●
I think that my own program has changed in a very good way. For example, with the budget cuts this year, having a real department allowed us to have input and to manage those cuts and keep the program running. Under the humanities department, there really wasn’t time to discuss the debate program and consider its unique needs. Course selection and FTE predictions will also be handled better with a comm dept.
●
Most important it has allowed advocacy that wasn’t there before. It provides for further professional development for staff. It also puts the programs front and center. Helps to increase the number of students of color. It has allowed for the advocacy to happen. The creation of the communication department helps draw attention to the discipline.
●
I see courses connecting to college and careers. Services and opportunities have not changed that much.
●
At the program and course level, it is pretty much the same, but the packaging is different. As a result, the kids taking these courses are better able to see how these courses relate to their future in college and careers.
●
As for my professional duties, it has had a serious negative impact and I cannot stress that enough. I have to work with a variety of directors and clerical staff to get things done.
●
Ivan has done a terrific job but his hands are tied.
●
Much of the work has been shifted to me this year.
●
The director is in publication and it has benefited the program immensely. The director understands what she does because he his also teaches a similar class. The director works with her to develop a different model of production. The director’s expertise in the area is a great help.
●
The biggest way it has changed is that Ivan has more flexibility to help students in all classes. It has helped tremendously in yearbook. It really helped me as a new person in
this role. It is great because it gives students leadership roles. Having the Com dept have the students feel like they have a department of their own, similar to the fine arts department. ●
Ivan has more flexibility to help more students in all classes. Has freed him up to be an advisor in those programs.
●
Is really great because it makes the students in our courses feel a part of a the dept.
●
In terms of class offerings, no change. Ivan’s unique talents have been able to affect more students and community members. He has more time to do more work like videos for Coming Together in Skokie.
●
There is tons of room to grow. You could offer more classes like ipod classes, and other classes. We are at the base of what a communications department could look like. We could give students tools to communicate in the 20th century.
●
It raises a lot of question, not with a value associated with them. This year it has not really changed anything for the students. There are a lot of things that I am not sure of. It could change things in terms of requirements, the curriculum and the direction of curriculum.
Do you have thoughts about how the Communications Department could further change services and opportunities for students? ●
There is so much technology to keep up with, there is a certain financial commitment that has to happen to keep the kids up to date. When communications is in a larger department there may be concerns that may not get addressed. Being part of a smaller department may provide more support.
●
Keeping it in a smaller dept (AS&T or Communications) would probably work better for this program than being part of Humanities.
●
I don’t know how having a stand alone department facilitates the creation of opportunities for students. It is not a criticism of anyone.
●
Nothing. I haven’t done anything different and I cannot imagine doing anything different no matter what department I am in.
●
I have always said that I don’t think that the idea itself is a horrible idea. Given the number of courses in that program I don’t think that this district needs a separate
department with its own director. Having a communications dept under the humanities dept would help bring more attention to our courses and it would be good to have someone who understands our programs. The current humanities dept is very big. I will say that Eric has been really trying to advocate for us. ●
At the class level, hit hasn't changed much. It's about nomenclature. The work we do is the same. Possibilities of branching outside.
●
One would be a college credit option, two would be employment opportunities within the community.
●
Bring together northstar, broadcasting and journalism. Students would be able to see the connectivity between the different courses. In addition, developing similar grading systems across Northstar, broadcasting and journalism.
●
With getting the mission for the communications department down, it would be helpful. The department has confused families and students because not all courses communications count towards the requirement. The amount of money provided is the same. The message of effective communication has been lost becoming more glossy.
●
Getting the mission for the dept down would be helpful. It currently creates a lot of confusion. Students focus on requirements (e.g. public speaking), not the dept. We have a lot to be proud of in regards to how much money is funnelled into this dept. The message about effective communication is being lost, it is being swallowed up by technology
●
It could lead to a lot of clarity and how we communicate in today’s world. It could increase the modes and modalities of how our student communicate. It could create some confusion for them. There is a lot of writing in public speaking right now. Some students might get confused thinking that the writing portion shouldn’t be required in public speaking. What credits the students receive for the different classes could be confusing. Is the class an English class or is it a Communication credit.
●
It could increase opportunities for students by incorporating 21st century communications modes into the curriculum. It could cause some confusion for students in terms of credits and requirements
●
If the programs expanded it could further opportunities for students. With cocurricular it could increase opportunities. I haven’t come up with any courses that have to be classified as communication courses. It is very tough for students to take more courses.
●
I don’t know what those courses might be.
○
The problem for the department is that it is competing with the other programs that fulfill a graduation requirement.
●
There is a lot of bureaucracy and logistics surrounding debate, yearbook, broadcasting. technology needs, business office systems and forms, etc. Potentially there could be some streamlining done. It has not happened this year. Instead of different people figuring out one person. There is potential streamlining that could be done within our system with a Comm. Dept.
●
It would be helpful if the communication were to continue for there to be more clarity. If there is a stand alone department if there could be a communications requirement. There needs to be more clerical support. There needs to be specific clerical report. I have to share three secretaries. The department is inefficient and has created more work for the members of the department. For example, I am involved in scheduling for the department which is now being done by the humanities department. I didn’t see the need the department. I don’t dislike being in the department. I felt supported in the humanities department. I have to do more work to get this department off the ground.
How has your program been changed as a result of the creation of this new department? ●
No change. (7 responses.)
●
There has been a positive change. There is more more advocacy. Conversations were not happening on how to improve and grow journalism, debate, yearbook, etc. Because there is a department for communications those conversation are happening.
●
College credit option; AP-level course, employment opportunities in community; work/study, etc
●
This is my first year teaching journalism so I don’t have a basis to identify any changes.
●
The public speaking requirement is confusing because it can be satisfied in a number of departments.
●
With a smaller program (partly due to push for AP enrollment) we had to make big changes to how the yearbook was produced. Ivan was a great help in those changes (note: even before he was her director, he worked with her due to his skill and experience in her area).
Explain whether or not you think there should be a stand-alone Communications Department separate from Humanities. Why or why not? ●
No. (9 responses.)
●
Yes. There is a reason and should be a reason to have a stand-alone to group the courses together. Pulling the public speaking required class out prepares students for college. It allows leadership over courses that have a lot of kids and funding. They need the oversight. If the department were not to be a stand alone, it should be part of Fine and Applied Arts. You might want to have an assistant director for Fine and Applied Arts who would oversee the communication classes (i.e. broadcasting, debate, etc)
●
Yes, with a caveat. The courses make sense together, and since there is now a public speaking requirement and those courses were in different departments, it would be good to have a stand-alone department (see reasons above). If there were not to be a stand-alone, I think it makes more sense in the Fine Arts-Applied Arts dept.
●
Yes, there should be. Having a comm dept helps to focus on the issue of equity and gets students to think about those options (courses in our dept) as a career. The broadcasting classes are extremely diverse.
●
I see how it fits into Humanities. I think it would be best if it fit under the Humanities umbrella with Ivan as an assistant director, like Dahlberg is for History. I cannot see what benefits there are for students if it were a stand alone dept. We don’t have clerical support; he cannot evaluate teachers.
●
I see the communications dept in name only
●
I can see the pros and cons. It takes time to make a change. The staff needs to know why the change is being made. It has never been explained the reason for having a separate department. There has only been one meeting. At that time the department was told that the School Board wanted the department. I can’t support a department that I don’t know its purpose. It has never been articulated.
●
I no longer evaluate Ivan (but he does evaluate his other assistants). I will have to work closely with Ivan on scheduling. Having a comm dept complicates scheduling for me.
●
It depends on the goals of school and does it line up with the goals. There is a lot of overlap. Are we devaluing some of the classes. Is journalism communication or is it an
English class. I think that the emerging of Humanities and then the creation of the Communications department may be too much change happening too quickly. ●
It’s my third year here so I am open minded to whatever the school wants to do. With the recent merging of History and English, and now communications, I think that it has been very confusing.
●
I can’t answer yes or no because I haven’t seen a change.
What are the benefits and/or drawbacks of working in two departments? ●
No benefits. (2 responses.)
●
I felt very supported by the Humanities dept.
●
There has been one communication department meeting. No benefits or drawbacks to being in two departments.
●
Who is doing the observations was the biggest issue this year. Eric was going to interview me, then it was Sanlida, then it was Michael.
●
Drawbacks, though they have done a good job of not having us go to a lot of meetings, there is that potential. There are two different people that I have to report to, different people to evaluate me. The only benefit that could occur does not really apply because my program is so unusual that I don’t really collaborate with others in that department and those who I would collaborate with are already in the humanities department so I see them in the office anyway.
●
Pros - brings over skills from other departments. For example, having an English teacher in communications pays more attention to grammar.
●
Cons - logistical - Do I have to go to two different department meetings, who tells me what to do?
●
One positive is that it is easy to get ahold of someone; Ivan has been awesome at getting back to me. A drawback is that it creates confusion.
●
It can be confusing to have two directors. For example, who disseminates the information. It has not negatively affected her.
●
Drawbacks include two directors, leads to confusion, more meetings (though Ivan has only held one meeting to be respectful of our time - so it has not negatively impacted me). She also made clear that she is happy with the change specifically because of who
her director is: he has skills and experience in her program, and he has worked hard to work effectively with other programs under the Comm. Dept. that he did not have experience in. ●
It is nice to have someone whose attention is on this particular department as opposed to going to a Humanities director who is stretched thin.
●
It has changed my life immensely because I see the students in a different light. I have two department meetings. It has been really great that I have been able to have a greater influence because the department is smaller. I have been able to have more contact with my director.
●
I have never had to work in two different departments. I feel like I am in one department because I haven’t had to go to any communication department meetings. Drawbacks would be twice as many meetings, two different directors, etc.
●
Having a number of different bosses, what does it mean in terms of sixth assignments? How do I spend my time working on curriculum. The benefit of having the additional support and input has been helpful. However, it can be a drawback.
●
For me, it has been more of a negative. I don’t know what it means to me and what is expected of me.
●
The benefit of having the two those courses can be pointed two as being different. I like that we are highlighting that there is something different. It is a little weird. Do I ask Ivan, do I ask Tony? The benefit is that you get to speak to the classes in their own special positions.
●
I cannot answer yes or no because it has not led to any changes or interfered with anything - it is just a matter of semantics.
●
The benefit is that by having its own department those courses get more attention and I like that there is a highlighting of those as different or important. I has been a bit of a drawback because it is confusing.
●
A lot of people thought that if because there is the communication department, those classes in the department wouldn’t get the public speaking required credit. It increases confusion for teachers and students. You can get different credits from the communication department. For example, Broadcasting class gives credit that counts towards fine and practical arts credit.
●
There was confusion between the debate coach and the administrator in charge of debate in terms of release time.
Is there anything we should have asked that you would like to share?
●
From the point of view of equity between the building, Niles North has much better facilities for broadcasting. If there was a dedicated department, might make it more equitable between North and West.
●
There is a disparity between Niles North and Niles West - A communications department would allow for advocacy.
●
Limit the enrollment in the classes - perhaps a performance based class there should be a lower cap. We can have discussions about limiting class size for those classes because of the hands-on, activity nature of those classes. Also, there needs to be improvements in facilities, especially at West in broadcasting, and the dept can advocate for those facilities. Third, having a common core, relating it to learning targets, having a comm dept can allow teachers to collaborate and further best practice.
●
The idea of a department great one. I is just odd to find out a few days before school that there is a new department being created. Ivan has been great. I think it needs to be more streamlined.
●
We are facing increasing challenges. Sales have been down because of the socioeconomic factors. Ivan has really helped address these issues.
●
It is nice to have someone whose attention is on a smaller department.
●
Public speaking requirements. Perhaps there could be a communications requirement for graduation. These classes help students get prepared for college. Broadcasting fits with the public speaking requirement; some are suggesting that there be a communications requirement.
●
I met once with the director to provide what her expectation was for the department.
●
I was asked by my director at our only meeting what I thought the goals for the department should be and I thought that that question should have been asked before there was a department created.
●
It hasn’t been successful this year because we don’t know where this is going. If we had more time to work out where this is going it could be beneficial but for now it has more problems than benefits. It raises a lot of questions about credits for students and responsibilities for teachers.
●
How does this help them in their college career? These courses under the communications department because they are developing skills that are useful. They are helping them develop skills they are going to use in their future. Having a communications department puts an emphasis on the courses.
●
It has led to confusion about curriculum and requirements (is debate still a SS course? What counts as a public speaking requirement?) The dept. offers SS, English, and Applied Arts credits. That is confusing.
●
We have had to go through and re-answer issues and questions that have been worked through before.
●
It is inefficient and confusing to the administrator and the teacher to have teachers working in two departments (how much time do they spend in each? how do we handle late start time? department meeting time? etc.)
●
Broadly, having a stand alone department helps promote the idea that there are college fields and gets the students seeing those as possible career paths.
●
Debate responsibilities - I am in a support position. I meet weekly with Katie where we discuss budget issues. We also discuss other issues. For example, a parent showed up at a tournament.
●
I think it’s a great idea to have a communications dept., I agree that it was rushed and that it needs to be better planned, but there is great potential with this department.
●
Nothing to add, just to reiterate that I don’t think that it is really necessary for communications to have its own department.
●
What are the goals for a communication department. It seems like it was just thrown upon the school at the beginning of the year. The board needs to think about if this is what they want. The stakeholders need to be a part of the development of the department. Teachers under the communication department should be part of the process because the teachers are the ones running the programs. Consider having all students required to take a communications class. What is the goal of the department do you want more students to take these courses?
●
There were a lot of bad feelings by the way it went down. It has been a waste of energy and finances that could have been placed elsewhere. As they add more requirements.
●
I think it created a lot of bad will. Whatever the board wants to do I’ll go along with. I think that it is a big waste of money and resources.
●
The way it became about was an issue. Everything that I would expect from a director Eric was able to do.
Appendix F: Communications Department sections, enrollments, and staffing
NILES TOWNSHIP HIGH SCHOOL DISTRICT #219 FINANCIAL REPORT DECEMBER 2015
REVENUE FUND 10 - EDUCATIONAL 20 - O & M 30 - DEBT SERVICE 40 - TRANSPORT 50 - IMRF/FICA 60 - CAPITAL PROJECTS 70 - WORKING CASH 81 - TORT 90 - LIFE SAFETY Grand Total
FY16 AMENDED BUDGET $ 125,509,578.00 $ $ 21,347,414.00 $ $ 11,434,505.00 $ $ 5,220,916.00 $ $ 5,992,664.00 $ $ 22,004,523.00 $ $ 949,109.00 $ $ 2,260,375.00 $ $ 393,825.00 $ $ 195,112,909.00 $
FUND 10 - EDUCATIONAL 20 - O & M 30 - DEBT SERVICE 40 - TRANSPORT 50 - IMRF/FICA 60 - CAPITAL PROJECTS 70 - WORKING CASH 81 - TORT 90 - LIFE SAFETY Grand Total
FY16 AMENDED BUDGET $ 141,025,667.47 $ 20,389,333.32 $ 11,142,498.00 $ 11,218,585.41 $ 3,838,138.45 $ 19,852,642.00 $ 400,000.00 $ 4,878,158.56 $ 1,025,000.00 $ 213,770,023.21
FUND 10 - EDUCATIONAL 20 - O & M 30 - DEBT SERVICE 40 - TRANSPORT 50 - IMRF/FICA 60 - CAPITAL PROJECTS 70 - WORKING CASH 81 - TORT 90 - LIFE SAFETY Grand Total
BEG FUND BAL YTD REV $ 116,740,347.29 $ 52,093,785.84 $ 14,850,441.27 $ 9,534,079.02 $ 1,197,552.19 $ 3,428,347.64 $ 6,599,250.03 $ 1,405,146.71 $ 1,462,116.27 $ 2,709,534.95 $ 1,185,152.36 $ 1,168,198.53 $ 25,293,348.84 $ 426,276.52 $ 3,265,588.39 $ (18,370.06) $ 4,069,747.34 $ 27,065.43 $ 174,663,543.98 $ 70,774,064.58
MTD 1,660,898.45 142,662.01 7,923.95 453,534.00 21,422.26 33,543.11 (14,067.02) (2,153.35) 2,303,763.41
YTD $ 52,093,785.84 $ 9,534,079.02 $ 3,428,347.64 $ 1,405,146.71 $ 2,709,534.95 $ 1,168,198.53 $ 426,276.52 $ (18,370.06) $ 27,065.43 $ 70,774,064.58
$ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $
BALANCE 73,415,792.16 11,813,334.98 8,006,157.36 3,815,769.29 3,283,129.05 20,836,324.47 522,832.48 2,278,745.06 366,759.57 124,338,844.42
$ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $
PO's OUTSTANDING BALANCE 95,613,375.26 $ 4,541,606.93 10,759,457.17 $ 4,763,714.48 2,980,883.62 $ 1,948,306.82 $ 2,489,272.71 2,126,796.43 $ 7,116,828.87 $ 2,464,948.40 400,000.00 $ 1,376,569.99 $ 1,234,456.06 1,025,000.00 $ 123,347,218.16 $ 15,493,998.58
EXPENDITURES
$ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $
MTD 7,514,743.42 547,243.01 8,160,464.38 395,091.49 328,388.85 236,781.95 363,449.06 17,546,162.16
YTD $ 40,870,685.28 $ 4,866,161.67 $ 8,161,614.38 $ 6,781,005.88 $ 1,711,342.02 $ 10,270,864.73 $ $ 2,267,132.51 $ $ 74,928,806.47
FUND BALANCE YTD EXP END FUND BAL $ 40,870,685.28 $ 127,963,447.85 $ 4,866,161.67 $ 19,518,358.62 $ 8,161,614.38 $ (3,535,714.55) $ 6,781,005.88 $ 1,223,390.86 $ 1,711,342.02 $ 2,460,309.20 $ 10,270,864.73 $ (7,917,513.84) $ $ 25,719,625.36 $ 2,267,132.51 $ 980,085.82 $ $ 4,096,812.77 $ 74,928,806.47 $ 170,508,802.09
