February 24, 2015 at 6:00 PM - Board of Education Regular Meeting
Agenda |
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1. Early Childhood Program Expansion Grant Application
Rationale:
The Nebraska Department of Education is again offering funds to Early Childhood Programs in local communities. The Early Childhood Education Grant Program is intended to support the development of children in the birth to kindergarten age range through the provision of comprehensive center-based programs. In most cases the projects expand and/or combine existing pre-kindergarten programs funded through district, federal, or parent fees. Each project receives funding for up to one-half of the total operating budget of the project per year on a continuing basis, subject to availability of the funds. A public school or an educational service unit is the fiscal agent. Funded projects are required to operate in compliance with NDE Rule 11 Regulations for Early Childhood Education Grant Program. Rule 11 reflects research-based elements of quality early childhood education programs intended to produce strong outcomes for children. These funds will serve three and four-year-olds who qualify for participation in an inclusive environment. Services will be provided through a part-day (3.5 hours), five-day-a-week, center-based program, which greatly exceeds the minimum hour per week required by the Nebraska Department of Education. The staff will serve families using the program delivery model as is currently provided in existing school-based early childhood centers. The program is based on research and best practices in the field of early childhood and family systems. By embracing the child and family in a secure, nurturing culturally appropriate environment, the child’s growth and development will flourish. Research demonstrates that the best approach to serve the families of these young children is through quality preschool services to assist with transitions to kindergarten. The program emphasizes the core elements of family involvement through home visitation with an emphasis on family literacy that supports education as a core family value. The grant application is due to the Nebraska Department of Education by February 12, 2016. |
1. LPS BOARD OF EDUCATION INFORMATION
Rationale:
Notice of the time and place of the Lincoln Board of Education meeting was e-mailed to an extensive list of local and regional news media. A mailing list is maintained at the Lincoln Public Schools District Office. A public notice was published in the LINCOLN JOURNAL STAR.
The Lincoln Board of Education is empowered to act on any item listed on the Agenda at any time during the meeting, irrespective of the time or order listed. Pages listed, or further detail, are available upon request. The Open Meetings Act requires and the intention of the Board is that agenda items be sufficiently descriptive to give the public reasonable notice of the matters to be considered at the meeting. The Lincoln Board of Education releases its agenda well in advance of most meetings and desires that all interested persons are fully informed. Any interested person who has a question or needs clarification about the sufficiency of a descriptive item should contact the Office of the Superintendent of Schools. |
2. CALL TO ORDER
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3. ROLL CALL
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4. ANNOUNCE OPEN MEETING ACT POSTING AND LOCATION
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5. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Rationale:
The attached minutes are intended to accurately reflect the action of the Board at its previous meetings.
Explanation The minutes have been prepared for Board approval.
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6. SPECIAL REPORTS, PRESENTATIONS AND CELEBRATIONS OF SUCCESS
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6.1. Matt Larson, elected president of the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics
Rationale:
Matt Larson, math curriculum specialist for Lincoln Public Schools, has been elected president of the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics. The National Council is the public voice of mathematics education in our country, supporting teachers to ensure equitable mathematics learning of the highest quality for all students by providing vision, leadership, professional development and research. ExplanationMatt Larson, math curriculum specialist for Lincoln Public Schools, has been elected president of the prestigious National Council of Teachers of Mathematics. Larson will serve one year as president-elect before assuming the full duties of president for a two-year term beginning in the spring of 2016. As the curriculum specialist for math in Lincoln Public Schools, Larson has developed a culture of success for math students and teachers throughout our school district. In addition, his professional expertise and knowledge are recognized nation-wide. Larson participated on a team of LPS staff members interviewed by the American Institute for Research in a venture with the U.S. Department of Education. Larson spoke specifically to math success at LPS in connection to: the LPS partnership with the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, the school district’s commitment to professional development, and systemic math curriculum and learning that has led to significant student success. For instance, current LPS eighth-graders are passing Algebra at a 99 percent rate. In his statement to National Council members before the election, Larson said he aims to increase the professional development offerings for Council members, increase the Council’s engagement in public and political advocacy for high-quality teaching and learning of mathematics, and increase and sustain the membership of NCTM. LPS Curriculum Director Jadi Miller said Larson’s reputation around the country exemplifies his commitment to students and teachers: "Dr. Matt Larson is a national expert on mathematics curriculum and instruction, and Lincoln Public Schools is incredibly fortunate to have him as a part of our school district. Matt works tirelessly to improve learning opportunities for students at all levels. His emphasis on building capacity in teachers and administrators has resulted in a mathematics program that has been recognized around the country."
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6.2. Juvenile Diversion Program
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7. PUBLIC COMMENT
Rationale:
In keeping with Policy 8420, a time limit of five minutes will be allotted for any speaker. At the discretion of the Chair, the speaker may be allotted additional time.
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8. CONSENT AGENDA
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8.1. Human Resources Matters
Rationale:
Explanation: |
8.2. Routine Business
Rationale:
At each meeting, the Board of Education is asked to approve certain items of routine business of the school district.
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8.3. Option Enrollment Student Applications For 2015-16
Rationale:
On February 10, 2015, the Board adopted a resolution to accept option students for the 2015-16 school year. Applications have been received from students requesting that they be accepted as option students for the 2015-16 school year. Staff recommends that the students referred to in this agenda item be accepted for enrollment as they are in compliance with the Board resolution of February 10, 2015.
Explanation Staff has examined the applications of the students included in this proposal. The students meet one of the criteria set forth by the Board in its resolution of February 10, 2015. Staff recommends approval of these applications. Proposal That the Board adopt the following resolution: WHEREAS the students who have been assigned student numbers 277858, 292445, 275355, 402713, 402800, 402802, 402946, 277940, 248178, 254903, 287605, 401780, 275580, 263306, 403669, 403727, 275124, 212842, 403828, 278402, 403906, 403938, 275159, 278393, 205417, 246452, 404068, 240157, 404082, 404105, 296722, 202863, 195372 and 211007 (for purposes of confidentiality, assigned numbers are being used) meet one or more of the criteria of the Board resolution of February 10, 2015, with regard to such option students; THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the aforementioned students be accepted as option students on the condition and with the express understanding that all programs, all classes and all buildings of assignment, except as otherwise required by law, shall at all times and from time to time during attendance at Lincoln Public Schools be determined solely by Lincoln Public Schools.
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8.4. Late Request for Enrollment Option Out 2014-15
Rationale:
March 15, 2014, was the deadline for enrollment option applications to be completed for students wishing to attend school in a district other than the one in which they reside for the 2014-15 school year. The Lincoln Public Schools Board of Education has authority to waive the deadline for late enrollment option requests (NDE Rule 7, Section 004.05).
Explanation Request from a student who resides in the Lincoln Public Schools District and wishes to attend school outside of the Lincoln Public Schools District has been received after the March 15, 2014, deadline. The Lincoln Public Schools Board of Education may deny or approve this request. If this request is approved by the Board of Education, they will be forwarded to the option school district for their approval. Student Number Option District 404115 Raymond Central Proposal That the Board approve this request for option out for the 2014-15 school year.
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9. FIRST READING, ACTION AT NEXT MEETING
Rationale:
*The Lincoln Board of Education is empowered to act on any item listed on the Agenda at any time during the meeting, irrespective of the time or order listed. Pages listed, or further detail, are available upon request. The Open Meetings Act requires and the intention of the Board is that agenda items be sufficiently descriptive to give the public reasonable notice of the matters to be considered at the meeting. The Lincoln Board of Education Board releases its agenda well in advance of most meetings and desires that all interested persons are fully informed. Any interested person who has a question or needs clarification about the sufficiency of a descriptive item should contact the Office of the Superintendent of Schools.
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9.1. From Board Committees
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9.1.1. Technology Implementation Plan
Rationale:
In January 2015, the Board of Education adopted a technology resolution for the purpose of directing staff to develop a technology implementation plan within existing funding parameters, providing for appropriate staffing, proposing sufficient professional development and providing greatly expanded access to technology district-wide all in support of student learning.
Explanation The staff brings forth a technology implementation plan for Lincoln Public Schools. Proposal That the Board discuss the proposed technology implementation plan.
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9.1.2. Policies-4000 Series Edited
Rationale:
Following the review of the 4000 series of policies, Policies 4100, 4210, 4310, 4320, 4330, 4400, 4420, 4500, 4520, 4615, 4630, 4640, 4670, 4680, 4700, 4710, 4720, 4730, 4740, 4760, 4770, 4775, 4800, 4820-4860, 4870, 4880, 4890, 4900, 4910., 4930, 4950, and 4960 are recommended to remain in effect as written; and policies 4000, 4200, 4220, 4510, 4600, 4610, 4810, and 4910 are recommended to remain in effect with small edits that require correction but do not change the intent of the policies.
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9.1.3. Policy 4790-Notification of Arrest, Criminal Charges, Licensure, Child Abuse, Complaints, Etc.
Rationale:
Policy 4790 referenced a “next day” reporting requirement. The revised Policy 4790 references a “next business day” reporting requirement. This change in language reflects a more obvious intent of the policy and ensures that no one is found to have violated a policy because it was outside of their control. ExplanationThe revision of Policy 4790 clarifies language to better reflect the policy’s intent. Proposal That the Board discuss Policy 4790.
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9.1.4. Policy 6210-Program for Students, Middle School Course of Study, Grade Six, Seven, and Eight
Rationale:
Over time, policies can become out of date and need to be revised to reflect new conditions in the schools. The current middle level instructional program has changed. The language in 6210 has been adapted to allow the district to more effectively deliver its non-core curriculum and improve student outcomes. Explanation
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9.2. From the Superintendent
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9.2.1. Early Childhood Program Expansion Grant Application
Rationale:
The Nebraska Department of Education is again offering funds to Early Childhood Programs in local communities. The Early Childhood Education Grant Program is intended to support the development of children in the birth to Kindergarten age range through the provision of comprehensive center-based programs. In most cases the projects expand and/or combine existing pre-Kindergarten programs funded through district, federal, or parent fees. Each project receives funding for up to one-half of the total operating budget of the project per year on a continuing basis, subject to availability of the funds. A public school or an educational service unit is the fiscal agent. Funded projects are required to operate in compliance with NDE Rule 11 Regulations for Early Childhood Education Grant Program. Rule 11 reflects research-based elements of quality early childhood education programs intended to produce strong outcomes for children.
Explanation Lincoln Public Schools will provide high quality services for up to 72 children in four part-day, center-based classrooms through this grant. This program will ensure that each child enters a formal school setting with the same learning advantages as other children. Early childhood staff and partners will seek opportunities to promote the physical, social, emotional, cognitive, and language development of very young children and their families during these crucial early years. These funds will serve three and four-year-olds who qualify for participation in an inclusive environment. These services will be provided through a part-day (4 hours) center-based program in up to four new classes in Lincoln Public Schools elementary school buildings. The staff, who will be Lincoln Public Schools employees, will serve families using the same high quality approach as is currently provided in the school centers. The program is based on research and best practices in the field of early childhood and family systems. The child’s growth and development will flourish by supporting the child and family in a secure, nurturing, and culturally appropriate learning environment. Research demonstrates that the best approach to serve the families of these young children is through quality preschool services to assist with transitions to Kindergarten. The program would emphasize the core elements of family through home visitation with an emphasis on family literacy that supports education as a core family value. Proposal That the Board discuss the submission of this Early Childhood Expansion grant application for up to four additional part-day classes in the amount of $200,000 with a 100% match on basic grant only. The match will be provided through various grant funds that are already in place. An additional amount ($25,000) of grant funds will be used for start-up costs (no match required for start-up costs), dependent upon final award. The grant application is due to the Nebraska Department of Education March 13, 2015. |
10. SECOND READING, RECOMMENDED FOR ACTION
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10.1. From Board Committees
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10.2. From the Superintendent
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11. EXPEDITED/EMERGENCY ACTIONS
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12. ITEM(S) REMOVED FROM CONSENT AGENDA
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13. INFORMATIONAL ITEMS/REPORTS
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13.1. From Board Committees
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13.2. From The Career Academy
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13.3. From the Superintendent
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13.3.1. Superintendent Update
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13.3.2. Monthly Financial Report
Rationale:
At the second Board meeting of the month, information regarding the district’s monthly financial report is presented.
Explanation The monthly financial report for the month ending January 31, 2015, is attached. Proposal Information item; no Board action required.
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14. ANNOUNCEMENTS OF UPCOMING EVENTS FOR THE BOARD
Rationale:
March 3, Thank You Teacher Breakfast, 7:30 am, Governor's Mansion
March 4, Chamber Coffee, 8:00 am, Chamber Office March 9-13, Spring Break (No Board Meeting on March 10) March 11, TCA Joint Board Meeting, 11:00 am, SCC Lincoln Campus March 18, GNSA, 9:30 am, NCSA March 20-23, NSBA Annual Conference, Nashville, TN March 24, Board Meeting, 6:00 pm, LPSDO |
15. PUBLIC COMMENT
Rationale:
In keeping with Policy 8420, a time limit of five minutes will be allotted for any speaker. At the discretion of the Chair, the speaker may be allotted additional time.
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16. REQUEST FOR CLOSED SESSION
Rationale:
The Lincoln Board of Education is authorized by state statute to hold closed sessions. Closed sessions may be held when clearly necessary for the protection of the public interest or for the prevention of needless injury to the reputation of an individual. Reasons that meet this standard include but are not limited to: (a) strategy sessions with respect to collective bargaining, real estate matters, pending litigation, or litigation which is imminent as evidenced by communication of a claim or threat of litigation to or by the public body; (b) discussion regarding deployment of security personnel or devices; (c) investigative proceedings regarding allegations of criminal misconduct; (d) evaluation of the job performance of a person when necessary to prevent needless injury to the reputation of a person and if such person has not requested a public meeting; and (e) legal advice.
Explanation |
16.1. Request for Closed Session - Negotiations/Collective Bargaining, Property/Real Estate, Litigation, Security, Criminal Misconduct, Personnel, and Legal Advice Matters
Rationale:
The Lincoln Board of Education is authorized by state statute to hold closed sessions. Closed sessions may be held when clearly necessary for the protection of the public interest or for the prevention of needless injury to the reputation of an individual. Reasons that meet this standard include but are not limited to: (a) strategy sessions with respect to collective bargaining, real estate matters, pending litigation, or litigation which is imminent as evidenced by communication of a claim or threat of litigation to or by the public body; (b) discussion regarding deployment of security personnel or devices; (c) investigative proceedings regarding allegations of criminal misconduct; (d) evaluation of the job performance of a person when necessary to prevent needless injury to the reputation of a person and if such person has not requested a public meeting; and (e) legal advice.
Explanation
At this point, it is appropriate for the Board to meet in closed session for one of the stated matters and/or any other permissible closed session matters in compliance with the law. That the Board hold a closed session: 1. For strategy session with respect to negotiations/collective bargaining clearly necessary for the protection of the public interest or for the prevention of needless injury to the reputation of an individual in compliance with the law. 2. For strategy session with respect to property/real estate matters clearly necessary for the protection of the public interest or for the prevention of needless injury to the reputation of an individual in compliance with the law.
3. For strategy session with respect to pending litigation, or litigation which is imminent as evidenced by communication of a claim or threat of litigation to or by the public body clearly necessary for the protection of the public interest or for the prevention of needless injury to the reputation of an individual in compliance with the law.
4. For discussion regarding deployment of security personnel or devices clearly necessary for the protection of the public interest or for the prevention of needless injury to the reputation of an individual in compliance with the law.
5. For investigative proceedings regarding allegations of criminal misconduct clearly necessary for the protection of the public interest or for the prevention of needless injury to the reputation of an individual in compliance with the law.
6. For personnel and the evaluation of job performance clearly necessary for the protection of the public interest or for the prevention of needless injury to the reputation of an individual in compliance with the law.
7. For discussions of the legal consequences of specific action and legal advice clearly necessary for the protection of the public interest or for the prevention of needless injury to the reputation of an individual in compliance with the law. |
17. ADJOURNMENT
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