Regular Meeting February 21, 2011

Transcription

1 Regular Meeting February 21, 2011 The E.I.S.D. Board of Trustees met for a regular meeting on Monday, February 21, 2011, at 6:30 P.M. in the Barbara Novikoff Board Room at the Administration Building. Present at the meeting: Board Members: Ricky Burgess, Ruby Herring, Gary Balch, Lonzetta Smith-Allen, Charlie Baxter, Marilyn Hodge and Vicky Garza Administrators: Dr. Jeri Pfeifer, Joee Gainer, Cathy Sewell, Curtis Amos, Jennifer Samuel, Glenn Brown, Maggie Stevens, Phyllis Townsend, James King, Pat Brady, Nikita Russell, Mya Asberry, Colette Kotula, Nancy Kay, Janis Wilson, Felicia Donaldson, Nita Page, and Janet Snider Also present were recording Secretary Cherri Bentley, Janet Wynne, Mary Balch, Antonio Little, Kim Little, Rose Ann Phillips and several students and their parents and families. Ricky Burgess, Presiding Board President, called the meeting to order. Dr. Pfeifer gave the invocation. Mr. Burgess led the Pledge of Allegiance. Ricky Burgess announced that a quorum of Board members was present, that the meeting had been duly called and that notice of the meeting had been posted in accordance with the Texas Open Meetings Act, Texas Gov. Code 551. Student Spotlight Dr. Pfeifer welcomed everyone to the meeting and stated that these student spotlights always remind us of what the work we do is all about. She stated that she is thrilled to have the students and their families at the meeting and then introduced Cathy Sewell. Ms. Sewell reported that this is the last month of the Collaborative Dropout Reduction Pilot Program- Cycle 2 Grant and that AVID and CIS are two programs that were implemented through the grant. She introduced Ms. Kimberly Little, the program manager and High School teacher for AVID. Ms. Little stated that the Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID) program is very dear to her heart. She reported that the program shows students the way to get into college and prepares them with the skills they will need. She stated that AVID students have taken several college tours this year including visits to Baylor, Texas State University and University of North Texas. She reported that there were 63 students in the program last year and of that number 97% passed the TAKS reading exam and 79% passed the math exam. Ms. Little reported that there are 119 students in the program this year and introduced two of them, Peyton Harris and Mylia Houze. The students stated that the AVID group is like a family - always teaching and encouraging them to set higher goals and giving them the skills to achieve them. They stated that they have learned how to get organized and stay on track and that they are now taking pre-ap classes. Ms. Little introduced Ms. Kenya Evans, the project manager for Communities in Schools (CIS) at the High School and Lisa Wolf, program director. Ms. Wolf stated that CIS helps students stay in school and focus on their education. She reported that CIS provides a social worker at the High School and also helps families with food, clothing and transportation. She introduced Tiona Pratt and Tajuana Ivory-Pointer, two High School students, who stated that CIS and AVID have helped them tremendously in preparing for the future and focusing on college. Mr. Burgess asked that the students introduce their parents and family who were in the audience and the Board, Dr. Pfeifer and administrators congratulated and thanked the students and their families. Audience Items Mr. Burgess announced that no one in the audience had signed in to address the Board. Superintendent Report Construction Glenn Brown, construction project manager, summarized the projects in the district as follows: 1

2 High School Track Resurfacing Mr. Brown stated that after bids were received the District has tentatively selected a contractor pending Board approval later in the meeting. Johnson Sixth Grade Campus - Mr. Brown stated that the remodel at Johnson is progressing well. He stated that concrete has been poured, AC ducts installed, walls framed and some electrical work has been done. He stated that the District was able to get a contract with a vendor to secure the stability of the portables at Johnson for $6,800. High School Electrical - Mr. Brown stated that he was glad to report that the bids received came in lower than expected. He stated that, pending Board approval later in the meeting, work should begin as soon as school is out and would be done section by section so that other areas of the building could be in use while work was being done. Air Quality Monitoring Station Mr. Brown reported that TCEQ is now considering either an alternate plan for getting power to the station or maybe even an alternate site. Legislative Update Dr. Pfeifer stated that as she spoke tonight the Legislature was getting ready to take a turn on their agenda as census numbers were released and they would spend probably the next six weeks working on re-districting. She stated that the Board packet contains a partial list of bills submitted through January 24. She reported that most of these bills will never get out of committee. She highlighted a few of the bills that pertain to school finance. She stated that the District would also be looking at the census numbers to determine if any re-districting is required for Board Trustee Single Member Districts. Board Meeting Calendar Dr. Pfeifer stated that three budget workshops are proposed for the first Monday of March, April and May. She stated that the regular Board meeting dates will not change. She reported that the March 7 th budget workshop will pertain to revenue and the April 4 th workshop will pertain to expenditures. She stated that at the May 2 nd workshop the Board and District administration will discuss the preliminary budget. Gary Balch stated that the District and the Board will try to make the best decisions possible in regards to the students and employees of EISD. He stated that they will do their best to take care of everyone. Reports and Discussion Items Financial- Monthly Assistant Superintendent, Joee Gainer, stated that the general operating fund is still holding on and looks good at this time. He stated that local revenue is a little ahead of this point last year but will be closing out soon and not pick up again until June or July due to split tax payments. He reported that state revenue also is very low in the next few months and that from 8 to 9 million dollars of it won t come in until June 25 th to August 25 th. He explained that, due to this, on a cash basis there is not much revenue coming in but the bills are still coming in. He explained that during these months the excess in revenues over expenditures will drop and the District will use some funds from fund balance to meet expenditures until revenue picks up again in late June. Mr. Gainer reported that both the food service and debt service funds are in good shape and stated that a debt service payment of $2,592, was made on February 15 th. He stated that the monthly pro-rata report shows that if the books were closed at this time, they would show a small positive year to this date. He stated that this report will show some movement between functions next month. Mr. Gainer stated that the investment report shows a token amount of interest this month and that rates continue to be really bad. He reported that funds invested will continue to drop as the District completes construction projects and payments are made for them. He stated that gas well revenue is still up from the projected amount for this month and is ahead of the projected budget at this point. He also explained that the shortfall in the state budget for the current biennium could affect state revenue in the last months of the year. Mr. Gainer then summarized the financial and investment reports for January, General Operating Fund for the current month shows total revenue of $3,665,686.12, total expenditures of $3,229,330.81, and excess revenues over expenditures of $436, Year to date excess revenue over expenditures totals $3,086, The Financial Report for Food Service Fund shows total revenue for the current month of $205,785.25, expenditures for the current month of $150,570.85, with current month excess 2

3 revenues over expenditures of $55,214.40, and year-to-date excess revenues over expenditures of $121, Debt Service reports current month revenue of $1,961, with year to date total expenditures of $0.00. Excess revenues over expenditures year to date total $3,252, The Monthly Investment Report, ending 01/31/11, shows total invested at $19,069,289.45; total interest earned at $2,607.68; monthly deposits totaled $6,354,609.14; with a total ending balance of $20,913, Monthly Pro-rata and Year-to-Date Account by Function and by Object Code of Actual Expenditures to Amended Budget Mr. Gainer explained that this report of actual expenditures to the amended budget, ending January 31, 2011, shows a Year to Date variance of $(64,736) five months into the budget which after amendments and adjustments for annual amounts brings the pro-rata variance to $13,712. Gas Well Revenue received for the fiscal year (01/31/11) is $41, Student Activities Assistant Superintendent, Curtis Amos, highlighted upcoming activities at District campuses. He stated that the High School has benchmark testing, ELA TAKS testing, six weeks exams, a TAKS pep rally and many athletic events on their calendar. He reported that Baxter Junior High has CBA and TAKS tests, a book fair, sixth grade pre-registration, TAKS night and a parent conference night on their calendar. He stated that Powell Intermediate has scheduled CBA and benchmark testing, a Black History Program, a Sexual Harassment Program and a book fair. Mr. Amos reported CBA, TAKS and benchmark testing, as well as field trips, poetry cafe, Bingo for Books, book fairs, Black History Programs, music programs and family literacy night are scheduled at the elementary campuses. He stated that report cards will go home on March 4 th and Spring Break will be the week of March Ms. Hodge asked about dates for track meets and Ms. Smith-Allen asked about the results of the powerlifting events. Mr. Amos stated that he would get this information and forward it to the Board. Ms. Smith-Allen also stated that she wanted to express how pleased she is with the job that the counselors at the High School are doing in motivating the students about their education. EISD Education Foundation Annual Report Mr. Gainer stated that the Foundation has made another huge stride in the past year. He reported that the employee campaign was very successful and along with the fundraising dinner those proceeds totaled approximately $40,000. He stated that the Foundation also received a check from Alcon for just under $35,000 from their asset disbursal program. He reported that total assets are $279,000 with all fall scholarships already funded. He reported that the Foundation has also funded some new scholarships this year for the auto mechanics class at TCC. He stated that he and all of the Foundation Board are thrilled with the growth of the Foundation and with being able to help so many students further their education in the dual credit classes at TCC. Ms. Hodge asked about an item on the deposits that looked as if there was a $200 error. Mr. Gainer explained that there was another $200 amount that consisted of 3 checks that must not have printed on the page. Mr. Burgess expressed his thanks to Ms. Hodge and Ms. Garza for their service on the Foundation Board. Bishop Elementary 2010 NCEA Higher Performing Schools Cathy Sewell stated that she is happy to report that Bishop Elementary has earned recognition as a 2010 National Center for Educational Achievement (NCEA) Higher Performing School. She explained that this award highlights higher performing skills that must occur for three consecutive years. She stated that just passing TAKS is not enough for this recognition, but that they look at the percentage of students reaching commended level. She stated that this award was based on 2008, 2009 and 2010 scores. Ms. Sewell stated that she was proud to present the award to Ms. Russell and commended her for the great job that she and her staff are doing. Ms. Russell thanked Ms. Sewell, Ms. Samuel, Dr. Pfeifer and the Board for their support. Ms. Russell also introduced and thanked Mary Balch, the instructional specialist at Bishop for the great job that she does. 3

4 Marilyn Hodge stated that she appreciates the great job that Ms. Balch does as a teacher. Ms. Smith-Allen stated that she greatly appreciates how administrators and staff consistently go above and beyond. Student Assignment to STEP Mr. Amos stated that Strategies to Elevate People (STEP) is a third party discipline program for Everman ISD which provides a short term educational setting with instructional programs to address the behavioral, academic and social needs of at-risk students. He stated that Mr. Clark is working well with the District daily to serve the needs of these students. He reported that at the current time there are 16 EISD junior high students being served at STEP. JPS Clinic Activity Mr. Amos stated that the JPS School Based Center of Everman has greatly benefited the District and the community of Everman. He explained that the clinic provides treatment for cold and sore throats, administers immunizations, assesses and treats minor injuries and performs school and general physicals or check-ups. He stated that the staff of three saw 267 patients in the month of January. Calendar for Adoption of Standard Dress Code Curtis Amos explained that the pilot standard dress code at the secondary level for the school year has been very successful. He summarized the calendar and process for determining a continuation of the dress code for the school year and the possibility of expanding it to the elementary level also. He stated that he has already met with Ms. Page and Ms. Donaldson to discuss any problems and what adjustments could be made for a smooth transition of the dress code to the elementary level. He highlighted the meetings that would occur with him and the campus principals and the parent meetings that would be held at the elementary campuses and at Baxter Junior High. He stated that the District would bring the dress code to the Board for first reading in April and possible second reading and adoption in May. Mr. Amos stated that the District will also be accepting donations of new or slightly used dress code clothing, as well as monetary donations to help students who can t afford to purchase the required items. Dr. Pfeifer thanked and commended Ms. Page and Ms. Donaldson for job they did to inform the students and parents before the start of the pilot program. Dropout Grant Final Report Cathy Sewell stated that in March of 2009, EISD applied for and received the Collaborative Dropout Reduction Pilot Program-Cycle 2 Grant from the Texas Education Agency in the amount of $250,000. She reported that the grant has been successfully implemented over the last two years at the High School and is concluding February 28 th. She explained that the grant has positively impacted approximately 300 students through a variety of programs designed to provide academic, social, and behavioral support and that the objectives were met in preparing students for postsecondary success. Some of the programs implemented through the grant are Advancement Via Individual Determination, Communities in Schools, Big Brothers, Big Sisters mentoring program, University of North Texas Collaborative with the Career Technical Education (CTE) department, Work Force Solutions Collaborative with the CTE department, dual credit programs at Tarrant County College, Texas Virtual School Network, expansion of credit recovery, and an in-school tutorial program for indentified at-risk students. Ms. Sewell commended Janet Wynne, Ms. Page, Mr. Lamers, Ms. Little and the High School staff for their work on these projects and stated that, because of the high standard of work, the District has received a continuation grant in the amount of $200,000 to continue the work over the next 18 months. Consent Items A-I Gary Balch made a motion to approve consent items A-I as proposed. Charlie Baxter seconded. The following consent items were approved: Minutes of the Meeting on January 18, 2011 Tax Report for January, 2011 Bills and Claims for January, 2011 totaling $1,863, Contracts: None 4

5 Resignations: Effective at the end of the year Emily Yee Sp. Ed. Teacher/Bishop Student Transfer Requests: Tiara J. Pouget 07/Baxter Lisa Wickstrum (guardian) HS Khariana Pouget 06/Powell Lisa Wickstrum (guardian) HS Azia Peters 04/Hommel Lisa Wickstrum (guardian) HS Budget Amendments: None Discipline Reports Request for TEA Expedited Waiver for Modifying Schedule on Testing Days Action Items Call for Election of EISD Board of Trustees, Place 5 and Place 6 At Large Dr. Pfeifer recognized the years of service of Ms. Hodge and Mr. Baxter. She thanked them for their many years of service to the District and for submitting their applications for a place on the ballot for the May 14 th School Board Election as their terms will expire in May. She reported that the filing period for this election is February 12 th through March 14 th. Ruby Herring made a motion to call for election for EISD Board of Trustees Place 5 and Place 6 - At Large to be held on May 14, 2011 to be contracted with Tarrant County Elections. Vicky Garza seconded. Accept Donation from Bishop PTO Dr. Pfeifer stated that the Bishop PTO has been collecting funds for the campus and wishes to donate those funds toward the purchase of student response systems. She stated that these systems allow an entire classroom to respond to a question at the same time, which enables teachers to determine what percentage of the class has mastered the question. Ms. Russell presented a check in the amount of $3,500 from the PTO to the Board and expressed her appreciation for the donation. Gary Balch made a motion to accept the donation from the Bishop PTO in the amount of $3,500 and approve the purchase of student response systems. Vicky Garza seconded. EISD Board Policy Update 89 First Reading Dr. Pfeifer stated that Board Policy Update 89 has been submitted to districts from the TASB Board Policy Service. She reported that this update is small and only contains a few local policies that TASB recommends for updating from the previous legislative session. Gary Balch made a motion to approve Board Policy Update 89 at First Reading and place on the March agenda for Second and Final Reading. Charlie Baxter seconded. EISD Board Policy CQ (Local) Regarding Links to District Web Page Dr. Pfeifer stated that the District is continuing to update the District web page and elevating it to be the dominant communication piece for parents and the community since the loss of the Everman Star. She explained that in order to expand the function of the web site, District administration is seeking Board Policy provisions for posting links on the site and determining who gets to link to the site. She stated that there is already a policy in place and that the shaded areas indicate new text to be added to the policy. She explained that proposed links would be of specific service to EISD parents and students, but would consist of only those approved by the EISD Board and within policy. She explained that this would protect the site from non-restricted requests for links from any external party. Cathy Sewell explained that the policy updates were determined in a process that included the Technology Committee and the Technology Task Force. She stated that Janet Snider was instrumental in the process and could explain further details of the process. Ms. Snider reported that the process started in the technology department, but they soon realized it required a bigger scope. She explained that the tech department then met with the administrative team, the Tech Committee and the Tech Task Force. She stated that they did not want to allow links to sites that were full of ads. She stated that most of the curriculum sites were determined to be appropriate. She stated that the links would directly impact students. Ms. Sewell thanked Ms. Snider for her 5

6 work on the policy. Ms. Sewell also explained that all new links not already included in the policy must be approved by the Superintendent or his/her designee. Ruby Herring made a motion to approve Board Policy CQ (Local) regarding links to the District web page at First Reading and authorize placement on the March agenda for Second and Final Reading. Charlie Baxter seconded. Plan for Reduction in Force, Definition of Program Areas and RIF Calendar Dr. Pfeifer stated that at the Board Meeting in January the Board declared financial exigency which means the District is preparing for less money from the State. She stated that it is important that there is no panic and that employees are informed and kept up to date on their job status for next year. She explained that District administration has compiled a systematic and orderly plan for Board approval. She stated that tomorrow she would start meetings with all employee groups and would meet with all by the end of the week. She stated that she would have a handout ready to distribute at the meetings which will show employees the plan that is in place and let them know what to anticipate. She stated that the goal is that no one is without employment next year but also to give anyone whose position is eliminated as much time as possible to find another position in the District or find other employment in another district. She stated that the Board will need to approve the 25 areas identified for a reduction in force and that there would be District-wide adjustments. She reported that the Food Service Department and the Maintenance Department were the only departments that were not proposed for any reductions as they will be adding the Johnson Center for She explained that the plan and calendar would be approved tonight but not the dollar amounts as some of these may not materialize or could change. Dr. Pfeifer stated that a 7.5% reduction in State funding is very feasible but that it could be even as high as 15%. She also stated that it could be late in the budget process before we know the final number from the State especially if any Special Sessions of the Legislature are called. She further explained that class sizes will not go above 24 to 1, that there is a plan to cut 14 bus routes, and also to do some recoding to federal funds. She stated that, with the proposed TRE, the M & O tax rate could be raised $0.13 and the I & S tax rate could be lowered $0.15 which would result in an overall lower tax rate for Dr. Pfeifer also explained that if State revenue is reduced more than 7.5%, even all the reductions proposed by the District plus the passing of the TRE will not make up the shortage. Discussion and many questions followed. Ms. Hodge asked about the large amount paid to Faulk for custodial services and if the District couldn t do it cheaper. Dr. Pfeifer stated that administration would look at what it would cost for the District to do it and also look at other companies. Ms. Hodge also stated that she supports the reduction plan and appreciates the calendar. She also stated that it was critical for the Board to take whatever time is necessary to discuss and understand the plan and the whole process. Ms. Smith-Allen stated that she would like to have current budget numbers to compare to what changes are suggested at the called budget meeting on March 7. Dr. Pfeifer then reiterated the District plan and that the Board is just approving the plan and calendar and not the numbers. Lengthy discussion followed. Marilyn Hodge made a motion to approve the recommended Plan for Reduction in Force, Definition of Program Areas and RIF Calendar. Ruby Herring seconded. Ayes: All Stipend for Early Notice of Retirement/Resignation Dr. Pfeifer stated that District administration will use natural attrition to the fullest extent in making program changes and RIF adjustments to the budget. She explained that early notification of retirement or resignation from contracted employees will allow administration to identify available positions that could be filled by qualified employees whose current contracts are subject to non-renewal due to program changes or RIF adjustments. She stated that administration really did not want to offer this token stipend, but felt that it could be beneficial. She stated that the resignations/retirements would be required to be in writing and turned in along with a form describing the terms of the offer that the employee would sign. She explained that this would be a one-time, separate payment of $500. 6

7 Gary Balch made a motion to approve a $ stipend for early notice of retirement or resignation from contracted employees who file documentation with District Administration between January 18 and March 4, Charlie Baxter seconded. Bid for Electrical Upgrades at JCB High School Dr. Pfeifer stated that one of the last proposed construction projects is completion of electrical upgrades to the High School campus, similar to upgrades on other District facilities. She explained that this upgrade is significantly larger than others due to the size of the campus and the age of existing electrical components; therefore the project was originally thought to cost approximately $350,000. She stated that bids came in significantly lower. Mr. Brown reported Romine and Burgess had originally determined the scope of the work about two and a half years ago. He stated that since that was a long time span they came back again and some additional things were added to the project. He explained that every classroom would get additional electric plugs and new panels would be installed. He stated that the only areas not included in the project would be 5 th and 7 th halls and the gym and locker areas. He stated that 4 bids were received, but one of those was disqualified due to being late. He stated that Morgan Electric was the low bidder. He stated that the District has not worked with them before, but references checked gave them rave reviews. Ms. Garza asked about roof penetrations not being mentioned on Morgan Electric s bid. Mr. Brown stated that all bidders were told that the District would be responsible for repairing any roof penetrations. Gary Balch made a motion to approve the bid from Morgan Electric in the amount of $183,000 for electrical upgrades to JCB High School Campus. Vicky Garza seconded. Ayes: Ricky Burgess, Gary Balch, Vicky Garza, Charlie Baxter, Marilyn Hodge and Lonzetta Smith-Allen Abstaining Ruby Herring Bid for Track Resurface at JCB High School Marilyn Hodge asked if there were special funds for the track resurfacing. Dr. Pfeifer stated that the funding is part of the bond construction money. Dr. Pfeifer stated that with the installation of the artificial turf at the High School stadium in the year, the track was subject to additional wear from equipment and vehicles. She stated that this in addition to the usual wear of tracks over the years makes the High School track long overdue for resurfacing. She reported that this project has been proposed as one of the final construction projects and the original budget for the resurfacing was estimated at $175,000. Glenn Brown explained that the District posted a request for bids as required and received three bids. He stated that two of the bids were very close and that administration is recommending Vibra-Whirl as the vendor at a cost of $188,960. He explained that this bid is higher than the estimated cost due to the requirement to add the D-Rings to the project due to the drain work required. He reported that Vibra-Whirl was the vendor on the Baxter track. Gary Balch made a motion to approve Vibra-Whirl as the vendor for restoration of the track and D-Rings at JCB High School at a cost of $188,960. Charlie Baxter seconded. Further discussion followed. Due to concerns regarding the budget and the Johnson Center project, Mr. Burgess and the Board decided to hear information on the next action item before taking the vote on this item. This vote on the JCB Track Resurface was taken after completing the discussion and the vote on Action Item I below regarding the Johnson Sixth Grade Center. Results of the vote on the JCB Track Resurface were: Ayes: Ricky Burgess, Gary Balch, Charlie Baxter and Lonzetta Smith-Allen Nays: Ruby Herring, Marilyn Hodge and Vicky Garza Ms. Herring stated that she had concerns about doing this project now in the current budget environment and with the possible unknowns that could still occur at the Johnson Center remodel. 7

8 Change Orders for Construction at Johnson Sixth Grade Center Dr. Pfeifer stated that after review by the City of Fort Worth, a number of required components have been identified as missing from the initial architectural plans at the Johnson Sixth Grade Center. She explained that the District will be unable to secure final permitting and occupancy without these additions. She stated that cost estimates for these are significant and whatever funds are still available for construction projects must cover these additions plus completion of any other projects underway. Dr. Pfeifer explained that a portion of the additions in the SEDALCO change order will cover restoring the tiered room discussed at the January meeting into a multiple-use media room, classroom, meeting room. She also reviewed the budget for the Johnson Center from the beginning proposed allocation, through the original GMP, change orders already approved by the Board and current changes proposed. She explained that budget for these change orders is proposed from re-allocation of funds designated for the high school electrical upgrade project. She also reported that there is a slight contingency for some money to come back from SEDALCO on the project at a later date. Lengthy discussion followed. Ms. Smith-Allen stated that if the track is not up to par that a student could be injured and she certainly did not want that to happen. She also stated that if EISD is going to have a track program that they need to have a track that is usable. Further discussion followed. Gary Balch made a motion to approve the change order to the GMP from SEDALCO for construction at Johnson Sixth Grade Center in the amount of $57,214 and to approve additional owner costs at Johnson Center as proposed in the amount of $37,825. Charlie Baxter seconded. Refurbish Data, Public Address Systems, Clocks and Bell Systems at Johnson Sixth Grade Center Dr. Pfeifer stated that part of the owner costs for the Johnson project was to refurbish and update the existing data, public address, clock, and bell systems for the campus and that these items are critical to security and operations. She explained funding for this was allocated within the owner cost allocation for this project. Mr. Brown stated that this would include data cabling in the new construction areas as well as new speakers and clocks and updating the existing PA Intercom. Ms. Garza asked about the warranty on the work and Mr. Brown stated that it is usually one year. Ruby Herring made a motion to approve the bid of $33, from Nouveau as vendor for upgrades to data, public address, clock, and bell systems for the Johnson Sixth Grade Center. Vicky Garza seconded Calendar First Reading Mr. Amos stated that the proposed calendar for has not changed since reported at the January meeting. He stated that the calendar contains 178 instructional days and that it closely resembles the EISD calendar and the Fort Worth ISD calendar. Gary Balch made a motion to approve calendar for at First Reading and place on March Board agenda for Second and Final Reading. Ruby Herring seconded Budget Development Calendar Dr. Pfeifer stated that due to the urgency of the state environment and the pressing need to call for a second Tax Ratification Election, the budget process should follow the proposed calendar which calls for an earlier than usual adoption date for the budget and tax rate. She stated that the calendar provides for adopting the budget and tax rate in June. She explained that this budget calendar would place the TRE in August, before the fiscal year begins if approved by the Board. Ms. Hodge requested information on the current M & O tax rate. Dr. Pfeifer stated that the current rate is $1.04. Marilyn Hodge made a motion to adopt the proposed budget development calendar as proposed. Ruby Herring seconded. 8

9 Request for TEA Waiver for Student Attendance Days Mr. Amos stated that the District was closed for five days due to inclement weather and road conditions. He explained that State law requires the District to provide two make-up days in the Board adopted calendar for the school year. He stated that the District would make-up two of the five days on April 22, Good Friday and May 30, Memorial Day. He stated that the District is recommending a request for a TEA waiver for the other three days. Gary Balch made a motion to approve the request for TEA waiver for three student attendance days due to weather related closing. Lonzetta Smith-Allen seconded. Request for TEA Waiver for Student to Teacher Ratio in Grades PK-4 Mr. Amos stated that current law requires the student to teacher ratio in grades PK-4 as 22:1 unless special circumstances require districts to increase that ratio up to a maximum of 24:1. He stated that EISD has typically applied for such a waiver in the past several years. He stated that at the current time District enrollment will require a class at Townley Elementary to exceed the 22:1 ratio and go to 23:1. He stated that the waiver request will seek permission to increase that class to 23:1. He also reported that waivers are not required for the last twelve weeks of the school year so with this waiver the District should make it through the end of the year. Ruby Herring made a motion to approve the request for TEA waiver for student to teacher ratio as proposed. Charlie Baxter seconded. Mr. Burgess announced that the Board would adjourn into executive session for discussion of these action items: Administrative Contracts Proposed Contracts for Non-Renewal Due to Reduction in Force Due to Financial Exigency and Program Change and Notice of Right to a Hearing Executive Session: The Board adjourned into Executive Session at 9:27 P.M. pursuant to the following sections of the Texas Open Meetings Act: , Personnel Matters and , Deliberation of Real Property The Board resumed Open Session at 9:57 P.M Administrative Contracts Charlie Baxter made a motion to approve administrative contracts as proposed. Gary Balch seconded. Proposed Contracts for Non-Renewal Due to Reduction in Force Due to Financial Exigency and Program Change and Notice of Right to a Hearing Dr. Pfeifer stated that two names, Judy Richmond and Robert Martin, need to be struck from the list of proposed non-renewals. She explained that both of them have resigned their 207 contracts and will be issued 197 day contracts. Ruby Herring made a motion to propose non-renewal of existing contracts for Debra Carter, Glenn Brown, and Allan Cobb and notify these administrators of this proposed action and their right to request a hearing. Gary Balch seconded. The meeting was adjourned at 10:00 P.M. March 21, 2011 Date Approved Gary Balch, Vice-President Vicky Garza, Secretary 9