Minutes for February 10 BOE Meeting

At last night's Board of Education meeting, Superintendent Vital thanked the community for participating in the recent community forums on proposed elementary school curriculum changes regarding addressing issues of sexual orientation and gender identity. In addition, she thanked the LGBT committee for their continued work and all of the individuals who took the time to communicate with the Board of Education and staff about the proposed changes.

Based on the feedback received, Superintendent Vital recommended additional community engagement meetings over the next two months with the proposed curriculum coming to the Board of Education at the end of April. In the next two weeks she will be working with staff, the LGBT committee and elementary school principals to develop the format and objectives of these meetings. This will be communicated through your elementary school’s newsletter and will be posted on the website. The Board of Education accepted her recommendation.

1. Employee of the Month Recognition

Background: Each month the District recognizes an employee of the month. This month we recognized Mary Hallford, Manager, Human Resources.

Fiscal Implications: None

Superintendent Goal: Goal #4 Recruit and retain highly qualified employees.

2. Highlighting Alameda Unified School District Schools: Washington Elementary School

Background: At the Kindergarten Parent night at Washington Elementary School a video highlighting the kindkergarten and first grade program was previewed by incoming new families. An excerpt of the video was shown. For the entire video go here.

Fiscal Implications: None

Superintendent Goal: Goal #1 Improve student achievement.

3. Approval of Audit Financial Autit Report for Fiscal Year Ended June 30, 2008

Background: Each year the Board of Education is required to approve the annual audit of the financial books of the District. The audit firm of Nigro, Nigro & White will present the audit report. Copies are available at District Office in the Fiscal Services office. The Board approved the audit.

Fiscal Implications: None

Superintendent Goal: Goal #2 Align the spending plan.

4. Special Education Program Implementation Update

Background: In 2006 Alameda Unified School District requested an audit of Special Education services. The audit was performed by the Fiscal Crisis and Management Assistance Team and the report was completed in August, 2006. The report included 121 recommendations in seven areas. Each year (2007 report, 2008 report) staff makes a presentation on progress in each of the seven area as well as recommendations for change. This year staff is recommending hiring an additional psychologist, occupational therapist and half-time special education nurse in this report.

Fiscal Implications: The additions will be cost neutral. There will be a reduction of cost with non-public agencies who provide psychological and occupational therapy services.  The budgeted full time district nurse can be shared for special education services.

Superintendent Goal: Goal #1 Improve student achievement.

5. Visual and Peformning Arts (VAPA) Five Year Arts Education Annual Report

Background: In 2007, a five year arts education plan was appoved by the Board of Education. Staff will presented an update on the progress made.

Fiscal Implications:

Superintendent Goal: Goal #1 Improve student achievement.

6. Alameda Unified School District Budget Information Update

Background:  Staff made an initial presentation of the impact of the Governor's proposed budget at the last Board of Education meeting. Staff presented additional information regarding the ongoing budget implications of Governor's proposed budget.

Fiscal Implications: None

Superintendent Goal: Goal #2 Align the spending plan.

7.) Memorandum of Understanding between Community Learning Center Schools, Inc and Alameda Unified School District

Background: In December, 2008 the Board of Education provisionally approved the Community Learning Center Schools, Inc charter for Nea. Both parties are in agreement that the date for approval will be extended until February 24, 2009. Staff presented the draft Memorandum of Understanding.

Fiscal Implications: None

Superintendent Goal: Goal #2 Align the spending plan.

8.) Governance Protocol Review - Board Member School Site Visit

Background: In reviewing our roles and responsibilities as a Board member, the Board needs to establish agreements regarding how we will conduct ourselves.  These agreements (protocols) cover a number of areas where the Board members interact with the Superintendent, staff members, parents and the community. As time permits, the Board will discuss establish agreements in various areas.

10.) Board Member Reports