Mr. Chappelle called the meeting to order at 7:40 p.m. and the pledge of allegiance was recited.

The first order of business was approval of the minutes from the December 7, 1999, budget workshop and December 16, 1999 regular meeting. Mr. Chappelle asked if there were any comments.

MOTION
Ms. Derosier made a motion, seconded by Ms. Bobrick, and the Board VOTED, unanimously to approve the minutes of the December 7, 1999 budget workshop.

MOTION
Ms. Derosier made a motion, seconded by Ms. Bobrick, and the Board VOTED, unanimously to approve the minutes of the December 16, 1999 regular meeting.

Mr. Chappelle reviewed the procedures for addressing the Board.

Salvatore Caracoglia, 190 Park Place addressed the Board.

1. Dr. Larson mentioned that a new high school grammar book has an article by Rachel Kamins. Ms. Kamins graduated in 1997 from Middletown High School and was the class Valedictorian. She currently attends Yale University.

2. Ms. Bobrick gave an update on the recent steering committee meeting for the Thomas Edison Magnet Middle School. She said the deadline for applications is Friday, January 14th, and a lottery will be conducted in March. The curriculum for grades 6 and 7 is being finalized, and the school should open on time in September. Two hundred fifty (250) applications have been received for teaching positions, and interviews for the assistant principal will be held this month. Currently, there are more student applicants than spaces. Mr. Thazhampallath asked how many students from Middletown applied. Ms. Parmelee-Blancato said, as of January 11th, 151. Mr. Filer asked how much we would be saving on a student who attends the Magnet school. Dr. Larson said 5/7 of the tuition will be paid by the state and 2/7 by Middletown, and we will still receive our ECS money.

Dr. Larson presented the Personnel Report and an Addendum that was distributed to Board members.
Ms. Weiss made a motion, seconded by Ms. Derosier, and the Board VOTED, unanimously to approve the following Personnel Action items:

Resignation:

Ellen J. Abrams, a Speech/Language Pathologist employed since September 1988 has submitted her resignation effective June 30, 2000 for early retirement.

Teckla K. Chapman, an Elementary Teacher employed since September 1967 has submitted her resignation effective June 30, 2000 for early retirement.

David A. Cunningham, a Guidance Counselor employed since February 1964 has submitted his resignation effective June 30, 2000 for early retirement.

Rebecca J. Dale, a Physical Education Teacher employed since November 1966 has submitted her resignation effective June 30, 2000 for early retirement.

Janet L. Wright, an Elementary Teacher employed since September 1979 has submitted her resignation effective June 30, 2000 for early retirement.

Leave of Absence

Lisbeth F. Scianna, an Elementary Teacher employed since August 1998 for the remainder of the 1999-2000 school year for child rearing purposes, effective March 12, 2000.

Appointment:

Kim M. Sortino, Alternative Education Teacher, Step 7 of the Bachelor’s schedule, salary $42,404 (pro-rated).

There were no items.

At this time, Dr. Larson explained to the Board that the Middletown Public Schools have nothing to do with teacher certification. The State of Connecticut, Department of Education, set Policy and handle all facets of teacher certification (i.e., issuance, renewal, etc.)

Mentor Program
Dr. Larson said that former elementary school principal Harold H. Kaplan is the point person for our Mentor Program. Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce President Lawrence McHugh has been very supportive of this program, and Mr. Kaplan works closely with chamber representative Johanna Bond. We currently have almost 100 mentors working with at risk students. Dr. Larson credited Board Vice-Chair Edward McMillan as the father of the Mentor Program. At this time, Dr. Larson asked Mr. Kaplan and Mr. McHugh to speak to this issue with thanks to both.

Mr. Kaplan expressed his pleasure at being at this meeting and mentioned the packet of materials previously distributed to Board members. He said that in this program they are always gaining and losing students and mentors. While the program takes place during school time, mentors are not discouraged from doing things with the kids outside of school. In conclusion, Mr. Kaplan thanked Mr. McMillan and the other Board members, and Dr. Larson and Mr. McHugh for 7 years of support.

Mr. McHugh said the Mr. McMillan cannot get enough credit for establishing this program. When he came to the Chamber to ask them to get involved, Mr. Kaplan was Principal of Lawrence School, one of the first schools to embrace the program. The majority of their sponsorship has been contributed by banks, and since 1992, over 250,000 of volunteer hours have been given to the program. Mr. McHugh praised the Board and administration for their dedication to education. He mentioned that he is Board Chair of the State University System, and said that the heart and soul of the State of Connecticut is its young people. Mr. McHugh also praised the dedication of the teachers and staff in our schools, and the outstanding leadership of Dr. Larson.

Mr. McMillan said that the only thing that wasn’t mentioned was that you gain as much as you give when you participate in the Mentor Program. Mr. Kaplan mentioned that Mr. McMillan is currently mentoring 3 high school age boys. Ms. Weiss said that the openness of the administration has allowed this program to flourish, and the district and students have benefited. Dr. Larson said that the Chamber members have been very receptive and helpful to the school district.

1999 Fall Athletics Report
Dr. Larson said that the report shows an increase in overall participation. This does not reflect participation in clubs and other activities (i.e., band and chorus). At this time, Dr. Larson asked Henry Koritkoski, Director of Athletics and Student Activities, to speak to this issue. Mr. Koritkoski said that there were no cuts in the fall, which kept the numbers up. Mr. Thazhampallath asked about our male/female balance. Mr. Koritkoski said that presently more males are participating; however, in track and field sports, female participation is increasing. Mr. Thazhampallath asked if the numbers would be more equal if football was taken out of the equation. Mr. Koritkoski said everything would be right on target. There was discussion about initiating athletic programs in football, swimming, volleyball and wrestling at the junior high school to feed the high school programs. Mr. McMillan said that he was surprised to learn that coaching certification was required and knew of cases where schools have lost good coaches. Mr. Koritkoski said there is a provision for an emergency coaching permit. Dr. Larson said that coaching certification is a State requirement, as is the first aid requirement and gives the Board some legal protection. Ms. Boske asked if anything came across strongly in the survey, such as a need for additional sports at the high school. Mr. Koritkoski said no. Ms. Warmsley mentioned that she was disappointed to see only one football player receive an academic award at the Sports Banquet. Ms. Weiss said that a Policy was piloted last year. We have raised our standards across the board. Mr. Chappelle observed that there is tremendous coaching that goes on in all sports, and it is interesting to see the involvement of students. Mr. Chappelle said that he is proud of our Policy and expressed his thanks to Mr. Koritkoski.

Status of Superintendent’s Objectives
Dr. Larson said that he would not go through each objective because the Board members received them in their packet. He asked if there were any questions. There were none.

Mr. Chappelle asked when Dr. Phil Zarlengo would be coming to the Board. Ms. Parmelee-Blancato said in August; however, she will have an update in February.

Financial Statement
Dr. Larson said that it is still too early to see significant changes; however, we are watching the tuition account closely. This account reflects expenditures that we cannot be controlled Mr. Filer questioned teachers spending their own money on supplies at the high school level. Mr. Chappelle said this would be looked into. Mr. Thazhampallath asked if we were noticing a savings because of the mild weather. Dr. Larson said yes. Ms. Warmsley asked if teachers have a budget. Dr. Larson said that the schools and departments have a budget.

Food Services Report
Dr. Larson reported that we continue to run in the black. Mr. Pillarella and his department did a good job. Mr. Cormier said that we still have a number of issues to be addressed in the Food Services Department, including staff development for the cafeteria workers. Mr. Duggan asked if this would cost additional dollars. Mr. Cormier said minimal if any. At this time, they are going through an extensive State review that will be completed the first week in February. Mr. McMillan asked how much of the income is derived from the sale of “junk” food. Mr. Pillarella said approximately $20,000 a month. Ms. Weiss mentioned capitalizing on the “brands” that we bring into the school. Dr. Larson said that buying must be done in a much larger volume than just one school system to realize significant savings. Ms. Warmsley asked if the meals are monitored. Dr. Larson said that we have a nutritionist on staff, and Mr. Pillarella said that the only waste is what students put in the trash. The schools cook by a chart, so there is no waste.

Building Projects
Bielefield School
Dr. Larson said that the project is moving along. Mr. Chappelle said that after Ms. Derosier expressed her concerns about the project at the last Board meeting, he went to Bielefield School to see if students and the educational process were compromised. The principal assured him that there was minimal impact on the students and the educational process. Mr. Jackson feels that the project is progressing well to date.

Vo. Ag. Expansion
Dr. Larson said that the contractor has indicated that they plan to meet the completion date of Friday, January 14, 2000. Mr. Jackson said that there will be a punch list, and the code officials will do a walk through on Thursday, January 13, 2000.

7) Middletown High School Building
Dr. Larson said that the school is approaching maximum capacity. In a couple of years, we will be at 1,080 students. The ideal capacity of a high school is 85%, so this is crunch time. Dr. Larson mentioned that he has had informal conversations with President Bennett at Wesleyan University; however, there is nothing substantial. In the report from AM Design, it is noted that the size of the existing lot is just under 17 acres. A school the size of Middletown High School should have a minimum of 30 acres, and P & Z regulations call for the lot to be covered 25% by buildings Many of our classrooms are undersized. They are 610 sq. ft. and should be 675 to 700 sq. ft. Also, our core facilities (i.e., cafeteria, gym, library, etc.) are strained to capacity, and parking is a problem for students and staff. Dr. Larson has proposed appointing a committee that Ms. Parmelee-Blancato will Chair. He is asking the Board Chair to appoint 2 Board members to serve on this committee, along with 2 teachers, and a parent. Mr. Jackson will also be a member of this committee. The charge of the committee will be to review the current situation. Dr. Larson mentioned other options (i.e., full day magnet school, partial day magnet school, etc.). The committee will come back in late spring with what the next step should be. Ms. Parmelee-Blancato said she was excited to be chairing this committee because this is a need that must be addressed.

Mr. Filer said that back in 1995 we renovated the high school and asked if there was any anticipation about capacity back then. Dr. Larson said that this project got off the ground in 1988, before he came to Middletown, so projections would not have shown that information. Ms. Kathleen Gallagher, English teacher at Middletown High School, said that the high school was opened in 1957 and the first of several renovations started in 1961.

Ms. Weiss asked how these numbers will impact the NEASC study next year. Dr. Larson said that their expectation will be that the community will address the enrollment crunch. He sees that as their major recommendation.

There were no items.

1) Extended Field Trips
Dr. Larson said this is the annual trip to Hershey, PA by the Woodrow Wilson Middle School Band and Chorus.

MOTION
Ms. Derosier made a motion, seconded by Mr. Duggan, and the Board VOTED, unanimously to approve the extended field trip to Hershey, PA by the Woodrow Wilson Middle School Band and Chorus.

2) 2000 Board of Education Meeting Dates
Dr. Larson said these dates parallel what has been done in previous years. Ms. Boske said that it might be nice to have 2 meetings a month in the beginning months. Dr. Larson said that, if necessary, meetings can always be added. He suggested waiting until Ms. Parmelee-Blancato prepares the list of agenda items before scheduling additional meetings. Ms. Derosier said that she agreed with Ms. Boske and felt that sometimes the Board rushes through things. Mr. Chappelle suggested starting Board meetings at 7:00 P.M. Mr. Filer asked about the meetings held by the executive members of the Board. Mr. Chappelle said that these meetings are to discuss the flow of the Agenda. Mr. Filer questioned Mr. Chappelle about posting these meetings. Mr. Chappelle responded that these are not formal meetings. Mr. Filer then said that we will have to revisit this whole thing again. Ms. Bobrick agreed that some curricular issues are rushed. However, she said that she missed having time to discuss issues of particular interest to Board members – to pursue the Agenda as a Board. She suggested regular “Retreat style” meetings for the Board where they can talk of things of interest to them. Mr. Duggan asked if committee meetings were posted. Dr. Larson said yes. Ms. Bobrick said that topics discussed at committee level deal with a specific issue. Mr. Duggan suggested being more aggressive with committee meetings. Mr. Filer asked for a list of who is on the standing committees. Dr. Larson said that standing committees have members appointed, however, all Board members are notified of meetings and invited to attend. Mr. McMillan expressed his support for more “Retreat style” meetings.

MOTION
Ms. Derosier made a motion, seconded by Ms. Bobrick, and the Board VOTED, with seven in favor – Ms. Bobrick, Ms. Boske, Ms. Derosier, Mr. Duggan, Mr. McMillan and Ms. Weiss, and one opposed – Mr. Filer, to approve the 2000 Board of Education Meeting Dates and to change the starting time of the Board meetings to 7:00 P.M. Mr. Filer asked that the record show he voted against this item because the lunch meetings are not posted.

The next Board meeting scheduled for Tuesday, February 8, 2000, will begin at 7:00 P.M.

3) Bielefield Technology Plans and Specifications
Dr. Larson said that these plans are consistent with our Technology Plan that the Board adopted two years ago. This was excluded from the project’s base bid so that the technology phase could be bid meeting the Universal Service Fund requirements. The plans and specifications were reviewed and approved by the State of Connecticut Department of Education School Facilities Unit. The Board must formally approve the Technology Specifications for the Bielefield School Project.

MOTION
Ms. Derosier made a motion, seconded by Ms. Bobrick, and the Board VOTED, unanimously to certify that the final plans and project manual as prepared for bidding and dated 12/21/99 and the professional costs estimate dated 3/21/99 for the Bielefield School technology infrastructure project as approved by the Chair on 12/22/99 on behalf of the Board of Education, have been reviewed and approved by the Board of Education.

4) Adult Education Lease
Dr. Larson said that Adult and Vocational Education Director Arthur T. Muldowney, Jr. is working with Robert Lapidus, owner of the Adult Education building, to obtain addition space. As the program continues to grow, our need for additional classroom space increases. Mr. Muldowney has been able to obtain grant monies from the State to cover all costs. The lease has been reviewed by our attorney and requires Board approval. Ms. Bobrick asked if the expanded space will provide a lounge or conference room for teachers. Mr. Muldowney said no. There is space in the building that Mr. Lapidus would give to the Board for free if we cover the construction costs. Ms. Bobrick asked Dr. Larson if anything could be done. Dr. Larson said that there are no funds available in the budget.

MOTION
Ms. Boske made a motion, seconded by Ms. Derosier, and the Board VOTED, unanimously to approve the Adult Education Lease and approve the Chair signing the lease agreements.

5) Vocational Agriculture Change Orders
Dr. Larson said that several months ago the Board Chair and officers were allowed to approve change orders on building projects. The State requires formal Board approval to allow them to do this because the Board is acting as the Vo-Ag Building Committee.

MOTION
Ms. Weiss made a motion, seconded by Ms. Derosier, and the Board VOTED, unanimously to approve the Project Change Orders #1 and #2.

Ms. Weiss gave the minutes from the previous ACES Board meeting to Mr. McMillan who will represent Middletown at the next Board meting.

Mr. Chappelle asked Board members and administrators to consider dates in March for the next Board Retreat. Saturday, March 4, 2000, was set as the date for the next Board Retreat.

With no further discussion, Mr. Chappelle adjourned the meeting.
Time: 9:25 p.m.

REMINDER The next Board meeting scheduled for Tuesday, February 8, 2000, will begin at 7:00 P.M.