Showing posts with label school board. Show all posts
Showing posts with label school board. Show all posts

Shoreline School Board Meeting Summary September 28, 2015

Thursday, October 8, 2015

Shoreline School Board Meeting Summary September 28, 2015
by Marianne Deal Stephens

Consent Agenda
The Board formally accepted the following gifts and grants: 
• $9000 from the Shoreline Public Schools Foundation for Opportunity Grants to be used for “school supplies, field trips, or class fees for students in financial need. Each elementary school receives $400, Cascade K-8 $200, middle schools $900, and high schools $1700. 
• $5900 from Cascade K-8 PTSA for Classroom Supplies, distributed among the classes. 
• $5000 from Shorewood PTSA for Homework Club 

The Board approved: 
• Construction change orders for the Brookside Roof Replacement Project and the Shorecrest Baseball and Softball Field Improvement Project
• Extended Field Trips for several groups: Shorewood Dance and Drill Team to State Competition in Yakima in March 2016; Briarcrest 6th Grade to Camp Seymour in April 2016, and Meridian Park 6th Grade to Camp Orkila in May 2016. 

Introduction of Heather Hiatt, new Assistant Principal at Shorecrest
Executive Director Schools Brian Schultz introduced Heather Hiatt to the Board and welcomed her back to the District. Before she became an administrator, Ms. Hiatt taught science, including several years at Shorewood. Recently, Ms. Hiatt has been an administrator at Woodinville High School. 

Results of 2015 State Assessments
Dr. Michael Power presented results from various tests, including the new Smarter Balanced Assessments. An upcoming article will provide more detail, but these bar graphs show how Shoreline students exceeded State averages by notable margins, and exceeded the State predicted scores by wide margins.

Click on graphics to enlarge. 


Source: Shoreline Public Schools

In both graphs, the High School cluster on the far right has a different proportion than the other clusters. Both the Shoreline Public Schools (SPS) scores and the State scores are skewed lower by the significant number of test refusals. Each test refusal or no show was counted as a zero. 

Board/ Superintendent Priorities
Once a year, the District sets priorities for the school year. Several administrators presented the six 2015-2016 priorities.

Director of Student Services Amy Vujovich and Director of Teaching and Learning Teri Poff presented Priority #1, which includes all instructional programs. Director Poff explained that the the priority formerly focused on increasing academic achievement for every student. It has been updated to fit with the current emphasis on students graduating college and career ready so that doors of opportunity are open to them. 

Source: Shoreline Public Schools

Directors Vujovich and Poff provided detail on curriculum, assessments, and professional development that will support this priority. See pages 85-88 and 108-112 of the September 28 Meeting Agenda. Throughout the discussion, both directors emphasized efforts to: create an inclusive and equitable culture; identify and close student achievement & opportunity gaps; and boost professional assistance for teachers.

Deputy Superintendent Marla Miller presented Priorities #2 and #3. Priority #2, Financial Stability, was articulated as “Maintain fiscal systems with adequate reserves to ensure the long-term financial stability of the District, while strategically using available resources to best serve the instructional needs of students. Continue to identify and implement operating efficiencies.” This goal and corresponding action plans were outlined in the three following areas:

Source: Shoreline Public Schools

Priority #3, Capital Projects, concerns the management of school facilities. Within this area, enrollment growth will necessitate yet-to-be-determined changes. The District has begun an extensive study of the facilities and usage possibilities in order to best serve increased student numbers. 

Source: Shoreline Public Schools


Director of Human Resources Tam Osborne presented Priority #4, Human Resources. 

Source: Shoreline Public Schools

Director Osborne noted a few current realities:
• It is harder to find people to do the jobs that need to be done.
• In order to be competitive, we need to address hiring needs earlier by anticipating openings.
• We are building partnerships with local universities. 
• The new teacher mentor program will “provide collegial support and connection”.

Shoreline has a shortage of substitute teachers, and so has undertaken two measures: offering bonuses on Mondays and Fridays (the most difficult days to get substitutes); and hiring otherwise qualified applicants who do not happen to have teaching degrees. The latter measure is authorized by OSPI in response to widespread shortages. In regard to recruitment of potential employees, Director Osborne mentioned that, while “the story of who we are in terms of academic prowess is well known … the story of who we are is not well known.” He will work with Public Information Officer Curtis Campbell to create a recruiting video reflecting our diverse population. (See list of positions open).

Director of Instructional Technology Jim Golubich introduced Priority #5 Technology by saying that this year, “we will move from deploying equipment to helping teachers use it effectively.” Since we are “in a sweet spot” with the current array of iPad, Chromebooks, and refurbished laptops, the department can assist teachers with new ways to use the tools. The district-wide infrastructure upgrade will proceed as planned this fall.

 Source: Shoreline Public Schools


Priority #6, Communication, may be most visible to the Shoreline community. Newly hired Public Information Officer Curtis Campbell outlined plans for several changes:
• refresh current “Flagship” publication 
• publish an Annual Report 
• publish a biweekly electronic staff newsletter
• increase followers on social media 
• expand to Instagram and a video channel
• develop a mobile app for student, staff, and family use

Source: Shoreline Public Schools


Comments from the Community
Two Syre Elementary parents offered statements from two different sides of a controversy about a particular class. One parent urged the District to be more knowledgeable about a teacher’s background when hiring, and the other parent questioned the fairness of the process, wondering if the actions were prompted by unsubstantiated rumor. 

Marianne Stephens referenced her Shoreline Area News Op-Ed on the impact of the District’s late start and end dates on high school students. She added that a small but compelling group of high school students cannot take advantage of summer opportunities because Shoreline finishes near the end of June, well after many institutions have started summer programming. 

School Board Reports and Communications
Director Debi Ehrlichman, discussing the recent Day of Sharing, wished to acknowledge in particular how the local Rotary Clubs “support our students in so many ways”. She also congratulated Lake Forest Park Elementary for receiving an iPad Learning Lab from Jackson Food Stores. (See previous article).
Director David Wilson noted that Director Richard Potter’s son was one of four Shoreline students named National Merit Scholarship Semifinalists. (See article)

Director Wilson also noted that Basetti Architects was honored for its historical renovation of the Ronald School as part of the new Shorewood High School. (See previous article)

Board President Mike Jacobs enjoyed the recent Shorecrest/ Shorewood football game.



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School Board Meeting Summary September 14, 2015

Thursday, September 17, 2015

By Marianne Deal Stephens

Student Board Member Introduced
School Board President Mike Jacobs introduced Areeya Tipyasothi, the 2015-16 Shorewood Student Representative to the School Board. At Shorewood, Areeya is the founding president of the Student Model United Nations, Editor of The Kolus student newspaper, and a cellist in Chamber Ensemble. Her counterpart is Rachel Semon, a senior at Shorecrest. The Shoreline School Board includes two seniors as student members for the duration of the school year. Customarily, each student representative sits at the table with the Board for a semester. 

Consent Agenda: Contracts
Fourteen of the evening’s twenty two Consent Agenda items were approvals of 2015-16 salaries for District employees, ranging from the Superintendent and Assistant Superintendents to Maintenance Employees. For particulars, see the 9/14/15 Meeting Agenda. The District negotiates contracts with several groups, including but not limited to: SESPA (Shoreline Educational Support Professionals Association); SPA (Shoreline Principals Association); SCA (Shoreline Center Administrators); SEIU (the local chapter of the Service Employees International Union); SAAA (Shoreline Athletics and Activities Association); Confidential Employees Association.  

Consent Agenda: Other Matters

The Board approved:
--The District’s 2015-2016 Application for the State Transitional Bilingual Instructional Program (TBIP). TBIP funds would supplement the existing ELL (English Language Learners) program. TBIP would provide:  additional assistance to students in the ELL program; interventions like homework help to students no longer in the formal ELL program; professional development for educators; a bilingual education consultant to explore the potential of offering dual language programming to ELL students in the future. 

--The Shoreline Foundation’s $5000 gift for summer school transportation for elementary students. 

--Change orders for Shorewood and Shorecrest High Schools. While the main buildings are finished, revisions to storm revisions, asphalt, and venting have been made. 

--An extended field trip by Shorecrest Cross Country to attend an Invitational Meet in Leavenworth, WA. 

New School Resource Officer
Executive Director of Schools Brian Schultz introduced Greg McKinney, the new School Resource Officer. Officer McKinney’s career began at Kemper Military College and has included work with the Honolulu Police Department and the Shoreline Police Department. He volunteers for teen programs in the area, and was Officer Rob Bardsley’s first pick for the position. After Director Schultz’s introduction, Officer McKinney thanked the Board for the opportunity and said “I’ll give it everything I’ve got.” 

Opening of School Review
Brian Schultz offered an overview of the first days of the school year. On the fourth day, numbers become more stable. In response to growing numbers of young children, the School District previously closed boundary exceptions. 

Kindergartens are full at many schools. Some kindergarteners will spend 2015-16 at a school other than the family’s home school and then return to the home school for the rest of elementary school. Many families have called the district, and Director Schultz attempts to answer every call. The District tries to keep kids in their neighborhood schools, but “a fair amount of juggling” is required. The numbers may continue to shift, and the District could open overflows if necessary. 



When discussing the elementary schools, Director Schultz explained that “we are a full district” and are over 95% capacity in most instances. He drew attention to the “exciting change” that ELL students are now back at their home schools. Though the schools are full, “our kids are in classrooms” rather than in faculty rooms or other spaces not designed for instruction. Most elementary classrooms are very close to the “trigger sizes”, which are: K- 24; 1st grade - 26; 2nd grade - 26; 3rd grade - 26; 4th grade - 28; 5th grade - 29; 6th grade - 29. Some buildings have split classrooms (two grades in one class), which automatically have a .2 staff member for math instruction. 

The Cascade K-8 enrollment should be 200.


The high school schedule continues to be a topic of discussion. In response to the imbalance of even/ odd days last year, there is now a Common Calendar with a balance of All Period, Even, and Odd days, now called A, E, and O days. The district aims to preserve the ability of students to get back and forth between Shorecrest and Shorewood high school campuses during the day since some students have classes at both high schools. 

The District continues to develop the high school SAS (Student Academic Support) period in an aim to maximize minutes in the school day and provide appropriate support options. 



Comment from the Community
Shoreline Education Association President David Guthrie thanked the Board and noted Shoreline’s contrast to what is happening in the Seattle School District. He noted that the teachers are “thrilled to be back at work” and appreciate the leadership of the Board and our Superintendent. 

Action Item:  Approval of 2015-18 Tentative Agreement with SEA 
Deputy Superintendent Marla Miller thanked the bargaining teams who worked out the particulars of the Teachers’ Contract. Representing the SEA: Matt Alford, Amanda Finley, Tamara Hayes, John Kotwis, Lauren Paulhamus, Dani Pratt, Caitlin Rockey, Emily Slack, Pat Valle, and Lynn Sherry (UniServ Representative). Members of the District bargaining team: Lisa Gonzales, Ellen Kaje, Jonathan Nessan, Tam Osborne, Brian Schultz, and Marla Miller. Legal support provided by: Buzz Porter and Jay Schulkin of Porter Foster Rorick. 

Major points of the agreement were recently outlined by the District. (see previous article)

At the meeting, Deputy Superintendent Miller offered the following example. Under the old formula, a teacher with a Master’s Degree plus 17 years of experience would receive the following:
--$64,174 base salary from the state
--$16,788 TRI pay (Time, Responsibility, Initiative) from local levy proceeds
--$80,962 total salary package

Under the new formula, the same teacher will receive:
--$66,899 base salary
--$19,763 TRI pay
--$85,863 total salary package

Superintendent Miller noted that particular situations vary, and that figures will change according to the midpoint adjustment set to occur in November 2015. 

In addition to the points outlined in the news release:
• teachers will receive compensation for participation on district-level committees that meet outside of the school day;
• specialists (Speech Language Pathologists, Audiologists, OT/ PT, Psychologists) will receive a stipend for National Board Certification;
• substitutes will receive an extra $15/ day bonus for subbing on Mondays or Fridays (the District has had difficulty finding substitutes on these days); 
• on the first day of kindergarten, half of the class will attend in the morning and half in the afternoon.

Should the State reduce the District’s general fund levy proceeds, the contract will reopen. 

In response to Directors’ questions, Superintendent Miller assured them that the changes are all sustainable. Many of the additions will be phased in over one, two, or three years. 

The agreement was approved unanimously, and the Board extended thanks to both groups. Director Debi Ehrlichman noted that the “great” contract includes “so many aspects that are good for our students and our schools” and is a holistic view of what our schools need. All Directors agreed with her remark that it is nice to be in a position to “start putting things back”. 

Board Reports
Director Ehrlichman attended a meeting at Shoreline Community College and encouraged them to think about partnerships with our District. She also congratulated the District’s four National Merit Semifinalists:  Christopher Potter, Shannon Collier, Karl Reese, and Riley Smith. See National Merit Scholarship program announces semifinalists, Seattle Times 9.8.2015  

Director David Wilson looks forward to visiting schools in the next few weeks. 

Director Dick Nicholson attended the “worthwhile” Back to School Event, and enjoyed student presentations on opening day.



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Shoreline School District August 2015 Technology Update

Thursday, August 27, 2015

By Marianne Deal Stephens

At the August 24, 2015 Shoreline School Board Meeting, IT Director Jim Golubich offered a review of 2014-15 and a look ahead to 2015-16. Hardware and software for the School District is funded by the 2014 Capital Levy for Technology Improvements and Support, which replaced previous Tech Levies. Funds collected for this express purpose cannot be used for other programs.

Director Golubich’s presentation described a cycle of gradual, phased acquisition of new equipment, repair and trade-in of older equipment, and redeployment of that older equipment to fill needs elsewhere in the district. Increased demand for connectivity and the swift speed of software and hardware development present continuing challenges in the technology cycles.

2014-2015 Technology Review
The High School iPad program continues. A year ago, many of the original iPad 2s were traded in for iPad 4s, which have better screen resolution and a higher processing speed. Operating updates had become problematic on the old devices, more than the actual physical wear and tear. The net cost of the trade-in was approximately half of retail.

Grades 5-8 use Chromebooks at school, with 2,000 deployed in two phases. The Chromebooks use the Google Apps for Education (GAFE) platform, which is becoming standard for 4th grade and up in Shoreline. In 2014-15, students and staff became more accustomed to the apps and tools. School to home workflow improved since students now see the same interface whether they connect in class or at home.

The District made significant Audio-Visual upgrades in elementary and middle school classrooms. This follows the high school equipment upgrades that occurred with the moves into the new buildings. 250 rooms received speaker upgrades, and more than 200 classrooms have new interactive projectors/ document cameras. Staff received introductory training with the new equipment, though Director Golubich mentioned that since the timing was not optimal, the training will continue in 2015-16.

With the implementation of the iPad and Chromebook programs, laptops from previous programs became available. The machines that could be updated have been redeployed in elementary schools and for special programs like READ180. The “new” laptops doubled the level of access to technology for grades K-4 in 2014-15.

The new Smarter Balanced Assessments presented a challenge for the district technology staff, since the testing had to work on all platforms (iPad, Chromebook, Mac). Director Golubich mentioned that, from a technological standpoint, the testing went off “very well” and the process was “better than expected.” Additional headphones and keyboards will help with the testing in upcoming years, and also be put to use outside of assessments.

2015-2016 Technology Projects
This year, the final phase of the Chromebook implementation will make devices available in all 5th and 6th grade classrooms. The continued redistribution of iPads and MacBooks will add 30-60 laptops per elementary school, and so will comprise a threefold increase in K-4 access to technology in three school years.

System upgrades will be implemented to alleviate recent network slowdowns. The slowdowns have several causes: new apps require more power, more devices mean more simultaneous users, and cloud-based technology means more drag on the network. The District has arranged for a doubling of District bandwidth on the State K-20 Network which connects Washington public schools. The Shoreline IT Department has transitioning to new servers, to accommodate increased bandwidth. Network changes will be made over a weekend in September. 

More 2015-16 Projects
• upgrade of the 2-Way Radio system, to be launched during Winter Break; 
• pilot of new gradebook/ dashboard systems;
• replacement of older printers and document cameras; 
• acquisition of new iPad-enabled science tools;
• updates to library technology;
• instruction on online safety for 5th and 6th graders;
• continuation of professional development.

Director Golubich emphasized that while professional development was listed last for 2015-16, it is the most important aspect of the programs. The District plans and upgrades technology with an emphasis on curricular and pedagogical value.

Following the presentation, Members of the Board asked questions.
--Director Ehrlichman had received a concern about technology not working well for Apex online courses. Director Golubich explained that they tried a new tool which did not work, and so switched back to the original tool. Part of the problem is that the browsers could not be updated. They are working on the problem. [Apex online courses are primarily used for credit recovery at the secondary level.]

--Director Wilson inquired about network security. Director Golubich explained that the new servers and network upgrades have a significantly better firewall and will enhance security. The new systems offer “granular control”, a new filtering service, and the ability to offer privileged status to groups (like teachers) to ensure smooth connectivity. In terms of security and phishing, the District will have more control and there should be fewer cracks.

For more information: 



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August 24, 2015 Shoreline School Board Meeting Summary

Wednesday, August 26, 2015

By Marianne Deal Stephens

Well before the meeting was called to order by President Mike Jacobs, the Board Room at Shoreline Center was packed, primarily with Shoreline Education Association members. Many signed up to speak during the Community Comment period.

New Public Information Officer
The meeting opened with Superintendent Rebecca Miner’s introduction of the District’s new Public Information Officer. Curtis Campbell comes from the Sunnyside School District where he was the Director of Communications. PIO Campbell, his wife Annette, and their two children relocated to the Shoreline area from Eastern Washington.

Technology Update
Look for a separate article summarizing IT Director Jim Golubich’s annual report to the Board.

Financial Update
Deputy Superintendent Marla Miller and Director of Finance Mark Spangenberg displayed the summer financial summary and offered context. Though the District shows Cash Flow Actuals (see page 45 of the meeting packet), bills will keep coming in through September for work done during August. Hence, August books (and so the District’s 2014-15 Fiscal Year) will not be closed until mid-October, or possibly later.

Since there is current discussion of the General Fund Ending Fund Balance, Board President Mike Jacobs asked Superintendent Miller to go through pertinent detail.

GF Reserves (8.25.15) Source: Shoreline School District
Click to enlarge
 
The funds designated “Restricted” cannot be used for any other purpose. Some restricted monies are held for special programs like Title 1/ LAP (Learning Assistance Program), or ELL (English Language Learner Program).

The Ending Fund Balance for 2015-16 is projected to be $13,911,194, or 12.5% of total expenditures. Though this is a dollar increase from recent years, it is a percentage decrease. In 2014-15, the Ending Fund Balance was 15.5% of total expenditures, and in 2013-14, it was 18%. Of the $13,911,194 Ending Fund Balance, $8,393,833 is a Mandatory Reserve and cannot be spent. Only $5,517,361 can accurately be called Discretionary Reserves. 

Comments from the Community
During this portion of School Board meetings, students, parents, teachers, and members of the community may speak for up to two minutes. Most of the night’s speakers were members of the Shoreline Education Association.

--SEA President David Guthrie praised Shoreline teachers, who are ready to “do great things”, and “invest in our students”. Saying that “we must make it possible for teachers to take care of their own families,” he called for a financial foundation that is “both prudent and bullish.”

--Syre Teacher and Einstein and Shorewood Parent Julie Fredrickson expressed frustration that her own kids’ teachers are not being fairly compensated. When she was hired in 1992, teachers did not leave, but now they are leaving for higher salaries.

--Sue McAllister, Librarian at Kellogg Middle School, recently served as the school’s Smarter Balanced Assessment coordinator. She touted Kellogg’s and the District’s high scores—with averages up to 19 points above state averages—as indicators of educational and teacher excellence. She asked the Board to consider that “when excellence is acknowledged, it thrives.”

--Since Megan Chamberlin has worked in various capacities in Shoreline Schools—she now teaches 6th grade at Parkwood—district meetings “feel like going to a large family reunion.” She has experienced the District’s ups and downs, and said that while it is a relief to know that instructional cuts are behind us, it is not a relief to know that “I am devoting my time and experience to a district that does not compensate [adequately].”

--While most SEA members spoke about salaries, Highland Terrace Special Education Teacher Kerri Schloredt described how growing expectations, heavy demands, lack of planning time, and scant resources make it challenging to fully meet the needs of the district’s “most needy children.” She asked that some of the issues surrounding Special Education be addressed in the bargaining process. 

--Ilana Cunningham, both a Highland Terrace parent and a Shorewood Teacher, spoke about a colleague who left for more money in Everett. She does not think that low pay will affect things immediately, but it will be a problem “if we do not make a significant investment.”

--Pam Simpson, a Kellogg Math Teacher, comes from a family of educators, as do many Shoreline teachers. Reluctantly, she is considering leaving education because, even as a longtime teacher, she cannot pay all of her bills.

--Ridgecrest Teacher Lisa Witzel grew up in Richmond Beach. Speaking of the longevity of Shoreline’s community of educators, she asked for a show of hands of teachers who also have kids in the district. When many hands went up, she said “we stick around” and asked the District to show teachers the same respect.

Teachers described using their own money for supplies, voiced a desire to raise their own kids in the district, and expressed nervousness about what would happen if more teachers leave the district for more money. Most were hopeful and a few were angry. At the close of the Community Comment period, most of the teachers left the meeting. 

2015-16 Budget Hearing
Earlier in the summer, the School Board reviewed budget drafts, and, as required by State law, Monday’s meeting included a public hearing on the 2015-16 Budget.

Five funds make up the Shoreline School District Budget. The Board was asked to approve the following expenditure appropriation budgets:
  • General Fund $111,211,382
  • ASB Fund $2,641,000
  • Debt Service Fund $20,853,961
  • Capital Projects Fund $20,241,000
  • Transportation Vehicle Fund $1,060,000
Nearly 200 pages of detail on the five funds can be found in the August 24 meeting packet.

Deputy Superintendent Marla Miller pointed out that the 2015-16 General Fund Beginning Fund Balance is $15,627,786 and that the Ending Fund Balance will be $13,911,194, reflecting a reduction of approximately $1.7 million. 

General Fund Notes
• Maintains school staffing standards on the “Shoreline Model” with librarians, nurses, music specialists, family advocates, and paraprofessionals. 
• Levy funds pay for the Shoreline Model, which is not standard in all districts. 
• State funds cover about two-thirds the cost of a position. 
• State funds pay for five schools’ All-Day Kindergarten (ADK) programs. The district covers the rest of the schools; families are no longer charged for ADK tuition. 
• The State would like to reduce reliance on local levies to ensure greater equity across districts.

If and when the State alters districts’ current reliance on local levies, allocations directly from the state would come with limitations on how the funds can be used. Currently, Districts have flexibility to decide how to staff their schools. If more money comes from the state and less from local levy collection, additional requirements and restrictions will be imposed. State funding for ADK comes with additional requirements that the District will implement in order to use the state money. 

Capital Projects Fund Notes
• Monies cannot come over to the general fund to pay for smaller class sizes.
• Entirely locally funded; the District does not get State money aside from large projects like the new high schools. 

Questions From the Board and Points of Discussion
• Salaries comprise 85.38% of the 2015-16 budget. This figure remains consistent, with 84.5% in 2014-15 and 86.22% in 2013-14. 
• ASB Funds are being used in a more timely fashion than in previous years. 

As a part of the Budget Hearing, Board President Jacobs called for Public Comment.
--Tom Jamieson, a Shoreline resident and parent of a Shoreline Schools graduate, explained that he is neutral on the budget yet wanted to speak about past business involving the School District and the City of Shoreline. Mr. Jamieson described the Surface Water Utility dispute and stated that it is time for the district to pay its fair share. [For history of this issue, see the April 2012 Shoreline City Council Agenda Item 7e and a July 2012 news story about the City Council’s vote to continue the waiver on a temporary basis 

When no other community members spoke about the budget, Board President Jacobs closed the hearing and read Resolution No. 2015-13 Fixing, Approving, and Adopting the 2015-16 Budgets and Certification of Budget and Excess Levies for the 2016 Tax Year. 

Superintendent Rebecca Miner thanked District Staff, and Director Spangenberg in particular, for working hard to prepare the budget in a year that the process was very late. 

Board Reports
Debi Ehrlichman offered thanks ahead of time to the community groups and volunteers who put together the Back to School Event, which will be held this Saturday, August 29. Noting the smoke in the air, Director Ehrlichman expressed concern for the citizens in Eastern Washington who are contending with the fires.

Dick Nicholson reported on the recent KCDA board meeting and described how “sales are booming.” 

Mike Jacobs is looking forward to the upcoming school year and thanked all those in attendance.

The Board moved into an Executive Session following the adjournment of the meeting.



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School Board meeting Monday all about the budget

Sunday, August 23, 2015

School Board Meeting, Monday, August 24, 7 pm, Shoreline Center 18560 1st Ave N, Board Room

On the agenda:
  • Approval of Running Start 2015-2016 Program Interlocal Agreement with Walla Walla Community College;
  • Technology Update;
  • June and July 2015 Financial Update;
  • Public Hearing - Public Hearing and Adoption of Resolution No. 2015-13, Fixing, Approving and Adopting the 2015-2016 Budgets and Certifying Budget and Excess Levies for the 2016 Tax Year


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School Board Meeting Monday - budget discussion

Sunday, August 16, 2015

School Board Meeting Monday, August 17, 7 pm
Board Room, Shoreline Center, 18560 1st Ave NE

On the agenda:

Consent agenda:
  • Approval of 2015-2016 VEBA Memorandum of Understanding with Shoreline Confidential Employee Association;
  • Approval of 2015-2016 VEBA Memorandum of Understanding with Shoreline Professional-Technical Association;
  • Award of Contract and Total Project Budget Authorization - Transportation Building Modifications and Access Improvements;
  • Approval of Settlement of All Claims - Bayley Construction - Shorewood High School (Project 2);
  • Approval of 2015-2016 Highly Capable Students Program Grant;
  • Approval of Renewal of 2015-2016 Leases and Rates;
  • Approval of Extended Field Trips;
  • Approval of Personnel ;
  • Approval of Payroll and Vouchers; 
Report: 2015-2016 Preliminary Budget - General Fund 



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School Board Meeting Summary July 15, 2015

Saturday, July 25, 2015

2015 School Board
from left: Dick Nicholson, Richard Potter, David Wilson,
Debi Ehrlichman, Mike Jacobs

By Marianne Deal Stephens

The Shoreline School Board meets once a month during the summer and every two weeks during the school year. The July 15 meeting felt like business as usual despite the summer break. 

Consent Agenda
The evening’s Consent Agenda pertained mostly to improvements on the District’s properties: a project to upgrade the district-wide 2-way radio system; change orders for the Shorecrest building and the Shorewood fields; a project to improve site circulation improvements at Brookside Elementary.

The Agenda also included acceptance of community gifts. The Cascade K-8 PTSA gifted $5773 for K-5 Outdoor Camp, and the Shorecrest Boosters gifted $63,415 to Shorecrest to assist more than 40 student groups including Debate Team, Interact Club, Latino Club, Ultimate Frisbee, Highland Dancers, Drama, and many other athletic, academic, arts, and community service groups. The Board approved four extended field trips: Lake Forest Park 6th graders to Camp Orkila; Shorecrest Cross Country to a meet in Seaside, Oregon, and to the State Meet in Pasco, WA; Cascade 8th Graders to Fort Worden State Park for a Young Artist Project. 

Home Education Exchange (HEE) Annual Report
HEE Coordinator and Lead Teacher Ron Jones offered an overview of the Home Education Exchange program, which is run out the North City Elementary School and shares use of the facility with six groups that run independent educational programs. The program currently serves 115 students from 69 families, with 95 FTE (full-time-equivalent students). HEE offers classes and activities to support families who choose home education. This year, the program’s 17th, was a relatively stable one without multiple regulatory changes passed down from OSPI. 

Mr. Jones shared that about 55% of the student population is from the Shoreline School District, and about 45% are from other districts in the area. Participating families often have one or two students in regular schools and one or two students in home education. There is an even distribution from kindergarten through 8th grade. 

HEE follows OSPI guidance for Alternative Learning Experience (ALE) and students have individualized learning plans. The program evaluates every 30 days, and requires the parents to report what they have done at home. At the end of every school year, HEE has 9 months of student learning reports. The OSPI conducts audits of HEE, including a special performance audit to examine student achievement. 

Home Education, like other state public schools, adopted the Smarter Balanced Tests (SBAC) this past year. Mr. Jones explained that while some homeschool parents want to “cut the tether” between their student and the state, the program had only one student opt out of the tests this year. Though not all students had previous computer experience, they adapted quickly to the computer evaluation and say that they prefer standardized tests on computer to those given on paper. The SBAC results for HEE are on average with the District [school by school results of the SBAC tests are not yet public]. 

This summer, HEE plans to hire an additional half-time certificated teacher in order to expand the program by 30 FTE students. Mr. Jones anticipates another relatively stable year with a few new challenges and lots of student learning. 

May 2015 Financial Update and Enrollment Report
Director of Finance and Business Mark Spangenberg and Deputy Superintendent Marla Miller presented the May 2015 financials. (page 69 of the 7.15.15 packet). Director Spangenberg noted that at the conclusion of May, 51% of the levies had been collected, which is a higher percentage than in previous years. The district will collect a little less in the fall. 

The June 1 Enrollment Report shows a total headcount of 9085 students, which is similar to the September 2014 headcount of 9142. Director Nicholson asked about a projection for next year, and Deputy Superintendent Miller noted that they expect about a 2% increase in 2015-16.

Legislative Update
Deputy Superintendent Marla Miller presented an overview of five major areas in which legislative changes will impact the District. 

1) Legislative Update: McCleary 
Following the 2012 McCleary Decision, the state was ordered to adequately fund basic education. As part of the ramp-up to a mandated level of basic education, the state will implement class size reductions in K-3 only for 2015-16. The levels will be:  Kindergarten: 22; 1st grade: 23; 2nd grade: 24 3rd grade: 25. Current staffing for Shoreline follows:  K: 23; 1: 25; 2: 25; 3:25.9. Overall, the District will need about 10 more classrooms in 2015-16. For 2016-17, the class size levels will reduce further. 

McCleary changes also affect funding for All-Day Kindergarten (ADK) which Shoreline has already implemented at all elementary schools. Shoreline’s ADK will remain the same; only the funding source for four Shoreline elementary schools will shift to the state in 2015-16. State funding will cover ADK in more schools in 2016-17. In order to use state funds rather than local funds, Shoreline will adopt the WAKids Whole Child Assessment as a part of the overall program. 

With the expansion of basic education comes a new formula for Maintenance, Supplies, and Operating Costs, which were $848/ student for 2014-15. These supply funds will increase to $1210.05/ student in 2015-16 and $1230.62 in 2016-17. These funds could be used broadly in our district.
 
2) Legislative Update: Initiatives
I-1351, the class size measure passed in 2014, will be delayed. Deputy Superintendent Miller noted that this delay does not add to or subtract from our resources. As noted above, the state and local districts are implementing class size reductions related to the increase in basic education funding. 

I-732, pertaining to COLA (Cost of Living Adjustment) for teachers, had previously been suspended for several years and now will be implemented, though in a different way than originally presented. Effective September 1st, this means an increase of 3% for 2015-16. Deputy Superintendent Miller expects that the state will change models for teacher compensation over the next couple of years, and hopes that the COLA will be embedded in whatever the new model will be.

3) Legislative Update: Reduce Reliance on Local Levies
The legislature continues to discuss the levy swap idea, though there were no definitive decisions.
Deputy Superintendent Miller shared that the levy swap concept has been called “levy swipe” since districts like Shoreline would not be able to maintain current levels of local funding.

Most likely, a new model, intended to ensure greater equity among school districts, would reduce our maximum levy collection and set a new mechanism for collection.

While our ability to use locally raised funds would decrease, proponents of the idea say that increases in state funding for major expenditures of basic education would compensate for the losses. 
Currently, the state funds less than 75% of regular Shoreline School District employees, and local funds pay for the “Shoreline model” that includes librarians, nurses, and family advocates.

The possibilities of a substantially altered funding model create current difficulties for the District:  Deputy Superintendent Miller said that the question is how we plan for the future when we are not certain what funds we will have. 

4) Legislative Update: School Facility Needs
Though the state is stepping up in regard to more aspects of basic education, it is unlikely that Shoreline would receive any extra funding for additional classrooms related to All Day Kindergarten or class size reduction.

5) Legislative Update: Graduation Requirements
Oddly enough, graduation requirements, and the Biology End of Course (EOC) Exam in particular, ended up being a bargaining chip at the end of legislative deliberations. Lawmakers suspended the requirement for students to pass the Biology EOC in order to graduate. Some students who did not receive diplomas because they had not passed this test are now eligible. 

Preliminary Budget 
The extra legislative sessions created challenges for all state school districts since changes impact funding formulas. Normally, the Shoreline School District produces a comprehensive Preliminary Budget and holds a Budget Hearing on the General Fund in July, but the hearing will be delayed until August 17, 2015

The Preliminary Budget presented at the July 15 meeting included the following: Capital Projects Fund, Debt Service Fund, Associated Student Body Fund, and Transportation Vehicle Fund. The Capital Projects budget includes security and facility improvement projects funded with the 2006 Bond and continues the purchasing of major equipment under the Technology Levy. The Transportation Vehicle Fund budget includes expenditures of more than $1 million, primarily related to bus replacement. 

Action Item: Early Payoff of 2005 Bonds
The School Board approved review of an early payoff of 2005 Limited General Obligation bonds. Paying off the bonds early would save District taxpayers an estimated $464,741 in interest payments. Legal counsel and financial advisors will review the proposal. 

Board Reports
Director David Wilson commended Kim Reich, Elementary Summer School Principal, and Rebbecah Emanuel, Secondary Summer School Principal. Both summer school programs are going well. Director Wilson had also attended Shorewood PTSA’s Summer Write and Ready College Application Essay Workshops and praised that effort by the PTSA’s After Shorewood committee.



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Shoreline School Board Meeting: Teachers do not rule out a strike

Tuesday, June 23, 2015

June 15, 2015 Shoreline School District School Board Meeting Summary
By Marianne Deal Stephens

On Monday, June 15, the Board Room at Shoreline Center was crowded, with Shoreline School District Teachers occupying most of the chairs. As President Mike Jacobs watched the clock to open the meeting, several teachers signed in to speak during the Community Comment period. 

Consent Agenda: Baseball, Summer School, and Camps

Without discussion, the Board passed a 20-item consent agenda. Most of the items were contracts or routine matters, but a few items are of note. The Board:

  • Awarded a bid for Shorecrest High School Baseball and Softball Field Improvement to Ohno Construction Company. The funds will come from the Capital Projects Fund - 2006 Bond Authorization.
  • Approved the feasibility/ design phase of a project aimed at improving the traffic flow at Meridian Park.
  • Accepted gifts from the Shoreline Public Schools Foundation:  $11,000 for Elementary Summer School, and $14,000 for Secondary Summer School.  Grant funds will be used for tuition assistance.
  • Approved the 2015-16 Calendar.
  • Approved Extended Field Trips:  Shorewood Golf to State; Shorewood and Shorecrest yearbook staff members (1 from Shorewood, 3 from Shorecrest) to Northwest Yearbook Workshop in Tacoma; Shorecrest Cheer Squad to Camp at Central Washington University. 

Financial Update and Enrollment Reports: End-of-the Year Status

As he presented the latest budget update, Director of Finance and Business Mark Spangenberg brought attention to a few characteristics of end of the school year finances. He noted that the district has collected 44.3% of the total 2015 levy amount, which comes in at periodic intervals. In reference to the currently healthy End Fund Balance, Director Spangenberg explained that the balance is largely restricted by mandatory reserves for Workers Comp and other items committed by Board Resolution.

Since employees are paid on a 12-month cycle and revenues do not come in evenly throughout the school year, he expects that the End Fund Balance will drop by $3 million in the next months. View the latest Budget Documents online.

Regarding enrollment, Director Spangenberg pointed out the May 2015 total student head count of 9106 is higher than the May 2014 figure of 8878. The June enrollment report, which had just come in prior to the meeting, has a total of 9085.

The district ends the year just about where it started, with 9142 in September 2014. 

Comments from the Community: Teachers Speak

David Guthrie, President of the Shoreline Education Association (SEA), outlined the teachers’ perspective. On June 11, the SEA membership voted to authorize a strike should the bargaining team does not come to an acceptable agreement. [The SEA and the District are currently bargaining the teachers’ contract.]

Referring to how the School District praises its teachers and touts the quality of education available in Shoreline, Mr. Guthrie said it is “unconscionable that Shoreline teachers are paid less than all teachers in the area”. He brought attention to the national problem of the shrinking middle class and said that a significant pay raise would be “sign of respect” and is the teachers’ due for a job well done. 

Many young teachers described how their initial enthusiasm for working in Shoreline has been tempered by financial realities. Shorecrest High School Social Studies Teacher Brett Vlahovich does not want to leave the district, but might have to as he cannot afford rent in Shoreline.

Molly Boone, a second year teacher at Ridgecrest Elementary and a product of Shoreline Schools, is living her dream now teaching alongside her former teachers. However, most of her paycheck goes to student loans. 

Echo Lake Elementary’s Claire Steadman Hammill, also a graduate of Shoreline Schools, explained that she cannot afford to start a family, and that better compensation would treat the teachers like the professionals they are by matching their dedication and love for the district. 

Veteran teachers, whose pay is higher because of their experience, spoke on similar themes. Syre Elementary Teacher Tom Hayes, who has spent his entire teaching career in Shoreline, described the irony of the teachers working so that students are ready for college yet struggling to get their own kids through college. Mr. Hayes mentioned that this teaching community is “deserving of a generous contract”. 

Salary was not the only complaint.

Lisa Witzel of Ridgecrest Elementary recounted the uncompensated time for serving  on committees. Lori Scobie of Lake Forest Park Elementary mentioned the “time- and soul-consuming evaluation system”, more standardized tests, and high out of pocket costs for medical care. Ruth Jacobsen, who works as a substitute teacher, held up her sticky-noted copy of Toni Morrison’s Beloved as evidence of her uncompensated time preparing to teach the novel as a long-term substitute. Another teacher mentioned how experienced teachers who mentor new colleagues no longer get an extra stipend for doing so. 

Several other teachers from Shoreline elementary, middle, and high schools echoed Mr. Guthrie and one another. Einstein Teacher Ellen Smith described how the teachers want to be here in Shoreline, but without having to sacrifice $10,000 a year to do so. She and most of the teachers said that they were asking for raises for themselves and for future Shoreline educators. 

Comments from the Community: A Goodbye

Outgoing Shorecrest Principal Pat Hegarty stood before the Board to convey his “deep, deep thanks” for his start in the District 30 years ago, the many mentors had as a young teacher, and the opportunities he has had here as a teacher and principal. On July 1, he will start a new career in another district. 

Board Reports: the 2015-16 School Year Concludes

The meeting was held with Shorecrest and Shorewood Commencement fresh in the minds of the Board Members, who helped hand out diplomas during the ceremonies on June 14. Most members also attended senior last day events at the high schools. Debi Ehrlichman and Richard Potter praised this year’s Cain Laida, the moving up ceremony for seniors at Shorecrest.  

The Board adjourned for a closed Executive Session to discuss bargaining issues. 

See the Shoreline School Board site for agendas, minutes, and meeting schedules.



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Shoreline School District Approves New Secondary Social Studies and Science Curricula

Saturday, June 20, 2015

By Marianne Deal Stephens

On June 1st, 2015 Shoreline School District Director of Teaching and Learning Teri Poff offered a briefing of recent decisions by the District Instructional Materials Committee (DIMC).

The committee, which consists of administrators, teachers, and parents, recently reviewed social studies and science curriculum options.

All materials were piloted in classes, usually alongside other options, and teacher and student input was collected and evaluated. Shorewood Social Studies Department Chair Lara Sukol led the Social Studies pilot, and Instructional Specialist for Science Lisa Chen spearheaded the review of various science texts. 

The committee approved the Brown University Choices as a supplemental Social Studies curriculum for Senior Civics courses. Students are “presented with scenarios (choices) and there are lessons with role-playing, writing, and graphic organizers” (Minutes from 5.27.15 DIMC Meeting). Choices also aligns with Common Core literacy standards.

Here are excerpts from the DIMC Recommendation regarding Choices. Curricula are evaluated for intended use, adherence to standards, bias, and several other factors. 

Source: Shoreline School District. 

The committee also approved:

The entire DIMC report containing student and teacher feedback, sample lessons, and detailed reviews of each newly adopted instructional material can be found on pages 162-348 of the June 1 School Board Agenda Packet. On June 15th, the School Board unanimously approved DIMC’s recommendations.



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Shoreline School District aims for Equity

Thursday, June 18, 2015

Source: City of Portland, OR

By Marianne Deal Stephens

At the June 1st Shoreline School Board Meeting, Executive Director of Schools Brian Schultz presented the report from the Shoreline District Equity Committee which has been meeting over the school year.

For much of the year, the District undertook a self-inventory process which “was designed to support your district in taking a deep look at current organizational and system infrastructures with the intent of identifying systemic barriers and gaps that can be addressed to reduce inequalities in student outcomes and increase equity and opportunities for academic success” (Shoreline Public Schools Equity Profile 2015, p. 1).

Director Schultz praised the group — which consisted of counselors, family advocates, teachers, administrators, staff, parents, a community member, and a student— saying that they had all learned to see issues through different lenses.

Source: Shoreline School District


The Puget Sound Educational Service District (PSESD) oversaw this work, and created four key dimensions to synthesize the data and help Shoreline plan for equity. The four key dimensions are: Equity Policies and Plans; Leadership for Equity; Access to Programs and Services; and System Supports for Equity. Though changes will take time, the District will adopt the PSESD’s guiding recommendations for the 2015-16 school year.

Source: Shoreline School District

Starting this fall, the district will: establish an Equity Advisory Committee; create a position for Director of District Equity; incorporate new goals and standards in policies, processes, and policy; and work to embed the principles in school district matters.

Efforts will extend into professional development, data collection, language services, assessment, and many other aspects of district operation. Regarding access to programs, the committee issued the following recommendations: 

Source: Shoreline School District

Director Schultz emphasized that the district intends to be research-based and to implement changes that are measurable. The administration wants new families and those in transition to feel welcome and will look at the Family Friendly Schools process.

For more details on the District Equity Committee’s Recommendations, see Director Schultz’s report and the PSESD’s Profile on pages 115-143 of the June 1 Agenda packet



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School District Business and Operations

By Marianne Deal Stephens

The Latest from Business and Operations in the Shoreline School District
On June 1st, Deputy Superintendent Marla Miller and the directors of five District divisions under her offered updates. 

Feeding Students
Jessica Finger, Director of Food and Nutrition Services, described how participation is rebounding following a decrease attributed to government guidelines’ effect on district menus. Student stores have also been affected by the regulations. 

Image courtesy Shoreline Schools
Note:  HHFKA is the Health Hunger-Free Kids Act which regulated 
the ingredients and offerings in the National School 
Lunch and School Breakfast Programs.


Significant developments in food service in the past year:
  • 11 new salad bars financed by a grant from the Whole Foods Foundation
  • consumption of fruit and vegetables has increased at all school levels
  • online payment now available for school meals
  • breakfast added to 3 sites; all schools now offer breakfast
  • vegan and Halal options are being added
  • District Wellness Council being organized; membership includes athletics, PTSA, parents, administrators
Image courtesy Shoreline Schools


Transporting Students
Director of Transportation Mary Sherman described how the district transports an average of 5657 students every day with 414 daily runs: 146 morning, 97 midday, 147 afternoon, 24 after school. The “after school” runs include college transition, IEP-driven physical therapy, activity, sports practices, and homework club. In the past year, the district has switched from contracting out for vehicle maintenance to doing the work in-house. Current projects: the garage is being altered to better accommodate 84 buses; new buses may be longer to carry more students; a class to train bus drivers has begun; the shortage of substitute bus drivers is a problem nationwide. For more information, see the District Transportation page

Maintaining Buildings and Grounds
Bruce Camp, Director of Maintenance and Operations, oversees the maintenance and custodial care of grounds and buildings, including tasks like ensuring science classrooms comply with chemical hygiene procedures. In the past year, his office has processed 4280 work orders and completed 4170 of them. Cases of graffiti and vandalism have decreased due to after-hours security and timely graffiti removal. 

Director Camp discussed the maintenance of the new high schools and showed a video demonstrating equipment: backpack vacuums make cleanups quicker; “chariot” autoscrubbers clean, squeege, and polish floors, cutting out drying time; and touchless cleaners combine sprayers and wet/dry vacs to streamline bathroom maintenance. The larger custodial equipment for the high schools came out of capital funding since the equipment is necessary to maintain the new buildings. He noted that the new high schools are easy to clean: the polished concrete floors are versatile and don’t require high maintenance steps, and the multi-level design means that most of the debris and wear is confined to the main floors.

Director Camp also oversees the recycling and composting efforts at the schools, which have largely depended on the motivation of students at each school. He mentioned Carson Thomas at Shorewood who has been the force behind the high school’s successful recycling and food waste procedures. 

Hiring and Supporting Employees
Director of Human ResourcesTam Osborne described how the HR department oversees hiring, compensation, labor law compliance, and other procedures involving employees. The substitute teacher pool is run by HR, and the district currently has a substitute shortage, as do many school districts. The district is adopting an electronic application system which will go live in November 2015. Overall, applications for open positions were up, yet that did not reflect an increase in minority applicants. The district would like to “attract and hire a diverse workforce that is more reflective of our student and school commmunity” and will continue to advertise and seek assistance in attracting candidates. When asked if he visits universities seeking applicants, Director Osborne replied at this year he “hit the jackpot” at Seattle University with a few school psychologists. 

Keeping Track of Everything
Director of Finance and Business Services Mark Spangenberg, referring to the video demonstration of cleaning equipment, offered a tongue-in-cheek apology for not bringing a video of people doing accounting. Director Spangenberg comes before the Board once a month to present the monthly balance sheet. He noted that in the past year the district was 7th in the state for local revenues as a percentage. The Children’s Center provides a significant portion of this local revenue. Recent efficiencies include: online food service payments; Brown Paper Ticket service for some performing arts events; altered processing of payment for substitutes. 

District Organization
To get an idea of how the Shoreline School District is organized, see the District Office Organizational Chart.



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