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

CORRECTION: Candidates file for City Councils and School Board

Sunday, May 19, 2019

As of the end of the filing period on Friday, May 17, 2019, these candidates had filed for the city council in Shoreline and Lake Forest Park and for the Shoreline School Board.

Lake Forest Park Mayor
  • Jeff Johnson has filed for another term as mayor. He is unopposed.
City of Lake Forest Park, Council Position 2
  • Catherine Stanford - incumbent
  • Lorri Bodi
City of Lake Forest Park, Council Position 4
  • Phillippa Kassover - incumbent
  • Brett Newsham
City of Lake Forest Park, Council Position 6
  • Tom French - incumbent
  • Justin Johnson
  • Tracy Furutani

City of Shoreline, Council Position 2
  • Keith Patrick Scully - incumbent
  • Vivian Collica
City of Shoreline, Council Position 4
  • David Chen
  • Doris McConnell - incumbent
  • Ginny Scantlebury
City of Shoreline, Council Position 6
  • Betsy Robertson - appointed to position
  • Luis Berbesi
Shoreline School District 412, Director District 1
  • Michael Jacobs - incumbent
  • Meghan Jernigan
Shoreline School District 412, Director District 4
  • Rebeca Rivera
  • Richard Nicholson - incumbent
Shoreline School District 412, Director District 5 - open seat
  • Joe Cunningham
  • Sara Betnel
  • Mike Dee McMullin
School board incumbent Dick Potter District #5 did not file for another term. His seat has three candidates, who will be in the primary.

The primary election on August 6, 2019 will include races with more than two candidates. Council position #6 in Lake Forest Park and Council position #4 in Shoreline will be on the primary ballot, as will the open seat #5 on the school board. The top two will be in the November election with all the other council and school board elections.

Candidates for school board have to live in the particular district but everyone in Shoreline and Lake Forest Park votes for all seats.

The only geographic restriction for City council candidates is that they live in the city.


Updated school board information 5-19-19


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January is School Board recognition month

Saturday, January 12, 2019

The Shoreline School District Board of Directors
Name and District # from left: #5 Dick Potter, #1 President Michael Jacobs,
#2 Heather Fralick, #3 VP David Wilson, #4 Dick Nicholson

Nationwide and throughout Washington state, school districts are currently celebrating School Board Recognition Month. This year marks the 24th year of this annual observance initiated by the National School Boards Association.

With a proclamation from Governor Jay Inslee, the Washington State School Directors’ Association, the Association of Educational Service Districts and the broader education community take time each January to honor board members from Washington’s 295 school districts and nine elected educational service district boards.

Like our legislators elected to serve in Olympia, Washington’s 1477 school board members are local citizens elected to represent and respond to the interests of their community.

School Board Directors have to live in the District they represent
Very few neighborhoods are wholly within a district.
Residents vote on all the Directors and the
Directors represent the entire school district
 

“The role of school boards is to provide visionary leadership and governance, which requires a great deal of time and energy,” said WSSDA Executive Director Tim Garchow. 
“We’re fortunate that community members have the opportunity to step into the role of school director, but even more fortunate that we have 1,477 citizens committed to filling that role in service to our state’s youth.”

In total, Washington’s school directors govern districts serving 1.1 million students, with a combined annual budget of over $15 billion, employing about 120,000 people.

As they help districts navigate a variety of complex educational and social issues, let us thank our school board members for their service. Their efforts are crucial to building a thriving, equitable system of public education for all students.

See the governor's proclamation.

"Public education does not serve a public; it creates a public.” — Neal Postman



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Grand Opening for The WORKS at its new home at the Shoreline Center

Thursday, November 8, 2018

Shoreline Council PTA Co-Presidents Silje Sodal and Susie Moore address the crowd 
at The WORKS grand opening. Photo by Curtis Campbell


There was a lot of love at The WORKS Grand Opening, held in its new space on the evening of November 5th! 

To celebrate this milestone event, Shoreline PTA Council hosted Shoreline School Board members, Superintendent Rebecca Miner, Deputy Superintendent Marla Miller, Capital Projects Manager Dan Stevens, Rotary Club of Lake Forest Park, and a bevy of supporters, volunteers, teachers and principals, along with one of the original founders of The WORKS in 2002, Karen Dixon.

Shoreline PTA Council Co-Presidents Silje Sodal and Susie Moore welcomed the crowd and briefly described how The WORKS needed to relocate this past summer from the North City Elementary portables due to the exciting new school construction currently happening in the District.

While a PTA Council task force researched options for relocating, the District 'saved the day' by offering use of a surplus storage space within the Shoreline Center.

From left: Shoreline School District Superintendent Rebecca Miner, Shoreline School Board member Heather Fralick, Shoreline School Board President David Wilson, Former Shoreline Council PTA President Kim Ositis, Shoreline School Board Vice President Michael Jacobs, Chair of The WORKS Jill Steinberg, and Shoreline School Board member Dick Nicholson.
Photo by Curtis Campbell


Susie and Silje thanked Supt. Miner and Deputy Supt. Miller for their generous support and creative solution.

Jill Steinberg, Chair of The WORKS, thanked community members for their donations and significant volunteer time, noting that The WORKS wouldn't exist without such strong community support over the years.

She also gave special thanks to the Rotary Club of Lake Forest Park which recently provided funds for $1,200 worth of new winter coats, the new rolling divider wall in the store and funds for outdoor signage. Heidi Shepherd of Rotary Club of Lake Forest Park spoke fondly of feeling part of the Shoreline School District family.

Superintendent Miner closed with kind words describing the District’s strong partnership with Shoreline PTA Council, and the celebration concluded with a ribbon cutting ceremony and tour of The WORKS / Council PTA office. Shoreline School Board President David Wilson had the honor of cutting the ribbon to much applause.

The WORKS is a free clothing resource provided by Shoreline PTA Council and is open on Wednesday evenings for Shoreline School District families from 6:30-8:00pm when school is in session (they will be closed on November 21).

Families in need of clothing assistance who cannot make it to The WORKS on Wednesdays can contact Jill Steinberg at shorelineptaworks@gmail.com or 206-393-4916 to set up a private, confidential appointment.

During the 2017-2018 school year, The WORKS served over 700 students at the Wednesday night store, and this year that number is expected to rise even higher. The store is located at 18560 1st Avenue NE, on the north side of the Shoreline Center.

Some attendees getting a tour of The WORKS store
Photo by Curtis Campbell

If you would like to donate to The WORKS, new or gently used shoes and clothing in kid sizes 4T-16 are accepted, along with adult shoes and clothing that is appropriate for high school students.

Items can be dropped off at The WORKS on a Wednesday night between 6:30-8:00pm. Clothing and shoes can also be dropped off at the Shoreline Training and Production Center, the red brick building to the east of The WORKS (with the smoke stack), on Monday-Thursday 9:30-1:00pm. If you need to schedule an alternate drop off time, please contact Jill Steinberg at shorelineptaworks@gmail.com.

Currently at the top of The WORKS’ wishlist are leggings for girls (sizes 4T-16) and winter coats and sneakers in all sizes.



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School board members sworn in at Monday's meeting

Thursday, December 7, 2017

Shoreline Schools superintendent Rebecca Miner
swears in David Wilson and Heather Fralick
Photo courtesy Shoreline Schools

Newly elected and re-elected school board members were sworn in at the meeting on Monday, December 4, 2017 by Schools Superintendent Rebecca Miner.

David Wilson was re-elected to the board and then elected by the board members to be President.

Heather Fralick begins her term on the board, newly elected from District #2.

Terms are four years.

They join board members Michael Jacobs, Dick Nicholson, Dick Potter and student reps Christopher King from Shorecrest and Luel Mitiku from Shorewood.


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LFP Council meeting with School Board Thursday

Monday, October 23, 2017

LFP City Hall
The LFP City Council will hold a joint meeting with the Shoreline School Board on Thursday, October 26, 2017 from 5:30pm - 6:30pm in City Hall Council Chambers, 17425 Ballinger Way NE.

The School Board will report on:
  • Impact of McCleary funding put into place during the last State Legislative Session: Financial Impact to the School District and Levy Impacts
  • School District Demographics: Current enrollment, projected growth, poverty statistics 

City of Lake Forest Park will talk about their “Big 5” projects and connection to schools.

LFP Police will discuss community outreach and involvement



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Gov. Inslee proclaims January as School Board Recognition Month

Monday, December 26, 2016

Shoreline School Board. From left: Dick Nicholson, Dick Potter,
David Wilson, Debi Ehrlichman, Michael Jacobs


Governor Jay Inslee has proclaimed January as School Board Recognition Month. This marks the 22nd year of the annual observance initiated by the National School Boards Association in 1995.

The Washington State School Directors’ Association, Association of Educational Service Districts and broader education community take time in January to honor board members from Washington’s 295 school districts and nine elected educational service district boards.

“Washington’s 1,477 local school directors set the direction for policy and governance of our state’s 295 school districts,” said WSSDA Executive Director Tim Garchow. “They exemplify the difference between involvement and commitment. My hat is off to them for their dedication to the children of Washington.”

All told, Washington’s school directors govern districts with more than one million students, a combined annual budget of about $11 billion, and employ 160,000 people.

These volunteer school board members play a crucial role in developing policies and making tough decisions on complex educational and social issues. These issues affect the entire state. They are also directly accountable to the citizens in their districts, serving as a vital link between members of the community and their schools.

During January, school districts across the state will honor their local school boards and publicly thank board members for their hard work.

The proclamation has been posted online.



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Joint meeting of Shoreline City Council and Shoreline School Board Monday

Monday, October 10, 2016

Shoreline City Council Meetings

Monday, October 10, 2016 – Special Meeting 5:30 p.m.- Shoreline School Board

Monday, October 10, 2016 – Regular Meeting 7:00 p.m.
Agenda Highlights
- Discussion and Update of the 2017-2022 Surface Water Master Plan
- Discussion of Parks, Recreation and Open Space Master Plan
- Transmittal of the 2017 Proposed Budget and 2017-2022 Capital Improvement Plan

Link to full Agenda
Comment on Agenda items


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Highlights from June 2016 Shoreline School District Board Meetings: Students, Books, and Courses

Tuesday, July 5, 2016

By Marianne Deal Stephens

In June 2016, the Shoreline School Board reviewed and passed several items relating to classroom academics and student activities. Shoreline students are well supported by generous community organizations which held major fundraisers this spring and made significant donations to Shoreline Schools for the upcoming 2016-2017 school year.

New Shorecrest Student Representative Introduced
On June 6, Shorecrest Student Representative to the Board Rachel Semon introduced her successor, Owen Leupold. Owen will participate in School Board meetings either fall or spring semester of 2016-2017, and his Shorewood counterpart will cover the other semester.

Gifts Impacting Student Academics and Activities

  • $40,660 from Shorecrest Boosters for student teams, clubs, and trips, including Viva Voce (choir) trip to Carnegie Hall, Ultimate Frisbee equipment, Art Club SAM membership, ASB assemblies, and Model UN. See detail
  • $24,649 from the Shoreline Public Schools Foundation for Elementary Summer School; 
  • $12,350 from the Shoreline Public Schools Foundation for Secondary Summer School; 
  • $6,000 from the Shoreline Public Schools Foundation for Nonfiction Books in Secondary Libraries;
  • $6,124.50 from Shorewood Boosters for Specific Donations to several groups, including band and cross country;
  • $37,521.02 from Shorewood Boosters for Sports and Clubs including Football, Live Video Production, Special Olympics United Soccer, and Art Attack. 
Approval of Extended Field Trips
  • Shorecrest and Shorewood State Track and Field qualifiers to Tacoma in May 2016;
  • Shorecrest Yearbook Staff to Tacoma for Workshop in July 2016;
  • Shorewood Cross Country to Camp Casey in August 2016;
  • Brookside 6th Graders to Camp Orkila for Outdoor Education in September 2016;
  • Shorewood Cross Country to Portland for Nike Portland XC Meet in September 2016;
  • Shorecrest Drama Students to New York for Training in February 2017;
  • Shorecrest Choir to Carnegie Hall in Spring 2017;
  • Shorecrest Band to Portland for the Portland Starlight Parade in June 2017. 
Revisions to Shorecrest ASB Constitution
On June 20, the Board approved several revisions that Shorecrest ASB Student Leaders researched thoroughly and passed through Shorecrest student government. Student leaders appeared at the meeting along with Accounting and Business Manager Sharon Suver-Jones and Shorecrest Activity Coordinator Johanna Phillips. Many revisions are minor alterations in process, including procedures for visitors at meetings and the timing of the annual constitutional review.

A more significant revision alters the GPA requirement in order to allow students who made mistakes early in their high school years to participate in student leadership.

Source: Shorecrest Activities, Shoreline School District

Another alteration allows students with a compelling reason to miss leadership camp (an annual event attended by both Shorecrest and Shorewood student leaders) held at Cispus Learning Center in Southwest Washington. Ms. Suver-Jones noted that Shorewood Student Leadership will review their constitution next year and present any changes to the Board in 2016-2017.

Community Comment on Shoreline School Schedule
Shorewood High School Junior Loren Stephens spoke to the Board on June 6 about the impact of the school year schedule on students in AP courses. She described how there is a essentially a separate “AP Year” that begins with summer homework and ends with the exams in early May. She described how “there is no way that teachers can teach to adequate depth” and how students must learn units of the curriculum on their own. She noted that the Washington Post recently ranked Shorewood as one of the most rigorous high schools due in large part to high AP participation and that the schedule puts additional pressure on high school students in AP courses at both high schools. She requested that the school year start and finish earlier.

NEW COURSES APPROVED
When any school in the District would like to offer a new course, the Program Alignment and Coherence Team (PACT) reviews a petition and grants a one-year pilot. Based on the positive feedback about the following pilot courses, the Board approved them as permanent course offerings starting in 2016-2017. Dr. Teri Poff presented the following courses for approval on June 6, and the Board approved them unanimously. To review course evaluations, see 2015-2016 PACT Pilot Courses Recommended for Approval. Quotations below are taken from this document. 


AVID, a year-long elective for Grade 8, focuses on helping students in the academic middle learn to be successful students and deep thinkers. The staff observed increases in both data points (grades, enrollment, attendance rates) and in other qualities like self-advocacy, confidence, connections to peers and to the school, and belief in future possibilities. Students said that the course made them “more determined and more confident” and that the field trips “made me think about my future in a positive way.” There was a great demand for this course at Einstein, where the pilot course was run. It will expand to Kellogg next year, and the staff are hopeful that there could be multiple sections of the course in 8th and 9th grade. AVID courses are offered nationally.

AP Comparative Government and Politics, a one-semester Social Studies/ General Elective for Grades 11-12, appeals to students interested in politics, human rights, and international affairs. Comments in the packet indicate that staff would like to combine this course with Senior Civics: “the class would explode and be a great class for students that are traditional AP and other students wanting to try an AP.” However, the course was passed with the caveat that it does not replace the Senior Civics requirement. The course examines political institutions in six countries. One student commented that “I was given a new worldview” and another that the course “related international issues to domestic ones that affect us in daily life.” For more information, see AP Comparative Government.

AP Computer Science Principles, a year-long CTE/ Occupational Ed/ General Elective for Grades 11-12 is “foundational to understanding how computing, including related political issues, breakthrough technologies, how the internet works, problem solving, programming, and much more.” The course used Code . org curriculum  for the AP Course. A student remarked that the class “progressed upwards so nothing was hard as I could use what I had learned the previous day.” This is a new AP course, and there was not a corresponding AP exam this year, but there will be in 2017. See AP Computer Science Principles.

Advanced Engineering Applications 1, a year-long CTE/ Occupational Ed/ General Elective for Grades 10-12, is a follow-up course to Introduction to Engineering and meets the needs of students interested in STEM fields. The hands-on course encourages students “to focus on and design solutions to problems, with minimal constraints.” Students liked “building and inventing things with my hands,” “being able to build things that apply to real world projects with my own ideas” and how “outside the box thinking is encouraged.”

CURRICULUM ADOPTIONS
Dr. Teri Poff presented several recommendations on June 6 and the Board approved them on June 20. The materials have already made it through a rigorous review process by the District Instructional Materials Committee (DIMC). For details on the following materials and how they will be used, see Instructional Materials Recommended for Approval.

Special Education Material
Read Well Spelling and Writing Conventions  for Grades 1-4
Mind Up Curriculum for Grades K-8



English Language Arts Material
The Boy on the Wooden Box for Grade 8
The 3 a.m. Epiphany: Uncommon Writing Exercises that Transform Your Fiction for Grade 12. It was noted that some of the prompts “are more adult in nature; teachers’ selection of prompts is advised.”

Source: OSPI Native Education 

The Since Time Immemorial curriculum comes out of a partnership with OSPI, public and private agencies, and several of the 29 federally recognized tribes in Washington State. The OSPI Office of Native Education Logo, designed by Roger Fernandes, of the Lower Elwha Klallam, blends a Coast Salish eagle and a Plateau basket to represent the diversity of tribes in Washington.

Social Studies Material
Social Studies Alive for Grades K-3, 5-6
Washington Adventure/ Washington Our Home for Grade 4
Storypath for Grades K-6
Since Time Immemorial for Grades K-12
Native Americans, Heinemann Paperbacks for Grade 3
Native American Homes for Grade 3
DBQ Project for Grades 5-6

Following Dr. Poff’s presentation, Director Nicholson asked about any violence in The Boy on the Box [the book is a memoir by Leon Leyson, the youngest person on Oskar Schindler’s list]. Dr. Poff replied that the material is age-appropriate. Director Mike Jacobs inquired about TCI, the publisher of the proposed core text Social Studies Alive, to see if they cater to the Boards of Education in certain states. Dr. Poff responded by saying that TCI [Teachers’ Curriculum Institute] is better than any other curriculum she has seen about bringing in perspectives of various groups, something that “we are continually realizing that we need more and more.”



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Highlights from June Shoreline School District Board Meetings: Buildings, Money, and Policies

Monday, July 4, 2016

By Marianne Deal Stephens

In June 2016, the Shoreline School Board dealt with several business and policy items. A separate article will cover recent items pertaining to academics and student activities.

Approval of Facilities Planning Recommendations
On June 20, the Board unanimously approved the four recommendations put forth by the Facilities Planning Committee. (See previous article). As Deputy Superintendent Marla Miller explained, this approval does not approve a final action to voters; it authorizes the District to spend the summer prepping a resolution. Staff will prioritize the four building projects, study costs, and come up with a timeline. In regard to the financing, the District will meet with a financial advisor, go over numbers, and identify a ballot title for a potential February 2017 bond measure.

The four projects:

  1. Rebuild Einstein Middle School
  2. Rebuild Kellogg Middle School
  3. Rebuild Parkwood Elementary School
  4. Build an Early Learning Center that will house the three district-based preschools. 
    1. Head Start Program for students who qualify based on income eligibility. Open to all district students who qualify and currently housed at Meridian Park; 
    2. Early Childhood Education Program for students who qualify for special education services. Open to all District students who qualify and currently housed at Meridian Park. 
    3. Tuition-based preschool at the Shoreline Children’s Center.
Change to Policies on Nondiscrimination
Assistant Superintendent Brian Schultz introduced a policy clarification that was prompted by a parent’s observation. The policy listed “sexual orientation including gender expression or identity” as a protected class that cannot be discriminated against, yet, as the parent pointed out, “gender identity and expression are in fact entirely different and not a part of sexual orientation.”

The District proposed removing the word “including” from the original phrase; this change to student Policy 3210 was proposed on June 6 and adopted on June 20. Also on June 20, it was proposed that the corresponding staff Policy 5010 be updated to reflect that sexual orientation and gender identity are different things. See: Background of Revisions to Policy 3210; Changes to Policy 3210; Background of Revisions to Policy 5010; Draft of Changes to Policy 5010.

Proposed Change in Medication at School Policy
Director of Preschools and Health Services Hillery Clark presented the proposed updates, which the District’s nurses have been working on for nearly a year. The changes will reflect current state policy and will better meet the needs of students and families.

Source: Shoreline School Board

Members of the Board inquired about emergency procedures. Director Clark explained that, in emergencies, if a nurse is available, the nurse is the preferred administrator of the medication, but if the nurse is not available, then there is a need for delegation to a trained staff member. When asked about the purpose of a nasal spray, she explained that it is for seizures and comes with the dosage pre-loaded. In cases of seizure or a severe allergic reaction, there are established response protocols, which include calling 911.

Changes to Policy on Restraint
Shoreline School District Policy 3317: Restraint and Isolation
Director of Student Services Amy Vujovich presented the changes, which will “bring the policy into compliance with state law and reflect our current practices.” Because of the changes, Policy 3311 is obsolete except a paragraph that will be incorporated into 3317. Restraint is only used when there is a threat of serious harm to persons or damage to property. Director Vujoich presented the proposal on June 6, which was then approved by the Board on June 20. See: Background Information; Policy 3317 Revisions; Policy 3311 Rescission.

Final Acceptance of Shorewood and Shorecrest High School Replacements
On June 6, Deputy Superintendent Marla Miller and Shorewood Building Project Manager Jeff Greene appeared before the Board with resolutions to approve the final commissioning of the new high schools. Deputy Superintendent Miller drew attention to the significance of the resolution by looking back to April of 2012 when the “entire crew” of architects and project managers presented the plans to the Board and the Board marked official start to the high school building projects. She noted that “we are indebted to the people who worked so hard” and specifically mentioned taxpayers who voted to support the projects and the two design teams which were made up of high school staff and community members.

The High School Commissioning Reports were initially presented to the Board in a Study Session on October 12, 2015. It was anticipated that the board would be asked to approve the resolutions in November 2015. Following the October 12 study session, Board Director Richard Potter, a retired engineer, reviewed the reports and found several issues of concern. It has taken several months to address those concerns to the satisfaction of the Board.

While approval of the final acceptance was unanimous, Director Mike Jacobs expressed frustration, saying that “it is a distressing way to end this.” What was put forth in October was “not a proper representation” and, without Director Potter’s expertise, the Board would not have caught outstanding problems with the buildings.

2016-2017 Preliminary Budget
On June 20, Deputy Superintendent Marla Miller and Director of Finance and Business Services presented the preliminary budget for all funds except the general fund. 

Source: Shoreline School District

For comments on each fund, see the 2016-17 Preliminary Budget Presentation for ASB, Capital Projects, Debt Service, and Transportation Vehicle Funds.

Deputy Superintendent Miller and Director Spangenberg offered several explanatory notes, including:
  • the ASB fund reflects significant fundraising for big trips for both high schools;
  • the Capital Projects Fund budgets resources (from the insurance proceeds following the fire at Aldercrest several years ago) to demolish Cedarbrook;
  • the Capital Projects Fund will have decreased lease revenue due to the closure of Cedarbrook, North City, and Aldercrest to tenants; 
  • the Debt Service Fund is based on outstanding bonds;
  • the Transportation Service Fund may adjust, based on whether the 7 school buses that have been ordered arrive in this fiscal year or next (fiscal year September 1-August 31).
The budget presentation was informational only; the General Fund preliminary budget will be presented to the Board on July 21, 2016 and the budget hearing and adoption will be on August 29, 2016 at the regular Board meeting. See: 2016-17 Preliminary Budget Presentation; Preliminary Budget Documents.

Contracts and Projects
The Board approved contract renewals, awarded project bids, and extended several agreements in June, including:
Synthetic Turf/ Crumb Rubber Review
In regard to the Ridgecrest Elementary Playfield project, the question has been raised about the safety of turf fields. On June 20, Board Vice President Debi Ehrlichman requested that the Ridgecrest Bid Award item be pulled out for discussion, and Deputy Superintendent Marla Miller addressed the question. The District has looked into this safety issue in the past and continues to monitor the research on synthetic turf and crumb rubber. The Deputy Superintendent referenced a February 2015 Presentation by Shoreline Director of Athletics, School Safety, and Facility Use Don Dalziel.

The District spoke to consultants on the topic this spring. Deputy Superintendent Miller referenced a study presented to the Verdant Health Commission Board Meeting in May of 2015: Risks from Chemicals in Artificial Turf: State of the Science (Power Point presentation) Synthetic Turf Presentation and the Gradient Turf Report. As Ms. Miller stated, the conclusions of the 2015 study, which is regarded as current, state that “neither crumb rubber nor GeoTurf present a risk.” These conclusions are “consistent with multiple regulatory agencies.” Since the current research does not raise new questions or concerns, the District recommended going ahead with the Ridgecrest bid award as presented on the agenda. The Board passed the item unanimously.

Board Member’s Extended Absence
Director Richard Potter will miss six board meetings in the fall due to travel for family matters. He will continue to serve the board by making himself “available electronically during that period as needed and will keep apprised of District activities through contact with the superintendent and reading board packets.”



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Shoreline School District puts forth building recommendations

Wednesday, June 15, 2016


By Marianne Deal Stephens

On Monday, June 6, Shoreline School District announced the latest facility recommendations, which are informational until the School Board votes on them on June 20, 2016.


Source: Shoreline School District

These recommendations were developed by a Facilities Committee that consisted of administrators, teachers, parents, and specialists. Over several weeks this spring, the group examined enrollment trends, data on the condition of all school buildings, instructional needs, and school financing. Recent growth in Shoreline has nearly filled elementary schools to capacity, and, with growth expected to continue, the District must accommodate a larger student population. When taking into account a medium enrollment growth trajectory, the Shoreline School District estimates that it would be 11 classrooms short in 2016-2017 and 30 classrooms short in 2017-2018 if it were to try to implement the State’s K-3 class size reductions.

At the District Study Session on June 6, several members of the Facilities Committee presented background information and the recommendations themselves. Lake Forest Park Parent Silje Sodal prefaced the four recommendations by first describing the group’s goals.

Source: Shoreline School District

Recommendation 1: Rebuild Einstein and Kellogg Middle Schools

The need for rebuilding Einstein and Kellogg Middle Schools comes out of both the condition of the buildings and the proposed shift to a 6-8 middle school model (see previous article). Both schools were rated “fair” in the recent facilities evaluation. Ms. Sodal described that both schools have “significant challenges” with single pane windows and failing roofs. Kellogg is rated lower: nearly every ceiling has stains from leaks, and water backs up through the asphalt due to drainage deficiencies.



Source: Shoreline School District


School Board Director Dick Nicholson asked the principals on the committee about the challenge of converting the grade models. Lake Forest Park Principal Aimee Miner responded in her additional role “as the parent of a sixth grader.” She explained that her son has been at the same school for seven years, and does not get science every day. She believes that the kids are ready: “they are bigger, they are adolescents, and they have served their school.” The District can “be thoughtful about what 6th grade would look like” since it does not have to look like 7th and 8th grade.

Principal Ann Torres viewed the question from a secondary level; she served as an Assistant Principal at Shorewood before moving to Parkwood. Now, 6th grade students are missing the opportunities to take music [as a regular daily class], language, and science. She “very much support[s] a 6/7/8 model” and hopes families will become aware of the benefits. Principal Miner reminded the group that Core 24 is coming (see previous article) and that middle school students will have the opportunity to take some credit bearing classes that will count toward the graduation requirement.

Ms. Sodal closed the middle school portion of the discussion by saying that “doing the building at the same time as the grade shift gives us an opportunity to design the facility.” The District can take “all of the good ideas to create the best facility and make it a positive experience for our 6th graders.”

Recommendation 2: Build an Early Learning Center

The existing Shoreline Children’s Center is rated “poor;” only Cedarbrook, which is “unsatisfactory” and slated for demolition, is lower in the condition ratings of District support facilities. Ms. Sodal related that the committee was surprised to learn how “well-loved” the building has become. The recommendation for an Early Learning Center followed from this poor condition and from the instructional goal to co-locate the three major district-run preschool programs.

Lake Forest Park Principal Aimee Miner explained that the district-run preschool co-location and presumed expansion would allow the District to accommodate more of the demand for district-runpreschool, particularly for underserved populations. The consolidation would help the staff by allowing for collaboration and better professional development, and a facility completely “geared toward little people” would support specialized early childhood education.

Recommendation 3: Rebuild Parkwood Elementary

Parkwood Elementary does not have the lowest condition rating of the elementary and secondary buildings; Syre Elementary does. However, Syre’s “fair” rating is primarily due to problems with the HVAC system and the roof, and projects to replace those elements are either currently underway or already on the building improvement schedule. After those projects are completed, Syre is expected to be rated “good,” according to Facilities Modernization Coordinator Dan Stevens.


Source: Shoreline School District

Parkwood drew the committee’s attention not only because of the low rating, but because of the nature of the problems. Water intrusion leads to electrical problems, which means power outages disrupt school operations. The school has not been updated, and when it was built, (ca. 1960), the State was funding ’20-year’ buildings. The State now funds ’50-year’ buildings. As Deputy Superintendent Marla Miller explained, “modernization” when the external envelope and slab are not sound would end up costing more than a rebuild.

Neither Deputy Superintendent Marla Miller nor Parkwood Principal Ann Torres, a member of the Facilities Committee, expected Parkwood to be in the recommendations, but the group felt strongly that the school needed attention. Rebuilding Parkwood would also allow the District to add more classrooms to a small school, helping to ease the classroom shortage and thereby having broader benefits.

Recommendation 4: February 2017 Bond Proposal to Voters

Paying for the new buildings would require issuing new bonds. Director of Finance and Business Operations Mark Spangenberg led the Facilities Committee in a study of school financing and the District’s current bond situation. The District was able to pay off some bonds early this 2015-2016 school year, and is monitoring remaining payments on still-outstanding bonds from previous authorizations. The District has available debt capacity and would remain within statutory limits should it pass a new bond issue.

Washington State provides matching funds, which amount to approximately 15% of the total that the local voters agree to finance.

Since the plans are only in early stages, there are neither firm total amounts nor firm particular taxpayer impacts available. However, the District anticipates that the share borne by the typical Shoreline/ Lake Forest Park property taxpayer would remain stable. Both School Board Director Mike Jacobs and School Board Vice President Debi Ehrlichman expressed a desire to keep tax levels about the same and to not overburden the community.

Next Steps

If the School Board approves the Facilities Committee recommendations on June 20, the District will work on a proposal over the summer detailing plans for each of the building projects. Deputy Superintendent Miller said, should the Board give the District a go-ahead, “we would come back in the fall with particular amounts” and form design teams to “set vision and direction” for the four buildings. The District has State matching funds (designated for building planning) that can be used now for the early visioning process.

Though no specific timelines were offered, Deputy Superintendent Miller suggested that the four building projects would be staggered rather than simultaneous. The District will come up with a preferred order and timeline should the Board provide approval on June 20 at the 7:00 p.m. Regular School Board Meeting at Shoreline Center.

Shoreline School Board Members seemed to have positive reactions to the proposals in the informal discussion following the Facilities Committee presentation at the June 6 Study Session. Board Vice President Debi Ehrlichman commented that “we are stewards of our public buildings” and “it is normal to have to rebuild and take care of” our facilities. She mentioned that they “did not expect Parkwood, but there is no reason we should not start.” Director Mike Jacobs added that “we shouldn’t wait until it is falling down.”

Members of the Committee
Superintendent Rebecca Miner thanked the members of the Facilities Committee for their “many hours” and “Herculean effort” spent studying material and prioritizing the meetings this spring. Deputy Superintendent Miller valued the various lenses the committee brought to the work and their overlapping roles in the community, as staff, parents, and residents.



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Summary of May 23, 2016 Shoreline School Board Meeting

Friday, June 10, 2016

Marilyn Leverson (center) with school board and Superintendent Miner

By Marianne Deal Stephens

Prior to the meeting, the District hosted a reception honoring 2016 Shoreline Schools Teacher of the Year Marilyn Leverson.

Superintendent Rebecca Miner called Ms. Leverson a “champion for all children in her school” and Kellogg Principal Lisa Gonzales described how watching her teach is like going to “Math Wonderland.” Many parents, students, and colleagues spoke about Ms. Leverson’s impact as a teacher, colleague, and parent. When Ms. Leverson finally took a turn at the podium, she graciously described how she learns from all of her colleagues and students, and said that “I am here because of all of you.” 

For more, see the District News Release announcing the award and a video of 2016 Shoreline Schools Teacher of the Year Reception.

When the Board Meeting convened, Director Wilson noted that Directors Dick Nicholson and Dick Potter were both away on family matters.

The night’s unanimously approved Consent Agenda included:
  • Resolution Declaring Teacher of the Year and Teacher Appreciation Week;
  • Resolution Declaring Arts Education Month;
  • Adoption of DIMC Curriculum Recommendations; 
  • Acceptance of $9,905.46 Gift from Shorecrest Boosters for a lighting system; 
  • Approval of Extended Field Trips, including qualifying Shorewood tennis players to the State Tournament in Kennewick in May; Shorewood football players to camp in August; Lake Forest Park 6th graders to Camp Orkila for Outdoor Education in September. 
New Administrators Introduced
Assistant Superintendent Brian Schultz introduced three educators newly appointed to administrative positions.
  • Lisa Gonzales, currently Principal at Kellogg Middle School, will begin as Shorecrest High School Principal at the end of this school year. Assistant Superintendent Schultz commented on Ms. Gonzales’ work on “dignity, humanity, and equity,” saying that the District is “thrilled to have her return to Shorecrest.” (See Shorecrest Principal Selected, District News release.)
  • Heather Hiatt will succeed Lisa Gonzales as Kellogg Middle School Principal. Ms. Hiatt currently serves as Assistant Principal at Shorecrest; Assistant Superintendent Schultz quipped that Ms. Hiatt and Ms. Gonzales will be changing places. (See Kellogg Middle School Principal Selected, District News Release.)
  • Maria Stevens will become the new Director of Teaching and Learning following the retirement of Dr. Terry Poff at the end of the current school year. Ms. Stevens has served in several roles over the course of her career, most recently as a principal for Evergreen Public Schools in Vancouver. Mr. Schultz thanked the SEA for their partnership in the hiring process; Shoreline teachers submitted the qualities and attributes they sought for this role. (See Shoreline Schools selects new Director of Teaching and Learning.)

Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports Update
The District is in the process of implementing Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) in all schools, though different levels and schools vary in the stage of implementation. PBIS explicitly teaches students the expectations of school culture. The presentation team included: Director of Student Services Amy Vujovich; Directory of Secondary Student Services Scott Irwin; Shorewood Assistant Principal Nancy Elder; Briarcrest Elementary Principal Jonathan Nessan; and Briarcrest Elementary Counselor Kelly Akemann. 

Source: Shoreline Schools

Director of Student Services Amy Vujovich explained that “while some children arrive at school able to pick up the behavioral skills necessary, not all do.” PBIS ensures that all students “receive the same core content” for behavior and provides “common language by staff as students go from the classroom to the playground to the lunchroom.” As a responsive system, PBIS also offers intensive support for students who need it, and should “level the playing field.”

Director of Secondary Student Services Scott Irwin addressed the question “Why PBIS in Shoreline?” Director Irwin described how several District priorities come together in PBIS, including social-emotional support, classroom management, equity, and teacher practice and evaluation. He described how the PBIS work “ties in directly” with Dr. Tanisha Brandon-Felder’s work on equity. Through both PBIS and the AVID program, staff teach the sometimes hidden expectations of school culture.

Briarcrest Principal Jonathan Nessan gave an example of PBIS implementation at his school. A sixth grade teacher has made videos of “the right thing at the right time.” Mr. Nessan noted the power in the videos, saying that viewing them “is enough for most kids” to learn the appropriate behavior. Briarcrest is working on different kinds of interventions; the staff has had success stories where they have figured out “how to help a student not be disruptive.”

Shorewood Assistant Principal Nancy Elder commented that, while we have “amazing schools,” we have to “explicitly teach what it means to be a student.” She explained how PBIS can help educators address achievement gaps. Ms. Elder also outlined the PBIS implementation process. The elementary schools are much further along than the high schools, though all buildings are committed and have processes in place.

Director Mike Jacobs inquired about the differences between schools. Ms. Elder explained that, while there will be collaboration between schools, and a general set of common expectations, there may be some differences based strictly on the building. Director Vujovich clarified that “it is important that every building puts their stamp on it.”

Board Vice President Debi Ehrlichman asked whether parents are hearing the PBIS vocabulary. Director Vujovich explained that each school will figure out how to get the word out, and Director Irwin added that “you know it is working when you hear from parents that kids are teaching them.”

For more on PBIS, see Shoreline Schools PBIS Implementation Update.

March and April Financial Update
Director of Finance and Business Services Mark Spangenberg presented the latest financials. On the 2015-16 General Fund Actuals, he pointed out that April has the highest total fund balance of the year, over $28 million. Since May and June have the lowest apportionments of the year, the high April End Fund Balance will not continue through the coming months. He offered a few brief notes on changes in numbers, including: a decrease in transportation revenues; a decrease of State general revenue due to lower enrollment; an increase in classified pay; increases due to midpoint salary adjustments; increases in benefit expenditures due to the addition of academic coaches and elementary counselors.

In the May Enrollment Report, Director Spangenberg noted that the District has a total student head count of 9295, which is 189 more than last year but 126 below budget. The last time we were at this level was in 2007-2008.

Board Vice President Debi Ehrlichman asked if he has a number of incoming kindergarteners. Mr. Spangenberg said that the District is running 50-60 above this year.

Comments from the Community
President of Shoreline STEM Terry Stevens-Ayers offered a report on the recent STEM festival at Shoreline Community College. She mentioned that the organizers were “impressed with the energy and enthusiasm of students” and that they are grateful for the support of their sponsors and the support of Superintendent Miner and the School Board.

Action Item: Policy 3115, Homeless Students
The update to Policy 3115 was passed unanimously.

Board Reports and Communications
Shorecrest Student Representative Rachel Semon reported that the Shorecrest musical was excellent, and that the seniors were looking forward to the Shorecrest Senior Prom, scheduled for June 4 at the Seattle Art Museum. [The Shorewood Senior Prom was scheduled for the same evening, at the Future of Flight Aviation Center in Everett.]

Director Mike Jacobs said briefly that “there was a lot of baseball and a lot of tears” since the teams did not advance postseason. [However, several Shorewood players were named to the Herald’s 3A 2016 All Wesco Baseball Team.

Board Vice President Debi Ehrlichman attended the “exceptional” last Shorewood Culinary Arts Dinner of the year, as well as the recent STEM Festival where she loved talking with the kids. She also appreciated the opportunity to sit in on Dr. Brandon-Felder’s equity class.

At the last PTA/ Superintendent Coffee, Director of Teacher Professional Practice and Evaluation Anzara Miller and Assistant Superintendent Brian Schultz presented the same information that the Board heard in a recent Study Session (See previous article). Ms. Ehrlichman said that the parents “received the information very well.”

Ms. Ehrlichman congratulated Shorewood Principal Bill Dunbar on his recent award [see Shorewood Principal Presented with UW Mentor Award (see previous article) and Shorecrest students who earned honors in biomedical research [see Shorecrest Students Earn Honors at Student Bio Expo.]

Board President David Wilson ended the public meeting and the Board adjourned to Executive Session to review the performance of a public employee.



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Shoreline Schools to announce facilities recommendations Monday

Sunday, June 5, 2016

 By Marianne Deal Stephens

At the regularly scheduled Shoreline School Board Meeting on Monday, June 6, 2016, the School District will present recommendations for major construction projects.

In the past year, the District has studied several aspects of Shoreline Schools, including: current enrollment; building capacities; condition of facilities; projections for enrollment growth; instructional needs of Early Learning, Highly Capable, and Middle School programs.

On May 9, the Instructional Program Planning Committee recommended that the District (see previous article):

  1. Consolidate all Early Learning programs in one location;
  2. Leave the Highly Capable Program as is;
  3. Implement a 6/7/8 Middle School model. 
in response to the instructional recommendations, the District will announce plans for replacement or modernization of some school buildings. Monday’s presentation will be informational; the recommendations are slated to come before the Board on Monday, June 20 for approval. If the District goes ahead with these plans, there will be a February 2017 special election to issue bonds to finance the construction projects.

The June 6 agenda will have a few additional items:
  • Curricular recommendations for Special Education, English Language Arts, and Social Studies
  • Updates to Policies 3317 and Policy 3210
  • Commissioning of Shorecrest and Shorewood High School Replacement Projects
  • Approval of new courses for grades 8, 10-12 

View the full agenda on the School Board Agendas and Minutes page. Monday’s meeting is scheduled for 7:00pm at the Shoreline Center, 18560 1st Avenue NE, Shoreline



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Shoreline School Board Report: Washington Achievement Index explained

Saturday, June 4, 2016

By Marianne Deal Stephens

On May 9, 2016, Shoreline Director of Assessment and Student Learning Dr. Michael Power presented the data behind the Washington Achievement Index Awards presented by Washington State. (See April 2016 District Press Release).

Several Shoreline Schools won awards, a few in multiple categories: Briarcrest Elementary, Brookside Elementary, Cascade K-8, Echo Lake Elementary, Melvin G. Syre Elementary, Meridian Park Elementary, and Parkwood Elementary.
Source: Shoreline School District 
 
Dr. Power offered a brief overview of the origin of the Washington Achievement Index. As state assessments have changed, the ability to measure students over time has been lost. The State Board of Education and the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction developed the Achievement Index to “make sure that schools are making progress.” The index “is a snapshot of a school’s performance based on statewide assessments” comparing “how a school performs in reading, writing, math, science, and graduation rates.” The State not only tracks overall performance; by closely tracking every student, the State aims to help districts identify and close achievement gaps and to show how well low income and non-low income students perform.

When explaining how factors are weighted in the index, Dr. Power noted that the data behind the index is “massive” and “it is difficult to identify what made the difference at a certain school.” The index weights growth (60%) over proficiency (40%). Schools must have 95% participation rate in state assessments; when they do not, absent students receive zeroes, which negatively affect average scores.

[Learn more about the indicators and categories of the Achievement Index on pages 2-8 of Dr. Power’s Report.]

The seven award-winning Shoreline Schools are high performers based on three years of academic information as measured by the index. The State notes that “Award recipients are schools that have made measurable progress helping students prepare for college, career, and life.”

One such school is Briarcrest Elementary, recognized for “High Progress.”

Source: Shoreline School District 

As Dr. Power has indicated on the bar graph, the highest yellow bar marked 9.3 is an average of data over the last three years. The red achievement index bars are roughly a weighted average of proficiency (purple bars) and growth (yellow bars). Other award winning schools show similar patterns of upticks in proficiency and/ or growth and the overall index.

Dr. Power displayed graphs of all Shoreline schools, whether or not they met the State criteria for Achievement Index awards in 2016. While some schools’ bar graphs show declines, Dr. Power cautioned against reading too much into those, saying that “the data are so complex that it is difficult to see what it [the factor that affected the measurement] was.”

Source: Shoreline School District 
However, he does have an explanation for the declines of the middle and high schools’ performance: “students who do not participate [in testing] receive a zero, so that brings the averages down…proficiency is a downward trend due to participation.”

The Shorecrest Proficiency indicator dropped from 8.5 to 4.9, while the graduation indicator increased. Our students are not less able; their non participation in state assessments skews the measurement.

Board Vice President Debi Ehrlichman mentioned that she is “pleased to see the spike in graduation” and acknowledged that, with the combination of factors, there is not one particular weighting factor to “hang your hat on.”

For full Shoreline results by school, see pages 10-24 of Dr. Power’s Washington Achievement Index Report.
 
For award criteria and a full list of state winners, see Washington Achievement Award.



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Shoreline School Board releases updated meeting schedule

Monday, May 23, 2016


By Marianne Deal Stephens

On May 9, 2016, the Shoreline School Board passed revised meeting guidelines (see Policy 1440) and released the schedule of upcoming meetings for summer 2016 and the 2016-2017 school year. Meeting schedules and minutes can always be found on the School Board page of their webpage.

Shoreline School Board July 2016-June 2017 Meeting Schedule

July 21 Regular Meeting, 5:00 p.m.
August 15 Regular (Business Only) Meeting, 5:00 p.m.
August 29 Regular Meeting, 7:00 p.m.

September 12 Regular Meeting 7:00 p.m.
September 26 Regular Meeting, 7:00 p.m.
October 10  Joint Meeting w/City of Shoreline, 5:30 pm. (tentative)
  October 10  Regular Meeting, 7:00 p.m.
October 24  Regular Meeting, 7:00 p.m.
November 14 Regular Meeting, 7:00 p.m.
December 5 Regular Meeting, 7:00 p.m.
December 19 Regular (Business Only) Meeting, 5:00 p.m.
January 23  Regular Meeting, 7:00 p.m.
February 13 Regular Meeting, 7:00 p.m.
March 6 Regular Meeting, 7:00 p.m.
March 20 Regular Meeting, 7:00 p.m. 
April 10 Regular Meeting, 7:00 p.m.
May 8 Regular Meeting, 7:00 p.m.
May 22 Regular Meeting, 7:00 p.m.
June 5 Regular Meeting, 7:00 p.m.
June 19 Regular Meeting, 7:00 p.m.


Regular School Board Meetings are held at least monthly in the Board Room, near the west entrance of the Shoreline Center, 18560 1st Avenue NE, Shoreline, WA 98155. Regular meetings include presentations, action items, and an opportunity for comments from the community. Meetings vary in length according to the items on the agenda.

During the community comments interval at regular meetings, Shoreline School District parents, students, employees, or Shoreline/ Lake Forest Park residents may address the Board. Comments are limited to two minutes and speakers are asked to state their names and their relationship to the district, as well as follow some additional guidelines as outlined in Policy 1441. The Board especially enjoys hearing from Shoreline students.

Regular (Business Only) Meetings are held occasionally so that the Board can vote on a consent agenda or action item. These meetings are brief and do not have reports or presentations.

Study Sessions, which do not include official votes or action, are held as needed to inform the Board about projects or ongoing issues. Study Sessions are held before regular meetings.

Executive Sessions, if needed, generally follow regular meetings. According to policy and laws, “all meetings shall be open to the public with the exception of executive sessions authorized by law. Any action will be taken at an open meeting.” (Policy 1440)

The community is welcome to attend Shoreline School Board meetings to see what they are like and to be better informed about the workings of the District.



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Shoreline School Board Meeting Summary May 9, 2016: Legislature Fails to Act, Board Approves Plan for WaKIDS Kindergarten Family Connection

Tuesday, May 17, 2016

By Marianne Deal Stephens

Highlights of the Consent Agenda


Director Dick Nicholson requested that item 4d, the Aldercrest Campus Modernization Project, be pulled out for discussion. Director Nicholson asked if, considering the “tight window of construction since the building needs to be occupied [in the fall of 2016], is there a contingency plan?” Deputy Superintendent outlined several additional measures the District has taken and said that “we are confident that it can be done.”

All Consent Agenda items were approved unanimously. Board President David Wilson thanked Ridgecrest PTA, saying that “your work really counts.”

Washington Achievement Index Report

A separate report will discuss the Washington Achievement Index and the seven Shoreline Schools that received awards based on this index. (See the recent District Press Release 4.18.2016).

DIMC Recommendations

Dr. Teri Poff, Director of Teaching and Learning, presented the first reading of the latest recommendations from the District Instructional Materials Committee.
  1. Intervention Material: Step Up to Writing for grades 6-12.
  2. Special Education Material: Unique Learning System for preschool through transition.
  3. Music Material: Spotlight on Music for preschool through 6.
An outline of the Unit Topics for the Unique Learning System curriculum for Special Education.
Source: Unique Learning System/ Shoreline School District

For details on the materials and how they will be used, see the May 9 2016 DIMC Packet. Director Richard Potter inquired about Orff Methodologies mentioned in the review of the music materials. Both Dr. Teri Poff and Board Vice President Debi Ehrlichman answered, explaining that the Orff Method, based on the teaching of composer Carl Orff, includes learning instruments in particular grade levels.

Revisions to Policy 3115, Homeless Students

Director of Student Services Amy Vujovich introduced minor revisions to Policy 3115, Homeless Students: Enrollment Rights and Services. The revisions will “bring the policy into compliance with state law.”

Board Discussion: 2016 Legislative Summary

Director Richard Potter offered a summary of education-related matters in the State Legislature. The State has made no progress on McCleary [the decision that the State is not adequately funding education]. Director Potter described Senate Bill 6195 as the “kick the can” plan. He presented the ways in which Shoreline will be affected by recent legislation: 

Source: Director Richard Potter, Shoreline School District 

Director Potter explained that the State also “did not do anything” about the “Levy Cliff.” Since Shoreline could lose $5 million in funding, we “will have to run two sets of budgets” for 2017-2018. He expressed concern because of the magnitude of the impacts of such a gap, and because it is “a lot of work for the staff” to plan for two financial scenarios. [For a fine explanation of the Levy Cliff, see ‘Levy cliff’ looms over Legislature’s education funding debate from the Tacoma News Tribune.]

Director Potter did not mince words. He said that “it is hard to encourage teachers” when the legislature isn’t doing much and called this year a “shameful performance by the legislature.” 


In this photo from the March 14, 2016 School Board Meeting, Board Vice President Debi Ehrlichman examines one of the mysterious McCleary "Kick the Can” soup cans that appeared in Board Members’ mailboxes.

Comments from the Community


Richard Valentine claimed that the District forces people to “work off the clock,” which is against the law. He also mentioned that, “on a lighter note,” the Shorecrest Orchestra “won their meet in Wilsonville, Oregon.” [He drove the bus for the trip to the Music in the Parks event.]

SEA President David Guthrie commended Dr. Michael Power on the latest test information, saying that it is difficult to “explain something that cannot be explained”. He pointed out WA Kids [an Action Item on the night’s agenda] is “another unfunded mandate given to us by folks that did not ask actual educators what needed to be done.” He also pointed out that Representative Ruth Kagi, who is committed to early childhood, made some decisions that the SEA does not agree with, including supporting Charter Schools.

Emily Thone, a senior at Shorewood High School, appeared with fellow students Sara Tieu and Anthony Tran. Ms. Thone requested toilet seat covers in the student bathrooms; they are now only in the staff bathrooms. The covers would offer “a sense of hygienic assurance.”

Action Item: Approval of WA KIDS Recommendation for 2016-2017


State funding for Full Day Kindergarten will expand to all Shoreline Schools for 2016-2017. As part of the funding package, the schools will administer the Washington Kindergarten Inventory of Developing Skills (WaKIDS). The assessment has three parts: Family Connection comprised of individual teacher-family meetings to build relationships; Whole-Child Assessment with detailed observations of students doing “actual work in the classroom”; and Early Learning Collaboration pertaining to connections between schools and local programs like the YMCA.

Director of Assessment and Student Learning Michael Power and Lake Forest Park Elementary Principal Aimee Miner presented a recommendation that the District establish three full release days so that the kindergarten teachers can hold conferences for the Family Connection portion of the WaKIDS assessment. The release days are for kindergarten students only, and are tentatively scheduled for September 16, September 30, and October 7, all in Fall 2016. The regular October Parent-Teacher Conferences would not be affected. Principal Miner explained that a group of teachers and principals considered several options, including a later school year start for kindergarten only, and chose this full-day model so that kindergarten students could fully participate in the “critical…community-building” that takes place during the first week of school.

Board Vice President Debi Ehrlichman expressed concerns about child care difficulties for families, and hoped that family advocates would work with families to assist them in finding care for those occasional days. She also inquired whether there would be family information sheets available in multiple languages and translators for the family conferences. Principal Miner replied affirmatively to both questions. Superintendent Rebecca Miner pointed out that the recommendation is to put the dates on the draft calendar, and the final ratification of the calendar would take place later. The Board unanimously approved the WaKIDS recommendation.

Action Item: IPPC Recommendations

Assistant Superintendent Brian Schultz and Director of Teacher Professional Practice and Evaluation Anzara Miller brought the Instructional Program Planning Committee’s recommendations before the Board. [See previously published article.] Following an in-depth look at the instructional needs of students, the IPPC recommends that:
  • Early Learning Programs (tuition-based, Head Start, and Early Childhood Education) be co-located on a single site.
  • Highly Capable configuration remain as is, with a committee formed to explore research and best practices for the program.
  • A 6/7/8 middle school program best meets the instructional and social-emotional needs of our students. 
See the full text and background information of the IPPC Recommendations.

Having heard the research behind the IPPC recommendations at the immediately preceding Study Session, the Board approved the recommendation with a slight wording change from the original:

“It is the recommendation of the Superintendent that the Board grant approval to use the recommendations of the Instructional Program Planning Committee to inform the recommendations of the Facilities Planning Committee.” [The last instance of “recommendations” had previously read “decisions.”] The Board’s action passed the instructional recommendations on to the Facilities Planning Committee.

Action Item: Adoption of Revisions to Policy 4100, Regarding Board of Directors Meetings

The Board approved the revised guidelines which comply with the Open Public Meetings Act and allow for flexibility. A new meeting schedule will be published in a separate article. The community can find the School Board Meeting Schedule online.

Action Item: Adoption of Resolution 2016-5, Certificated Employee Reduction Authorization

Director of Human Resources Tam Osborne introduced the item, which is “an extra step of caution” in the event a reduction in staffing is necessary. Deputy Superintendent Marla Miller reinforced Director Osborne’s explanation by explaining that the District would have to notify affected employees by May 15, and “there would not be any reduction due to budget or staffing ratios.” Director Osborne elaborated, saying that reductions could be “at the secondary level by small student enrollment in specialized classes.”

The Board approved the resolution and added wording so that that any reduction not exceed 2.0 FTE. See Background Information; full text of Resolution No. 2016-5; and the pertinent contract section.

Board Reports and Communications

Shorecrest Student Representative Rachel Semon reminded everyone about the Shorecrest musical [Thoroughly Modern Millie] [See review] and pointed out the four Shorecrest students in the audience who are running for the student representative position for 2016-2017.

Director Dick Nicholson attended the recent Astronomy Night at Shorecrest and a KCDA meeting.

Director Mike Jacobs attended the recent Shoreline PTA Council Recognition Night [and was the Outstanding Service honoree], and conveyed that “lots of people are doing great things for the District.” He quipped that the baseball playoffs were in “full swing.”

Director Dick Potter attended the recent Astronomy Night and the CTE presentation at Shorewood, and he pointed out the appearance of Shorewood graduate Blake Snell at Yankee Stadium [see previous story] in his major league debut. Director Jacobs added that he had heard that Snell may be called up [to the majors — the appearance at Yankee Stadium was for that game only] when Tampa is in Seattle.

Director Potter congratulated the schools who received Washington Achievement Awards and pointed out that the two Shoreline high schools are ranked on US News’ Best High Schools list .

Board Vice President Debi Ehrlichman related the experience of going to a Senior Center event where the Power of One Senior Volunteer Program was highlighted. She also attended an Aldercrest community meeting about the District resuming occupancy of the Aldercrest building, and relayed that the community is “thrilled that we are taking over the building.”

VP Ehrlichman also attended a recent PSESD Equity Training and, along with Superintendent Rebecca Miner, went to a UW College of Education “What is Great Teaching?” luncheon. She congratulated the Shorewood and Shorecrest DECA students who participated in the International Career Development Conference in late April.

Board President David Wilson described the PSESD Equity Conference as “very special” and noted that the Shoreline contingent occupied two full tables. [See Achieving Educational Racial Equity.] He echoed VP Ehrlichman’s praise for the Power of One program, which is celebrating its 20th year, saying that this program “represents one of our greatest resources.”



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