The
ALLENSTOWN SCHOOL BOARD
MINUTES OF MEETING
PRESENT: Tom
Irzyk, Jason Carrier, Evelyn Guilbeault, Karen LaPlume, Louise L’Heureux, Betsey
Cox-Buteau, Terri Kenny, Dennis Carmichael, Brianna Carmichael, Bridget Sargent,
Tom Haley.
1. Call to Order
The meeting was called to order at
2. Minutes of Previous Meeting
A
motion to approve the business meeting minutes for
ALL IN FAVOR
THE MOTION PASSED
3. Immediate Business
A. Citizens’ Comments
None
B. Dress Code Interpretation
Dennis Carmichael, Brianna Carmichael and Bridget Sargent were present to discuss a dress code issue. Their question was whether it is permitted for a student to wear a tee shirt with the term Abortion Kills Kids and the picture of the head of a fetus on the front. Tom Irzyk discussed a concern of the school board that, in the absence of a health program at A.R.D. where such topics might be appropriately focused and discussed the tee shirt may be inappropriate. Jason Carrier questioned Brianna regarding her understandings of other students’ feelings, comfort and knowledge of such matters. Mr. Carmichael responded that this is a topic appropriate to middle school students and that pro and anti-abortion messages are all around these students. Tom Irzyk expressed concern that the message could anger other students and threaten Brianna’s safety and that of others in the building. Mr. Carmichael reiterated that the issue is really a free speech matter, it is not the message that is at issue. There are many messages in school which can be supported, opposed or ignored. Louise L’Heureux indicated that she continues to feel that the message is inappropriate for many middle school students. Tom Irzyk reiterated that, while he does not consider the shirt or message offensive, he feels it is too heated a topic to involve students at the grade 5-8 level. Karen LaPlume reiterated that the 9 and 10 year olds in grade 5 should not have their first exposure to the issue be a tee shirt worn by a student. Mr. Carmichael said that the grade 5 and 6 students are largely separated from the grade 7 and 8 students. Louise L’Heureux asked if the message is so important that it should expose children that are not otherwise aware. It is not the issue; it is a question of whether this school is the proper place for such a message. Jason Carrier suggested that it would be more productive to have a health program where issues such as abortion could be introduced in a measured and age-appropriate manner. Tom Irzyk thanked Mr. Carmichael for the information he shared and for the very appropriate manner in which he approached this concern with the board.
The board further discussed its dress code and how the current issue pertains to it. The board concluded that it will continue the matter without further board action at this time.
4. Old/Unfinished Business
B. Technology Requirements
Mary Rubega was present to review the need for 2 switches and associated cards to complete the installation of the new server. The question is whether to purchase new or refurbished equipment. Insurance would cover either in case of loss. Tom Irzyk questioned whether it is wise to purchase discontinued hardware. New would cost $8,400, refurbished about $3,500. This matter was further discussed.
A motion was made by Evelyn Guilbeault, seconded by Jason Carrier, to purchase refurbished parts at an estimate of $3,500.
ALL IN FAVOR
THE MOTION PASSED
3. Immediate
Business (Cont.)
C. Principals’ Reports
Terri
Kenny reported current enrollment at 247.
The new parking lot and drop off areas are working very well. The year’s theme is pursuit of
excellence. The new furniture has
arrived and the second floor is now complete.
Teacher training in NWEA has occurred.
Betsey
Cox-Buteau noted the first ARD dance is scheduled for Friday, September 9. A field trip to Adventure-Lore is planned as is a
4. Old/Unfinished Business (Cont.)
A. School Board Goals
A motion was made by Karen LaPlume, seconded by Louise L’Heureux, to approve the goals for 2005/06.
ALL IN FAVOR
THE MOTION PASSED
C. Budget Development
The board discussed the budget development process and schedule, with the deliberative session scheduled for February 9. Jason Carrier will share the schedule with the budget committee. The process of introducing new initiatives was reviewed.
5. New Business
A. Policy Review
· The board reviewed sample Animals in School Policies and the need for such a policy. The current handbook regulations were reviewed. Terri Kenny will do a survey of staff regarding this matter and report to the board in October.
· The Daily Physical Activity Policy was discussed. A motion was made by Jason Carrier, seconded by Karen LaPlume, to approve the policy as written.
ALL IN FAVOR
THE MOTION PASSED
6. Other
Business
A. Agenda Preparation
Budget development, Space Needs Committee, the animal survey, and a report from Scott Johnson regarding the Claremont Coalition will be part of the next agenda.
B. Tom Irzyk discussed the need to begin the Building Committee meeting schedule. The board gave Tom Irzyk permission to schedule and begin the process. A clear timeline and scope of responsibility is necessary. Karen LaPlume will also attend.
7. Adjournment
At
ALL IN FAVOR
THE MOTION PASSED
The next Allenstown
Board meeting is scheduled for
8. Informational Items
None