PEMBROKE SCHOOL BOARD
THREE
PRESENT: Clint Hanson, Gerry Fleury, Ry Weisiger, Tom Serafin, Michael Reardon, Susanne Whitbeck, Mona Kraus, Deb Bulkley, Michael Blakeslee, Jen Blackman, Sarah Grasso, Sandy Valine (recording secretary), Rick Mitchell,
1. CALL TO ORDER
Chair Clint Hanson called the meeting to order at
2. MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING
A motion to approve the minutes, as amended, was made by Mr. Weisiger and seconded by Mr. Mitchell.
Changes were noted as follows:
ALL IN FAVOR
THE MOTION CARRIED
3. IMMEDIATE BUSINESS
A. CITIZENS’ COMMENTS None at this time
B. PROGRAM PRESENTATION Music
Ms. Bulkley introduced the Music Department staff. All 3 teachers were present. The board requested some follow-up information from last year’s presentation, and an update regarding the training of musicians and building/rebuilding the district’s music program.
Ms. Grasso (Village/Hill) presented an outline of the music program report.
Mr. Blakeslee (PA) discussed the follow up from last year’s presentation and music program highlights. Last year there was some shifting of teaching responsibilities and personnel between TRS and PA. They hoped that there would be a significant change in the numbers of students involved in the music program at PA if the students at TRS were more familiar with Mr. Blakeslee. This did not seem to transfer to the extent that they expected. As a result, the staff returned to teaching full time at their original schools.
Mr. Blakeslee is teaching full time at PA and Ms. Blackman is full time at TRS.
They continue to have collaborative teaching continuing between TRS and PA. Mr. Blakeslee comes down couple times a month to work with the kids in the music program.
At PA, Band numbers appear to be steady for the spring semester. He anticipates 20-25 students to be involved in the band. Chorus numbers are also steady.
Ms. Blackman stated that all students are required to take music courses at TRS. The 7th and 8th graders have more electives than 5th and 6th graders. Performance based courses have been popular and enjoyed by the students. The Advanced Musical Theater class is very popular. There are 40 enrolled students in recorders. The choral class in 8th grade is also very popular. Other types of Performance classes are very popular.
She has seen minimal attrition in the band/chorus numbers. She is actually seeing some gains in the chorus numbers. The music program is a successful program. The Panther Club band is very strong!
Ms. Grasso stated that at Hill/Village all students required to take music each week. She sees the kindergarteners for 30 minutes, and first through fourth graders for 45 minutes. This is a general music curriculum which teaches many foundation music skills. The kids at Hill/Village are very excited about music.
Ms. Blackman stated that the students are coming to TRS definitely much more prepared for advanced music experiences at TRS. This is based on the continuation of the music program at the elementary level. Much more progress is being seen in the students’ general music knowledge than has been seen in a number of years.
Mr. Hanson asked if there is historical data to demonstrate
the growth of the program.
Ms. Blackman suggested that they could look at old programs and class lists to
determine some of the numbers of participants.
She felt that they could prove the fact that the program is growing.
Mr. Fleury asked about the registered vs. non registered students for band.
Mr. Blakeslee stated that sometimes there are scheduling conflicts and students can not participate in the “band” course. They have tried to make arrangements for students to be able to work on pieces and get additional training in music. Sometimes students have wanted to schedule music classes but have not been able to accommodate it in their schedule. Some students have been able to arrange an independent study in order to get additional credits. Often these studies require after school commitments.
Mr. Fleury requested the number of presentations and/or concerts at the various schools. He also asked about the level of parent attendance at concerts.
Ms. Blackman stated that she usually holds 3 concerts per year. Those concerts typically follow this schedule: fall/spring/June. They perform at TRS graduation as another opportunity. The December concert was not packed, but it was very well attended. She stated that it was probably better attended than in previous years.
Mr. Fleury asked about the type of feedback she was receiving. Were there more kudos or criticisms?
Ms. Blackman stated that they have received many very positive comments. Parents have stated that the students are enjoying themselves, having a good time, working hard. The comments have been very encouraging and the kids are having a lot of fun learning.
Mr. Fleury followed up about the graduation program and the combined efforts of the Drama club and band.
Mr. Blakeslee has typically held 2 concerts. Once a semester, there is often a student recital which includes those students who perhaps study or work on their musical talents outside of the band/chorus. This allows for an additional showcase of music students who are working outside of the school music program.
Mr. Fleury figured that approximately 12% of student body is represented. How does that compare to other schools of similar size? He felt that 12% was not a high percentage rate. What would be the optimal number?
Mr. Blakeslee shared that his feeling was “the more the merrier.” His understanding is that in very successful music programs approximately 30% of the population is involved. He agreed that the number is lower than they would like to see. Hopefully it will continue to climb. He reminded the board that the number of participants was very low just a few years ago.
Ms. Blackman believed that in a well established program the number is closer to 20-30%.
Mr. Reardon stated that many of these other schools also have other components such as orchestra, jazz ensemble, etc.
Mr. Serafin asked about a “special” chorus that had occurred in the past.
Mr. Blakeslee explained that there had also been another person who volunteered to help out with special programs. This individual’s personal schedule has not worked out so far this year, but he seems to be interested in staying involved with the district program.
Mr. Serafin wondered about how we reach out to those
students who are participating outside the school program. He has attended the “
Mr. Blakeslee reported that they have additional courses available when they can be included in the schedule. A parent has been working with several groups to develop additional musical training using various drums and basses.
Ms. Grasso reported that at elementary level, the kids can share their musical talents in a number of ways. Some fourth graders have taken lessons outside school and put on a “talent” show for their peers. Parents have contacted her about their child’s readiness and preparation for “outside” music lessons. She certainly has encouraged families to pursue that if the student shows an interest. Many of the students frequently share their progress with their classmates during their music class.
Ms. Blackman stated that she has included some of the more unconventional instruments in the band. They are planning for a school wide talent show in late March. She stated that there are an increasing number of opportunities for different performance options.
Mr. Serafin stated that the Village School Talent Show should become a mandatory meeting for the board. Mr. Fleury suggested that the School Board also perform at the Talent Show.
There was a discussion about the wish for risers at the elementary school.
Mr. Hanson suggested that the music dept. bring it up during the budget process for another year, as it was too late for the upcoming year.
Mrs. Whitbeck suggested that they could also contact PALS
for assistance with the funding.
Mr. Haley stated that “nothing significant has changed” in
other districts regarding the music program.
Allenstown doesn’t have an “upper music program” at this time. Epsom has a long running music program, but a
fledgling band.
Mr. Reardon stated that getting kids from sending schools to PA was still an issue. There is not a bus available to do that on a daily basis. Mr. Blakeslee will be visiting the sending schools to develop some additional connections and interest in the music program options available at PA. A summer program is being planned in order to have students participate in the various music program options.
Mr. Blakeslee stated that at this time no formal process is in place. He has been working with Epsom to develop something. It was mentioned that there is not a lot of strength to the current feeder programs, but they are committed to working on strengthening the band program.
Ms. Grasso shared that a musical was open to all K-4 students
last year. Due to the shear numbers of interested students, they will be limiting
participation to
Mr. Serafin stated that the musical theater presentations at each school have been incredible! They have been very impressive.
Mr. Hanson thanked the music teachers for their presentation and hoped that they would continue the good work being done at each school.
C. CONSENT AGENDA
A motion to approve the acceptance of a gift of computer equipment was made by Mr. Weisiger and seconded by Mr. Mitchell.
ALL IN FAVOR
THE MOTION CARRIED
D. APPROVAL OF WARRANT
The last draft of the warrant articles was presented to the board. This will be the final school board meeting prior to the Public Hearing
The MBC’s recommendations are to be made following the
Public Hearing on
A motion to move the warrant forward as presented was made by Mr. Mitchell and seconded by Mr. Serafin.
ALL IN FAVOR
THE MOTION CARRIED
4. OLD/UNFINISHED BUSINESS
A. PUBLIC HEARING PLANNING
Mr. Haley included in the board packet several of the
preparation documents for review.
Draft of the budget summary was presented for feedback.
Mr. Haley stated that Jim Lucy (from Honeywell) is willing to come to the Public Hearing and make an annotated presentation. He estimated that the presentation would be approximately 3-5 minutes. He would also be willing to answer questions about the proposal.
Mr. Hanson suggested that the board consider making the offer to the MBC as it is their hearing to run.
Mr. Fleury stated that the MBC may not be anticipating large
turn out for the Public Hearing. He
suggested that perhaps the District Meeting would be a better forum for this
type of presentation.
Mr. Haley will contact Mr. Lucy to determine his availability for the School
District Meeting on Saturday, March 10th.
Mr. Serafin suggested that Mr. Lucy attend both meetings in case of questions.
Mr. Hanson stated that he still had a concern about making a presentation since the school board is not responsible for running this meeting.
Mr. Weisiger suggested that Mr. Burnham be available at both of the meetings
Mr. Haley will contact Mr. Lucy about both meetings, but the
There was discussion about making a packet available for the
Public Hearing and for the
Mr. Haley has contacted PA regarding use of facilities and stated that the buildings should not be booked with other activities.
B. POLICY REVIEW
A motion to accept the Investment Policy was made by Mr. Mitchell and seconded by Mr. Fleury.
ALL IN FAVOR
THE MOTION CARRIED
There was discussion regarding the elements of the existing Field Trip Policy.
Mr. Haley stated that all policies are forwarded to the buildings and EAP to distribute to the membership and that there are policies in the various buildings.
Mr. Reardon informed the board that copies are available in the teachers’ room. He did acknowledge that the binder was probably in need of revising. He stated that he probably needs to remind teachers about it and make staff more aware of it.
Mr. Weisiger suggested that perhaps the Field Trip policy should be highlighted.
Mr. Serafin shared that opportunities may present themselves at the last minute and he would hate for the students to lose an opportunity due to the timeframe stipulated in the policy.
Mr. Hanson clarified that the board is in the position to waive the policy if that type of opportunity presented itself. Some of the requests have been more short term than they could have been. The policy provides for several options for obtaining approval.
This policy has been in place for approximately 10 years. Perhaps making the information more readily available would be a good idea.
The board could reaffirm the policy tonight as it is an existing policy.
A motion to reaffirm the policy on field trips was made by Mr. Fleury and seconded by Mr. Weisiger.
ALL IN FAVOR
THE MOTION CARRIED
New policies were developed to meet new state standards. This is the first review of the following policies.
Mr. Haley stated that these policies generally apply more to
Mr. Reardon stated that he has strong feelings about all three of these new policies. He is committed to individualizing and personalizing students’ educational programs. He stated that it is not just about “graduating early”. Students must be engaged in and have a rigorous educational plan in place. All work and academic requirements must be met. Approximately 10-12 kids in every year participate in this. Most take college courses. This year, only 3-4 students have selected this option. The students must report back in order to “walk” at graduation. The students must be doing something that we would not allow or offer them to do while attending school at PA.
Mr. Hanson stated that there are some ability to benefit rules, and documentation is often required for financial support after high school.
Mr. Hanson informed the board that if they had concerns or questions related to these policies should contact Mr. Haley. Action will be taken at the next meeting.
Mr. Fleury shared some concerns about the term “Early
Graduation” and whether it is the most appropriate title.
Mr. Haley stated that early graduation is mentioned in the state standards.
Mr. Haley informed the board that there are still more policies waiting in the wings; but that the board is in good shape regarding the number of policies needing to be reviewed related to new state standards.
5. OTHER
BUSINESS
A. CITIZENS’ COMMENTS None at this time
B. NON PUBLIC SESSION
At
Clint Hanson Yes
Gerry Fleury Yes
Rick Mitchell Yes
Tom Serafin Yes
Ry Weisiger Yes
THE MOTION CARRIED
Present: Clint Hanson, Gerry Fleury, Rick Mitchell, Tom Serafin, Ry Weisiger, Michael Reardon, and Tom Haley.
At
Clint Hanson Yes
Gerry Fleury Yes
Rick Mitchell Yes
Tom Serafin Yes
Ry Weisiger Yes
THE MOTION CARRIED
Clint Hanson noted that no action was taken in the non-public session.
6. ADJOURNMENT
NEXT SCHEDULED MEETING:
A motion to adjourn the meeting was made at
ALL IN FAVOR
THE MOTION CARRIED
7. INFORMATIONAL
ITEMS