1. education
2. school

BOARD OF EDUCATION
Attachment
PALO ALTO UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT
Date:
7
01.13.15
Complete video recordings of most Board Meetings are available at 25 Churchill Avenue. Meetings are also
available on demand at http://www.communitymediacenter.net/watch/pausd_webcast/PAUSDondemand.html
MINUTES FOR REGULAR MEETING OF OCTOBER 14, 2014
Call to Order
The Board of Education of Palo Alto Unified School District held a Regular Meeting in the Board Room at 25 Churchill
Avenue, Palo Alto, California. Mitchell, President, called the meeting to order at 5:00 p.m.
Members present:
Ms. Barb Mitchell, President
Ms. Melissa Baten Caswell, Vice President
Ms. Heidi Emberling
Ms. Camille Townsend
Mr. Dana Tom (absent)
Rose Weinmann, Student Rep, Gunn
Carolyn Walworth, Student Rep, Paly
Staff present:
Dr. Glenn “Max” McGee, Superintendent
Dr. Charles Young, Associate Superintendent
Dr. Scott Bowers, Assistant Superintendent
Mrs. Cathy Mak, Chief Business Official
Dr. Robert Golton, Bond Program Manager
Closed Session
The Board adjourned to closed session pursuant to Government Code 54956.9 (2) (d) for Significant Exposure to Litigation
in two cases; facts and circumstances of the potential cases are not subject to disclosure pursuant to paragraph (1) (2);
pursuant to Government Code 54957.6 for Conference with Labor Negotiator; Negotiator: Barb Mitchell; Dr. Scott Bowers,
regarding PAEA, CSEA, and Non-represented Groups; pursuant to Government Code 54956 for conference with Real
Property Negotiator: Negotiators: Dr. Glenn “Max” McGee, Mrs. Cathy Mak, Dr. Robert Golton: Property: Cubberley; 4000
Middlefield Rd., Palo Alto, CA 94301 Parties: City of Palo Alto and PAUSD Regarding: instruction regarding price and terms
of payment; and pursuant to Government Code 54957 for Employee Discipline/Dismissal/Release.
Approval of Agenda Order
The Board reconvened in open session at 6:39 p.m. Mitchell indicated the Board took no reportable action. Mitchell also
noted that Tom was not in attendance due to other commitments.
MOTION:
It was moved by Townsend; seconded by Emberling; and motion carried 4-0 to approve the agenda order.
Superintendent Report
McGee made a presentation to student, Dashiell Meier. McGee thanked all the community taxpayers for their contributions
to the schools; noted a recent math competition where Paly finished sixth in the nation; noted PAUSD had received an
award for work with English language learners as one of the top eleven in the state, and the district would participate in a
webinar on the topic; thanked the d.school at Stanford for their professional development on innovation; and reviewed a
variety of photos from events around the district in the past couple weeks. Golton presented photos of construction at Paly.
McGee spoke about his recent attendance at the 21st Century Consortium in Edina, Minnesota. McGee then spoke about
his participation on an educational panel where he spoke about the vision for education to meet the future of careers that do
not exist now. Baten Caswell spoke about her participation in arranging the panel and her attendance at the event.
Student Board Member Reports
Weinmann spoke about homecoming week; extended an invitation to board members to judge the night rally on October 30;
spoke about the prior evening’s college fair; and covered sporting events.
Walworth spoke about the football tailgate game and fundraising for breast cancer awareness and students are preparing
for spirit week.
Consent Calendar
MOTION:
Open Forum
Srinivasan Subramanian asked the Board to address social media policies. He also spoke about testing, use of data; and
the need to provide students valuable feedback. He would like to see regular reports on usage of Schoology.
Approved:
It was moved by Emberling, seconded by Baten Caswell, and motion carried 4-0 to approve the consent
calendar, which included certificated and classified personnel actions; minutes of May 15-16 and
September 23, 2014; revised conceptual design, budget, and DLM addendum no. 21 for the library
renovation project at Palo Alto High School; amendment no. 1 to Ninyo & Moore, specialty consultants for
additional testing and inspection services at Duveneck Elementary School; and the Uniform Complain
Quarterly Report.
Regular Meeting
October 14, 2014
Page 1
MINUTES FOR REGULAR MEETING OF OCTOBER 14, 2014
Meb Steiner expressed her thanks for the community’s and Board’s commitment to professional development, noting it was
energizing. She appreciated the emphasis on students to make learning accessible and exciting.
Information
Superintendent’s Minority
Achievement and Talent
Development Advisory Committee
McGee began with a PowerPoint presentation covering the district vision statement; focus goal one; 2012-13 SARC data on
proficiency percentages, the increase in A-G completion rates for underrepresented minorities; quotes from “The
Achievement Trap,” “Mind the (Other) Gap,” “We Can Succeed,” “Learnings from MSAN,” and “Equal Opportunity Schools,”
research on 90/90/90 schools; and the proposed charge for the committee.
Public Comment
Sarah Sands spoke on behalf of Catherine Crystal Foster thanking the superintendent for his quick focus on this issue. She
expressed concern about the achievement gap and hoped programs and practices are assessed as well.
John McGuire supported the direction of the committee; need to improve the education of Latinos and African Americans;
concerned about the defensive mindset of administrators; also concerned about the privilege mindset; need comparable
data of education provided to minority students and that of other students in Palo Alto; and need research into educational
programs provided elsewhere.
Ken Dauber thanked McGee. He noted the data he had brought to the Board previously. He felt there are many districts to
learn from and suggested tapping the resources at the Stanford School of Education. He felt the committee should consider
how courses align generally.
Sara Woodham congratulated McGee for beginning this work. She felt it was a crisis for the community. She felt there was
a need to use the data to get to the crux of the problem, noting some infrastructural problems exist. She urged the
committee to use this as an opportunity for making really hard changes.
Kim Bomar noted the need for the advisory committee. Delighted the superintendent is taking this issue head on.
Barbara Sih Klausner thanked McGee on behalf of the silent majority noting they too are part of the community. She
provided statistics for DreamCatchers families.
Leticia Martinez thanked the Board and expressed hope for closing the gap soon.
Andrea Wolf thanked McGee for tackling this difficult issue. She noted there are community members whose children have
graduated, but who are still interested in the district. She appreciated their inclusion on the committee.
Gina Dalma commended the leadership for creating this committee. She noted how important this topic is to the
community. She felt there needed to be work on unconscious biases in the classrooms.
Board member comments included thanking the superintendent for moving the district forward on this issue; noted the
commitment to the work; spoke about equity in education, not just parity; noted this should include equitable finance,
effective staff, high quality early education, mitigating poverty’s effects, and accountability and finance; asked that the
framework be based on the current strategic plan; asked that the work build on that already done; Stanford report includes
the need for professional development focusing on diversity and the effects of inequality culturally relevant instruction; focus
on key student health issues, and increasing access to early childhood education; students should be co-investigators with
the teacher; noted students are motivated by a teacher with content knowledge, pedagogic skills, and relationship skills;
need to move toward a strengths-based, collaborative, social justice perspective that supports all students; suggested the
use of a facilitator; noted accountability should include a focus on opportunities and resources, multiple broad measures,
students at all achievement levels, collaboration among all parties, a mix of incentives and interventions, and transparency;
Public Comment
Al Brooks, former student, was encouraged by the formation of this committee, a topic which impacted him as a student. He
expressed the issue needs attention. He wanted to be sure future generations do not to have to face these problems. He
noted many community members will want to participate and that he too would be available.
Meb Steiner asked that site programs be researched for what is working, including after school support programs. The
measure of success includes student enthusiasm and attendance; one student advocated for the program with the principal;
and there is clearly relationship building, which is as critical as the educational goal. Noted the very challenges her school
faces are also what makes it so amazing.
Board member comments continued noting a recent conversation with parents; spoke of the need to bring individual
programs together to find out what does or does not work; spoke of the need to make sure every dollar spent is spent well;
noted the need to make certain programs work together; expressed interest in looking at ways to advertise this committee
and its work broadly; suggested it go out to neighborhood groups; clarified it is unknown how much it will cost to support
potential programs; expect a long list of recommendations; encouraged pacing and prioritization; student board
representatives thanked McGee for adding students to the committee; noted Gunn has a diversity committee in place that
might participate; asked about students who are underperforming, but are not disadvantaged; board member comments
Approved:
Regular Meeting
October 14, 2014
Page 2
MINUTES FOR REGULAR MEETING OF OCTOBER 14, 2014
continued noting this has been a long conversation that needed more visibility; spoke about Foundation for a College
Education and a former board member as a possible member; noted there are programs that should be looked at; asked
what is being done to connect with students who have moved on to college; asked what testing data would be used to
measure success; this is, after all, a national issue; expressed an expectation that there would be some with a preconceived
notions about how to solve the problem; which teachers serve these students best already; how do we roll this out to all
students; agreed students in the middle also need to benefit; need to bring all students up to the level of excellence; asked
what is success for our students; need to search for all the answers; should ask the Tinsley parents about what success
looks like to them; same for Buena Vista students; encouraged a broad view of success; noted support for giving the
committee a long leash; noted comments from Board member Tom who liked the ambition; wished it to be made clear in the
application the process if there trips or subcommittee work; felt recent graduates could lend a good perspective; felt VTP
families have a unique perspective, including transportation challenges; hoped people with unique perspectives will be
encouraged to apply; supports a facilitator if it supports the work the superintendent would like to accomplish, which might
also liberate administrators and staff to be participants.
McGee expressed his appreciation for the input from community and board members.
Action
Resolution 2014-15.07 – Adopting
a Conflict of Interest Code and
Biennial Review of Conflict of
Interest Code – BB 9270
McGee indicated there may be a desire to hold the item. Baten Caswell expressed concern about California code that
appears to be missing.
Discussion
Authorization to Bid Two
Corporation Yard Projects:
Installation of a Modular Building
and Replacement of the Fire
Alarm System
Golton explained the needs in the corporation yard. Estimated cost is $140,000.
Action
Board Policy Review Committee
(BPRC) Charge Statement
McGee provided an update on the committee’s work. Two additions were recommended: (1) The agenda will be set by the
Superintendent and Chair; and (2) Staff review assignments will be set in consultation with the Superintendent and Chair.
Board Operations
Board member comments included clarifying the building is owned by the district and is only being moved, but it could be
moved again in the future; spoke about talks having occurred in the past to share a mutual city/district corporation yard;
clarified where the building would go; and noted fire alarm is probably from the 1940s.
This item will return on consent.
Board member comments clarified the charge should be evergreen removing the meeting dates; reflects an attempt to
become more formal; Mitchell noted member Tom’s input included a request to clarify “the minimum attendance for
proceedings will be the superintendent or designee and both board members”; add “advisory” to Background and Authority;
change Background to state “was established January 26, 2010”; and agreed parent member should be changed to a oneyear term.
MOTION:
It was moved by Townsend, seconded by Emberling, and motion carried 4-0 to waive the two meeting
rule.
MOTION:
It was moved by Townsend, seconded by Emberling, and motion carried to approve the charge statement
for the committee.
Reports
Townsend thanked Tom for attending SCCSBA in her stead. She noted the PTA council meeting was the following
morning.
Emberling attended the Assemblymember Rich Gordon event; materials will be forwarded to the Board. She noted he
covered legislative activity included the dismissal procedure for teachers; punishment for student willful defiance is not
allowed in K-3; computer science can be allowed as a math credit under certain circumstances; mandatory kindergarten
was vetoed. He also addressed the potential leadership changes coming with term limits; noted the failed attempt to
overturn reserve cap; indicated assessment starts after the funding for CCSS disappears; spoke of how change of a
property from private to public ownership results in fewer property tax dollars. Emberling also attended tasting day at
Escondido.
Baten Caswell went to Addison for tasting day; noted it raises awareness for healthy choices; and indicated the chefs
donated their time. The Stanford/District liaison discussed an update on housing. She also attended walk and roll activities
and handed out prizes. She attended the Paly choir performance at Stanford.
McGee thanked Mitchell for coming to the Greendell coffee, which was standing room only. He thanked everyone for the
collective effort on the advisory committee.
Correspondence
The Board received a memo from the Santa Clara County Office of Education regarding the County Committee Election.
Approved:
Regular Meeting
October 14, 2014
Page 3
MINUTES FOR REGULAR MEETING OF OCTOBER 14, 2014
Adjournment
The meeting was adjourned to at 9:09 p.m.
________________________________
Secretary to the Board
Approved:
Regular Meeting
October 14, 2014
Page 4
BOARD OF EDUCATION
Attachment
PALO ALTO UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT
Date:
7
01.13.15
Meetings are available on demand at http://midpenmedia.org/category/government/city-of-palo-alto/pausd/
MINUTES FOR REGULAR MEETING OF OCTOBER 28, 2014
Call to Order
The Board of Education of Palo Alto Unified School District held a Regular Meeting in the Board Room at 25 Churchill
Avenue, Palo Alto, California. Mitchell, President, called the meeting to order at 5:00 p.m.
Members present:
Ms. Barb Mitchell, President
Ms. Melissa Baten Caswell, Vice President
Ms. Heidi Emberling
Ms. Camille Townsend
Mr. Dana Tom
Rose Weinmann, Student Rep, Gunn
Carolyn Walworth, Student Rep, Paly
Staff present:
Dr. Glenn “Max” McGee, Superintendent
Dr. Charles Young, Associate Superintendent
Dr. Scott Bowers, Assistant Superintendent
Mrs. Cathy Mak, Chief Business Official
Dr. Robert Golton, Bond Program Manager
Closed Session
The Board adjourned to closed session pursuant to Government Code 54956.9 Paragraph (1) of subdivision (d) for
Conference with Legal Counsel – Existing Litigation in one case: Taisei Construction Corporation v PAUSD, et al., Santa
Clara County Superior Court Case No. 113CV248322; pursuant to Government Code 54957.6 for Conference with Labor
Negotiator; Negotiator: Barb Mitchell; Dr. Scott Bowers, regarding PAEA, CSEA, and Non-represented Groups; pursuant to
Government Code 54956 for conference with Real Property Negotiator: Negotiators: Dr. Glenn “Max” McGee, Mrs. Cathy
Mak, Dr. Robert Golton: Property: Cubberley; 4000 Middlefield Rd., Palo Alto, CA 94301 Parties: City of Palo Alto and
PAUSD Regarding: instruction regarding price and terms of payment; and pursuant to Government Code 54957 for
Employee Discipline/Dismissal/Release.
Approval of Agenda Order
The Board reconvened in open session at 6:35 p.m. Mitchell indicated the Board took no reportable action.
MOTION:
It was moved by Emberling; seconded by Baten Caswell; and motion carried 5-0 to approve the agenda
order.
Superintendent Report
McGee reviewed events that occurred around the district over the past few weeks. He then spoke about the recent
professional development day on powerful practices and presented the names of the 84 staff members who did the
presenting of their best practices. McGee also spoke about the WASC goals for the two high schools. McGee spoke about
the recent passing of a former student. He thanked the many people and organizations who supported students, staffs, and
families. He then spoke about the work of Project Safety Net (PSN) and the staff members and others who support those
efforts. There is an ongoing partnership for training and support of PSN. The district supports suicide prevention policies
and has created a suicide prevention tool kit. Collaborating to start wellness centers and have suggested close
collaboration with leadership of PSN. He noted the board met earlier in the day with middle school principals regarding their
SPSA plans. He also spoke of his grandson’s visit to California and to the district middle schools.
Student Board Member Reports
Walworth spoke about homecoming activities.
Weinmann spoke about the production of Broadway Workshop; the model UN conference; Camp Everytown; Unity Day;
and homecoming.
Consent Calendar
MOTION:
Open Forum
Marc Vincenti felt the community hasn’t tried enough to learn the reasons for past suicides. He was concerned four years, a
high school career, have already passed. He noted the increase in the workloads and felt the students didn’t need to
change, the schools did. Adults need to be the upstanders.
Approved:
It was moved by Tom, seconded by Townsend, and motion carried 5-0 to approve the consent calendar,
which included certificated and classified personnel actions; September 2104 warrants; September 2014
change orders; and bid two corporation yard projects: installation of a modular building and replacement of
the fire alarm system.
Regular Meeting
October 14, 2014
Page 1
MINUTES FOR REGULAR MEETING OF OCTOBER 28, 2014
Christina Schmidt spoke about Unity Day. She thanked all students for their involvement. Schmidt thanked McGee and
Brenda Carrillo. She noted this is a 365 day project.
Kim Bomar and Sara Woodham congratulated the district for their recent recognition of the work with English Language
Learners. They spoke of the work of Judy Argumedo with the Summer Bridge Program and in other areas such as Read
180.
Srinivasan Subramanian requested Schoology updates be added to the board agendas. He spoke of the new rules about
internet privacy beginning in January 2015.
Emberling noted both Carrillo and Judy Argumedo are about to achieve their doctoral degrees.
Information
K-5 Writing
McGee spoke of the investment in the K-5 writing program, noting it was an exemplary model and is well tied to the
Strategic Plan. The report was presented by Charles Young, Kelly Bikle, Barbara Harris, and Chris Nosek. Their
presentation covered: rationale and context, strategic plan alignment, board goal alignment, Teachers College writing
workshop, scope of the professional learning, evaluation of program, feedback, teacher feedback, perspective from the
classroom, next steps, what do students say, and middle school.
Board member comments included noting it has been a valuable investment for students and staff; appreciated the clear
goals; noted alignment with Teachers’ College; approach is powerful for the students and teachers; writing is a difficult area
of instruction; noted there is no quick fix—multi-year effort; noted writing is important K-12; would like to hear more about
the other grade levels; clarified ERB is continuing; felt ERB would be a good baseline; would like to learn if teacher training
shows up in the data for the students’ work; noted McGee’s abilities as a writer; never too late to learn to write better;
appreciated the students could speak to what they were learning; would like to see more of the conventions of teaching;
interested in the ERB scores; noted ongoing concern of high school students regarding grammar knowledge for the SAT;
noted SPSAs have shown a variation in ERB from school to school and year over year; appreciated hearing about students
seeing themselves as writers and readers; clarified how writing is being communicated to parents; clarified how data is
being viewed and used to reach struggling students; clarified how a base line is established for kindergarteners; clarified
that program needs will be studied to determine if additional TOSAs are needed; spoke about the six traits of writing
program; spoke of how important parent participation is for supporting good writing; would like to see some of the K-5
Teachers College approach applied in 6-8; appreciated that the writing styles flow through a variety of genres; clarified how
feedback is being provided; and clarified how vocabulary is developed.
Public Comment
Meb Steiner thanked everyone for the presentation. Appreciated the video of the students. She felt it was critical to have
good writing skills; it is critical for any job. She appreciated the work of the TOSAs and noted how wonderful it was to hear
the excitement. She would like para-educators to have the same training and common language. It would be helpful for
parent volunteers to have that same approach as well.
Board member comments continued with appreciation for the TOSAs; clarified the role of the TOSA in this area; clarified
how teachers are supported; clarified what the challenges might be; and noted budget planning is not that far away.
Information
Office for Civil Rights Update
McGee noted one can perseverate about the past or learn from the past; since 2011 there have been 11 cases and their
outcomes; the district has policies and regulations to guide its operations, but OCR does not follow its own policies and
regulations, yet the district continues to work collaboratively and is not fighting or lobbying for outcomes; legal expenses
were not frivolous; and legal expenses facilitated positive outcomes. McGee listed the expenses: training, $6,396; cost of
board resolution, $22,200; legal assistance for Public Information, $24,007; policy and procedure development, $40,765; all
other expenses regarding the cases, $273,077. Total since 2011: $366,445. Primary goal is reduce complaints to zero;
however, legal expenses may occur if future cases are filed. The most recent case was opened on August 21 and closed
before October 1 because staff and the family worked closely together. McGee spoke about the letter sent to Secretary
Arne Duncan making suggestions for improving how the agencies work together. The district desire is to ensure all
students, staff, and families have their civil rights preserved and protected.
Public Comments
Ze’ev Wurman was initially offended by how it appeared the district was handling the complaints, but now believes the
board has taken a leadership role in a meaningful and constructive way. It is easy for Washington to believe it is always
right. Proud the district stood up. Well crafted, specific, supported by evidence, not antagonistic.
Karen Gibson was upset by conflicting notations about the rights of students to write stories; expressed concern about what
level of confidentiality actually applies to board or staff members responding to the media; policy questions should be
answered; felt the district was avoiding having the spotlight shone on her child’s case. Hopeful with McGee’s handling of
the most recent case.
Ken Dauber indicated the Board’s job is to put students first. Agreed goal should be zero OCR complaints. Noted the
money spent is a significant amount of money. Agreed focusing on the future was best; disagreed with the resolution and
Approved:
Regular Meeting
October 14, 2014
Page 2
MINUTES FOR REGULAR MEETING OF OCTOBER 28, 2014
spending future funds pursuing it. Felt the district should focus on no parent feeling they need to go to OCR. Take the time
attention and money saved and put them into the pressing issues in the district.
Monica Arima appreciated having the facts. She is working with Asian parents. She would like the stress level of students
reduced and more harmony among students regarding differences.
Board comments included appreciation for the report; had attended conferences where it was noted parents are being
encouraged to go directly to OCR and not to staff; noted there is a process in place and the district is committed to building
harmony; important to have matters resolved locally; committed to making a wonderful place for all students; trying to get on
the same page as all the organizations are made of people; appreciated the monthly updates; appreciate the opportunity to
analyze work with OCR; noted people can get enmeshed in the day-to-day; appreciated the comprehensive
recommendations regarding OCR processes; inherent legal expenses in complying for the protection of students; legal
advice supports the work of the board; experts for training, policy, and regulation, robust discussions with the community
that included legal guidance; the commitment to transparency will help with outcome of pending cases; strengthen our
practices; share work of OCR in protecting students; collaborative working relationship; the reports benefit the entire
community; appreciated the work of Mitchell and Baten Caswell; thanked McGee for his comments; SPSA discussion
helped to put this discussion into perspective; primary goal is a safe environment for students and staff to do their best work;
appreciated the work with the family and OCR in the most recent case; largest take away is common values and ensuring
civil rights protection for every student—wouldn’t have guessed there would be such difficulty; want parents to come to staff;
desire to override challenges; the $300,000 spent over the past four years would have paid for a teacher; procedures that
are in place are much better and more cost effective;
Public Comments
Andrea Wolf noted families did go through the ranks and not directly to the OCR; have to understand the past to move
forward; the community is not supportive of spending of funds to fight OCR; the money could have gone to serve students;
Christina Schmidt noted Unity Day was borne of the OCR; asked for action to work with parents; suggested coffees to
review the policy with parents;
Discussion
Fremont Hills Proposed Tenant
Improvements
Golton explained the proposed improvements to be made by the lessee.
Board comments included clarifying the district was not currently planning a change in the leasing arrangement; and noted
the district should encourage tenants to keep up the site.
This item will return on the consent calendar.
Discussion
Board Policy Updates
McGee introduced the item.
Board comments included
BP 1000 – okay to move to approval
BP 1220 – okay to move to approval
BP 1230 – okay to move to approval
BP 4117.3 – okay to move to approval with one correction on page 3 to delete “as specified in item #5 above,” as #5 on
page 1, to which it refers, was deleted.
BP 5000 – okay to move to approval
BP 5116 – okay to move to approval
BP 5137 – okay to move to approval
BP & AR 5144 – return to the BPRC to determine on page 2, “shall” vs “may”; page 4, corporal punishment language, why
was it deleted (page 4 of both the BP and the AR)
BP & AR 5144.1 – BP on page 22, asked for clarification of when this would be reported; be sure it is required; clarified in
the AR on page 3 that e-cigarettes can be added; page 16, change title to: “Rights of Complaining Witness for Sexual
Assault or Sexual Battery”
The first seven policies, with one correction, would return on the consent calendar. The others would return to the BPRC
first.
Action
Resolution 2014-15.07 – Adopting
a Conflict of Interest Code and
Biennial Review of Conflict of
Interest Code – BB 9270
McGee responded to a question raised by a board member about including code limiting a board member’s ability to vote on
any subject where they received more than a $250 contribution from a person or organization with an interest in that
subject. McGee noted that research with the County Counsel and CSBA showed this code does not apply to elected
officials. He suggested this may be better considered in a separate policy.
Board comments included support to pass this and review possible policy on the other code.
MOTION:
Approved:
It was moved by Tom; seconded by Townsend; and motion carried 5-0 to adoption Resolution 2014-15.07
– Adopting a Conflict of Interest Code – and to approve the additional changes to Bylaw 9270, Conflict of
Interest, as presented.
Regular Meeting
October 14, 2014
Page 3
MINUTES FOR REGULAR MEETING OF OCTOBER 28, 2014
Board Operations
Tom sent notes from his attendance at the CSBA board of directors meeting where discussion included the cap on reserves
wherein that board voted to take no position, instead focusing on the Governor and legislature. He noted the SCCSBA
dinner was the following night. He also noted the lawsuit fizzled regarding adequacy in funding.
Emberling attended the City Schools liaison which covered emergency preparedness and an enrollment report. She noted
the SF2 symposium concern about the reserve cap.
Baten Caswell noted she had a packet to share from SF2; they are looking forward to meeting McGee. She also attended
McGee’s coffees where she noted there was a general nervousness about the transition to middle school; would like to
reduce the stress for this transition. She also attended the Foundation for a College Education breakfast, noting the
organization provides scholarships and mentors and a support system; noted they have achieved 92 percent of the students
they help graduate college within six years.
McGee spoke about his presentation at Rotary.
Emberling would like to see Project Safety Net on a future agenda.
Adjournment
The meeting was adjourned to at 9:50 p.m.
________________________________
Secretary to the Board
Approved:
Regular Meeting
October 14, 2014
Page 4
BOARD OF EDUCATION
Attachment
PALO ALTO UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT
Date:
7
01.13.15
Meetings are available on demand at http://midpenmedia.org/category/government/city-of-palo-alto/pausd/
MINUTES FOR REGULAR MEETING OF NOVEMBER 18, 2014
Call to Order
The Board of Education of Palo Alto Unified School District held a Regular Meeting in the Board Room at 25 Churchill
Avenue, Palo Alto, California. Mitchell, President, called the meeting to order at 5:00 p.m.
Members present:
Ms. Barb Mitchell, President
Ms. Melissa Baten Caswell, Vice President
Ms. Heidi Emberling
Ms. Camille Townsend
Mr. Dana Tom
Rose Weinmann, Student Rep, Gunn
Carolyn Walworth, Student Rep, Paly
Staff present:
Dr. Glenn “Max” McGee, Superintendent
Dr. Charles Young, Associate Superintendent (absent)
Dr. Scott Bowers, Assistant Superintendent
Mrs. Cathy Mak, Chief Business Official
Dr. Robert Golton, Bond Program Manager
Closed Session
The Board adjourned to closed session pursuant to Government Code 54956.9 Paragraph (1) of subdivision (d) for
Conference with Legal Counsel – Existing Litigation in one case: Taisei Construction Corporation v PAUSD, et al., Santa
Clara County Superior Court Case No. 113CV248322; pursuant to Government Code 54957.6 for Conference with Labor
Negotiator; Negotiator: Dr. Scott Bowers, regarding PAEA, CSEA, and Non-represented Groups; pursuant to Government
Code 54956 for conference with Real Property Negotiator: Negotiators: Dr. Glenn “Max” McGee, Mrs. Cathy Mak, Dr.
Robert Golton: Property: Cubberley; 4000 Middlefield Rd., Palo Alto, CA 94301 Parties: City of Palo Alto and PAUSD
Regarding: instruction regarding price and terms of payment; and pursuant to Government Code 54957 for Employee
Discipline/Dismissal/Release.
Approval of Agenda Order
The Board reconvened in open session at 6:35 p.m. Mitchell thanked all those who attended to celebrate the final meeting
for Tom and Mitchell. Mitchell indicated the Board took no reportable action.
MOTION:
Superintendent Report
It was moved by Emberling; seconded by Tom; and motion carried 5-0 to approve the agenda order with a
change to table item 18 – Award of Contract for the Relocation and Renovation of a Modular Building for
the Corporation Yard.
McGee thanked Mayor Shepherd and Supervisor Simitian for their attendance at the evening’s celebration. He thanked
Mitchell and Tom for their service. Supervisor Simitian presented resolutions to Mitchell and Tom. McGee continued with
his thanks to Tom. This was followed by comments and gifts from Baten Caswell, Emberling, and Townsend.
Public Comments
Teri Baldwin, PAEA President, thanked Tom and Mitchell for their wonderful work as board members.
Meb Steiner, CSEA President, thanked Mitchell and Tom on behalf of classified staff members. She appreciated their
openness and availability.
Jon Foster thanked both Mitchell and Tom for their countless hours of work for the community and the parcel tax.
Catherine Crystal Foster thanked Tom and Mitchell for their humor and grace.
Srinivasan Subramanian thanked Tom and Mitchell for their great caring for the community.
Mandy Lowell spoke in depth about three areas thanking the board for gathering input; development of a strategic plan; and
a variety of student awards.
Tom thanked his mother and wife, who were in attendance; impressed by the dedication to learning of all staff, the
community, and his colleagues; never been a better time to have a student in the system. It has been fantastic to work
alongside Mitchell. Appreciated the generosity of the community, both in volunteering and monetarily. Appreciated the
opportunity to meet others who are passionate about education. Took months to prepare, but couldn’t grasp the magnitude;
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tried his best, didn’t always get the results he hoped for; there were great frustrations, but more times of wonder and
satisfaction. Loved giving diplomas to his children; loved reading to younger students. Feels he is giving up two children to
college and the 12,000 PAUSD students. Wished best for next board and the district.
Mitchell spoke of the support from her spouse. She reminisced about her arrival in Palo Alto from the Midwest. Grateful for
all the teachers she and her children had. She wanted to give back, and still felt she had a debt. Raising children is difficult;
schools are an important part of that process. Many dedicated people in the district. She thanked everyone for coming to
help celebrate.
McGee continued with recognitions of Joy Gin, Adele Block, and Richard Chou regional and semifinalists for the Siemens
competition. Each student spoke about their project. He also recognized other students, not in attendance, for their recent
accomplishments.
McGee then reviewed a presentation of photos from events around the district. McGee thanked students, staff, and
administration for their support of each other after the recent loss of a student. He spoke about hopes for current students.
He announced the members of the Minority Achievement and Talent Committee. McGee also spoke of National Inclusive
Schools Week, the first week of December.
Baten Caswell spoke of the recent passing of community member, Dan Dykwel. She noted his contributions to the
community.
Student Board Member Reports
Walworth spoke about Turkey Feast coming up on Friday.
Weinmann spoke of the outpouring of love after the recent loss of a student. She thanked the counselors and others who
were there to support students. Their Turkey Feast was coming up on Thursday.
Consent Calendar
MOTION:
It was moved by Tom, seconded by Emberling, and motion carried 5-0 to approve the consent calendar,
which included certificated and classified personnel actions; October 2014 warrants; October 2014 change
orders; Fremont Hills Proposed Tenant Improvements; Board Policy Updates for BP 1000, 1220, 1230,
4117.3, 5000, 5116, and 5137; and Middle School SPSAs.
Open Forum
Martha Cabbott and Marc Vincenti announced their website, Save the 2,008, and asked for the Board’s support.
Stacey Ashland spoke for the CAC in thanking McGee and the Board for their support of Inclusive Schools Week.
Ken Dauber supported Cabbott’s and Vincenti’s proposal. Looking forward to making progress on this issue.
Srinivasan Subramanian spoke about all the life coaches available. He felt there was a need for a new approach for
psychological counseling to remove the stigma for seeking help.
Information
Citizens’ Oversight Committee
Annual Report on the Strong
Schools Bond for 2013-14
James Cowie gave an executive summary of the Citizens’ Oversight Committee report.
Information
Annual Strong Schools Bond
Financial and Performance Audits
Golton introduced Sarah Feeler of Christy White Professional Accountancy Corporation. Feeler reviewed the audit report.
Information
2013-14 Parcel Tax Fiscal Report
Board member comments included appreciation for the extensive annual report and thanked the committee members for
their work; appreciated the support of the community at large; important to the Board that the committee is working closely
with staff; noted the level of energy on the campuses with the new structures; and thanked Dr. Golton.
Board member comments included appreciation for the presentation; gratitude for the work of Golton; noted these reports
are done throughout the state; commented on the site visits which are part of the report; and noted the reports are posted
on the web site.
McGee noted the report is mandatory. Mak introduced members of the Citizens’ Oversight Committee who presented the
report to the Board, noting how much was collected and where the funds were spent. The Committee has suggested
community outreach to inform the community of the importance of the parcel tax as the state has reduced funding to the
district by $7.4 million.
Board member comments noted the important impacts the budget is facing; there is no extra funding for enrollment growth;
noted professional development is largely paid for by the parcel tax, as are TOSAs, class size reduction, and other
important roles in the district; noted the funds are critical and agreed new families need to know of their importance; noted
this is the one source of stable funds; shared the insight on communication; and thanked the committee for their work and
for presenting the report.
Discussion
First Interim Financial Report
Approved:
McGee provided a general introduction. Mak made a presentation covering budget development/financial
reporting/calendar; agenda; update on district financial situation; 2014-15 first interim budget update; first interim budget
changes – revenue; first interim budget changes – expenditures; general fund revenue comparison from 2008-09 to 2014Regular Meeting
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15; change in property tax revenue amount and percentage from 2001-02 through 2019-20; revenue trends – sources;
revenue trends – per student funding; per student expenditures vs CPI growth; 2014-15 revenue sources; 2014-15 uses of
funds; assumptions in 2015-16 to 2019-20 projections; a summary; and next steps.
Board member comments included clarification of the pension fund liabilities which, for teachers, were mandated by the
state and will move from 8.5% to over 19% in coming years; clarified other districts are also facing the same issue;
commented on PiE contributions are more than received from the federal government; and the parcel tax is more than what
is provided by the state, if one-time funding is not included; not getting as much funding as the districts we compete with;
per pupil spending is down when factored for inflation; and noted state unfunded liability for pensions is being shifted onto
local districts.
Information
Annual Report on School Impact
Fees for 2013-14
McGee provided a general overview of this required report. Mak noted $1.5 million was received in fees and covered how
some of the funds were used to move portables to cover enrollment growth.
Information
High School Measures Report:
Advanced Placement, SAT, ACT,
Alumni Survey
McGee and Katherine Baker, Director of Secondary Education, reviewed a presentation covering key findings; students
takin AP exams; AP Exam performance in 2014; 70% of seniors take and pass at least one AP exam; seniors take
approximately 2.5 AP classes; fewer under-represented students take AP tests than their peers; SAT key findings; mean
SAT performance; ACT results parallel SAT results; district scores are increasing; students with highly educated parents
score better; SAT score gaps indicate a need for systemic solution; 2014 SAT percentile ranks; 21st Century consortium
schools; 2013 alumni survey key findings; next steps; grade levels of students taking AP exams; and where to access data.
Board member comments included clarifying the rates are increased every two years; clarified funds are used to
accommodate enrollment growth which could include a new school; clarified funds can be carried over from year to year,
but the preference was to spend the funds on growth issues.
Board member comments included noting that students were being encouraged to take AP courses, though not necessarily
the test; noted data varies when it is presented as raw numbers versus percentages; noted there are more high school
students, so more taking AP courses; noted there also has been an addition of new AP courses which would increase
number of students taking courses; noted those taking AP courses has increased across the country; noted it was important
to know how increase in students and increase in courses offered impact the numbers regarding the increase in students
taking AP courses; and clarified responses on the survey was from a smaller number this year as opposed to previous
years.
Public Comment
Ken Dauber noted there was a condition for some AP courses that students must take the test. He did not feel that should
be the case. He also indicated the cost of the test is prohibitive. A Free Appropriate Public Education would indicate the
district cannot charge for the test if it is required. He also noted students are not allowed to drop to a regular class if they
feel they are not succeeding.
Sara Woodham felt the education level of parents and ethnicity should be analyzed.
Board member comments included noting students have opted out of the tests; noted dropping an AP class is a problem
because space is not always available at regular level courses; essentially trying to rearrange their entire schedule midstream; there is a challenge to help students feel proud of what they do accomplish; charts need a zero axis; need to get
more students appropriately challenged; need to look at all levels of students; noted rigor depends on the particular course,
some subjects are more difficult.
MOTION:
It was moved by Townsend, seconded by Tom, and motion carried 5-0 to extend the meeting to
10:30 p.m.
Board member comments including noting they would like to know what staff is learning from this data; how can current high
school students be supported; expressed concern about when and how often SAT and ACT tests are being taken; would
like to know what question is asked by colleges regarding AP courses taken; is there a trigger between student and parents
when registering for multiple AP courses; asked if common core will address the concerns students mentioned in the
survey; would like to more know about what makes students feel they are not socially or emotionally prepared for college;
expressed concern about the pressure on teachers to deliver students who scores fives; concerned about the gap in rigor
between regular and AP courses; important to communicate to students the data about AP courses taken and scores
received; asked if students feel they have to take all their AP courses in their junior and senior years—should they be
allowed to spread it out further to earlier grades; noted there is a structural problem when a student gets a B in the AP
course, but a five on the AP test; and need clarification of how many students are actually responding to the survey.
Information
Office for Civil Rights Update
McGee noted the pending cases are still pending and Secretary Duncan has not yet responded to the letter. He noted the
recent policies are included in the packet and staff is working with the policies, regulations, and forms. The packet included
a screen shot of the web page available to parents.
Board member comments included clarification that staff is following up to get responses.
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MINUTES FOR REGULAR MEETING OF NOVEMBER 18, 2014
Action
Cubberley Lease Agreement
McGee noted the item was discussed on November 12. The City Council approved the amendment to the lease at their
meeting the night before. He thanked the CAC for their work. At the request of a board member, McGee noted the high
level principles were: dropping the covenant not to develop; $1.9 million annually goes to a property infrastructure fund;
changes require consultation with the district; City reports annually on the expenditures; both agencies will work to develop
a master plan within five years by mutual agreement; lease increases by three percent per year with a five year lease; and
some definition of lease payments if Foothill Community College moves out.
Board member comments included appreciation for the agreement, but concern for the loss of the $1.9 million in revenue;
appreciated the compromise; thanked McGee for his leadership; noted per student funding is not keeping up with inflation at
a time when pension contributions are rising; expressed concern about using the operating funds of the district to fund
infrastructure; pointed to paragraph 4 of the agreement noting the district does not fund major studies; thanked staff and
colleagues for the work; not the precedent hoped for; thanked everyone for the reasonable compromise; secured flexibility
to use the Cubberley site; agreed it was a fair outcome; thanked Jim Keene and council members; and noted it keeps in
place child care agreements between the City and school sites.
Action
Award of Contract for the
Replacement of Traffic Signal at
the Miranda and Arastradero
Entrance at Gunn High School
MOTION:
It was moved by Tom; seconded by Emberling; and motion carried 4-1 to approve the Cubberley lease
agreement with Townsend dissenting.
MOTION:
It was moved by Tom, seconded by Emberling, and motion carried 5-0 to extend the meeting to
10:45 p.m.
Golton explained the bids.
MOTION:
It was moved by Baten Caswell; seconded by Tom; and motion carried 5-0 to award a contract to
Columbia Electric for the replacement of traffic signal at Miranda and Arastradero entrance at Gunn High
School in the amount of $149,000 with a change order allowance in the amount of $14,900.
Board member comments included thanking staff for the coordination with other agencies.
Action
Award of Contract for the
Relocation and Renovation of a
Modular Building for the
Corporation Yard
This item was tabled.
Board Operations
Tom would be attending CSBA for the strategizing a response to the Vergaro case; would attend his last SCCSBA dinner,
the City School Liason meeting; PiE donation days at the sites; the turkey feasts at the high schools; and the CSBA annual
conference in December.
Townsend has been attending PTA meetings with McGee; would also be attending the turkey feasts and PiE donation days.
Emberling clarified committee meeting assignments change in January.
Baten Caswell made two presentations, one at Leadership Palo Alto and one at Silvar.
Mitchell congratulated the two new board members; thanked all the candidates who ran; thanked her fellow board members
and how she enjoyed working with them; appreciated the devotion and time; came on with Tom, leaving with Tom; and was
excited about McGee’s work thus far.
McGee thanked Tom and Mitchell for being such great role models.
Adjournment
The meeting was adjourned to at 10:45 p.m.
________________________________
Secretary to the Board
Approved:
Regular Meeting
November 18, 2014
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