Minutes 2021-08-09

YORK SUBURBAN SCHOOL BOARD
PLANNING COMMITTEE MEETING
AUGUST 9, 2021 – 7:00 PM
YORK SUBURBAN HIGH SCHOOL – AUDITORIUM

M I N U T E S
(Approved on August 23, 2021)

 

    1. General Business – Mr. Posenau, Board President
      1. Mr. Posenau called the meeting to order with the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.
      2. Board Members’ Roll Call
        1. Present: Ellen Freireich, John Posenau, Richard Robinson, James Sanders, Steve Scalet (attended virtually), Lois Ann Schroeder, Joel Sears, Steven Sullivan, Michael Thoman
        2. Absent: None
      3. An opportunity was provided for public comments.
        1. Adam and Erin Titter provided thoughts about face coverings for the upcoming school year.
        2. Jennifer and David Moubray provided thoughts about face coverings for the upcoming school year.
        3. Jaclyn Colletti provided thoughts about face coverings for the upcoming school year.
        4. CarrieAnn Frolio (850 Grantley Court) provided thoughts about face coverings for the upcoming school year.
        5. Stefanie Moyar provided thoughts about face coverings for the upcoming school year.
        6. Heather Salvaggio (1540 Wyndham Drive) provided thoughts about face coverings for the upcoming school year.
        7. Kristin Cummings (2635 Hartford Road) provided thoughts about face coverings for the upcoming school year.
        8. Karen Harper provided thoughts about face coverings for the upcoming school year.
        9. Jenna Markle (660 Cortleigh Drive) provided thoughts about face coverings for the upcoming school year.
        10. Dawn Bentivegna provided thoughts about face coverings for the upcoming school year.
        11. Brian Gray (1471 Sleepyhollow Road) provided thoughts about face coverings for the upcoming school year.
        12. Meda Higa (931 Somerset Lane) provided thoughts about face coverings for the upcoming school year.
        13. Sarah Reinecker (1101 Farquhar Drive) provided thoughts about face coverings for the upcoming school year.
        14. Alicia Spagnola (760 Hillcrest Road) provided thoughts about face coverings for the upcoming school year.
        15. Anne and Rosie Gray (1471 Sleepyhollow Road) provided thoughts about a virtual author visit that occurred for IRES students.
        16. Laurèl Rolle (502 Wynwood Road) provided thoughts about face coverings for the upcoming school year.
        17. Natalie Dennis (1409 First Avenue) provided thoughts about face coverings for the upcoming school year.
        18. Greg Galiardi (1530 Clover Lane) provided thoughts about face coverings for the upcoming school year.
        19. Robert Betz provided thoughts about face coverings for the upcoming school year.
        20. Albert Blakey (1175 Fairview Drive) provided thoughts about face coverings for the upcoming school year.
        21. Lynne Leopold-Sharp (744 Dogwood Circle) thanked the board members and encouraged them to model cooperation and tolerance.
        22. Cortney Hendrickson (1585 S Wyndham Drive) provided thoughts about face coverings for the upcoming school year.
        23. Kayla Koller (429 Edgehill Road) ceded her five minutes to Cortney Hendrickson.
        24. Vie Meyers (3111 E. Market Street) provided thoughts about face coverings for the upcoming school year.
        25. Jocelyn Hillman (535 Sundale Drive) provided thoughts about face coverings for the upcoming school year.
        26. Jacquelyn Desai (740 Willowbrook Way) provided thoughts about face coverings for the upcoming school year.
        27. Lori Fleming (850 Cortleigh Drive) ceded her five minutes to Jacquelyn Desai.
        28. Ashley Turner (433 W. Springettsbury Avenue) provided thoughts about a virtual author visit that occurred for IRES students, critical race theory and history curriculum, and face coverings for the upcoming school year.
        29. David Coldiron (881 Moffett Lane) provided thoughts about face coverings for the upcoming school year.
        30. Nicole McCleary (1540 Dunster Road) provided thoughts about face coverings for the upcoming school year.
        31. Cecilia Clark (448 Hillcrest Road) provided thoughts about medical freedom and freedom in general.
        32. Devin Fortney (1604 First Avenue) provided thoughts about face coverings for the upcoming school year.
        33. Melissa Cook (120 Edgewood Drive) provided thoughts about face coverings for the upcoming school year.
      4. The minutes of July 12, 2021, were approved.
    2. Board President’s Report – Mr. Posenau
      1. Mr. Posenau reported that the Board met in Executive Session on August 9, 2021, at 6:15 p.m. as permitted by Section 707 of the Sunshine Act for the purpose of discussing real estate taxes. No official action was taken.
      2. A motion was made to modify the Health and Safety Plan. Board members discussed the motion as well as a variety of topics related to COVID-19 and its mitigation. Ultimately, the following language was approved. (Motion: Sullivan, Second: Schroeder; Passes 6-3)
        1. YSSD policy will be to require masks in all buildings where students age 11 and under attend classes until such time as availability and uptake can occur for one or more vaccines for the younger school-age group, specifically until six weeks have passed following the issuance of an emergency use authorization by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration for one or more vaccines for COVID-19 for the 5-11 age group.
      3. A motion was made to require that all K-12 students wear masks while riding school vehicles. Prior to the discussion, an opportunity was provided for public comments. The following individuals addressed the board. (Motion: Schroeder, Second: Robinson)
        1. Laurèl Rolle (502 Wynwood Road) provided support for the motion.
        2. Cortney Hendrickson (1585 S Wyndham Drive) provided thoughts about several topics, including masks, vaccines, and freedom protection.
        3. Zachary Davies (931 Somerset Lane) provided support for the motion.
        4. Ashley Turner (433 W. Springettsbury Avenue) provided thoughts about wearing masks on school vehicles.
        5. Anne Gray (1471 Sleepyhollow Road) provided support for the motion and her thoughts on the engineering of masks.
      4. After discussion, the requirement for all K-12 students to wear masks while riding school vehicles was approved. (Passes 6-3)
    3. Superintendent’s Report – Dr. Williams
      1. The Superintendent’s report was reviewed by Dr. Williams.
        1. Dr. Krauser offered some additional information about the Future-Focused Planning (FFP) initiative, including a collection of infographics meant to summarize the previously provided white papers.
        2. The Board approved a reduction to the size of the walk zone for East York Elementary School. The new walk zone can be viewed at this link. (Motion: Freireich, Second: Thoman; Unanimous roll call vote)
        3. The Administration recommended that York Academy Regional Charter School’s charter be renewed during the upcoming meeting on August 23, 2021, for a period of five (5) years, commencing on July 1, 2021, and ending on June 30, 2026.
        4. Dr. Gulley provided an overview of the activities and programs offered at Indian Rock Elementary School over the summer.
        5. Dr. Adams provided an overview of the activities and programs offered at York Suburban High School over the summer.
    4. Business Office Report – Mrs. Ciaciulli
      1. The Board approved the agreement with Mackin Learning to provide professional learning services during the 2021-22 school year. The total cost will not exceed $11,000 and will be funded through ESSER II grant funds. (Motion: Sears, Second: Schroeder; Unanimous roll call vote)
      2. The following items were recommended for approval on August 23, 2021.
        1. The Administration recommends the Board approve the 2021-22 Service Agreement with the Lincoln Intermediate Unit #12 for the Language Instruction Educational Program at the rate of $92.00 per hour. This includes certificated instructional staff, assessment, consulting, advising, supervisory, and support services to the District.
        2. The Administration recommends the Board approve the Facility Dog Probationary Placement Agreement with UDS Services Dogs Facility Dog as presented to the board. attachment
        3. The Administration recommends that the Board re-appoint SEK CPAs & Advisors for the 2020-2021 local audit.
    5. Student Board Representative Report – Neave Casey
      1. Ms. Casey expressed her excitement about working with the Board during the upcoming school year.
    6. Committee Reports
      1. Committee Meeting Schedule
      2. Personnel Committee Report – Mr. Robinson
        1. The board approved the following. (Motion: Robinson, Second: Sears; Unanimous roll call vote)
          1. Employment
            1. Recommend the appointment of Angela Pessognelli as the High School English Language Learner Teacher effective August 13, 2021. The annual salary is $ 59,145 which represents Bachelors Step 1 of the YSEA Collective Bargaining Agreement.
            2. Recommend the appointment of Michelle D’Ettorre, as a part-time 3.75-hour Regular Instruction Paraprofessional at East York Elementary School, effective August 16, 2021, at an hourly rate of $11.38 with benefits in accordance with the Hourly Aide Compensation Plan.
            3. Recommend the appointment of Jolene Goodling as a part-time 3.75-hour Learning Support Paraprofessional at Indian Rock Elementary School effective August 16, 2021, at an hourly rate of $11.38 with benefits in accordance with the Hourly Aide Compensation Plan.
            4. Recommend the appointment of Alison Mak, as a full-time 7-hour Autistic Support PCA/Paraprofessional Yorkshire Elementary School, effective August 16, 2021, at an hourly rate of $11.38 with benefits in accordance with the Hourly Aide Compensation Plan.
            5. Recommend the appointment of Jennifer Hayes, as a part-time 5-hour Regular Instruction Paraprofessional at Yorkshire Elementary School effective August 16, 2021, at an hourly rate of $11.38 with benefits in accordance with the Hourly Aide Compensation Plan.
            6. Recommend the appointment of Heidi Woodrome, as a part-time 5-hour Regular Instruction Paraprofessional at Indian Rock Elementary School effective August 16, 2021, at an hourly rate of $11.38 with benefits in accordance with the Hourly Aide Compensation Plan.
            7. Recommend the appointment of Kelli Tuffy, as a part-time 5-hour Library Paraprofessional at Yorkshire Elementary School effective August 16, 2021, at an hourly rate of $12.00 with benefits in accordance with the Hourly Aide Compensation Plan.
            8. Recommend the appointment of Amira Girgis, as a full-time 7-hour Emotional Support Paraprofessional at East York Elementary School, effective August 16, 2021, at an hourly rate of $11.38 with benefits in accordance with the Hourly Aide Compensation Plan.
            9. Recommend the appointment of Joyce Scherer, as a full-time 7-hour Intensive Learning Support Paraprofessional at York Suburban Middle School effective August 16, 2021, at an hourly rate of $11.38 with benefits in accordance with the Hourly Aide Compensation Plan.
            10. Recommend the appointment of Kayla Henise, as a full-time 10 month Administrative Assistant at York Suburban Middle School effective August 9, 2021, at an hourly rate of $16.84 with benefits in accordance with the Administrative Assistant Compensation Plan.
            11. Recommend the appointment of Denise Stayman as a full-time 12 month Administrative Assistant to the Principal at York Suburban Middle School effective August 9, 2021, with no change in rate.
            12. Recommend the appointment of Brian Marshall, Fitness Room Supervisor at an hourly rate of $27.91 not to exceed 37 hours for the 21-22 school year. Total compensation is $1,032.67.
          2. Resignations
            1. Recommend the board accept the resignation of Deidre Smith, Paraprofessional at Yorkshire Elementary School effective August 16, 2021.
          3. Summer School Appointments
            1. The Administration recommends that the Board approve the summer school appointments, including compensation for course preparation, in-person teachings, and supplemental support. Rates are following the YSEA Collective Bargaining Agreement.
              1. Stephanie Reinert, Middle School Teacher
              2. Amber Kranowski, High School Teacher
              3. Tom Guerin, High School Teacher
              4. Sarah Lawrence, High School Teacher
              5. Heidi Cebula, High School Teacher
              6. Casey Reider, High School Teacher
          4. Extracurricular
            1. Recommend the Board approve the 2021-22 Extra-Curricular Advisors positions.
          5. Mentors, Mentees, New Teacher Collaborators
            1. Recommend the Board approve the 2021-22 stipends for Mentors, Mentees, Transfer Collaborators, and New Teacher Collaborators. Additionally, each employee will receive $110.00 for a preparation day prior to the start of school.
          6. Substitutes
            1. Recommend the employment of the following STS Substitute Teachers:
              1. Christina Ulsh
              2. Cynthia Hospador
              3. Allyson Green
              4. William Paradise
              5. Matthew Keene
              6. Teena Coats
          7. Leaves
            1. Approve the Professional Development Sabbatical request for Majorie Kardos, Teacher, effective for the 2021-22 school year.
            2. Approve the Extended Leave of Absence request for Danielle Robson, Teacher, beginning August 13, 2021, with an anticipated return date of January 3, 2022.
            3. Approve the Extended Leave of Absence request for Lauren Arvanites, Teacher, beginning August 13, 2021, with an anticipated return date of January 3, 2022.
            4. Approve the FMLA and extended leave request for Alicia Erickson, Teacher, beginning August 13, 2021, through May 24, 2022.
            5. Approve the FMLA and Extended leave request for Sarah Coppersmith, Teacher, beginning on or about September 19, 2021, through October 3, 2022.
          8. Recommend the Board approve the title change for Miranda King from Family and Student Services Coordinator to Social Worker.
          9. Volunteers
            1. Logan Benoist
            2. Lydia Stancavage
          10. Recommend the creation of three (3) Assistant Athletic Director stipend positions and approval of the related job description.
    7. Legislative Update – Mr. Robinson
      1. Mr. Robinson reported that the legislature has abdicated its responsibility for charter reform, and the Department of Health and Department of Education have similarly failed to provide COVID-19 guidance.
    8. Lincoln Intermediate Unit Report – Mrs. Freirich
      1. The “…by Dawn’s Early Light”, highlights of the LIU Board meeting of August 3, 2021, were provided.
    9. York Adams Academy Report – Mrs. Freireich
      1. Mrs.  Freireich reported that the school is ready to get started next week with its new director.
    10. York Adams Tax Bureau Report – Mrs. Ciaciulli
      1. No report was provided.
    11. York County School of Technology Report – Mrs. Schroeder
      1. The YCST Joint Operating Committee Mini-Board Report of July 22 was provided.
      2. Mrs. Schroeder thanked Mr. Posenau for attending a recent meeting in her absence.
      3. Mr. Sanders asked for an update on the gym project, and Mrs. Schroeder reported that it came in under budget. Mr. Sanders asked that a final financial report be provided during the next board meeting.
    12. Mr. Posenau thanked everyone for attending the meeting.
    13. The board meeting schedule was provided.
    14. An opportunity was provided for public comment.
      1. Ryan Emerson (2835 Lehigh Road) thanked the Board for its decision to change the East York Elementary School walk zone.
      2. Laurèl Rolle (502 Wynwood Road) thanked the Board for its decision to change the Health and Safety Plan, and she suggested that the topic of Black history should be considered next.
      3. Rachel Mendoza (381 Old Orchard Lane) suggested that education for students about how to properly wear a mask should be considered.
      4. David Coldiron (881 Moffett Lane) asked for clarification about whether all middle school students will need to wear masks as a result of the Health and Safety Plan change. It was confirmed that all middle school students will be required to wear masks.
      5. Finn Beauregard (455 Cortleigh Drive) provided thoughts about expanding the curriculum to cover the history of more minority groups.
    15. The meeting was adjourned at 10:26 p.m.

 

Link to Meeting Video

Posted in SB-Minutes