The
Union News !
2006-2007-2008-2009
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| Archives 2006 - 2007 - 2008 - 2009 |
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DISCUSSION MINUTES May 21, 2009 MEMBERS PRESENT: C. Griffith C. Trader STUDENT AGGRESSION TO STAFF & STUDENTS: J. Lichlyter asked if Angie Vaughn could come to the Discussion meeting and talk about Ziggurat. C. Griffith stated that Angie gave training to everyone who should need it. She put plans and instruction in place. More emphasis needs to be on what the teacher does with the student. The students need to be kept engaged. J. Lichlyter stated that every effort is made to keep students engaged with the teacher doing everything possible, however, the behavior is a part of who they are and not lack of proper instruction. J. Lichlyter asked what a teacher should do if a child refused to get on the bus in the afternoon. Sometimes the parent cannot get there until an hour or so later. C. Griffith stated that the person in charge needs to make the decision. If no one can stay with the child then CPS may need to be called. A child cannot be left alone. C. Griffith reiterated that the administration will not support putting hands on kids. That should only be done in emergency/life threatening situations. C. Griffith distributed a report on seclusions and restraints that had taken place in schools. J. Lichlyter does not support putting hands on students so as much training and support is needed to deal with behaviors that are part of the student’s functioning level. SCHOOL PSYCH SERVICES: C. Griffith stated that this was a topic at the last Administrative Council meeting. The directors feel that the psychologists do get recognized for what they do. When looking at the psychologist’s role with regard to RtI, it was felt that this responsibility should fall on general education. The directors have a handle on what the psychologists do. The State requires a CODA generated report of initial evaluations every month. It will remain the main priority. Administration has to focus on evaluations being done on time. It will be a corporation decision on who they want to handle RtI. The psychologists should be a resource, but not in charge. We will not seek out an intern at this time. The directors feel that the psychologists have enough time. If the psychologists feel differently, they should talk to their director. MoMD/MD NEW PROGRAM: Decisions are not yet firm. Three classes at the elementary level had to merge into two because of the numbers. This left an extra teacher. We are currently in the process of meeting with parents. C. Griffith reported that we will no longer have teachers assigned to Three Springs/Englishton Park next year. This will result in many staff position changes. The extra teachers will be reassigned. The directors will meet all day on June 10 to brainstorm regarding staff assignments, including stimulus positions. STIMULUS DOLLARS: The stimulus money is corporation money which is funneled through SSU. We don’t control the spending. The superintendents will each submit a budget of what they want. Switzerland County put five aides in their budget. The application for the stimulus dollars has not been sent because we haven’t received each corporation’s budget yet. PRESCHOOL: J. Lichlyter asked if the MCS preschool would be moving. C. Griffith stated that she requested a room, but has not yet received a definite answer. The plan is to move the preschool to Head Start, but that cannot happen until we get a contract with OVO. The preschool playground equipment is not a priority. The equipment cost approximately $32,000 originally. It is now ten years old. We may consider donating it if it is not too costly to move. INSURANCE: The first insurance committee meeting was held earlier in the week. New quotes are expected next week from Anthem, United Health Care, and Humana. OTHER: MCS is in the process of changing ACR’s to year round instead of having all of them in the spring. ONE TIME CHANGE IN PAY PERIOD: C. Trader stated that every five years, it is necessary to have three weeks between one pay period. This will happen this coming school year. C. Trader stated it would work best if this happened just before the first contract pay. This will make the first contract pay September 2nd. Reminders will be sent out to staff. NEXT MEETING DATE: 6/22/09 @ 9:00 A.M. (Breakfast pitch-in) acc/jal |
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DISCUSSION MINUTES MEMBERS PRESENT: C. Griffith C. Trader EMPLOYEE RECOGNITION – May 6th SCHOOL PSYCH SERVICES: K. Kugler asked how the work of the school psychologists is evaluated. They currently do much work besides just testing and feel that there needs to be a uniform system that documents their work; not just looking at the number of completed evaluations. C. Griffith stated that she would put psych services on the agenda for administrative council to discuss with the directors. The June administrative council meeting is usually an all day meeting to plan for the upcoming school year. K. Kugler provided C. Griffith with an article regarding Response to Intervention (RtI). C. Griffith will send a copy of the article to the local directors. S. Hansel asked if new job descriptions could be written at the June meeting. C. Griffith replied that job descriptions would be at the Board level. ISTART 7/ISTAR: J. Lichlyter asked how the online class on ISTART was going. L.A. Hahn reported they offer many webinars and resources. Both C. Griffith and L.A. Hahn reported that the classes are going well. C. Griffith reported that ISTART 7 is going better now. Southwestern now has some loaded. There are still some problems with regard to technology, but it seems better than it has been in the past. There have been fewer complaints in the last two weeks. ISTAR is due 4/30. STUDENT AGGRESSION TO STAFF & STUDENTS: C. Griffith reported that we are now using Ziggurat instead of Bridges. Angie Vaughn is the trainer. Anyone who needs training needs to request it. OTHER: J. Lichlyter asked about the forms that were sent out regarding experience. It seems that parts of the form are repetitive. The forms will be reviewed to consider combining into one form. K. Kugler asked when the insurance committee would begin meeting. C. Trader stated that insurance companies won’t give quotes until 90 days from renewal. Since that time is approaching, a meeting will be scheduled soon. K. Kugler stated that she would like to look into health savings accounts as an option. C. Trader said that we could look at that again this year. L.A. Hahn reported that Scott County is having a transition fair on May 7 from 5:00 – 8:00 p.m. at the Scottsburg High School in the Commons area. C. Griffith reported that Kendra Bryant will be the new director for Southwestern. The interviews for the Madison director position have not yet been conducted. The positions will go to the May Board meeting. Open teaching positions will likely be filled over the summer when people typically apply. We are still in need of PT/OT/SLP. It is likely that we will have to contract with a service for these areas. NEXT MEETING DATE: 5/14/09 @ 4:15 P.M. acc/jal |
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March, 2009 – Discussion was not held as a request was made to change the date by Administration due to Scott County’s Annual Mixer. |
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DISCUSSION MINUTES MEMBERS PRESENT: C. Griffith C. Trader ISTAR: C. Griffith reported that the deadline has been extended to May 29. It is available now for input. DIRECTORY: J. Lichlyter stated that the directory is complete and ready to be distributed. Big thanks to Rhonda and Carol at Large Print and to Julie for completing it. C. Griffith stated that she would like for the directory to be distributed by September next year so that staff will have it throughout the year. J. Lichlyter stated that since she works on it on her personal time that due to circumstances this was as soon as it could be completed. J. Lichlyter stated this one can be used until the next one is completed and for the most part a lot of the information remains the same. RIF: C. Griffith stated that she is unsure how this will work out. We have some staff who are contemplating retirement so a RIF may not be necessary. It is possible that we would need to RIF one person. C. Griffith stated that the stimulus package will be a one-time grant of money. It cannot be used for salary increases or new long term positions because we won’t be able to fund those things after the grant ends. OTHER: J. Lichlyter asked about the possibility of re-joining Hoosier Heartland insurance trust. C. Griffith stated that C. Trader had checked into that and it is not an option. We were forced to sue HHT in the past to recover funds that were owed to us. L.A. Hahn asked if we could rename her classroom. C. Griffith stated that we could not rename the class Functional Living. L.A. Hahn asked J. Lichlyter if staff were contacted for input to the Discussion meetings. J. Lichlyter stated that she sends emails to staff and posts the minutes on the website. NEXT MEETING DATE: 3/19/09 @ 4:15 P.M. acc/jal |
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DISCUSSION MINUTES MEMBERS PRESENT: C. Griffith C. Trader HOLIDAY MOVIE: MCS and Southwestern attended the movie. Bad weather prevented some schools from attending. There were approximately 75 students in attendance. Thank you Cathy Fox for organizing this. FUNDING THROUGH FEDERAL: C. Griffith reported there will be an ICASE meeting in February. It is expected that Bob Marra will make a projection at that time. The budget is usually submitted over the summer to the Board, but not necessarily the same month every year. C. Griffith stated that the co-op cannot borrow money. We can only operate on the money we have. NEXT MEETING DATE: 2/19/09 @ 4:15 P.M. acc/jal |
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December 2008, Discussions were not held |
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DISCUSSION MINUTES November 20, 2008 |
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MEMBERS PRESENT: C. Griffith C. Trader HOLIDAY MOVIE: The movie will be on 12/18/08 at the Ohio Theater VALIC: C. Griffith reported that 34 employees made appointments with Maclynn regarding their retirement accounts. 403 (b) VENDORS: C. Griffith stated that we currently have three vendors. Most employees are with VALIC. Two of the vendors only have one employee each. Schools are trying to get down to one vendor. VALIC is willing to follow the necessary rules and regulations while some other companies are not. We will talk to the individuals who are with the other vendors to see how they feel about changing. J. Lichlyter mentioned that we still have some staff members who want a new vendor added. Connie stated that Mr. Telfer indicated that that vendor is not willing to comply with the new rules. NEXT MEETING DATE: 1/15/09 @ 4:15 P.M. acc/jal |
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DISCUSSION MINUTES |
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MEMBERS PRESENT: C. Griffith C. Trader An addendum to the IEP for Transition (ITP) will be used to address compliance issues with the state. These are due by Nov. 30. PERMANENT SUB: (HI Interpreter, but when no HI sub needed, may sub for other programs) Is this working better? C. Griffith stated that she would like for the directors to schedule the permanent sub. C. Griffith said this sub is to only be used for SSU classes with advance notice given and she will soon be covering for a maternity leave. HOLIDAY MOVIE: J. Lichlyter stated that Cathy Fox will be organizing it this year. It will be at the Ohio Theatre and there is a problem with restroom accessibility. There are facilities nearby so staff could take students to those places if need be. BRIDGES: What decision has been made with this? Through SSU, no one is using Bridges. Other models may be looked at, such as Zigeret. VALIC: Appointments can be scheduled with the AIG VALIC representative to meet at your school. NEWSLETTER: J. Lichlyter stated that the newsletter on the web from Central Office looks very nice. OTHER: On Oct. 14 an Article 7 information meeting for parents was held at Central Office. There was a nice turnout with 10 parents attending. Babysitting was provided for 8 children with Diane Monroe volunteering – thank you Diane! NEXT MEETING DATE: 11/20/08 @ 4:15 P.M. jal |
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DISCUSSION MINUTES September 25, 2008 |
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MEMBERS PRESENT: C. Griffith C. Trader ISTAR – Release Time? S. Hansel reported that ISTAR is working much better now. New updates on the computer have really improved. J. Lichlyter asked for release time to work on ISTAR. C. Griffith stated that planning time should be used, as well as at the end of the day when students are dismissed up until quitting time. PERMANENT SUB: C. Griffith stated that first priority for the sub will be to cover the HI interpreters. If the interpreters are all present, then the sub can work for other SSU employees who are absent. If the sub works for a corporation aide, then the corporation would have to be billed. Any complaints should be voiced to the directors. MoMD & MD #’s at MJHS & MCHS: J. Lichlyter would like the numbers for all of the MoMD and MD classes. She feels more classes at the elementary level are filtering into fewer classes at the middle/high school level. C. Griffith stated that if they are in a difficult situation, they should go to their supervisor to try and work it out. Their supervisor can then seek Connie’s input, or the teacher can go to Connie with concerns. Currently there is no funding for additional positions so we can’t add anything. S. Hansel asked if students with many needs could have separate schedules and not attend every day. C. Griffith stated that the parents would have to be in agreement. C. Griffith asked that J. Lichlyter put a committee together to brainstorm. OTHER: J. Lichlyter asked if the days that were missed last week would be made up. C. Griffith stated that she expected they would be because she did not anticipate the state waiving those days. C. Trader stated that a notice will go out in the next paycheck regarding AIG VALIC. NEXT MEETING DATE: 10/30/08 @ 4:15 P.M. acc/jal |
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DISCUSSION MINUTES August 28, 2008 |
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MEMBERS PRESENT: C. Griffith C. Trader Z. Costanzo R. Bates EMPLOYEE FAIR: Julie reported that there was a good turnout for the employee fair. It was terrific. Thanks to everyone at the central office for their hard work. ISTART 7 – In-service Oct. 2 & 3: The first in-service is scheduled to train the trainers. Connie has asked the directors to get it on the discussions agenda at the local corporations. Julie wanted to know which staff will be trainers. Connie said that the directors are taking care of that. The trainers will then train everyone else, starting with special education teachers first, then corporation staff. If it is loaded and ready, it must be used for conferences this spring. The preliminary work has to be done before the conference. The parent should be given a copy at the conference. Each piece must be included or it won’t let you finish. SSU is trying to get set up as a pilot site. After the training we may have some voluntary training scheduled after school. Certified staff need to be informed that the Clerical staff will enter in what information they can. ISTAR: ISTAR will be done twice this year because of ISTEP. The first ISTAR must be completed by Oct. 31. ORIENTATION MEETINGS/Additional Meetings: Julie stated that she liked having separate orientation meetings for the Scott Co. schools. She also stated that the packets were nice and the meetings went smoothly. Concern was expressed about there were more meetings/in-services for MCS and that the teachers didn’t have as much time in the classroom as in the past for preparation before students arrived. Connie said that MCS teachers had as much time in their classrooms as the teachers in the other school corporations. Connie reported that we have to have meetings when students aren’t in session. TRAVELING PSYCH OFFICE IN MCS: Concern was voiced regarding the lack of privacy in the office for the traveling psychologists at MCS. Zsusie stated she would like to have the psychs in the same room. There is also a concern regarding missing testing materials. Connie stated that the office assignment is Judy and Rochelle’s responsibility. Connie added that she felt that people who are bringing in students should have some priority. Zsusie mentioned it would be helpful to have a testing room. Connie will suggest a higher priority be given to staff who meet with students to have more privacy. Rochelle mentioned that they put in a request to MCS to have a wall built and it was denied. PSYCHOLOGIST SERVICES: Connie and the psychologists are working together. The psychs feel if they don’t complete a certain number of evaluations they will be written up. If there are issues about job performance they feel it should be dealt with personally with the individual. Kathy feels they need to figure out why the child is not learning, not just perform testing and determine eligibility. The psychs need to know from the directors what the concerns are, such as not meeting timelines. Connie stated that she has tried to let each director have some control in their corporation. The directors all got licensed as directors and she lets them make decisions. Some of the directors have set schedules for their psychologist and if the schedule can’t be met then changes can be made. They just need to talk about it to the director. The State is requiring schools to be 100% compliant with testing deadlines. Zsusie mentioned that they are sometimes assigned cases when the paperwork with background information is not available. The day is then spent tracking information. Connie stated that the psychologists should not be doing clerical tasks. The case assignments should be made in advance so that the psych can look over it so that clerical staff can track down needed information. Procedures need to be set by the directors. Kathy stated that they would like to receive recognition and appreciation for the extra time they put in. Connie set a new rule this year to the directors that the conference notes and psychological report need to be received by the central office within 10 days of the conference. The parents must have their copy in 10 days so the same rule will apply for the central office. Preliminary work must be done before the conference. If the parent doesn’t sign, then they should go ahead and send the report in, unless it is an initial conference. Initial conferences require a parent signature. Kathy asked if we can gather data of the other work the psychologists do, besides just evaluations. Connie mentioned that they may want to use the “log of contacts” form for documentation. Copies of the form were distributed. WINGS: Connie reported that WINGS doesn’t really exist anymore. MCS/Southwestern took over the program and it’s now called Unity. MCS/Southwestern are covering the expenses and running the program. SSU still employs the teacher and aide and will bill MCS/Southwestern back for these positions. ITINERANT SERVICES – POSITIONS FILLED? We have hired two part-time physical therapists, Jacqueline Gilbert and Angie Watson. INSURANCE COMMITTEE: Chris called Humana to ask for our rates to be re-evaluated. They denied the request. The union asked about perhaps joining insurance with one or more of the school corporations. Chris stated that the problem with that is different teacher unions and the fact that we don’t have good experience and we would likely cause an increase in their premium. Also, believe that you would have to be on the corporation payroll to receive their insurance. SLP/SPEECH: An SLP was hired yesterday. Betsy participated in the interview with her and showed her around. We are still short in Southwestern and Madison. Southwestern will provide speech to the students in J. Peddie’s class and Madison will cover the preschool. When Head Start begins, we will still need help. Ron Meyer will be working until Christmas and Cathy Dhonau will be helping with evaluations. We still may need to hire a service. We would like to have Bonnie and Betsy to help out with the supervision of speech. We would like to give them a stipend for the extra help. If we don’t provide this we may have to pay a service, which would eventually cost more. Julie will get with the union officers and get back with Connie regarding the stipend. OTHER: Bridges – Connie reported that we had some trouble with Bridges last year. The directors are currently investigating other programs. Switzerland, Scott 1 and Scott 2 will no longer use the program. Madison and Southwestern are still unsure. Only SSU staff will be trained and only ED will use it. A decision will be made on 9/12 on whether or not to use Bridges or an alternative program. If Bridges is to be discontinued, a letter will go out to staff instructing them not to use it and that our insurance will not cover them if they use it. NEXT MEETING DATE: 9/25/08 @ 4:15 P.M. acc/jal |
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DISCUSSION MINUTES |
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MEMBERS PRESENT: C. Griffith C. Trader PROPOSED BUDGET CUTS/VOC ED REIMBURSEMENT: The voc ed money cut from the budget is not student reimbursement/student wages. The fund was for moderate students to go to the vocational center. The money wasn’t being used, so it will be taken out of the budget. PRESCHOOL: It is still unknown where the MCS preschool will be located. C. Griffith needs to meet with Head Start first. Article 7 emphasizes typical peers, so we would like to be with the Head Start students. WINGS: The teacher and one instructional assistant will remain at WINGS. MCS and Southwestern have agreed to fund the program which will also provide homebound services. The program will be ½ day WINGS and ½ day homebound. The other assistant will be reassigned to Madison Junior High. ITINERANT/RELATED SERVICES STAFF: The union feels transfers should be according to seniority. Staff changes are the same as the May meeting. We are working on the PTA position going ½ time after November 1, because of some retirement issues. SCHOOL PSYCHOLOGIST: The psychologists feel that they want the best services for children. Ideas were exchanged, including the hiring of an intern. C. Griffith stated she has an intern who wants the job. We may be able to pay part of the salary if the psychs are willing to give up their extended days (roughly $12,000). SSU could try to come up with $8,000 and pay him $20,000 with no benefits. We can’t pay what we paid the previous intern. A part-time psychologist was also suggested. K. Kugler stated that the psychologists have a larger role than testing. She feels psychs need to attend conferences to interpret their testing and feels it is unethical for someone else to interpret for them. She feels this is essential because the tests require a lot of interpretation that only the psych can do. It would be helpful to set the conference when the referral comes in. C. Griffith stated that sometimes situations happen when decisions have to be made. R. Trader volunteered to supervise an intern. He is also willing to contract services. K. Kugler stated that their job descriptions don’t just say evaluations. She feels they are judged by just the number of evaluations they do. Perhaps a pilot study of other services could be done. She would like a report that shows everything they do. C. Griffith feels we should answer the question of why isn’t the student learning, not what is their IQ. The psychs and C. Griffith scheduled a meeting. IRS REGULATIONS CONCERNING DEFERRED PAYMENTS: This is something new from the IRS. It relates to certified staff working less than 12 months while receiving paychecks over a 12 month period. The IRS has changed its position on this several times. At this time, we are in compliance. Thanks Chris Trader for keeping up on this. EMPLOYEE BENEFITS FAIR: It was the consensus of the group that we should have the employee fair again this year. The event is scheduled for 8/1/08 from 1:00 – 4:00 p.m. OTHER: TRAVEL: K. Kugler suggested staff try local workshops/conferences to reduce travel. C. Griffith stated that travel requests go to Administrative Council monthly and the directors will look at each individual request. K. Kugler feels there should be a yearly projection to prioritize. C. Griffith stated that sometimes we will pay a portion or allow the use of professional leave. NEXT MEETING DATE: August 28, 2008 @ 4:15 p.m. acc/jal |
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DISCUSSION MINUTES May 15, 2008 |
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MEMBERS PRESENT: C. Griffith C. Trader
C. Griffith would like to meet with the psychologists to hear options. Presently she is recommending Zsuzsie Costanzo full time at MCS, Donna Merk one day per week at MCS, Kathy Kugler one day per week at MCS, and Dave Ziegler two days per week at MCS. The OI Consultant position will be reassigned to a classroom and will not remain itinerant and will possibly have 1 day per month for travel and consult. M. Hallgarth stated she has concerns that she will not be able to visit with OI students due to limited time and travel issues. C. Griffith will be looking at teachers in the counties who might have licensure enabling them to provide these services. R. Trader feels the OI teacher should have a choice in the assignment. PRESCHOOL: S. Bear asked if there was any news about the MCS program as far as location. We will have to wait until the Southwestern group is moved before the location will be known. WINGS: The WINGS program is being removed from the budget. MCS and Southwestern are the only corporations using it. If it continues, it will have to be funded by them. If MCS/Southwestern can fund the program, it will likely have one teacher and one aide. ITINERANT/RELATED SERVICES STAFF – How the needs of the OI students on consult will be met: M. Hallgarth has 35 students on her caseload. We are willing to work with M. Hallgarth on ideas. It is possible to get a sub for her one day per month so she can check on these students. M. Hallgarth stated it would be possible to do Scott County/Southwestern students on one day and MCS/Switz on another day. A teacher at MCS and Switz may need to cover their students. M. Hallgarth will need to categorize the students by county and their levels of need. Anyone with a special education generalist license can teach OI, which is anyone with a special education license. SCHOOL PSYCHOLOGIST: K. Kugler feels that GEI training for the new psychs would be good. There is a training this summer and Michael Gillis and Donna Merk are interested in going. Russ stated that he feels referrals are down at MCS. STAFF APPRECIATION IN MAY/RETIREMENTS: The staff appreciation reception was very nice. Congratulations to Durwin Hallgarth and Russ Trader on their retirements. Thanks to Lee Anne Hahn’s classroom for their hard work on the flowers. They looked great! OTHER: S. Hansel stated that she got something from the Department of Education regarding changes in ISTAR/ICAN. Students not on a diploma track, but educable can take an alternative assessment of ISTAR. S. Bear mentioned that at the last meeting we talked about a functional living skills program and asked for an update. C. Griffith stated that it is on the back burner until we know more about the budget. S. Hansel asked about information concerning Madison Consolidated Schools (MCS) withdrawing from MAESSU like Jennings County Schools (JCS). Anyone is welcome to set down with C. Griffith and C. Trader to go over the budget and formula for billing at any time. Insurance Committee: Cathy Fox, Anna Conover, Chris Trader, NEXT MEETING DATE: The next Discussion date is set for June 19 at 10:00 a.m. acc/jal |
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DISCUSSION MINUTES |
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MEMBERS PRESENT: C. Griffith C. Trader PRESCHOOL: A meeting was held with Head Start and Southwestern. The program at Southwestern is a go. It is currently scheduled to be a ½ day program. It will run a little longer than the special preschool class. Their calendar will also be a little different. SSU’s current preschool teachers’ schedules are expected to be the same for the 08-09 school year. ITINERANT/RELATED SERVICES STAFF – White Building: Everyone has been moved out of the white building. The storage there is scheduled to be moved. When the building is totally empty, it will be advertised for sale. SCHOOL PSYCHOLOGIST: S. Costanzo has been offered and has accepted employment for the 08-09 school year. She likely will be assigned to MCS. We have an application for an intern who wants to move to this area. C. Griffith will plan to have the psych staff participate in the interview. STAFF APPRECIATION IN MAY/RETIREMENTS: The menu is currently being planned. The union will provide the cake. J. Lichlyter stated her appreciation for the invitation. OTHER: The master contract will be posted on the website for teachers to access. The union asked what staff should do if they need something and their administrator is absent. C. Griffith responded that they should contact their principal or herself. NEXT MEETING DATE: The next Discussion date is set for May 15 at 4:15 p.m. acc/jal |
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DISCUSSION MINUTES |
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MEMBERS PRESENT: C. Griffith C. Trader PRESCHOOL: Scottsburg and Austin are pulling out of Kid’s Place and will have the preschool in their school. Currently SSU has one teacher there. We will need to have two classes (morning and afternoon). The Southwestern superintendent has agreed to work with Head Start for a preschool at Southwestern Elementary. Their preschool will partner with our preschool. There is currently no Head Start in Hanover. Rochelle is working with Head Start regarding the MCS preschool also. MCS and Southwestern will be using the Head Start curriculum next year. Head Start rules are more stringent and SSU will align with their rules. A meeting will be scheduled with the Southwestern superintendent and the principals. They are currently looking at the playground to make sure it meets Head Start guidelines. These changes are projected to take place next school year. There is a chance the MCS preschool class will be relocated to the Head Start location on the hilltop or downtown. Kathy asked if we had an estimate of how many students we’ll have in the Head Start program at Southwestern. Connie stated that we don’t have the numbers yet. It is projected that we will still have one preschool session at Southwestern, two at MCS, and that Tara Branch will still work ½ day at Head Start. ITINERANT/RELATED SERVICES STAFF: The Administrative Council has been brainstorming regarding the moderate program at MCS. There are a group of students who aren’t working with work transition who need functional living skills/self-care workstation. Students may go to this station if they are unable to go to job sites. We will need someone to direct this project. We are planning to look at itinerant staff schedules to see who may be able to work there. It’s is possible that staff may rotate, perhaps PT, OT, speech or OI. Julie’s room would be a good spot because it has a kitchen, etc. We may have to find somewhere for Julie’s class to go. The home economics room at the junior high may be an option because it is empty several periods. SCHOOL PSYCHOLOGIST: Kathy asked how many positions we would be advertising for, one or two. Connie said we would advertise for two positions. ACRs: Connie reported that progress reports have not been done all year. Directors may have to inservice on this next year. LeeAnne had three conferences that were marked as ACR’s when they were not ACR’s, but rather conferences to dismiss speech. Reports need to be included with ACRs (the one that shows progress for the whole year.) STAFF APPRECIATION IN MAY/RETIREMENTS: The staff appreciation reception will be held on May 7th. We will have the Board meeting in the afternoon, prior to the reception. The reception will be from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. We will check to see if the Moose is available and whether or not they will accept a purchase order. Russ Trader is the only retiree this year. EP PROCEDURE MANUAL: Connie meets with the Englishton Park staff every Monday. They are working on a procedures manual. When the manual is put to writing, it will be brought to Discussion before going to the Board. EP will be closely aligned with Scott 2; however, they don’t recognize snow days/delays like other schools because there are no bussing issues. REQUISITION DEADLINES: A procedure will be put into place regarding end of year reimbursement for expenses. Expenses not turned in by the end of the calendar year will not be paid. Mileage reimbursement requests can be sent directly to the main office. Julie will work with Chris about reminders. Julie suggested putting something on bright colored paper and inserting with checks. The union was asked if there were any concerns/questions. None were mentioned. WHITE BUILDING: Connie reported we will be getting rid of the white building. Anna is working on locating people in schools or at Eggleston. We will accept closed bids on the building and the buyer will be responsible for removal. NEXT MEETING DATE: The next Discussion date is set for April 17 at 4:15 p.m. acc/jal |
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F.Y.I.:
We appreciate your understanding and patience! |
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DISCUSSION MINUTES |
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C. Griffith C. Trader ISTAR: Staff are reminded to complete ISTAR. There have been some problems with putting progress reports on ICAN. SUBSTITUTES FOR STAFF WHEN ABSENT: When the office staff cannot get a sub, they need to call the director. The directors should handle it from there. Connie will discuss this with the directors so they can notify their office staff. BRIDGES: The Bridges training needs some restructuring. Administrative Council will discuss if it should be for ED classes only. Bridges is not necessarily the way to go for self-abusive students, an alternative method is needed. Bridges has resulted in staff becoming injured. A team should be brought together to evaluate. The physical part of Bridges should only be used with ED and the verbal portion will continue with all teachers. OTHER: Connie met with the speech staff about their caseloads. The supervision at Southwestern has been dropped. Connie would like a committee on how to attract/retain speech. The speech problem will not fix itself because individuals cannot get in a speech program. Some schools have a separate salary schedule or stipends upon hire. NEXT MEETING: The next discussion date is set for November 28, 2007 at 4:15 p.m. acc/jal |
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DISCUSSION MINUTES |
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MEMBERS PRESENT: C. Griffith C. Trader INSERVICE - TRAVEL: There is no money left until January, 2008. As was discussed at the beginning of the year, travel now has a finite amount and the fund has been exhausted. Directors need to communicate to staff how much money is available so that they can prioritize their requests. If a request doesn’t cost anything, professional leave may still be allowed. ABSENCE SHEETS: Not many staff members have been sending their absence forms via email to Jo Wehner. Scott County has worked out an alternative solution to their problem. We’ll know more once sub bills are received from the school corps. OTHER: Kathy Kugler has volunteered to serve on the committee about three year re-evaluation revisions. Kathy should let Julie know of her interest. Julie will need to assign other people also. NEXT MEETING: The next discussion date is set for October 18, 2007 at 4:15 p.m.
acc/jal |
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DISCUSSION MINUTES |
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MEMBERS PRESENT: EMPLOYEE BENEFITS & OPEN HOUSE FAIR – AUG. 6TH: The employee fair/open house was a big success. Thanks to everyone for a job well done. ITINERANT/RELATED SERVICES STAFF: A memo was sent to traveling staff requesting them to turn their schedule in to Connie. SCHOOL PSYCHOLOGISTS:
b. Evaluation for Preschool – We have been looking at what happens to children after preschool to ensure we are getting the right population in the program. A committee may need to be formed at a later date. PRESCHOOL: An update on the number of students was given. ISTAR: The ISTAR due date is 10/31/07. The preschool ISTAR is due quarterly. COMMITTEES: Insurance: Health insurance stayed with Humana. The insurance committee will look into long term care insurance. The scan card with the medical reimbursement plan fell through. In order to have the card, all participants had to get it for an extra fee. Originally we were told the card could be secured on an individual basis. Low Incidence: No report. Evaluation for Students w/Autism: No report. WHITE BUILDING: Several things have been done to alleviate the mold problem in the white building. So far we have checked the moisture barrier, redid the underpinning with vents, and put in three dehumidifiers. The air conditioning is also left on to help with the humidity. Tree service people are scheduled to do some trimming, and an environmental agency has been contacted. Staff have been offered space in the brick building or space in the schools. If it turns out the white building cannot be used, it may be removed. ABSENCE SHEETS: Absence forms have been an ongoing problem. It was decided that for a trial period (until Thanksgiving), forms may be sent via email to Jo Wehner when reporting sick leave. When submitting the form for personal or professional leave, they will still need to be signed by the individual’s supervisor in advance. OTHER: Some staff report they are not getting the 30 minute duty-free lunch and are being told they can’t have it. C. Griffith stated that she will intervene by contacting the director, the principal, or the superintendent. Any teacher having this problem should contact Connie. NEXT MEETING: The next discussion date is set for September 20, 2007 at 4:15 p.m. acc/jal
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Discussion Agenda |
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:MEMBERS PRESENT C.
Griffith C.
Trader START DATES: Madison: 8/22/07 ITINERANT/RELATED SERVICES STAFF: MCS will start approximately two weeks later than some of the other schools. Itinerant staff that travel will be asked to make an appointment with Connie to set their calendar. SCHOOL PSYCHOLOGISTS – RECRUITMENT – C. Griffith will talk to the Board about a psych intern. The psych that was hired will cover the leave in Scott County and then take Russ’ spot the following year. The intern would be supervised by Kathy Kugler with an office at Southwestern. D. Ziegler and K. Kugler may have to travel one day per week to MCS. It is unknown who will supervise the SLP Assistant. Whoever does the supervision would get a stipend. Currently, stipends are billed back to the school corporation, not paid by SSU. IMPROVED CHECKLIST ON BLUE REFERRAL FORM – The revised form was taken to administrative council and they were okay with it. The form has now been printed. PRESCHOOL – It’s too soon to make decisions on who will go where. This cannot be decided until enrollment is set. Currently we will send one teacher to Southwestern (1/2 day session) and one to Madison (1 ½ sessions). COMMITTEES: Insurance: Another meeting is scheduled for next week. We have received a renewal quote from Humana, but no one else. The flexible benefits decision has been made. The card will be made available to those who want it for an additional charge of $1.50/month. Low Incidence: The committee needs to meet again. Evaluation for Students w/Autism: No update at this time. STAFF TURNOVER: So far there have been seven resignations. The Englishton Park position is still open. The Southwestern Elementary ED position is filled. Interviews are scheduled for the Southwestern Middle School ED position. J. Stoner is close to filling the ED positions at MCS. It was suggested to have links to the local school corporations added to the SSU website and a link to our website on the local school corporation’s sites. OTHER: The Principal’s Workshop is scheduled for August 16th from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. and August 17th from 8:30 – 11:30 a.m. The topic will be “Managing Behavior in Special Ed”. NEXT MEETING: The next discussion date is set for August 23, 2007 at 4:15 p.m.
acc/jal |
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Discussion Agenda |
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MEMBERS PRESENT: Connie Griffith Julie
Lichlyter SCHOOL PSYCHOLOGISTS – RECRUITMENT: K. Kugler and M. Gillis expressed concerns about filling the School Psychologist positions at SSU. K. Kugler asked if we had advertised on NASP (National Association for School Psychologist). C. Griffith said that yes, we have done this. She also said that 1 Psychologist has been hired. Another possibility would be to hire an intern, have we done that? C. Griffith stated that she has tried to secure interns. Other places give interns 1 year of work experience credit as well as full salary. We could look at the possibility of SSU doing that. K. Kugler and M. Gillis are willing to do anything to assist with this concern. K. Kugler gave a written list of suggestions to C. Griffith. C. Griffith will share this with A. Conover. C. Griffith discussed the possibility of using a diagnostician to assist with testing. K. Kugler has reservations about it and C. Griffith stated that she does as well. More effective pre-referral and data gathering is needed. The SSU board would like ways to help schools that are in trouble. IMPROVED CHECKLIST ON BLUE REFERRAL FORM: K. Kugler offered that the blue referral form needs to be more readable & “cleaned up”. M. Gillis will email the new suggestions. Then Connie will take it to administrative council for approval by the directors. C. Griffith thanked them for the good work that they had done on it. PRESCHOOL: C. Griffith has a draft on Article 7. Bob Marra from the Indiana Department of Education, Division of Exceptional Learners is looking towards removing the “cap” on the number of students per classroom with preschool along with putting something in regards to typical peers. COMMITTEES: RELATED SERVICES STAFF: Everyone continues to be on target with their schedules. STAFF APPRECIATION IN MAY/RETIREMENTS: Everyone
was in agreement that it turned out nicely. C.
Griffith stated that the improved menu and decorations were worth it. NEXT MEETING: July 5th, 9:00 a.m. jal |
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DISCUSSION MINUTES April 26, 2007 |
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C.
Griffith C.
Trader COMMITTEES: Evaluation for Students w/Autism: C. Griffith suggested K. Kugler meet with Angie Davis regarding the IU training. RELATED SERVICES STAFF: C. Griffith reported no problems with the schedules and that they are doing a really good job. 06-07 CONTRACT: A. Conover provided copies of the contract and will also email it to J. Lichlyter. ACR’s: S. Hansel stated that they held some ACR’s using ICAN. She is not happy with the program. C. Griffith stated that they are looking at changes, so hopefully improvements will be made. STAFF APPRECIATION: Mary Anne Trout and Ann DeMoss are retiring and will be recognized at the reception. C. Griffith reported that she ordered tablecloths and made improvements to the menu. As a result the bill will probably double this year. It was about $500 last year. J. Lichlyter stated she will get with Chris about their budget regarding their contribution. The union will supply the cake again this year. C. Griffith stated that the patio area will be available to us also. A. Conover will contact the Madison Courier to see if they will come and take pictures. OTHER: C. Griffith reported that Scott County is looking at relocation of services. They will have their own ED/Moderate/Severe classes instead of sharing between Scott 1 & 2, with the exception of the high school work transition program. As a result, some classes will be moved. Everyone will keep their job, just changing locations. Scott County has already talked to the teachers. NEXT MEETING: The next discussion date is set for May 24, 2007 at 4:00 p.m. acc/jal |
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DISCUSSION MINUTES March 22, 2007 |
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MEMBERS PRESENT: C.
Griffith C.
Trader COMMITTEES: Evaluation for Students w/Autism: K. Kugler stated that the committee is working on forms. They are making sure that assessment issues are covered. INSURANCE: C. Trader stated that it is time for the insurance committee to begin meeting. It was decided to have the same committee members as last year. J. Lichlyter will contact union members (D. Dattilo and C. Fox). C. Trader will contact K. Bryant and J. DeVore. RELATED SERVICES STAFF: C. Griffith reported that she is still monitoring weekly schedules. Since we have another occupational therapist, some scheduling changes may be necessary. 06-07 CONTRACT: A. Conover will secure Board signatures on the contracts and have them printed. STAFF APPRECIATION: C. Griffith stated that the staff appreciation reception will be held at the Moose again this year. At the Board’s request, we are looking at stepping up the menu and using tablecloths and flowers to improve the appearance. OTHER: C. Griffith reported that the psychs will have to go to Scott County two days each in May to cover a leave. Since the leave will include all of next school year, psychs may need to rotate then also. The Directors would only agree to two days per month for testing. R. Trader stated that he would like to go back for the conferences also, so that he could interpret the test results. C. Griffith stated that if that is okay with N. Needler and his Director, then it’s okay with her. NEXT MEETING: The next discussion date is set for April 26, 2007 at 4:00 p.m. acc/jal |
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DISCUSSION MINUTES February 8, 2007 |
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MEMBERS PRESENT: C. Griffith C.
Trader COMMITTEES: Evaluation for Students w/Autism: This committee will include Kathy Kugler, Angie Davis, and Kendra Bryant. It was also recommended to include Betsy Oren and Rita Ross. FINANCIAL SERVICES FOR ANNUITIES: J. Lichlyter stated that there are approximately 10 staff members interested in Waddell & Reed. C. Griffith asked if these individuals were aware that the employer contribution would go to VALIC. C. Griffith stated that before a company would be added/changed, she would like to see 25% interest from staff. This would be approximately 50 individuals. RELATED SERVICES STAFF: J. Lichlyter asked if related services staff were still on target with their schedules with administration. C. Griffith stated that she looks at it monthly to see if any changes need to be made. Individuals who have a low percentage of time with students or a high percentage of travel time are requested to meet with Connie to revise their schedule. C. Griffith stated that the new OT starts tomorrow. The CODA will be kept on staff as long as the budget allows. Our staff did a very nice job in providing desserts for the funeral of Darla Curl. Our sympathy to Jo Wehner and family. There is a trust fund for Darla’s daughter, Lindsay, “Lindsay Curl Trust Fund” and contributions can be given to A. Conover. 06-07 CONTRACT: A. Conover submitted a copy of the contract so that the union could get signatures. As soon as it is signed it will be sent for copying. PROCEDURE FOR ENROLLMENT/RE-ENROLLMENT: J. Lichlyter asked for the procedure when a student enrolls or re-enrolls. C. Griffith stated to look in Article 7, 7-27-7. When the child enrolls the office should request their records from the sending school. The child can be placed in the previous program with a conference scheduled within 10 days. OTHER: J. Lichlyter reported that she has a service dog for a student in her classroom. Although there were concerns for some staff in the building, the situation has worked out really well. The staff appreciation reception will be held on May 2, 2007. It was decided to have it again at the Moose Lodge. A. Conover will order the awards. J. Lichlyter and A. Conover will get together to work out the details of the menu. It was suggested to have the employee “fair” during the first week of August if possible. It was also discussed about the possibility of combining with an Open House for our new offices. NEXT MEETING: The next discussion date is set for March 22, 2007 at 4:00 p.m. acc/ja |
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DISCUSSION MINUTES January 11, 2007 |
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MEMBERS PRESENT: C. Griffith C.
Trader PRESCHOOL: S. Bear currently has 11 students at Southwestern with the 12th student to be conferenced tomorrow. There will be a total of 13 students on Monday. C. Griffith stated that we are looking for a part-time assistant in that room. The assistant will only be able to work when students are in attendance. C. Griffith reported that the state is leaning toward blended preschools with typical peers. T. Branch stated that she has 14 students currently, 7 in the morning and 7 in the afternoon. C. Griffith stated that we will look at additional help when enrollment reaches 10. Southwestern is considering starting an at-risk preschool program. This preschool could be combined with our program and Head Start. STAFF DIRECTORY: J. Lichlyter stated that the directory has been distributed and everyone either has or will be receiving two copies. Thanks Julie for a great job! WEBSITE: J. Lichlyter stated that the minutes are up to date and appreciates having them posted on the website by Durwin Hallgarth. Our www.maessu.org has now had 10,000+ visitors. FINANCIAL SERVICES FOR ANNUITIES: J. Lichlyter will check to see how many staff members are interested in Waddell and Reed. R. Trader would like to see if the Board would approve an additional company. ACRs: S. Hansel asked how many schools were using the IEP form on ISTAR/ICAN. She received training in the past, but the directions have changed since then. She feels it is not user friendly and is takes too much time. It was decided Sharon should contact Darrell Mahoney to see what he can do to help. Additional training may be needed. Mary Hallgarth may also be able to help. MOVIE: J. Lichlyter reported that staff and students had a really good time at the Cinema 6 watching either “Santa Clause 3” or “Deck the Halls”. There were about 150 students with approx. 50 staff. Diana Goins’ class had a Globe Trotter visit her classroom as one of her students had their name chosen in a drawing. There was a very nice article in the Madison Courier about our HI Teacher, Katy Mulryan, on her cochlear implant. OTHER: J. Lichlyter asked if the itinerant staff were now spending 80% of their time with students as set by administration. C. Griffith stated that the percentages have improved and schedules are coming in as requested. Some staff took on other duties and things seem to be going well now. C. Griffith stated that administrative council will be looking at the low incidence programs such as severe/moderate/multiple. Elementary students haven’t moved on because of lack of a vocational program at Southwestern. A teacher will be needed on this committee. It only involves MCS and Southwestern students from middle school up. Angie Davis and Kathy Kugler are looking at the possibility of an evaluation
team for students referred with autism concerns. A meeting has
been scheduled on the 25th at Southwestern. All psychologists are
invited to attend. C. Griffith stated that if a team is being brought
together to meet and plan then it needs to be brought to Discussion first. J. Lichlyter asked who was doing general maintenance, mail delivery and ice removal at the three buildings (Central Office, White Bldg. & Eggleston). C. Griffith stated that Dennis Gosman takes care of the two buildings at the Elm Street location. C. Griffith requested that Madison take care of Eggleston. C. Griffith reported that she will be meeting with the Orientation & Mobility instructor tomorrow at 10:00 a.m. NEXT MEETING: The next discussion date is set for February 8, 2007 at 4:00 p.m. acc/jal |
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F.Y.I.:
We currently have requested possible Discussion dates and will notify you when we have that information. Thank you for your patience! |
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DISCUSSION MINUTES October 25, 2006 |
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MEMBERS PRESENT: C.
Griffith C.
Trader KEMP HALL STATUS: C. Griffith reported that the movers are scheduled for November 3, 6, and 7. STAFF DIRECTORY: J. Lichlyter stated that she hasn’t started the directory yet, but will get to it within the next few weeks. FINANCIAL SERVICES FOR ANNUITIES: J. Lichlyter reported that some staff members have stated they would like to have Waddell and Reed as a choice for their annuity. She reported she doesn’t know the exact process on how to add another company. C. Griffith stated that there are only four spots available and they are all filled. In the past when there was an opening, different companies came to present to a committee. At that time, VALIC was chosen. One of the current companies would have to be removed from the list in order to add someone else. The change would also need Board approval. C. Griffith asked J. Lichlyter to find out how many people are interested in Waddell & Reed first, before considering anything. Waddell & Reed presented the last time there was an opening and were not chosen. K. Kugler feels that service is not great with the current companies. PRESCHOOL: J. Lichlyter feels there is a difference of opinion on how preschool children are admitted to or qualify for the program. Perhaps the assessment process needs to be reviewed. J. Lichlyter stated that without any preschool teachers present then this should be discussed at a later date. OTHER: J. Lichlyter asked if Brenda Cahall at WINGS has email. C. Griffith said yes and stated that we will check with Durwin Hallgarth to see if he set it up. NEXT MEETING: The next discussion date is set for November 21, 2006 at 4:00 p.m. acc/jal |
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DISCUSSION MINUTES September 21, 2006 |
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MEMBERS PRESENT: C. Griffith C.
Trader CONTRACT: J. Lichlyter reported that we now have copies of the 05-06 master contract to review. J. Lichlyter stated she has not had time to review it yet. C. Griffith said that A. Conover has looked it over and found some typos and J. Lichlyter will need to review them before corrections can be made. J. Lichlyter said that S. Sloan found some mistakes also and will get those corrections to us. KEMP HALL: C. Griffith reported that November 1st is the projected move date. The phone number will be the same and extensions are anticipated to be the same also. When the central office moves, the staff at the white building will be on the same phone system as the rest of the office with new extensions. PAPERWORK/HOMEBOUND INSTRUCTION: J. Lichlyter reported that she and C. Trader had talked about paperwork and the challenges of getting it and processing it. For a teacher to be paid for homebound services, a PCA (Payroll Change Authorization) and letter to the supt. of the student must be done by the director. When the PCA and the letter are received, the director is issued a receipt of those two requirements from bookkeeping. C. Griffith stated that when everything is in place it then must go to the Board for approval. It may help for the homebound teacher to follow up with their director so they can get paid when they turn in their time sheets. C. Trader recommended that if the staff member requests a copy of the PCA and letter from their director, it may help in keeping the process on track. PRESCHOOL/MCS HIGH SCHOOL WORK TRANSITION: J. Lichlyter stated that the numbers are high in the work transition program and that there is a wide range of disabilities. She would like to meet with Diane Monroe and discuss this further. Diane currently has approximately 17 students with much diversity. C. Griffith suggested looking at it carefully, because they may be more case conference issues rather than Discussion. S. Bear reported that preschool numbers are increasing. She has nine at Southwestern with 12 to 13 anticipated in January. She stated that this is a large group for herself and one aide. S. Bear said she has talked with Mary Murray about possibly adding another aide. She anticipates having six students by October at Madison. S. Bear said that First Steps has a list of students who will be transferring. C. Grifith suggested we may want to look at the numbers to see how to handle it in January. The preschool fund has been in the red for years. The state is considering removing the number limit in Article 7, which will probably go into effect next calendar year. The state is also pushing to have general education students in with the special preschoolers. C. Griffith will look at the possibility of an additional assistant, but not an additional teacher. Students with ambulatory issues may need a one-on-one aide. J. Lichlyter asked if Tara Branch, who is attending the intense intervention training, could be pulled back. C. Griffith said that she could not, the training is necessary. S. Bear asked if there was any way Southwestern could become a morning and afternoon class. The preschool program was discussed. The (intense intervention) training is being done
now with preschool teachers. If it is not done now, when will it be done? C.
Griffith stated that some of the components of the program are beneficial
for students and have been scientifically proven effective. There was a discussion of appropriate preschool placements. OTHER: S. Hansel stated she went to the website for HOUSSE information. She had problems with it kicking her out when she entered her information. S. Hansel stated that the Rubric doesn’t apply to her. C. Griffith stated that she will go to the website and try to get some information. Next week is a state convention and there will be some sessions on it there. C. Griffith will get some information on it at that time. J. Lichlyter asked about the due date for ISTAR. C. Griffith stated that it is October 30. S. Bear stated that the preschool is done quarterly. C. Griffith stated that we have asked the itinerant staff to submit a schedule. These schedules are being reviewed to see how JCS leaving the coop has impacted caseloads. C. Griffith is trying to determine from the schedules how much time is spent with students, consult, travel, prep time, etc. She talked with the directors at administrative council about the itinerant staff and it was determined that they should spend 80% of their time with direct services to students. If extra time is available, we may use staff to help with achievement testing, ISTAR, preschool, etc. Some of these duties may be assigned to help out. For example, if we find that HI doesn’t have a full time job, they will have to accept other assignments or be RIF’d to ½ time. Some didn’t turn in weekly schedules and we were unable to make adequate comparisons. Administration may want them to do their own time study. J. Lichlyter feels that different positions require different amounts of prep time. C. Griffith agrees, but stated that the contract allows for 30 minutes. J. Lichlyter stated that some schools get 90 minutes. C. Griffith again stated that the contract allows for 30 minutes. Some staff are beginning their day at their office and ending the day at their office, when they could begin their day at school. This could eliminate a good amount of driving. J. Lichlyter feels that travel may make it hard to reach 80%. C. Griffith stated that it’s a problem when staff go back and forth to their office between schools, sometimes even to other counties. J. Lichlyter asked if there was a specific form or format for the time study. C. Griffith stated there are several formats. J. Lichlyter would want the staff being requested to do a time study to be involved in finding one time study format to be used. C. Griffith will need to move quickly because schedules will be set and harder to change later in the year. C. Griffith will try to get some formats together. The same categories will need to be used. J. Lichlyter reported that a lot of staff are using their personal cell phones for school business. She stated that she appreciates the willingness of staff to do this. C. Griffith stated that some staff members have requested reimbursement for this and wanted to make it clear that we could not cover these expenses. M. Hallgarth asked if they should still call A. Conover when their schedule changes. C. Griffith said they should, that when their schedule changes, we need to know. They can either call or email the change to Anna. If their schedule changes weekly, then they should turn in weekly schedules. J. Lichlyter will try to set up a meeting on Oct. 2nd or 3rd. The meeting will be about the details of the time study and how to change schedules regarding start and end places, etc. The categories should include travel, planning, student time, prep, and consult. C. Griffith consulted with our attorney and other duties can be assigned. The duties will be related to education. M. Hallgarth asked how we had arrived at 80%. C. Griffith replied that it was the consensus at Administrative Council and also was the percentage given to her by other co-op directors. J. Lichlyter asked what would be done if other job requirements take a larger percent of time, resulting in limited student time. C. Griffith stated that we are not in private practice, but rather education, and students have to take priority. If staff are at 80% they won’t be assigned extra duties. Some are showing only 50% with students. Those staff may be assigned something else. We are not saying they are not staying busy, but time with students is a priority. C. Griffith stated that she does not want to make their schedules for them, but will if necessary. J. Lichlyter will contact staff and will get with A. Conover to schedule a meeting for October 2nd. J. Lichlyter will set the time after speaking with staff to find out when they see their last student of the day. It was decided to include the ED consultants in the meeting. NEXT MEETING: The next discussion date is set for October 12, 2006 at 4:00 p.m. acc/jal
S.
Hansel
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DISCUSSION MINUTES August 24, 2006 |
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MEMBERS PRESENT: C.
Griffith C.
Trader REVIEW DISCUSSION MINUTES – JULY 10th: Currently, A. Conover takes notes and types them up for C. Griffith to review. The minutes are then given to J. Lichlyter for review. If there are minimal revisions, J. Lichlyter forwards them to D. Hallgarth to be posted on the website. If there are major changes, she will return the minutes to A. Conover. J. Lichlyter feels there has been a misunderstanding with regard to start dates. She felt that staff members were supposed to follow the MCS calendar then take four days as trade days rather than create their own calendar. C. Griffith feels that some staff needed to start before MCS, so they couldn’t follow the MCS calendar. These staff members created their own calendar and submitted it for approval. J. Lichlyter feels that staff wanted to follow the MCS calendar with the exception of trade off days. J. Lichlyter asked how staff will make up snow days if there are any. C. Griffith stated that she thinks everything is worked out, but there are always exceptions, like staff who are split with Southwestern/Madison. Such as if Southwestern has a snow day and Madison doesn’t. A blanket decision cannot be made. J. Lichlyter asked if the procedure for Discussion minutes should remain the same or be changed. C. Griffith stated that if there is a major discrepancy, then they will need to be reviewed again. Otherwise, the current procedure is okay. J. Lichlyter stated that she didn’t agree with the way the memo regarding the calendars was worded. She thought it would suggest following the MCS calendar. CONTRACTS/COPIES OF MASTER CONTRACT: J. Lichlyter asked where we are with the 05-06 contract. C. Griffith stated that the insurance amounts and the salary schedule were sent to the attorney at the beginning of the week. These were the last items they needed. C. Griffith said that when we receive the contract back, LPP can probably print it after the union also reviews it. S. Sloan asked if she could get a copy of the master contract emailed to her when we get it back. C. Griffith said that we would either get a copy to her or have June at Bose, McKinney, and Evans send it to her. JOB DESCRIPTIONS: J. Lichlyter stated she doesn’t have a copy of job descriptions. She would like for everyone to have a copy. C. Griffith said that they are in the policy manual and all of them are Board approved. KEMP HALL STATUS: J. Lichlyter asked if there were any updates. C. Griffith reported that we still don’t have a definite time to move. The state hospital said originally that they would be shutting off utilities to Kemp Hall, but C. Griffith feels they will be sympathetic and let us stay. STAFF DIRECTORY: J. Lichlyter stated that she will work on the directory. She hopes to have it ready in October. OTHER: J. Lichlyter asked if there was any list of responsibilities for TOR/TOS. C. Griffith stated that it’s in Article 7, page 13. R. Trader asked if SSU would be using our speech staff to cover the speech therapist opening at Southwestern. C. Griffith stated that it is not confirmed, but she talked to them about it. SSU is currently spending a lot of money on advertising and calling everyone we can think of to find someone. If Southwestern has to get a speech aide or assistant, one of our therapists may have to supervise. An agency can place someone there for a $10,000 fee. If we don’t do anything, Southwestern won’t be legal. R. Trader asked, “isn’t that Southwestern’s problem, not SSU’s?” C. Griffith stated that because they are in our co-op, it is also our problem. SSU is also short one therapist in Scott County and the remaining therapist in that county will be on leave later in the year. C. Griffith said that even though Southwestern will employ the therapist at their school, she feels it is our responsibility too. We are using Scott County staff to help out with the opening we have in Scott County. C. Griffith stated that the hospital is also advertising for a position and said that if they get an extra applicant, they will share. We told them we would do the same. It was asked if we could use an assistant under someone else. C. Griffith stated that we could, but they have to be supervised and the supervising therapist would still have to do most of the work while maintaining their own caseload. C. Griffith stated that we recently had a discussion about teacher files with regard to negative material. She then asked how this should be addressed, at Discussion, or Bargaining. R. Trader feels that once any negative material is two years old it should be pitched. C. Griffith feels there is a difference of opinion on the wording of the contract. C. Griffith stated that if the same thing happened more than once that it could stay in the file forever. J. Lichlyter asked if this should be decided at Bargaining. J. Lichlyter, R. Trader, and S. Sloan feel that if the two year period occurs with nothing else happening, then the negative material should come out. C. Griffith wants to define the difference so that everyone understands what it means. A. Conover purges the files and they were left because there was more than one incidence of a similar nature. C. Griffith said she understands what they are saying, but there are two different points of view. C. Griffith stated that if this is an appropriate
forum to work it out here, then we will. The consensus was that if there is a deficiency occurring every year on related issues, the material stays. If a period of two years goes by without a deficiency, the material will be removed. If there is an unrelated deficiency, that deficiency will be removed after two years. If there is a two year gap on recurring deficiencies, the deficiencies will be removed when the most recent becomes two years old. If there is no two year gap between related deficiencies, then all will remain in the file. J. Lichlyter stated that all teachers start on building start times. If students arrive before or leave after, the director should have aides to cover these times. S. Hansel reported that their building times at Switzerland County are 7:30 to 3:15, not 7:15 to 3:00. NEXT DISCUSSION DATE: The next discussion date is set for September 21, 2006 at 4:00 p.m. acc/jal (acc – Anna Conover; jal – Julie Lichlyter)
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*The July 10,
2006 Discussion Minutes were inadvertently sent for posting before
being reviewed by the Union. At the August 24, 2006 Discussion,
it was then talked about as to what happens when a noteworthy discrepancy
occurs regarding the minutes. |
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DISCUSSION MINUTES JULY 10, 2006 |
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MEMBERS PRESENT: C. Griffith C. Trader CONTRACTS: C. Trader said that contracts are being returned and that retro checks will be issued July 14. J. Lichlyter thanked everyone for their hard work. JCS: J. Lichlyter asked if there was anything further to do with regard to JCS. C. Griffith said that the teachers will transfer over in August. J. Lichlyter thanked Connie, Chris, the office staff, Board, and the union for working out the transition. LOCATION OF PROGRAMS/Start Dates/Union on Agenda for Orientation Meetings: C. Griffith stated that MCS is starting two weeks later that some schools. J. Lichlyter asked if it was possible for staff to take some trade days during the year to cover the start and end of school. C. Griffith stated that was okay, but each individual would have to work out their calendar and meet with her to get it approved. The calendars would be in writing and no changes could be made after being set. C. Griffith stated that if more money were available, we would have extended contracts; however, the budget is uncertain now because the grants have been reduced. Money will be tight. Travel will be approved differently this year. It will be a lump sum and when it’s gone, it’s gone. There will no longer be any flat rates, which will cost more. C. Griffith stated that a note will be sent with assignment letters for the itinerant staff regarding making an appointment to set their calendar. Otherwise, they will not be able to go on Madison’s calendar. K. Kugler asked if the union could send a letter to Madison’s union regarding the start date for next year. C. Griffith said that SSU has to adjust to the schools’ calendars. J. Lichlyter asked that the union be added to the agenda for orientation meetings. SICK LEAVE PROPOSAL: C. Griffith stated that the sick bank would have to be dealt with through bargaining. E.O. MUNCIE PROGRAMS: C. Griffith said there will be two ED programs. There will also be Intense Intervention, K-2 MoMD, and Intermediate MoMD classes. KEMP HALL: C. Griffith stated that the Madison State Hospital has granted another extension, until the end of August. The new building is not going as quickly as we had hoped. J. Lichlyter asked if all the itinerant staff were moving also. C. Griffith said that the Board response was that they would find a spot for them if they don’t want to go to the white building. C. Griffith feels they like to be together, and is unsure if the schools could provide private phones, internet, copier access, etc. The building has been cleaned and everyone there will have internet, phone, and email. The building is not damp inside, just damp underneath. The underpinning will be removed so that it can dry out. The carpeting may need to be removed. The itinerant staff cannot go to Eggleston because we would have to pay rent. PATINS and LPP will pay the rent from their grant. The Board said they could get rid of the building and assign them to their buildings. SSU BOARD MEETINGS: J. Lichlyter said she noticed the Board minutes were on the website and she appreciates it. STAFF APPRECIATION/RECOGNITION: J. Lichlyter stated that she thought the staff appreciation reception went well at the Moose. It seemed to be more in line with the budget and she would like to have it there again next year. STAFF DIRECTORY: K. Kugler stated that she would like to give everyone two copies of the directory so they can have one at home and one at work. C. Griffith stated she didn’t think that would be a problem. EMPLOYEE BENEFITS FAIR: C. Griffith stated that we would not have the benefits fair this year. She would like to have an open house after the office is moved, probably sometime in September. K. Kugler suggested that perhaps the vendors could provide refreshments. J. Lichlyter asked about S125 debit cards. C. Trader said that it costs an additional amount of money. C. Trader suggested looking at new companies next year. C. Trader stated that the insurance committee will meet after quotes are received. OTHER: K. Kugler asked if the psychs would be expected to handle Medicaid. C. Griffith stated that they would have to make the referral. C. Griffith will meet with the psychs before this process begins. C. Griffith suggested two psych meetings to be set up in August. K. Kugler stated she will set them up and make sure Connie can be there. J. Lichlyter asked if an aide who falls under her assists a student and that student gets hurt, does the liability fall under the teacher? Even if that teacher is absent? C. Griffith stated that if sued, they will name everyone they can. All employees are covered under our insurance. K. Kugler asked about a formula for teacher pay so that negotiations wouldn’t be about money. J. Lichlyter will call B. Schanding, who is the chairperson. K. Kugler stated she would like to have a pre-negotiation committee. The first meeting is set for July 24th at 10:00 a.m. C. Griffith thanked the union for breakfast. acc |
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DISCUSSION MINUTES APRIL 3, 2006 |
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MEMBERS PRESENT: C. Griffith C.
Trader JCS UPDATE: C. Griffith stated that employees do not need to resign. In the signed agreement it states they (MAESSU employees) will transfer (to become Jennings County School employees). REDUCTION IN FORCE (RIF): C. Griffith stated there will be no RIF. SICK LEAVE BANK PROPOSAL: J. Lichlyter distributed the proposal for the sick leave bank. C. Griffith stated the proposal would have to go to the board. The board will probably include it with the contract proposal. S. Sloan stated she hopes the board will work with the union on this. EOM/SPECIAL K/PRESCHOOL/INTENSE INTERVENTION PROGRAM: C. Griffith stated we are looking at the next step. She will meet with the people involved and will let the union know. It will involve special programs at E. O. Muncie and the preschool classes. KEMP HALL – Status on offices after June 30th: C. Griffith stated we are exploring options. FSSA took us through three buildings on grounds. Depending on the board, we could have a building here. Eggleston was offered by MCS, but that would be a temporary situation. A meeting has been scheduled with a realtor to view some property in town. SSU BOARD MEETINGS IN THE EVENING & MINUTES ON THE WEB: C. Griffith stated that the board declined meetings in the evening. J. Lichlyter stated she appreciates the board minutes being posted on the website. STAFF RECOGNITION/APPRECIATION IN MAY: The staff appreciation reception will be held at the Moose Lodge on May 3rd from 3:00 – 5:00 p.m. OTHER: C. Griffith stated that the State Advisory Council meeting will be held on Friday, April 7th. JCS will seek approval of leaving SSU. NEXT MEETING: May 9th at 4:00 p.m. acc/jal |
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| The Discussion
scheduled for March 22nd at 4:00 p.m. has been rescheduled. Next Discussion scheduled for April 3, 2006,4:00 p.m., Kemp Hall |
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DISCUSSION MINUTES FEBRUARY 22, 2006 |
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MEMBERS PRESENT: C. Griffith C.
Trader JCS UPDATE: J. Lichlyter asked if SSU/JCS are still negotiating. C. Griffith replied that we are and that the JCS Transition Proposal is on the agenda for the next Board meeting. C. Griffith stated they are working hard and feels it will come to a vote one way or another. April 7th is the Advisory Council meeting to approve the Comprehensive Plan. JCS will have to write their plan and meet the requirements. SSU will have to update their plan by removing JCS. The Advisory Council does not have to approve the agreement between JCS and SSU. REDUCTION IN FORCE (RIF): J. Lichlyter asked if the RIF hinged on the March Board meeting. C. Griffith stated that it does. If a RIF is necessary we will have to follow the approved RIF policy. C. Griffith provided J. Lichlyter a copy of the RIF policy as requested. J. Lichlyter asked if the RIF notification was planned for May. C. Griffith said that it would probably be sooner and that we would ask Bose, McKinney and Evans for a timeline if necessary. J. Lichlyter asked for the notification deadline for retirement. C. Griffith stated that the deadline is March 1st. SICK LEAVE BANK PROPOSAL: J. Lichlyter submitted a copy of the old SSU sick bank guidelines and some from other schools. She plans to get a committee together to work on it. EOM/SPECIAL K/PRESCHOOL/INTENSE INTERVENTION PROGRAM: J. Lichlyter stated that Preschool has a large referral list. C. Griffith said that they may have a large referral list now, but they may not have large numbers this fall. The Intense Intervention program may take students out of Preschool. If so, the teacher may be used in that program with preschoolers. KEMP HALL – Status on offices after June 30th: C. Griffith reported there are no updates, but we may know more after the March Board meeting. SSU BOARD MEETINGS IN THE EVENING & MINUTES ON THE WEB: C. Griffith stated that she will ask the Board about evening meetings; however, they already have their own board meetings at night, sometimes two per month. A. Conover will email approved minutes to Durwin Hallgarth to be posted on the website. STAFF RECOGNITION/APPRECIATION IN MAY: S. Hansel will check prices for a room/catering at the Livery Stable. J. Lichlyter stated that approximately $400-450 was spent last year. Typically there are about 80 people in attendance. The reception will be held on May 3rd from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. OTHER: J. Lichlyter asked if a case conference coordinator can become a union member. C. Griffith stated that these positions are not supervisory, so they can be in the union. C. Griffith stated that Angie Davis, has meetings on the first Thursday of every month at city hall at 6:00 p.m. for the autism support group. Please spread the word. C. Griffith reported that on March 18, the first meeting of the HI Club will take place at Kemp Hall in the cafeteria from 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. There will be a speaker for the parent support group in the Board room. Lunch will be served and there will be crafts and activities. All HI students and their parents were invited, in addition to individuals taking the sign language classes. NEXT MEETING: March 22nd at 4:00 p.m. acc/jal |
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DISCUSSION MINUTES JANUARY 12, 2006 |
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MEMBERS PRESENT: C. Griffith C.
Trader JCS UPDATE: J. Lichlyter asked how this is progressing. C. Griffith replied that with the most recent proposal Jennings Co. will keep equipment. At this time it is going along good as both sides are willing to talk. Jennings County will need to prepare to put their IEP’s into the CODA program as SSU currently does this over the summer months. C. Griffith stated that the Transition Proposal has been tabled two times at the SSU Board Meetings. SSU DIRECTORY: The directory has been completed by J. Lichlyter. LPP– C. Persinger and R. Smith once again did a great job with the printing. Every SSU employee should have a copy as they have been distributed with employee name on cover. FBA/BIP AND ESY COMMITTEES: FBA/BIP (Mary Murray) – at this time the form will not be changed, ESY (Nellie Needler) – significant data must be provided to substantiate the need; will use same form as in past. Committees will continue work on revisions. Extended school year is in most cases paid for by the individual school corporation. Information about ESY is on the DOE website. SSU BOARD MEETINGS – MINUTES ON THE WEB – J.
Lichlyter requested that the minutes from the SSU Board Meetings be posted
on the website, www.maessu.org as
other school corporations do this. SICK LEAVE BANK: C. Griffith said that she will need to check with attorney, Chuck Rubright on this matter. MOVIE AT CINEMA 6 – DEC. 19TH: J. Lichlyter received reports that most everyone thoroughly enjoyed the movie. Most students viewed “Yours, Mine and Ours” with some students watching “The Family Stone”. We had a terrific turnout with a total of 200 attending including students and staff. OTHER: C. Griffith stated that a realignment of the two MoMD and Special Kindergarten classes at E. O. Muncie Elementary, MCS, is being considered. Intense intervention is needed for some students in these programs for academic and social skills. It may affect teachers in the preschool programs. No new teachers will be added but preschool teachers could be reassigned to provide higher staff ratio throughout the day. Also, each student will most likely have an instructional assistant. NEXT MEETING: Feb. 22nd at 4:00 p.m. |
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