Proviso Township High School District 209 Board of Education met Dec. 9.
Here is the minutes provided by the board:
PRESENT – Board Members:
Mr. Rodney Alexander
Ms. Amanda Grant
Mrs. Claudia Medina
Ms. Arbdella “Della” Patterson (arrived during closed session)
Mr. Samuel Valtierrez
Mr. Ned Wagner
ABSENT - Mrs. Theresa L. Kelly
PRESENT – Administration:
Dr. Jesse J. Rodríguez, Superintendent
Dr. Nicole Howard, Assistant Superintendent of Academics and Family Services
Mr. Paul Starck-King, Assistant Superintendent of Finance and Operations
Dr. Tony Brazouski, Asst. Superintendent for Human Resources, Safety & Athletics
Dr. Nia Abdullah, Principal, Proviso West High School
Dr. Bessie Karvelas, Principal, Proviso Mathematics and Science Academy
Dr. Patrick Hardy, Principal, Proviso East High School
Legal:
Mr. William Gleason, Attorney, Hauser Izzo, LLC
Superintendent’s Office:
Mrs. Karen O’Shea, Secretary to the Superintendent
EXECUTIVE SESSION
It was moved by Mrs. Medina and seconded by Mr. Valtierrez, that the Board of Education of the Proviso Township High Schools District 209 retire to executive session at approximately 5:40 PM for the purpose of discussing items as listed on the agenda.
• The appointment, employments, compensation, discipline, performance, or dismissal of specific employees of the public body or legal counsel for the public body, including hearing testimony on a complaint lodged against an employee of the public body or against legal counsel for the public body to determine its validity. 5 ILCS 120/2(c)(1).
• Collective negotiating matters between the public body and its employees or their representatives, or deliberations concerning salary schedules for one or more classes of employees 5 ILCS 120/2(c) (2).
• Litigation, when an action against, affecting or on behalf of the particular public body has been filled and is pending before a court or administrative tribunal, or when the public body finds that an action is probable or imminent, in which case the basis for the finding shall be recorded and entered into the minutes of the closed meeting. 5 ILCS 120/2(c) (11).
Upon roll call, the following members voted:
5 Ayes: Mr. Alexander, Ms. Grant, Mrs. Medina, Mr. Wagner, Mr. Valtierrez
0 Nays: None
0 Abstain: None
2 Absent: Mrs. Kelly, Ms. Patterson
MOTION PASSED
RECONVENE REGULAR MEETING
It was moved by Mrs. Medina, seconded by Mr. Valtierrez, that the Board of Education of Proviso Township High Schools District 209 reconvene the Regular Meeting at approximately 7:50PM.
Upon roll call, the following members voted:
5 Ayes: Mr. Alexander, Mrs. Medina, Ms. Patterson, Mr. Wagner, Mr. Valtierrez
0 Nays: None
0 Abstain: None
2 Absent: Mrs. Kelly, Ms. Grant
MOTION PASSED
MOMENT OF SILENCE
Mr. Wagner asked for those present to stand for a moment of silence.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Mr. Wagner led those present in the Pledge of Allegiance.
VISION STATEMENT
Mrs. Medina read the D209 Vision Statement into the record.
CLOSING COMMENTS FROM THE FINANCIAL OVERSIGHT PANEL
Dr. Schilling stated that on November 22, 2019, the FOP presented a motion to the Illinois State Board of Education that the PTHS D209 Financial Oversight Panel be dissolved by December 31, 2019. He stated that the District has done very well and is financially sound. He further stated that the District has met all of the designated FOP Benchmarks. He thanked the Board of Education members and the District administrators for their hard work and dedication. He wished the District the best in the future and stated that PTHS D209 is in a great place to do great things for the community.
PTHS D209 SUPERINTENDENT CLOSING COMMENTS TO THE FINANCIAL OVERSIGHT PANEL
Dr. Rodriguez stated that the dissolution of the Financial Oversight Panel is a big celebration, he stated that in 2016 PTHS D209 did not have a solid financial plan. He thanked the FOP for their guidance and financial expertise the District now has a 5-year financial plan and solid funding for the Facility Master Plan and the future. The Board expressed their sincere appreciation to the FOP members for their support. Dr. Rodriguez concluded with a token of appreciation for all FOP members and stated that the FOP has always been a great support system for the District.
The Financial Oversight Panel adjourned at 8:09 PM.
STUDENT AND STAFF RECOGNITION
Dr. Hardy recognized Ms. Jessica Gomez-Aceves for her excellent performance in spoken word for the Hispanic Heritage Essay. He invited Ms. Gomez-Aceves to perform her poem for the Board. He then recognized Ms. Jennifer Moore, Ms. Marcia LaPorte and Mr. George Bunn for their outstanding dedication to community and the students in their organization of the Life & Times of Fred Hampton Exhibit in honor of Mr. Hampton’s Life.
CITIZEN COMMENTS
• Najaa Abdullah commented on her experiences at Proviso West and her experiences as Dr. Abdullah’s Daughter.
• Jeremy Horn commented on the activities at Proviso East, Proviso West and PMSA specifically the Fred Hampton Exhibit, the fall plays, and fundraising. He congratulated the Proviso East Pirate basketball team on their win in the St. Charles Tournament. He also commented on the PTHS D209 Town Hall events.
• Bishop Saffo and Members of PTMan commented in support of Dr. Abdullah’s reinstatement as Proviso West Principal.
• Tyreese Stafford commented as the Proviso West Alumni Committee member in support of the football tailgate and other activities Dr. Abdullah has supported.
• Stacy Lee commented on behalf of the parent ambassadors requesting Principal Abdullah be reinstated at Proviso West.
• A. Gray commented regarding the Principal at Proviso West and the learning curve allowed for other administrators.
• Richard Smith commented on behalf of Dr. Abdullah and her educational background and drive.
• Maggie Riley commented regarding the positive changes at Proviso West since Mr. Aguirre has been present.
• Roger Romanelli commented regarding Dr. Abdullah’s work at Proviso West and funding for the facility master plan.
• Les Lynn commented regarding Dr. Abdullah.
• Steve Ngo commented on behalf of Dr. Abdullah.
• Sophia Daly commented on behalf of Dr. Abdullah, her drive to improve Proviso West and to reinstate Dr. Abdullah as Principal of Proviso West.
• Maria Scavella commented regarding leadership at Proviso West on behalf of Dr. Abdullah. She also thanked the Board for all they do.
• Howard Ray commented on Proviso West and on behalf of Dr. Abdullah. He also commented on questions from the community.
• Tavarion McGregg commented on behalf of Dr. Abdullah and her mentorship and encouragement of students.
REPORTS AND COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE BOARD PRESIDENT
Mr. Wagner thanked all of the community members for attending tonight. He stated that it takes a lot of time out of their day. Mr. Wagner stated that he was glad the community members here tonight were able to witness the Financial Oversight Panel leaving the District after 10 years. He further stated it is a huge accomplishment to the Board and Administration and commended everyone for their hard work and dedication. He stated that the District is financially sound and stable for the future.
FOIA REPORT
Mrs. Medina read the FOIA report into the record. Ms. O’Shea answered a clarifying question from the Board regarding who the requestor was for the FOIA listed, the requestor was ABC News
REPORTS FROM STANDING COMMITTEES
Finance and Facilities Committee
Mr. Starck-King introduced Ms. Miller to briefly review the Financial Report. She also asked the Board if there were any questions regarding the Bill List.
Mr. Dolter from Perkins+Will to review the Facility Master Plan updates. Mr. Dolter reviewed the phase 1 sequence highlighting the parking lots, reconstruction of culinary labs, walking track. He stated the plan is to release bids in January and to review and approve the bids at the February Board meeting. Mr. Dolter answered questions from the Board regarding when the work is going to begin since the Board has heard the same reports for the last 3 months. Mr. Slattery from Gilbane stated the work is to begin in April 2020. Mr. Dolter answered questions regarding the North Parking lot at Proviso East.
Mr. Starck-King reviewed the proposed roof project at PAEC Center. He stated the project will cost PTHS D209 approximately $1.7 million. He answered questions from the Board regarding the history of the roof at PAEC and answered questions regarding the number of students serviced at PAEC. He stated for the Board that he would need to research the information and provide it to the Board at a later date.
Online Registration System
It was moved by Ms. Grant, seconded by Mr. Alexander that the Board of Education of Proviso Township High Schools District 209 accepts the Superintendent’s recommendation to approve the online registration system as presented.
Dr. Friedman answered questions from the Board regarding communication abilities with PowerSchool and what the differences are between the current online registration operation.
Upon roll call, the following members voted:
6 Ayes: Mr. Alexander, Ms. Grant, Mrs. Medina, Ms. Patterson, Mr. Valtierrez, Mr. Wagner
0 Nays: None
0 Abstain: None
1 Absent: Mrs. Kelly
MOTION PASSED
Natural Gas Supply Contract
It was moved by Ms. Grant, seconded by Mr. Alexander that the Board of Education of Proviso Township High Schools District 209 accepts the Superintendent’s recommendation to approve the donations to the District as presented.
Mr. Starck-King answered questions from the Board regarding the ability to opt out of the contract after the time expires.
Upon roll call, the following members voted:
6 Ayes: Mr. Alexander, Ms. Grant, Mrs. Medina, Ms. Patterson, Mr. Valtierrez, Mr. Wagner
0 Nays: None
0 Abstain: None
1 Absent: Mrs. Kelly
MOTION PASSED
Bill List
It was moved by Ms. Grant, seconded by Mr. Alexander that the Board of Education of Proviso Township High Schools District 209 accepts the Superintendent’s recommendation to approve the bill list as presented.
Upon roll call, the following members voted:
6 Ayes: Mr. Alexander, Ms. Grant, Mrs. Medina, Ms. Patterson, Mr. Valtierrez, Mr. Wagner
0 Nays: None
0 Abstain: None
1 Absent: Mrs. Kelly
MOTION PASSED
Advanced Manufacturing Bid
It was moved by Ms. Grant, seconded by Mrs. Medina that the Board of Education of Proviso Township High Schools District 209 accepts the Superintendent’s recommendation to approve the advanced manufacturing bid as presented.
Mr. Starck-King and Mr. Johnson answered questions from the Board regarding the equipment being purchased. There was a discussion regarding the type of machinery and if the equipment was manual.
Upon roll call, the following members voted:
6 Ayes: Mr. Alexander, Ms. Grant, Mrs. Medina, Ms. Patterson, Mr. Valtierrez, Mr. Wagner
0 Nays: None
0 Abstain: None
1 Absent: Mrs. Kelly
MOTION PASSED
Geotechnical Services Bid
It was moved by Ms. Grant, seconded by Mr. Alexander that the Board of Education of Proviso Township High Schools District 209 accepts the Superintendent’s recommendation to approve geotechnical services bid as presented.
During discussion, Mr. Starck-King stated that the contract was being brought to the Board because if there are any additional boring the cost would exceed $25,000 and need Board approval.
Upon roll call, the following members voted:
6 Ayes: Mr. Alexander, Ms. Grant, Mrs. Kelly, Mrs. Medina, Mr. Valtierrez, Mr. Wagner
0 Nays: None
0 Abstain: None
1 Absent: Ms. Patterson
MOTION PASSED
Mr. Starck-King and Ms. Grant then reviewed for the Board a discussion that arose from the Finance and Facilities committee regarding women and minority owned contractors. Ms. Grant stated that the District is duty bound to accept the lowest responsible bidder however there needed to be a discussion regarding tracking to ensure the District is proceeding as planned. Mr. Starck-King stated that there were consultants who would ensure this process was followed. There was a discussion among the Board regarding the need and cost of a consultant. Ms. Grant stated that the Board could ask Gilbane to have a 15% women and minority owned company goal for the first phase of the facility master plan and then proceed from there. There was an agreement among the Board to hold off on employing a consultant until the following year.
It was moved by Mr. Valtierrez that the agenda be amended to move the consent agenda to the present discussion topic and then pull item 18C to be discussed and voted on in the interest of the public body. During discussion with legal counsel, Mr. Valtierrez amended his motion.
It was moved by Mr. Valtierrez, seconded by Mr. Alexander that the agenda be amended to move item 18C to be the next action item discussed.
Upon roll call, the following members voted:
4 Ayes: Mr. Alexander, Ms. Grant, Ms. Patterson, Mr. Valtierrez
2 Nays: Mrs. Medina, Mr. Wagner
0 Abstain: None
1 Absent: Mrs. Kelly
MOTION PASSED
It was moved by Mr. Valtierrez, seconded by Mr. Alexander to approve item 18-C to reinstate Dr. Nia Abdullah as Principal at Proviso West.
It was moved by Mr. Wagner, seconded by Ms. Grant to table item 18-C until after the second closed session.
There was a discussion with legal counsel regarding the motion on the floor and what order to vote on them. The motion to table is in order and not debatable therefore that the motion to table is the current motion on the floor.
Motion to table item 18C until after to second closed session
It was moved by Mr. Wagner, seconded by Ms. Grant to table item 18-C until after the second closed session.
Upon roll call, the following members voted:
3 Ayes: Ms. Grant, Mrs. Medina, Mr. Wagner
3 Nays: Mr. Alexander, Ms. Patterson, Mr. Valtierrez
0 Abstain: None
1 Absent: Mrs. Kelly
MOTION FAILED
Motion to Reinstate Dr. Abdullah as Principal at Proviso West.
It was previously moved by Mr. Valtierrez, seconded by Mr. Alexander to approve item 18-C to reinstate Dr. Nia Abdullah as Principal at Proviso West.
Upon roll call, the following members voted:
4 Ayes: Mr. Alexander, Ms. Grant, Ms. Patterson, Mr. Valtierrez
2 Nays: Mrs. Medina, Mr. Wagner
0 Abstain: None
1 Absent: Mrs. Kelly
MOTION PASSED
There was a discussion with legal counsel regarding clarification regarding the recommendation of the superintendent and the recommendation in the motion. Mr. Alexander commented regarding equity and fairness for all people. He stated this is a historic moment and the Board is listening to the community. Mr. Wagner stated that last month the Superintendent asked for the Board direction and no Board members spoke up. Mr. Valtierrez stated the Board has listened to the community and is doing the reinstatement for the students. Mrs. Medina stated that not all of the information has been heard. Ms. Grant stated the District needs to let cooler heads prevail and move forward. Ms. Patterson stated the District should always be representative of integrity, fairness and constancy. She has read all of the materials sent and has listened to the community and how Dr. Abdullah has made a difference. She also apologized to the community for the meeting in the auditorium being impersonal and for the presence of the uniformed county sheriffs.
Mr. Valtierrez asked for clarification from legal counsel to ensure that if the motion passes, Dr. Abdullah is reinstated at Proviso West as Principal. Mrs. Medina clarified for the Board and audience the meaning of an “aye” vote and a “nay” vote.
Upon roll call, the following members voted:
4 Ayes: Mr. Alexander, Ms. Grant, Ms. Patterson, Mr. Valtierrez
2 Nays: Mrs. Medina, Mr. Wagner
0 Abstain: None
1 Absent: Mrs. Kelly
MOTION PASSED
It was moved by Mr. Alexander, seconded by Ms. Patterson that Dr. Nia Abdullah be reinstated immediately as Principal of Proviso West High School tomorrow morning, December 11, 2019, Dr. Abdullah’s personnel file effective immediately no longer contain any information related to any disciplinary information against her, up to and including her reassignment by the superintendent, that Dr. Abdullah receive from this Board an official letter of apology with specific language approved by this Friday, December 13 at noon for the process in which she was treated respect to any possible emotional or professional embarrassment, pain and suffering that she and her family experienced and that a copy of this letter be personally delivered to her daughter a Proviso West Student no later than this Friday, December 13 at noon and a copy of this letter be delivered to all Proviso West staff this Friday at noon and a copy of this letter be sent to all media publications that received previous communications regarding Dr. Abdullah before this Friday at noon and that this Board convene a special board meeting as soon as possible to address our school district personnel policy and procedures as well as the Superintendent’s contractual responsibilities for dealing with personnel matters especially related to communication with the public and media.
There was discussion among the Board and legal counsel as to the motion. Legal counsel clarified that the Board can only vote on items that are germane to the agenda.
It was moved by Mr. Alexander, seconded by Ms. Patterson to amend the previous motion to include only that Dr. Nia Abdullah be reinstated immediately as Principal of Proviso West High School tomorrow morning, December 11, 2019.
Upon roll call, the following members voted:
4 Ayes: Mr. Alexander, Ms. Grant, Ms. Patterson, Mr. Valtierrez
2 Nays: Mrs. Medina, Mr. Wagner
0 Abstain: None
1 Absent: Mrs. Kelly
MOTION PASSED
Mr. Alexander left the Board meeting at 10:51PM.
Student Achievement and School Innovation
Mrs. Medina provided an update on the SASI committee. Proviso East School Improvement Plan
Dr. Hardy presented for the Board an updated school improvement plan. He highlighted the future focus of the school improvement plan for the Board. He stated that Proviso East has 4 ambitious goals: to be designated as a “commendable school” on the Illinois school report card by 2023, to become a demonstration school for personalized competency-based education by 2023, to become a demonstration school for College and Career Readiness Academies by 2023, to increase the number of students who qualify for nominations as all conference student athletes annually. There was a discussion with the Board regarding the timeliness of the item. Dr. Hardy stated that the District administration requested some additions be made under goal 1. There was a discussion of the items listed under goal 1. Dr. Hardy thanked his team for the outstanding work that has been done, he stated that he gets to be the face of the work but he works with the best people on the planet.
It was moved by Ms. Grant, seconded by Ms. Medina that the Board of Education of Proviso Township High Schools District 209 accepts the Superintendent’s recommendation to approve the Proviso East School Improvement Plan as presented.
Upon roll call, the following members voted:
5 Ayes: Ms. Grant, Mrs. Medina, Ms. Patterson Mr. Valtierrez, Mr. Wagner
0 Nays: None
0 Abstain: None
2 Absent: Mr. Alexander, Mrs. Kelly
MOTION PASSED
PTHS D209 Report Card Presentation
Dr. Howard introduced Mr. Aguirre to present on the data at Proviso West. Mr. Aguirre stated that academic progress has had a 4-point increase, and there has a been a 15% increase in freshman on tract. He stated there was a slight decrease in graduation rate, however 241 students took AP classes and earned 30% or higher. He answered questions from the Board regarding the dip in math scores. However, he stated that students are making gains and progressing. Dr. Hardy next presented on the data for Proviso East. He stated that attendance is on of the areas of growth, however we still need to get to the target. He also stated that Proviso East needs to improve in participation. Dr. Hardy also clarified the competency-based grading to the traditional grading scale. Dr. Hardy answered questions from the Board regarding when the state compiles the numbers for participation and attendance. He stated that Proviso East received waivers which allow for extended school year versus deficiency in credits. Mr. Breisch next reviewed the data for PMSA, he stated that the attendance rate has been steady because the building is proactive, he also stated that the freshman on track is increasing. He stated that PMSA administration works with the families to ensure the students receive the best experience There was a discussion between Mr. Breisch, Dr. Karvelas and the Board regarding the transfer out rate and the 100% graduation rate at PMSA. Dr. Karvelas stated that they would provide additional information to the Board.
Policy Committee
Policy Manual Updates First Reading
It was moved by Ms. Grant, seconded by Ms. Medina that the Board of Education of Proviso Township High Schools District 209 accepts the Superintendent’s recommendation to approve the Policy Manual Updates First Reading as presented.
Upon roll call, the following members voted:
5 Ayes: Ms. Grant, Mrs. Medina, Ms. Patterson Mr. Valtierrez, Mr. Wagner
0 Nays: None
0 Abstain: None
2 Absent: Mr. Alexander, Mrs. Kelly
MOTION PASSED
Policy Manual Updates Second Reading
It was moved by Ms. Grant, seconded by Ms. Medina that the Board of Education of Proviso Township High Schools District 209 accepts the Superintendent’s recommendation to approve the Policy Manual Updates Second Reading as presented.
Upon roll call, the following members voted:
5 Ayes: Ms. Grant, Mrs. Medina, Ms. Patterson Mr. Valtierrez, Mr. Wagner
0 Nays: None
0 Abstain: None
2 Absent: Mr. Alexander, Mrs. Kelly
MOTION PASSED
Parent and Community Engagement Committee
Ms. Moreno and Ms. Vasquez presented an update on the Proviso Mobile App. Ms. Moreno stated that the District is focusing on the ability to publish once and that message is distributed everywhere. She stated that the District has been working to fix any errors in data housed at the District to ensure our message is received by everyone. Ms. Vasquez reviewed the personnel who have received training from Blackboard. They reviewed the sample groups and walked through how to install the app on their device. She stated that the launch date is Bring your Parent to School Day on February 4.
CONSENT AGENDA
It was moved by Ms. Medina, seconded by Ms. Grant that the Board of Education of Proviso Township High Schools District 209 accepts the Superintendent’s recommendation to approve the consent agenda as amended.
• Personnel Report and Addendum – Administration – Compensation Pay for Administrative Interim Positions
• Personnel Report and Addendum – Certified – Resignation Retirement
• Personnel Report and Addendum – Non-Certified –Employment
• Personnel Report and Addendum – Non-Certified –Transfers
• Personnel Report and Addendum – Non-Certified –Resignation Retirement
• Personnel Report and Addendum – Non-Certified – Other Employments – Proviso East
• Personnel Report and Addendum – Approved Leave
• Minutes
Upon roll call, the following members voted:
5 Ayes: Ms. Grant, Mrs. Medina, Ms. Patterson Mr. Valtierrez, Mr. Wagner
0 Nays: None
0 Abstain: None
2 Absent: Mr. Alexander, Mrs. Kelly
MOTION PASSED
OLD BUSINESS
Mr. Valtierrez inquired how the administration visit to the IBEW went, Dr. Howard stated that she would need to get back to him.
NEW BUSINESS
Ms. Grant requested that the Board does not use the auditorium in the future for meetings. She also requested that the December Board meeting be scheduled at Proviso West.
Mr. Valtierrez inquired about the District active shooter drills and protocols. He also asked if the District had received any information regarding the incident at McDonalds in Maywood after it occurred.
Mr. Wagner stated the Board would be going back into closed session.
EXECUTIVE SESSION
It was moved by Mrs. Medina and seconded by Mr. Valtierrez, that the Board of Education of the Proviso Township High Schools District 209 retire to executive session at approximately 12:15AM for the purpose of discussing items as listed on the agenda.
• The appointment, employments, compensation, discipline, performance, or dismissal of specific employees of the public body or legal counsel for the public body, including hearing testimony on a complaint lodged against an employee of the public body or against legal counsel for the public body to determine its validity. 5 ILCS 120/2(c)(1).
• Collective negotiating matters between the public body and its employees or their representatives, or deliberations concerning salary schedules for one or more classes of employees 5 ILCS 120/2(c) (2).
• Litigation, when an action against, affecting or on behalf of the particular public body has been filled and is pending before a court or administrative tribunal, or when the public body finds that an action is probable or imminent, in which case the basis for the finding shall be recorded and entered into the minutes of the closed meeting. 5 ILCS 120/2(c) (11).
Upon roll call, the following members voted:
5 Ayes: Ms. Grant, Mrs. Medina, Ms. Patterson Mr. Valtierrez, Mr. Wagner
0 Nays: None
0 Abstain: None
2 Absent: Mr. Alexander, Mrs. Kelly
MOTION PASSED
RECONVENE REGULAR MEETING
It was moved by Mr. Valtierrez, seconded by Ms. Grant, that the Board of Education of Proviso Township High Schools District 209 reconvene the Regular Meeting at approximately 1:44 AM.
Upon roll call, the following members voted:
5 Ayes: Ms. Grant, Mrs. Medina, Ms. Patterson Mr. Valtierrez, Mr. Wagner
0 Nays: None
0 Abstain: None
2 Absent: Mr. Alexander, Mrs. Kelly
MOTION PASSED
ADJOURN
It was moved by Mr. Wagner, seconded by Ms. Grant, that the Board of Education of Proviso Township High Schools District 209 be adjourned at approximately 1:45AM.
It was approved by voice vote 5 aye, 0 Nays, 0 Abstain, 2 absent. Adjourned 1:45 AM.
https://v3.boardbook.org/Public/PublicItemDownload.aspx?mk=50358665&fn=minutes.pdf
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