Proviso Township High Schools Board of Education met April 14.
Here is the minutes provided by the board:
Official Minutes of the Board of Education of Proviso Township High Schools District 209 at Proviso Math & Science Academy 8601 W Roosevelt Rd. Forest Park, IL 60130 on April 14, 2020 at 5:43PM.
PRESENT – Board Members:
Mr. Rodney Alexander
Ms. Amanda Grant
Mrs. Theresa L. Kelly (via Microsoft Teams)
Mr. Samuel Valtierrez
Mr. Ned Wagner
Mrs. Claudia Medina (via Microsoft Teams)
Ms. Arbdella “Della” Patterson
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 (via Microsoft Teams)
Dr. Bessie Karvelas, Principal, Proviso Mathematics and Science Academy
Dr. Patrick Hardy, Principal, Proviso East High School (via Microsoft Teams)
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 Ms. Grant and seconded by Mr. Valtierrez, that the Board of Education of the Proviso Township High Schools District 209 retire to executive session at approximately 5:44 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 1
• Student Disciplinary Cases 5 ILCS 120/2 (c) (9)
• 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).
RECONVENE REGULAR MEETING
It was moved by Mr. Valtierrez, seconded by Mrs. Medina, that the Board of Education of Proviso Township High Schools District 209 reconvene the Regular Meeting at approximately 8:51PM.
Upon roll call, the following members voted:
7 Ayes: Mr. Alexander, Ms. Grant, Mrs. Kelly, Mrs. Medina, Ms. Patterson,Mr. Wagner, Mr. Valtierrez
0 Nays: None
0 Abstain: None
0 Absent: None
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
Ms. Grant read the D209 Vision Statement into the record.
CITIZEN COMMENTS
• Ms. Grant read Jeremy Horn’s citizen comment into the record commenting out PTHS D209 support for the Proviso Community during this pandemic and the family of fallen Proviso West Panther.
REPORTS AND COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE BOARD PRESIDENT
Mr. Wagner commented on how proud he is of Proviso and their handling of the COVID-19 pandemic. He is proud of the accountability and adaptability of the students and staff; he is proud of the District response to providing meals for the community. He also stated that the District and Board will be discussing ways to celebrate the seniors to ensure their final year is celebrated.
REPORTS AND COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT OF SCHOOLS
Dr. Rodriguez stated for the Board that all communications, messaging and live streams are available on all school websites for the community. He also stated that the work being done by the District is exemplary as teachers and students learn to navigate virtual learning.
Dr. Karvelas reviewed for the Board the process of submitting innovation proposals to the Office of Innovation. She stated the project proposal was created to ensure that students are doing what they want to do. They received several proposals and they created a video to show what programs the kids are participating. She stated the department has provided some technology in the classrooms, requested programs for the library, and a foods club. She stated that the department of innovation is refining the tangible experience for students. Dr. Karvelas next gave a brief update on the academies, she stated that they are ready to begin the hiring process. She also stated that information on the courses in the academies were sent to the parents. Dr. Karvelas answered questions from the Board regarding coming up with how the department comes up with their innovation projects, she stated that she does not, the kids do.
Mr. Starck-King presented a brief update on the facility master plan. He briefly reviewed all of the ongoing projects in the District. He stated the architects have plans to accelerate all of the work in the District. There was a discussion regarding minority participation and ensuring that the foundation is occurring. The Board stated that they need to see the methodogly being done in choosing contractors to ensure the minority participation is being monitored. The Board also requested an update on the work being done by Perkins Will. There was also a discussion of how the District can possibly accommodate more cameras in the classrooms for e- learning in the future.
Dr. Howard provided a brief update for the Board on remote learning. She stated that the District had found out in March that remote learning was going to be a necessity in Illinois. She brought the team together and came up with a plan for excellence. Dr. Howard stated that it has been an incredible couple of weeks and thanked the Board for approving the plan. She also thanked the Board for approving the 1:1 initiative last year which ensured that remote learning was possible in Proviso. She stated that learning is now moving from a virtual posting of assignments and submitting them and moving to a more blended learning. She stated that there are challenges however there is a great student services team and a fantastic technology team to support the teaching and learning in the District. She stated that we are learning a lot as a District. Dr. Howard answered questions from the Board regarding ensuring a balance of work between classes. She stated that the District has provided the first virtual planning meeting and will use this topic on their upcoming planning meeting. She answered questions from the Board regarding content and requirements to ensure the students are ready when they return to school. She answered questions from the Board regarding reengaging students that are not participating and the steps the District is taking. The Board thanked Dr. Howard and her team for the planning and execution of the plan. They stated the PTHS D209 plan has helped other Districts prepare. Dr Rodriguez stated that PTHS D209 had the infrastructure to ensure the remote learning is occurring effective and efficiency. He also gave a brief update on the meals being picked up by the community. Dr. Rodriguez also stated that the District is anticipating an extension and continues to be fiscally responsible.
FOIA REPORT
Ms. Grant read the FOIA report into the record.
CONSENT AGENDA
It was moved by Ms. Medina, seconded by Mr. Alexander that the Board of Education of Proviso Township High Schools District 209 accepts the Superintendent’s recommendation to approve the consent agenda as amended.
• Bill List
• Policy Manual Updates First Reading
• Salary Adjustment
• Minutes
• FY21 Renewal Rates for Health and Dental Insurance
• PTAB
• West Furniture Purchase
• Community Service Graduation Requirement Waiver
• Personnel Report and Addendum – Administration – Employment
• Personnel Report and Addendum – Administration – Resignation-Retirement
• Personnel Report and Addendum – Certified – Resignation – Retirement
• Personnel Report and Addendum – Non-Certified Staff – Employment
• Personnel Report and Addendum – Non-Certified Staff – Resignation-RetirementTermination
• Personnel Report and Addendum - Approved Leave
Upon roll call, the following members voted:
7 Ayes: Mr. Alexander, Ms. Grant, Mrs. Kelly, Mrs. Medina, Ms. Patterson, Mr. Wagner, Mr. Valtierrez
0 Nays: None
0 Abstain: None
0 Absent: None
MOTION PASSED
SY21 BOARD MEETING DATES
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 SY21 Board Meeting Dates as presented.
During discussion, Dr. Rodriguez requested the June Board Meeting be changed to June 16, 2020 to ensure there are 30 days for the budget to be posted so that the Board of Education does not need to hold a special Board Meeting to approve the budget.
Ms. Grant amended her motion to amend the Board meeting dates changing the June board meeting date from June 9, 2020 to June 16, 2020, Mr. Alexander seconded the amended motion.
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 SY21 Board Meeting Dates as amended.
Upon roll call, the following members voted:
7 Ayes: Mr. Alexander, Ms. Grant, Mrs. Kelly, Mrs. Medina, Ms. Patterson, Mr. Wagner, Mr. Valtierrez
0 Nays: None
0 Abstain: None
0 Absent: None
MOTION PASSED
NOTICE TO REMEDY FOR CERTIFIED STAFF
It was moved by Mr. Alexander, seconded by Ms. Grant that the Board of Education of Proviso Township High Schools District 209 accepts the superintendent’s recommendation to approve the Resolution Authorizing the Issuance of a Notice to Constance Jesukaitis as discussed in Closed Session.
Upon roll call, the following members voted:
7 Ayes: Mr. Alexander, Ms. Grant, Mrs. Kelly, Mrs. Medina, Ms. Patterson, Mr. Wagner, Mr. Valtierrez
0 Nays: None
0 Abstain: None
0 Absent: None
MOTION PASSED
During an April Board meeting in even-numbered years, the Board considers organizational matters, such as, selecting individual members to fill offices with terms that expire.
Mr. Wagner stated the next item on the agenda was the annual election of officers. The first nominations would be for President.
President
Mr. Valtierrez nominated Ms. Patterson
Mrs. Kelly nominated Mr. Alexander
Ms. Medina nominated Mr. Wagner
Ms. Patterson declined her nomination for president
Mr. Alexander accepted the nomination
Upon roll call, the following members voted:
7 Ayes: Mr. Alexander, Ms. Grant, Mrs. Kelly, Mrs. Medina, Ms. Patterson, Mr. Wagner, Mr. Valtierrez
0 Nays: None
0 Abstain: None
0 Absent: None
MOTION PASSED
Vice-President
Mrs. Kelly nominated Ms. Patterson, Ms. Patterson declined the nomination
Mrs. Kelly nominated Mrs. Medina, Mrs. Medina accepted the nomination
Mr. Alexander nominated Ms. Grant, Ms. Grant declined the nomination
Secretary
Mrs. Kelly nominated Ms. Patterson, Ms. Patterson declined the nomination
Ms. Medina nominated Mr. Wagner, Mr. Wagner accepted the nomination
Upon roll call, the following members voted:
6 Ayes: Mr. Alexander, Mrs. Kelly, Mr. Wagner, Mr. Valtierrez, Ms. Grant, Ms. Medina
1 Nays: Ms. Patterson
0 Abstain: None
0 Absent: None
MOTION PASSED – Mrs. Medina, Vice President
Secretary
Mrs. Kelly nominated Ms. Patterson, Ms. Patterson declined the nomination
Ms. Medina nominated Mr. Wagner, Mr. Wagner accepted the nomination
Upon roll call, the following members voted:
2 Ayes: Ms. Medina, Mr. Valtierrez
4 Nays: Ms. Kelly, Ms. Patterson, Ms. Grant, Mr. Wagner
1 Abstain: Mr. Alexander
0 Absent: None
MOTION FAILED
Mr. Alexander nominated Ms. Grant, Ms. Grant accepted the nomination
Upon roll call, the following members voted:
6 Ayes: Mr. Alexander, Mrs. Kelly, Mr. Wagner, Mr. Valtierrez, Ms. Grant, Ms. Medina
1 Nays: Ms. Patterson
0 Abstain: None
0 Absent: None
MOTION PASSED – Ms. Grant, Secretary
Potential Disciplinary Action for Licensed Staff Member
It was moved by Mr. Valtierrez, seconded by Ms. Grant that the Board of Education of Proviso Township High Schools District 209 table the superintendent’s recommendation for potential disciplinary action for licensed staff member.
Upon roll call, the following members voted:
7 Ayes: Mr. Alexander, Ms. Grant, Mrs. Kelly, Mrs. Medina, Ms. Patterson, Mr. Wagner, Mr. Valtierrez
0 Nays: None
0 Abstain: None
0 Absent: None
MOTION TABLED
OLD BUSINESS
The Board thanked all the teachers and aides that are making e-learning work for the Proviso Students.
Ms. Grant thanked the District for feeding the Proviso Youth and stated that the district has served over 13,000 meals.
NEW BUSINESS
Ms. Grant stated that Cook county asking a high school student to design the new cook county flag and after being at the art shows there is a lot of talent in Proviso.
Mr. Valtierrez stated there is a community event, operation feed love doing an event on April 26 feeding meals 2-4 PM for the community.
Mr. Alexander wanted to honor his best friend Michelle Abernathy who passed away yesterday from COVID – 19. He stated this is a serious pandemic and to hold you loved ones close. He further stated that he has always declined the nomination for office but thanked everyone for their great examples and the board has a lot of work to do.
Mrs. Kelly expressed her condolences for several members of the community and stated that they are in her thoughts and prayers.
Mr. Wagner stated that he believes that the presidency is in a good hands, if you need anything know that he is available.
Dr. Rodriguez stated this is the last meeting for one of our administrators, Ms. Moreno. He wants to express his thanks for your hard work and dedication. Mrs. Kelly stated she will be truly missed; Mr. Alexander wished good luck and don’t forget about us.
EXECUTIVE SESSION
It was moved by Mr. Alexander and seconded by Ms. Grant, that the Board of Education of the Proviso Township High Schools District 209 retire to executive session at approximately 10:43PM 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:
7 Ayes: Mr. Alexander, Ms. Grant, Mrs. Kelly, Mrs. Medina, Ms. Patterson, Mr. Wagner, Mr. Valtierrez
0 Nays: None
0 Abstain: None
0 Absent: None
MOTION PASSED
RECONVENE REGULAR MEETING
It was moved by Ms. Grant, seconded by Mr. Alexander, that the Board of Education of Proviso Township High Schools District 209 reconvene the Regular Meeting at approximately 1:08 AM.
Upon roll call, the following members voted:
7 Ayes: Mr. Alexander, Ms. Grant, Mrs. Kelly, Mrs. Medina, Ms. Patterson, Mr. Wagner, Mr. Valtierrez
0 Nays: None
0 Abstain: None
0 Absent: None
MOTION PASSED
Potential Disciplinary Action for Licensed Staff Member
It was moved by Mr. Alexander, seconded by Ms. Grant that the Board of Education of Proviso Township High Schools District 209 approve the superintendent’s recommendation for potential disciplinary action for licensed staff member as discussed in closed session.
Upon roll call, the following members voted:
6 Ayes: Mr. Alexander, Mrs. Kelly, Mr. Wagner, Mr. Valtierrez, Ms. Grant, Ms. Medina
1 Nays: Ms. Patterson
0 Abstain: None
0 Absent: None
MOTION PASSED
ADJOURN
It was moved by Ms. Grant, seconded by Mr. Valtierrez, that the Board of Education of Proviso Township High Schools District 209 be adjourned at approximately 1:09 AM.
It was approved by voice vote 7 aye, 0 Nays, 0 Abstain, 0 absent.
Adjourned 1:09 AM.
https://v3.boardbook.org/Public/PublicItemDownload.aspx?mk=50371556&fn=minutes.pdf
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