Approved by the CharlotteMecklenburg Board of Education June 22, 2004 Regular Board Meeting

Charlotte, North Carolina

May 11, 2004

REGULAR MEETING OF THE CHARLOTTE-MECKLENBURG BOARD OF EDUCATION The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Board of Education held a Regular Board Meeting on May 11, 2004 at 6:13 p.m. in the Board Room of the Education Center. CMS TV Channel 3 televised the meeting. Present: Joe I. White, Jr., Chairperson; Kit Cramer, Vice Chairperson; Kaye McGarry, Member At Large; Larry Gauvreau (District 1); Vilma D. Leake (District 2); George Dunlap (District 3); Louise Woods (District 4); Molly Griffin (District 5); and B. Lee Kindberg (District 6) Absent:

There were no absences

Also present at the request of the Board were Dr. James L. Pughsley, Superintendent; Frances Haithcock, Associate Superintendent for Education Services; Greg Clemmer, Deputy Superintendent for Operations; other members of the Executive and Senior Staffs; Maurice Green, General Counsel to the Board; and Nancy Daughtridge, serving as Clerk to the Board. C AL L TO OR D ER A. Chairperson White called the meeting to order at 6:13 p.m. Chairperson White apologized for the delay of the meeting. He said the Board had been meeting with the Board of County Commissioners since 3:00 p.m. presenting the Charlotte-Mecklenburg School’s proposed 20042005 Budget request. Chairperson White announced the viewing audience may experience technical difficulties and this should be corrected soon. Chairperson White introduced Ashley Wheeler, an 8th grade student at Eastway Middle School, who led those present and the viewing audience in the Pledge of Allegiance. Ashley has been a positive role model for her peers this year. She has served on the Eastway basketball team, the yearbook staff, and is the girl’s soccer captain and goalie; she has made honor roll every quarter this year; and is an active member of her church, Providence Road Church of Christ. Following the pledge Ashley spoke to the May character trait of “hope.” Ashley said hope is the feeling that something desired is possible. She expressed concern for the violence in our city, state, country,

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and world. She said disrespect is the lack of hope and contributes to violence. Ashley said we must set an example for the next generation because hope brightens all our futures. Chairperson White introduced Ashley’s mother, Ingrid Shelton; principal, Terri Cockerham; Magnet Coordinator, Marlene Deal; and French teacher, Catherine Cloniger. Chairperson White stated he would like to revise the agenda as follows: 1. Add Item III. E. The nomination and vote for the District 2 representative to the Bond Oversight Committee. Upon motion by Ms. Leake, and seconded by Dr. Kindberg, the Board voted unanimously of those present to add agenda item III. E. Ms. Cramer and Ms. McGarry were absent as they were still meeting with the Board of County Commissioners. 2. Move item V.A. to item I. L. 1. Report from CMS Student Government Association on Honor Code 3. Move item I. L. 1. to item I. L. 2. Report on proposed revisions to Bond Projects Upon motion by Ms. Leake, and seconded by Ms. Woods, the Board voted unanimously of those present to move agenda items V.A. and I. L. 1. Ms. Cramer and Ms. McGarry were absent as they were still meeting with the Board of County Commissioners. Chairperson White recognized Boy Scout Troop #55 and troop leader Judge Hugh Lewis from Myers Park Presbyterian Church. The scout troop was in attendance as part of their requirement to earn a Communication, Citizenship, and Community Merit Badge. RECOGNI TION / INFORM ATION B. Recognition of Carolina Panthers Organization Internship Program Chairperson White called upon Ms. Griffin for the presentation. Ms. Griffin said the Board was pleased to recognize the Carolina Panthers Organization for the National Football League’s (NFL) High School Internship Program. This is the fifth year that CMS has participated in this program that supports the goals of the NFL by providing an opportunity for active players to have first-hand work experience at the high school level. Carolina Panther Interns commit to a six-week, twelvehour per week school experience working with student-athletes in coaching and training skills as well as life skill presentations in the classroom. Fifteen CMS high schools have participated in the program in the last five years. The NFL officials have stated, “The Carolina Panthers NFL High School Internship Program, in partnership with the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, has set the standard and established a model for other NFL clubs to follow in the future.” Ms. Griffin introduced Mark Richardson, President of the Carolina Panthers; Donnie Shell, Director of Player Relations; and Vicki Hamilton, CMS Athletic Director. Ms. Griffin invited Mr. Richardson for introductions and comments. Mr. Richardson thanked the Board and Dr. Pughsley for allowing them to participate again this year in this very beneficial program. It is not only beneficial for the students of CMS but also for the Panther players. Kemp Rasmussen, Panther Intern, has participated in this program for the past two years because he enjoyed it so much. Mr. Richardson said he personally tries to be involved with this program every year because it is very important to the Panthers, the organization, and to the Richardsons. He is very excited that this program is going to continue. He was happy to report the Carolina Panthers have more college graduates on their roster than any other NFL team. This organization is very proud of this and he knows that CMS, as educators, must be proud of it, too. This organization places a great deal of emphasis on education, not only

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for our young men but also making sure that they help our students and young people in our community to get an education. This is our fifth year and we have seen our young men benefit by this program. We have seen them grow and develop because they are learning and teaching at the same time. Mr. Richardson announced this Saturday the organization would have their Annual Carolina Panther Youth Camp at the Bank of America Stadium and they will host middle school students from NC and SC. Mr. Richardson introduced Mr. Shell who was a previous player for the Pittsburgh Steelers, has multiple Super Bowl rings, and who has been very active in this program. Mr. Shell said the organization appreciates the partnership and working with the school system. He is always very excited to go with Ms. Hamilton to visit the participants and players at the schools. He has been amazed to find that most of the CMS students, rather than ask him about football and technique, want to know how to get into college, what do they have to do, and what is it like. It is also exciting for him to see how the players themselves are transformed by working in this program. Because the players are encouraging the students by sharing their wisdom and knowledge, it makes our players want to live up to the standard they have set for the students. Mr. Shell stated they are looking forward to continuing the program again next year. Mr. Shell invited Ms. Hamilton to make comments and introduce the Panther Interns. Ms. Hamilton thanked Mr. Richardson and Mr. Shell for their kind comments. She stated this is a win-win situation and she is not sure who loves it more, the Panther Interns, our coaches, our principals, or the student athletes who have been associated with these players. Ms. Hamilton said the three gentlemen she was about to introduce commit to a six-week school experience in three of our high schools. She was pleased to introduce not only professional athletes but also very good men. She complimented the Panther organization for having these quality players in the business of football, students, and academics. Ms. Hamilton introduced the players representing the Carolina Panthers as follows: • •

•

Panther Intern Mike Seidman. Ms. Seidman is a graduate of UCLA and was an intern at Butler High School. The athletic director at Butler High School is Mike Newsome, the assistant coach is Steve Shaughnessy, and the principal is Joel Ritchie. Panther Intern Kemp Rasmussen. Mr. Rasmussen is a graduate of Indiana University and was an intern at Myers Park High School for two years. The athletic director at Myers Park High School is Greg Clewis, the head football coach is Jim Ruark, and the principal is Dr. Bill Anderson. Panther Intern Kindal Moorehead. Mr. Moorehead is a graduate of the University of Alabama and was an intern at West Mecklenburg High School. The athletic director at West Mecklenburg High School is John Yewcic, the head football coach is Rocky White, and the principal is Dr. Craig Witherspoon.

Ms. Hamilton invited the Panther Interns to comment on the program and their internship. Mr. Seidman thanked the Board and Dr. Pughsley for the program because it was a great experience for him personally and he had a wonderful time participating. He said as a football player you like to give your knowledge to future players and keep the sport growing. This program allowed him to do that. This internship, because football is not a life career and usually ends shortly, enabled him to see what it would be like to coach and work with students. Mr. Seidman said Coach Newsome was great to work with and he was very impressed with the control he has with the students and the respect the students have for him. Mr. Rasmussen thanked the Board for allowing him to speak about the program. He said this was his second year at Myers Park High School and he has really seen this team grow from the first year. Mr. Rasmussen said Coach Ruark has an excellent team and has really gotten it organized. Mr. Rasmussen would be interested, after his professional football career, to be a high school coach and teacher. Mr. Morehead thanked the Board for the recognition. He said as a football player, who one day would like to be a coach, this was a great experience for him. He was impressed with the quality of students at CMS and the fact that many of these young athletes excitedly asked him questions about how to get into college rather than

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about football. He said this is a great program and he hopes it continues. Ms. Hamilton said CMS is very proud of these three Carolina Panthers, the Panther organization, Mark Richardson, and we are very privileged to work with Donnie Shell. Greg Clemmer, Deputy Superintendent for Operations, and Ms. Hamilton look forward to working with Mr. Richardson and the Internship Program, and hope to bring more interns into the program next year. Ms. Hamilton thanked the Board for supporting athletics and the student athletes of CMS. She said they are students first, and as you can see from these young men, education is important. They are very well spoken, they have attended prestigious universities, and their business is on Sunday afternoon but in later years many of them want to go into the teaching/coaching profession. She hopes this is what the Internship Program will do. She thanked the principals that support the program. - Ms. Cramer and Ms. McGarry entered the meeting at this time. C. Recognition of National Police Officer Week Chairperson White called upon Mr. Dunlap for the presentation. Mr. Dunlap said, as a part of the police force for twenty-six years, he was honored to present this recognition. He said the Board was pleased to recognize May 9-15, 2004, as National Police Officer Week and May 15, 2004, as Peace Officers’ Memorial Day. Mr. Dunlap introduced the following representatives who courageously support Charlotte Mecklenburg County: • • • • • • • • •

Charlotte Police Department, Chief Darrel Stephens CMS School Law Enforcement Director, Ted Pearson Cornelius Police Department, Mark Cook Davidson Police Department, Lt. Amy Ensminger Huntersville Police Department, Chief Michael Kee Matthews Police Department, Major Carla Thompson Mecklenburg County Sheriff’s Office, Chief Deputy Wayne Shirley Mint Hill Police Department, Chief Brian Barnhardt Pineville Police Department, Lt. Wayne Embrey

Mr. Dunlap said the Board was pleased to salute the law enforcement agencies in Mecklenburg County for the role they play in safeguarding the rights and freedoms of the citizens of our community and for the vital public service they render for each of us. Additionally, it is an honor for us to recognize law enforcement officers who, through their courageous deeds, have made the ultimate sacrifice with their lives as they served our country, or have become disabled in the performance of their duty. Let us recognize and pay respect to the survivors of our fallen heroes. Mr. Dunlap read the resolution as follows: Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, National Police Week, May 9-15, 2004 Whereas, the Congress and President of the United States have designated May 15 as Peace Officers’ Memorial Day, and the week in which it falls as Police Week; and Whereas, the members of the law enforcement agencies of Mecklenburg County play an essential role in safeguarding the rights and freedoms of the citizens of Mecklenburg County; and Whereas, it is important that all citizens know and understand the duties, hazards, and sacrifices of their law enforcement agencies, and that members of our law enforcement agencies recognize their duty to serve the people by safeguarding life and property, by protecting them against violence or disorder, and by protecting the innocent against deception and the

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weak against oppression; and Whereas, the men and women of the law enforcement agencies of Mecklenburg County unceasingly provide a vital public service; Now, therefore, we, the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Board of Education, call upon all citizens of Mecklenburg County and educational organizations to observe the week of May 10 through May 15, 2004 designated as Police Week with commendations to police officers, past and present, who by their faithful and loyal devotion to their responsibilities have rendered a dedicated service to their communities and, in doing so, have established for themselves an enviable and enduring reputation for preserving the rights and security of all citizens. We further call upon all citizens of Mecklenburg County to observe May 15 as Peace Officers’ Memorial Day in honor of those law enforcement officers who, through their courageous deeds, have made the ultimate sacrifice in service to their community or have become disabled in the performance of duty, and let us recognize and pay respect to the survivors of our fallen heroes. Upon motion by Mr. Dunlap, and seconded by Ms. Leake, the Board voted unanimously to adopt the resolution proclaiming May 9-15, 2004, as National Police Officer Week and May 15, 2004, as Peace Officers’ Memorial Day. Mr. Dunlap said, on behalf of the Board of Education, we are very pleased that each and every day there are officers in the field serving and protecting the citizens not only throughout the community but also in our schools as well. And, as a result of that, our schools are some of the safest schools in this country. Mr. Dunlap said he appreciates the fact that each of these officers serve with dignity and integrity. - Chairperson White called upon Ms. Cramer to introduce ten international visitors from Belarus, Russia who were brought to Charlotte through the US Department of State’s Community Connections Program. Ms. Cramer said during their visit to Charlotte they would visit several schools and universities to meet with their professional counterparts. International House of Charlotte was selected for participation in this project and will provide a total immersion into the American educational system in order for these visitors to learn how the system functions. Ms. Cramer was honored to introduce the visitors as follows:          

Ms. Volha Dzerkachova, Director of College Preparatory Program Ms. Eleanora Furman, Assistant Principal at General Secondary School, Choreography Magnet Program Ms. Zhanna Marchuk, Deputy Principal at Social and Educational Center Ms. Iryna Marhun, Head of Production and Marketing Department at the National Institute for Education Center for Textbooks and Training Materials Ms. Halina Martynovich, Principal of Minsk Secondary School #131 Ms. Alexandra Pozniak, Deputy Principal of Minsk City Pedagogical High School Ms. Danuta Rusak, Principal at Dubovliany Secondary School Mr. Sergei Velikorodnov, Principal at Secondary School #166 Mr. Mikalai Zaprudski, Head of the Pedagogy Department, Academy of Postgraduate Education Ms. Inesa Zhehulovich, Deputy Principal, Complex of Belarus Academy of Music

D. Recognition of Regional Science Fair Winners Chairperson White called upon Dr. Kindberg to present the recognition. Dr. Kindberg said the Board was pleased to recognize the winners of the 2004 Regional Science Fair who were advancing to the state competition. These students worked outside of class on a topic they

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selected. They put together a display board of their work to present at the Science Fair at UNCCharlotte. This is the second year that UNC-Charlotte has hosted this competition and they will be hosting the 2008 International Competition. Dr. Kindberg said all students who participated, not just those advancing to the state level, are truly award winners! Dr. Kindberg recognized the students who were advancing to the state level as follows: • • • • • • • • • • •

Danielle Gallman, Harding University High School Nelson Hicks, Phillip O. Berry Academy of Technology Jerrica Petty, West Charlotte High School Brandi Boyce, West Charlotte High School Ashley Johnson and Fedora Philippeaux (team), Albemarle Road Middle School Kaylon Rorie, Northridge Middle School Alan Beasley, Villa Heights Academic Center Chris Salley, Providence Spring Elementary School Mike Royal, Providence Spring Elementary School Merritt McCully, Morehead Elementary School Tyra Pendergrass, Harding University High School, is a finalist again this year in the Intel International Science & Engineering Fair.

Dr. Kindberg said the Board was pleased to recognize these students, their respective schools, and their teachers for their accomplishments. Dr. Kindberg invited Merritt McCully, a second year winner, to speak about his project. Merritt reported his project was, “What makes turtles snap.” He entertained everyone with the results of how snapping turtles catch their prey. Merritt introduced his father, Scott McCully, Executive Director of Student Placement Services for CMS, and his principal, Kevin Paige. The students received a certificate of recognition. E. Recognition of Sigma Xi Outstanding Science Educator Award Recipients Chairperson White called upon Ms. Leake for the recognition. Ms. Leake said the Board was pleased to recognize five Charlotte-Mecklenburg science teachers as recipients of the Sigma Xi Outstanding Science Educator Award. The teachers were nominated by a peer teacher, administrator, or parent for their creativity and innovative science teaching abilities or their development of a school-community project involving science. Ms. Leake introduced the teachers as follows: • • • • •

Theresa Higgins, Steele Creek Elementary School, has taught for 32 years and serves as a mentor at her school Ronald Lowery, Thomasboro Elementary School, has taught for 5 years Jonathan Anderson, Ranson Middle School, has been teaching for 8 years Tanya Shank, Cochrane Middle School, has been teaching for 6 years, and has been selected to become a trainer by the International JASON Project Rochelle Gray, East Mecklenburg High School, has taught for 3 years

The Charlotte Area Science Network, a chapter of Sigma Xi, is dedicated to the advancement of science and engineering through outstanding programs and service delivered in a collegial and supportive environment. Sigma Xi awards grants annually to promising researchers, holds forums on critical issues of science and society, and sponsors a variety or programs in support of science and engineering, science education, science policy, and the public understanding of science. Ms. Leake said the Board was pleased tonight to recognize these outstanding educators as they enhance the science education of our children. Ms. Shank was invited to speak about the program.

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Ms. Shank thanked the Board for the recognition. She said as our students are achieving sometimes science is pushed aside but the science educators who were nominated have made a difference by incorporating language arts and math into the science curriculum and developed a hands on approach so that all CMS students can achieve. F. Recognition of student finalists in the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation Program Chairperson White called upon Mr. Gauvreau for the recognition. Mr. Gauvreau said the Board was pleased to recognize two outstanding Charlotte-Mecklenburg seniors as finalists for the CocaCola Scholars Foundation Program. Mr. Gauvreau introduced Angela Forbes from Vance High School and Stesha Doku from Myers Park High School. Angela and Stesha were selected from more than 200,000 nationwide entries and competed for regional and national scholarships. The Coca-Cola Scholars Program is one of the most recognized and respected corporate sponsored scholarship programs in the country. This is the 16th year of the program and more than 3,000 deserving students have received $24.8 million in college scholarships. Young people who are recognized for this honor demonstrate academic talent, leadership in school, and have a commitment to volunteer in leadership capacities in the community. The Coca-Cola corporation has always been focused on education and the Scholars Program is one of the key areas in which it is exercising that legacy of community support. Stesha’s school activities include the following: • • • • • • • • • • •

Student Tolerance and Non-Discrimination Club president French Club Cancer Awareness Project National Honor Society Leadership Forum vice president Interact Club president IB Student Council president Math and science tutor Excalibur National Science Honor Society Science Bowl Sustainable Charlotte Project

In addition, Stesha is a church acolyte, hospital volunteer, and designs web sites for non-profit organizations. Her special honors include Carolinas Carrousel Queen, Harvard Prize Book Award, and the Coca-Cola Scholars Program recipient. She is the daughter of Albert and Stella Doku and will attend Duke University. Angela’s school activities include the following: • • • • • • •

Key Club Grade Level Representative Spanish National Honor Society Senator for Student Council National Forensic League Honorary Member National Program of Best Friend’s Member 4.107 GPA and ranked 52 in her class of 462 Former JROTC Cadet Corps Commander

And, of course, she is a Coca-Cola Scholars Program recipient. Angela is the daughter of Rhonda Taylor and she has not made her final college decision at this time. Mr. Gauvreau said the Board was pleased to recognize these two young women for their

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accomplishments and for the honor they bring to themselves, their families, and our school system. Ms. Gauvreau invited Angela and Stesha to meet the Board members and presented them a certificate of recognition and a ‘coke.’ Ms. Leake announced that Stesha’s sister had graduated from Myers Park High School two years ago and is now attending Harvard University. G. Recognition of Ranson Middle School teacher as North Carolina Middle School Character Education Teacher of the Year Chairperson White called upon Ms. Cramer to present the recognition. Ms. Cramer said the Board was pleased to recognize Ms. Deborah Brown, a sixth grade educator at Ranson Middle School, as the winner of the North Carolina Middle School Character Education Teacher of the Year competition. The award, sponsored by the Kenan Institute for Ethics at Duke University, included a $3,000 personal prize for Ms. Brown and a $1,000 award for Ranson Middle School to be used for character education resource materials. Ms. Brown has been a CMS employee since August 2002. She required her sixth-grade students to live the meaning of “courtesy” at home and school for one week and write about it. This project weaved issues of character and ethics into the North Carolina Standard Course of Study goals and objectives for middle school students. Joining Ms. Brown was the principal of Ranson Middle School, Mr. Jerry Winkeljohn, and Dr. Cheryl Atkinson, regional superintendent for Ranson Middle School. Ms. Brown said she was thrilled to be recognized by the Board. She said this is a symbol of hope, and hope is the thread that weaves the spirit of the human condition together. Children need to know that aside from curriculum, the most important thing for them to learn is how to be good human beings and character teaches them that. She thanked the Board for the recognition. Ms. Cramer announced that Ms. Brown is also a graduate of Harvard University. Ms. Brown was invited to meet the Board and was presented a certificate of recognition. H. Recognition of April 2004 Building Services Quality Customer Service Maintenance Employee of the Month Chairperson White called upon Ms. McGarry to present the recognition. Ms. McGarry said the Board was pleased to recognize Mr. Marvin Reece as the Building Services Maintenance Employee of the Month for April 2004. Mr. Reece is a pest control operator in the Carpentry/Pest Control Department and has worked for Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools for ten years. Rick Norment, his supervisor, has stated that Mr. Reece works alone on a daily basis, making calls on what are usually emergency situations on an hourly basis; he constantly seeks not only the solution to the problem but also the cause to prevent a reoccurrence; he is a top-notch employee you can always count on to provide solutions to any pest control problem; and he is an asset to Building Services and a valued CMS employee as evidenced by the many phone calls and letters received praising the job he performs and the time that he spends with each customer to make them feel special. Ms. McGarry said the Board was pleased to recognize Mr. Marvin Reece as the April 2004 Building Services Quality Customer Service Maintenance Employee of the Month. Mr. Reece thanked Mr. Norment for being a great supervisor. Mr. Norment said Mr. Reece is an excellent technician; it was his honor to work with him; and he thanked the Board for his recognition. Mr. Reece was presented a monetary award, two certificates, and a plaque. I. Recognition of April 2004 Building Services Quality Customer Service Custodial Employee of the Month Chairperson White called upon Ms. Woods for the recognition. Ms. Woods said the Board was pleased to recognize Mr. John Hemphill as the Building Services Custodial Employee of the Month for April 2004. Mr. Hemphill is currently a custodian at Newell Elementary School and has been

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employed with CMS for fourteen years. His supervisor, Marvin McCauley, has stated that Mr. Hemphill is a gifted employee who manages his time wisely and goes above and beyond in his daily duties; all tasks are completed on time even when there is a reduction in staff; and he is always pleasant to students, parents and staff. Mr. McCauley feels Mr. Hemphill is a very deserving candidate for this honor. Ms. Woods said it was an honor for the Board to recognize Mr. John Hemphill as the April 2004 Building Services Quality Customer Service Custodial Employee of the Month. Mr. Hemphill thanked Building Services and their committee, the staff at Newell Elementary School, and his area leader, Mr. Marvin McCauley. Mr. Hemphill was presented a monetary award, two certificates, and a plaque. J. Recognition of April 2004 Bus Driver of the Month Chairperson White presented the recognition. Chairperson White said the Board was pleased to recognize Ms. Sharon Brown as the April 2004 Bus Driver of the Month. Ms. Brown has been a CMS bus driver for 4½ years and drives for students who attend Waddell High School and Morehead Elementary School. Her supervisor, Barry Wright, has stated that Ms. Brown’s dedication to the job and students she serves makes her an invaluable asset to CharlotteMecklenburg Schools; every transportation area needs a driver like Ms. Brown; her schools and students absolutely love her; and her dependability and trustworthiness make her an incredible asset to the Waddell Transportation Area. Ms. Brown has stated that driving a bus is more than a job to her – it is a calling. She loves the children that she sees each day and feels like she is a role model for them. She does not have discipline issues on her bus because she works very hard to diffuse any situation before it occurs. She believes children need respect and she treats each child as an individual. Chairperson White stated the Board was pleased to honor Ms. Sharon Brown as the April 2004 Bus Driver of the Month and she will be eligible to compete for Bus Driver of the Year. Ms. Brown stated that with only a few weeks left of school, please watch out for the red flashing lights. Mr. Wright said Ms. Brown has been a driver in his area for four years and has not missed one day from behind the wheel. He hopes, with EOGs starting next week, all CMS bus drivers will take into consideration the need for their buses to be on time so the students can get to school on time for that very important test. Ms. Brown was presented a monetary award and a certificate. K. Recognition of Staff Appreciation Week Chairperson White called upon Dr. Pughsley to present the recognition. Dr. Pughsley called upon Jerri Haigler, Executive Director for Public Information, for the presentation. Dr. Pughsley said there has been a great deal of celebrating taking place in the district for our staff. He hoped many of the posters of our outstanding CMS staff had been noticed. Ms. Haigler stated it was a pleasure and distinct honor to recognize Staff Appreciation Week. She recognized staff members who represent some of the various groups in the district that included Dot Cromwell, president of the NC Association of Educators for the Charlotte Chapter; Judy Kidd, president of Classroom Teacher’s Association; Fleta Windell, a PE teacher at Providence Springs Elementary School and a winner of the TIAA-CREF Leaders in Learning and Liberty Awards Program who recently become a celebrity in the CMS posters and billboards; Gloria Schwartz, a teacher at Matthews Elementary School who was recently named the 2004 Teacher of the Year from the Harris Foundation; and Dr. Daisy Walker, president of the Great Charlotte Alliance of Black School Educators. Ms. Haigler said it is very supportive to have these outstanding professionals standing behind you. Ms. Haigler talked about the exciting things happening in the district for Teacher and Staff Appreciation Week that was recognized as May 2nd thru 9th. These activities are for just one week but it provides a climate and a culture within the school district of saying “thank you” to our educators for what they do for us. There are over 14,000 employees in CMS who give of themselves daily to provide outstanding

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educational opportunities for our students. They go above and beyond from transporting students to school to instructing them in the classroom. They do a tremendous job for our students every day. Ms. Haigler said CMS has experienced a number of accomplishments and successes in the past year. These include CMS as a finalist for the Broad Foundation; US News and World Report recognizing CMS for student achievement and closing the achievement gap: Forbes.Com recognition of CMS as 7th for the Best Education in the Biggest Cities; and the national media attention received with ABC and CNN visiting CMS to report on our success stories. Ms. Haigler said all this recognition is because of these individuals and the many more in our school system who work very hard in the classrooms every day for our students. Some of our teachers have won national and international recognitions, have won grants and awards, and we have some teachers going to Third World Countries this summer to teach children. All this shows our teachers go above and beyond. Ms. Haigler said many of our students have received national attention as well such as our Coca-Cola Scholars and the young student who was recently on Broadway in the Lion King. Their success can be attributed to the support they received from their educators. Ms. Haigler said this recognition is to say “thank you” and honor them for what they have done for our children and this school system. Ms. Haigler said although this recognition is for a week we are asking the community to rally around our educators for the whole month of May and even the year. To recognize our teachers, CMS created posters and billboards that shows our community rallying around our teachers and lifting them up to elevate them as outstanding professionals. These include a teacher in a Time Warner truck being lifted up by Time Warner employees and posters spotlighting our bus drivers and cafeteria workers for what they do every day. These posters and billboards are throughout Mecklenburg County and hopefully they have been noticed. Posters and flyers were also mailed to the houses of worship and businesses and they were asked to help elevate and promote our professionals during the week. Last week, the Superintendent, Board members, and central office staff visited our schools to say “thank you” to teachers and staff for what they do. Ms. Haigler stated Ms. Brown, who was recognized tonight, was spotlighted in the Mecklenburg Neighbors last week and they will feature several of our professionals during the month of May. Ms. Haigler said the Time Warner celebration on May 6th was a gala event and a great opportunity to spotlight our teachers. On April 29th the Teacher of The Year was awarded with the support of the Harris Foundation and that was a great way to recognize all our nominees from all of our schools. The PTA presidents, our houses of worship, our school leadership teams, and our principals went above and beyond to recognize staff members. At Sedgefield Elementary School the principal brought in Dudley’s Beauty College and for two days staff were pampered and had an opportunity to have a facial and manicure. She also hosted a garden café for her teachers and invited them for lunch. Ms. Haigler stated CMS encouraged the principals to take the recognitions to the schoolhouse level also. Ms. Haigler stressed it is not just a week or a month but it is a culture and a climate in our school system. Ms. Haigler invited staff members to make comments. Ms. Cromwell said on behalf of the 2.7 million educators worldwide that she represents locally, they are 90% of the world population of educators. Ms. Cromwell thanked the Board for recognizing them for the accomplishments they make to education. Ms. Kidd invited everyone to participate in a celebration for teachers and staff on May 21st in Marshall Park. Dr. Walker thanked the Board for the recognition. Mr. Dunlap said this meeting has had the honor of having several respected people from the community in attendance and recognized Yvonne Mims Evans, Chief Superior Court Judge. L. Community Report 1.

(V.A.) Report from CMS Student Government Association on Honor Code

Chairperson White called upon Dr. Pughsley for the report. Dr. Pughsley said he had had the

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pleasure of working with a good representation of students from Charlotte-Mecklenburg during the past year. Dr. Pughsley had issued a challenge to these students and they have exceeded the expectations. Dr. Pughsley invited Julie Babb, Director of Character Development, to provide a background for the project in character education. Dr. Pughsley said the results of this challenge will be felt in CMS for years to come. Ms. Babb said as part of the Charlotte-Mecklenburg School’s vision we would like for the students to acquire the knowledge, skills, and values to be successful and productive as they leave CMS. Ms. Babb said the students from the CMS Association of Student Councils have developed those values. Ms. Babb said each of the high schools had representatives on this association to write an honor code for students. These students took character development seriously, especially the traits of responsibility and honesty. These students committed to making this a reality in the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools. Ms. Babb thanked Dr. Pughsley for inviting them to participate in this challenge and for his support. She also thanked Darlene Heater, Events Supervisor, who is their sponsor and supporter. Ms. Babb introduced Alex Foley, Butler High School; Ashley Crowder, West Mecklenburg High School; Phillip Bastian, Vance High School; and Brandon Jackson, Myers Park High School. Mr. Bastian said the CMS Association of Student Councils is made up of two students from each high school who meet at a District Student Council meeting each month to discuss issues that affect their school and meet with the Superintendent quarterly to discuss issues and actions to be taken. A recent issue was an honor code and the Superintendent challenged them to draft a code to be implemented in CMS. Mr. Foley explained why an honor code is needed in the high schools. He said an honor code is what they as a council decided to be the easiest way to extend character education into the high school environment. It is difficult to teach character in high school because of the competing factors. He said a higher sense of honesty, integrity, and a better high school environment was needed in all high schools and they felt the honor code would provide that. He said the honor code would promote true learning and a better high school climate. Many colleges hold honor to the highest degree and it is very important to focus on character education in the high school as the leaders for tomorrow are being developed. There is also an importance to develop this in the middle schools because students feel lost in high school due to the bridge between middle and high school. Ms. Crowder explained how the Council developed the honor code. They took into consideration suggestions from Dr. Pughsley that included to gain support from the schoolhouse and to realize the initiative must be student driven but supported by staff and administration. Teachers signed off on the idea and want an honor code because they want to help eliminate cheating by students. They considered ideas from a teenager’s point of view and included what they want to see and read. They decided to make it short, read well, and be to the point. The Honor Code under adoption reads as follows: As a __(school name and mascot)________I will: • • •

not cheat or help others cheat take pride in my school and how I represent it be responsible for my actions

I understand that violating this honor code compromises my self-respect. I will follow this honor code and help others to do the same. Signing here reflects my commitment. Mr. Jackson discussed ways the Council will publicize the honor code to include a press conference, posters, honor code stamps for teachers/offices, murals, videos, and statistics. The central message behind the marketing campaign will be “Do Not Cheat.” Mr. Jackson thanked the Board for allowing them to make this presentation.

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2.

Report on proposed revisions to Bond Projects

Chairperson White called upon Dr. Pughsley for the report. Dr. Pughsley invited Guy Chamberlain, Assistant Superintendent for Building Services, for the presentation. Dr. Pughsley stated this is a report on the activities for the re-evaluation of the capital projects. He reported there would be a Public Hearing conducted May 25th and the Board will vote on June 8th. Mr. Chamberlain reported on March 9th the Board resolved to have the Superintendent, staff, and the Bond Oversight Committee review capital projects to determine if there were opportunities for reallocation. The intent was for reallocation of projects that would provide seats in overcrowded areas of the county. This task has been reviewed, public input considered, and these are the recommendations for some reallocations. Mr. Chamberlain introduced the Bond Oversight Committee and said every member was at every meeting. They gave of their time selflessly, asked hard questions, had a good conscience about this, were extremely concerned about the distrust this might create, and are concerned that CMS does projects appropriately. Mr. Chamberlain introduced the members of the committee: Eric Davis, Norm Gundell, Paul Tuggle, Fred Warren, Ray Ardizzone, Chip Boorman, and Ken Harris who was not present. Mr. Chamberlain invited Chip Boorman to present the recommendations. Mr. Boorman reported the Committee put a lot of time and effort into the recommendations and they took their charge seriously. They attended Committee meetings, community meetings, spent time touring schools to review the projects, and met several times with Building Services. Mr. Boorman commended Mr. Chamberlain and his staff on the excellent job they did in answering their questions, making themselves available, and going above and beyond to provide the information requested. They looked at each project individually and considered how appropriate the scope was. Re-evaluation criteria considered included was the scope of the project appropriate; able to execute project in a timely manner; reviewed the critical needs of the schools; used good business sense; maintained a mix of growth and equity; was the recommendation consistent with the CIP; and what is the affect on the learning environment. Mr. Boorman discussed observations from the community meetings and school visits that included significant overcrowding in outlying areas of the county; needs of schools scheduled for a renovation are real; older schools in need of renovation are spread throughout the county and are not concentrated in the inner-city; lack of trust in CMS; and communities feel vested in past Bond campaigns. Mr. Boorman stated this presentation is being made with Building Services and they are not part of building services. This Committee is a completely independent body and each project was reviewed individually. Mr. Boorman said the unified Superintendent and Bond Oversight Committee recommendations were as follows: 1. Suspend the “design only” projects at Alexander, Alexander Graham, Sedgefield and Cochrane middle schools, Garinger and North Mecklenburg high schools, and Long Creek Elementary School for a total savings of $5,000,000. 2. Reduce the scope of the Berryhill Elementary School project limiting work to systems upgrades for a total savings of $6,000,000. 3. Reduce the scope of the Marie G. Davis replacement school from a 1,200 student capacity to a 750 student capacity middle school for a savings of $5,000,000. 4. Reduce the scope of the Randolph Middle School project limiting work to interior renovations, eliminating the additional component for a savings of $2,500,000. 5. Reduce the scope of the Reedy Creek Elementary School project, limiting work to the site improvements, HVAC replacements, and plumbing upgrades for a savings of $5,200,000. 6. Reduce the scope of the Sharon Elementary School project, limiting work to selected interior renovations, HVAC controls, and multipurpose room expansion for a savings of $5,000,000.

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Mr. Boorman stated the recommendations were taken very seriously and the Committee does not consider the recommendations as broken promises to the community. Each of the recommendations would provide each school community capacity and a greatly improved or renovated school. Some of the recommendations were made because the circumstances changed. The Committee feels they have made sound decisions and have freed up about $28.7 million for reallocation considerations. The Committee does not feel this amount of money should lose the trust of the community. 7. Reallocate the above identified savings to the following projects: Butler High School, 500 seat addition; Hopewell High School, 500 seat addition; and new Highland Creek Elementary School. Estimated cost $26,000,000. 8. Proceed as scheduled with the following projects: Albemarle Road, Clear Creek, Cotswold, Dilworth, Hickory Grove, Huntingtowne Farms, Oakdale, Tuckaseegee, and Winterfield elementary schools; Bailey Road, Carmel, Northeast, and Quail Hollow middle schools, Ardrey Kell and Mallard Creek high schools; and Midwood, Morgan, and Metro schools. 9. Seek a Bond Referendum in 2005. Mr. Boorman encouraged everyone to advocate for additional funding from the County Commissioners to provide for school improvements and build new schools. He stated with the projection of 3,700 new students for next year the problems would not get any better. Chairperson White thanked the Bond Oversight Committee for their good work. He reminded everyone that these are citizens, they are not politicians, they are not trying to get reelected, they do not get paid, they are working for the better interest of this community, and giving their time. This will generate different opinions. Chairperson White announced there would be a Public Hearing scheduled for May 25th and this will be voted on by the Board on June 8th. Upon motion by Ms. Cramer, and seconded by Ms. Griffin, to have Board members visit each of the schools on the list in a caravan format and to notify each school’s Leadership Team of the scheduled visit so they may have an opportunity to share their thoughts, a discussion followed. Ms. Woods asked does the visit to all the schools on the list include design only schools? Ms. Cramer asked that this be discussed. Chairperson White stated in his opinion it does not include the design only schools. Ms. McGarry asked could the motion be amended? Ms. Woods feels all schools on the list do include the design only schools. Ms. Cramer stated her original intention did not include the design only schools. Ms. Woods said when she seconded the motion she felt it included all the schools that were impacted and thinks it is important to include the design only schools. Ms. Griffin reported that she seconded the motion so Ms. Woods could not rescind her second. Mr. Dunlap does not know the need to do this but if the schools are going to be visited by the Board members it is important all the schools be visited to review how they will be affected. Ms. Leake asked what is the rationale for visiting these schools now because the Board members were to already have visited these schools and be aware of their conditions? Ms. Cramer stated the Bond Oversight Committee visited all the schools but she is not sure if all Board members had an opportunity to visit all the schools. She would like an opportunity to talk with the parents that are impacted and let them have an opportunity to share their thoughts. Ms. Leake stated CMS has held Public Hearings and as Board members we should be familiar with every school in the district. Ms. Cramer stated that because trust is an issue, the more the Board members could do, the better. Upon substitute motion by Ms. Leake, and seconded by Ms. Woods, that the Board visit all schools including the design only schools, a discussion followed. Ms. McGarry said she believes Ms. Cramer’s motion is valid if there are Board members who feel the need to visit the

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schools. Ms. McGarry stated she attended most of the Bond Oversight Committee meetings and watched their work. They have been very meticulous, posed many questions, went over every school project on the list thoroughly, and she does not see a need to visit each school. This was an advisory committee that the Board chose to look into this project. If a Board member feels they must visit a school she is not opposed to that but there is no need to go to every school on the list again. She thanked the Bond Oversight Committee for the work they have done and noted they went above and beyond the call of duty and, by asking questions on both sides, they have made this recommendation. Ms. Woods said she honors the Bond Oversight Committee’s work and feels they did a tremendous job but they did not visit the design only projects and talk with those communities about the trust issue related to taking those critical need projects off the list. She feels it is important the Board visit those schools. She has been to most of them but would go again with the Board. Ms. Griffin stated the difference in the visit now is because this is the first time that these schools realize that they have been recommended for change. They now know their project has been or could be eliminated or changed. Ms. Griffin feels it is important that the Board visit the schools and hear from the School Leadership Teams to hear how they feel about the specific recommendation. Chairperson White stated the Board would vote on the motion that would provide an opportunity for Board members to visit the schools at their discretion. The Board voted 3 to 6 against the motion for each Board member at their discretion to visit each school on the list of recommendations by the Bond Oversight Committee. Ms. Leake, Mr. Dunlap, and Ms. Woods voted in favor of the motion. Mr. White, Ms. Cramer, Ms. McGarry, Mr. Gauvreau, Dr. Kindberg, and Ms. Griffin were opposed. The Board voted 4 to 5 against the motion to have Board members visit each of the schools on the list in a caravan format and to notify each School Leadership Team of the scheduled visit so they may have an opportunity to share their thoughts. Mr. White, Ms. Cramer, Ms. Griffin, and Dr. Kindberg voted in favor of the motion. Ms. McGarry, Mr. Gauvreau, Ms. Leake, Mr. Dunlap, and Ms. Woods were opposed. Mr. Dunlap thanked the Bond Oversight Committee for their diligent work. Ms. Leake commended the Bond Oversight Committee. She talked about the Berryhill Elementary School project and encouraged the Board to do the right thing to help maintain stability for the Berryhill community. Ms. Leake talked about the changes recommended for Marie G. Davis Middle School and reported the Southside Apartments are renovating 114 units and wanted to ensure the increased attendance this will generate would be considered in the future plans for that school. This community needs the support of a school that was promised to them with an adequate facility that will seat growth. Mr. Gauvreau asked for clarification on the Marie G. Davis Middle School project and asked with the recommendation of this facility being a 750-seat facility, with schools seats being suggested at $19,000, how does this map to $5 million. Mr. Davis stated this facility would be built as a 1,200seat core. The most costly piece of a school building is the core which is the gymnasium, cafeteria, and media center. A full sized middle school is to be built, absent 450-seats, will allow us in the future with a very simple project to take that school up to the current baseline standards. Mr. Gauvreau stated the report is bogus and questioned whether the report reflects independent views because the recommendations are based upon information received from Building Services and staff which is school district data. Chairperson White thanked the Bond Oversight Committee for their report for the good of the community. II. REQUESTS FROM THE PUBLIC Karen Chien is the president of the PTA at Barringer Academic Center and she expressed their concern for the critical issues of how test scores are reported and differentiation between the

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Magnet Program and Learning Immersion Program, and the overall challenges of Magnets. She would like the Magnet schools, both partial and full, to come together because it appears there are specific challenges. They would like to have these addressed and see how the Magnets are going to continue to thrive within the environment of CMS. Ms. Chien thanked the Board for their continued support for the Talent Development, Horizon, and Learning Immersion Programs. She stated in this era of No Child Left Behind, CMS is actually making sure no one in these groups is left behind. Betty McCain represented Links, Inc., and their objective is to spearhead initiatives in education, health, fine arts, and international understanding. She thanked the Board for their support to Dr. Pughsley as he discharges his responsibilities. This group salutes and supports Dr. Pughsley, his vision, and the initiatives relative to public school education and CMS for all children. They also appreciate his support to staff members who are trained, nurtured, and mentored by competent, caring, and dedicated professionals. Ms. McCain talked about the projects they have participated in with CMS that included tutoring, public speaking contests, judging science projects, working with in-school scouting for special education of students, and taking students to UNCC for International Day Celebration. They have learned a lot working with the students and their teachers and others in the school that helps them each day. She thanked Dr. Pughsley and his staff for embracing their efforts and participation in activities in CMS. She noted that Dr. Pughsley is working hard to make the education of our students successful in CMS. Terana Harris is a parent of a student at Paw Creek Elementary School and expressed disappointment about the waiting process for IEP testing for Exceptional Children. This test shows if there is a learning disability. This is an issue for her because her child may be retained because he has not been tested. Dr. Pughsley asked Greg Clemmer, Deputy Superintendent for Operations, to speak with Ms. Harris. Nancy Stroud represented the Links, Inc., and expressed their concerns as citizens and taxpayers. They are disturbed about the Board’s consideration for delaying several capital projects for renovations and/or replacements to accommodate growth. Many of these projects are long overdue. She asked the Board, because many of them ran on a platform of restoring trust, to please utilize seats before using Bonds to create new ones, do not change the plans for how the previously approved Bonds will be spent, renovate those schools, ask for needed dollars for new construction for growth, and investigate alternative funding streams. These are the efforts that will encourage them to support the Bonds. Tom Myrick is the Chair of the School Leadership Team at Barringer Academic Center and expressed concern for the growing challenges faced by Magnet schools. These challenges are causing them to spend more time and money to market their schools to perspective new students. A major attraction to these schools from parents is the test scores that are published in the newspaper. Barringer is now a partial magnet with three distinct programs (Learning Immersion, Talent Development, and Horizon) and the blended scores of this school are much lower than when it was a full magnet. This misleads parents. They would prefer that each program’s test score be shown separately. If this cannot happen, please consider noting the test score with an asterisk to footnote that it is an average score of more than one program and please contact the school for the program’s score. This will help schools compete for top students on equal footing with the less diverse schools. Mary Short talked about a personal issue she was having with a neighbor and the involvement of a student on a CMS school bus.

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John Minter represented Citizens in the Pursuit of Justice and himself. He will soon have three generations of students attending the inner-city schools of CMS. He understands growth, the need for new seats in the suburbs, and that crowded schools are uncomfortable and unsafe. He applauded the thinking of the members of the Bond Oversight Committee who were aware of an issue called trust. He said trust is one of the few things that can bond a community together. He reminded the Board of the case of Brown vs. the Board of Education and said some of the same mistakes and decisions that were made then are being made now. He asked the Board to not redirect the Bond monies and gave reasons to support his position. He asked the Board to bring the schools up to standard. III. ACTION I TEMS A. Recommend approval of appointment of administrative personnel Chairperson White called upon Dr. Pughsley for the appointments. Dr. Pughsley stated he had three appointments to recommend in the reorganization structure for the district. Dr. Pughsley said the recommended adjustments would flatten the organization and be effective May 12th. Included in the reorganization is that the position of Assistant Superintendent for Planning and Development will be eliminated and the units of this department will be assigned to other departments to create a degree of consolidation. The changes will streamline central office management and increase efficiency, coordination, and communication. The reorganization will affect Planning and Development, technology, inventory, Strategic Partnerships, and the CMS Foundation. Accompanying these changes will be title changes of two departments. Instructional Accountability will be changed to Assessment, Planning, and Technology Support, and Strategic Partnerships will be changed to CMS Foundation and Strategic Partnerships. Dr. Pughsley reported the changes and recommendations do create a cost savings overall for CSM. Dr. Pughsley made the following recommendations for approval:  Mike Raible as Executive Director of Facilities Planning. Mr. Raible has a Certificate of Professional Practice, University of Cincinnati, and a Bachelor of Architecture, University of Cincinnati. Mr. Raible formerly served as Facilities Architect for CMS.  Deborah A. Antshel as Executive Director, CMS Foundation and Strategic Partnerships. Ms. Antshel has a Masters of Urban Administration and a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology, University of North Carolina-Charlotte. Ms. Antshel is presently the Director of the Office of Strategic Partnerships.  Darlene Heater as Director of Strategic Partnerships. Ms. Heater has a Bachelor of Science in Business and Hospitality Management, Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio. Ms. Heater is presently Supervisor of Special Events. Upon motion by Mr. Dunlap, and seconded by Ms. Leake, to approve the Superintendent’s recommendations for appointments, a discussion followed. Ms. McGarry asked Dr. Pughsley why the position for the CMS Foundation was within the CMS organization because she understood the Foundation was separate from CMS. Dr. Pughsley reported the Board approved the Foundation and a Service Agreement and this was consistent with that guideline. He noted the Foundation does have its own governing body and will act independently but will act in a complimentary fashion with CMS. The goals of the Foundation will focus on the goals of the district with the priority one being teaching excellence, quality teachers, and providing an alternative funding stream for that purpose. Ms. McGarry asked for information on how the Foundation was set up. Dr. Pughsley reported the minutes were available as well as other action taken and requested the Clerk provide this information to Ms. McGarry as soon as possible. Mr. Dunlap stated it is a great opportunity to witness the appointment of such qualified people. He has been

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very impressed with their professionalism and how well they do their job. Mr. Dunlap feels the Board and the community should say thank you to Dr. Pughsley for being able to retain the quality of staff that CMS has and to reward those people who provide a valuable service to our community. Mr. Gauvreau stated he was opposed to the appointments. He agreed with Mr. Dunlap that Ms. Antshel, Ms. Heater, and Mr. Raible (although he did not know him) were top-flight people. Mr. Gauvreau opposes this because he feels there is more to the reorganization than was presented. He stated he was opposed to the creation of the Foundation originally. With this approval, CMS will have an employee at an executive level position that is managing the interests of fund raising for a non-profit agency that CMS built. He feels the way the reorganization was structured will create a domino effect. He feels the Superintendent should have the ability to do these things but because he feels this is wrong, he will not support it. Mr. Dunlap stated it was important to understand the relationship of these individuals and the benefit to this community. He feels people had the right to oppose the Foundation but the people of the community stand to benefit greatly from the Foundation. This is no different from a school district that has a grant writer who seeks funds to support the educational needs of the students. It is incumbent upon this Board to have qualified people who have established relationships with the corporate community and others who are willing to fund teacher initiatives that directly impact student achievement. Why would someone be opposed to doing something in their community that affects outcomes of students? This Board has the responsibility of educating children and must take advantage of the opportunities to enhance student achievement. It is important to see the direct benefit this has on our ability to deliver a sound education to the students in this system. Ms. Leake agreed with Mr. Dunlap. This reminds her of Central Piedmont Community College and its program to solicit funds from the private sector and to raise funds for its institution. This is what this foundation is doing. As a Board that is elected and not appointed she hopes this will be supported. Many institutions have a means of raising funds to support their school and CMS needs to do the same kinds of things. Mr. Gauvreau stated it is important that the public knows and this is why he is opposing all three appointments, it does not seem “square” to him to now have an Assessment Planning and Technical Support Executive who is Dr. Agruso and who reports directly to Dr. Pughsley and yet we have Student Assignment Planning reporting to Dr. Agruso, and then we have the Facility change going through Mr. Clemmer and then to Dr. Pughsley. This organization should be narrowing those two groups together because that is closer to the problems we are all arguing about. These are now separated and should be together. This does not make sense to him. Dr. Pughsley stated there was a difference of opinion and he respects Mr. Gauvreau’s opinion. Dr. Pughsley stated he had been charged with the operation of the district and this is the decision that he has made. Chairperson White commended Dr. Pughsley’s decision on the appointments and felt they were very wise. He noted it was very important to have Mike Raible to manage planning and feels it will be a unique opportunity to help build a relationship with BOCC and City Council. The Board voted 8 to 1 to approve the Superintendent’s recommendations for appointments. Mr. White, Ms. Cramer, Ms. McGarry, Ms. Leake, Mr. Dunlap, Ms. Woods, Ms. Griffin, and Dr. Kindberg were in favor of the motion. Mr. Gauvreau was opposed. B. Recommend approval of two citizen appointments to the Central Piedmont Community College Board of Trustees Chairperson White reported this is to approve two citizen appointments. One was to fulfill the unexpired term to June 30, 2006 and the second will be to fulfill a term ending on June 30, 2004 that will expire June 30, 2008. The second appointment would be either a reappointment of the person currently in that position or an election of someone else to that position. Mr. Green, General Council, suggested that the nominations be separated if there is a person fulfilling an un-expired term.

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Ms. Cramer nominated Jane Cooper. Ms. Leake nominated Malachi Green. Upon motion by Dr. Kindberg, and seconded by Ms. Griffin, the nominations were closed. The Board voted 8 to 1 to appoint Jane Cooper to fulfill the un-expired term to June 30, 2006. Mr. White, Ms. Cramer, Ms. McGarry, Mr. Gauvreau, Mr. Dunlap, Ms. Woods, Ms. Griffin, and Dr. Kindberg voted in favor of the appointment. Ms. Leake opposed the appointment. The Board voted 1 to 8 to appoint Malachi Green to fulfill the un-expired term to June 30, 2006. Ms. Leake voted in favor of the appointment. Mr. White, Ms. Cramer, Ms. McGarry, Mr. Gauvreau, Mr. Dunlap, Ms. Woods, Ms. Griffin, and Dr. Kindberg opposed the appointment. Jane Cooper was appointed to the Central Piedmont Community College Board of Trustees, term to expired June 30, 2006. Mr. Dunlap nominated Georgia Lewis as a reappointment to the seat. Upon motion by Dr. Kindberg to close the nominations, the motion was seconded by Mr. Dunlap. The Board voted 8 to 1 reappoint Georgia Lewis to fulfill the term ending on June 30, 2008. Mr. White, Ms. Cramer, Ms. McGarry, Mr. Gauvreau, Mr. Dunlap, Ms. Woods, Ms. Griffin, and Dr. Kindberg voted in favor of the reappointment. Ms. Leake opposed the reappointment. C.

Recommend approval of student assignment boundary change Chairperson White called upon Dr. Pughsley for the report. Dr. Pughsley invited Donna Bell, Executive Director Planning Services, to present the recommendation. Ms. Bell reported the Planning staff had reviewed the development of the Buckleigh Subdivision in northeast Mecklenburg County. Based upon the impact this subdivision will have on the elementary schools in that area, staff is recommending changing the home school area for this subdivision from Reedy Creek Elementary School to Joseph W. Grier Elementary School. This will assist the children that will be generated from the subdivision and also relieve the overcrowding conditions at Reedy Creek. Currently no students reside in this development but according to Centex, the developer, the time-line is approximately 3 to 3 ½ years on the build out. The rezoning application is for approximately 500 homes with a projection of 216 elementary students from this subdivision. Staff feels Joseph W. Grier Elementary School has the capacity and will be much better able to handle the additional population at that point in time. This will not effect a home school change for middle or high schools which at this time are Northridge Middle and Independence High schools. Middle and high school are the same for both Reedy Creek and Joseph W. Grier elementary schools. Upon motion by Mr. Dunlap, and seconded by Dr. Kindberg, the Board voted unanimously to approve the Student Assignment Boundary changes for Reedy Creek and J. W. Grier elementary schools.

D. Recommend approval of proposed Board of Education Bylaws and other Board of Education Policies Chairperson White called upon Dr. Pughsley for the approval item. Dr. Pughsley called upon Dr. Kindberg to present the recommendations. Dr. Kindberg stated under consideration were proposed revisions to nineteen bylaws and related policies. Dr. Kindberg reported the bylaws were

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previously presented to the Board and an opportunity for public comment and a public hearing had been provided. Dr. Kindberg reported the Policy Committee had performed extensive work on the revisions and she thanked the Legal Department for their effort in bringing them up to date. Dr. Kindberg stated the Policy Committee recommends that the Board approve the proposed revisions to the Bylaws as presented with the exception of Policy BDF (Board Advisory Committees/BoardApproved Groups) because an amendment will be proposed based upon the Chair’s request to the Policy Committee to reconsider one factor. Upon motion by Dr. Kindberg, and seconded by Ms. Griffin, to approve the proposed revisions to the Bylaws and Policies with the exception of Policy BDF, a discussion followed. Mr. Gauvreau stated he would like to make a change to Policy BEC and BEDH and they were included in the exception to the motion. Ms. Leake stated she had questions on BDB, BDD, and BDE. Ms. Leake asked for BDB (Board Officers) what are the minor clarifications regarding election of the Vice Chairperson? Mr. Green, General Counsel, reported there is a change to the last sentence of that Bylaw that deals with Vice Chairperson. It adds in a situation where the Chairperson is disqualified or otherwise unable to finish his term, the Vice Chairperson will assume the office of the Chairperson for the balance of the term. Added to this was… and a new Vice Chairperson will be elected for the balance of that term. Ms. Leake asked for clarification on BDD (Superintendent Board Relations), on page 1 to make consistent with the statute regarding nonBoard removal of the Superintendent. Mr. Green stated BDD as it is currently written provides that the Board has the sole responsibility for employing the Superintendent. That is generally true, however, there is a statute that will allow the State Board of Education to actually remove the Superintendent in a situation where you have a certain number of schools that are considered low performing schools as declared under the ABCs Program. This has been changed to say… except as otherwise permitted by law the Board has the sole responsibility for employing the Superintendent. Ms. Leake asked for BDE (Board Committees) to clarify participation by Board of Education members who are not members of a given committee. Mr. Green stated Policy BDE as currently written does not discuss whether and how Board members who are not on Board committees for example, the Policy Committee or the Curriculum Committee, can participate in meetings. The Policy Committee determined it was important to put into the Policy how those people would be allowed to participate. It provides that all Board members who are not appointed to a particular committee are permitted to attend and participate in those discussions of those committee meetings, however, they are not entitled to vote. It also provides that only members of the Board who are appointed to the committee are entitled to vote and only those members are considered when determining a quorum is present at a meeting. It puts into words what is currently in practice. Ms. McGarry asked under BEA (Regular Board Meetings) number 9, shall hold regular action meetings on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month, is it required that the Board meet twice each month? Mr. Green stated the Policy indicates when regularly scheduled Board meetings would happen, however, this Board, for whatever reason, can determine that there need not be a meeting, can vote that there not be a meeting, or if there is an emergency or some other situation it does not make it mandatory. The Board voted unanimously to approve the proposed revisions to the Bylaws and Policies with the exception of Policy BDF, BEC, and BEDH. A discussion followed on Policy BEC (Closed Sessions/Open Meetings). Mr. Gauvreau stated the last sentence in Policy BEC reads… minutes or a general account of the closed session will be made and may be withheld from public inspection. Mr. Gauvreau proposed to remove what was just added ‘or general account’ and asked that it read… minutes of the closed session will be made and may be withheld from public inspection. Mr. Gauvreau stated he would prefer to have closed sessions taped and he does not believe a general account would be adequate documentation. He

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would prefer to have closed minutes typed in a formal format and in detail. Mr. Gauvreau said he would like to amend Policy BEC to say minutes of the closed session and strike the wording that says ‘or a general account’ from the last sentence. Mr. Green asked to clarify the terminology. Mr. Green said this terminology comes from the statute that governs closed sessions and there is a distinction between minutes and a general account. Minutes are when action is taken you would record who made the motion, who seconded it, and what action was taken. A general account actually goes further than minutes because it provides what was the discussion of the closed session even if there were no actions taken. This language was intended to more closely track what the statute provided and this is why he made the recommendation and the Policy Committee made the recommendation as well. Mr. Gauvreau stated perhaps it should read… minutes and a general account. His concern for this is, in his view especially on certain issues, the Board does not take detailed enough minutes or a general account. He would like the Board to be more open in that regard. He does not like the terminology ‘or general account’ here. He feels there needs to be some sunlight on some of the Board discussions. His purpose is to give a more detailed record. Mr. Gauvreau asked are the minutes being taken for this meeting, minutes or a general account? Mr. Green reported they are both. Upon substitute motion by Mr. Gauvreau, and seconded by Ms. Woods, to recommend that Policy BEC change the word ‘or’ to ‘and’ so the sentence would read… minutes and a general account, a discussion followed. Mr. Dunlap referenced that a general account was more information than the Board typically would take in a closed session. Some of the details of those discussions cannot be made open to the public because of the nature of the information discussed in closed sessions. As it relates to minutes itself, a general account of what was discussed in a closed session would report any particular action that the Board takes. This is a part of the general account. The question is whether we take full minutes such as the Regular Board Minutes versus what we have done in dealing with the scope of the discussion and any action that is taken. Ms. Woods stated she did second it but asked Mr. Green to clarify the difference between minutes and a general account and asked did he see any legal problems with the motion? Mr. Green reported the minutes and the general account need to be sufficient to indicate what action was taken in the closed session and the general account needs to be sufficient so that people who are not in the closed session, who may later have an opportunity to review the minutes, will have some understanding of what happened in the closed session. Mr. Green reported the North Carolina Court of Appeals has held that a general account can be very limited and meet the intent of the statute. Mr. Green stated if there is not action taken in a closed session there are no minutes. Mr. Green said there was no problem in changing the word ‘or’ to ‘and’ because we still have to follow what the law of North Carolina requires for recording what happens in a closed session regardless of what our Bylaws say. Mr. Gauvreau stated we need to change the word to ‘and’ and the same minutes and record needs to be produced in closed session that has been done in the Regular Board Meetings, even though the record may not be divulged to anyone other than the Board itself. This record is critical to our decision making process. Chairperson White asked Mr. Green if he had reviewed the Policy Committee’s recommendation from a legal point of view? Mr. Green stated it had been legally reviewed and met with the requirements. The Board voted 2 to 7 against the substitute motion. Ms. Woods and Mr. Gauvreau voted in favor of the substitute motion. Mr. White, Ms. Cramer, Ms. McGarry, Ms. Leake, Mr. Dunlap, Ms. Griffin, and Dr. Kindberg were opposed. The Board voted 8 to 1 to approve the proposed revisions to Policy BEC. Mr. White, Ms. Cramer, Ms. McGarry, Ms. Leake, Mr. Dunlap, Ms. Woods, Ms. Griffin, and Dr. Kindberg voted in favor of the motion. Mr. Gauvreau was opposed. A discussion followed on Policy BEDH (Public Participation in Board Meetings). Mr. Gauvreau

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pointed out the word ‘speak’ should read ‘speaker. Mr. Gauvreau said the new section 2 reads, When an opportunity provides for public comment has been designated for specific purpose or topic the Chair may restrict the opportunity to speak or address the Board if the speaker raises issues that are different from those the speaker indicated he or she would address. Mr. Gauvreau sees no merit in this item and would like to have it removed from the Policy. Upon amendment by Mr. Gauvreau, and seconded by Mr. Dunlap, to remove the last sentence from Policy BEDH section 2 that reads… When an opportunity provides for public comment has been designated for specific purpose or topic the Chair may restrict the opportunity to speak or address the Board if the speaker raises issues that are different from those the speaker indicated he or she would address, a discussion followed. Dr. Kindberg stated the Committee felt the Chair needed to be authorized to stop or redirect speakers who were not addressing the particular issue or the purpose of the public hearing. Mr. Dunlap reported he opposed this in the Policy Committee. Mr. Dunlap feels the public should be able to address their concerns and believes this is against the First Amendment of Freedom of Speech. Ms. Griffin asked for clarification of the terminology public comment? Mr. Green stated it was referring to public comment on a specific topic. Mr. Green felt better language could be utilized to clarify the Policy Committee’s intent. Dr. Kindberg proposed some suggested language for clarification. Mr. Gauvreau stated he would like the sentenced removed. Mr. Green stated the amendment could be amended. Upon amendment to the amendment by Dr. Kindberg, and seconded by Mr. Dunlap, to add ‘er’ to the word speak of the first line of section 2 and in addition to change the last sentence to read… When opportunity provided for public comment has been designated for a specific purpose or topic the Chair may restrict the opportunity of a speaker to address the Board if the speaker raises issues that are different from those designated for specific purpose or topic. The Board voted 2 to 7 against the amendment to strike the last sentence from the Policy BEDH section 2. Mr. Gauvreau and Mr. Dunlap voted in favor of the amendment. Mr. White, Ms. Cramer, Ms. McGarry, Ms. Leake, Ms. Woods, Ms. Griffin, and Dr. Kindberg were opposed. The Board voted 8 to 1 to approve the proposed revision to Policy BEDH with an amendment to add ‘er’ to the work speak in the first line of section 2 and change the last sentence of section 2 to read … When opportunity provided for public comment has been designated for a specific purpose or topic the Chair may restrict the opportunity of a speaker to address the Board if the speaker raises issues that are different from those designated for that specific purpose or topic. Mr. White, Ms. Cramer, Ms. McGarry, Ms. Leake, Mr. Dunlap, Ms. Woods, Ms. Griffin, and Dr. Kindberg voted in favor of the amendment to the amendment. Mr. Gauvreau was opposed. A discussion on BDF (Board Advisory Committees/Board-Approved Groups) followed. Dr. Kindberg stated this had been reviewed at the request of Chairperson White to reconsider the issue of term limits for Board appointees. Upon motion by Dr. Kindberg, and seconded by Ms. Woods, to recommend that the previously proposed revisions to Policy BDF with the change on page 4, Section III. C. to read… In general, the Board will appoint individuals to serve only two full consecutive terms on Advisory Committees or Board-Approved Groups. Exceptions to this provision may be made on a case-by-case basis, such as when the reappointment of a particular individual

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would provide continuity or expertise that is deemed particularly valuable to the district, a discussion followed. Ms. McGarry stated she was opposed to the proposed amendment because it added more verbiage, the Board does not need to be directed on how to vote for a potential applicant, and she believes the original text is adequate. The second sentence defeats the first sentence causing it to be a mute point. Ms. Woods agreed the second sentence weakens the Policy but it was a compromise that was crafted very well for those who personally believe there should be an amendment to the term periods and those who feel there are cases that it should not be limited. She believes there should be limits because with the same people being continually reappointed there is no opportunity for new blood. She also believes for people who have served well they should have a chance for a second term. This gives the Board an opportunity to give other people an opportunity. Mr. Dunlap stated this is a time for the Board to provide opportunities to people in the community. There are many who have applied for a committee and will do a good job but because we agreed to give people a second term it limits those opportunities. Mr. Dunlap said this was a good compromise to allow us to continue to have movement among people. The way it is crafted it allows people the opportunity to make their case for why the exception should be allowed. This will allow that the appointees will understand once they have served their two terms they will not expect to be automatically reappointed to a third, fourth, or fifth term. The Board voted 8 to 1 to approve proposed revisions to Policy BDF with the recommended change. Mr. White, Ms. Cramer, Mr. Gauvreau, Ms. Leake, Mr. Dunlap, Ms. Woods, Ms. Griffin, and Dr. Kindberg voted in favor of the motion. Ms. McGarry was opposed. E. Nomination for the District 2 representative to the Bond Oversight Committee. Upon motion by Ms. Leake, and seconded by Ms. Woods, to approve the appointment of Mary Gill as the District 2 representative to the Bond Oversight Committee, the Board voted 9 to 0 in favor of the motion. IV. CONSENT I TEMS A. Recommend approval of minutes  April 22, 2004 Closed Session  April 20, 2004 Regular Board Meeting  April 20, 2004 Closed Session B. Construction Items 1. Recommend approval of construction contract for the demolition of nine homes along Bank Street at Marie G. Davis Middle School 2. Recommend approval of construction contract for the renovation of the school bus parking lot at Hidden Valley Elementary School 3. Recommend approval of construction contract for new roofing at Alexander Middle School 4. Recommend approval of swing space moving Oakdale Elementary School to Druid Hills Elementary School 5. Recommend approval of right-of-way acquisition at new Ardrey Kell High School 6. Recommend approval of lease agreement renewal at Quail Hollow Middle School 7. Recommend approval of easement agreement at Westerly Hills Elementary School 8. Recommend approval of easement agreement at Clear Creek Elementary School 9. Recommend approval of a service contract for Highland Mills Montessori School C. Item Deleted D. Recommend approval of supplementary funding request from NC Department of Public Instruction, Career and Technical Education, for College Tech Prep (CTP) Enhancement

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Grant E. Recommend approval of Financial Statements for March 2004 F. Recommend approval of Budget Amendments for March 2004 G. Recommend approval of appointment of independent auditors for the CharlotteMecklenburg Board of Education Upon motion by Mr. Dunlap, and seconded by Ms. Cramer, the Board voted 9 to 0 to approve Consent Items A.-G. V. REPO RTS/I NFORM ATION I TEMS A. Report from CMS Student Government Association on Honor Code Presented previously on the agenda. B. Report on Teacher, Family, and Student Survey Results Upon motion by Mr. Gauvreau, and seconded by Ms. Leake, to approve to move this item to the next scheduled Regular Board Meeting, a discussion followed. Mr. Dunlap stated he was concerned for the staff members who have waited to present this item. He asked the Board to allow them time to present the report. Ms. Woods stated the next meeting had a full agenda and also a Public Hearing on Bond Reallocations. Dr. Pughsley asked the Board to allow staff to present this report without comment or questions. Chairperson White called upon Dr. Pughsley to present the report. Dr. Pughsley called upon Dr. Susan Agruso, Assistant Superintendent for Instructional Accountability, for the report. Dr. Agruso reported the results of the 2003-2004 Teacher, Student, and Family Surveys. Dr. Agruso said the results of the teacher and student survey for schools were posted on the CMS website. Dr. Agruso said the Teacher Survey this year was done on-line which allowed for much greater efficiency, a more accurate report, and a faster turn-a-round to our schools. An issue that was addressed was teacher confidentiality. The teachers have been assured that their responses will be anonymous. There was a decrease this year in the response rate which may be attributed to the survey being done on-line and confidentiality concerns. Steps will be addressed by next year to alleviate these concerns. The overall response was much more positive than in the past. Reasons for this could be contributed to the fewer response rate and the teachers’ concerns for how their responses might contribute to negative public opinion of their school. Dr. Agruso said another reason for the more positive feedback is that CMS has done a lot of things to address the needs and concerns of their teachers. The issues of past surveys have been addressed and some of those things are working. There is a great possibility that our teachers are more positive about the district. This data will be further reviewed to provide a better understanding and, hopefully, contribute to a better response rate next year. Dr. Agruso stated the Student Survey responses were similar to past years. Students in grade 5, 7, and 11 were asked to participate. The wording in the Student Survey is being reviewed to provide for more accurate responses. The responses have proven that children do not see the world as adults and some of the same words do not have the same meaning. Every year they are asked about safe schools and each year the teachers and parents have been very confident in the safety of our schools. Dr. Agruso stated the surveys will be revised and the drafts will be presented to teachers and students to ensure what we are asking is what they understand us to be asking. Hopefully, this will assist interpretation and provide a much clearer picture of what is actually occurring. The Family Survey showed similar results as in the past. There were some differences noted based upon where parents are sending their children and what different demographic groups our parents come from. Typically, parents of our white students are more

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positive in their responses than children of African American students. Families of gifted children tend to be more positive in their responses than parents of children with disabilities. We are seeking to get parents more involved in the school setting. Dr. Agruso talked about the results for a safe and orderly environment. The results were 69.5% of students, 95.3% of teachers, and 90% of families felt the schools were safe and orderly. Dr. Agruso talked about discipline and are students well-behaved. The results were 44.4% of the students, 79.9% of the teachers, and 79% of the families felt students were well-behaved. VI. REPO RT FROM SUPERINTENDENT Dr. Pughsley reported that the Transportation Intent Form Deadline has been extended to May 14th. Parents can respond on the CMS Website, by telephone, or by mailing in the form. On May 20th there will be a Student Achievement Celebration. Almost 1,000 CMS students who have achieved regional, state, national, and international recognition for their achievements in academics, extracurricular, art, and athletics will be recognized. This will be held at the Charlotte Merchandise Mart from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. VII. REPO RTS FROM BO ARD MEMBERS Ms. Leake reported she had attended a luncheon hosted by the principal of Harding University High School for students who made straight As. She attended an event at Myers Park High School which presented information on Brown vs. Board of Education. She thanked Dr. Pughsley for his support to the family of Julian Brown. She thanked the social worker, the teacher, and others who supported Mr. Bowen in becoming a medical doctor at the University in Greenville, North Carolina. She stated she had lunch with custodians, Shirley McMoore and Carla Abraham, at Cochrane Middle School. She reported she spoke with the principal at Garinger High School, Jo Ella Ferrell, and thanked her staff for supporting her in her recent illness. She attended the Kings and Queens’ events at Marie G. Davis Middle School and Merry Oaks Elementary Schools and thanked the community for its support to these students. She was pleased to see the number of parents who attended this event. She expressed concern about behavior in the schools and the reporting of incidents. Ms. Leake reported the Curriculum Committee would meet at Olympic High School at 10:00 a.m. on the following Tuesday. Mr. Dunlap announced because Board members were going to Raleigh, the Safety Committee meeting will be postponed. The next topic of discussion will be what options the Board has to deal with students and their behavior. Ms. Cramer reported that Dr. Tony Habit with the Bill and Melinda Gates High School Project would be presenting at the Partners for School Reform meeting on Wednesday at 8 a.m. at the Chamber. Ms. McGarry reported she had attended the Courage Exhibit at the Levine Museum of the New South and participated in the conversations on courage. She attended the Legislative Breakfast in which Molly Griffin presented the CMS Legislative Agenda. She attended an event at the Barringer Academic Center conducted by the principal and leadership team. She attended the ribbon cutting and dedication at the Merry Oaks International Academy. The students gave a wonderful tour of the school and the presentations by students were outstanding. At the Matthews Town Board Meeting on May 10th she recognized Gloria Schwartz, CMS Teacher of the Year, and Connie Shotts, principal at Matthews Elementary School, as the Principal of the Year.

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Louise Woods reported the League of Women Voters will have an event at the First Presbyterian Church on May 13th and a speaker from the Public School Forum will speak on No Child Left Behind. She encouraged everyone to visit the Courage Exhibit at the Levine Museum of the New South. She attended the Environmental Field Day at Hidden Valley Elementary School and many were involved in planting a garden. She attended the dedication at Merry Oaks Elementary School and the STAR Teacher Award hosted by Time Warner Cable. Dr. Lee Kindberg thanked Time Warner Cable for their continued sponsorship of the STAR Teacher Awards. IX. ADJO URNMENT By general consensus, the Board agreed to adjourn the meeting. The Regular School Board Meeting adjourned at 10:25 p. m.

_______________________________ Chairperson, Joe. I. White, Jr.

_______________________________ Clerk to the Board, Nancy Daughtridge

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