"The
St. Louis Schools Watch was founded on the premises that parental
and community involvement are needed for good schools to flourish,
and that public participation is a cornerstone of democracy. The
Watch offers information and analysis that we hope contributes to
a public debate over what changes are necessary to improve St. Louis
public schools, and what works."
School Board President Veronica O'Brien said she and her son were threatened and intimidated by car loads of supporters of ousted Vashon basketball coach Floyd Irons.
"I came home with my 11 year-old on the backseat when I approached my driveway and saw about 10 cars with loads of people," she wrote in an e-mail to a supporter. "As I proceeded to turn into my driveway several of the cars U-turned into the rear of my car. My son, Taylor said 'Mommy, oh no!" and as I looked up these fools had jumped on both sides of my car."
She said they yelled and told her "what they were going to do to me." She said she sat with her son in the car with the doors locked while she called her brother then the police.
"I called 911 as my son and I sat in the car for about 12 minutes before the police came. For the second time the police would not write a report. I pleaded for help so I could get a restraining order. They would not do so," wrote O'Brien.
She said her husband and daughter were out of town and she was fearful for her son's safety.
"This is not a peaceful protest, but it is something that has risen to a higher level. I feel harm is imminent," wrote O'Brien.
"How do I get help to protect my family if the police won't."
Commissioner of Education Kent King said yesterday that the lack of parental involvement in the St. Louis Public School district is one of the most frustrating things for him in the ongoing crisis affecting the district's 35,000 students.
"The problems in St. Louis are going to solved long-term when the parents get engaged in the educational process of kids and in the administration of school," said King.
King said he has often been told by parents that they are satisfied with schools that he knows were underperforming.
"These were parents who had kids in school buildings that didn't have anybody scoring above 14 on an ACT test," he said. "That is not good enough."
Members of the State Board of Education yesterday discussed the loss of focus on the students of St. Louis Public Schools by both sides in the ongoing political battles affecting the district.
"I can remember six, seven, eight years ago when we had a great deal of concern about Kansas City and actually St. Louis was improving every year and things were looking like it might turn out to be one of the better urban districts in the country," said board member Thomas Davis of Kansas City.
"And here we sit these number of years later and St. Louis' trend line has clearly been down and decelerating faster than almost any district than we have data on," said Davis. He said that in all the discussion he has read about the current situation in the district, he has not seen a focus on student achievement.
Vanetta Rogers, the St. Louis regional board member, shared in her colleague's assessment. She said she also saw a loss of focus by the players in the ongoing soap opera that SLPS has become.
"You hear the adults -- with their factions and their views and their PACs and their whatevers -- talking about who failed to agree with whom about what," she said. "But you don't hear enough about efforts to come together and try to create a single voice."
As we reported yesterday, State Education Commissioner Kent King has appointed five people to a special committee charged with analyzing the current state of St. Louis Public Schools and making recommendations to the Missouri Board of Education on how the state can best help the district become successful.
"My biggest concern frankly is not who's administering, but the stability that needs to be in place so kids have a chance to learn," said King. He noted the sudden departure of Superintendent Creg Williams two weeks ago and the continuing conflicts on the school board.
After having just two superintendents in the 12 years before the April 2003 school board election, SLPS has since gone through five district leaders in just over three years.
Commissioner of Education D. Kent King today appointed the following five Missourians to a special committee that is charged with helping to find solutions to the "continuing turmoil in the St. Louis Public Schools":
Dr. William H. Danforth Atty. Frankie M. Freeman Dr. Donald Suggs Atty. Ned Lemkemeier Michael Middleton
Check back later for video from the meeting and subsequent press conference...
The State Board of Education is meeting tomorrow in Jefferson City for a regularly scheduled meeting. The State Board and Commissioner of Education D. Kent King will discuss the situation in the St. Louis Public Schools about 2:00 p.m. The meeting is being held on the sixth floor of the Jefferson State Office Building, 205 Jefferson Street.
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The storms which left over a half million St. Louis area residents without power for days and caused millions of dollars in property damage also took its toll on St. Louis Public Schools.
District officials report that several schools suffered damaged to roofs. They estimate the cost of the repairs to be somewhere around $525,000. The most severe damage was at Sumner High School, L'Ouverture Middle, and Henry Elementary.
The good news for the bankrupt school district is that insurance will pick up all of the repair costs, excluding the deductible.
The Metropolitan Association for Philanthropy will hold a teleconference today at 1:00 to discuss the state of the St. Louis Public Schools. A quick call to MAP confirmed that no one from SLPS was invited to participate. That rubbed at least one school board member the wrong way.
"I am extremely disappointed that you have not contracted district officials to advise us of your efforts and seek answers to questions that you have raised," wrote Bill Purdy in an email to MAP and forwarded to several reporters and an aide to Mayor Francis Slay.
"Surely your efforts are not directed in the direction of discouraging potential funders of programs for our city children. Surely this is not an effort on your part to politicize the education of children so as to promote a state take over of the school district," wrote Purdy.
A representative from MAP told PUB DEF that this meeting was just for its members. She said that not even members of the mayor's staff had been invited. She called the teleconference a first step and said representatives from the community would be invited to future meetings.
For the third day in a row, people have protested the replacement of former Superintendent Creg Williams with Dr. Diana Bourisaw.
Yesterday evening, in front of City Hall, two dozen people carried signs critical of the school board majority and shouting, "We're mad as hell and we're not going to take it!" They also gathered signatures on a petition of "no confidence" which they plan to turn over to the school board and the media later.
Among the protesters once again were ousted Vashon basketball coach Floyd Irons and local sports personality Demetrius Johnson, whose sister's job with SLPS was eliminated the same day as Irons'.
State senate candidate Jeff Smith also joined the picketers Wednesday. In an interview with PUB DEF, he said he joined in their disappointment in the board's decision to force out Williams.
"I didn't think he had a fair shot to see his plan through," said Smith.
KTVI Channel 2 is reporting that a lawsuit is being filed by citizens on behalf of former Superintendent Creg Williams and former Vashon basketball coach Floyd Irons, who were both were fired last week. The lawsuit reportedly seeks to remove board member Bill Purdy.
A rally is being planned for tonight by opponents of the school board majority. It will be at 5:00 p.m. at City Hall.
UPDATE: Channel 5 reporter Sharon Stevens gives a little more details about the lawsuit. She reports Purdy is being sued by fellow board members Flint Fowler and Ron Jackson and 47 other citizens, including Floyd Irons. The lawsuit claims Purdy is serving on the board illegally and should be removed.
KSDK reports the issue being whether a person can run for the school board if he or she has relatives who work in the district. Two of Purdy's daughters and a grandson are teachers in the district. A recent change in Missouri state statutes allows school board candidates to serve, even if there is family working in the system.
But according to Stevens, the school board bylaws still say that is illegal. Those bylaws have not been amended to reflect the state law and that is what the lawsuit is based on.
Hundreds of people were unable to get into last night's school board meeting, the first since the board forced out Superintendent Creg Williams and popular Vashon basketball coach Floyd Irons.
Reporters from PUB DEF, KMOX, The Arch City Chronicle, a photographer from The Post-Dispatch, members of the Clergy Coalition, and several elected officials stood in the summer heat, waiting to be allowed in. Even after a few of us were allowed into the building, we still could not enter the auditorium until dozens of people had left the meeting.
"By order of the fire marshal," we were told.
Inside, the crowd let the school board know that they were not happy with the events of the past week.
Chants of "Hey, hey, ho, ho! Veronica's got to go!" could be heard loudly in the hallways. Board members were booed and comments, some vulgar, could be heard after nearly every board move.
"Back to the bad old days," said one parent.
Among the business the board was able to complete was the passage of an almost $400 million budget for the next fiscal year. That budget, prepared by Williams and his team over several months, was questioned for the first time by board members Bob Archibald and Ron Jackson, both of whom are rarely critical of such things in public meetings.
After voting in favor of a budget last month that overspent by $4 million, Archibald asked the new superintendent, Dr. Diana Bourisaw, if $10 million could be further cut from this balanced budget in anticipation of the predicted financial crisis facing the district in 2007.
After little debate, the budget was passed by a 4-3 vote.
The St. Louis Board of Education will be meeting for their regular monthly meeting tonight at Carr Lane VPA Middle School, 1004 N. Jefferson Ave. The Executive Session will begin at 5:00 p.m. and is closed to the public. The Open Session will be held at 7:00 p.m. in the school auditorium.
When asked about a report last night on KSDK, a district official confirmed this morning that Dr. Diana Bourisaw, the new superintendent, will not be at tonight's meeting. We were told she has "prior commitments." But later, district spokesman Tony Sanders and the same district official told The Watch that Bourisaw WILL be at tonight's meeting.
One thing is for sure, she and the school board will be greeted by hundreds of district parents, employees and watchers who are all lining up on different sides of the debate on the firing of Coach Floyd Irons, the forced resignation of Superintendent Creg Williams, and the possibility of a state takeover of St. Louis Public Schools.
Here is the video yesterday's press conference. It's broken into six parts. Click here to see the question and answer session that followed Dr. Diana Bourisaw's remarks.
Click here to see Dr. Diana Bourisaw answer 15 questions posed by the media and parents yesterday.
Statement by Commissioner of Education D. Kent King regarding the St. Louis Public Schools:
We are hopeful that the new leadership team in the St. Louis Public Schools can focus on the welfare of students and on starting school.
The recent turmoil in the central office has created a district that does not demonstrate that focus. This cannot continue.
As soon as student achievement data are received in September, we will examine it to determine its impact on the district's accreditation. Student performance is what determines accreditation.
We must also examine governance options to determine if there are actions the State Board of Education should take that could provide the opportunity for greater focus on students and more stability in the school district.
A crowd of more than 50 people picketed outside the home of School Board President Veronica O'Brien tonight calling for her removal from the board and the rehiring of basketball coach Floyd Irons.
The crowd, led by local sports personality Demetrius Johnson, shouted chants of "Veronica must go!" and "recall, recall" while O'Brien sat on her front steps protected by nearly a dozen City police officers.
The protesters promised to come out in force at tomorrow's school board meeting. They also said they would return to picket O'Brien's home again.
Gov. Matt Blunt issued the following statement today:
I am extremely disappointed with the action taken by the St. Louis School Board. This termination adds to the turmoil and only heightens the well founded public perception that the board has lost focus on what would best serve the students and parents of St. Louis.
This kind of instability is not good for delivering education. Amidst all the chaos we must not lose sight of what is in the best interest of the more than 37,000 Missouri children who rely upon the St. Louis public schools to provide them an education which would allow them to reach their full potential.
To that end I believe the State Board of Education should examine every alternative for quick action to bring stability to the St. Louis public schools.
The St. Louis Board of Education will hold a press conference today at 1 p.m. at the Clyde C. Miller Academy, 1000 North Grand Ave, to introduce interim Superintendent Dr. Diana Bourisaw.
From the press release: Prior to accepting the position of Interim Superintendent of the St. Louis Public Schools, Dr. Bourisaw served as Superintendent in the Fox C-6 School District and in the Sacramento City Unified School District in Sacramento, California. "I'm very pleased that Dr. Bourisaw has accepted the position of Interim Superintendent," said School Board President Veronica O'Brien. "She is committed to improving the academic achievement of the 35,000 students in this district."
Forces are lining up on both sides of the debate about a the future of who controls the St. Louis Public Schools. The April election brought a change in control of the school board and the last vestiges of Mayor Francis Slay's three-year control of St. Louis Public Schools went out the door with the exit of now former Superintendent Creg Williams. But the manner of Williams' departure has now sparked public cries for the State of Missouri to intervene in the running of the district.
On Friday, after Williams resigned (many think he was forced out by the board majority) Slay and board members Bob Archibald and Ron Jackson publicly said they believe the state should take over the district. Almost immediately, the public relations campaign began. In the newspaper, on television, on the radio, and even on the Internet, the seeds have been planted to build support for a takeover.
"We're sharing this e-mail over the weekend, due to the seriousness of the dismal actions taken by the foolhardy majority of the St. Louis School Board of Education, said a mass email from someone calling himself "Rare Gentleman."
"As residents and taxpayers, we urge you to join us in calling for Governor Matt Blunt of Missouri to take over the St. Louis Public School System. On Monday get your friends and associates to call or write. Let the Jefferson City officials hear from you, no matter where you live," he wrote.
On the other side, supporters of the board majority also began organizing by email.
Nicholas Clement, a supporter of the two newly elected board members, Peter Downs and Donna Jones, sent out an email also encouraging people to call Kent King, the head of the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.
"Let him know you are opposed to the State taking over our district, whose board majority was recently elected by the people of St. Louis," wrote Clement. "The Republicans who own Slay do not think they are obliged to live by the government of the people, by the people, and for the people. This is a naked attempt by them to get around a democratically elected board."
"Archibald, Jackson, and Slay sound like a spoiled brats, who, if they can't own the school district are willing to smash it. That's the damn shame," he wrote.
People from both sides are expected to show up at tomorrow's school board meeting. The meeting will be at Carr Lane VPA Middle School, 1004 N. Jefferson Ave. The open session will be held at 7:00 p.m. in the school auditorium. People wanting to speak should show up early to sign up.
Former Superintendent Creg Williams told Channel 4 reporter Anne Steffens that he resigned today after talking to his family and close friends. He said he was not fired or forced out as has been reported. After saying as recently as yesterday that he would not resign, Williams told Steffens that he felt that the new board deserved the opportunity to select their own superintendent. Click here to see Steffens' interview. Click here to watch Mayor Francis Slay's press conference.
Board member Bob Archibald called tonight's ouster of Superintendent Creg Williams "despicable" and "St. Louis at its worst." He also told reporters that he thinks the state should come in to take control of St. Louis Public Schools.
Archibald was joined in his call for a state takeover by Mayor Francis Slay who tonight told television reporters that Williams was SLPS' best chance for reform. The next best shot is a state takeover, said the mayor.
The mayor's statement adds merit to rumors we reported on earlier this week that had Slay and board member Ron Jackson in contact with the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education requesting them to step in at the earliest opportunity.
The four board members that voted in favor of letting Williams go (Veronica O'Brien, Bill Purdy, Peter Downs, and Donna Jones) didn't have much to say to the media tonight and offered no justifications for their actions.
EMERGENCY MEETING CALLED... WILLIAMS FORCED OUT AS SUPERINTENDENT, BOARD HIRES BOURISAW IN CLOSED MEETING
By Antonio D. French
School Board President Veronica O'Brien has called a special emergency board meeting for 6:30 tonight. No word on the agenda, but some speculate that this could mean the end of Superintendent Creg Williams' time in SLPS.
Developing... UPDATE: Dr. Creg Williams' time as the superintendent of the St. Louis Public Schools is over. It is not clear yet if the school board fired Williams or, in the face of a 4-3 vote, he resigned. What is clear is that the school board is as divided as ever and calls are increasing for the state to take over.
After the closed meeting vote, board member Bob Archibald was the first to emerge. He blasted the board majority for letting Williams go. He told reporters that he thinks the state should come in and take over SLPS. [See video later]
Still Developing...
UPDATE 2: SLPS is now headed by Dr. Diana Bourisaw, who was hired by the Board just a couple of weeks ago as an internal auditor.
Superintendent Creg Williams informed the Board of Education and members of the public this week that SLPS is now in compliance with all state requirements regarding Special Education.
Williams said that when he came to St. Louis, the district was out of compliance with "hundreds of items," but thanks to the work of many people in the district's special education services division, the State of Missouri has notified the district that they are now in good standing.
Williams praised the work of Dr. Marla Oakes, in particular. Oakes is the director of special education services for the district. Her future in SLPS has been the subject of much discussion as of late.
Last week The Watchincorrectly reported that Oakes and several of her staff had received Reduction in Force (RIF) letters along with many other district employees. That was wrong. Two sources then told The Watch that Oakes had resigned. Oakes today said that she has not submitted a letter of resignation to the human resources department.
She would not say if she had told Williams or any other administrator of plans of resigning, but she did blast The Watch for being in her business and worrying her staff with rumors of their firings. We again offered our apologies to her and her staff for our mistake.
We also tried to explain to Oakes how The Watch tries to balance the public's right to get information out of an often secretive government organization against the chance of getting the story wrong every once in a while due to the inaccuracy of some off-the-record sources.
We join the superintendent in congratulating Oakes on her accomplishments on behalf of St. Louis Public Schools students and wish her well in her future endeavors -- whatever and wherever they may be.
Lost in all the talk about the downsizing that left Floyd Irons unemployed (if only temporarily) is the fact that this week the St. Louis School Board got a balanced budget out of a reluctant and increasingly insubordinate superintendent.
Last month, Superintendent Creg Williams submitted a 2006-2007 budget to the Board which was unbalanced and dug the district $4 million deeper into financial uncertainty. Against the recommendation of Williams and the votes of board members Bob Archibald, Ron Jackson and Flint Fowler, the four-person majority rejected that budget and instructed Williams to find more cuts.
A month later, at Tuesday's Administrative meeting, Williams came back with a General Operating Budget in which expenses did not exceed projected revenues and, perhaps most importantly, actually pays down nearly $4 million in debt.
Board Vice President Bill Purdy commended Williams not just for submitting a balanced budget, but also for supplying board members with much more supporting documentation than he did last month.
But board member Robert Archibald downplayed the significance of the $8 million swing from creating more debt to eliminating debt. He said that it represented only a small percentage of the total budget and was only a drop in the bucket compared to the $30-50 million debt projection for November 2007.
The Postreports this morning that Mayor Francis Slay and board member Robert Archibald think four of the seven members of the St. Louis School Board may be ready to fire Superintendent Creg Williams.
Reporter Steve Giegerich must have read The Watch or our sister site, PUBDEF.net, earlier this week when we reported that board member Ron Jackson had been in contact with the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education regarding the tensions between the board and Williams.
Without a mention of our story, Giegerich wrote, "Jackson's concern over what he called 'board dysfunction' led him recently to contact [DESE] about a potential state takeover of the school district, Missouri's largest."
The Post stopped short of also re-reporting our sources' claims that Slay also contacted DESE about taking over SLPS. But that part of our story is what prompted board president Veronica O'Brien to blast Slay in an email to the mayor and copied to several other people.
"Your office needs to stop! Can you folks get over the fact that you lost both elections," wrote O'Brien. "Back off and run the city! Stop calling [DESE Commissioner] Kent King and trying to hurt the children. Do you know what you look like?"
O'Brien went on to tell Slay, "I never hear you talk about the children only Creg. If Creg is gone it is your fault. Grow up Mayor Slay -- run what you can -- the city and not the school district.
"Your people destroyed the district and if all they did came out it would destroy you. Please, please back off we have all had enough of you!!"
FLASHBACK: Post Called on Williams, Old School Board to Take Action Against Irons
By Antonio D. French
In light of the Post-Dispatch's reaction to the elimination of Floyd Irons' position in SLPS, school board member Bill Purdy reminded The Watch about this December 8, 2005 editorial:
The St. Louis School Board and Superintendent Creg Williams didn't even give Floyd Irons a slap on the wrist for the financial irregularities at Vashon High School. Instead, they cleared Mr. Irons, apologized to him for the bad publicity and gave the erroneous impression that prosecutors had exonerated him.
It was a stunning example of the lack of public accountability.
Mr. Williams, who said last month that he could probably find similar irregularities at almost any city high school, announced on Tuesday that the Irons matter was closed. Instead of disciplining Mr. Irons, a popular basketball coach, the superintendent announced a 15-step plan to tighten controls on the handling of money in the schools.
The action followed two audits that had pointed the finger of guilt at Mr. Irons. The audits found that major purchases at Vashon had not been properly requested or approved, including a $50,000 gym scoreboard, a $5,900 gym floor and about $100,000 in uniforms. Financial records had not been turned in for the 2003-4 school year, during which time Mr. Irons was acting principal. Ticket sales for some basketball games couldn't be accounted for. Mr. Irons had a contract with Nike to provide uniforms and equipment to the boys' basketball team, even though school funds were used to make similar purchases.
Post-Dispatch stories on the Vashon irregularities were based on copies of draft audits. If the final audit has more complete information that exonerates Mr. Irons, then the board should make it public. Meanwhile, the School Board has left a mistaken impression that Mr. Irons has been exonerated by St. Louis Circuit Attorney Jennifer Joyce. Jeannette Graviss, Ms. Joyce's chief warrant officer, said in a telephone interview on Wednesday that "the bookkeeping was so sloppy that there would be no way to determine if there was criminal behavior.... It is an exaggeration to say that the review exonerated anyone," she added. "That is completely false."
Ms. Graviss said she had reviewed an audit, but hadn't looked at any documents, such as checking accounts, balance sheets or receipts. Nor had she talked to Mr. Irons or to retired Athletic Director James Ford, who could not be found to answer questions about the district audits. She acknowledged that a fuller investigation that touched these bases might have found criminal wrongdoing, but still thought that the records mess would make prosecution difficult.
Mr. Irons is a great basketball coach with political clout. Getting to the bottom of the financial irregularities at Vashon would have taken a lot of gumption and willingness to take the heat from angry Irons supporters. This board and this superintendent have demonstrated they don't have it.
In closed session last night, the St. Louis Board of Education approved a resolution to reduce the size of the office that oversees sports for the district, leaving its current director, Floyd Irons, at least temporarily unemployed.
The resolution called for the Office of Health, P.E., and Sports Administration to be dissolved and the current positions in that office to be eliminated "due to insufficient funds." The administration of the public high school league is now to be directed by just one person and one secretary, as has was the case for many years before.
Steve Giegerich of the Post-Dispatch broke this story last night, while the Board was still meeting. He reports that Irons' salary was around $90,000 per year.
It is possible that Superintendent Creg Williams may reassign Irons to other duties in the district, but he will not be coaching. The resolution specifically called for former employees of the office to be transferred to a "teaching, non-coaching or clerical assignment where they possess the required qualifications."
A rumor is circulating around St. Louis Public Schools that the Mayor and at least one holdover from the last school board majority have requested the state to step in to take over the troubled school district.
It is believed that Mayor Francis Slay and board member Ron Jackson told Kent King, Commissioner of the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, that the current board majority is standing in the way of Superintendent Creg Williams' reform plans. Sources tell PUB DEF that the two asked DESE to take over the district at the first opportunity and appoint Williams to oversee it, effectively eliminating the St. Louis Board of Education.
DESE officials told PUB DEF that they are aware of the situation in St. Louis, but would not comment any further at this time.
Board member Jackson confirmed that he has been in contact with state education officials, but denied asking them to take over the district.
"I asked them to keep a close watch on the situation," he said. However, Jackson did say he thinks that the state may need to step in at some point, should SLPS' situation get much worse.
"Boards of education are creations of the state," said Jackson, adding that he thinks tensions between Williams and the current board are standing in the way of needed reform. Jackson said he couldn't say whether or not the mayor had also been in contact with DESE.
Ed Rhode, spokesman for the mayor, has not yet replied to our request for comment. PUB DEF today made a formal "Sunshine Law" request of the Mayor's office for copies of any and all correspondences between that office and DESE.
Sources at DESE have confirmed that people from "several camps" have been in contact with the department in recent weeks about the situation at SLPS.
But even if DESE did decide to step in, the state can only take over a district after it has been unaccredited for two years (as in the case of the Wellston School District) or if disaster struck and a district was unable to open its doors and operate.
This scenario may give some support to the conspiracy theory quietly making its way around SLPS. Some SLPS principals, teachers and board members have been quietly asking this question: Is Creg Williams trying to destroy the school district? And why?
An article by Steve Giegerich in today's Post-Dispatch highlights the concerns of some in the district that the 2006-2007 school year may bring the disaster that sets the stage for a state takeover.
Williams has repeatedly said that the district faces a $50 million deficit in Fall of 2007 that would mean that SLPS could no longer meet its financial obligations. Yet in his 2006-2007 budget submitted last month, which was rejected by the board, not only were no steps taken to address that crisis, but $4 million was added to it.
Almost two weeks ago, the district failed to pay many of its employees on time, blaming it on "human error." And last week, many key district employees were dismissed, including most (if not all) of the people in the office which administers federal Title 1 dollars and possibly the only district employee familiar with the software used to send special data to the state.
District spokesman Tony Sanders has not replied to requests for comment on these dismissals.
The board will meet for three meetings tonight starting at 5:00 at the district's Administration Building, 801 N. 11th Street. See the complete agenda, including consent agenda items, at our sister site STLSchools.org, home of the St. Louis Schools Watch.
The St. Louis School Board will be holding three meetings tonight. All three meetings will be at the Administration Building, 801 N. 11th Street. The Real Estate Committee meeting will be held at 5:00 p.m. and is closed to the public. The second meeting is a Special Board meeting which will begin at 5:15 p.m. The first portion of this meeting will also be closed to the public. The remainder of this Special Board Meeting will be open.
The Administrative Meeting will be held at 7:00 p.m. in the Board Conference Room (Room 108) and is open to the public. The agendas are as follows:
REAL ESTATE COMMITTEE AGENDA 5 p.m.
1. Call to Order 2. Roll Call 3. Motion to move into closed session 4. Real Estate 5. Motion to return to open session 6. Adjourn
SPECIAL BOARD MEETING AGENDA 5:15 p.m.
1. Call to Order 2. Roll Call 3. Motion to move into executive session 4. Legal Matters 5. Personnel Matters 6. Motion to return to open session 7. Fiscal Year 2006-2007 Budget 8. Adjourn
ADMINISTRATIVE MEETING AGENDA
1. Call to Order 2. Roll Call 3. Placement of Items on the July 18, 2006 Regular Board Meeting Agenda a) Pledge of Allegiance b) We Are Up to Good Things c) Public Comments d) Approval of Minutes i) Regular Board Meeting June 6, 2006 ii) Special Board Meeting June 6, 2006 e) Superintendent's Report i) Finance Report (1) Monthly Year-To-Date Report ii) Consent Agenda iii) Announcements f) President's Report Education Options, Ltd. (District Audit) g) New Business h) Information/Request i) Board member travel j) Announcements 4. Adjournment
CONSENT AGENDA July 18, 2006
07-18-06-01 RESOLVED, That the Board of Education authorizes the St. Louis Public Schools pending funds availability, to contract with the St. Louis Regional Program for Exceptionally Gifted Students (PEGS) in an amount not to exceed $43,200 for tuition for 9 students [names removed] to participate in an educational program for exceptionally gifted students for the period beginning August 22, 2006 and continuing through June 30, 2007. Funding Source: GOB
07-18-06-02 RESOLVED, That the Board of Education authorizes the St. Louis Public Schools pending funds availability, to contract with Susie Long and Judy Strawbridge in an amount not to exceed $26,360 to provide formal training in the areas of Co-Teaching and Collaboration for SLPS teachers and building administrators, both General Education and Special Education for the period beginning August 1, 2006 and ending June 30, 2007. Funding Source: DESE School Improvement Grant
07-18-06-03 RESOLVED, That the Board of Education authorizes the St. Louis Public Schools pending funds availability, to contract with Deaf Way Interpreting Services in an amount not to exceed $396,720 and Mid-America Therapy Services, LLC in an amount not to exceed $100,000 (total amount of all contracts not to exceed $496,720) for student related services (Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, and Deaf Interpreting) for students with disabilities for the period beginning July 12, 2006 and ending June 30, 2007. Funding Source: GOB/Federal IDEA, Part B
07-18-06-04 RESOLVED, That the Board of Education authorized the St. Louis Public Schools to contract with Dr. Sharon L. Slane for proposal planning and development services in an amount not to exceed $50,000 (pending fund availability) for the period beginning July 19, 2006 and ending June 30, 2007. Funding Source: Reading First Grant
07-18-06-05 RESOLVED, That the Board of Education authorizes the St. Louis Public Schools pending funds availability, to contract with Career Staff Unlimited in an amount not to exceed $139,896; City Speech, Inc. in an amount not to exceed $194,184; Cumberland Therapy Services in an amount not to exceed $475,020; Educational Based Services in an amount not to exceed $365,400; and Mid-America Therapy Services, LLC in an amount not to exceed $114,840 (total amount of all contracts not to exceed $1,289,340) to provide direct and consultative speech/language therapy services for SLPS students for the period beginning July 1, 2006 and ending June 30, 2007. Funding Source: GOB/Federal IDEA, Part B Funds
07-18-06-06 RESOLVED, That the Board of Education authorizes the St. Louis Public Schools to pay registration fees to CSU, Chico Research Foundation (Dr. Victoria Barnhart) in an amount not to exceed $20,750 for 10 staff members (three Elementary Principals, three Teachers, two Special Education Managers, one Specialized Services Officer (or designee) and one Executive Director, Special Education) to attend the Data Analysis and School Portfolio 2006 Summer Institute for training in the implementation of research-based interventions and professional development that will impact improved teacher practices and student outcomes for the period beginning July 19, 2006 and ending July 28, 2006.
AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Board of Education authorizes the St. Louis Public Schools to contract with the CSU, Chico Research Foundation (Dr. Victoria Barnhart, Data Analysis Training) in an additional amount not to exceed $21,700 for implementation of research-based interventions and professional development that will impact improved teacher practices and student outcomes for the period beginning September 14, 2006 and ending February 23, 2007 for a combined total amount not to exceed $42,450. Funding Source: DESE School Improvement Grant
07-18-06-07 RESOLVED, That the Board of Education authorizes the St. Louis Public Schools to enter into a printing contract with the lowest and most responsive bidder for the production of an academic and events calendar for the 2006/2007 school year. Funding Source: GOB
07-18-06-08 RESOLVED, That the Board of Education authorizes the St. Louis Public Schools to enter into an agreement with the American Red Cross Organization, allowing that organization to use our St. Louis Public Schools buildings as relief facilities for victims of a major Citywide disaster. The buildings would be used as dispensing locations for food and medicine. There would be no direct costs involved in this project. This agreement would take effect on July 19, 2006 and end on July 30, 2008. Funding Source: No Cost
07-18-06-09 RESOLVED, That the Board of Education approves the year-round trimester calendar of the Northwest High School Law and Transportation Academy. Funding Source: No Cost
07-18-06-10 RESOLVED, That the Board of Education authorizes the St. Louis Public Schools to enter into a contract with Shirley Brown to provide development support to the New Leaders Project in an amount not to exceed $21,000 for the period of August 1, 2006 through June 30, 2007 pending the availability of funds. Funding Source: Wallace Grant
07-18-06-11 RESOLVED, That the Board of Education authorizes the St. Louis Public Schools to accept and carry out, if funded, the U.S. Department of Education grant, Early Reading First in the amount of $4,276,926 for the period beginning July 19, 2006 and ending June 30, 2009. Funding Source: N/A; grant acceptance
07-18-06-12 RESOLVED, That the Board of Education authorizes the St. Louis Public Schools to approve a contract with AmeriCorps St. Louis for services provided to the children of St. Louis Public Schools in an amount not to exceed $224,000 for the period beginning October 1, 2006 and ending June 30, 2007. Funding Source: Title Programs
07-18-06-13 RESOLVED, That the Board of Education authorizes the St. Louis Public Schools to enter into a contractual agreement with On-Line Training Center, pending approval and availability of funds, in an amount not to exceed $100,000 to offer educational opportunities to students mandated by the Juvenile Court and the Department of Mental Health to the New Beginnings Adolescent Unit Residential Treatment program for the period beginning July 19, 2006 and ending June 30, 2007. Funding Source: GOB
07-18-06-14 RESOLVED, That the Board of Education authorizes the St. Louis Public Schools to receive funds from The Pettus Foundation via the St. Louis Public Schools Foundation in the amount of $26,500 for the implementation of the SLPS Class of 2010 College Fair for the period beginning July 19, 2006 through June 30, 2007. Funding Source: N/A; grant acceptance.
07-18-06-15 RESOLVED, That the Board of Education authorizes the St. Louis Public Schools to contract with College Summit, a nonprofit corporation, in an amount not to exceed $296,700, pending availability of funds, for the period beginning July 19, 2006. The contract ensures that all eligible seniors (as mutually determined by high schools and CS staff) participate in College Summit’s Senior Year Curriculum. The contract period is from July 19, 2006 through June 30, 2007. Funding Source: GOB (Contract attached)
07-18-06-16 RESOLVED, That the Board of Education authorizes the St. Louis Public Schools to receive federal monies from the Carl Perkins Grant in the amount of $1,385,847 to enhance vocational/technical education in the St. Louis Public Schools District for the period beginning July 1, 2006 through June 30, 2007. Funding Source: N/A; grant acceptance
07-18-06-17 RESOLVED, That the Board of Education authorizes the St. Louis Public Schools to accept the Urban League Head Start Contract for Purchase in the amount of $150,000 for the period beginning August 1, 2006 and ending March 31, 2007. Funding Source: N/A; grant acceptance
07-18-06-18 RESOLVED, That the Board of Education authorizes the St. Louis Public Schools to accept the Grace Hill Head Start Contract for Purchase in the amount of $840,000 for the period beginning August 1, 2006 and ending July 31, 2007. Funding Source: N/A; grant acceptance
07-18-06-19 RESOLVED, That the Board of Education authorizes the St. Louis Public Schools to accept the Educare Scope of Work Contract for Purchase in the amount of $88,937.73 for the period beginning August 1, 2006 and ending July 31, 2007. Funding Source: N/A; grant acceptance
07-18-06-20 RESOLVED, That the Board of Education authorizes the St. Louis Public Schools to accept and carry out, if funded, the U. S. Department of Education three-year grant, Advanced Placement Incentive Program in the amount of $2,995,058 for the period beginning July 19, 2006. Funding Source: N/A; grant acceptance
07-18-06-21 RESOLVED, That the Board of Education authorizes the St. Louis Public Schools to accept funds from Lowe’s Corporation Toolbox for Urban Education in an amount not to exceed $81,000 to implement the St. Louis Public Schools Middle Years and Secondary Schools Book Club Initiative for the period beginning July 19, 2006 and ending June 30, 2007. Funding Source: N/A; grant acceptance
07-18-06-22 RESOLVED, That the Board of Education authorizes the St. Louis Public Schools to contract with the Missouri School Boards Association in an amount not to exceed $17,000 for the payment of dues for the period beginning July 19, 2006 and ending June 30, 2006. Funding Source: GOB
07-18-06-23 RESOLVED, That the Board of Education authorizes the St. Louis Public Schools to contract with the Gateway Classic Sports Foundation to allow students from each of its high schools to participate in activities related to the annual Gateway Classic in an amount not to exceed $75,000 (pending the availability of funds) for the period beginning July 19, 2006 and ending June 30, 2007. Funding Source: GOB PULLED
07-18-06-24 RESOLVED, That the Board of Education authorizes the St. Louis Public Schools to contract with School Technology Management Group in an amount not to exceed $374,000 for the lease of the Comprehensive Attendance, Administration and Security System ("CAASS") at ten high schools in an amount not to exceed $374,000 (pending the availability of funds) for the period beginning July 19, 2006 and ending June 30, 2006. Funding Source: GOB
07-18-06-25 RESOLVED, That the Board of Education authorizes the St. Louis Public Schools to enter into a contract with Icon Mechanical Construction and Engineering LLC in an amount not to exceed $2,418,360.00 for HVAC improvements at Baden Elementary School for the period beginning July 19, 2006 and ending March 1, 2007. Funding Source: Air Conditioning Bond
07-18-06-26 RESOLVED, That the Board of Education authorizes the St. Louis Public Schools to enter into a contract with Icon Mechanical Construction and Engineering LLC in an amount not to exceed $2,415,320.00 for HVAC improvements at Bryan Hill Elementary School for the period beginning July 19, 2006 and ending March 1, 2007. Funding Source: Air Conditioning Bond
07-18-06-27 RESOLVED, That the Board of Education authorizes the St. Louis Public Schools to enter into a contract with C & R Mechanical Company in an amount not to exceed $2,514,120.00 for HVAC improvements at Cote Brilliante Elementary School for the period beginning July 19, 2006 and ending March 1, 2007. Funding Source: Air Conditioning Bond
07-18-06-28 RESOLVED, That the Board of Education authorizes the St. Louis Public Schools to enter into a contract with Corrigan in an amount not to exceed $2,617,125.00 for HVAC improvements at Hamilton Elementary School/CEC for the period beginning July 19, 2006 and ending March 1, 2007. Funding Source: Air Conditioning Bond
07-18-06-29 RESOLVED, That the Board of Education authorizes the St. Louis Public Schools to enter into a contract with Corrigan Company in an amount not to exceed $2,508,030.00 for HVAC improvements at Shaw VPA CEC for the period beginning July 19, 2006 and ending March 1, 2007. Funding Source: Air Conditioning Bond
07-18-06-30 RESOLVED, That the Board of Education authorizes the St. Louis Public Schools to enter into a contract with Midwest Asbestos Abatement in an amount not to exceed $227,198 to provide abatement services at Busch AAA, Laclede Elementary, and Southwest Educational Complex for the period beginning July 19, 2006 and ending March 1, 2007.
07-18-06-31 RESOLVED, That the Board of Education authorizes the St. Louis Public Schools to enter into a contract with Farmer Environmental Services, LLC in an amount not to exceed $33,000.00 to provide third party air monitoring and sampling services at Busch AAA, Laclede Elementary, and Southwest Educational Complex for the period beginning July 19, 2006 and ending March 1, 2007. Funding Source: Air Conditioning Bond
07-18-06-32 RESOLVED, That the Board of Education authorizes the St. Louis Public Schools to enter into a contract with Industrial Shelving System in an amount not to exceed $10,000 at Turner and Turner Branch Schools for locker repairs for the period beginning July 19, 2006 and ending March 1, 2007. Funding Source: GOB
07-18-06-33 RESOLVED, That the Board of Education authorizes the St. Louis Public Schools to enter into a contract with Craftsmen Contracting, Inc. for building renovations in an amount not to exceed $23,490.00 at Turner and Turner Branch Schools, for the period beginning July 19, 2006 and ending January 1, 2007, pending availability of funds. Funding Source: GOB
07-18-06-34 RESOLVED, That the Board of Education authorizes the St. Louis Public Schools to enter into a contract with NJW Construction Corporation in an amount not to exceed $66,400.00 for interior painting at Turner and Turner Branch Schools for the period beginning July 19, 2006 and ending January 1, 2007, pending availability of funds. Funding Source: GOB
07-18-06-35 RESOLVED, That the Board of Education authorizes the St. Louis Public Schools to enter into a contract with Authorized Elevator to provide elevator maintenance and repair services for District schools and locations in an amount not to exceed $200,000 for the period beginning July 19, 2006 and ending June 30, 2007, pending availability of funds. Funding Source: GOB
07-18-06-36 RESOLVED, That the Board of Education authorizes the St. Louis Public Schools to contract with Gateway Contractors, Inc. in an amount not to exceed $92,500.00 for electrical and life safety improvements at Central VPA (Southwest Complex) for the period beginning July 19, 2006 and ending March 1, 2007. Funding Source: GOB
07-18-06-37 RESOLVED, That the Board of Education authorizes the St. Louis Public Schools to enter into contracts with multiple vendors for moving and relocation services of the St. Louis Public Schools in an amount not to exceed $340,000 for the period beginning July 19, 2006 and ending June 30, 2007, pending availability of funds. Funding Source: GOB
07-18-06-38 RESOLVED, That the Board of Education authorizes the St. Louis Public Schools to accept a gift of labor and materials from St. Louis Children’s Hospital (SLCH) for installation of playground equipment for the period beginning July 19, 2006 through June 30, 2007.
07-18-06-39 WHEREAS, pursuant to Section 162.571, et seq., of the Revised Statutes of Missouri, the supervision and government of public schools and public school property of the St. Louis Public School District (the "School District") is vested in the Board of Education of the City of St. Louis ("the Board") as its governing body; and
WHEREAS, the Board of Education believes that it is in the best interest of the School District students, the Board of Education, and the public to ensure that students are afforded with learning environments conducive to academic achievement.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT THE BOARD OF EDUCATION OF THE CITY OF ST. LOUIS HEREBY ADOPTS THE ATTACHED LOCAL HEALTH AND WELLNESS POLICY.
This Resolution shall be dated July 18, 2006, and shall become effective immediately upon its adoption. Funding Source: N/A
07-18-06-40 RESOLVED, That the Board of Education adopts the General Operating Budget for the St. Louis Public Schools for Fiscal Year 2007 in an amount not to exceed three hundred and eighty five million, three hundred and forty one thousand, three hundred and eighty eight dollars, or $385,341,388. Funding Source: Not Applicable/Budget Adoption
07-18-06-41 RESOLVED, That the Board of Education authorizes the St. Louis Public Schools to accept the engagement of RubinBrown LLP to perform an audit of the governmental activities, the business-type activities, each major fund, and the aggregate remaining fund information which collectively comprises the financial statements of the St. Louis Public Schools as of and for the year ended June 30, 2006. The audit includes the financial reporting model described in the Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB) Statement Number 34. Dates of services are July 19, 2006 through November 30, 2006. The total amount for services is not to exceed $167,000.00. Funding Source: GOB
07-18-06-42 RESOLVED, That the Board of Education authorizes the St. Louis Public Schools to contract with W.A.C. Industries in an amount not to exceed $16,000 to provide job training services to students with moderate/severe developmental disabilities enrolled at Nottingham CAJT High School for the period beginning September 5, 2006 and ending May 4, 2007. Funding Source: IDEA Entitlement Funds
07-18-06-43 RESOLVED, That the Board of Education approves the renewal of a contract with the Dietrich Lockard Group in an amount not to exceed $76,800 for E-Rate consulting services for the period beginning July 19, 2006 and ending June 30, 2007, pending availability of funds. Funding Source: GOB
07-18-06-44 RESOLVED, That the Board of Education approves a contract with AT&T (formerly SBC) for SmartTrunk (local telecom (voice) services to the Board’s central offices located at 801 N. 11th Street, in an amount not to exceed $44,272.80 annually, renewable for two additional years, contingent upon receipt of the 2007-07 E-Rate Funding Commitment Decision Letter, for the period beginning July 1, 2006 and ending June 30, 2009. Funding Source: GOB
07-18-06-45 RESOLVED, That the Board of Education approves a contract with the Dell Corporation for District-wide purchase of personal computers, laptop computers, tablet computers, servers, storage devices, and peripherals, contingent upon funding, for the period beginning July 20, 2006 and ending June 30, 2007.
07-18-06-46 RESOLVED, That the Board of Education authorizes the St. Louis Public Schools to accept and carry out the Missouri Safe Schools Program grant, Project Intervention, in the amount of $94,000. Funding Source: N/A; grant acceptance
07-18-06-47 RESOLVED, That the Board of Education authorizes the St. Louis Public Schools to purchase computers from Dell in an amount not to exceed $17,300.00 from grant monies received through the DESE Missouri Safe Schools Program, Project Intervention, for the new Madison Alternative School for the period beginning July 19, 2006 and ending June 30, 2007. Funding Source: Missouri Safe Schools Grant PULLED
07-18-06-48 RESOLVED, That the Board of Education authorizes the St. Louis Public Schools to extend the current contract with Cannon Cochran Management Services, Inc. as the Third Party Administrator for the Board of Education’s Self-Insured Workers’ Compensation Program under the State of Missouri Self-Insurance Regulations in the amount of $23,160. The terms of this agreement shall be for three (3) months beginning on July 1, 2006 and terminating on September 30, 2006 pending availability of funds. Funding Source: GOB
07-18-06-49 RESOLVED, That the Board of Education accepts a joint collaborative grant from TSI, Inc. and Bogen Communications for approximately $20,000 for audio enhancement systems at Carnahan School of the Future. Funding Source: N/A; grant acceptance
07-18-06-50 RESOLVED, That the Board of Education approves the increase of $239,897.63 to the Xerox Corporation for District copy and print services for the period beginning July 1, 2005 and ending June 30, 2006. Funding Source: GOB
07-18-06-51 RESOLVED, That the Board of Education approves an increase of $75,143.67 to the Xerox Corporation for service, supplies, and maintenance for sixty-eight copiers at all school locations for the period beginning July 1, 2005 and ending June 30, 2006. Funding Source: GOB
07-18-06-52 RESOLVED, That the Board of Education authorizes the St. Louis Public Schools to enter into a partnership with the St. Louis Mental Health Board to establish 10 new after-school programs in St. Louis Public Elementary Schools via match funding in the amount of $400,000. Funding Source: Title I
07-18-06-53 RESOLVED, That the Board of Education authorizes the St. Louis Public Schools to contract with Sportsprint for the provision of community engagement services in an amount not to exceed $30,000 for the purchase of Back-to-School book bags for the period beginning July 19, 2006 and ending June 30, 2006, pending availability of funds. Funding Source: GOB
07-18-06-54 RESOLVED, That the Board of Education authorizes the St. Louis Public Schools to contract with School Specialty Supply for the provision of community engagement services in an amount not to exceed $30,000 for the purchase of Back-to-School supplies for students for the period beginning July 19, 2006 and ending June 30, 2006, pending availability of funds. Funding Source: GOB
07-18-06-55 RESOLVED, That the Board of Education authorizes the St. Louis Public Schools to contract with Radio One (Fox 95.5 FM) for the provision of community engagement services in an amount not to exceed $10,000 for the purchase of Back-to-School radio ads for the period beginning July 19, 2006 and ending June 30, 2006, pending availability of funds. Funding Source: GOB
07-18-06-56 RESOLVED, That the Board of Education authorizes the St. Louis Public Schools to contract with Clear Channel (104.9 FM, 100.3 FM, and 1600 AM) for the provision of community engagement services in an amount not to exceed $20,000 for the purchase of Back-to-School radio ads for the period beginning July 19, 2006 and ending June 30, 2006, pending availability of funds. Funding Source: GOB
07-08-06-57 RESOLVED, That the Board of Education approves an amendment to its contract with Alternatives Unlimited for the 2005-2006 academic year for services rendered to students requiring alternative education services above and beyond the original contract amount of $2,100,000 bringing that total contract amount to $2,232,300, pending availability of funds. Funding Source: GOB
Sources tell The Watch that much (if not all) of the staff in St. Louis Public School's State and Federal Programs office, also known as the Title 1 office, was fired last week.
A district spokesman confirmed that several district employees did receive so-called "reduction in force" (RIF) letters, but he could not immediately confirm the number or percentage of Title 1 staff that was let go.
If indeed the Title 1 office was gutted, it raises concerns about SLPS' compliance with some federal funding requirements. It also puts in serious doubt the district's ability to effectively administer current and future Title 1 funds.
Sources also tell The Watch that the assessment office of the Career and Vocational Education department was eliminated last week, with those employees also receiving RIF letters.
That office was responsible for assessing students' vocational aptitude in order to point them to a vocational program that suits them. During the district's last accreditation review, the lack of vocational education was one of the areas where SLPS lost needed points.
Others said to have received RIF letters include Marla Oakes, who was just promoted to director of special education and student services in April, and the top four people under her. That suggests that there is currently no one overseeing the district's special education services.
[Correction: Oakes and several others from the Special Education office resigned, effective July 31. We're told that replacements are not currently lined up. Again, no official comment has yet been given from the district.]
The Watch has also been told that one person in the district's Human Resources department who understood the system used to send important core data to the state was one of those who was RIFed.
Starting Wednesday, the St. Louis Board of Education will begin its own analysis of the district's finances.
On May 2, the school board agreed to hire its own auditor. The firm which they have selected is Education Options Ltd. and its president, Dr. Diana Bourisaw.
Bourisaw is a former superintendent of the Sacramento City Unified School District and has served on the Missouri Coordinating Board for Higher Education. She has a Ph.D. in Educational Administration from Iowa State University and holds certifications as teacher, principal and superintendent.
Superintendent Creg Williams told reporter Steve Giegerich of the Post-Dispatch that he has prepared a balanced budget and it is ready for the board's approval.
That revelation is buried at the end of a story in today's paper about a court ruling that the state does not owe St. Louis Public Schools $120 million relating to the voluntary desegregation program.
At their last meeting, the Board of Education rejected Williams' proposed 2006-2007 budget which added nearly $4 million to the estimated $50 million debt the district is projected to face by the end of next year.
