WASHINGTON STATE SCHOOL FOR THE BLIND

BOARD OF TRUSTEES

 

Minutes from Board of Trustees Meeting

September 21-22, 2007

Vancouver, Washington

 

 

Board Members Participating: Chuck Nelson, Jim Kemp, Steve Rainey, John Driscoll, Sherry Perry, Annabelle Fitts, Kay Adamson, and Eric Wiseman.

 

Board Members Absent:  Denise Colley

 

Ex-Officio Members Participating: Sue Ammeter (Washington Council of the Blind), Judy Koch-Smith (Teachers Association), Kaye Kipp (National Federation of the Blind of Washington), and Jean Curtis (Parent Representative).

 

Ex-Officio Members Absent: Bonda Albers (Washington Federation of State Employees Local #1225).

 

WSSB Staff Members Participating: Dr. Dean Stenehjem (Superintendent), Craig Meador (Director of On-Campus), Mary Sarate (Business Manager), Dee Amundsen (Director of Outreach), Sherry Hahn (Digital Learning/IT), Rob Tracey (Plant Manager), and Janet Merz (recording secretary).

 

September 21, 2007 – 7:05 – 9:30 p.m. 

Chuck called the meeting to order at 7:05 p.m.    

 

Department Updates:

*      Sherry Hahn: Digital Learning.  Sherry reviewed her written report.    

*      Mary Sarate:  Business Office.  Mary reviewed her written report. 

o        Mary corrected her report stating that WSSB closed the year at $0.00. 

o        Mary reported that WSSB currently has 86 full-time employees; if WSSB exceeds 100 full-time employees funding for merit increases will no longer be received.  Eric reported that this is not statutory; WSSB needs to have a Compensation Plan in place.  Cary Randow, with Department of Personnel is the contact for this. 

o        Dr. Stenehjem contacted the Governor’s office regarding the Department of Information Services requirement to have an approved 903 form before any technology is purchased.

o        Sue asked if WSSB was going to apply for a Supplemental budget this year.  Dr. Stenehjem said it is our hope that WSSB will not have to.

o        Campus Preservation includes:  Roofing, sidewalks, technology, painting, flooring, kitchen repair and upgrade, replace seating in WSSB’s Sherman Auditorium, security, lighting, signage, HVAC, energy management; preventative maintenance and repair, etc. 

*      Dee Amundsen:  Director of Outreach.  Dee reviewed her written report. 

o        Sue Ammeter asked what priorities were regarding jobs in the Braille Access Center.  Sue was told that textbooks have priority, which she understands.  Dee said this is correct.

o        Discussion was held regarding Judi’s plan to retire in the future and the difficulty to replace her.  John asked if outsourcing can be done for proofreading.  Dee said that WSSB does outsource.  Sue asked if Proofreaders have to be National Library of Congress certified.  Dr. Stenehjem said that would be our goal. 

o        Immediately before the Board Meeting Dee met with the two WSSB Vancouver itinerant teachers.  WSSB needs to hire a ½ time TVI immediately to meet student needs. 

o        Outreach teachers will be providing data this year regarding assessments completed on students, caseloads, numbers of blind students they serve and a breakdown by age and disability factors, etc. 

o        Discussion was held regarding recruiting teachers of the visually impaired (TVI).  Dee stated that she and Jessica Sydnor, Human Resources Manager, are discussing the possibility of traveling to colleges and universities to discuss employment opportunities with WSSB. 

o        There is a teacher’s group in Washington attempting to get specific certification for TVI’s as Washington State does not does not have an endorsement in this area.  Sue asked if the consumer organizations could provide support.  Dr. Stenehjem will contact John Glenn. 

*      Craig Meador:  Education.  Craig reviewed his report. 

o        Eric saw two videos this past week at a training that were in line with the “Community of Caring” training that staff went through in Fall Workshops/Safety Training: Painless Performance Improvement and We’re All In This Together.. 

o        Craig reported that enrollment will be 65 by October 1st. 

 

The meeting adjourned at 9:30 p.m.   

 

September 22, 2007 – 8:12 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. 

Chuck called the meeting to order at 8:12 a.m.

 

Department Updates (continued):

*      Rob Tracey: Plant Manager.  If any board member would like a tour, Dr. Stenehjem will be available for this at the end of today’s meeting.

o        Rob received a call from a contact in Olympia about grant opportunities for solar panels.  The school is exploring the option of submitting a grant.  If we receive the grant our goal would be to install a solar panel on top of the covered play structure. 

o        The Dry Building is up and running however it is not complete. 

*      Jessica Sydnor – Human Resources:  Dr. Stenehjem asked if there were any questions.

o        Chuck asked about Washington State’s inability to attract teachers as noted in the report.  Dr. Stenehjem said it is an issue across the country.  Dr. Stenehjem said that some of the issue is where the teacher position is located (i.e. Olympia, etc.).  Chuck asked if salaries and benefits are comparative nationally.  Dr. Stenehjem said we are rated 46th nationally.  Sue suggested that Dr. Stenehjem mention this as an employment opportunity at the consumer convention. 

 

Old Business:

Approval of June 15, 2007 Meeting Minutes: Jim moved to approve the minutes as written.  Sherry seconded the motion.  The motion was passed unanimously.

 

Executive Session:

An Executive Session was called to order at 8:19 a.m.  The session adjourned at 9:00 a.m.

 

New Business:

Renee Corso:  Renee reviewed the training that was provided at the Fall Workshop/Safety Training regarding a “Community of Care”. 

*      The focus on the training was building student strengths.  “Developing a Culture of Care” is the first of four modules.  The others are:  Child Development, Building Relationships, and Teaching Discipline.  The plan is to teach Teachers, Teacher Aides, and Residential Life Counselor’s the next two modules. 

*      Karen Mowry and Michele Wollert will be going through additional training in October. 

*      Renee had the Board do the “Pit Crew Experience” as the staff did.  This experience shows the importance of teamwork and keeping the common goal in mind. 

*      Judy commented that this was the best Safety Training workshop she has attended in 14 years. 

*      Goal of the Community of Care Training is to have staff nationally certificated in this program.

 

Annabelle proposed: 

*      During future Board meetings, the Board invite therapists, specialists, elementary/middle school/high school teachers, etc. throughout the year to give a quick overview of their programs.

*      To hold a board meeting on a Sunday night/Monday.  Annabelle felt that possibly a conference call could be switched to a meeting on campus during the day.  Judy suggested the board get into smaller groups to view classrooms, etc.  Dr. Stenehjem said we could look into this.

 

School Video:

Dr. Stenehjem showed the updated school video.  Copies will be sent to the board once available.

 

Preschool Team: 

Shelly Brown (Preschool Teacher), Jeanie Stolle (Speech Language Pathologist), and Cheri DeLyria (Orientation and Mobility Instructor) provided information regarding the Preschool program:

*      A PowerPoint presentation was shared that was designed for the May, 2007 Infant and Early Childhood Conference in Bellevue. 

*      The preschool team reviewed the daily program details.

*      Current student count in preschool is 6.

*      Discussion was held regard assessment of students when they enroll at WSSB.  Currently, WSSB uses the Oregon Project assessment tool in the spring and fall. 

*      Eric commented that the staff’s enthusiasm shows and they all appear to enjoy what they do. 

*      Sue asked if every child uses a cane.  Judy said that individual decisions are made based upon the student needs. 

*      Kaye asked if the preschool students have time allotted to interact with sighted students.  Jeanie said that they do on the playground from the daycare that is next door, however they also get the interaction in their home communities. 

 

Superintendent’s Report

Dr. Stenehjem reviewed his written report. 

*      Calendar adjustment:  Dr. Stenehjem would like to have the March 14-15, 2008 in Tacoma at the Marriott Courtyard.  This would be in conjunction with the AER conference (March 13-14).  This would allow board members to participate in the conference, to network with TVI’s, etc. Dr. Stenehjem will forward the AER agenda to the Board once it is complete (December). 

*      Dr. Stenehjem will be coordinating a Strategic Plan session to review the current plan.  This will be scheduled in January-February, 2008.  Annabelle asked about the expansion of the preschool program as listed in Dr. Stenehjem’s report.  Dr. Stenehjem would like to have a philosophical discussion regarding program options after preschool.  Traditionally, we have wanted the children to be in their home community, however we are also receiving request to have a kindergarten, 1st, 2nd grade program – numbers are not large enough to do this and we have resisted in having younger children in residence.  This could be a topic of discussion during the Strategic Planning meetings. 

*      Internet Radio Station:  Sue suggested that Marlena Lieber, from the American Council for the Blind Radio Station be contacted for protocols and information.  Oregon Public Broadcasting supplied the equipment and the cost is $80.00 per month. 

 

Ex-Officio’s Reports

·         Washington Council of the Blind (WCB): Sue reported that the WCB is getting ready for their convention November 1-3 in Spokane at the DoubleTree downtown.  The WCB meets in conjunction with the Department of Services for the Blind Youth Conference where an employment panel is going to be held.  On Saturday Dr. Stenehjem, LouOma Durand, Department of Services for the Blind, and Gloria Leonard from the Washington Talking Book and Braille Library will each bring a staff member with them to do a presentation.  Craig Meador will be presenting for WSSB.  Breakout sessions will be focusing on the GPS systems on how people navigate.  A talent show will also be held Friday night.  WCB is also working on the issue of transitioning the WTBBL from the Seattle Public Library back to the state library (both consumer organizations have been working hard on this issue).  A meeting will be held between the City and the State the first week in October.  Sue stated that the WCB has an advocacy committee; they represent anyone who has experienced discrimination on any level.  Sue described a current situation she is working on.    

·         National Federation of the Blind (NFB):  Kaye reported that their convention is October 19-21 in Olympia at the Ramada Inn Governor House.  On Friday they will have the technology fair and a board meeting.  On Saturday there will be various agencies presenting.  The NFB is also very concerned about the library issue.  The keynote speaker for their conference is Marc Mauer, President of the NFB.  Last summer there was a Youth Slam in Baltimore, MD.  Blind kids were able to experience science.  Dr. Stenehjem said two students from Washington attended.  Kaye stated that the NFB also works with discrimination issues. 

·         Teachers:  Judy reported that the teachers are certified in the WPEA union and they met to negotiate in August with administration, WPEA, and LRO:  one memo of understanding is regarding coaching salaries and a legitimate personal holiday was agreed upon.  TRI money is still not finalized but the Supreme Court will be looking at this in the next 8 months (June 3, 2008).  Another highlight in the contract is that the Outreach teachers now have 4-1/2 hours of office time per week.  Judy attended a conference last June in Squaw Valley which was entitled “No Barriers.”  This focused on outdoor activities.  Judy has materials and a DVD.  Judy said this was very inspiring and she was able to meet Erik Weinmeyer who climbed Mt. Everest.

·         Parent Rep.:  Jean is working on the rules of content for the Parent List Serve (providing step by step instructions).  Jean attended WSSB’s Student Registration day and thinks she talked with all parents.  Jean handed out her business card as to the parents.  Jean would like to work with Dee to get itinerant teachers to pass the word out to the parents throughout the state. 

 

Committee Reports

·         Education Committee (Chair:  Judy Koch-Smith):  Judy wanted to thank the people who signed up for the committee.  Judy talked to Denise and a conference call will be set up to review last year’s activities.  Dr. Stenehjem feels it is important to have Craig and Dee involved. 

·         Buildings and Grounds Committee (Chair:  Eric Wiseman):  Eric said that principally they would like to focus on safety issues.  Eric feels they should focus on facilities, vehicles and equipment. 

·         Management Committee (Chair:  Steve Rainey):  After the June board meeting, a letter was drafted on Performance Evaluation for our Superintendent.  The business of salary increase has been resolved at this time.  A salary range was created for the Washington School for the Deaf and the WSSB Superintendent’s, however what we requested was not received.  Part of the recommendation was to have an evaluation on Dr. Stenehjem each year.  Steve would like to encourage the Management Committee members to participate in the Strategic Plan review.  Discussion was held regarding the possibility of having the Parent Representative act as an Ombudsman, as part of the Management Committee.

·         Legislative Committee (Chair:  John Driscoll):  John and Dr. Stenehjem have talked about some of the goals this year.  John welcomes comments from the board and his committee.  John feels that two areas they could focus on this year are teacher certification and teacher shortage.  John stated that the University of Washington has a medical school program called the WWAMI (Washington, Wyoming, Alaska, Montana and Idaho).  These neighboring states pay a fee per student to the University of Washington, and the states are guaranteed X number of student placements per year at the University of Washington School of Medicine.  John feels this model may work for TVI programs, i.e. could Washington buy seats in an Oregon program.

 

Committees (duties, etc.):  Dr. Stenehjem handed out suggested committee topics.  Chuck said it is a working document.  Chuck stated that Janet can set up telephone conference calls with committees. 

 

Miscellaneous

*      Dr. Stenehjem presented Chuck a plaque in appreciation of his tenure as Chairman of the Board for two years. 

 

There being no further business, the meeting adjourned at 11:50 a.m.  The next Board meeting will be held in Vancouver on November 16-17, 2007.   

 

 

                                                                                                                                                           

Chuck Nelson, Vice Chair                                          Dean O. Stenehjem, Ed.D.

                                                                                    Superintendent

 

Board Reports

September 2007

 

Business Office

 

1.      2006-2007 Budget

a.       Operating

·         We closed the year with a balance of $6,422; half will go into the state’s general fund and half will go into our Saving Incentive Program, bringing the total in that fund to $11,982.  We were able to carry forward $47,000 in private/local funds (Outreach).

·         We also closed out the biennium on September 12, 2007.

 

2.      2007-2009 Budget

·         The legislature has funded the following decision packages: 

Decision Package

Funding Approved

Day Transportation

 $          234,000

Child Safety Training

 $            27,000

Braille Transcription

 $          124,000

LIFTT

 $            86,000

Regional Outreach

 $          254,000

Kennedy Gymnasium

 $       9,000,000

Campus Preservation

 $          770,000

 

·         The 2007-2009 allotments were submitted on time and have been approved.  Following are the operating allotments: 

Program/Activity

FY 2008

FY 2009

Total

% of Total

Residential-Intensive Training Opportunities

$1,492,427

$1,537,480

$3,029,907

22.1

Education-On Campus

$2,472,415

$2,535,470

$5,007,885

36.4

Outreach-Off Campus

$1,046,773

$1,201,203

$2,247,976

16.4

Admin. (including Buildings & Grounds & Technology)

$1,656,172

$1,678,483

$3,334,655

24.3

Braille Production

$56,213

$67,364

$123,577

0.9

 

$6,724,000

$7,020,000

$13,744,000

        100.0

 

·         Supplemental Budgets are due October 10, 2007.  Our architect and project manager for GA are looking at whether the funding we received for the Kennedy Gym will be sufficient to complete the project or whether we will have to apply for supplemental funds.  Dean will provide more details.

 

3.      Performance Measures for 2007-09

 

Percentage of students transitioned to employment or post secondary programs

90%

Percentage of WSSB students who demonstrate 1.5 yrs growth in one academic year

80%

Cumulative Digital Learning Course resources offered by WSSB in order to expand learning options.

4 per qtr

Percent of WSSB high school students enrolled in on-line classes and/or use digital learning resource options.

50%

Percentage of Braille transcription delivered to customers on time.

100%

Percentage increase in Braille transcription services.

25%

Percentage increase in students served regionally.

1st yr – est. baseline
2nd yr - 100% increase

 

4.      Payroll

While we have had some issues with the payroll system since the conversion in July 2006, they seem to be unusually higher statewide since the change to the new biennium.  Employees are being very patient but we are running short on patience and time in the business office.  Since the new biennium (July) we have had to make over 40,000 line entry corrections to get payroll straightened.  Continued errors with little to no explanation continue to drain our resources and frustrate employees.  We will be GMAPing our issues to demonstrate to Dept of Personnel that resolution is needed.

                                                                                                                                               

 

Buildings and Grounds

 

·         Substantial completion for the Dry building was reached but scheduling difficulties with the concrete subcontractor delayed final sign off of this project for an additional two months.

·         Sensory Safari, in the basement of Old Main has added seven new exhibits donated from a collector in Hawaii. More displays are scheduled to arrive shortly including a male lion.

·         Per the Health Departments request, we have anchored all of the cottage closets to the walls.

·         Replacement of the fitness center is progressing with a targeted bid date of November 5 and a ground breaking of January. We continue to meet with the architectural firm and refine our LEED point status. Current state requirements are for at least LEED silver and we are trying for a gold rating. This is a rating of the buildings energy efficiency and low environmental impact.

·         Based on historical data of our natural gas usage, our current boilers are grossly oversized. We are in the process of replacing one of the burners of the boiler house boilers. This should increase that boilers efficiency. We will then evaluate if replacing the remaining boiler with a smaller unit will be cost effective.

·         We are in the process of gathering information so we can apply for a grant to the state that will pay for the addition of another solar array. We are hopeful that it can be attached to the roof of the covered play area and produce another 10 to 12 kWh for the campus.

·         The wood shop and art class have been relocated to the Walter Dry Building and is still being organized.

·         All WSSB vehicles have gone through emissions testing and passed. The average number of miles on the thirty WSSB vehicles is 41,000 with Outreach vehicles averaging 45,000. Two vehicles are over 100,000 miles. One of which will be evaluated for surplus.

 

Potential Facilities Committee Help:

·         Sources for additional summer help; current sources used are Boy Scout eagle projects, Larch Corrections and students.

·         Current maintenance worker to square footage at WSSB is 57% more than the average university and 47% more than the average school district.

                                                                                                                                                           

 

On Campus

 

Direction based on Data.

 

We have been collecting data for several years.  During the last four years we have been focusing on ways to establish a quantitative measurement regarding student progress in the expanded core areas.  These include daily living skills, orientation and mobility, Nemeth, assistive technology and braille. 

 

The data part was easy; establish checklists and record information. Creating the quantitative formulas that can measure progress becomes more challenging.  Two years ago we created a simple formula (I am not a math major).  It was based on skill sets that generally were gained during chronological age groups.  These provided a platform and a ceiling for the skill set.  These skill sets came from varying respected blindness checklists.  We then cross referenced the skill set with skill sets that were developed for children without blindness (when possible).  These tools have allowed us to measure student progress in a “number sense or chronological grade progression.”  We then can measure how much progress is made by students, either individually or by the average.  So what have we found?  Here it is:

 

Daily Living Skills 

·         3 years of Data results average yearly growth 1.95 yrs

 

Orientation and Mobility

·         1 year of Data

·         Blind average 10.4 months growth

·         Low Vision 9.7 mos. Growth

 

Nemeth Skills

·         1 year of data

·         1.22 years growth

 

JAWS skills

·