05-10-1999 Council Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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Dr. Mich directed the attention of the Board to the PARTNERS IN EDUCATION publication and the article on Paige Lewis, daughter of Board member Dick Lewis; to the FOCUS '99 puolication - an informational newsletter distributed to all staff. Dr. Mich stated that the professional day held on April 3 was a success and he extended an invitation from Intermediate District 287 to visit one or more of their sites on any of the following dates - 4/26, 27, 28 or 30. Dr. Mich provided a brief update on the facilities planning/construction informing the Board that on April 12 the Orono City Council would be considering the conditional use permit and that on April 29 an informational meeting wil] be held for the public. He stated that at the April 29 meeting the architects would present the design drawings for the new middle school and that groundbreaking is anticipated the last week of May or the first week of June. Dr. Mich updated the Board on the activities of the legislature. He brought to their attention a bill authorized by Senator Olson which would make the receiving district of open enrollment responsible for tuition costs, such a bill would serve to provide a financial penalty to the receiving district. Discussion ensued regarding the impact/effect that such a bill would have on our District and other districts as well. UPON MOTION by Martha Van de Ven, seconaed by Dick Lewis, the Board directed administration to send a letter to Senator Olson stating that District 278 is opposed to Senate file 2019 as it focuses on children in need of special instruction and discriminates with respect to how educational costs for these children will be paid. Motion carried. Dr. Mich, Dr. Shutts and Ms. Heidi Foley provided infonriation for the Board on the Graduation Rule. Dr. Mich updated the Board with respect to the status of legislative action, action that probably will not reach resolution until May. Ms. Foley reviewed the curriculum identification documents inclusive of criteria, timelines, terminology, etc. Dr. Shutts presented the performance package information and stated that if parents have concerns, they should contact the building principal for that specific performance package. The Board was also informed that performance packages are available for review by parents at the District Office and each of the school buildings or they may be purchased at a nominal cost. The Board expressed appreciated to the administration and staff for their diligent work in this area. Dr. Mich stated that even if the Graduation Rule would be abolished by the legislature, our