PGE - for Web Archives - Meeting minutes, School year 2000-2001

 

Parents for Gifted Education

Advocates for the Centralized Academic, Creative and Performing Arts Gifted Program of Rockford District 205
member Illinois Association for Gifted Children, affiliate of  National Association for Gifted Children

 

Minutes of September 18, 2000, meeting, West Middle School Library

Meeting was called to order at 6:30 PM.

There were a total of 41 present.
  
Introduction of Board and Board Reports

President - Terry Mohaupt introduced PGE Board and thanked those who helped with registration at King (Jan Kaderabek & Patty Powers), West (Rebecca Towns and volunteers) and Auburn ( Marilyn Parrish and Phil Doncheck).
Vice President - Tom Shula
Secretary - Arlene Williams / Thelma Busker will record minutes to e-mail, post at school and put into newsletter, which will be mailed out more
frequently.
Treasurer - Leon Saul reported that we have 83 members of PGE after registration and a current balance of $1,364.37.  He added that this would be a "skinny" year.  We have not had a fundraiser since 1996.
Publications - Andy Tatar was not present
School Liaisons
       King:  none
       West:  Andy Tatar, Tom Shula
       Auburn:  none

Committee Reports
Directory - Pink membership forms were made available to be distributed and collected at the end of the evening
District Meetings
       Parent Council: Jude Makulec
       School Board:  Tom Shula will represent PGE at school board meetings
Newsletter - Terry thanked Andy for all of his hard work on the newsletters; they have previously been sent out quarterly; but will try to send them out more frequently; volunteers are needed.

New Business
   Testing for the Academy will be Saturday, November 19 at Auburn for grades 5 - 11.  For CAPA: Saturday, November 4 at Auburn from 9 -11:30 AM; Tuesday, November 7, 3:30 - 4:30 and Saturday, March 10, 2001 at Auburn  
  Terry announced Focus Saturday would be October 21 at Cherry Vale Mall
   Marilyn Parrish displayed the Sara Ingrassia dictionary to be distributed to every third grader in the district.This is the fourth year for distribution.  The cost of the  dictionary is $20 each.  She is asking for ndividuals to purchase one or more dictionary.  Nameplates will be put inside each book showing who donated the book.  Those donating a dictionary are invited to help sort the dictionaries on November 5 and
also welcome to help pass the dictionaries out to students.
   Pam Wilson, past Co-President of PGE, announced that there is a possibility of one parent from West serving on the committee to study the reopening of West as a High School.  Anyone interested were to talk to her after the meeting.
  Terry introduced School Superintendent, Dr. Brown.  Dr. Brown announced he had to leave at 7:00 PM to catch a flight to Washington, DC.  A series of questions were given to Dr. Brown prior to the meeting.   Dr. Brown addressed the purpose of  the feasibility study to open West as a high school.  It will be based on factors - cost with staffing another high school, what upgrades would need to be made to West, busing,    student registrations patterns and how reopening West as a high school would affect the other high schools. He hopes to have the study conclude around Thanksgiving; a decision would be made within 60 days and possibly could begin the Fall of 2001.
   Dr. Brown talked bout the International Baccalaureate program he would like to  implement in the district. It is a challenging curriculum that would give students college credits. One high school, maybe two is interested.  In response to one of the printed questions, he stated CAPA would remain at Auburn.
   Dr. Brown proposed his idea of school-based management.  Parents would be  involved with interviewing and hiring teachers for their school.  He stated he would also like to see the Gifted Program expand and provide opportunities outside the program.  He would like to see class size reduced for K - 2 and in high school.
   At this point Dr. Brown needed to leave, Gary Bishop and Ruth Harris then addressed questions and concerns.  Concern was raised if the IB program would be competition for the Gifted Program.  Gary stated the focus of Dr. Brown is student achievement.  He also addressed the issue of searching for a qualified  Gifted Supervisor. They interviewed two, but felt neither one was qualified.  They  are beginning the search again.  
Suggestions were given on other resources  nationally.  Discussion following addressed the need to reach out to children on  the Gifted Program's waiting list; the feasibility of re-opening West; the concern of how this would affect the Gifted Program and middle schools.  The subject of weighted grades was also discussed.
 
The meeting adjourned at 7:55 PM.

Next meeting will be Monday, October 23.

Respectfully submitted,
Thelma Busker      



Minutes for Monday, October 23, 2000, West Middle School Library

Meeting was called to order at 6:33 PM.
There were a total of 14 present: Sue Christensen, Phil Doncheck, Mike Golden, Bruce Keyzer,  Kris Keyzer, Jude Makulec, Terry Mohaupt, Marilyn Parrish, Leon Saul, Tom Shula, Andy Tatar, Rebecca Towns, Mark Walter, Pam Wilson.
 
Board Reports

  • President - Terry Mohaupt reserved comments for later.
  • Vice President - Tom Shula
  • Secretary - With Arlene Williams and Thelma Busker, being absent, Terry will record minutes.
  • Treasurer - Leon Saul reported that we have 102 members of PGE and a current balance of $1,534.37. This includes income of deposit correction of $10 and October member donations of $210; and expense of $50 to West Middle School Special Ed team for newsletter assistance. $40 in checks will be deposited. Renewal of annual membership in IAGC was approved.

School Liaisons

  1. King:  no report
  2. West: Pam Wilson is on the Steering Committee for the West High School Feasibility Study. West will not change for the 2001-2002 school year. Study will continue. Next meeting 10/26, 5:00 PM at West, with Gary Anderson, architect who prepared the 1997 feasibility study on West, and Dr. Brown. Dr. Bueschel will make a public announcement in the West Middle School newsletter to eliminate community confusion, particularly for King and West families who wil need to make their choices.
  3. Auburn:  Phil Doncheck reported on the October 18 meeting with Area Superintendent James Carter, Auburn Principal Kristin Wilson, and  Auburn Asst. Principal Ronn Lyford concerning Academy weighted grades. James Carterıs recommendation to District Administration Cabinet is that Auburn will send its own weighted grades, only for AP courses, and only upon request from colleges. Currently, only a letter originally drafted by former Director Dr. Cheryl Peters and any teacher letters accompany transcripts to explain the Academy differentiated curriculum. Following discussion, among other suggestions, Marilyn will do an article for West newsletter to help families ³Choose Auburn Academy.²

Committee Reports

  • Directory - Pam reported only 70 registrants from King School. Martha Shula distributed a new membership form this week at King. Deadline for distribution has been postponed to mid-November.
  • District Meetings
  •        Parent Council: Jude Makulec: November 16 will be Reading Night. Linda Spangrud is offering a grant-writing course. Marilyn volunteered to attend. The Ingrassia Dictionary fund needs help; some dictionaries will be in Spanish. FOCUS Saturday at Cherry Vale Mall  was successful. Middle School times survey, initiated by West, will be distributed for parent input about the change this year. West Principal Mike Golden will arrange with his grades 6-8 peers for their participation.
  • Newsletter - will need to include the November 18 testing for West and Auburn Academies.

New Business

  1. New testing brochures have just been distributed for Academy and CAPA Testing. Academy will be Saturday, November 18 at Auburn for students currently in grades 8 - 11 and at West for grades 5 - 7.  For CAPA at Auburn: Saturday, November 4  from 9 a.m. - 12:00 noon; Tuesday, November 7, 3:45 p.m. - 5:15 p.m.
  2. Mike Golden announced IMSA Excellence 2000 at West. This is an after-school program for Illinois middle school students who are talented, interested and motivated in mathematics and science. More information  concerning recruitment will follow later in November.

Discussion included these topics:

  1. Supervisor search: principals will meet with Gary Bishop to amend the grant to use supervisor allocation for current expenses.
  2. Ruth Harrisıs letter to Research and Evaluation requesting  disaggregate Academy scores; Mike Golden will follow up.
  3. Strategic Plan update for newsletter.
  4. After achievement and attendance data are received, they will be included in informational packets for Dr. Brown and School Board members.
  5. A teacher liaison at PGE meetings would be good.
  6. Auburn Academy could use a Parent Info night to clarify weighted grades and college admissions.
  7. Mark Walter presented information about teacher support and ³renewal of teacher passion...a co-creation of parents, faculty, and administration.²  A copy of the book Courage to Teach is recommended for teachers. Mark and Terry will arrange to meet with principals.
  8. Marilyn distributed copies of  the Kulik paper to emphasize this is a research-based program.
  9. Terry announced he will speak on Friday, October 27, in Naperville, at a public hearing to help pass state legislation for increased funding and support for gifted education. Panel will be led by Il Rrepresentative Doug Hoeft.   

Meeting adjourned at 9:05 PM.

Next meeting will be Monday, November 20 at 6:30 p.m., West Middle School Library

Respectfully submitted, Terry James Mohaupt      



Minutes for Monday, November 20, 2000, West Middle School Library

Meeting was called to order at 6:33 PM by Terry Mohaupt

  • Attendance: Diane Neumann, Ruth Harris, Gary Wortham, Mike Golden, Linda Griffin, Marilyn Parrish, Jude Makulec, Leon Saul, Gary Bishop, Pam Wilson, Ronn Lyford, Tom Shula, Sue Christensen, and Terry Mohaupt
  • Minutes of October 23 meeting were approved.


Board Reports

1.
President: Terry James Mohaupt
A. On Oct. 27, Terry spoke at the Naperville public hearing on state legislation for gifted education funding. In 1999, the state provided $400 million for Special Ed, $20 million for Gifted Ed. With tobacco money coming to the state, Gifted Ed has an opportunity for an increase in funding. Sally Walker, Exec. Dir. of IAGC, also spoke, among others. Additional hearings will be Tuesday, Nov. 28, 11:00 a.m., in the Capitol in Springfield; and during the IAGC state convention on Feb. 4.
B. Terry met with Area Superintendent Jim Carter to discuss weighted grades at Auburn (cf. below) and the Program report card; Mr. Carter will follow up with Ruth Harris and Mary Lamping, General Director of Educational Accountability.
C. Terry met with Mary Lamping, who is having her staff collect data we need for report card.
 
2. Secretary: Thelma Busker resigned; Terry recorded minutes. Weıll need someone to replace her.

3. Treasurer: Leon Saul: 121 members; balance a/o 11/20/00: $1,819.37; deducted from this will be payment for directory printing; King PTO will reimburse for their share.

4. School Liaisons

A. King: Tom Shula (PTO Co-president, PGE Vice-president)
1) Blues singer Shirley King, daughter of BB King, performed Thursday 11/16 at King for Blues Day.
2) King ISAT scores for grade 4: Science 94 exceeded the state average 64; Social Science 89 (state average 59).

B. West: Pam Wilson
1) West feasibility steering committee has divided into subcommittees for study. The subcommittee studying the impact of West becoming a high school on current West students is chaired by Pam Wilson; it includes Deb Bailey, Mike Golden, Sidella Hughes, Terry Mohaupt, Debbie Reppen-Lucas, Leon Saul, Tom Shula, and David Sidney (Auburn senior). Architect Gary Anderson's presentation of 1997 feasibility study included two plans, approximately either $5 or $8 million. West will remain a middle school for the 2001-02 school year. According to the public announcement on Thursday, Nov. 16, Dr. Bueschel said the steering committee probably wonıt recommend changing West until after the 2002-03 school year.
2) West newsletter has a letter from Sue Christensen and statistics to encourage families to "Choose Auburn Academy."
3) The survey of families about the school schedule shows overwhelming response in favor of a return to the old times. Results will be presented through Parent Council to School Board.
4) The IMSA after-school no-fee program is now on track to present to School Board.
5) This grading period, 20 Academy students earned 4.0. School honor roll is 307= 54%; first quarter attendance is 94.2%.
6) Testing:
a) 117 students in grade 5 tested for 30 seats. 25 each in grades 6 & 7. 66 in grade 8.
b) West 8th graders tested during school hours. It was an example of the district working well, with cooperation setting up, bringing chairs, etc.
c) West will be the site of make-up testing beginning next year.
7) December 6, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Choice Open House.

C. Auburn
1)  Weighted grades discussion will be revisited; Area Superintendent James Carter will no longer be involved.  He and Superintendent Dr. Brown are ³leery of weighted grades.² Dr. Diane Neumann related her experience and recommendation against weighted grades.
2)  West staff offered to help Auburn staff write curriculum. Meeting Dec. 6 at 3:30  at Auburn. Curriculum committees have been active the last 1 1/2 years‹RVC dual-credit for calculus; working to Improve Jr. & Sr. offerings.
3)  Second semester all but a few 8th period classes will be dropped.
4)  Nov. 30, 5-7 PM Open House for new Tech Wing.
5)  Dec. 13, 7-8 PM, Choice Open House.
6)  Yale recruiter will come in the spring to only Auburn Academy.
7)  Academy student Melissa McVinn was praised for her art portfolio and science achievements in gaining a scholarship to Bradley.
8)  Marilyn reported Mrs. Longhenry provided the name of a graduate who could write a letter that can be used to help with recruitment.
9)  LouAnn Alberts of CAPA has worked on outreach and recruitment for the Academy.
10) Whitewater hosted a writing symposium attended by Academy students.
11) While Auburn has no debate team, it does have successful WYSE and Quiz Bowl teams.
12)  The November newsletter had an article about National merit Scholars and Illinois State Scholars. Terry will ask our secretary, Arlene Williams, to send congratulatory cards to them.

Committee Reports

1. Directory: Thanks to Andy Tatar, Audrey Salberg, Marilyn Parrish, Martha Shula, and Pam Wilson, itıs done! Pam delivered & picked up at printer. Copies were distributed at King and West; Gary Wortham will take Auburnıs.

2. District Meetings

A. Parent Council: Jude Makulec
1) Assessment Task Force study, with Mary Lamping, 967-8067; meeting Nov. 29, 5-7 PM, Roosevelt
2) Preparation and filing of 990 forms for non-profits

B. School Board: Tom Shula: Board has bigger things to worry about now than us.

3. Newsletter:Submissions forms were distributed at all schools and at the PGE meeting. One received so far. Deadline end of November, with publication scheduled for early December.

4. Public Relations: Marilyn Parrish
Marilyn arranged with School Board member Mike Williams for an appearance to discuss gifted education on WNTA radio with Chuck Diamond. Terry reported Paul Lizer agreed to be PGE spokesperson. PGE Board will meet with Mr. Williams before the WNTA appearance. Before that, we must get the demographic data. Ruth Harris will check with Mary Lamping.

Old Business

1.
Supervisor Search status: Gary Bishop: One applicant will be interviewed‹Dr. Trevor Steinbach of Batavia IL‹on Fri, Dec. 1, by Connie Carter, Ruth Harris, Kristin Wilson, Mike Golden, Ronn Lyford, Gary Wortham, and Terry Mohaupt.
2. Marilyn distributed a document showing the date of 1992 for the article she distributed last month, J. A. Kulikıs An Analysis of the Research on Ability Grouping: Historical and Contemporary Perspectives, from www.gifted.uconn, edu/resources.html9204

New Business

1. Grant - Gary Bishop reported he and Principals amended the grant to use supervisor-allocated funds for current expenses. Gary will seek official approval from Sue Kurtz, ISBE. Final submission of changes will depend upon if we hire a Supervisor this year.  
2. IAGC Convention, Chicago Marriott, Feb. 4-6, 2001; PGE Board decided not to send anyone this year. Terry has a brochure for any individual who is interested.
3. Teacher Renewal: Mark Walter will write an article for newsletter.
4. Marilyn Parrish checked on the grant-writing workshop with Linda Spangrud. There is a $20 fee. Mike Golden suggested she connect with a SIP team. Marilyn will follow up.

Meeting adjourned at 8:08 PM

Next meeting: Monday, Dec. 18 at 6:30 PM,
West Middle School Library
Respectfully submitted, Terry James Mohaupt



Minutes of meeting Monday, December 18, 2000, West Middle School Library

Meeting was called to order at 6:30 PM.
Attendance: Pam Wilson, Marilyn Parrish, Andy Tatar, Terry Mohaupt
Minutes of November 20 meeting were approved.

I. Board Reports

A. President: Terry James Mohaupt
1. Supervisor search update: Administrators who interviewed the most recent applicant will contact his references and meet after winter break to discuss the results.
2. Grant amendments: Spec. Ed. Director Gary Bishop will seek official approval from ISBE for gifted grant amendments after Supervisor decision is made.
B. Vice President: Tom Shula - absent, no report
C. Secretary: Arlene Williams, absent. Terry reported Arlene finished the congratulatory notes to Auburn National Merit kids. Motion was approved to include $2 Baskin Robbins gift certificates.
D. Treasurer: Leon Saul  - absent, Terry reported we will receive income from King PTO for their share of the Directory; expenses will include newsletter printing and postage. Terry received the checkbook from Leon to pay post office.
E. Publications: Andy Tatar
1. Newsletter - Andy and his son, Jeremy, distributed at King; Wednesday, Pam and family will meet at Terryıs to  seal & label for mail to West & Auburn. Deadline for next newsletter is March 30, for distribution before Spring Break.
2. Directory changes: Terry reported that Lynn and Rob Belles will contact those whose e-mail addresses need corrections.
F. At-large: Pam Wilson - The West Feasibility Study Committee has ended. The District has no money to make changes at West.
G. School Liaisons
   1. King: PTO meetings Jan. 8, Feb. 5
   2. West: PTO meetings Jan. 8, Feb. 5
   3. Auburn:
a. Booster Club meetings Jan. 9, Feb. 6.
b. Discussion
(1) After the question was raised, Terry will verify that Directories were distributed.
(2) Discussion about contacting families who withdrew students at Junior year to meet with other PGE parents.
(3) Inquire regarding Auburn soliciting an Advisory Committee of colleges and universities to collaborate with Auburn regarding the Academy curriculum, provide curriculum in advance to their representatives, with a goal of meeting in the Spring when the Yale recruiter visits the Academy. Possible members might include representatives of U of I, Rockford College, and Yale.

II. Committee Reports

A. District Meetings
   1. Parent Council: Jude Makulec - absent - no report
   2. School Board: Tom Shula - absent - no report
B. Public Relations - Marilyn Parrish
1. WNTA radio appearance needs to be before Choice deadline. Terry will contact Ruth Harris to see if we can use current data; then arrange a planning meeting with School Board member Mike Williams, Paul Lizer, and Ruth to prepare for Chuck Diamondıs show.
2. Testimonial letters - Marilyn brought supportive documents  from Sarah Christensen and Britt Lundgren that can be used to promote the program. PGE thanks both students for helping in the efforts to tell others why they should ³Choose the Auburn Academy.²
3. Statistics - Terry shared correspondence from Educational Accountability on what Ruth Harris has received already and what still needs to be received. Motion for PGE to pay $125 to ACT for Academy data was approved.

III. Old Business

A. Grant-writing session - Marilyn - reported the session will be after the first of the year, and the usual $20 fee has been waived for her.
B. PGE Web Page - Mark Walter & Andy Tatar  - Terry reported Mark Walter will contact Andy  to update the site.

IV. New Business

A. Potential financial cuts made by the board and implications for our students
1. Might the Academy  cut courses? Terry will contact Auburn curriculum committee re plans for juniors and seniors if periods are cut to 6.
2. We need to explore increasing ³seamless education.² Rock Valley, NIU, ISU, Rockford College, and others may have options.
B. Testing, March 10, 2001, Auburn, grades K-4: brochures will go out in January; Pam Wilson volunteered to chair refreshments committee and contact volunteers from the registration day list.
C. Teacher Appreciation in Spring - volunteer chair & list. Select date? - No action taken.
D. Teacher Renewal - Mark Walter - absent - no report

Meeting Adjourned at 7:59 PM.

No meeting in January.
Next meeting:
    Monday, February, 19, 2001 F 6:30 PM
    West Middle School Library



DATE:    January 23, 2001
TO:           School Board members, Public School District 205

As a parent group of children who are attending District 205 schools, we met on Sunday, January 21, 2001, and agreed on the following:

  1. We appreciate the difficult task you had in your plan for the districtıs financial problem.
  2. We applaud your approval of a referendum asking taxpayers for an increase. We think only 58 cents per $100 equalized assessed valuation for three years is not enough. Please reconsider a higher rate. Even with that increase, our property taxes will be lower than they have been for a decade. We encourage every taxpayer in the community to support this referendum and vote yes on April 3.
  3. We applaud your refusal at last weekıs meeting to cut the secondary school day from seven to six hours. We have seen the impact study by the districtıs curriculum department of a six-period day with a sample college-bound schedule and a sample tech-prep schedule. With the limits for fine arts electives, a fine arts program like CAPA would die. Rock Valley College cannot handle the overflow of all of the high school students trying to attend more courses for high school credit; and RVC credit is not accepted at all universities. We wonder about teachersı union negotiations of a six-hour day. If such a reduction does become a matter for discussion, we have several suggestions for alternatives, such as an 8 period by 4 day plan, flex scheduling, block scheduling per semester as in Naperville, a six-day rotation schedule such as at a local private school, or reducing only middle schools to six periods. There is a need for more high-end courses. Colleges are demanding more, not less. As our treasurer, Leon Saul, wrote to you, ³The loss of even one course offering places our seniors at a disadvantage in competing for college admissions and scholarships.²
  4. We applaud your refusal to eliminate athletics and other extracurricular activities. We support increasing fees and recruiting community-based support.
  5. We do not support the elimination of ten secondary assistant principals. Problems include very real risks to student safety, jeopardizing high school accreditation, and supplanting fund 10 positions with fund 12 positions, which would be a legal matter for the Master to address. We also have concerns about many of the other positions that were eliminated, apparently without considering their impact.    
  6. While we know closing schools is an unpopular choice, we do not support maintaining the mortar and bricks of elementary schools at less than capacity at the expense of educational programs under the guise of hoping for neighborhood schools . We have seen the inequitable censuses, with elementary schools with 199 to 737 students. By using our elementary resources at or near capacity, we will be able to maintain the academic integrity of our secondary schools. A quality education is housed not within the building, but comes from the strength of the academic program.
  7. We support investigating other sources of income. These would include tuition from other schools in the private sector for high-end and AP courses needed and taught in the public schools, and night courses at Roosevelt; state and federal grant options; corporation support‹for example internships‹and funding of courses at schools. It is to their benefit to support public education.


The whole community depends upon the value of education.
We submit these ideas to the board in the spirit of partnership.

Parents for Gifted Education


For further information, please contact
Terry James Mohaupt, President
399-8432



Minutes of Meeting Monday, February 19, 2001, West Middle School Library
 
Meeting was Called to Order at 6:34 p.m.
Attendance: Ruth Harris, Gary Bishop, Leon Saul, Lori Gassaway, Bob Algie, Jude Makulec, Gary Wortham, Pam Wilson, Linda Griffin, Marilyn Ross, Mark Walter, Mike Golden, Marilyn Parrish, Arlene Williams, Andy Tatar, Terry Mohaupt
Minutes of December 18, 2000, meeting were approved.

I. Board Reports
A. President: Terry James Mohaupt
1.
P.E.A.C.E. (Partners Educating All Children Equitably), a coalition of citizens concerned about the state of District 205 schools, has recently formed. P.E.A.C.E. supports an effective and equitable quality educational program for District 205 schools.
For more information on the meeting and P.E.A.C.E., contact Frank Moyer 965-1817.
2.
Federal Funding
For gifted education advocates, the first step to securing specific funding for the state grants [GTSEA] is to obtain as many cosponsors for the state grant bill [GTSEA] as possible. The more Members of Congress that we have officially signed on the bill, the stronger our argument that the program  should not be included in a block grant.
GTSEA being introduced in February/March
On Tuesday, February 6. Representative Elton Gallegly (CA-23) introduced H.R. 490, the Gifted & Talented Students Education Act of 2001.  The Senate bill will be introduced by Senator Charles Grassley (Iowa) within the next couple of weeks.
Send a letter to your Representative, urging him to become a cosponsor of H.R. 490.
Contact info was e-mailed and copies were on a table.
3.
Tuesday, Feb. 6, Terry Mohaupt and  Pam Wilson met with Deputy Superintendent Dr. Ellen Bueschel, Special Ed. Director Gary Bishop, and Curriculum Director Linell Lasswell to discuss the impact of reducing secondary schools to six periods, in order to provide suggestions and alternatives that administration can present to the school board.
4.
Kudos to PGE PR Chair Paul Lizer and King School parent Ray Thompson for the fine job they did last Friday with School Board member Mike Williams on WNTA radio with Chuck Diamond. They came through for the Gifted Program to share with the community in a position that was made more difficult when Gifted Program Psychologist Ruth Harris was not able to be there, as originally scheduled, because of a communication gap (which emphasizes the need for a full-time program supervisor). They deserve a lot of credit!
5.
The reference checks on the candidate for Gifted Program Supervisor we interviewed last month were positive. We have invited him back for a second interview to discuss money and job description. If that goes well, he will be offered the position, to begin next school year, 2001-2002. I'll advise you.
6.
DATE:  January 23, 2001
TO:  School Board members, Rockford Public School District 205
As a parent group of children who are attending District 205 schools, we met on Sunday, January 21, 2001, and agreed on the following:
We appreciate the difficult task you had in your plan for the districtıs financial problem.
We applaud your approval of a referendum asking taxpayers for an increase. We think only 58 cents per $100 equalized assessed valuation for three years is not enough. Please reconsider a higher rate. Even with that increase, our property taxes will be lower than they have been for a decade. We encourage every taxpayer in the community to support this referendum and vote yes on April 3.
We applaud your refusal at last weekıs meeting to cut the secondary school day from seven to six hours. We have seen the impact study by the districtıs curriculum department of a six-period day with a sample college-bound schedule and a sample tech-prep schedule. With the limits for fine arts electives, a fine arts program like CAPA would die. Rock Valley College cannot handle the overflow of all of the high school students trying to attend more courses for high school credit; and RVC credit is not accepted at all universities. We wonder about teachersı union negotiations of a six-hour day. If such a reduction does become a matter for discussion, we have several suggestions for alternatives, such as an 8 period by 4 day plan, flex scheduling, block scheduling per semester as in Naperville, a six-day rotation schedule such as at a local private school, or reducing only middle schools to six periods. There is a need for more high-end courses. Colleges are demanding more, not less. As our treasurer, Leon Saul, wrote to you, ³The loss of even one course offering places our seniors at a disadvantage in competing for college admissions and scholarships.²
We applaud your refusal to eliminate athletics and other extracurricular activities. We support increasing fees and recruiting community-based support.
We support investigating other sources of income. These would include tuition from other schools in the private sector for high-end and AP courses needed and taught in the public schools, and night courses at Roosevelt; state and federal grant options; corporation support‹for example internships and funding of courses at schools. It is to their benefit to support public education.
The whole community depends upon the value of education.
We submit these ideas to the board in the spirit of partnership.
7.
Friday, Jan. 19, District Curriculum Director Linell Lasswell met with parents Marilyn Parrish and Sue Christensen. They discussed alternatives for when the change from 7 to 6 periods will weaken the senior rigorous courses that selective colleges look for in top students in their selection process. Results and samples will be used in the discussion with Dr. Bueschel, with recommendations to go to school board.
8.
The Jan. 14, PGE position paper appeared in the Rockford Register Star. Leon Saul wrote a wonderful letter to the school board, clearly explaining some of the details of our points. I shared it with Dr. Brown.
Terry  received replies from Ted Biondo, Dr. Brown, and Jim Jennings about the cuts.
I think Jim is a class act, who said it's never been about him personally, but about serving the children and the community.
Dr. Brown believes the Communications Director is needed, and will work with the board to refine the list.
Ted Biondo was more pessimistic: if the referendum doesn't pass, other reductions will have to be made. The 7 to 6 periods and 91 corresponding positons will be RIF'ed.
Ted's comments about Communications were: the position needs an IT web designer to do the web page, and "any one person can be the spokesperson for the district...Many in the media say that the director was not open with them...the Freedom of Information Ace was used too many times to delay information from getting to the media. A better communications channel needs to be opened to the people...not to keep info on the QT...channel 20 is not being utilized to the fullest extent...None of these decisions were easy. I personally like all the people in the positions which were eliminated...many will probably stay with the district in some other capacity, since they are cdertified teachers, principals, etc., and we have a shortage in those areas, also. I appreciate your input."   
9.
Mark Walter will prepare something about Teacher Renewal that we can get started on soon. He also will get with Andy about the new web page, much more exciting, lots of good ideas that might include streaming video, or as simple as photos of students and teachers with captions. Sounds exciting.
10.
I still haven't found anyone to take up the teacher appreciation party. I'll keep trying. What do you think of the idea of awarding something (certificate, pin, etc.) for five years of service, ten years, fifteen, twenty, etc., at a ceremony?
11.
Looking ahead:
March - set up a nominating committee for candidates to be next year's officers;
April - nominating committee submit a slate of officers;
May - annual meeting to elect new officers for next year.
Congratulations to everyone!
We came together as a group and created very clear position papers that were sent via e-mail to all school board members and one was presented to them in person at a meeting. The Rockford Register Star also published a copy.
We may all be proud of this good job!
12.
Marilyn Parrish of Auburn requested that whenever a parent has something positive to express about a teacher from a conference or anything else that the parent put it in writing to the appropriate administrator.
13.
Other points: Support the referendum, even if it is inadequate now. Otherwise there will be more cuts.  Terry provided buttons, info sheets and ideas cards. Support new school board candidates.
14.
Applaud Emily Williams, David Sidney for speaking at last weekıs school board meeting against cutting to 6-period day.
15.
Last Wednesday: Rockford Register Star roundtable included Pam Wilson, Amanda and Jude Makulec, and David Sidney.
16.
Digital Divide is growing, especially with PGE communication more by e-mail. What should we do?

B. Vice President: Tom Shula - no report
C. Secretary: Arlene Williams - no report
D. Treasurer: Leon Saul

  • PREVIOUS BALANCE: $1008.77
  • INCOME: member donations $100 + King PTO for Directory $423.72=$523.72
  • EXPENSES: Newsletter: postage $150, printing $337; copying $16.50; total $503.50
  • ENDING BALANCE: $1028.99 plus another $20
  • MEMBER COUNT 122

E. Publications: Andy Tatar
F. At-large: Pam Wilson
G. School
Liaisons
1. King: Next PTO meeting: Tuesday, March 6: Scheduled: referendum speaker Tom Lester and Mike Wiser of Register Star. Leon Saul reported that at least two parents had expressed concern that the coursework in one grade level is not uniform among all classes. That concern was raised by the parents to Principal, Mrs. Carter, who is handling it with all the teachers at that grade level.  For any teacher within the Gifted program, PGE encouraged the staff present at the meeting to provide a supportive network among the teachers to mentor a new teacher.
2. West: Next PTO meeting: Monday, March 12. Principal Mike Golden reported that registration would begin this week. He said students would list their course choices in rank order. Discussion of flexible schedule. Sixth grade girlsı basketball team has a GPA of 3.24 and a season record of 10-1! Feb. 28, 4:30-9 will be REBA.
3. Auburn: Gary Wortham reported that the same courses will be offered in one less period per day. Senior Seminar is not available. CISCO is privately funded. With reduced periods, it is essential to plan ahead in order to avoid missing a required course. Discussion of PGE planning to inform the public of other options approved through Instructional Council and Curriculum Department for students. Ruth Harris advised there is some money to print a brochure. Terry will arrange a meeting with Linell Lasswell. Others who agreed to participate are Arlene Williams, Marilyn Ross, Marilyn Parrish, Jude Makulec, and Gary Bishop.

II. Committee Reports

A. District Meetings
1. Parent Council: Jude Makulec  reported on Coke products, RAMP programs, and League of Women Voters forum. A Task Force and Action Teams for Truancy/Attendance; phone 966-3129. District 11.9% v. state 2.4% truancy. It is essential for parents to advise schools to correct absence errors so District will not lose money. 70% of freshmen graduate; 40% go on to college. Vendor Fair, April 17, 5-7 p.m. at West.School board candidate Forum March 20, 7 p.m. at Eisenhower. October 20, FOCUS.
2. School Board: Tom Shula  Feb. 27 next School Board meeting

B. Public Relations - Paul Lizer - no report

III. Old Business
A. Grant-writing session - Marilyn Parrish reported Linda Spangrud has a library of grant information in her office, third floor of the Administration building.
B. Gifted Supervisor search - Gary Bishop reported a second interview is being arranged with a candidate.

IV. New Business

  • Testing, March 10, 2001, Auburn, grades K-4: brochures in January; AM volunteers for coffee and speakers (adults & kids) to address parents & answer questions in the auditorium  Ruth Harris reported 150 students will test; good response at Kindergarten on-site testing.
  • Teacher Appreciation in Spring - need: chair, volunteer coordinator, select date, site, and theme. Jude Makulec agreed to do site research and report at next meeting.
  • Marilyn Ross introduced discussion about homework concerns. PGE will publish in the next newsletter a survey to determine what parents want at each grade level, where students do homework, why families plan to leave the program, etc.
  • Teacher Renewal - Mark Walter reported plans to celebrate teachers and students, on the website and in other ways, possibly using the book, Courage to Teach. Details include Terry and Mark meeting with principals first, then a few teachers, possibly to present to all gifted staff during the SIP half day on May 4. More information can be found on www.teacherformation.org.   
  • PGE response to the 6-period-day vote: telephone school board members, especially Williams and Bliss. Support new candidates. At Feb. 27 school board meeting, recruit lots of people with signs and kids; contact other high schools.
  • March 19, PGE meeting--invite administrators to discuss AP courses and the 6-period day? No: cf. plans to meet with Linell Lasswell.
  • Terry announced plan to select a Nominating committee at the March meeting to seek candidates for next year's PGE board.
  • Plan to set up a buddy system for new families entering the program. Request volunteers in next newsletter.
  • PGE Web Page - Mark Walter & Andy Tatar - Gary Wortham gave Mark the names of three Auburn students who may help

Meeting Adjourned 10:05 p.m.
Next meeting:
Monday, March 19, 2001, at 6:30 PM, West Middle School Library
Respectfully submitted,
Terry James Mohaupt




Minutes for Monday, March 19, 2001, West Middle School Library

Meeting was called to order at 6:35 p.m.
In attendance were: Alex Griffin, Marilyn Parrish, Leon Saul, Jude Makulec, Tom Shula, Mike Golden, Mark Walter, Terry Mohaupt
Minutes of February 19, 2001, were reviewed & approved.

I. Board Reports

  • President: Terry James Mohaupt thanked all for coming.
  • Vice President: Tom Shula - no report
  • Secretary: Arlene Williams - no report
  • Treasurer: Leon Saul: Beginning balance $1,028.99; Expense: juice & supplies for March testing: $13.51; ending balance: $1,015.48. 122 members.
  • Publications: Andy Tatar - Satisfaction survey in newsletter
  • At-large: Pam Wilson

School Liaisons
1.
King: letter from staff: Terry will respond with a letter to King staff.
2. West: 4/17 Vendor fair, 5-7 pm at West, followed by PTO. .
3. Auburn: no report

II. Standing Committee Reports
A. District Meetings
1. Parent Council: Jude Makulec: Vendor Fair at West (cf. above). More vendors are sought, @ $75 per booth.
2. School Board: Tom Shula: Thanks to Arrin Akre, Susannah Mohaupt, Amanda and Jude Makulec, and Mike Renestadt for speaking at the Feb. 27 meeting in favor of keeping the 7-period day.
 
B. Public Relations - Paul Lizer: no report

III. Action Committee Reports

  • Gifted Supervisor search - Terry for Gary Bishop reported the candidate declined our offer. After the election we will need volunteers for a Search Committee to be more aggressive. See newsletter article.
  • Teacher Appreciation - Jude Makulec: After research and a survey of teachers, the event will be at Anderson Gardens on May 17, from approximately 3:30-5:30 p.m. Auburn jazz band will entertain. This is the same date WEST will have its new student orientation in the evening. Parent volunteers will supply food. Contact Nancy Baliga.
  • Teacher Renewal - Mark Walter: Two program teachers will retire at the end of this year. Add a checkbox on the PGE membership registration form for specific donation for Teacher Appreciation. Parker Palmerıs Courage to Teach book will be used ina long-range program for teacher renewal. Next steps will be: Terry and Mark will meet with principals, then staff of each building, Ann Rundall, Director of District Staff Development, and with all staff at the SIP Day on May 4; compile program outcomes of colleges, test scores, etc.; approach businesses for money.   
  • Gifted legislation - Arlene & Terry: We e-mailed people to telephone and write Senators Durbin and Fitzgerald and Representative Manzullo to support bills HR490 and S421 for gifted education. Earl Williams went to Washington, D.C., and hand-delivered letters to Senator Fitzgerald and Representativde Manzullo with the names of over sixty members.


IV. Old Business

  • Meeting with Linell Lasswell - Jude Makulec & Marilyn Parrish: Discussion included opinion that 6-period day is bad for middle school students. Suggestions included using a grant or parents to fund teachers. Terry will ask Gary Bishop to encourage Mrs. Laswell to continue to explore alternatives. For high school, PGE will publish information in the next newsletter with details about Rock Valley College dual credit courses; encouraging families to get the RVC catalog and a high school course guide; petition for permit to take up to 4 classes of correspondence courses before students take the classes. RVC will pay for the course, but not supplies. Next fall, RVC will begin on-site at Auburn, including #101 Composition. RVC requires an entrance test; this should be done in May before summer classes. Telephone 654-4285 to arrange for the test; page 16 of RVC catalog. Must be age 16 or obtain a waiver.
  • Testing of March 10 - Terry thanked staff who helped administer tests; Pam Wilson who organized Jill Saul, Martha Shula, and Melissa Reyes to serve refreshments; & speakers Ruth Harris, Susan Lindvall, and Hillary and Abby Mohaupt. Terry reported many concerns from parents who may not get into the program. See V.C.
  • Barnum: CAPA musical March 17, two performances at West. Congratulations to CAPA staff and students.


V. New Business
A. 3/20, 5:pm curriculum committee of school board meeting, board room. Marilyn and others will attend, to express concerns about proposed dangers of changes to late start for middle and high schools.

B. Election April 3
1. Forums:
a. 3/20, Eisenhower school board candidates forum.
b. 3/28, Auburn high school student organized school board candidates forum will be in the atrium. Alex Griffin requested sponsorship money. PGE approved $35. Leon wrote the check.  
2. Members were encouraged to support school board candidates and the referendum by helping with telephone calling and walking door-to-door

C. Resources for students on waiting list or not in program: Discussion of strategies included: organizing families who tested; involving them through our newsletter; and asking Dr. Eubanks to waive requirements after good-faith efforts.
D. Spring college admissions officers meeting (Yale, etc.): no action.
E. New standing committee? - volunteer coordinator needed. Discussion.
F. Proposal for CAPA/Arts group with Auburn & other high schools. Terry will follow up with George Harnish of Auburn CAPA.
G. Nominating Committee for 2001-02 PGE Board candidates - Tom Shula accepted as committee of one.
H. PGE approved official endorsement of the referendum.

Meeting adjourned at 9:10 p.m.
Next meeting:
Monday, April 23, 2001, at 6:30 PM, West Middle School Library.
Come early at 5:15 to help move WEST trophies.



Minutes for Monday, April 23, 2001 , West Middle School Library

Meeting was called to order by Terry Mohaupt at 6:32 p.m.

Attendance: Leon Saul, Linell Lasswell, Jude Makulec, Pam Wilson, Arlene Williams, Marilyn Parrish,  Tom Shula, Linda Patterson, Ruth L. Haris, Gary Bishop, Gary Wortham, Sue Christensen, Martha Shula, and Terry Mohaupt

Minutes of March 19, 2001 were reviewed & approved.

I. Board Reports

  • President: Terry James Mohaupt: Welcomed all who came, and recognized guest, Linda Patterson.
  • Vice President: Tom Shula: cf. King report below.
  • Secretary: Arlene Williams: cf. curriculum report below
  • Treasurer: Leon Saul: Beginning balance $1,015.48. Expenses of $35 for Auburn forum, and $90 for Anderson Gardens. Ending balance $890.48.
  • Publications: for Andy Tatar, Terry showed the draft of the newsletter, which will be distributed next month.
  • At-large: Pam Wilson shared her research on the schedules of outlying districts, which will be presented to the school board on Tuesday: Belvidere has 7 periods with an optional 8th for retaking failed classes, requiring more than Dist. 205ıs 44 credits; Byron has 8 periods in a block schedule, with 50 credits plus the PE requirement for graduation; Hononegah has 7 periods with 46 credits required; Winnebago has 7 periods with 44 credits (same at Dist. 205).

School Liaisons
1.
King: Tom Shula reported King school boysı and girlsı REBA champions basketball teams and cheerleaders will be honored at the school board meeting on April 24. He shared his letter to the Rockford Register Star. Next PTO meeting will be Monday, April 7.
2. West: high school trophies will move into memorabilia room, leaving space in showcases for middle school trophies. IMSA will visit Lockwood Observatory on Saturday, April 28, and Chicagoıs Museum of Science and Industry on May 8. May 10 evening concert/ice cream social/art show. May 11, PTO and Renaissance will provide Decadent Desserts for teachers; Jill Saul arranged volunteers.
3. Auburn: Gary Wortham praised students for their involvement in the school board candidate forum. Asbestos is still a consideration in the auditorium.

II. Standing Committee Reports

A. District Meetings
1. Parent Council - Jude Makulec: Vendor Fair was successful; onemore meeting.
2. School Board - Tom Shula: cf. new business below.
3. Curriculum - Linell Lasswell: Dual credit information is now in all high school registration booklets. Gary Wortham advised that all counselors need to insure students get them. Sue Christensen reported RVC capacity limits, registration should be done in May, RVC visits high schools. Dual credit will require a lot of parent planning to schedule and be more flixible and creative. Grade appears on transcript but does not count toward GPA.. Textbooks can cost $50-100 or more each, which students must pay. Transportation is the familyıs responsibility. Those who qualify for free or reduced lunch may take AP reviews free.

B. Public Relations - Paul Lizer: no report

III. Action Committee Reports

  • Gifted Supervisor search - Gary Bishop announced he wants to meet with parent volunteers for a search committee. Discussion about the programıs future included information that there is no plan yet; with districtıs unitary status, changes may be made regarding such issues as expanding and CAPA, and including parent recommendations. Linda Patterson  (former Ellis Principal and West gifted teacher) will help Gary until June 30, doing research. Gary and Ruth will look at the past for what worked, discuss with administration, then come back to include parents.
  • Teacher Appreciation - Jude Makulec: May 17, 4-6 p.m., Anderson Gardens. Gary Wortham will check for conflict on May 17, when Auburn faculty will have a meeting after school. Dana Beekman from King added to invitation list. Nancy Baliga telephoned volunteers for food; nine parents have volunteered to provide food. Two members presented Treasurer Leon Saul with checks to help cover additional costs.
  • Teacher Renewal - Terry reported that on May 9 and May 14, he and Mark Walter will provide information to King faculty about the Courage to Teach book and program.
  • Nominating committee for 2001-02 PGE Board - Tom Shula reported no one new to nominate for board positions.


IV. Old Business
Recruitment and testing - Ruth Harris: Kindergarten on-site produced three more kids; few minorities tested. Linda Patterson discussed minority recruitment, related to the way Dr. Cheryl Peters (former Gifted Director) acted: meeting with churches, etc. A broader plan is needed; preschool program/kindergarten; contact local minority leaders.

V. New Business

  • School Board may vote for 6 or 7 period day, Tuesday, April 24. Students and parents will appear for public comment. Linell Lasswell reported that middle school principals are in favor of 7-period day after one year of 6 periods. Discussion followed.
  • May 4 SIP Day - Dr. Susan Udelhoffen will meet with all three site staffs at Auburn for curriculum mapping. Then she will follow up with King staff on June 20.
  • Ruth Harris reported IAGC will sponsor Outreach on June 18, for elementary in morning, and secondary in afternoon. Parents are welcome.
  • Linda Patterson suggested calling ISBE about a school board memberıs threat to a PGE member about voting a certain way even before a vote will be taken.


Meeting adjourned at 9:02 p.m.
Next meeting: Monday, May 21, 2001, at 6:30 PM, West Middle School Library.
Respectfully submitted, Terry James Mohaupt