The Presiding Officer will call the meeting to order at 5:45 p.m. before the Board Recesses to Closed Session.  The Regular Meeting will convene by 7:15 p.m. 

Persons wishing to address the Board should fill out a green speaker card.  Cards turned in by 5:30 p.m. will be given priority. Speakers will be randomly selected based on topic and position, with BUSD students generally given priority. Public Testimony is limited to 15 minutes with a 3-minute limit per speaker per topic although the time allotted per speaker may be reduced to 2 minutes at the discretion of the President. 

The Board may recess into Closed Session before or after the public meeting under the authority of the Brown Act (including but not limited to Government Code section 54954.5, 54956.8, 54956.9, 54957, 54957.6, as well as Education Code section 35146).  Under Government Code section 54954.3, members of the public may address the board on an item on the Closed Session agenda, before Closed Session.

11.  Board Member and Superintendent Comments
       Board members and the Superintendent are given the opportunity to address  
       any issue.

12.  Consent Calendar
12.1 Approval of Human Resources Reports
12.2 Approval of Listing of Warrants Issued in August 2016
12.3 Approval of Payroll Warrants Issued in September 2016
12.4 Acceptance of Gifts/Donations
12.5 Approval of Contracts/Purchase Orders for Services Contracts
12.6 Approval of Contract with the Department of Rehabilitation 
12.7 Approve an Increase in Contract with Hibser Yamauchi (HY) Architect for the Oxford Modernization Project
12.8 Accept the Completion of the Cragmont Replace Flooring and Paint Project
12.9 Approval of Overnight Field Trip Requests
12.10 Career Technical Education (CTE) Advisory Committee
12.11 2016-17 Parent Advisory Committee Members for the Local Control and Accountability 
12.12 School Class Size Report
12.13 Approval of Board of Education Meeting Minutes for October 5, 2016

13. Discussion Items
13.1 2016-17 Student Enrollment Update 
13.2 Instructional Technology Initiatives for 2016-17
13.3 District Savings Due to Strong Fiscal Management of Facility Bond Funds

14. Information Items
14.1 Update on Beginning Teacher Induction Program 
14.2 Board Policy 6200: Adult Education (First Reading)
14.3 Local Control Accountability Plan (LCAP) Implementation Update

15. Open Session Public Testimony (2nd Opportunity)
Persons wishing to address the Board should fill out a green speaker card. Cards turned in for the earlier open session public testimony will be given priority.  Speakers will be randomly selected based on topic and position, with BUSD students generally given priority.  Public Testimony is limited to 15 minutes with a 3-minute limit per speaker per topic although the time allotted per speaker may be reduced to 2 minutes at the discretion of the President.

16. Extended Board Member and Superintendent Comments
Board members and the Superintendent are given the opportunity to address any issue.

17. Board Meeting Self-Evaluation
With the end goal of improving efficiency and providing quality governance in conducting the business of the school District, a member of the Board will conduct a quick review of the Board meeting to assess compliance with adopted norms, procedures and protocols

The following evaluative questions will be used to guide this discussion:

To what degree did we . . .
• frame agenda items with an introduction and a closure summary?
• allot time to agenda items proportionate to complexity, critical impact and timeline deadlines?
• address the fundamental problem at the root of issues, not just the symptoms?
• model mutual respect, effective interpersonal communication and civility?
18. Adjournment

Persons wishing to address the Board should fill out a green speaker card.  Cards turned in by 7:00 p.m. will be given priority.        

Speakers will be randomly selected based on topic and position, with BUSD students generally given priority.  Public Testimony is limited to 30 minutes with a 3-minute limit per speaker per topic although the time allotted per speaker may be reduced to 2 minutes at the discretion of the President. 

Board members and the Superintendent are given the opportunity to address any issue.  

BERKELEY UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT 

TO:  Donald Evans, Ed.D., Superintendent
FROM:  Lisa Van Thillo, Assistant Superintendent, Human Resources
DATE:            October 19, 2016
SUBJECT: Approval of Human Resources Reports

BACKGROUND INFORMATION:
On a regular basis, staff presents Human Resources Reports listing employment actions for the Board to approve officially. Please refer to attached reports for details.

BERKELEY UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT

TO:             Donald Evans, Ed.D., Superintendent
FROM:          Pauline E. Follansbee, Director of Fiscal Services
DATE:         October 19 , 2016
SUBJECT:   Approve Listing of Warrants issued in September 2016

BACKGROUND INFORMATION:
Each month the District writes several checks to vendors for services provided and goods received. The checks are written against both the Restricted and Unrestricted General Fund. The summaries of warrants for the month of September is attached for the Board’s review.

POLICY/CODE:
Educational Code Section 41010 et seq. 

FISCAL IMPACT:
$6,740,723.71 for the month of September 2016 from various funds.  

STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Approve the monthly bill warrant list for the month of September 2016.

BERKELEY UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT

TO:              Donald Evans, Ed.D., Superintendent
FROM:        Pauline Follansbee, Director of Fiscal Services
DATE:          October 19, 2016
SUBJECT:  Approval of Payroll Warrants Issued in September 2016 

BACKGROUND INFORMATION:
On a regular basis, the Board receives information on the total amount paid employees during a month.  The attached represents a summary of pay warrants from various funds for the month of September 2016.

POLICY/CODE:
Educational Code 41010 et seq.

FISCAL IMPACT:
$10,464970.78 for September 2016 from various funds.

STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Approve payroll payments made in September 2016.

BERKELEY UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT

TO:         Donald Evans, Ed.D., Superintendent
FROM:      Javetta Cleveland, Deputy Superintendent
DATE:         October 19, 2016 
SUBJECT:    Acceptance of Gifts/Donations

BACKGROUND INFORMATION:
The Board may accept and utilize on behalf of the District gifts of money or property for a purpose deemed to be suited by the Board.  The following donations have been presented to the District: 

1. Philanthropic Ventures Foundation donated $1,000 for kindergarten student field trip transportation cost and $500 to purchase language and communication materials for a total donation of $1,500 for Rosa Parks School. 
2. Philanthropic Ventures Foundation donated $1,000 for third grade student field trip transportation cost for Thousand Oaks School. 
3. Thousand Oaks PTA donated $13,000 to purchase technology equipment and $2,500 to purchase office supplies for a total donation of $15,500 for Thousand Oaks School.
4. AT&T donated $40 through the Your Cause Corporate Employee Giving Program to be utilized as needed for Thousand Oaks School.
5. Cotteco donated $290.50 to be utilized as needed for Thousand Oaks School.
6. Veritas donated $760 through their Employee Engagement Fund to be utilized as needed for Jefferson School.
7. Genentech, Inc. donated $250 through The Benevity Community Impact Fund to be utilized as needed for Thousand Oaks School.

 BOARD POLICY:
 BP 3290 

 FISCAL IMPACT:
 The District received a total $ 19,340.50 in donations.

STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Accept the donations to the District and request staff to extend letters of appreciation. 

BERKELEY UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT

TO:             Donald Evans, Ed. D., Superintendent
FROM:        Javetta Cleveland, Deputy Superintendent
DATE:         October 19, 2016
SUBJECT:  Approval of Contracts/Purchase Orders for Services Contracts

BACKGROUND INFORMATION:
The District contracts with consultants or independent contractors who can provide valuable and necessary specialized services not normally required on a continuing basis. The following contract services are requested. Expenditures are within budget.

1. Cash Leasing & Copier Sales, to provide lease of 3 copiers for Berkeley Adult School for the 2016/17 SY. The cost will not exceed $19,020. To be paid from Adult Education Fund. Requested by Thomas Reid.
2. Lisa Krones-Whalen, to provide art instruction coaching for Rosa Parks Visual Arts for the period from 8/30/16-6/16/17. The cost will not exceed $10,000. To be paid from Restricted PTA Donation and BSEP Measure A Fund. Requested by Peter Gidlund.
3. YMCA  of the Central Bay Area, to provide physical education activities for three preschool sites for the period from 8/30/16-6/2/17. The cost will not exceed $11,592. To be paid from BSEP Measure A Fund. Requested by Maria Carriedo.
4. Anna Rainer, to provide visual art integration coaching at Oxford Elementary School for the period from 8/23/16-6/16/17. The cost will not exceed $27,034. To be paid from Restricted PTA Donation and BSEP Measure A Fund. Requested by Peter Gidlund.
5. Increase in contract, to Shoreline Environmental to provide emergency mold abatement services for Thousand Oaks Elementary. The Board approved $22,000 on 9/21/16. The additional contract amount will increase the cost by $5,000 for a total amount of $27,000. To be paid from Measure I. Requested by Timothy E. White.
6. Increase in contract, to Verde Design Inc to provide a feasibility study for Berkeley High School tennis courts . The Board approved $40,000 on 9/7/16. The additional contract amount will increase the cost by $5,000 for a total amount of $45,000. To be paid from Measure AA. Requested by Timothy E. White.
7. Kalen Meyer, to provide after school enrichment classes at Jefferson Elementary School for the period from 9/7/16-6/17/17. The cost will not exceed $10,224. To be paid from PTA Donations. Requested by Aaron Jorgensen.
   

POLICY/CODE:
Public Contract Code: 20111
Board Policy 3310

STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Approve the contracts with Consultants or Independent Contractors as submitted.

BERKELEY UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT 

TO: Donald Evans, Ed. D., Superintendent
FROM:      Pasquale Scuderi, Assistant Superintendent, Educational Services
Tom Reid, Principal, Berkeley Adult ?School
DATE:    October 19, 2016
SUBJECT:   Termination of Contract with the Department of Rehabilitation

For many years, Berkeley Adult School (BAS) has held a contract with the Department of Rehabilitation (DOR) for job placement of DOR clients. The size of the contract is controlled largely by the amount of matching funds, both in-kind and cash, that the contracting organization (BAS) can put up. The current three year contract (7/1/15 - 6/30/18) is for $108,000 per year. BAS claims the cost of in-kind staff time to meet the matching funds requirement. DOR grant funds are used to pay for one FTE classified staff person and modest operating expenses at BAS.

Federal rules for this contract have now changed to the extent that much of our current match of primarily supervisory and budget analyst time can no longer be counted. To maintain this contract of $108,000 annually, BUSD/BAS would need to contribute a cash match of $36,000 annually.

Staff does not believe this is at present an effective use of District/BAS funds.  The services of this current contract are not targeted to BAS students, but rather to Department of Rehabilitation clients whom the DOR refers.

The DOR contract with the new matching fund provisions will add an expense in an area that is not central to the mission of BAS, and similar services are available on-site at no cost to BAS students.

The elimination of this contract reduces 1.0 FTE from BAS staff.

In place of this contract, BAS presently hosts a One-Stop Career Center fully funded by Alameda County. These One-Stop services, including job placement and support, can be accessed by all BAS students as well as those community members seeking guidance and support for employment searches.

Staff is recommending termination of this contract.

POLICY/CODE:

FISCAL IMPACT:
$36,000 annually for two years

STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Terminate the Contract with the Department of Rehabilitation.

BERKELEY UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT

TO:             Donald Evans, Ed. D., Superintendent
FROM:        Timothy White, Executive Director of Facilities    
DATE:         October 19, 2016
SUBJECT:  Update on the Oxford Modernization Project and Increase the Contract With Hibser Yamauchi (HY) Architects for the Design of the Oxford Elementary Modernization

BACKGROUND INFORMATION:
On June 15, 2016, the Board approved HY Architects to begin a scoping study of the Oxford Modernization Project.  At that meeting, staff stated that HY would complete a scoping study.  In the past three months, HY met with school staff and members of the school community.  On June 15, 2016, the Board approved combining all of the project budgets for Measure I into one budget. 

This request includes engaging with the site committee at Oxford to discuss a larger vision. This additional scope of work will include site master planning to develop options, budgets and various project scenarios. The increase in the scope and size of project necessitates a change to the size of the contract with the architect.   

Staff is requesting an increase in Board authority of the HY contract from $25,500 to $35,500.  In late January, staff expects to bring forth a proposal for full design services for this project.  

FISCAL IMPACT:
Cost to be paid from Measure I.

STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Approve an increase of $10,000 for HY Architects for a revised Board Authority of $35,500.       

BERKELEY UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT

TO:             Donald Evans, Ed.D, Superintendent
FROM:        Timothy E. White, Executive Director of Facilities
DATE:         October 19, 2016
SUBJECT:  Accept the Completion of the Cragmont Replace Flooring and Paint Project

BACKGROUND INFORMATION:
On May 18, 2016, the Board awarded a contract to OnPoint Construction to replace flooring and paint the Cragmont Elementary School.  On September 21, 2016, the Board approved Futility Resolution 17-034 acknowledging that the project change orders would exceed the 10% contingency. The project is now complete and all change orders have been negotiated. Staff requests board acceptance of the project.

Acceptance of the project will permit staff to file a Notice of Completion with the County and will permit release of retention.    

POLICY/CODE: 
California Public Contract Code 20110- 20118

FISCAL IMPACT:
The project was funded through the Measure AA bond.  The project had change orders of $46,818.00 or 11.24% above the Board approval amount. 

STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Accept the project as complete.   

BERKELEY UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT
 

TO:             Donald Evans, Ed.D., Superintendent
FROM:        Pasquale Scuderi, Assistant Superintendent, Educational Services
DATE:         October 19, 2016
SUBJECT:   Approval of Overnight Field Trips 

BACKGROUND INFORMATION:

The following overnight field trips are being requested:

Pt. Bonita Retreat Center BHS-AHA, Sausalito, CA, November 9-10, 2016

Approve participation of sixty (60)11^th grade AHA students, six (6) teachers and two (2) other adults on a two-day, one-night field trip to Pt. Bonita Retreat Center, Sausalito, CA. The group will depart Berkeley High School on Wednesday, November 9th at 9:00 a.m., and return Thursday, November 10th at 2:30 p.m. The group will engage in collaborative projects and learning throughout the two day retreat that form an integral part of our core art based curriculum. They will also be participating in group challenges, community building activities, arts integration projects and shared clean-up responsibilities. BUSD will provide transportation. Students will sleep in gender specific cabins. The cost of $6,100.00 for the trip will be paid for by parent donations, BHSDG funds and CPA grant. No student will be denied access based on inability to pay. Requested by: Sam Pasarow, BHS Principal.

Pt. Bonita Retreat Center BHS-CAS, Sausalito, CA, November 21-22, 2016

Approve participation of fifty-five (55)12^th grade CAS students, six (6) teachers and two (2) other adults on a two-day, one-night field trip to Pt. Bonita Retreat Center, Sausalito, CA. The group will depart Berkeley High School on Tuesday, November 21st at 9:00 a.m., and return Wednesday, November 22nd at 1:30 p.m. The group will engage in collaborative projects and learning throughout the two day retreat that form an integral part of our core art based curriculum. They will also be participating in group challenges, community building activities, arts integration projects and shared clean-up responsibilities. BUSD will provide transportation. Students will sleep in gender specific cabins. The cost of $5,700.00 for the trip will be paid for by parent donations and CPA grant. No student will be denied access based on inability to pay. Requested by: Sam Pasarow, BHS Principal.

 Pt. Bonita Retreat Center BHS-AHA, Sausalito, CA, March 16-17, 2017

Approve participation of fifty-five (55)12^th grade AHA students, six (6) teachers and two (2) other adults on a two-day, one-night field trip to Pt. Bonita Retreat Center, Sausalito, CA. The group will depart Berkeley High School on Thursday, March 16th at 9:00 a.m., and return Friday, March 17th at 2:30 p.m. The group will engage in collaborative projects and learning throughout the two day retreat that form an integral part of our core art based curriculum. They will also be participating in group challenges, community building activities, arts integration projects and shared clean-up responsibilities. BUSD will provide transportation. Students will sleep in gender specific cabins. The cost of $6,100.00 for the trip will be paid for by parent donations, BHSDG fund and CPA grant. No student will be denied access based on inability to pay. Requested by: Sam Pasarow, BHS Principal.

POLICY/CODE:
Education Code 35330
Board Policy 6153

FISCAL IMPACT:
As indicated above.

STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Approve the out of state travel and overnight field trips consistent with the District Policies and instructional programs.

BERKELEY UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT

TO: Donald Evans, Ed.D., Superintendent
FROM: Pasquale Scuderi, Assistant Superintendent, Educational Services
Wyn Skeels, Career Technical Education Program Supervisor
DATE: October 19, 2016
SUBJECT:   Career Technical Education Advisory Committee

BACKGROUND INFORMATION: 
Staff is requesting authorization to convene a Career Technical Education (CTE) Advisory Committee with the members who are listed below.  This will be an advisory committee that will work with staff to make suggestions and/or recommendations on policy and procedure related to CTE.  The members of this committee will also serve as liaisons between the District and potential employers.  The full CTE Advisory Committee will meet on a biannual basis.  Individual Committee Members will be called on for support as needed.

The functions and duties of the CTE Advisory Committee are as follows:

1. Help to determine what type of CTE program is offered.
2. Assist CTE Pathway Programs in finding suitable work stations (internships, work-study, cooperative learning, partnerships) for students in industry occupations.
3. Help attract and encourage qualified/capable students into the CTE program.
4. Assist in recruiting and providing opportunities for special needs students.
5. Evaluate the effectiveness of the CTE program. Guidelines for evaluation should be developed cooperatively with the advisory committee, administration, school board, and the Career Technical Education Administration and Management Unit of the California Department of Education.
6. Help gain support for legislation and appropriations.
7. Obtain sponsors for appropriating funds for awards, scholarships, or needed equipment and supplies that are useful in carrying out classroom activities and the Career Technical Student Organizations (CTSO) or other youth programs.
8. Unify the activities of the CTE program with those of other groups and agencies interested in CTE.
9. Study and make recommendations to help solve problems presented to the district/program by the school board on which further information is needed.
10. Identify current standards for new equipment.

In addition, there are a variety of ways that the committee can provide advice in regard to CTE curriculum and instruction:

1. Help establish curriculum that has a hands-on, technological approach as aligned with CTE standards.
2. Assist to develop a list of capable resource persons for use as speakers, and/or judges for both in-school and out-of-school tests and contests.
3. Assist in determining skills needed for particular jobs at entry, technical, and professional levels so that the skills may be included in the instructional program.
4. When appropriate, serve as resource when the teacher is visiting work-place learning sites of students and participate in classroom instruction or demonstrations and accompanying or hosting field trips.
5. Provide technical assistance and keep the teacher aware of new developments in the CTE industry.
6. Serve as speakers at civic clubs, open houses, and career days to tell the story of school-industry cooperation.
7. Assist in procuring opportunities to upgrade the technical skills and knowledge of the teacher.
   
   

The following members of the community have been recruited and have agreed to serve as members of the CTE Advisory Committee.

• • Matt Albinson, BHS Ed Tech Specialist and ICT Pathway Teacher
  • Stephanie Allan, BUSD CTE Advisor
  • Skyler Barton, BCC Learning Communities Counselor
  • John Belperio, Business Representative, Carpenters Local 713
  • John Brauer, Workforce Development Director, Cal. Workforce Director (BHS Parent)
  • Gil Dong, Chief, Berkeley Fire Dept.
  • James Dopman, Career Advisor/CTE Coordinator, Law & Social Justice Pathway (BUSD Parent)
  • Kurt Dreyer, Business Representative, IATSE 107
  • Delfina Geiken, City of Berkeley, Employment Programs Administrator, HHCS Dept. (BHS Parent)
  • Karen Hemphill, BUSD Board of Directors
  • Ted Lam, Maintenance Supt., EBMUD
  • Paula Resa, Director of Field Services, Carpenters Training Committee for No. California
  • Miriam Rokeach, Former Member, BUSD Board of Directors
  • Omar Sabeh, Rooster Productions
  • Kelsey Scruggs, MPH, UC Labor Occupational Health Program
  • Julie Sinai, REDF, Director of Policy & Regional Partnerships (BHS Parent)
  • Wyn Skeels, BUSD CTE Program Supervisor
  • Lt. E. Spiller, Berkeley Police Dept.
  • David Sprague, IAFF, Local 1227
  • Sgt. C. Stines, Berkeley Police Assn.
  • Eugene Palmer, Theater Production Supervisor, UC Berkeley
  • BHS Student Representative, BioTech Pathway Student  and Robotics Club Co -President
  • BHS Student Representative, B-STEP Pathway

  The make-up of this committee is in accordance with the requirements listed in the California Department of Education Career Technical Education Advisory Manual.  With Board approval, the BUSD CTE Advisory Committee will convene for its first meeting on November 1, 2016.

POLICY/CODE:
Education Code 8070

FISCAL IMPACT:
None

STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Approve the Career Technical Education Advisory Committee.

BERKELEY UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT

TO:                 Donald Evans, Ed.D., Superintendent
FROM:          Pasquale Scuderi, Assistant Superintendent, Educational Services
Patricia Saddler, Ed. D., Director, Programs and Special Projects
DATE:         October 19, 2016
SUBJECT:   2016-17 Parent Advisory Committee Members for the Local Control and Accountability Plan

BACKGROUND INFORMATION:
Staff is presenting to the Board the members of the 2016-17 Parent Advisory Committee (PAC), which is required to review, provide input and comment on the District’s Local Control and Accountability Plan (LCAP).  In accordance with Board Policy 0460, Principals have submitted the names of parent/guardian representatives to staff and the Superintendent.  The following list of representatives incorporates the new two-year service terms.  Berkeley Technology Academy, Washington School and the Pre-School are currently searching for a parent representative, and BHS and the middle schools do not have all their openings filled.  If a vacancy occurs, the Superintendent may replace a PAC member without requiring Board approval.  A disruptive or habitually absent member of the PAC may be removed by the Superintendent or by a vote of two-thirds of the PAC.

BUSD Parent Advisory Committee 2016-17

Supt.'s Appointee        Maya Glenn                         New

The PAC includes members who represent the priority groups identified by the state: English learners, students who qualify for the National School Lunch Program, and foster youth.  In addition, staff has ensured that parents of African-American students and parents of students who have qualified for Special Education services have been included on the PAC.  

The Parent Advisory Committee is planning to meet on the third Thursday of the  month, with the PAC Orientation scheduled for Thursday, October 20. Future meeting dates are as follows:  Nov. 17, Dec. 15, Jan. 19, Feb. 16, Mar. 16, Apr. 20, and May 18. All meetings will be held at 2020 Bonar Street, Room #126, at 6:30 pm. Childcare will be provided.  

POLICY/CODE:
BP 0460

FISCAL IMPACT:
None

STAFF RECOMMENDATION:  
Receive the list of members of the Parent Advisory Committee for the Local Control and Accountability Plan for information.

BERKELEY UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT

TO:               Donald Evans, Ed. D., Superintendent
FROM:         Pasquale Scuderi, Assistant Supt. of Educational Services
DATE:          October 19, 2016
SUBJECT:    School Class Size Report

BACKGROUND INFORMATION:
Since 1987, Berkeley Schools Excellence Program (BSEP), a community response to state and federal education funding shortages, has financed lower class sizes at all Berkeley public schools.  In 2006, BSEP Measure A reaffirmed the community’s commitment to smaller class sizes by allocating additional funds to continue maintaining a lower student-to-teacher class size ratio.  Currently, BSEP funds approximately 30% of classroom teachers in Berkeley schools.

The class size goals of the measure are to maintain a district-wide class average of 20 students to one teacher in kindergarten through third grade, 26 students to one teacher in fourth and fifth grade, and 28 students to one teacher in sixth through twelfth grade.

Class size reports for the elementary, middle and high school follow.

In general, the class size goal was met at the elementary level except in 2^nd  grade, 3^rd  grade, and two 4^th /5^th  combination classes where the district-wide class averages are slightly higher.  A number of factors contributed to missing the goal:

• High enrollment and limited facilities options at elementary schools
• Significant enrollment over the years in what is now 2^nd and 3^rd grade
• District policy to not move students once they are attending a given school

Middle school class size averages met the BSEP goal, with an average class size of 25.1 in 7th and 8th grade math and 26.7 in 7th and 8th grade English.

High school class size averages also met the BSEP goal, with an average class size of 27.6 at Berkeley High School excluding PE.

POLICY/CODE:
Berkeley Schools Excellence Project, Measure A of 2006

FISCAL IMPACT:
None

STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Receive the School Class Size Report for information.

BERKELEY PUBLIC SCHOOLS

1231 Addison St., Berkeley, CA 94702

President Leyva-Cutler called the meeting to order at 7:30p.m. She reported that the Board convened to Closed Session at 5:49 pm.

Roll Call

Board of Education:
Beatriz Leyva-Cutler, President – Present
Ty Alper, Vice President – Present
Judy Appel, Director/Clerk – Present
Josh Daniels, Director – Present
Karen Hemphill, Director – Present
Petra Silvey, Student Director, BHS – Present
Alaunte Keys, Student Director, BTA – Excused   

Administration:
Donald E. Evans, Ed. D, Superintendent
Javetta Cleveland, Deputy Superintendent
Pasquale Scuderi, Assistant Superintendent, Educational Services
Lisa Van Thillo, Interim Assistant Superintendent, Human Resources
Lyz Chairez, Recorder

REPORT CLOSED SESSION
President Leyva-Cutler reported out on closed session:  

Public Employee Discipline/Dismissal/Release/Evaluation (Government Code Sections 54954.5(e), 54957)

Employee #008895

The Board heard an update on this matter; no action was taken

Employee #7679

Motion to accept staff recommendation:
Appel/Daniels and approved 4-1
Beatriz Leyva-Cutler, President – Yes
Ty Alper, Vice President – Yes
Judy Appel, Director/Clerk – Yes
Josh Daniels, Director – Yes
Karen Hemphill, Director - No

Employee #8096
The Board heard an update on this matter; no action was taken.

OPEN SESSION

APPROVAL OF REGULAR MEETING AGENDA

Motion to approve agenda:
Alper/Hemphill and unanimously approved 6-0 

PUBLIC TESTIMONY
A total of 17 people addressed the Board: 

Eight students and seven adults spoke in support of Ms. Felarca. 

Ms. Felarca addressed the Board regarding the District’s disciplinary process.

A community member addressed the Board regarding credentialing

President Leyva-Cutler called a short recess to order.

CONSENT CALENDAR

Motion to approve the Consent Calendar:
Alper/Appel and unanimously approved 6-0

ACTION ITEMS

Public Hearing (8pm) and Resolution for Grades K-12 Textbook/ Instructional Materials Compliance for 2016-17

President Leyva-Cutler opened the hearing at 8:42. No once came forward to speak. 

Motion to approve the Resolution for Grades K-12 Textbook/Instructional Materials compliance for 2016-17:
Alper/Hemphill and unanimously approved 6-0

DISCUSSION ITEMS

Priorities and Initiatives for the 2016-17 School Year
Allotted time: 20 min
Actual time: 23 min 

Superintendent Evans’ presentation highlighted challenges and successes in the areas of LCAP, Professional Development, Common Core curriculum, and Welcoming Schools. Questions and discussion followed.

Professional Development Update
Allotted time: 60 min
Actual time: 40 min

Professional Development Coordinator, Michelle Sinclair’s presentation focused on Professional Learning Communities and highlighted successes and challenges in relation to the LCAP goals. Questions and discussion followed.  

BOARD MEMBER AND SUPERINTENDENT COMMENTS

Director Hemphill will hold office hours on last Saturday of October.

Director Appel will hold office hours on the third Saturday of the month at Café Leila from 1pm to 3pm.

President Leyva-Cutler will hold office hours on the Oct, 13^th at Casa Latina. 

Director Daniels will not hold office hours until 2017.

ADJOURNMENT

President Leyva-Cutler adjourned opens session at 10:10 p.m.

BERKELEY UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT

TO:               Donald Evans, Ed. D., Superintendent
FROM:         Pasquale Scuderi, Assistant Supt. of Educational Services
DATE:          October 19, 2016
SUBJECT:    2016-17 Student Enrollment Update

BACKGROUND INFORMATION:
In June 2015, the Berkeley Board of Education approved a new Admissions and Enrollment Policy (BP 5111). The Administrative Regulation (AR 5111.1) was also updated at the same time. The new Admissions Policy affected the 1,261 new students enrolling in BUSD for the 2016-17 school year as well as the 698 students transitioning from elementary to middle school and the 740 students transitioning from middle to high school.  

The new Admission Policy requires that students transitioning to middle and high school submit proofs of Berkeley residency.  Of approximately 698 fifth graders enrolled in the 2015-16 school year, 33 did not submit proofs of Berkeley residency in order to continue on to middle school and matriculated elsewhere.  Of approximately 740 eighth graders enrolled in the 2015-16 school year, 28 did not submit proofs of Berkeley residency in order to continue onto Berkeley High School.  The families were informed in writing and via personal phone calls from the Admissions Office along with communications from their respective schools to provide the necessary documents to enroll in middle school and high school.  The Admissions Office was also open on two Saturdays in January and two Saturdays in April to accommodate working families.  

As part of the registration process, district staff conducts address verifications when the staff believes this is necessary to ensure compliance with the Berkeley residency requirement. District staff has visited 503 residences of students enrolling in the 2016-17 school year. Of the 503 address verifications, 89 (18%) students were not enrolled in Berkeley Unified Schools.The address verifications have been conducted throughout Berkeley, Oakland and West Contra Costa. The accompanying map indicates where most of the address verifications have taken place.  

However, not all students enrolled in our schools live in Berkeley. Berkeley Unified School District has accepted 799 students on inter-district permits for the 2016-17 school year, most of whom are continuing in our schools. Of the 72 new students who were admitted into BUSD schools this year, 30 are children of BUSD employees, 15 have siblings already in our schools, and 27 have extenuating circumstances. BUSD denied 156 inter-district transfer requests. In comparison, during the 2015-16 school year BUSD accepted 743 students on inter-district permits. The increase this year is in grades 6 and 9. The attached chart indicates the grade levels of all students who applied for inter-district permits. The pie chart details the ethnic composition of students accepted on inter-district permits as compared to the district as a whole.

Berkeley residents also requested inter-district permits for 84 students to attend public schools outside of Berkeley that are not charter schools for the 2016-17 school-year. The breakdown for the students opting not to attend school in BUSD is as follows:  27 for elementary school, 17 for middle school, and 40 for high school.

POLICY/CODE:
Board Policy 5111

FISCAL IMPACT:
None

STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Receive 2016-17 student admissions update report for information.

BERKELEY UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT

TO:            Donald Evans, Ed. D., Superintendent
FROM:        Jay Nitschke, Director of Technology
Allison Krasnow, Instructional Technology Coordinator
DATE:         October 19, 2016
SUBJECT:   Instructional Technology Initiatives for 2016-17

BACKGROUND INFORMATION: 

There have been significant developments in the use of technology in Berkeley Unified in recent years. This presentation presents an overview of the current initiatives, focussed on those most directly affecting the classroom. The confluence of Common Core curriculum, improved resources for education on the web, a lower-cost point of entry to powerful technology (Chromebooks and Google Apps for Education), and teacher and student desire to use these tools is fueling changes in our classrooms.

OVERALL GOAL:

Our students should be skilled in using technology to communicate, collaborate, and be creative and critical thinkers. As educators we have a responsibility to ensure that each and every student has the technological skills to participate fully and ethically in the social, economic and political fabric of today’s world.

FOCUS ON GRADES 3-5:

During the 2015-16 school year, planning began for significantly expanding the capacity for use of technology during instruction in grades 3-5. A group of elementary classroom teachers, specialists, and principals was convened by Instructional Technology Coordinator Allison Krasnow and Library Coordinator Becca Todd. Those discussions led to a plan that revolved around three areas:

• Professional Development not just for classroom teachers, but for all educators in grade 3-5 classrooms

• A school-wide commitment to Digital Citizenship

• Devices (chromebooks) to make a ratio of 1 student to 1 device possible in grades 4 and 5, and 2:1 in 3rd grade. Devices were provided only to those classrooms meeting the expectations listed below (nearly every classroom).

• The creation of a Digital Literacy Scope and Sequence which uses BUSD curriculum; taking what teachers are already doing (in A Story of Units, TCRWP, FOSS, etc) and overlaying the expectations of digital literacy for each grade level in CCSS content standards

The professional development was aimed at producing a core level of understanding of the tools provided by Google Apps for Education. (Google docs, spreadsheets, slides and websites). Participants took the online Google Certified Educator Training either self-paced or in small groups over the summer. Nearly every classroom teacher successfully became Google Certified or met district goals. Additionally, 32 non-classroom teachers including literacy coaches, library media specialists, ELD, RTI, Special Ed. and Science Teachers, BEARS Teachers, and two principals completed the program. Classified staff including LEARNS staff were given the opportunity to participate in the trainings as well.

For the second year in a row, teachers from across all grade levels and all 17 K-12 schools participated in a Instructional Technology Summit held in August at the Berkeley Adult School. Over 74 teachers came together to learn from their peers. In addition, 26 teachers attended the Math and Technology Day led by Dan Meyer from Desmos.

This has been continued throughout the school year with:

• Half-day PD sessions throughout year to continue 1:1 training

• Google Classroom PD for all 3rd-5th teachers in September

• Virtual support (screencasts)

• In person - Staff meetings, in classroom

District use of technology is embedded in the district focus on TCRWP/ELA (including Year of the Reader); PBIS+; PLC work; and Equity for the 2016-17 school year. In subsequent years the curriculum and student needs will continue to be the foundation that guides our instructional technology use, as the grade level focus shifts to secondary and eventually cycles back around to primary grades.

Integrating technology into teacher and other school staff skill sets enhances the ability to engage the equity strategies:

• Opt In

• Using Students’ Lives

• High Help/High Performance

• Providing multiple perspectives

It is absolutely crucial for teachers to work with their colleagues to share best practices and develop skills to overcome the sometimes small but roadblocks to effectively use technology with students. Tech Teacher Leaders (TTLs) are a stipended group of teachers (paid for by BSEP), one from each K-8 site and a total of three from the high schools. In addition to attending monthly meetings to collaborate among themselves, the TTLs spend 4 hours per month building site-based capacity to integrate technology in the classroom. This includes leading PD at staff meetings, meeting after school with grade levels or departments, and supporting teacher's understanding on how to integrate the DIgital Literacy Scope and Sequence (for 3rd-5th grade teachers).

Technology use in the classroom does not happen without the support of a strong technology infrastructure and support personnel.

District bandwidth to the internet has increased from 10 Mbits ten years ago to over 1000 Mbits that to infrastructure improvements paid for by the Measure I technology bond as well as increases in the general fund allocation. In the past 15 months a new wifi system was rolled out to provide capacity for classrooms to have all students connected at one time.

Staffing has increased, though not in a commensurate way with the number of devices or the number of helpdesk tickets. In the 63-day period from Aug. 20 to Oct 12, 1254 helpdesk tickets were submitted, and many more problems were solved without a ticket. BSEP funds devoted to technology fund 6.2 FTE of Computer Technicians, as well as 75% of the recently created Technology Supervisor position.

The Board funded a Instructional Technology Coordinator position this year, filled by Allison Krasnow. The position is funded for two years to kick-start the activities covered by this presentation.

The BSEP-funded library department has been key to the increase of integration of technology into the schools. Library Coordinator Becca Todd has providing leadership to the “Digitech” working group (amalgam of technology, instructional technology and library staff). Library funds also pay for the a position that splits time in an elementary school and working as a TSA. A two-year position to create and develop the Digital Citizenship component in our K-5 schools has been funded by BSEP Library funds 2015-17.

Funding for this initiative has been provided by one-time funds. Device costs are about $100/device/year. Ongoing, we believe that some sort of BYOD (Bring your own device) initiative (used in other districts) coupled with the district providing devices for those families who cannot provide them will likely prove to be the best model. As the secondary school models are worked out in concert with middle school and high school staffs, long-term financial viability will be part of the discussion.

POLICY/CODE:  
The California Blueprint for Education Technology 2014–2017

FISCAL IMPACT:
None.

BERKELEY UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT

TO:            Donald Evans, Ed.D, Superintendent
FROM:      Timothy White, Executive Director of Facilities        
DATE:        October 19, 2016
SUBJECT: District Savings due to strong fiscal management of facility bond funds and leveraging funding for modernization of school facilities

BACKGROUND INFORMATION:
The District staff has been proactive in managing the interest costs for its long term general obligation bonds by refinancing previous general obligation bond sales to obtain more favorable interest rates.  The District sells general obligation bonds to finance facility modernization projects that are repaid by the Berkeley taxpayers through bond measures approved by the voters to fund modernization of school facilities.  The proceeds from the sale of general obligation bonds provide upfront funds to begin facilities projects while funds are collected from the taxpayers through property taxes.  The District has refinanced several times over the past years for a total future savings to the Berkeley taxpayers of $7.9 million over the life of the refinanced bonds. The District was also awarded a federal qualified school construction bonds (QSCB) instead of issuing another general obligation bond which provided another $6.8 million in future savings.  The District also leveraged at total of $7.4 from State Funding sources and interest earning. 

Savings from Refinancing of General Obligation Bonds

On May 29, 2013, the District competitively refinanced its series 2005 general obligation bonds.  The actual future dollar savings was $.9 million.  On June 10, 2015, the District refinanced its series 2008 general obligation bonds, receiving 13 bids demonstrating, once again, the strong market demand for the Berkeley USD bonds.   The actual future dollar savings was $2.7 million.  On April 19, 2016, the District refinanced its 2007 series general obligation bonds on at a true interest cost rate of 1.952%. The actual future savings over the life of the issue was $4.3 million.  The District’s credit rating of AAA and AA+ from two rating agencies increased the amount of savings from this refinance. 

Other leveraged funding and interest earnings

The Measure I general obligation bond approved by the voters of Berkeley California in 2011, authorized $210 million in bonding capacity. This $210 million is targeted for modernization of District schools and systems repairs throughout the district.  It should be noted that the last two years have been characterized by steadily increasing construction costs and budgetary augments for us to provide modernization projects and systems repairs as outlined in our project expenditure plans.

Notwithstanding the above, the District leveraged a total of $6.4 million in additional dollars from the State Funding Program and PG&E Solar rebates. In addition, the District earned $1 million in interest on our building funds held in the County Treasury increasing our available project funding to $217 million

Savings from issuing Government Qualified School Construction Bonds versus General Obligation Bonds

In May 2011, the District leveraged savings from issuing a Direct Payment Qualified School Construction Bonds (QSCB).  Using the QSCB program provided present value savings of $6 million or 23.98% on the proceeds from the QSCB of $25 million, and future or actual dollar savings of $6.8 million.  Against a constant debt service or tax rate target, this means the borrowing capacity could be increased by nearly $6 million over conventional tax-exempt bonds, for a much larger building fund.  The QSCB program required the bonds have federally taxable interest rates in which the U. S. Treasury then offsets with direct subsidy payments for low net debt service payments. 

POLICY/CODE: 
Public Contract Code 20110 – 20118 and 5100-5110 

FISCAL IMPACT:
As shown above

STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Please accept this report as a summary of savings and actions to reduce cost to Berkeley taxpayers and add value added to the District’s capital construction program.

BERKELEY UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT

TO:             Donald Evans, Ed. D., Superintendent
FROM:        Patricia Saddler, Educational Services
DATE:         October 19, 2016
SUBJECT:   Update on Beginning Teacher Induction Program

BACKGROUND INFORMATION:
This year the Teacher Induction Program serves 43 Participating Teachers who are mentored by 31 veteran Berkeley teachers and three retired teachers. Participating Teachers are BUSD teachers who are new to the profession and hold a preliminary teaching credential. BUSD contracts with Contra Costa County Office of Education Teacher Induction Program. CCCOE Teacher Induction Program creates the content of the mentor professional development, as well as all the tools/documentation that Participating Teachers work with throughout the school year. Staff from CCCOE facilitates all of the required evaluations of Participating Teacher Portfolios, and they are responsible for making the recommendation to the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing for a clear teaching credential when teachers successfully complete the program.

Each Participating Teacher receives at least one hour of support each week from their mentor. This support is tailored to their needs and usually delivered in their classroom after school. Each Participating Teacher is required to design an inquiry project into their own teaching practice. Together with their mentor, they will analyze student data, engage in observations and reflect on which practices have the most impact on their students’ learning and academic achievement.

The mentors attend three seminars per year, which focuses on the elements of best practices in effective coaching. There is specific training that targets ELD, Special Populations and Equity based instruction. The mentors are supported by one .40 FTE TSA, Georgia Wood. Georgia’s job is to match Participating Teachers with a mentor who will meet their needs, run all the events associated with Teacher Induction, trouble shoot throughout the year, and provide coaching and ongoing support for all the mentors and Participating Teachers. She is supervised by Pat Saddler, who coordinates the program.

For 2016-16 BUSD has:

• 43 Participating Teachers
• 24 of them are in their first year of the program  
• 19 are in their second year of the program
• Nine of the teachers hold special ed credentials
• 11 work at the high school level
• Eight are middle school teachers
• 22 are elementary schools teachers
• Two work in the VAPA program

The Teacher Induction Program is collaborating with Kacy Robinson, with the goal of retaining more teachers of color who enter the program. We have worked to create better Mentor/Participating Teacher matches. Additionally we are focusing our work district support for each mentor/Participating Teacher pair around equity issues.

POLICY/CODE:
Education Code Section 44259 - 22579

FISCAL IMPACT:
$150,000 in Educator’s Effectiveness funding will be used to support new teachers with the CCCOE Induction Program.

BERKELEY UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT

TO: Board of Education
FROM: Policy Subcommittee
SUBJECT: Board Policy 6200 - Adult Education 
DATE: October 19, 2016

BACKGROUND INFORMATION:
On September 22, 2016, the Policy Committee revised BP6200 to ensure compliance with new Federal Program Monitoring (FPM) requirements pertaining to fees. BP6200 is being presented for first reading.

POLICY:
BP6200

FISCAL IMPACT:
NA

RECOMMENDATION:
Receive BP6200 for first reading. 

BERKELEY UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT

TO:             Donald Evans, Ed. D., Superintendent
FROM:        Pasquale Scuderi, Assistant Superintendent, Education Services
Patricia Saddler, Ed.D., Director, Educational Services
DATE:         October 19, 2016
SUBJECT:   Local Control Accountability Plan Implementation Update

BACKGROUND INFORMATION:
Board Policy 0460 requires that the Superintendent or designee shall ensure proper implementation of the Local Control Accountability Plan.  The policy requires a written report to the Board that provides an update on the implementation of the actions and services in the LCAP.  Staff has developed an implementation-monitoring tool, which will be used to inform the Board and Stakeholders throughout the 2016-17 school year. 

POLICY/CODE:
BP 0460

FISCAL IMPACT:
N/A

Persons wishing to address the Board should fill out a green speaker card.  Cards turned in for the earlier open session public testimony will be given priority.  Speakers will be randomly selected based on topic and position, with BUSD students generally given priority.  Public Testimony is limited to 15 minutes with a 3-minute limit per speaker per topic although the time allotted per speaker may be reduced to 2 minutes at the discretion of the President.

To what degree did we . . .

• frame agenda items with an introduction and a closure summary?
• allot time to agenda items proportionate to complexity, critical impact and timeline deadlines?
• address the fundamental  problem at the root of issues, not just the symptoms?
• model mutual respect, effective interpersonal communication and civility?