Summary of January State Board of Education Meeting

Wednesday & Thursday, January 5, 6, 2011

 

The State Board of Education met on Wednesday, January 5, 2011 in committees.  They began with the Leadership for Innovation Committee, Globally Competitive Students Committee, Healthy Responsible Students, 21^st Century Professionals Committee, and ended with the Business/Finance and Advocacy Committee. On Thursday, they met to take Action on issues. Access to the SBE Executive Summaries and related documents are on the SBE website at the following link: http://www.ncpublicschools.org/stateboard/meetings/2011/01

Wednesday, January 5, 2011

Leadership for Innovation Committee Meeting

Action and Discussion Agenda

Discussion

• LF1 Status of eTextbooks and Digital Teaching and Learning Resources in NC Public Schools The State Board received an update and discussed online resources and digital textbooks. The new assessments developed for ACRE will require online testing in 2013/2014.
• Committee Meeting: Staff reviewed current efforts to move forward with digital technology in the schools. Many school systems are purchasing laptops, Kindles, iPads, computers, and other forms of technology, which can be used to access digital textbooks. NC has developed 8^th grade NC History program with the support of LEARN NC and NCVPS. One of the main concerns, in moving to digital technology, is student access to technology and whether they have internet access in their homes. Lee County has implemented the purchase of laptops for all students in Grades 3-12. They redirected resources and funding priorities to purchase the computers. The new State Technology Plan is due every two years and will be ready by July 2011. The e-Learning Commission is set to release their report and recommendations for the state, in March 2011. Many LEAs already use various digital education tools including Charlotte-Mecklenburg, who subscribes to the “Discovery Education” a program for K-8 science curriculum. CMS students are showing gains in science, which may be attributed to this digital science curriculum. There are major cost implications for obtaining the technology hardware, software access, and maintenance for all students. The cost estimates were not provided. The textbook fund may be used for technology, but the State budget for textbooks was severely cut in 2009 and eliminated in 2010. It’s hard to say whether it will be cut again in 2011 with the budget crisis. Other strategies suggested to reduce costs include:  free curriculum and leased hardware. A Digital Leaning report prepared by the Foundation for Excellence in Education was provided and is available upon request.

New Business

• NCVPS/LEO Director’s Update: Dr. Setser informed the Board that NC is one of two finalists for a grant from US Dept. of Education to study virtual education. He also indicated DPI staff has developed a new funding formula for virtual school courses and they will present to the State Board in February. There was discussion about the need for a Digital Education Summit possibly hosted by the JOBS Commission. The Race to the Top technology funding will be critical in moving NC forward in the digital education age.
• Race to the Top Evaluation Questions: Dr. Henry reported to the State Board on the evaluation process required as part of the RttT grant. There are three contractors working on the evaluation process. There are six different initiatives to be reviewed. They need to determine if the efforts implemented in RttT are effective and cost sustainable. What should continue and what should end when the grant ends in four years? The longitudinal database will help with the data needed for the evaluation. Ultimately, they will be looking at teachers and student achievement. This will include classroom observations and require 18 months to complete the process. Other questions were raised including “Can we align our resources?” How are LEAs spending their funds? How are teachers performing who are rated low and high on their teacher evaluations?

Globally Competitive Students Committee

Action and Discussion Agenda

Discussion

• GCS 1 North Carolina Extended Content Standards for Mathematics and Science The State Board will discuss the content standards being presented by grade level for Mathematics and Science. This effort was the result of collaboration between the Exceptional Children’s Division and the Curriculum Division. The Standards comply with NCLB and IDEA. The assessments will measure the achievement of students with the most cognitive disabilities, based on alternate achievement standards. This provides special education students (greatest cognitive disabilities) with a set of uniform content standards and clarifying objectives for Mathematics and Science.
• Committee Meeting: The Common Core Standards are in place and the Extended Content Standards are an effort to help students with disabilities be successful and allow NC to assess these students. Several examples were provided and each was a direct result of the base content standard modified to the level of understanding for students with the most cognitive disabilities.  This will be back to the Board for Action and Approval in February.

Healthy Responsible Students Committee (11:35 AM)

Discussion

• HRS1 Interscholastic Athletics The State Board will review a requested policy change and provide feedback. A small group of students was deemed ineligible to participate in athletics due to the change in the cut-off date for admission to kindergarten. Currently, the policy contains a note delaying implementation of the cut-off date until 2015-2016. The policy note should be deleted and this will allow all students who turn 19 before August 31 of their senior year to be eligible to participate in athletics. Deleting the note will also allow students who turn 19 before August 31, 2011 and beyond to be eligible to play interscholastic sports.
• Committee Meeting: Staff reviewed the problem and there was no further discussion. This item will be on the action agenda in February.

21^st Century Professionals Committee (2:10 PM)

Action and Discussion Agenda

Action

• TCP 1 Recommendations from the Advisory Board on Requests for Exception from Teacher Licensing Requirements The State Board approves each request for exception from licensing, as recommended by the Board panel. In 2006, the Board appointed a panel to review requests for exemption to the licensing requirement or to provide an extension of time. The panel recommendations will be heard in Closed Session.
• Board Meeting: No information was provided.
• TCP 2 State Board of Education Recognition of North Carolina Board of Examiners for Speech and Language Pathologist and Audiologists (NCBOESLPA) Licensure as the Qualifying Credential for Service in Public Schools The State Board is asked to approve the proposal to recognize NCBOESLPA licensure as the qualifying credential required for service as a speech-language pathologists’ service in public schools. Presently, DPI has been licensing speech and language pathologists and is recommending moving to the more rigorous professional license standards, of the NC Board of examiners for Speech and Language Pathologists and Audiologists (NCBOESLPA). The Board requirements include: 1) completion of 75 semester hours of study in the field at an institution of higher education (IHE), 2) minimum score of 600 on Praxis II Speech Language Pathology, 3) completion of 30 hours of continuing education in the field every three years, and 4) renewal of license on an annual basis.
• Committee Meeting: The Committee chair moved this item to closed session.
• Board Meeting: The item was brought forward for discussion by the Committee chair. The main change would be the Praxis cut score which NC DPI sets at 550 while the NCBOESLPA license requires a 600 Praxis cut score. The Board discussed the issue and questions were addressed regarding existing licensed Speech and Language Pathologists and Audiologists being grandfathered to maintain their NC license to work in schools. Staff reassured the Board this would apply to new requests for licensure. This issue appeared as an agenda item and did not receive 30 days for LEAs to review for impact. Dr. Hoke requested information be gathered from Superintendents to determine if this change in licensure requirements would create problems with filling slots in this area of licensure. The problem with supply and demand was raised. The Board heard reports that the average Praxis cut score for this license is 673 of the 7500 who took the test. There is an 88 percent pass rate with 63 percent actually going to work in schools. They were also told of the 19 states that provide a license NC is one of 3 states with a cut score of 550 while all the others are 600. Seventy-three percent of licensed speech and language pathologists and audiologist hold a Board of Examiners license, which allows them to work in other areas beyond schools.

Business/Finance and Advocacy Committee Meeting (2:35 PM)

Action and Discussion Agenda

Action

• TCS 1 Race to the Top (RttT) – Incentives to Support Teacher Recruitment and Retention in the Lowest achieving Schools The State Board did not approve the RttT incentives to support teacher recruitment and retention in the lowest achieving schools. In the RttT proposal, NC indicated they would provide every new teacher who choose to work in the lowest achieving schools, regardless of their entry into teaching, with a voucher that can be used for the following: 1) Forgiveness of student loans for each year of teaching, 2) Tuition for obtaining a Master’s degree in education, educational administration, or the content area in which they teach, and 3) Housing, or a combination of the three. The value of the voucher is equal to the cost of two semesters of coursework, two courses per semester at an in-state-degree granting program.

Committee Meeting: Not Discussed.

Action on First Reading

• TCS 2 Approval of Grant
  • State Personnel Development Grant APPROVED North Carolina was awarded a five-year competitive grant (NC-SIP) for $7.4 million. The purpose of the grant is to establish and implement staff development support services to improve the performance (math and reading) and success of students with disabilities. There are four major goals for the grant: 1) improve math and reading skills performance for students with disabilities, 2) increase the percentage of qualified teachers if students with disabilities, 3) increase graduation rate and decrease dropout rates of students with disabilities, and 4) improve parent satisfaction with, and support of, school services for students with disabilities. Funds of $120,000 are being provided to start up the new grant sites in 2010-2011. Reading sites receiving $10,000 per year for five years include; Clinton City, Weldon City, Bladen County, Stokes County, Kannapolis City, Bertie County, and Richmond County. Math sites receiving $10,000 per year for five years include: Stanly County, Sampson County, Davie County, Henderson County, and Forsyth County.
• TCS 3 Council on Educational Services for Exceptional Children The State Board APPROVED Deborah Armstrong Whitfield to fill the Council vacancy position of a parent of a child with disabilities. She resides in Charlotte and has a law practice and is founder and president of the Advocacy Institute, Inc. in Charlotte, NC.
• BUDGET REVIEW (New Item): Philip Price provided a brief update to Board members on the State Budget for 2011-2012, when the 2011 Session of the General Assembly convenes January 26^th. DPI provided 10 percent recommended cuts to Governor Perdue for 2011-2012. This would require $1.1 billion in reduced public school funding. The possible reversions of $60 million may not be possible and the lottery revenue shortfall is expected to reach $44 million which is a $20 million loss to public schools operating budget. K-12 funding accounts for 37 percent of the budget with all education groups accounting for 60 percent of the state budget. There is hope the growth in State funding will be higher than anticipated for 2011-2012 which may reduce the depth of the cuts slightly. Right now the growth is slightly better than expected for 2010-2011 which should remove the possibility of additional state budget cuts prior to June 30, 2011. The other major issue causing concern is the unemployment rate, which may continue to be a problem for the next 2-3 years. The ADM projection for 2010-2011 was too high especially for the urban systems, like Wake and Charlotte.  It is anticipated the 16,000 projected student increase for 2011-2012 will be adjusted, as the latest data from January enrollment is considered.

Update on Contracts

Contracts over $25,000 – 13 contracts

Contracts under $25,000 – 3 contracts

 

Thursday, January 6, 2011

State Board of Education Meeting, (9:00 AM) Dr. William Harrison, Chairman

• Call to Order
• Pledge of Allegiance:
• Approval of Minutes

Special Presentation

• Mr. William (Bill) P.  Tatum, Lee County Board of Education- State Board Advisor

Key Initiatives Reports and Discussion

Career, College, Ready Set, Go/Race to the Top Update-Mr. Adam Levinson gave an overview of the RttT efforts.

• ACRE– Dr. Angela Quick provided a handout and noted the work with other states on the Instructional Improvement System (IIS). A consultant contract will be finalized in January and will outline the technical specifications for the system.
• Performance Navigator- Mr. Mike Martin reviewed the Proposed Measures and Targets for the State Board. These numerical goals are as follows: 1) Percent of students graduating from high school in 4 years, 2) Percent of students graduating from high school in five years (target increased), 3) Performance on National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP), 4) Students passing or excelling in both math and reading (target raised), 5) Scoring 3 or above on AP exams and percent of graduates taking the exam, 6) High school graduates who enroll in postsecondary programs, 7) LEAs requiring the Graduation Project, 8) SAT (ACT) composite and percent of graduates taking test, 9) Students completing concentration in a CTE, arts, language, or JROTC cluster, 10) Freshmen enrolled in at least one remedial course, and 11) Graduate passing Algebra II or equivalent. A list of the targets is available upon request and may be posted on DPI website. They have also changed the measurement standard for the number of conventional schools with a performance composite below 60 percent (previously known as low-performing schools) and they will include measurement of the validation of the educator evaluation process. This will involve a correlation between student growth and the teacher evaluation data. The SBE will use the information to set goals around teacher effectiveness in future years.

State Superintendent’s Report

• Dr. June Atkinson provided a handout of key initiatives. At the Superintendent’s Quarterly meeting they discussed legislative issues and reached consensus on repealing the calendar legislation and returning authority back to the LEAs for setting the school calendar. The second consensus issue was to consolidate and modify legislation that requires schools and districts to develop multiple plans such as DSSF, School Improvement, etc. Though they did not have consensus, another issue arose with the superintendents regarding class size in K-12, where they would like to set the numbers for class size. Next Dr. Atkinson had a brief presentation on iTunes U, which stands for iTunes University. This is a collection of audio and video education files available through NC DPI. NCDPI and other partners in the state have developed this tool to provide teachers, students, parents, and others with the ability to download education materials for free. The iTunes U information can be found within the iTunes website, www.itunes.com. The educational contents can be downloaded to a PC, Mac, iPod, or iPhone. In the new digital age with students she believes this will be a place that will attract them, to retrieve information, to help them academically. NC was one of four programs highlighted nationally for direct certification of the National School Lunch Program. The School Lunch Program has reduced the administrative errors for managing and certifying students for free meals, thus providing significant cost savings to the LEAs. The entire report can be accessed at: www.fns.usda.gov/ora/MENU/Published/CNP/FILES/DirectCert2010.pdf.  Dr. Atkinson advised Board members of communication from US Dept of Education on the Reauthorization of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (NCLB). Three key areas are being discussed: 1) Flexibility in the Accountability System, 2) increase investment in principals and teachers, 3) Focus efforts on at-risk schools. More information will be shared in the coming months.

Board Meeting and Committee Chair Reports

Information Agenda

Healthy Responsible Students

• HRS 2 Healthy Active Children Report 2010. The State Board heard information on the 2010 Healthy Children Report, required annually from the LEAs. The summary report includes information on the minutes of physical activity, including recess and trend data. The presentation slides are available in the link provided at the beginning of this preview. Eleven LEAs did not report information as required and the list is included in the report. Only 40 percent of the Healthy Advisory Committees list a representative, which is required and only 38 percent meet quarterly. Fifty-three percent provide their reports to the local boards of education. Fifty-one percent report ALL of their elementary schools provide 150 minutes of weekly PE with a certified PE teacher, while 48 percent report ALL of their middle schools provide 225 minutes of weekly Healthful Living with a certified health and physical education teacher. The remainder of the report provides further information on such items as: the use of the  Health Advisory report, health assessment tools being used, staff wellness program, percent of LEAs withholding recess as punishment, Health Advisory Commission training attended by LEA representative, and Joint-Use agreements.

Board Meeting: Dr. Paula Collins reviewed this annual report. All but one LEA has provided the required information for the report. The key pieces of the report can be found at the SBE link under HRS 2 listed at the beginning of this Summary. Board members discussed the possibility of having Individual Health Plans for all students with health issues. Dr. Collins indicated LEAs are only required to provide Diabetes Health Plans but some are doing it for their most vulnerable students anyway. Dr. Harris noted that teachers should be a model for their students. Many LEAs are focusing on physical activity and child nutrition in an effort to address the Obesity problems with children in NC. There was a brief discussion on teachers eliminating PE for children as a form of punishment or using PE as a form of punishment.  Both of which are not appropriate.

Consent Agenda

Globally Competitive Students

• GCS 2 Changes and Clarifications to Policy GCS-A-012: Annual Measurable Achievement Objectives for NCLB Title III and Update to Title III State Plan The State Board APPROVED the amendments to Policy GCS-A-012 and the Title III Plan, which includes policy amendments. After collecting two years worth of data from ACCESS for ELLS assessment, used for specifying annual measurable objectives to determine the percentage of students making progress toward English Language proficiency. Policy changes are being recommended, including the targets for proficiency. They include the following: 1) AMAO 1. Students identified as limited English proficient shall demonstrate progress by achieving one or more of the following in terms of the overall composite proficiency score on the annual English language proficiency test: 1) increase to the next English language proficiency level; 2) increase the previous score by 0.5; or 3) reach the Comprehensive Objective Composite. The new proficiency targets are as follows: 2010-2011-55.1, 2011-2012-, 56.1, 2011-2013-57.1, and 2013-2014 58.1, with all succeeding years increasing by 1.0 point. The policy update and information on the cut scores is included in the GCS 2 executive summary link provided at the beginning of this preview.

Healthy Responsible Students

• HRS 3 State Board of Education Study on Issues Related to Sports Injuries at Middle School and High School Levels The State Board ACCEPTED the study report as presented and to submit it to the General Assembly as required. The final report is due to the 2011 General Assembly upon convening.

21^st Century Professionals

• TCP 3 Proposed Qualifying Scores for Praxis II Physics (0265) and Regenerated Praxis II Exams in Elementary Education (0015) and Technology (0051) The State Board APPROVED, by consent, the qualifying scores recommended for Physics, Elementary Education, and Technology Education. NC is recommending a Physics test cut score of 133 after completing an in-state study conducted by the DPI Licensure Section. ETS conducted a standard setting process and has set a cut score of 161 for Elementary Education and a cut score of 159 for Technology Education. The new tests are for those individuals seeking a NC license in the above areas.
• TCP 4 Proposed Qualifying Scores for Praxis II Art: Content and Analysis (0135) The State Board APPROVED, by consent, the new cut score of 161 for Art: Content and Analysis (0135). The new test and score is appropriate for the assessment of individuals seeking an Art Education license in North Carolina.

Leadership for Innovation

• LFI 2 Approval of Charter School Technology Plans The State Board APPROVED, by consent, the charter school technology plans submitted by the following schools: Cape Fear Center for Inquiry, Tiler Charter, Socrates Academy, Gray Stone Day School, Bridges Charter, and ArtSpace Charter.

Business/Finance and Advocacy

• TCS 4 School Bus Inspection Updates: Policy Regarding Preventive Maintenance and Vehicle Replacement Manual Updates (TCS-H-005) PULLED FROM THE AGENDA. The State Board is recommended to approve, by consent, the recommended policy changes for school bus inspections. In 2006, TCS-H-005 was adopted and covers preventive maintenance, vehicle replacement, and school bus inspections. A new policy, TCS-H-011, was adopted and transportation staff began reviewing the “INSPECTION” section of the old policy and identified the need for technical updates to the inspection procedures to include best practices, and acknowledge the latest technology, since adoption of TCS-H-005 in 2006. Policy TCS-H-005 also includes technical changes to the “VEHICLES” section, reflecting changes in school bus specifications, adopted since 2006.

Action and Discussion Agenda

Chairman’s Remarks

• Dr. Bill Harrison, Chairman welcomed attorney Ann McColl as the new legislative liaison to the State Board of Education and indicated a memo would go out to all DPI staff to request any communications of staff with legislators be relayed to Ms. McColl. He also asked for the assistance of all education groups in supporting her and so that everyone is on the same page. He noted that The Community Colleges and Universities stay on message through the end of the legislative session and it is important all the education groups stay together for public schools as well.

Adjourn

 

Preview of January State Board of Education Meeting

Wednesday & Thursday, January 5, 6, 2011

The State Board of Education will meet on Wednesday, January 5, 2011 in committees.  They will begin with the Leadership for Innovation Committee, Globally Competitive Students Committee, Healthy Responsible Students, 21^st Century Professionals Committee, and finish with the Business/Finance and Advocacy Committee. On Thursday, they will meet to take Action on issues. Access to the SBE Executive Summaries and related documents are on the SBE website at the following link: http://www.ncpublicschools.org/stateboard/meetings/2011/01

Wednesday, January 5, 2011

Leadership for Innovation Committee Meeting (10:30 AM)

Action and Discussion Agenda

Discussion

• LF1 Status of eTextbooks and Digital Teaching and Learning Resources in NC Public Schools The State Board is requested to discuss and give feedback on the process for moving to more online resources and digital textbooks. The new assessments developed for ACRE will require online testing in 2013/2014. There must be a change to digital teaching and learning, which includes digital resources and other digital teaching tools. The Board will receive an update on the status and readiness to shift to online assessments and other possible changes.

New Business

• NCVPS/LEO Director’s Update:
• Race to the Top Evaluation Questions

Globally Competitive Students Committee (1:00 PM)

Action and Discussion Agenda

Discussion

• GCS 1 North Carolina Extended Content Standards for Mathematics and Science The State Board will discuss the content standards being presented by grade level for Mathematics and Science. This effort was the result of a collaboration between the Exceptional Children’s Division and the Curriculum Division. The Standards comply with NCLB and IDEA. The assessments will measure the achievement of students with the most cognitive disabilities, based on alternate achievement standards. This provides special education students (greatest cognitive disabilities) with a set of uniform content standards and clarifying objectives for Mathematics and Science.

Healthy Responsible Students Committee (11:35 AM)

Discussion

• HRS1 Interscholastic Athletics The State Board will review a requested policy change and provide feedback. A small group of students was deemed ineligible to participate in athletics due to the change in the cut-off date for admission to kindergarten. Currently, the policy contains a note delaying implementation of the cut-off date until 2015-2016. The policy note should be deleted and this will allow all students who turn 19 before August 31 of their senior year to be eligible to participate in athletics. Deleting the note will also allow students who turn 19 before August 31, 2011 and beyond to be eligible to play interscholastic sports.

21^st Century Professionals Committee (2:10 PM)

Action and Discussion Agenda

Action

• TCP 1 Recommendations from the Advisory Board on Requests for Exception from Teacher Licensing Requirements The State Board is requested to approve each request for exception from licensing, as recommended by the Board panel. In 2006, the Board appointed a panel to review requests for exemption to the licensing requirement or to provide an extension of time. The panel recommendations will be heard in Closed Session.
• TCP 2 State Board of Education Recognition of North Carolina Board of Examiners for Speech and Language Pathologist and Audiologists (NCBOESLPA) Licensure as the Qualifying Credential for Service in Public Schools The State Board is asked to approve the proposal to recognize NCBOESLPA licensure as the qualifying credential required for service as a speech-language pathologists’ service in public schools. Presently, DPI has been licensing speech and language pathologists and is recommending moving to the more rigorous professional license standards, of the NC Board of examiners for Speech and Language Pathologists and Audiologists (NCBOESLPA). The Board requirements include: 1) completion of 75 semester hours of study in the field at an institution of higher education (IHE), 2) minimum score of 600 on Praxis II Speech Language Pathology, 3) completion of 30 hours of continuing education in the field every three years, and 4) renewal of license on an annual basis.

Business/Finance and Advocacy Committee Meeting (2:35 PM)

Action and Discussion Agenda

Action

• TCS 1 Race to the Top (RttT) – Incentives to Support Teacher Recruitment and Retention in the Lowest achieving Schools The State Board is requested to approve the RTT incentives to support teacher recruitment and retention in the lowest achieving schools. . In the RttT proposal, NC indicated they would provide every new teacher who choose to work in the lowest achieving schools, regardless of their entry into teaching, with a voucher that can be used for the following: 1) Forgiveness of student loans for each year of teaching, 2) Tuition for obtaining a Master’s degree in education, educational administration, or the content area in which they teach, and 3) Housing, or a combination of the three. The value of the voucher is equal to the cost of two semesters of coursework, two courses per semester at an in-state-degree granting program.

Action on First Reading

• TCS 2 Approval of Grant
  • State Personnel Development Grant North Carolina was awarded a five-year competitive grant (NC-SIP) for $7.4 million. The purpose of the grant is to establish and implement staff development support services to improve the performance (math and reading) and success of students with disabilities. There are four major goals for the grant: 1) improve math and reading skills performance for students with disabilities, 2) increase the percentage of qualified teachers if students with disabilities, 3) increase graduation rate and decrease dropout rates of students with disabilities, and 4) improve parent satisfaction with, and support of, school services for students with disabilities. Funds of $120,000 are being provided to start up the new grant sites in 2010-2011. Reading sites receiving $10,000 per year for five years include; Clinton City, Weldon City, Bladen County, Stokes County, Kannapolis City, Bertie County, and Richmond County. Math sites receiving $10,000 per year for five years include: Stanly County, Sampson County, Davie County, Henderson County, and Forsyth County.
• TCS 3 Council on Educational Services for Exceptional Children The State Board is requested to discuss the Council vacancy and provide a recommendation to fill the position of a parent of a child with disabilities. Approval of the individual will occur at the February meeting.

Update on Contracts

Contracts over $25,000 – 13 contracts

Contracts under $25,000 – 3 contracts

Thursday, January 6, 2011

State Board of Education Meeting, (9:00 AM) Dr. William Harrison, Chairman

Call to Order

Pledge of Allegiance:

Approval of Minutes

Special Presentation

• Mr. William (Bill) P.  Tatum, Lee County Board of Education

Key Initiatives Reports and Discussion

Career, college, Ready Set, Go/Race to the Top Update – Mr. Adam Levinson

• District and School Transformation Update-Dr. Pat Ashley
• Performance Navigator-Mr. Mike Martin

State Superintendent’s Report

• Dr. June Atkinson

Board Meeting and Committee Chair Reports

Information Agenda

Healthy Responsible Students

• HRS 2 Healthy Active Children Report 2010. The State Board will hear information on the 2010 Healthy Children Report, required annually from the LEAs. The summary report includes information on the minutes of physical activity, including recess and trend data. The presentation slides are available in the link provided at the beginning of this preview. Eleven LEAs did not report information as required and the list is included in the report. Only 40 percent of the Healthy Advisory Committees list a representative, which is required and only 38 percent meet quarterly. Fifty-three percent provide their reports to the local boards of education. Fifty-one percent report ALL of their elementary schools provide 150 minutes of weekly PE with a certified PE teacher, while 48 percent report ALL of their middle schools provide 225 minutes of weekly Healthful Living with a certified health and physical education teacher. The remainder of the report provides further information on such items as: the use of the  health advisory report, health assessment tools being used, staff wellness program, percent of LEAs withholding recess as punishment, health advisory commission training attended by LEA representative, and joint-use agreements.

Consent Agenda

Globally Competitive Students

• GCS 2 Changes and Clarifications to Policy GCS-A-012: Annual Measurable Achievement Objectives for NCLB Title III and Update to Title III State Plan The State Board is requested to approve the amendments to Policy GCS-A-012 and the Title III Plan, which includes policy amendments. After collecting two years worth of data from ACCESS for ELLS assessment, used for specifying annual measurable objectives to determine the percentage of students making progress toward English Language proficiency. Policy changes are being recommended, including the targets for proficiency. They include the following: 1) AMAO 1. Students identified as limited English proficient shall demonstrate progress by achieving one or more of the following in terms of the overall composite proficiency score on the annual English language proficiency test: 1) increase to the next English language proficiency level; 2) increase the previous score by 0.5; or 3) reach the Comprehensive Objective Composite. The new proficiency targets are as follows: 2010-2011-55.1, 2011-2012-, 56.1, 2011-2013-57.1, and 2013-2014 58.1, with all succeeding years increasing by 1.0 point. The policy update and information on the cut scores is included in the GCS 2 executive summary link provided at the beginning of this preview.

Healthy Responsible Students

• HRS 3 State Board of Education Study on Issues Related to Sports Injuries at Middle School and High School Levels The State Board is recommended to accept the study report as presented and to submit it to the General Assembly as required. The final report is due to the 2011 General Assembly upon convening.

21^st Century Professionals

• TCP 3 Proposed Qualifying Scores for Praxis II Physics (0265) and Regenerated Praxis II Exams in Elementary Education (0015) and Technology (0051) The State Board is asked to approve by consent the qualifying scores being recommend for Physics, Elementary Education, and Technology Education. NC is recommending a Physics test cut score of 133 after completing an in-state study conducted by the DPI Licensure Section. ETS conducted a standard setting process and has set a cut score of 161 for Elementary Education and a cut score of 159 for Technology Education. The new tests are for those individuals seeking a NC license in the above areas.
• TCP 4 Proposed Qualifying Scores for Praxis II Art: Content and Analysis (0135) The State Board is recommended to approve by consent the new cut score of 161 for Art: Content and Analysis (0135). The new test and score is appropriate for the assessment of individuals seeking an Art Education license in North Carolina.

Leadership for Innovation

• LFI 2 Approval of Charter School Technology Plans The State Board is requested to approve, by consent, the charter school technology plans submitted by the following schools: Cape Fear Center for Inquiry, Tiler Charter, Socrates Academy, Gray Stone Day School, Bridges Charter, and ArtSpace Charter.

Business/Finance and Advocacy

• TCS 4 School Bus Inspection Updates: Policy Regarding Preventive Maintenance and Vehicle Replacement Manual Updates (TCS-H-005) The State Board is recommended to approve, by consent, the recommended policy changes for school bus inspections. In 2006, TCS-H-005 was adopted and covers preventive maintenance, vehicle replacement, and school bus inspections. A new policy, TCS-H-011, was adopted and transportation staff began reviewing the “INSPECTION” section of the old policy and identified the need for technical updates to the inspection procedures to include best practices, and acknowledge the latest technology, since adoption of TCS-H-005 in 2006. Policy TCS-H-005 also includes technical changes to the “VEHICLES” section, reflecting changes in school bus specifications, adopted since 2006.

Action and Discussion Agenda

Chairman’s Remarks

• Dr. Bill Harrison, Chairman
• Legislative Update

Adjourn

Preview of December State Board of Education Meeting

Wednesday & Thursday, December 1, 2, 2010

The State Board of Education will meet on Wednesday, December 1, 2010 in committees.  They will begin with the Globally Competitive Students Committee, Healthy Responsible Students, 21^st Century Professionals Committee, Business/Finance and Advocacy Committee, and finish with the Leadership for Innovation Committee. On Thursday, they will meet to take Action on issues. Access to the SBE Executive Summaries and related documents are on the SBE website at the following link: http://www.ncpublicschools.org/stateboard/meetings/2010/12

Wednesday, December 1, 2010

Globally Competitive Students Committee (10:00 AM)

Action and Discussion Agenda

Action

• GCS 1 Credit Recovery The State Board is asked to approve the proposed amended policy on Credit Recovery. Credit Recovery has become an increasingly difficult issue due to the expansion of courses and delivery methods. Credit recovery may be for full course recovery or partial recovery courses. Policy changes will be implemented for 2011-2012 school year. The policy has eight new defining and clarifying sections, including the new social studies credit requirement for students entering ninth grade in 2012-2013: 1) Definition of the term “credit recovery,” refers to a block of instruction less than the entire Standard Course of Study which means  credit recovery delivers a subset of the actual course to address student deficiencies, 2) Define “repeating a course for credit” will be used to refer to a high school course repeated via any delivery method when the Standard Course of study for the course is being taught for a second time, 3) Define “repeating a course of credit” will allow students to receive a grade and take the associated End of Course (EOC). Students who have already made a Level III of IV may use the score as 25 percent of the final grade or retake the test. If the student retakes the test then the higher of the two scores will be used in calculating the final grade, 4) LEAs shall give a pass/fail for each credit recovery course and this will not impact a student’s GPA, 5) Students who wish to modify their GPA may repeat the course for credit and not seek a credit recovery solution, 6) Local boards may not limit the number of credit recovery courses taken by a student prior to graduation, 7) The EOC test associated with credit recovery shall be administered upon completion of the credit recovery course and no later than 30 calendar days. There is also a “Credit Recovery” briefing paper and a “Frequently Asked Questions” document. The documents are included in the Executive Summary link at the beginning of the preview.
• GCS 2 Senate Bill 66 Arts Education Task Force Recommendations The State Board  is requested to accept the report from the Arts Education Task Force that was appointed this year to address several issues. The issues considered were as follows; 1) Policies to implement arts education in public schools including an art requirement in grades k-5, 2) Availability of all four arts disciplines in grades 6-8, with students required to take one arts course in each school year, and 3) Availability of electives in the arts at the high school level. The Task Force met in November and has included a series of recommendations in its report to JLEOC beginning with those associated with the Basic Education Plan (BEP): 1) Implement K-12 Arts Education as defined in the Basic Education Program-Required K-5-All four arts in grades 6-8 with students required to take at least one each year and available as electives at the high school level, 2) Establish The Basic Education Plan with designated additional categorical funding allotments for arts education positions at elementary, middle and high school, establish procedures and timeline for phased-in implementation, establish equitable staffing allocation to assist small and low-wealth schools systems, 3) Ensure appropriately licensed arts educators deliver all arts education classes, LEA), 4) Use art teachers as resources and consultants with schools and across LEAs, and 5) Establish arts education accountability incentives for schools under the accountability component of the Accountability and Curriculum Reform Effort (ACRE) for providing arts education and arts integration and the completion of concentrations in arts education. The next set of recommendations in the report is related to the high school graduation requirement: 1) Establish a high school graduation requirement in the arts beginning with entering freshmen during the 2013-2014 school year, 2) Require an arts unit for admission to the UNC system of colleges and universities, and 3) Restore the arts education requirement to the NC Scholars Program. The A+ School Program recommendations are as follows: 1) Expand the nationally recognized, research-based A+ Schools Program as a model for whole school reform with arts instruction central to student learning and integrated throughout the curriculum, and 2) Use A+ teachers as resources and consultants within schools and across LEAs. The Arts Integration recommendations are as follows: 1) Prioritize arts integration as a primary component of education reform, 2) Require arts integration as a component of teacher administrator preparation and licensure, 3) Use the NC Educator Evaluations System to assess teachers’ use of arts integration, and 4) Use art teachers as resources and consultants for arts integration within schools and across LEAs. The final recommendations are related to Arts Exposure and include: 1) Use state and local arts organizations, education programs, highly qualified teacher artists, and other resources to increase exposure to the arts for teachers and students both within and outside the classroom, and 2) Strengthen ties between school, parent, and school organizations, and community arts programs.  These recommendations, once approved, will be submitted to JLEOC by December 1, 2010.
• GCS 3 K-12 Social Studies Essential Standards The State Board is requested to approve Version 2 of the Social Studies standards. They can be found at http://www.publicschools.org/acre/standards/phase2.

November Committee Meeting: Staff presented an overview of the latest Social Studies curriculum draft. The National Council of Social Studies states: Social Studies is the “integrated study of the social sciences and humanities to promote civic competence.” Over the past eighteen months staff and others have prepared this latest draft for the curriculum. A draft released earlier this year had major changes and was met with very negative responses from the community including the legislature. Literacy standards are embedded in the social studies program as well as character education, NAEP standards, and financial components. Extensive feedback was received before completion of this latest version. The instruction will begin in K-3 with establishing the foundation for Social Studies, 4^th grade will be a study of North Carolina, 5^th grade US History, 6^th grade World Geography, History and Culture, Beginnings of society through the first Global Age, 7^th grade Modern Civilization, Global Convergence through the present, 8^th grade is NC and US History, 9^th, 10^th, 11^th and 12^th grade will have two US History courses (Part 1 and 2), Civics and Economics, and World History. The plan is to require four History courses for graduation (presently there are only 3 courses required). The intent is to include new electives related to History: Psychology, Sociology, 21^st Century Geography, The Cold War, Turning Points in American History, 20^th Century Civil Liberties, Civil Rights, World Humanities Seminar, and American Humanities Seminar. As part of the accountability for the new curriculum they plan to use an essay test rather than the standard multiple choice. They are recommending a “documents-based” exam to test the student’s knowledge of early founding documents (Federalist Papers). They could have these exams ready as soon as 2012, and they would use teachers from other districts to grade the papers. This would address the concern about the multiple choice bubble tests that do not require critical thinking.

Action on First Reading

• GCS 4 K-12 Social Studies Essential Standards: Associated Policy Amendments The State Board is asked to approve amended changes to the Social Studies policies based on the new essential standards to be approved by the State Board in December. Policies GCS-N-004 and GCS-M-001 are updated to show an increase in the Social Studies graduation requirement from three credits to four credits. Approval of the increase will change the graduation requirements from 21 to 22 units. The policy is changed for the graduation requirement in Social Studies begins with the entering ninth grade class in 2012-2013. The policy is available at the link listed at the beginning of this preview.

Discussion

• GCS 5 North Carolina’s Proposed New Accountability Model – Possible Bonus Indicators The State Board will discuss and provide additional information to DPI on the incentives component of the new accountability model.  At the October SBE meeting the SBE approved the following five indicators: 1) student performance (EOC/End of Grade-EOG), 2) post-secondary readiness, 3) student growth, 5-year cohort graduation rate, and 5) mathematics course rigor (Algebra II or Integrated Mathematics III). Staff will share ideas regarding the incentive component of the model and provide a preview of the new reporting system that builds upon earlier work presented to the SBE in what was called the Quadrants Report at the LEA Level.

Old Business

• Update on Adult High School Programs

Healthy Responsible Students Committee (11:35 AM)

Discussion

• HRS1 State Board of Education Study on Issues Related to Sports Injuries at Middle School and High School Levels The State Board will review the study report required by the General Assembly on Sports Injuries. The final report is due to the 2011 General Assembly upon convening. The report was not included in the State Board link listed above, but will be provided to SBE members just prior to the December meeting.

Old Business

• Update on NASBE Grants

 

21^st Century Professionals Committee (1:00 PM)

Action and Discussion Agenda

Action

• TCP 1 Approval of Two Alternative Principal Leadership Academies The State Board is asked to approve the Sandhills Leadership Academy and the Piedmont Triad Leadership Academy. The Sandhills Leadership Academy includes the following districts: Anson, Cumberland, Harnett, Hoke, Lee, Montgomery, Moore, Richmond, Robeson and Scotland schools. The Piedmont Triad Academy includes the following districts: Alamance, Asheboro City, Guilford, and Winston-Salem Forsyth.  The RttT grant includes two principal leadership academies. The academies primary purpose will be to offer initial licensure to principals who will then serve in high-needs schools. Four requests for proposals were submitted for consideration and staff recommends approval of the two listed academies.

Discussion

• TCP 2 Approval if Re-Visioned Teacher Education Programs The State Board will discuss an updated list of teacher education programs for approval next month. A chart of the programs approved is included in the link listed at the beginning of this preview under TCP 2.
• TCP 3 Proposed Qualifying Scores for Praxis II Physics (0265) and Regenerated Praxis II Exams in Elementary Education (0015) and Technology (0051) The State Board will discuss the qualifying scores being recommend for Physics, Elementary Education, and Technology Education. NC is recommending a Physics test cut score of 133 after completing an in-state study conducted by the DPI Licensure Section. ETS conducted a standard setting process and has set a cut score of 161 for Elementary Education and a cut score of 159 for Technology Education. The new tests are for those individuals seeking a NC license in the above areas.

 

Business/Finance and Advocacy Committee Meeting (1:45 PM)

Action and Discussion Agenda

Action

• TCS 1 Reappointment or Replacement of Compliance Commission Members, Appointment of a New Chairperson, and Amendments to Policy TCS-B-00 The State Board is requested to approve the recommendations for reappointments and for appointment of new members to the Compliance Commission as well amendments to policy TCS-B-00. David Jenkins, Martin County, reappointment, Cindy Goodman, Scotland County, reappointment, Heidi Von Dohlen, Buncombe County, reappointment, Wanda Bunch Business Representative, reappointment, replace Max Walser with Kelly Lynn Blain, Person County teacher, Ruberina McGee, teacher Graham County replacing Michael Hooks, Muriel Summers, Principal Wake County, replacing Kirk Denning, Pamela Jackson, EC Programs Harnett County, replacing Teresa Eason, Jefferey Peal, Associate Superintendent Alexander County, replacing David Burleson, and Stewart Hobbs Jr., Stokes Superintendent designated as Chairman. Policy changes include; 1) Removing authority for the Commission to deny appeals of schools that want a field testing exemption, for a specific school year, 2) Commission shall meet annually and notification of meetings for State Board is no longer required, and 3) Eliminate the absence rule, which notes three consecutive absences shall constitute resignation of commission member.
• TCS 2 DHHS Transition Plan for Organizational Structure and Student Instructional Services at the Residential Schools The State Board is recommended to approve the final plan to submit to the various committees of the General Assembly in December. Effective June 30, 2011, DPI will have responsibility for the total services, staff, programming and facilities at the three NC residential schools. The plan envisions four staff members to serve as the central office for the three schools and to oversee all activities at the schools. The plan addresses a series of requirements set in Session Law 2010-31. The executive summary contains organizational charts and other documents detailing the plan to be considered by the State Board. Several options are presented for consideration and  for a final decision to complete the plan: Option 1) Establish a governing board for the three residential schools and determine if the board functions as an advisory board with the superintendent reporting to the board or if the board functions as a local board with the superintendent reporting to the local board for the three residential schools, and Option 2) Establish a small central office similar to an LEA wherein the Superintendent has three positions reporting to him/her. DPI is requesting a minimum of eight additional staff to carry out the responsibilities of managing these three schools. In an effort to improve student achievement each school will require a principal. The director has operational responsibilities and cannot assist with the academic aspects of the school. This is the position that was previously cut and will need to be reinstated to ensure the academic success of the students. Staff will review any changes that were shared with the State Board in November prior to seeking final approval.

Action on First Reading

• TCS 3 Additional Schools Selected from Applications for the Reading Diagnostic Initiative The State Board is requested to approve Cohort I and Cohort III to participate in the Reading Diagnostic initiative. Cohort I was shared last month and includes 76 schools. After further review it was determined 67 additional schools (Cohort III) could be added to the list for approval. The Cohort I and III lists are included in the State Board documents under the TCS 3 section in the link listed in the Preview opening.

Discussion

• TCS 4 Race to the Top (RttT) – Incentives to Support Teacher Recruitment and Retention in the Lowest achieving Schools The State Board will discuss teacher recruitment and retention recommendations. In the RttT proposal, NC indicated they would provide every new teacher who choose to work in the lowest achieving schools, regardless of their entry into teaching, with a voucher that can be used for the following: 1) Forgiveness of student loans for each year of teaching, 2) Tuition for obtaining a Master’s degree in education, educational administration, or the content area in which they teach, and 3) Housing, or a combination of the three. The value of the voucher is equal to the cost of two semesters of coursework, two courses per semester at an in-state-degree granting program. This will be an Action item in January.
• TCS 5 NCVPS Advisory Board: Membership Nominees The State Board will discuss the roster of individuals recommended for the NCVPS Advisory Board in 2011. Fifteen individuals are being nominated from the various districts and at-large slots. This will bring the total membership of the NCVPS Advisory Board to 27 members. This will be an Action item in January.

Update on Contracts

Contracts over $25,000 – 19 contracts

Contracts under $25,000 – 7 contracts

 

Leadership For Innovation Committee Meeting (3:10 PM)

New Business

• NCVPS/LEO Director’s Report:
• Update on Agri-Science/BioTechnology Commission Report
• Update on Online Assessment and e-Textbooks

Thursday, December 2, 2010

State Board of Education Meeting, (9:00 AM) Dr. William Harrison, Chairman

Call to Order

Pledge of Allegiance:

Approval of Minutes

 

Special Recognition-2010 Irena Sendler Award “For Repairing the World”

• Mr. Lee Holder, Social Studies Teacher, Lenoir County Schools

Special Recognition– Outgoing Local Board Advisor to the State Board of Education

• Dr. George Litton

 

Key Initiatives Reports and Discussion

Ø  Career, college, Ready Set, Go/Race to the Top Update-Adam Levinson

• ACRE Update-Ms. Angela Quick
• District and School Transformation Update
• CEDARS Update Mr. Adam Levinson

 

Special Reports to the State Board of Education

• Global Schools Network Update- Mr. David Young, Chief Executive Officer, Visiting International Faculty International Education
• Annual Report on the North Carolina Center for the Advancement of Teaching (NCCAT) – Dr. Mary McDuffie, Executive Director

Board Meeting and Committee Chair Reports

Action and Discussion Agenda

Superintendent’s Report

• Dr. June Atkinson.

 

Chairman’s Remarks

• Dr. Bill Harrison, Chairman
• Legislative Update

 

Adjourn

 

 

Summary of November State Board of Education Meeting

Wednesday & Thursday, November 3, 4, 2010

The State Board of Education met on Wednesday, November 3, 2010 in committees.  They began with the Globally Competitive Students Committee, 21^st Century Professionals Committee, Leadership for Innovation Committee, and finish with the Business/Finance and Advocacy Committee. On Thursday, they met to vote.

CLICK HERE to visit the State Board Web site for access to Executive Summaries and related documents

Wednesday, November 3, 2010

Globally Competitive Students Committee (10:00 AM)

Action and Discussion Agenda

Action

• GCS 1 Future-Ready OCS: Proposed Change to Mathematics Graduation Requirement The State Board APPROVED the recommendation that students participating in the FR-OCS be allowed to substitute the mathematics course, Applied Mathematics II or the career/technical education course, Personal Finance (7066) for OCS Financial Management. Students in this program must complete three mathematics courses. They are required to complete: OCS Introduction to Mathematics, OCS Algebra I, and OCS Financial Management. DPI recommends students participating in this course of study, be allowed to substitute the mathematics course, Applied Mathematics II or the Career and Technical Education Course, Personal Finance, for OCS Financial Management. The Personal Finance Course aligns very closely with the OCS Course and both were developed using Blooms Taxonomy. The applied Mathematics II course, while not designed for students with disabilities, is helpful in teaching students, practical application. This will assist students in completing their graduation requirements and will also make it easier for school systems to comply with federal requirements of having a highly qualified teacher in every core content class.

Committee Meeting: No further discussion.

• GCS 2 Textbook Evaluation Policies The State Board APPROVED staff recommendations for changes to amend Textbook Policies GCS-H-000, GCS-H-002 and GCS-H-007. The revisions are primarily to streamline the language. The proposed policy changes are as follows; GCS-H-00 will be changed to require the schedule for the evaluation process to be included in the “Invitation to Submit Textbooks” document, GCS-H-002 will require the procedures for the regional textbook evaluation to be included in the “Invitation to Submit Textbooks” document, and GCS-H-007 is revised as the “Textbook and Evaluation Adoption” policy. A copy of this policy will be available online in the Executive Summary link.

Committee Meeting: Brief overview, no further discussion.

Action on First Reading

• GCS 3 2010-2011 Invitation to Submit Textbooks for English Language Arts for Evaluation and Adoption in North Carolina The State Board APPROVED the invitation for evaluation and adoption of textbooks. The invitation is for English/Language Arts and includes rules and regulations based on General Statutes, Administrative Code, and State Board Policy that govern the adoption process.

Committee Meeting Board member Tate asked about the efforts to move to more digital books. Staff is expecting digital proposals, but until all students have access to computers it makes it hard to convert to all digital. Staff indicated digital adoptions have occurred with Career and Technical courses, primarily.

Discussion

• GCS 4 Credit Recovery The State Board reviewed the proposed amended policy Credit recovery has become increasingly difficult due to the expansion of courses and delivery methods. Credit recovery may be for full course recovery or partial recovery courses. Policy changes will be implemented for 2011-2012 school year. The policy has seven new defining and clarifying sections; 1) definition of the term “credit recovery,” refers to a block of instruction less than the entire Standard Course of Study which means  credit recovery delivers a subset of the actual course to address student deficiencies, 2) define “repeating a course for credit” will be used to refer to high school course repeated via any delivery method when the Standard Course of study for the course is being taught for a second time, 3) define “repeating a course of credit” will allow students to receive a grade and take the associated EOC. Students who have already made a Level III of IV may use the score as 25 percent of the final grade or retake the test. If the student retakes the test then the higher of the two scores will be used in calculating the final grade, 4) LEAs shall give a pass/fail for each credit recovery course and this will not impact a student’s GPA, 5) students who wish to modify their GPA may repeat the course for credit and not seek a credit recovery solution, 6) local boards may not limit the number of credit recovery courses taken by a student prior to graduation, 7) the EOC test associated with credit recovery shall be administered upon completion of the credit recovery course and no later than 30 calendar days. There is also a “Credit Recovery” briefing paper and a “Frequently Asked Questions” document. The documents are included in the Executive Summary link at the beginning of the preview.

Committee Meeting: Extensive discussion was held about the process for developing the policies under consideration. The purpose for the policy is get consistency across the LEAs with credit recovery since many different things are occurring in the field. Members discussed whether credit recovery should be allowed for course failings due to attendance problems. A question was raised about the NC High School Athletic Association’s position on the policy and credit recovery. Members were told they support the proposal. Board members had many questions including why LEAs do not participate in credit recovery. Is there a way to require LEAs to offer credit recovery? The SBE can set their policy to require LEAs to use the program. The difficulty arises with, making course schedules, the need for additional supervisory personnel for the program, and the fiscal impact for providing credit recovery (including the cost of the courses). Board members want to see it in all NC high schools, since it should improve the graduation rate. The graduation rate is an important issue for the success of high schools and their students and is part of NC education goals.

• GCS 5 Blue Ribbon Task Force Report on Studying Impacts of Raising Compulsory Attendance Age State Board members reviewed the report required by the 2010 Session Law. The task force studied the impact of raising the compulsory attendance age to 17 or 18. Four questions were posed for a response. The report shall be submitted by November 15^th to Joint Legislative Commission on Dropout Prevention and Graduation as well as the Joint Legislative Education Oversight Committee. The complete report can be accessed by following the link to the Executive Summary listed above. Key Recommendations: 1) increasing the attendance age can only be successful if supplemental programs are in place targeting at-risk students, 2) a larger more comprehensive study should be conducted within the context of law enforcement and juvenile justice, 3) eight pilot programs should be  conducted, one in each region of the state giving the LEAs the flexibility to develop the pilot based on the unique needs of their student body and, 4) regardless of the whether the age is raised, consistent ongoing teacher training supplemental programs relevant to students and curriculum material are critical. The conclusion in the report states North Carolina needs to improve on successes of the past in providing students with skills and habits to meet and exceed graduation requirements. The system needs to improve by examining current practices and policies, hiring and retaining great teachers and leaders along with working with businesses and other agencies. A copy of the report is available in GCS5 at the link, noted at the beginning of the preview.

Committee Meeting: A Blue Ribbon Task Force was appointed and met two times to respond to the legislative study. The main recommendation was for another task force to be appointed and spend one year studying the overall impact (including fiscal) of this change. Twenty-six states have an age of 18 for attendance, 8 states have 17 years of age, and 24 states have 16 years of age. One issue raised was will increasing the attendance age increase the graduation rate and if you don’t change your practice for at-risk students they will just disrupt learning for everyone. Eight LEAs in Florida had pilots to increase the attendance age. Staff reported these were very successful. There appears to be grass roots support to increase the age. The task force recommended pilots in eight regions of the State. The report is due November 15^th. Board member McDevitt said the lack of a clear recommendation to change the age was simply we “kicking the can down the street,” and the SBE needed to either phase-in the compulsory attendance age increase or require it on a date certain. Dr. Atkinson noted the cover letter with the report could indicate the board’s determination to move forward and increase the age for attendance. Dr. Harrison asked if the Blue Ribbon Task Force, could expand the group with people from NCASA, NCSBA, and NCAE, and finish their work in 6 months answering many of the questions left unsettled with the two Fall meetings. Chairman Harrison requested the Task Force review the states with higher age attendance requirements to determine whether raising the attendance age is effective in increasing the graduation rates and if there are any other issues to be addressed with this age change.

• GCS 6 Senate Bill 66 Arts Education Task Force Recommendations The State Board  reviewed the report from the Arts Education Task Force that was appointed this year to address several issues. The issues considered were as follows; 1) policies to implement arts education in public schools including an art requirement in grades k-5, 2) availability of all four arts disciplines in grades 6-8, with students required to take one arts course in each school year, and 3) the availability of electives in the arts at the high school level. In addition, the Task Force shall look at a high school graduation requirement in the arts and further development of the A+ Schools Program.  Recommendations shall be submitted to JLEOC by December 1, 2010.

Committee Meeting: Dr. Garland discussed the report. They reviewed adding an arts course as a graduation requirement and looked at A+ schools expansion. They studied the information on arts education in elementary and middle schools. They plan to complete their report on December 1 to submit to the legislature. The report includes several recommendations: 1) implement K-5 arts instruction every year, 2) no consensus was reached on requiring an arts course for graduation from high school, 3) broaden the A+ schools program through a phase in approach, 4) expand arts exposure for all students and teachers using community resources. Other recommendations include staff development in the arts for all staff, accountability by creating incentives for schools to include arts education, funding resources should be identified, and arts integration personnel are needed at DPI and for the A+ schools.  Board members were told 75 percent of high school students already take a high school arts course, annually.

• GCS 7 K-12 Social Studies Essential Standards The State Board discussed Version 2 of the Social Studies standards. The Standards are available for feedback though November 10^th. They can be found at http://www.publicschools.org/acre/standards/phase2.

Committee Meeting: Staff presented an overview of the latest Social Studies curriculum draft. The National Council of Social Studies states: Social Studies is the “integrated study of the social sciences and humanities to promote civic competence.” Over the past eighteen months staff and others have prepared this latest draft for the curriculum. A draft released earlier this year had major changes and was met with very negative responses from the community including the legislature. Literacy standards are embedded in the social studies program as well as character education, NAEP standards, and financial components. Extensive feedback was received before completion of this latest version. The instruction will begin in K-3 with establishing the foundation for Social Studies, 4^th grade will be a study of North Carolina, 5^th grade US History, 6^th grade World Geography, History and Culture, Beginnings of society through the first Global Age, 7^th grade Modern Civilization, Global Convergence through the present, 8^th grade is NC and US History, 9^th, 10^th, 11^th and 12^th grade will have two US History courses (Part 1 and 2), Civics and Economics, and World History. The plan is to require four History courses for graduation (presently there are only 3 courses required). The intent is to include new electives related to History: Psychology, Sociology, 21^st Century Geography, The Cold War, Turning Points in American History, 20^th Century Civil Liberties, Civil Rights, World Humanities Seminar, and American Humanities Seminar. As part of the accountability for the new curriculum they plan to use an essay test rather than the standard multiple choice. They are recommending a “documents-based” exam to test the student’s knowledge of early founding documents (Federalist Papers). They could have these exams ready as soon as 2012, and they would use teachers from other districts to grade the papers. This would address the concern about the multiple choice bubble tests that do not require critical thinking. Input is still being received on this draft through November 10^th.

21^st Century Professionals Committee (1:00 PM)

Action and Discussion Agenda

Action

• TCP 1 Revision of Board Policy to Reflect Changes in the Beginning Teacher Support Program The State Board APPROVED changes to the Board policy regarding the Beginning Teacher Support Program. Each LEA develops a program/plan for beginning teachers, which is approved by the local board, reviewed, and monitored. There are a series of changes to Policy TCP-A-004, including, but not limited to, the five-year formal review and an annual review process as recommended by the mentor task force. Other changes in the policy address changing the word Individual Growth Plan to the Professional Development Plan. Other changes include working conditions for beginning teachers, local board plan approval, annual peer review and information on the five–year formal reporting requirements. A copy of the policy is available at the Executive Summary link at the beginning of this preview.

Committee Meeting: The policy will provide needed changes and support for beginning teachers. Board members requested information on the number of teachers who complete three years of teaching, but fail to get their Professional 2 license.

Discussion

• TCP 2 Recommendations from the Advisory Board on Requests for Exception from Teacher Licensing Requirements The State Board is requested to approve the actions related to each request. The panel recommendations are presented to the SBE in closed session.

Leadership For Innovation Committee Meeting (1:30 PM)

Action and Discussion Agenda

Action

• LFI 1 Final Decision in Contested Case
  • North Carolina Marine Sciences High School, Inc. (Cape Lookout) 10 EDC 1104 The State Board issued a final agency decision in the contested case. The State Board decided to non-renew the charter for Cape Lookout. The administrative law judge recommended renewing the charter for Cape Lookout through June 30, 2012. The respondent has filed exceptions. This is a closed session item.

Board Meeting: Move to amend the ALJ findings and reject their decision and reaffirm the SBE decision to close Cape Lookout due to excessive dropouts.

New Business

• Technical Readiness for Online Assessment:
• NCVPS/LEO Director’s Report: Brian Setser presented on NCVPS and mobile learning. Mobile lessons for online courses was tested this fall. The SAT prep lesson was piloted. There is also a list through NCVPS of mobile course options.

Business/Finance and Advocacy Committee Meeting (2:10 PM)

Action and Discussion Agenda

Action

• TCS 1 2011-2013 Biennial Budget Expansion Request The State Board APPROVED the expansion budget needs as listed. The expansion budget requests for 2011-2013 are due to OSBM on November 12, 2010. There is a list of nine expansion items: 1) $304,774,366-LEA Adjustment/Discretionary Reduction, 2) $19,722,637-Ready Set Go-Fund all 8^th graders to take EXPLORE assessment, 10^th graders to take PLAN, and 11^th graders to take ACT. Also funding for “Boot Camp,” and alternate assessments, 3) $477,267-Restore Governor’s School funding, 4) $247,650-Web Services-fund the public schools website, 5) $173,421 Internal Audit-add two internal auditors, 6) $995,300 Learn and Earn High Schools, 7) $41,156-Technology Services Time Tracking, 8) $589,210 Update Wiring in education building, 9) $20,000,000-Healthy Student’s Initiative by supporting school lunch programs. The expansion items total $347,021,007. In calculating the 5, 10 and 15 percent cuts to public schools the amounts were included in the documents. The amount for 5 percent is $418,512,811, 10 percent is $837,025,621 and 15 percent is $1,255,538,432 and these figures do not include the $304 million of the discretionary cut. The cuts to DPI for the percentages are as follows: $2,164,334, $4,328,668, and $6,493,002. A complete copy of these documents is in the Executive Summary link.

Committee Meeting: Philip Price reviewed the budget issues for board members. School districts have a recurring $304 million annual reversion required. In 2010, the LEAs returned 3,200 teaching positions as well as principals, assistant principals, and instructional support personnel to meet this annual cut. Staff has taken the $304 million and added the requested 5 percent reduction for a total of $700 million equaling a 9 percent reduction. There was no recommendation on specifically where the cuts can be made for the upcoming budget session. If you remove all teachers from possible cuts more than 50 percent of the state public school fund is spent on teachers and this would only leave 50 percent of the budget for major cuts. Personnel will definitely be impacted to reach meet the potential cuts requested of 5, 10, and 15 percent. The State deficit could be as high as $3.6 billion next school year. The deficit includes the federal stimulus funds no longer available to the states, State taxes that expire, and over $400 million in non-recurring cuts placed back in the public school budget for 2010-2011, such as textbooks. At DPI every 5 percent cut will require cutting 25 jobs. All state agency cuts are due by Friday, November 5 to the state budget office. Questions were raised about the expansion items included in this item. The expansion items are listed above and the main question dealt with the “Boot Camp” funding and the name change of the program.

Board Meeting: Expansion items must be made in priority order by mid-November. The Board voted to approve the list as presented by staff without further discussion.

• TCS 2 Revisions to Benefits and Employment Policy Manual 2010-11 for Public School Employees The State Board APPROVED 17 revisions to policy TCP-D-003. Changes are being made to the following sections: 1.1.9– Define “bona fide volunteer” 1.1.12 Clarify definition of immediate family for FMLA, 3.1.3 Coordinate FMLA changes for vacation leave, 4.1.2 Clarify when FMLA emergency leave applies for sick leave, 4.1.8 +10 Leave reinstatement change (63 months), 4.2.1 Extended Sick Leave-track license name (media coordinator), 4.3.2 Clarify exhaust available leave under voluntary shared leave, 4.3.4 Non-family donation of sick leave under voluntary shared leave, 4.3.7 Voluntary Shared Leave-Unused Leave returned to donors,  5.1.1 Personal Leave-Track license name (media coordinator), 5.1.2 Track changes in statute under personal leave, 8.1.2-28 Track FMLA Regulations & NDAA, 14.1.2 -5 Track Changes in Statute for Probationary Teachers, 14.2.3-11 Add Media Specialist & use Career Status, 15.1.1 Track Changes to Statute School Calendar, 16.1 Legislation eliminated these provisions for retired teacher employment, 16.2.1-5 Track legislation & update data & numbering for employment of retirees. A copy of these changes is available in the Executive Summary link in the opening paragraph under Section TCS 2.

Committee Meeting: Federal law, federal regulations, and state law changes have resulted in the necessary changes listed above. No further discussion.

Action on First Reading

• TCS 3 Schools Selected from Applications for Reading Diagnostic Initiative The State Board APPROVED the list of schools that volunteered and were then chosen to participate in the Reading Diagnostic Program. There are 183 schools participating in Governor Perdues’ Reading Diagnostic Program. There were 27 pilot schools last year and 156 schools were added at the beginning of this year (73 Reading First Schools and 83 invited schools). Invitations were sent to superintendents and others to become part of the initiative. DPI received 368 applications and there is space for 200 more schools to join the program. The new schools will train in November /December and begin the first benchmark assessments in mid-January. A list of the schools is included in the Executive Summary with the link provided in the opening paragraph, Section TCS 3.

Committee Meeting: Staff reviewed the history of the schools who are in the program (information listed above). A new updated list was provided to Board member with a total of 238 schools to be added (38 more). There are more than 1500 elementary schools statewide who can participate in the program. They showed where the schools are in the counties and staff hopes to return next month with more schools depending on funding availability. Fifteen districts do not have any schools in the program. Some of these counties include: Wilkes, Davidson, Randolph, Jones, Johnston, Pender, and Buncombe. Chairman Harrison indicated most, if not all, of the LEAs already have programs they are using or have recently purchased technology and software.  Therefore they do not want to switch at this time. Chairman Harrison has sent word they have one year to show the value of their program before they will have to add schools from their LEA to the new reading diagnostic initiative.

Discussion

• TCS 4 Reappointment or Replacement of Compliance Commission Members, Appointment of a New Chairperson, and Amendments to Policy TCS-B-00 The State Board discussed the recommendations for reappointments and for new members of the Compliance Commission as well as the amendments to policy TCS-B-00. David Jenkins, Martin County, reappointment, Cindy Goodman, Scotland County for reappointment, Heidi Von Dohlen, Buncombe County for reappointment, Wanda Bunch Business Representative for reappointment, replace Max Walser with Kelly Lynn Blain, Person County teacher, and Stewart Hobbs Jr. Stokes Superintendent as Chairman. Policy changes include; 1) Removing authority for Commission to deny appeals of schools that want a field testing exemption for a specific school year, 2) Commission shall meet annually and notification of meetings for State Board is no longer required, 3) Eliminate the absence rule which notes three consecutive absences shall constitute resignation of commission member.

Committee Meeting: Staff presented the names of the individuals listed above for the Compliance Commission and the change to the policy. There are four more names needed and the Board plans to approve all the commission members at their December meeting.

• TCS 5 DHHS Transition Plan for Organizational Structure and Student Instructional Services at the Residential Schools The State Board reviewed the plans and provide recommendations for the final plan to be approved in December. Effective June 30, 2011, DPI will have responsibility for the total services, staff, programming and facilities at the three NC residential schools. The plan envisions four staff members to serve as the central office for the three schools and to oversee all activities at the schools. The plan must be submitted to several legislative committee of the General Assembly by December 1, 2010. The plan addresses a series of requirements set in Session Law 2010-31. The executive summary contains organizational charts and other documents detailing the plan to be considered by the State Board. This item will be on Action in December.

Committee Meeting: Staff began discussing the work to meet the state law requiring DPI to assume responsibility for the three residential schools in NC. They reviewed the process and all their work with DHHS previously and up to this point. Board members will need to approve the final plans in December. Staff discussed two different plans with respect to the schools. Plan 1 would leave the three schools to serve students as they currently do and then appoint a Human Rights Commission to deal with all grievances. Plan 2 would consolidate the three schools and locate all the students as space permits at the Governor Morehead School in Raleigh. The other two schools would be used as resource centers for the students and many of the students at those schools would likely stay in their districts and attend their local school and use the resource center as needed. Organization charts were shared with the Board. Board members discussed the recommendation to consolidate the school at the Governor Morehead School, while Wilson is the newest and largest school and Morganton was recently renovated. Staff indicated it was merely proximity to DPI. Ms. Watson discussed the academic issues with these schools and shared data on reading and math scores for students at the various schools. As an example some of the test scores in the residential schools compared with the scores of similar students in public schools were as much as 20 to 40 percentage points lower in the residential schools. The goal is to improve the scores by 10 percentage points next year. Dr. Ashley and the Transformation group has been asked to evaluate the schools because the scores are so low. The schools will be treated as low-performing schools. There are fifteen hospital schools who will continue to be supervised by DHHS, but DPI is coordinating on the academic aspects of the hospital facilities (i.e.  O’Berry, Whitaker, etc.). In addition, the organization charts are not changing except that each school will have a principal. The director has too many responsibilities running the residential facility to handle academics, and so the principal is needed to manage the student’s instructional program. The Board will also need to provide direction on Plan 1 or 2 with staff soon.

Update on Contracts

Contracts over $25,000 – 25 contracts

Contracts under $25,000 – 15 contracts

Thursday, November 4, 2010

State Board of Education Meeting, (9:30 AM) Dr. William Harrison, Chairman

Call to Order

Pledge of Allegiance: Mr. Reginald Kenan

Approval of Minutes

Special Recognition-Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching

• 2009 Awardee in 7-12 Science
  • Ms. Judith Jones, Chapel Hill/Carboro Schools
• 2009 Awardee in 7-12 Mathematics
  • Ms. Maria Hernandez, Math, NC School of Science in Mathematics
• 2010 Finalists in K-6 Mathematics
  • Ms. Amanda Northrup, Haywood County Schools
  • Ms. Rebecca Pearce, Guilford County Schools
  • Ms. Penelope Shockley, Chapel Hill/Carboro
• 2010 Finalists in K-6 Science
  • Ms. Zebetta King, Wake County Schools
  • Ms. Amanda McLean, Caldwell County Schools

Key Initiatives Reports and Discussion

Early Childhood Education Study (More At Four) – John Pruitt presented the results of the external evaluation of More at Four Program. Ten years of research in program is not complete. Seventy-five percent of the children being served in More at Four are below the poverty level. The majority of students in More at Four have never been served in any early childhood care setting. The latest study tracked the learning gains of students who started in More at Four through the third grade. Past evaluations have shown high quality pre-kindergarten and having highly qualified teachers in the classroom children show greater gains in knowledge. Learning growth is above average in literacy, language, math and social skills. Longitudinal studies have shown that the program has produced accelerated learning into Kindergarten. The question is “Do these effects persist years after they enter school?” The legislature wanted to find the impact of More at Four children in 3^rd grade Reading and Math EOG (four years after the students were left the program). The evaluation indicated children had achieved statistically significant scores compared to similar economically disadvantaged children who were not served in More at Four. The data clearly shows the third grade test scores gap between poor children in the More at Four program and middle class children had significantly been closed by as much as 37 percentage points in Reading (2006-2007), 24 percent Reading (2007-2008) and 31 percent in Math (2006-2008). How do we maximize our investment in pre-K? Strengthen the public Pre-k program for our most vulnerable children. Efforts to align curriculum standards for K-3 and More at Four are critical going forward. The next step is to further evaluate learning growth and this report will be released in early 2011. Random assessment of students may be done in the future, but it has not been done nationally. This would be a significant study. Board members are concerned the charts and data are not clear and needs to be simplified for the legislature and other outside groups. Reading assessment changed and so they were separated, but Math was combined. Questions arose regarding the waiting list and who is eligible to apply for slots in the program. There is a rigorous methodology for admitting children, but there are still waiting lists for the program. Many children are not being served. Funding for the More at Four has been cut $10 million in recent years as well as major cuts to the Smart Start program. The results of the study need to be communicated clearly to members of the public to show the lasting gains for students who enter the More at Four program.

Career College Ready Set Go/Race to the Top Update – Mr. Adam Levinson said the Race to the Top website is being used in the LEAs. He presented an overview of the Race to the Top work. There are many aspects of the effort and they include: ACRE, District Transformation, Education Technology Cloud, and Professional Development Plan. There are two key deadlines: by November 8 each LEA and charter school will submit a detailed scope of work plan and the state scope of work will need to be submitted by November 22 to USED (US Education Department). Communication (website) is critical piece of work and needs to include everyone in education across the State. Twenty-three sessions were recently held to discuss completing the LEA plans across the State.  A presentation will be given to Joint Legislative Education Oversight next week. RTT is a four-year plan with possible modifications in the process as it goes along. Significant contracts will need to be completed to stay on schedule.  The Education Cloud Technology Initiative was presented by Peter Asmar. Key pieces of this project include: equity of access to systems, data tools, having a common platform, and the cost savings associated with shared technology. All LEAs are connected and so there are shared services, and the Cloud will be an opt-in to participate with the technology and software, which will ultimately save substantial funds. The Cloud creates capacity for the LEAs to access technology and programs without significant cost. IT Management, is an example of one program and LEAs can pick and choose different services (opt in process). LEAs only pay for the services they decide to use. Lt. Governor Dalton wants to see access for K-20 so more can be shared, with greater cost savings and efficiency. K-20 synergy is critical to saving funds and linking data. Funding could be provided through the State General Fund to add more software options. Lynn Johnson presented on the Professional Development Initiative. She will employ a system that helps teachers apply the new skills needed and deliver this assistance in a blended approach. The focus is to use the two-year work effort on common core and essential standards, including using the toolkits (NC FALCON) to train teachers and administrators. Formative and Summative Assessments are critical. There is a need to keep changing if it is not working and data will be the driving force for decision-making. Team teach, talk, and make changes. This will be a mindset shift and it must be systemic. Identify distinguished leaders, master principals to participate in regional (4) learning sessions. Staff is now focused on ramping up to hire people to get the work done over the next four years and when four years are gone the contracts for the work are over.

Performance Navigator Update – Mike Martin updated the members. Two things are the primary focus for 2010-2011, modifying what we measure and modifying the targets. The key will be measuring the Race to the Top targets. Some of these targets include the four-year cohort graduation rate, NAEP scores, percent of students scoring on AP exams, participation rates in AP courses, percent of graduates going on to post secondary education, ACT measure, and percent of freshman in one remedial course. Some of the new targets include the following: percent of students excelling on math and reading EOG/EOC (raise targets), low-performing schools, educator evaluation data. Raise the Grade 4 Math target 2.0 points up to 85 for 2010-2011. Grade 4 Reading is increased from 71.6 percent to 74.6 percent for 2010-2011. All the key targets are being increased for this school year. How do we measure low performing schools success?  The plan is to move from using the number of low performing schools to using the number of schools with performance composites below 60. It is important to measure of all of our efforts. Subsequently, the teacher evaluation data will be used to measure the validity and use of the tool with respect to student test scores and growth. The plan is to determine the degree to which the tool is being used effectively in evaluating teachers. Does the teacher evaluation instrument data link with student growth. One board member reminded staff not to leave teachers out who don’t administer EOCs or EOGs in their teaching. These teachers have no student test score data to use in validating their evaluation.

Information Agenda

Globally Competitive Students

• GCS 8 Diagnostic Assessment Review for the 2009-2010 Reading and Math Pilots The State Board will receive information on the 13 schools involved in the Math pilots. The Math assessments used were Assessing Math concepts with Math Perspectives (K-1). The pilot schools were trained in the late Fall 2009 and teachers began benchmarking students with the mid-year assessments. End-of Year assessments were given in May. UNC Chapel Hill evaluated the reading pilot schools and a doctoral candidate evaluated the Math pilot schools. The reports are included in the Executive Summary, which is provided in the link at the beginning of this preview.

Board Meeting: Carolyn Guthrie presented on the pilots (2^nd year) on how this program is critical to dropout prevention.  Reading (K,1, and 4) train the trainer to get pilots started. The pilots are centered around technology and how it helps to do these assessments. Formative assessments (used ongoing) are they better with technology?  Overall, the formative assessments got better throughout the school year. Devices prompt you to take action. Math teachers used the data to design math instruction like they do for reading. The data helped them do small centers and math groups. The children were not where they needed to be in the instructional program. It was apparent from using the diagnostic assessments that they need more interventions and diagnosis. Immediate results with technology are important to assist the teacher in understanding where the student is in understanding Math, but it is also important for the teacher to know what to do next. Teacher Academy is helping with this issue. At this time the diagnostic devices are being used with struggling students and they have not had time to work with any of the other students. Assessments are very objective and factual and it guides instruction. Concerns were raised about the time needed to do instruction for struggling children, by themselves in the classroom (no assistants). Time management is an issue. The technology is an issue when it didn’t work either the hardware or the software. Teachers are technology illiterate and they need help troubleshoot technical problems. They are asking for continued support from consultants. The Principal is also critical for the success of this program in providing support to teachers in scheduling and understanding the assessments. A question was raised regarding the fiscal note for expanding the program to all elementary schools across the state. The diagnostic tools including, training, technology-hardware, and software, is $25 million for K-3 statewide.   

• GCS 9 American Diploma Project (SDP) Algebra II Results for Spring 2010 and Consortium Participation Discussion for 2011 The State Board is requested to provide guidance on the continued involvement of North Carolina in this initiative. Nine of the Consortium states participated in the Algebra II exam, including North Carolina. The test was administered to more than 40,000 students, nationally. A summary of NC’s Spring 2010 participation and 2011 plans will be reviewed. NC’s average scaled score in 2009 was 1,055 and in 2010, 1,058. This score indicates students are still in need of preparation of Algebra II. The overall Consortium score in 2009 was 1,032 and in 2010 1,024. NC had only 14-16 percent of students prepared and 4-5 percent well prepared, while the remaining 81-82 percent are still in need of preparation.

Board Meeting: Dr. Fabrizio said we can’t compare NC data except with Arkansas and Hawaii. NC had the highest mean score and the highest percentages of students prepared in the Consortium. This was the third year for NC and the question is should we continue, with such a weak comparison. Dr. Harrison said NC should continue for another year and expend the $100,000 to participate.

State Board of Career and Technical Education

• GCS 10 Project Management Credential-New NC Career and Technical Education (CTE) and Southern Regional Education Board (SREB) Initiative The State Board is requested to consider development of this credential in 2010-2011, pilot test 2011-2012, field test 2012-2013, Standard Course of Study 2012-2013, CTE Technical Attainment 2013-2014. North Carolina is a member of a 12-state Consortium in which each state will develop and exchange a series of four courses in an emerging career-focused field. The NC Series is Project Management (180 countries-Western Carolina and NC State and Community Colleges within specific courses). This will be offered through specific courses in NC. Students can earn the certified Associates Degree in Project Management and Microsoft Project software certificate. This will help the students in their post secondary education and careers.

Board Meeting: Rebecca Payne presented the various programs being developed by some of the other states. Develop a product, cost benefit plan, prototype and work within the course. Work with the schools and train them in project management.

21^st Century Professionals

• TCP 3 2010 Teacher Working Conditions Survey The TWC was conducted in March/April 2010. Further information about the findings from the survey was presented

Board Meeting: Carolyn McKinney attended each of the regional school board training sessions where she learned many local board members do not know about the Teacher Working Conditions Website or http://ncteachingconditions..org

Eric Hirsch reported working conditions do have an impact on student achievement. There is a clear correlation between working conditions and student achievement. Two findings (5^th version) from the TWC show teacher leadership is important as well as facility resources. Managing student conduct and community support confirm this link and this is seen even in the highest performing schools. In the lowest performing schools only half agree that parents helping at the school impacts student success. Managing student conduct correlates very well with student success. Leadership support also correlates with student success in the best schools. There are specific questions where there are major differences in the answers to questions between the struggling and successful schools. In the latest review of the TWC it was learned that managing student conduct was the most important issue and significant issue in judging student achievement in the school. Working conditions showed higher achievement in the high schools than middle and elementary schools. Students are achieving at higher levels where student conduct is good and teachers feel safe, and safe school policies are in place. Check out the website for more information.

Consent Agenda

Globally Competitive Students

• GCS 11 Title III AMAO Status Report for 2009-2010 The State Board APPROVED by consent a Summary Report of the LEAs receiving Title III funds to meet as series of AMAO (Annual Measurable Objectives) targets. The three objectives include: 1) percent of students who demonstrate progress in at least one of the subtests on the required state identified English Language proficiency test, 2) annual increase in the percentage of students identified as limited English proficient who attain proficiency on required state tests, 3) percent of student in the LEP subgroup meeting its AYP targets. LEAs that do not meet AMAO targets two years in a row will be required to develop a detailed improvement plan as required by NCLB. Twelve districts including most, if not all, of the largest urban districts have missed the AMAOs four consecutive years or more. Wake, Charlotte, Guilford, Forsyth, Durham, Buncombe, and Cumberland are part of the list of the LEAs who have missed targets four consecutive years. If the Title III subgrantee (LEAs) fail to meet AMAO targets four consecutive years, the State Board of Education shall require all Title III groups to modify the curriculum, program, or method of instruction. The complete list of LEAs who missed two, three and four consecutive years can be found in the Executive Summary link at the beginning of this preview.

Board Meeting: No Discussion.

Business/Finance and Advocacy

• TCS 6 LEA-Wide Calendar Waiver Requests The State Board of Education APPROVED calendar waivers for 21 LEAs listed in the Executive Summary by consent. The majority of the Districts are from the western part of the state. The LEAs must meet the criteria of being closed two or more hours, eight or more days of school, in four of the last ten years. The law was modified slightly last year to assist several LEAs who had partial days due to snow. All of these LEAs are recommended for approval by consent.

Board Meeting: No Discussion.

Board Meeting and Committee Chair Reports

Action and Discussion Agenda

Superintendent’s Report

• Dr. June Atkinson highlighted the graduation achievement award luncheon. Award presented to DPI from First Century Skills, to recognize work on NC FALCON.

Chairman’s Remarks

• Dr. Bill Harrison, Chairman read the Resolution on Hurst versus Hammocks Beach Corporation was read by the Chairman. In 1950, Dr. Sharpe deeded 810 acres of coastal property in Onslow County NC, known as “The Hammocks” to the nonprofit Hammocks Beach Corporation in trust for recreational and educational purposes for the use and benefit of the members of the NC Teachers Association. A jury has found that it is impossible to use the trust property and land for the purposes specified and is removing Hammocks Beach Corporation as trustee and appointing the NC State Board of Education as substitute trustee. The SBE voted to approve the Resolution and thereby accepting trusteeship of the property.
• On another matter a letter has been sent regarding a GED plus recommendation from Hilda Pinnix Ragland whereby16-18 year-olds must take career skill course and SBE should endorse.

Adjourn

Preview of November State Board of Education Meeting

Wednesday & Thursday, November 3, 4, 2010

The State Board of Education will meet on Wednesday, November 3, 2010 in committees.  They will begin with the Globally Competitive Students Committee, 21^st Century Professionals Committee, and finish with the Business/Finance and Advocacy Committee. On Thursday, they will meet to vote. Access to the SBE Executive Summaries and related documents are on the SBE website at the following link: http://www.ncpublicschools.org/stateboard/meetings/2010/11

Wednesday, November 3, 2010

Globally Competitive Students Committee (10:00 AM)

Action and Discussion Agenda

Action

• GCS 1 Future-Ready OCS: Proposed Change to Mathematics Graduation Requirement The State Board is asked to approve the recommendation that students participating in the FR-OCS be allowed to substitute the mathematics course, Applied Mathematics II or the career/technical education course, Personal Finance (7066) for OCS Financial Management. Students in this program must complete three mathematics courses. They are required to complete: OCS Introduction to Mathematics, OCS Algebra I, and OCS Financial Management. DPI recommends students participating in this course of study, be allowed to substitute the mathematics course, Applied Mathematics II or the Career and Technical Education Course, Personal Finance, for OCS Financial Management. The Personal Finance Course aligns very closely with the OCS Course and both were developed using Blooms Taxonomy. The applied Mathematics II course, while not designed for students with disabilities, is helpful in teaching students, practical application. This will assist students in completing their graduation requirements and will also make it easier for school systems to comply with federal requirements of  having a highly qualified teacher in every core content class.
• GCS 2 Textbook Evaluation Policies The State Board is requested to approve staff recommendations for changes to amend Textbook Policies GCS-H-000, GCS-H-002 and GCS-H-007. The revisions are primarily to streamline the language. The proposed policy changes are as follows; GCS-H-00 will be changed to require the schedule for the evaluation process to be included in the “Invitation to Submit Textbooks” document, GCS-H-002 will require the procedures for the regional textbook evaluation to be included in the “Invitation to Submit Textbooks” document, and GCS-H-007 is revised as the “Textbook and Evaluation Adoption” policy. A copy of this policy will be available online in the Executive Summary link at the beginning of this preview.

Action on First Reading

• GCS 3 2010-2011 Invitation to Submit Textbooks for English Language Arts for Evaluation and Adoption in North Carolina The State Board is requested to approve the invitation for evaluation and adoption of textbooks. The invitation is for English/Language Arts and includes rules and regulations based on General Statutes, Administrative Code, and State Board Policy that govern the adoption process.

Discussion

• GCS 4 Credit Recovery The State Board is requested to review the proposed amended policy and provide feedback. Credit recovery has become increasingly difficult due to the expansion of courses and delivery methods. Credit recovery may be for full course recovery or partial recovery courses. Policy changes will be implemented for 2011-2012 school year. The policy has seven new defining and clarifying sections; 1) definition of the term “credit recovery,” refers to a block of instruction less than the entire Standard Course of Study which means  credit recovery delivers a subset of the actual course to address student deficiencies, 2) define “repeating a course for credit” will be used to refer to high school course repeated via any delivery method when the Standard Course of study for the course is being taught for a second time, 3) define “repeating a course of credit” will allow students to receive a grade and take the associated EOC. Students who have already made a Level II of IV may use the score as 25 percent of the final grade or retake the test. If the student retakes the test then the higher of the two scores will be used in calculating the final grade. 4) LEAs shall give a pass/fail for each credit recovery course and this will not impact a student’s GPA, 5) students who wish to modify their GPA may repeat the course for credit and not seek a credit recovery solution, 6) local boards may not limit the number of credit recovery course taken by a student prior to graduation, 7) the EOC test associated with credit recovery shall be administered upon completion of the credit recovery course and no later than 30 calendar days. There is also a “Credit Recovery” briefing paper and a “Frequently Asked Questions” document. The documents are included in the Executive Summary link at the beginning of the preview.
• GCS 5 Blue Ribbon Task Force Report on Studying Impacts of Raising Compulsory Attendance Age State Board members are asked to review the report required by the 2010 Session Law. The task force studied the impact of raising the compulsory attendance age to 17 or 18. Four questions were posed for a response. The report shall be submitted by November 15^th to Joint Legislative Commission on Dropout Prevention and Graduation as well as the Joint Legislative Education Oversight Committee. The complete report can be accessed by following the link to the Executive Summary listed above. Key Recommendations: 1) increasing the attendance age can only be successful if supplemental programs are in place targeting at-risk students, 2) a larger more comprehensive study should be conducted within the context of law enforcement and juvenile justice, 3) eight pilot programs should be  conducted, one in each region of the state giving the LEAs the flexibility to develop the pilot based on the unique needs of their student body and, 4) regardless of the whether the age is raised, consistent ongoing teacher training supplemental programs relevant to students and curriculum material are critical. The conclusion in the report states North Carolina needs to improve on successes of the past in providing students with skills and habits to meet and exceed graduation requirements. The system needs to improve by examining current practices and policies, hiring and retaining great teachers and leaders along with working with businesses and other agencies. A copy of the report is available in GCS5 at the link, noted at the beginning of the preview.
• GCS 6 Senate Bill 66 Arts Education Task Force Recommendations The State Board is requested to review the report from the task force and provide feedback prior to submission of final report to the legislature. A task force was appointed this year to address several issues as a result of SB66. The issues to be considered are as follows; 1) policies to implement arts education in public schools including an art requirement in grades k-5, 2) availability of all four arts disciplines in grades 6-8, with students required to take one arts course in each school year, and 3) the availability of electives in the arts at the high school level. In addition the task force shall look at a high school graduation requirement in the arts and further development of the A+ Schools Program.  Recommendations shall be submitted to JLEOC by December 1, 2010. The report will be sent to board members prior to the board meeting. A copy of the report is not included in the Executive Summary.
• GCS 7 K-12 Social Studies Essential Standards The State Board is requested to discuss Version 2 of the social studies standards. The Standards are available for feedback though November 10^th. They can be found at http://www.publicschools.org/acre/standards/phase2. Policy implications will be addressed with the SBE in November. The plan is to either continue discussion at the December board meeting or approve the standards based on the direction of the State Board.

21^st Century Professionals Committee (1:00 PM)

Action and Discussion Agenda

Action

• TCP 1 Revision of Board Policy to Reflect Changes in the Beginning Teacher Support Program The State Board is requested to approve changes to the Board policy regarding the Beginning Teacher Support Program. Each LEA develops a program/plan for beginning teachers, which is approved by the local board, reviewed, and monitored. There are a series of changes to Policy TCP-A-004, including, but not limited to, the five-year formal review and an annual review process as recommended by the mentor task force. Other changes in the policy address changing the word Individual Growth Plan to the Professional Development Plan. Other changes include working conditions for beginning teachers, local board plan approval, annual peer review and information on the five–year formal reporting requirements. A copy of the policy is available at the Executive Summary link at the beginning of this preview.

Discussion

• TCP 2 Recommendations from the Advisory Board on Requests for Exception from Teacher Licensing Requirements The State Board is requested to approve the actions related to each request. The panel recommendations are presented to the SBE in closed session.

 

Leadership For Innovation Committee Meeting (1:30 PM)

Action and Discussion Agenda

Action

• LFI 1 Final Decision in Contested Case
  • North Carolina Marine Sciences High School, Inc. (Cape Lookout) 10 EDC 1104 The State Board shall issue a final agency decision in the contested case. The State Board decided to non-renew the charter for Cape Lookout. The administrative law judge recommended renewing the charter for Cape Lookout through June 30, 2012. The respondent has filed exceptions. This is a closed session item.

New Business

• Technical Readiness for Online Assessment
• NCVPS/LEO Director’s Report

 

Business/Finance and Advocacy Committee Meeting (2:10 PM)

Action and Discussion Agenda

Action

• TCS 1 2011-2013 Biennial Budget Expansion Request The State Board is requested to discuss future budget needs and specific budget requests to build the SBE 2011-2013 Biennial Budget request. Expansion budget requests for 2011-2013 are due to OSBM on November 12, 2010. There is a list of nine expansion items: 1) $304,774,366-LEA Adjustment/Discretionary Reduction, 2) $19,722,637-Ready Set Go-Fund all 8^th graders to take EXPLORE assessment, 10^th graders to take PLAN, and 11^th graders to take ACT. Also funding for “Boot Camp,” and alternate assessments, 3) $477,267-Restore Governor’s School funding, 4) $247,650-Web Services-fund the public schools website, 5) $173,421 Internal Audit-add two internal auditors, 6) $995,300 Learn and Earn High Schools, 7) $41,156-Technology Services Time Tracking, 8) $589,210 Update Wiring in education building, 9) $20,000,000-Healthy Student’s Initiative by supporting school lunch programs. The expansion items total $347,021,007. In calculating the 5, 10 and 15 percent cuts to public schools the amounts were included in the documents. The amount for 5 percent is $418,512,811, 10 percent is $837,025,621 and 15 percent is $1,255,538,432 and these figures do not include the $304 million of the discretionary cut. The cuts to DPI for the percentages are as follows: $2,164,334, $4,328,668, and $6,493,002. A complete copy of these documents is in the Executive Summary link.
• TCS 2 Revisions to Benefits and Employment Policy Manual 2010-11 for Public School Employees The State Board is recommended to approve 17 revisions to policy TCP-D-003. Changes are being made to the following sections: 1.1.9– Define “bona fide volunteer” 1.1.12 Clarify definition of immediate family for FMLA, 3.1.3 Coordinate FMLA changes for vacation leave, 4.1.2 Clarify when FMLA emergency leave applies for sick leave, 4.1.8 +10 Leave reinstatement change (63 months), 4.2.1 Extended Sick Leave-track license name (media coordinator), 4.3.2 Clarify exhaust available leave under voluntary shared leave, 4.3.4 Non-family donation of sick leave under voluntary shared leave, 4.3.7 Voluntary Shared Leave-Unused Leave returned to donors,  5.1.1 Personal Leave-Track license name (media coordinator), 5.1.2 Track changes in statute under personal leave, 8.1.2-28 Track FMLA Regulations & NDAA, 14.1.2 -5 Track Changes in Statute for Probationary Teachers, 14.2.3-11 Add Media Specialist & use Career Status, 15.1.1 Track Changes to Statute School Calendar, 16.1 Legislation eliminated these provisions for retired teacher employment, 16.2.1-5 Track legislation & update data & numbering for employment of retirees. A copy of these changes is available in the Executive Summary link in the opening paragraph under Section TCS 2.

Action on First Reading

• TCS 3 Schools Selected from Applications for Reading Diagnostic Initiative The State Board is requested to approve the list of schools that volunteered and were chosen to participate in the Reading Diagnostic Program. There are 183 schools participating in Governor Perdues’ Reading Diagnostic Program. There were 27 pilot schools last year and 156 schools were added at the beginning of this year (73 Reading First Schools and 83 invited schools). Invitations were sent to superintendents and others to become part of the initiative. DPI received 368 applications and there is space for 200 more schools to join the program. The new schools will train in November /December and begin the first benchmark assessments in mid-January. A list of the schools is included in the Executive Summary with the link provided in the opening paragraph, Section TCS 3.

Discussion

• TCS 4 Reappointment or Replacement of Compliance Commission Members, Appointment of a New Chairperson, and Amendments to Policy TCS-B-00 The State Board is requested to discuss the recommendations for reappointments and for new members of the Compliance Commission as well as the amendments to policy TCS-B-00. David Jenkins, Martin County, reappointment, Cindy Goodman, Scotland County for reappointment, Heidi Von Dohlen, Buncombe County for reappointment, Wanda Bunch Business Representative for reappointment, replace Max Walser with Kelly Lynn Blain, Person County teacher, and Stewart Hobbs Jr. Stokes Superintendent as Chairman. Policy changes include; 1) Removing authority for Commission to deny appeals of schools that want a field testing exemption for a specific school year, 2) Commission shall meet annually and notification of meetings for State Board is no longer required, 3) Eliminate the absence rule which notes three consecutive absences shall constitute resignation of commission member.
• TCS 5 DHHS Transition Plan for Organizational Structure and Student Instructional Services at the Residential Schools The State Board is asked to review the plans and provide recommendations for the final plan to be approved in December. Effective June 30, 2011, DPI will have responsibility for the total services, staff, programming and facilities at the three NC residential schools. The plan envisions four staff members to serve as the central office for the three schools and to oversee all activities at the schools. The plan must be submitted to several legislative committee of the General Assembly by December 1, 2010. The plan addresses a series of requirements set in Session Law 2010-31. The executive summary contains organizational charts and other documents detailing the plan to be considered by the State Board. This item will be on Action in December.

Update on Contracts

Contracts over $25,000 – 25 contracts

Contracts under $25,000 – 15 contracts

Thursday, November 4, 2010

State Board of Education Meeting, (9:30 AM) Dr. William Harrison, Chairman

Call to Order

Pledge of Allegiance: Mr. Reginald Kenan

Approval of Minutes

 

Special Recognition-Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching

• 2009 Awardee in 7-12 Science
  • Ms. Judith Jones, Chapel Hill/Carboro Schools
• 2009 Awardee in 7-12 Mathematics
  • Ms. Maria Hernandez, Math, NC School of Science in Mathematics
• 2010 Finalists in K-6 Mathematics
  • Ms. Amanda Northrup, Haywood County Schools
  • Ms. Rebecca Pearce, Guilford County Schools
  • Ms. Penelope Shockley, Chapel Hill/Carboro
• 2010 Finalists in K-6 Science
  • Ms. Zebetta King, Wake County Schools
  • Ms. Amanda McLean, Caldwell County Schools

 

Key Initiatives Reports and Discussion

Ø  Career College Ready Set Go/Race to the Top Update – Mr. Adam Levinson

Performance Navigator Update- Mr. Adam Levinson

Information Agenda

Globally Competitive Students

• GCS 8 Diagnostic Assessment Review for the 2009-2010 Reading and Math Pilots The State Board will receive information on the 13 schools involved in the Math pilots. The Math assessments used were Assessing Math concepts with Math Perspectives. The pilot schools were trained in the late Fall 2009 and teachers began benchmarking students with the mid-year assessments. End-of Year assessments were given in May. UNC Chapel Hill evaluated the reading pilot schools and a doctoral candidate evaluated the Math pilot schools. The reports are included in the Executive Summary, which is provided in the link at the beginning of this preview.
• GCS 9 American Diploma Project (SDP) Algebra II Results for Spring 2010 and Consortium Participation Discussion for 2011 The State Board is requested to provide guidance on the continued involvement of North Carolina in this initiative. Nine of the Consortium states participated in the Algebra II exam, including North Carolina. The test was administered to more than 40,000 students, nationally. A summary of NC’s Spring 2010 participation and 2011 plans will be reviewed. NC’s average scaled score in 2009 was 1,055 and in 2010, 1,058. This score indicates students are still in need of preparation of Algebra II. The overall Consortium score in 2009 was 1,032 and in 2010 1,024. NC had only 14-16 percent of students prepared and 4-5 percent well prepared, while the remaining 81-82 percent are still in need of preparation.

State Board of Career and Technical Education

• GCS 10 Project Management Credential-New NC Career and Technical Education (CTE) and Southern Regional Education Board (SREB) Initiative The State Board is requested to consider development of this credential in 2010-2011, pilot test 2011-2012, field test 2012-2013, Standard Course of Study 2012-2013, CTE Technical Attainment 2013-2014. North Carolina is a member of a 12-state Consortium in which each state will develop and exchange a series of four courses in an emerging career-focused field. The NC Series is Project Management. Students can earn the certified Associates Degree in Project Management and Microsoft Project software certificate. This will help the students in their post secondary education and careers.

21^st Century Professionals

• TCP 3 2010 Teacher Working Conditions Survey The TWC was conducted in March/April 2010. Further information about the findings from the survey will be presented to the State Board for continued discussion.

Consent Agenda

Globally Competitive Students

• GCS 11 Title III AMAO Status Report for 2009-2010 The State Board is requested to approve by consent a Summary Report of the LEAs receiving Title III funds to meet as series of AMAO (Annual Measurable Objectives) targets. The three objectives include: 1) percent of students who demonstrate progress in at least one of the subtests on the required state identified English Language proficiency test, 2) annual increase in the percentage of students identified as limited English proficient who attain proficiency on required state tests, 3) percent of student in the LEP subgroup meeting its AYP targets. LEAs that do not meet AMAO targets two years in a row will be required to develop a detailed improvement plan as required by NCLB. Twelve districts including most, if not all, of the largest urban districts have missed the AMAOs four consecutive years or more. Wake, Charlotte, Guilford, Forsyth, Durham, Buncombe, and Cumberland are part of the list of the LEAs who have missed targets four consecutive years. If the Title III subgrantee (LEAs) fail to meet AMAO targets four consecutive years, the State Board of Education shall require all Title III groups to modify the curriculum, program, or method of instruction. The complete list of LEAs who missed two, three and four consecutive years can be found in the Executive Summary link at the beginning of this preview.

Business/Finance and Advocacy

• TCS 6 LEA-Wide Calendar Waiver Requests The State Board of Education is requested to approve calendar waivers for 21 LEAs listed in the Executive Summary by consent. The majority of the Districts are from the western part of the state. The LEAs must meet the criteria of being closed two or more hours, eight or more days of school, in four of the last ten years. The law was modified slightly last year to assist several LEAs who had partial days due to snow. All of these LEAs are recommended for approval by consent.

Board Meeting and Committee Chair Reports

Action and Discussion Agenda

Superintendent’s Report

• Dr. June Atkinson

 

Chairman’s Remarks

• Dr. Bill Harrison, Chairman
  • Legislative Update

New Business

Old Business

 

Adjourn

This’ll just take a second….

This is a bit off the beaten path, but I am hoping you won’t mind my bringing a few noteworthy points to your attention before you delve into the 4 new posts below…

Firstly, if you have not yet noticed, the url of this site is slightly different.

Instead of the rather lengthy  http://www.nceducation.wordpress.com….

Our New Web Address is:

http://www.nceducationpolicy.com

******So, make sure you BOOK MARK our new URL now******

But no need worry…. The old address will still work just fine.  No one’s

“Moved Your Cheese...”

More importantly, as we approach the new – and what will certainly be an extremely long – Long Legislative Session, our goal – the purpose of http://www.nceducationpolicy.com – has not changed .  We hope to provide a timely, accurate, no frills/no spin connection to whats going on in the world of North Carolina Education Policy.

But there’s a critical component missing. Input, feedback, and direction from our readers.  Any alternative would incomplete, one-sided, and stagnant; and well, that’s not how we roll.

We’re gonna keep blogging.  The previews and the summaries will keep coming.  But before we really get rolling again…

We’d love to hear your thoughts.

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Are there specific topics you would like to see highlighted?

Please, take a few minutes and give us a piece of your mind

We look forward to your comments and suggestions.

Thank you and KEEP READING.

Remember to Vote November 2nd,

Joel Maynard

Preview of October State Board of Education Meeting

Wednesday & Thursday, October 6, 7, 2010

The State Board of Education will meet on Wednesday, October 6, 2010 in committees.  They will begin with the Globally Competitive Students Committee, 21^st Century Professionals Committee, and finish with the Business/Finance and Advocacy Committee. On Thursday, they will meet to vote. Access to the SBE Executive Summaries and related documents are on the SBE website at the following link: http://www.ncpublicschools.org/stateboard/meetings/2010/10

Wednesday, October 6, 2010

Globally Competitive Students Committee (10:00 AM)

Action and Discussion Agenda

Action

• GCS 1 Approval Five Indicators of North Carolina’s Proposed New Accountability Model The State Board is requested to approve the major components of the new accountability model. The ACRE Assessment and Accountability Committee drafted a proposal for a new accountability model to address both K-8 and high school accountability. Components of the proposed model include student performance, value-added performance for teachers, schools and districts, long-term Longitudinal) growth, graduation rate, Future Ready Core and postsecondary readiness. The information, including the five indicators was not included in the documents.

Action on First Reading

• GCS 2 Compliance Commission Recommendations for Field Testing and Special Studies Appeals for the 2010-2011 School Year The SBE is asked to approve the Compliance Commission’s recommendations regarding appeals to field testing for 2010-2011. Three schools requested appeals for field testing; Scotland County-Scotland County High School of Visual and Performing Arts, Wake County-Garner High School, Weldon City Schools-Weldon STEM High School. All three of these schools are involved in the Lexile Linking Test. The Compliance Commission has recommended denying all three appeals listed above. Staff recommends the SBE supporting Compliance Commission denials.
• GCS 3 Future-Ready Occupational Course of Study: Course Title Changes and Proposed Extended Temporary Waiver of Paid Employment Graduation Requirement The State Board is requested to extend the waiver for the paid employment graduation requirement that was granted last year. Students in the Future-Ready Courses for OCS are required to complete 300 hours of supervised school-based vocational training, 240 hours of community-based vocational training, and 360 hours of competitive paid employment in an integrated employment setting. The students must be compensated for their employment above the Federal minimum hourly wage. The current economic conditions have made it difficult, if not impossible, for students to complete their employment requirements. If the employment requirement stays in place many students with disabilities will be denied a diploma. If granted, the waiver will allow students graduating in 2010-2011 and 2011-2012 to substitute 360 hours of additional unpaid vocational training, unpaid internships, paid employment and community rehabilitation and volunteer and/or community service hours for the 360 hours of paid employment ( required). The recommendations with the waiver granted will now require a total of 900 hours of vocational training and/or employment to receive a NC diploma. LEAs will be required to maintain documentation of their efforts to assist students to secure paid employment through referrals to various organizations in the state. Evidence of the interagency collaboration and referrals shall be documented on the student’s transition component of their IEP.

Discussion

• GCS 4 Future-Ready OCS: Proposed Change to Mathematics Graduation Requirement The State Board will discuss substitution of mathematics courses for Future-Ready OCS students. Students in this program must complete three mathematics courses. They are required to complete: OCS Introduction to Mathematics, OCS Algebra I, and OCS Financial Management. DPI recommends students participating in this course of study be allowed to substitute the mathematics course, Applied Mathematics II or the Career and Technical Education Course, Personal Finance, for OCS Financial Management. The Personal Finance Course aligns very closely with the OCS Course and both were developed using Blooms Taxonomy. The applied Mathematics II course, while not designed for students with disabilities, is helpful in teaching students practical application. This will assist students in completing their graduation requirements and will also make it easier for school systems to comply with federal requirements of having a highly qualified teacher in every core content class. This will be an Action item on November SBE agenda.
• GCS 5 Textbook Evaluation Policies The State Board will review staff recommendations for changes to Textbook Policies GCS-H-000, GCS-H-002 and GCS-H-007. The revisions are primarily to streamline the language. The SBE will review the proposed policy changes. GCS-H-00 will be changed to require the schedule for the evaluation process to be included in the “Invitation to Submit Textbooks” document. GCS-H-002 will require the procedures for the regional textbook evaluation to be included in the “Invitation to Submit Textbooks” document. GCS-H-007 is revised as the “Textbook and Evaluation Adoption” policy. A copy of this policy will be available online with the posting listed at the beginning of this preview.

Healthy Responsible Students (11:50 AM)

Action and Discussion Agenda

• HRS 1 Schools At Risk of Being Labeled Persistently Dangerous The State Board is requested to approve staff’s recommendation related to the three schools identified by policy as persistently dangerous. The schools are Wake County-Longview School, Charlotte-Mecklenburg-Metro School, and Union County-South Providence School. Each of these schools has reported 0.5 or more violent criminal offenses per 100 students during each of the two most recent school years. DPI is recommending the three schools be placed on probationary status and monitored by the Federal Program Monitoring Division for the 2010-2011 school year.

21^st Century Professionals Committee (1:15 PM)

Action and Discussion Agenda

Discussion

• TCP 1 Revision of Board Policy to Reflect Changes in the Beginning Teacher Support Program The State Board is requested to discuss changes to the Board policy regarding beginning teacher support. Each LEA develops a program/plan for beginning teachers, which is approved, reviewed, and monitored. There are a series of changes to Policy TCP-A-004, including, but not limited to, the five-year formal review and an annual review process as recommended by the mentor task force. Other changes in the policy address the Professional Development Plan, working conditions for beginning teachers, local board plan approval, annual peer review and information on the five–year formal reporting requirements. A copy of the policy is available at the link listed in the first paragraph of this document.

Business/Finance and Advocacy Committee Meeting (1:50 PM)

Action and Discussion Agenda

Action on First Reading

• TCS 1 Approval of Grants The State board is requested to approve the following grants:
  • Mathematics and Science Partnership (MSP) Grant- Five new projects totaling $1.45 million are requested for approval. These projects are associated with the following LEAs: Catawba Schools, Durham Schools, McDowell Schools (and 8 other counties), Rowan-Salisbury Schools, and Scotland Schools. Ten other school systems presented proposals for funding, but were not funded.
  • Education Jobs Fund (EduJobs) Program NC will likely receive $298,458,355 to retain existing employees, to recall or rehire employees, and to hire new employees to provide education and education related services. Any school based personnel may be charged to the grant. The Governor may hold 2 percent of the funds. The balance of $292,489,188 will be distributed to LEAs and will be available until September 30, 2012, though funds are to be used for 2010-2011 school year. The estimate allocation for each LEA can be found at: http://www.ncpublicschools.org/docs/fbs/arra/edujobs/educjobsallocation.xls
  • Race to the Top (RttT) Program Funds NC will receive an allocation of just over $399 million. The funds will be used to continue the implementation of the Governor’s Career and College, Ready, Set, Go! program. This includes: 1) recruiting and retaining quality teachers and administrators, 2) a comprehensive turnaround plan for low-performing schools, and 3) 21^st Century technology for assessing students’ needs.
    • TCS 2 Excused Absences for Religious Observances The State Board is asked to make changes and modifications to the Schools Attendance and Student Accounting Manual to handle excused absences for religious reasons. Session law requires principals to authorize a minimum of two excused absences each academic year for religious observances required by a student’s faith or student’s parent’s faith. DPI is modifying the School Attendance and Student Accounting Manual and though the SBE may require a student’s parents to provide the principal written notice of the request for an excused absence prior to the religious observance, DPI is recommending the SBE not require prior notice by a parent.

Discussion

• TCS 3 2011-2013 Biennial Budget Expansion Request The State Board is requested to discuss future budget needs and specific budget requests to build the SBE 2011-2013 Biennial Budget Request. Expansion budget request for 2011-2013 are due to OSBM on November 12, 2010. No information was included in the Board packet for this item.
• TCS 4 Revisions to Benefits and employment Policy Manual 2010-11 for Public School Employees The State Board will discuss revisions to policy TCP-D-003. Changes are being made to the following sections: 1.1.9– Define “bona fide volunteer” 1.1.12 Clarify definition of immediate family for FMLA, 3.1.3 Coordinate FMLA changes for vacation leave, 4.1.2 Clarify when FMLA exigency leave applies for sick leave, 4.1.8 +10 Leave reinstatement change (63 months), 4.3.2 Clarify exhaust available leave under voluntary shared leave, 4.3.4 Non-family donation of sick leave under voluntary shared leave, 5.1.2 Track changes in statute under personal leave, 8.1.2-28 Track FMLA Regulations & NDAA, 14.1.2 -5 Track Changes in Statute for Probationary Teachers, 14.2.3-11 Add Media Specialist & use Career Status, 15.1.1 Track Changes to Statute School Calendar, 16.1 Legislation eliminated these provisions for retired teacher employment, 16.2.1-5 Track legislation & update data & numbering for employment of retirees. Action on these items will be taken at the November SBE meeting.

Update on Contracts

Contracts over $25,000 – 17 contracts listed.

Contracts under $25,000 – 7 contracts listed.

Thursday, October 7, 2010

State Board of Education Meeting, (9:00 AM) Dr. William Harrison, Chairman

Call to Order

Pledge of Allegiance: Mr. John Tate

Approval of Minutes

Key Initiatives Reports and Discussion

Leadership Academy Initiative Update – Ms. Leslie Winner, Z. Smith Reynolds Foundation.

• NCVPS/LEO Update – Dr. Bryan Setser, Executive Director, NC Virtual Public School.

Information Agenda

Globally Competitive Students

Consent Agenda

• GCS 6 Changes to the 2009-20010 ABCs/AYP Results The State Board is requested to approve changes to the 2009-2010 ABC’s/AYP Report. The proposed changes are for Grey Culbreth Middle in Chapel Hill-Carboro, from not met to met AYP, and Quality Education Academy Charter, from not met to met AYP. The ABC changes include: Community High School in Buncombe from NoRecognition to EXPected growth and Grey Culbreth from EXCellent High to HonorsSchoolofExcellence High, and Quality Education Academy from Unresolved to HonorsSchoolofExcellence High.
• GCS 7 Report to the Joint Legislative Oversight Committee: Implementation of the ABC’s Statewide Consolidated Assistance Program The SBE reports annually by October 15th to the Joint Legislative Education Oversight Committee on the continued implementation of the ABCs plan. The report contains 94 pages of data on ABCs in schools across the state. The report is contained in the State Board documents listed at the beginning of this preview.

Information Agenda

• HRS 2 Care of Students with Diabetes Compliance Report The State Board is required to report all schools in compliance with the laws related to the Care of School Students with Diabetes. Four additional questions were added to the Annual School Health Survey this year. The report provided the following information: 100 percent of the LEAs reported on the survey and of those 91 percent offer generalized diabetes training, 85.5 percent had an IHP (Individual Health Plan) completed by the school nurse for students with diabetes, and 96.5 percent had a least two people intensively trained on diabetes care at each school where students with diabetes were enrolled. Charter Schools had only 49 percent participation with 42 percent offering generalized training to school staff, 64 percent had an IHP completed by a nurse for students with diabetes, and 89 percent of charter schools with one or more students had two persons intensively trained at the school, in diabetes care. Only half of the charter schools reported since the reporting request for them was new this year and they indicated they were unaware of the diabetes legislation and the reporting requirement. The School Health Nurse Consultants in the School Health Unit of the Division of Public Health are available to provide on-going consultation and technical assistance to any school with school health matters, including meeting the requirements of SB 738/911.

Board Meeting and Committee Chair Reports

Action and Discussion Agenda

Superintendent’s Report

• Dr. June Atkinson:

Chairman’s Remarks

• Dr. Bill Harrison, Chairman
  • Race to the Top
  • Legislative Update

New Business

Old Business

Adjourn

EDUCATION CABINET MEETING SUMMARY

THURSDAY, AUGUST 26, 2010

CAREER AND COLLEGE – READY, SET, GO!

Race to the Top Grant-The Governor provided opening remarks on the Race to the Top grant of $400 million for the state. She told cabinet members she wanted to see the North Carolina’s graduation rate increase 10-12 points over the next 3-4 years. The focus will be on leadership, low-performing schools, jobs, and the workforce. Governor Perdue is looking toward having information on all students with the P-20 longitudinal data system. The data system will allow parents to view growth charts for their children and provide transparency in student data through their entire education in NC.

Common Core Standards and Alignment of Assessments-Dr. Rebecca Garland and Angela Quick prepared a one-page handout with an overview of the Common Core State Standards for the Cabinet. The Common Core Standards are English and Math K-12. NC was in the process of preparing new essential standards when the national standards were completed. The Math standards align with work already done in the state, but the English standards are different. They do not focus on literature until high school (50 percent literature), but focus on literacy though science, social studies and other ways. NC retains 15 percent control of the course standards to allow them to add additional requirements. The new standards will be implemented with the 2012-2013 school year. NC is part of 2 consortia working together on assessments for the Common Core Standards. The Smarter Balanced group includes 31 other states and they are focused on developing formative, interim, and summative assessments. However, their greatest focus is on daily assessments, not the summative (only 10 percent of their efforts).  The assessments are moving away from the multiple choice design and heading toward open-ended responses, essays, and constructive responses, while at the same time incorporating technology in the process. Senator Lee, Executive Director of the Education Cabinet suggested a Standing Committee be created to meet on a regular basis to include representatives from the various Cabinet entities to track the work on the Common Core Standards and assessments and collaborate. This will enable higher education and pre-K members of the Cabinet to understand the efforts of K-12 in moving toward the Common Standards and the new assessments.  This will better prepare the members to handle the child/student’s education needs when they are in either pre-K or higher education.

Unique Student Identifier and P-20 Longitudinal Data System Adam Levinson presented information on the student identifier system. NC did not receive the federal grant funding they had applied for to get the system implemented in the pre-K-20. Right now the NCWISE system provides unique student identifiers for K-12. The members of Education Cabinet have been working together with DPI on this process, but the lack of funding is going to be a real issue to overcome. The other major hurdle is with the Independent Colleges and Universities who do not have a central data system to implement the student identifier program. Each of the private colleges and universities have their own system and the costs to complete the P-20 longitudinal data system may be huge. The early childhood groups also pose a challenge. Can you create student identifiers for children when they enter Smart Start, Head Start, Private preschools programs, or health services? Where do you begin and who will maintain the information and how is it linked to K-12?  Anne Bryan (Early Childhood Advisory Council) indicated she is working with the K-12 and meeting with the student identifier work group to determine how they might be able to integrate into the system. The Community Colleges appear to be in the best position to implement the student identifier into their system, but there will still be funding needs. The public university members were not at the meeting, so it is unclear what their status is on implementing the student identifier system.  Funding without the grant is going to be the biggest hurdle in completing this project in North Carolina. Race to the Top may provide some funding support.

Development of Target Outcomes and Benchmarks for Career and College – Ready, Set, Go! Bill Harrison provided a ten-page draft spreadsheet to elaborate on the various steps for the P-20 groups to collaborate in reaching the Career and College-Ready Set Go initiative of Governor Perdue. The steps are clarified including, who is responsible, where is the funding, when will they be completed and the present status of work targets. As an example in the category of Ready: All students will be ready to start school and the Governor has developed an Early Childhood Advocacy Council, which has submitted a grant for funding this year. In addition, smaller class sizes, and diagnostic assessments using the $10 million in state funding are important targets in this part of the plan. A copy of the document is available upon request.

UPDATES AND REPORTS

e-Learning Commission-Lt Governor Dalton reported on the work of the e-Learning Commission. He reviewed his work what it will take to get an enterprise system to connect, all of education (P-20) in NC. He has met with CIOs who have said that in order to coordinate all entities in education in the state it will take a Learning Management System at cost in excess of $20 million and then to maintain the system another $1-2 million annually. There is no timeframe for how long this would take to complete the process. They also discussed the need for a Central Administrative Management System.

Legislative Directives to the Education Cabinet Senator Lee reviewed as series of legislative requirements for Education Cabinet that were part of the 2010 General Assembly Short Session. Reports on various issues including, Career and College Ready Set Go by January 14, as well as STEM school initiatives and the JOBS Commission work, the last two reports being due in November to legislative committees. At this time there have been very few legislative committee meetings scheduled so it’s hard to say if much will happen before the November elections.

Achieving the Dream: Developmental Education Initiatives Dr. Ralls reviewed the work of the Community Colleges in Achieving the Dream. There are seven states working together in establishing and updating the curriculum and assessments. They are focusing on changing their delivery methods. They are reviewing students who leave public schools and go to CC to get their GED.  Basically they are looking at how they educate students and prepare them for careers and college work.

Proposed Federal Regulations of Program Integrity for Title IV Funding (Gainful Employment) Dr. Williams raised a concern with this issue. The Federal government is looking to set clear requirements and rules for licensure. The private schools of higher education are exempt from the State licensure rules and if the federal government succeeds with this mandate it will be a major problem for the independent colleges and universities.

Adjournment

Future Meeting Dates

October 25, 2010 – 1 pm

January 12, 2011 – 9 am

March 24, 2011 – 9 am

May 25, 2011 – 9 am

August 25, 2011 – 9 am

November 15, 2011 – 9 am

Closing Remarks – The Governor

Summary of September State Board of Education Meeting

Wednesday & Thursday, September 1, 2, 2010

The State Board of Education met on Wednesday, September 1, 2010 in committees. They met as a State Board on Thursday, September 2, 2010 to vote on the Action issues.  Access to the SBE Executive Summaries and related documents are on the SBE website at the following link: http://www.ncpublicschools.org/stateboard/meetings/2010/09.

Wednesday, September 1, 2010

Globally Competitive Students Committee

Action and Discussion Agenda

Action on First Reading

• GCS 1 Changes and Clarifications to Policy GCS-A-012: Annual Measurable Achievement Objectives for NCLB Title III APPROVED amendments to policy GCS-A-012. North Carolina has two years of data from ACCESS for ELLS© assessment used for determining Title III Annual Measurable Objectives criteria and targets. DPI has worked with individuals from Appalachia Regional Comprehensive Center and The Wisconsin Center for Education Research. Staff has examined the scoring and ranking with the assistance of these two groups and is requesting State Board approval this month, to allow schools to meet the federal timeline of notifying parents for eligibility for services to LEP students. Students who attain proficiency will exit the LEP program.

Committee Meeting: No further discussion.

Discussion

• GCS 2 Discussion of North Carolina’s Proposed New Accountability Model The SBE discussed the new accountability model. The ACRE Assessment and Accountability Committee drafted a proposal for a new accountability model to address both K-8 and high school accountability. Components of the proposed model include student performance, value-added performance for teachers, schools and districts, long-term longitudinal growth, graduation rate, Future Ready Core, and postsecondary readiness. This item will be on the SBE agenda for Action in October.

Committee Meeting: Angela Quick and Dr. Garland presented a chart on the Diagnostics recommendations for K-12. The pilot RFP was awarded to Wireless Generation 3D (August 31) to provide a reading diagnostic system for K-5. This software provides the best match with the NC Reading curriculum. Teachers in K-2 will be trained to use the device and software.  Then they will be able to assess individual students by having them read something and ask questions. If the student scores proficient they will only be tested three times annually. If they are not proficient they will require interventions, as recommended by the software, and be tested continuously, until they are successful in reaching a certain benchmark on the assessment. The diagnostic software will only be used with students in grades 4 and 5 who are not proficient on the Reading EOGs. Teacher Academy will provide the training for the electronic testing software and devices.  At this time, there is no diagnostic software that can be used for Math, because the curriculum does not match the software diagnostics reviewed so far.   Right now there is only one Math pilot in the State. Unfortunately, the Wireless 3D Math software assessment does not match the NC Math curriculum, so until a better match is found Reading will be area where the use of the new electronic devices will be used for elementary students. The State Board policy will allow other electronic diagnostic assessments to be used for Reading. The Reading pilots will be in approximately 66 identified low-performing elementary schools across the State. Staff is hoping to fund the pilot in average performing schools as well. This will allow a comparison to be made between the low-performing schools and average schools on the effectiveness of the diagnostic assessment. The legislature approved $10 million, this year, in recurring funding to purchase the electronic devices, software, and training to pilot the program. Some schools are already using computer diagnostic programs to assess student needs. LEAs will have the ability to determine the hardware they would like to use to implement the 3D software assessment. A question was raised on the cost to implement this electronic diagnostic Reading program statewide. The answer will be provided by DPI staff. Teachers will be conducting these assessments during the instructional day.

Dr. Garland presented the middle and high school assessment recommendations beginning with Explorer, which tests students in English, Reading, Math, and Science in 8^th grade. Ninth and tenth graders will take “Plan,” which tests the same subjects. Then in 11^th grade the ACT will be administered to students, during the school day. Those students who are not successful at this point will attend Summer Academic Boot Camp and take the “Compass” test in 12^th grade to determine if they are Career or College Ready. The tests planned for use in Grades 8-12 are all part of the ACT suite of tests. It was reported that 76 percent of students who reach the ACT benchmarks are more likely to reach college readiness. Students will continue to take the EOGs and EOCs, but staff is reviewing these to determine if they can reduce the requirements based on adding these new assessments.  Specifically, they are reviewing US History. Staff will likely recommend keeping the 25% of grade based on EOGs and EOC’s test scores in Grades 6 through 12. The metric target for ACT and SAT will be used for school accountability. The ACT test is being recommended because it is more curriculum-based than the SAT. Students will still be allowed to take the SAT as they do now and if they reach a metric number set by the State the school will get credit for their success. Institutions of higher education use the ACT for college entrance so the move to the ACT does not create any known problems. In addition, ACT has a cut score for determining college-readiness and the State Board will likely adopt their score. ACT is also internationally benchmarked (Finland, Singapore). DPI has moved away from the recommendation to use the WORKEYS assessment, for several reasons. WORKEYS may be used by Career Technical students to gain credit for meeting career credentials. Staff discussed incentives for extra credit for schools including; Graduation Project, AP Tests, and IB program.

Leadership for Innovation Committee

Action and Discussion Agenda

New Business

• NCVPS/LEO Director’s Report Dr. Setser provided an update of NCVPS program. Presently, NC is the second largest program serving students and courses online in the country. A press release announcing the formation of the Digital Learning Council was discussed. The Council is being chaired by Governor Jeb Bush and former Governor Bob Wise. Dr. Setser was appointed to serve on this new group. Finally, there continue to be some major issues with the new funding formula for NCVPS, and more work will be done to try and fix the inequities that are occurring with the largest and smallest districts in the formula, prior to the next legislative session.

21^st Century Professionals Committee

Action and Discussion Agenda

Action

• TCP 1 State Evaluation Committee Teacher Education Program Approval Recommendations APPROVED the recommendations for Montreat College and Peace College teacher education programs.
• TCP 2 Rubric for Pre-Service Superintendent Programs APPROVED an updated program approval process with an annual review of evidence that candidates recommended for licensure meet the NC Superintendent Standards. McRel has developed an assessment instrument, which will be used to assess both the individuals and the superintendent preparation programs and is aligned with the new evaluation instrument for superintendents. A copy of the Rubric can be viewed online in the SBE meeting packet through the link at the beginning of this document.
• TCP 3 Proposed Qualifying Score for Dual Licensure Health and Physical Education Praxis II Test APPROVED the requirement for dual licensure in health and physical education. The licensure provision expires on June 30, 2012. The qualifying scale score of 149 on the Praxis Health and Physical Education: Content Knowledge is recommended. This will become effective September 2012.

Action on First Reading

• TCP 4 Approval Adoption of the School Executive: Principal Evaluation Process for Assistant Principals APPROVED the use of the School Executive Principal Evaluation process for assistant principals. The validation process for using the principal evaluation instrument for assistant principals is complete.
• TCP 5 Recommendations from the Advisory Board on Requests for Exceptions from Teacher Licensing Requirements Closed Session recommendations of the panel. A panel reviews the requests for exception from teacher licensing requirements. Those requesting an exception include teachers who have not been able to satisfy licensing requirements and prospective teachers who have not met the Praxis I testing requirements.

Discussion: MOVED TO ACTION ON FIRST READING

• TCP 6 Approval/Adoption of the NC Superintendent Evaluation Process APPROVED the North Carolina Superintendent Evaluation Process for evaluating superintendents by local boards of education. The validation process has been finalized. McRel developed and validated the process. The new evaluation instrument may be implemented statewide with the 2010-2011 school year.

Board Meeting: Dr. Harrison asked the Board member advisor to seek support from local boards to consider using this new instrument.

• TCP 7 Approval/Adoption of the Superintendent Evaluation Instrument for Central Office Staff APPROVED the Superintendent Evaluation Instrument for Central Office staff. The instrument is ready for use by Central Office staff and may be implemented statewide with 2010-2011 school year.

Business/Finance and Advocacy Committee Meeting

Action and Discussion Agenda

Action

• TCS 1 Membership for the State Advisory Council on Indian Education APPROVED the membership recommendations for the State Advisory Council on Indian Education. Angela Lynch is the new member who is replacing Claire Hunter Morrow and new members are recommended for reappointment; Audrey Hunt, Velina Ebert, and Teresa Jones.
  • TCS 2 Requests for Repayment Waivers of the National Board Certification Fee The appeals of 24 teachers who failed to complete the process were considered by the Appeals Panel. APPROVED (Nekita Avent) for a waiver of the $2,500 and all other waiver requests are recommended for denial.

Action on First Reading

• TCS 3 Approval of Grants
  • K-2 Reading Diagnostic Assessment Funds for Current Reading Pilot Schools Expanding to Grades 2 and 3 APPROVED the allocation of the Reading First funds to be transferred to fund schools who missed the deadline for the August State Board meeting and to expand the current Reading Pilot Schools to Grades 2 and 3. The funding totals $422,350. This impacts 27 schools 5,900 students and 170 teachers. The list of the schools can be found on the State Board Executive Summaries link under TCS 3. New Hanover has the most schools with eight on the list followed by three in Brunswick, three in Onslow, and two in Sampson. All the other schools are scattered about the State.

Committee Meeting: Dr. Garland requested the State Board approve four recommendations 1) Approve the Reading First Funding expansion request by DPI to Grades 2 and 3, 2) Approve the request for additional schools to be included in the pilot, 3) Approve a new policy to manage the allotment of funds with additional budget codes required 4) Approve the delegation of authority to the State Board Chairman for designating additional schools as funds are available, and 5) Approve the use of Reading First Funds for training. The Governor has the list of schools to be added to the pilot and they are based on performance and geography and she will work with Dr. Harrison to decide which additional schools will be given an opportunity to be included in the pilot.

• JOBS Commission Schools APPROVED $100,000 of the $200,000 allocation for one Early College High School in Wake and Cumberland effective September 1, 2010.

Committee Meeting: Cumberland is ready to receive the $100,000 to open a new school. Wake may not need the $100,000 remaining, so by next month the actual distribution of the remaining $100,000 will be made with a possible additional allocation to Cumberland and the balance going to Wake.

Discussion

• TCS 4 2011-2013 Biennial Budget Request The State Board discussed future budget needs and specific budget requests to build the SBE Biennial Budget Request, which is set for approval at the November meeting.

Committee Meeting: Philip Price talked about the economy and what the State Board would need to do over the next two months in preparing their budget proposal for 2011-2012. The budget proposal would need to be voted on at the November meeting. At this time revenue collections appear to be on target (though they were lowered in last year’s budget). OSBM (Office of State Budget and Management) has requested DPI continue to hold one percent of their $136 million in funds to give back to the State this year. DPI’s operating budget is only $48 million, but there are funds in the total budget for other programs including “More At Four” and others, which could be used to reach the 1 percent holdback. In addition, the Federal Education Jobs bill, recently passed, will allow DPI to access 2 percent of the $300 million in funding for administration of the legislation. These Federal funds are designated for the 2010-2011 school year, but are available for carry-over through September 2012. Race to The Top funds won’t be finalized until September 16^th. The hope is NC will get the full $400 million, which will come all at once to the State and will be available until 2014. Finance staff is still working on the budget proposal to USED for the various programs to be approved as part of the RTT grant proposal.

In addition, the Discretionary Reduction of $304.8 million, in the public school’s budget for this year, resulted in funds being returned from the LEAs for 3,211 teacher positions and $47.5 million for teacher assistants as well as other items.

Mr. Price also reviewed the nuts and bolts of the upcoming state budget problems for next year. He noted the $545 million needed to shore up the Health Plan in 2011-2012 as well as $600 million in non-recurring cuts in the public school’s budget that will need to be added back into the base budget. Student growth for next school year is projected to reach 20,000 new students. This will require $100 million to be added to the budget to cover these new students. There will be a great deal of pressure to move people up on the salary schedule since everyone has been frozen for two years. That would cost another $300 million. The NCVPS funding formula is a major problem for the low and high end users and a proposal will be coming forward to revise it to ensure a more equitable distribution of the costs. DPI is expected to take over responsibility for the Blind and Deaf schools being managed by DHHS now. DPI has seen cuts of 17 percent while the public schools have had 14 percent cuts and so it is going to take a serious infusion of dollars to begin to restore these cuts and manage the loss of the Federal funding. State Board members will need to begin deciding on a draft for the budget proposal.

Update on Contracts

Contracts over $25,000 – 12 contracts

Contracts under $25,000 – 10 contracts

Thursday, September 2, 2010

State Board of Education Meeting, (9:00 AM) Dr. William Harrison, Chairman

Call to Order

Pledge of Allegiance: Ms. Chris Greene

Approval of Minutes

Key Initiatives Reports and Discussion

• ACRE Update- Ms. Angela Quick advised the Board that History, Health, PE, and Guidance essential standards are still under revision. The NC FALCON project is being implemented at the district level this year, with training for curriculum. This will support LEAs in developing formative assessments. Simulations are also being run on the Accountability Model.
• Performance Navigator Update-Mr. Adam Levinson updated the Board on the release of the Performance Navigator 3. This will allow the SBE to see how students, schools, and districts are performing against the goals set by the SBE. More work will be done at the October Board retreat. There are three pages of targets. The Board set goals for graduation and the navigator showed these were exceed in the area of graduation targets (74.7 percent-5 years), though it was noted 25,000 still did not graduate last year. Staff will be updating the Navigator for RTT requirements and mapping the priorities of the divisions against the Board goals.

Information Agenda

Globally Competitive Students

• GCS 3 Annual Report: State Advisory Council on Indian Education The Council serves as an important link in advising the State Board on issues pertinent to the education of American Indian students. The report contains data from the 2008-2009 academic year end-of-grade tests for American Indian students and compares them to statewide scores. The data continues to show disparities between American Indian students and other students. These disparities have persisted over the past five years and continue to be of great concern to the Council. The adoption of the Common Core Standards and revision of the state standards offer an opportunity to address those disparities through changes in the curriculum and more attention to the unique identifiers and status of the American Indian students in NC.
• LFI 1 Plan for Statewide Assistance for Schools Upon adoption of the statewide ABCs test results the State Board receives information regarding resources needed to provide technical assistance to districts and schools who are struggling. In addition, to serving schools who are Low-Performing or in various levels of improvement based on No Child Left Behind, DPI is required to provide assistance to LEAs who are at the Corrective Action Level of District Improvement.  Judge Manning has also required assistance be provided to high schools with performance composites below 60. Beyond these schools and districts DPI provided specific assistance to Bertie, Richmond, Lexington City, Hertford, and Columbus in 2009-2010.  
• Board Meeting: Dr. Ashley and Dr. Garland reviewed the status of the schools being served last year. Columbus has made such improvements they will not need any this coming school year unless they make specific requests to DPI. The High School performance composites of the lowest schools ranged from 20.6 percent-49.8 percent and with a great deal of hard work the high schools have raised this range to 38.5 percent 58.9 percent. RTT should help raise all schools but the bottom 5 percent will get the greatest attention. Sixty-six elementary schools will be served next year and 16 districts will get assistance. School Improvement Grants from federal funds were awarded earlier this year based on information prior to the availability of the test scores. A issue was raised about Alternative Schools and the Board was advised there will be a study across the state of these schools.

Consent Agenda

• GCS 4 K-12 Arts Education and World Languages Essential Standards and Associated Policy Amendment  APPROVED by consent the Essential Standards for K-12 Arts Education and “World Languages” and are requested to update policy GCS-F-009 to change the wording “Second Languages” to “World Languages” in the policy.  These Standards can be found at: http://www.ncpublicschools.org/acre/standards/phase2/.
• GCS 5 Changes to the 2009-20010 ABCs/AYP Results APPROVED changes to the 2009-2010 ABC’s/AYP Report.
• Board Meeting: The AYP status of the following four schools was changed: two in Randolph, one in Hertford, and one in Mitchell all now having met AYP status, and two schools one in Madison and one in Mecklenburg had changes to ABCs status. An updated chart of changes was provided at the meeting as well as a list of Title I schools in various stages of school improvement based on their test scores. There are approximately 330 traditional and charter schools are on the list of Title I schools in School Improvement.  The list is available upon request.

Board Meeting and Committee Chair Reports

Action and Discussion Agenda

Superintendent’s Report

• Dr. June Atkinson: Dr. Atkinson announced The Federal government has funded the two consortia NC has been involved with for developing assessments based on Common Core Standards. DPI is also waiting to hear on a federal Dropout Grant. Webinars will occur for RTT on September 20/21. Next, regional meetings will be held and by November 22 the LEAs should have provided DPI with their grant request for the RTT funds. The RTT funds should then go out to the districts, based on their approved grant requests. RTT funds are intended to build capacity in the States and school systems to improve educational process for students and improve their success. Other issues of importance include: NC is being recognized for its healthier schools efforts, Superintendent Quarterly meeting will be held on teacher effectiveness (how to measure) and teacher compensation. New superintendent orientation will be held for 17 superintendents in NC.

Chairman’s Remarks

• Dr. Bill Harrison, Chairman: Encourages local boards to use new Superintendent evaluation instruments approved by the SBE today.

New Business

The State Board voted unanimously to elect Bill Harrison Chairman and Wayne McDevitt Vice-Chairman for the next year.

Adjourn

Summary of August State Board of Education Meeting

Wednesday & Thursday, August 4/5, 2010

The State Board of Education met on Wednesday, August 4, 2010 in committees.  They began with the Globally Competitive Students Committee, 21^st Century Professionals Committee, Leadership and Innovation Committee, and they finish with the Business/Finance and Advocacy Committee. On Thursday, they met to vote and hold a Press Conference on ABC’s/AYP results. Access to the SBE Executive Committee Summaries and documents are on the SBE website at the following link:

http://www.ncpublicschools.org/stateboard/meetings/2010/08

Wednesday, August 4, 2010

Globally Competitive Students Committee (10:00 AM)

Action and Discussion Agenda

Action on First Reading

• GCS 1 Approval of Providers for Supplemental Education Services for 2010-2011 APPROVED the providers for supplemental education services as recommended by DPI. Students attending schools in Title I School Improvement in the second year (third year of missing AYP targets) shall receive supplemental educational services provided with Title I funds. There were 99 applicants for providers. There were 75 recommended for approval. Of those 75, there were 48 For-Profits, 13 Non-Profits, 9 LEAs, and 5 other groups. There were 8 providers in District 3 (Wake) and 26 providers for all the Districts. A copy of the list is available upon request from my office.

Committee Meeting: Brief Discussion.

• GCS 2 ABC’s/AYP Report for the 2009-2010 School Year (Presented on Thursday) APPROVED the report. The report is available electronically at http://abcs.ncpublicschools.org.

Board Meeting: In 2009-2010, 88 percent of NC schools who met or exceeded growth in the ABCs model. Nearly 40 percent of NC schools are in the top three performance tiers, while last year that number was only around 25 percent. Including the retest results this year for the first time increased the percentage of students counted as proficient. For example: Algebra II students who became proficient increased by 7.7 percent. Students in Grades 9-12 had a median increase as a result of retesting of 5.8 percent more students achieving proficiency, while elementary and middle school students had a median increase of 8.9 percent. Retest results were not included in the ABC growth calculations. It will take several years of data before the retest results can be included into the growth measures. Statewide fewer schools were classified as low-performing this year. Wake has one school listed as a priority school (Wilburn Elementary), but no low-performing schools. Please see the website, listed below, for more complete details of Wake County Schools. The graduation rate for high school students graduating in four years is 74.2 percent, while the five year rate is 74.7 percent. In reviewing the subgroups statewide, Asians had the highest rate with 85.2 percent, while limited English proficiency students had the lowest with 48.3 percent. Some other numbers included males at 69.6 percent and females at 78.9 percent, while economically disadvantaged were at 66.3 percent and students with disabilities were 57.5 percent. The complete list can be viewed at http://www.ncpublicschools.org/ under the Graduation Rates Highlights.

Discussion

• GCS 3 Discussion of North Carolina’s Proposed New Accountability Model The SBE discussed the new accountability model. The ACRE Assessment and Accountability Committee drafted a proposal for a new accountability model to address both K-8 and high school accountability. Components of the proposed model include student performance, value-added performance for teachers, schools and districts, long-term Longitudinal) growth, graduation rate, Future Ready Core and postsecondary readiness. This item will continue to be a part of the SBE agenda until it is ready for Action.

Committee Discussion: Staff is recommending administering ACT and WorkKeys to all students as part of the new accountability model. The reasons they gave included: Sets the same standard for all students, gives all students options post-graduation, the results are usable and transportable, and avoids the possibility of tracking students. The rationale for using both tests is they have different uses and they use different content. It would cost $4.5 million for every 11^th grader to take both tests. The possible ways to access the funds include legislative outreach, grant funding, and reallocation of existing resources. They also discussed the PSAT test, its cost of $2.69 per test, how many students are taking the test statewide, and could these funds be used to support paying for the other tests. The timeline for implementation of the tests calls for the model to be effective 2013-2014, but the tests could be phased-in. They could also phase-in the five-year graduation rate. They also discussed using Compass and Explorer in earlier grades. Board member Tate requested a complete list of all possible tests to be administered, what grade levels, what is the purpose of the tests, and the costs for the test. One member mentioned the possibility of this requirement being viewed as over testing. Next they discussed the Future-Ready Core policy. The staff is recommending the policy count the number and percent of students who meet the Future-Ready Core mathematics sequence. The rationale for this recommendation includes; it is important to measure courses taken for achievement and graduation purposes, English, Social Studies and Science course taking requirements are part of the graduation rate, and finally the simplicity of the requirement. The final recommendation is based on the need to focus on formative assessments through the school year for the students instead of only using the end of the year assessments. Therefore, the recommendation is to update the Student Accountability polices and make the gateways a local decision and require the final grade to be 25 percent of the overall grade in 6-12 based on EOG and EOC assessments. The reason for this recommendation includes the following: Practitioners support the 25 percent policy, the gateways are not actually functioning as gates in many schools, and by eliminating the gateways this may actually reinforce the focus on performance throughout the year. The next phase of the work will involve simulations. They will begin with weighting and the use of the four quadrant model. The simulation results will be reported sometime the fall/winter of 2010. In addition they will begin getting formal feedback on the Draft Model during the 2010-2011 school year by using focus groups, having regional meetings and a structure survey. The power point presentation is available upon request from my office.

• GCS 4 K-12 Arts Education and World Languages Essential Standards and Associated Policy Amendment  The State Board discussed the Essential Standards for K-12 Arts Education and “World Languages” and discussed updating GCS-F-009 to change the wording “Second Languages” to “World Languages” in the policy.  The Standards are on their final Draft 3.0 after having been through three previous revisions. These will be on the agenda for Action in September.  These Standards can be found at http://www.ncpublicschools.org/acre/standards/phase2/.

Committee Meeting: Board members were positive about the new standards for Arts Education and World Languages. Staff noted that students will be able to take courses based on their previous education, experiences and academic performance and activities to apply to the course being taken in the arts. The new programs will provide much more rigor and individual instruction for the arts. The arts will have four separate courses of study: Dance, Music, Theater Arts, and Visual Arts.  The language standards require much more in depth study and the hope is students will gain more proficiency in the languages. The model is moving from Prerequisite to Proficiency. Examples of the standards for elementary and high school were provided. They are changing the policy to reflect the international reference of “World Languages.”They asked whether the language requirements for high school student should be revised.

21^st Century Professionals Committee (1:30 PM)

Action and Discussion Agenda

Discussion

• TCP 1 Approval of Revisioned Teacher Education and School Executive Preparation Programs Moved to ACTION on First Reading In 2008 the State Board adopted a new program approval process, and as part of the process institutions of higher education were required to revision their teacher education and school executive programs to meet the new standards and to submit their proposals for their new programs. An initial list was approved in December 2009 and the State Board reviewed an updated list.

Committee Meeting: No further discussion.

• TCP 2 State Evaluation Committee Teacher Education Program Approval Recommendations The State Board discussed the recommendations related to Montreat College and Peace College for program approval. They will vote in September.

Committee Meeting: No specific issues.

• TCP 3 Rubric for Pre-Service Superintendent Programs In the revised program approval process it was determined that the seven-year on-site review cycle will be replaced with an annual review of evidence that candidates recommended for licensure meet the NC Superintendent Standards. McRel has developed an assessment instrument, which will be used to assess both the individuals and the superintendent preparation programs and is aligned with the new evaluation instrument for superintendents. A copy of the Rubric can be viewed online in the SBE meeting packet listed at the beginning of this document. Item will be voted on in September.

Committee Meeting: No further discussion.

• TCP 4 Proposed Qualifying Score for Dual Licensure Health and Physical Education Praxis II Test The State Board discussed the requirements for dual licensure in health and physical education. The recommendation is in response to a provision approved by the Board to allow the Licensure Section to issue a health and physical education license to a physical education teacher who meets certain requirements (as determined by the Board). The licensure provision expires on June 30, 2012. The qualifying scale score of 149 on the Praxis Health and Physical Education: Content Knowledge is recommended. This will be presented for Action in September and will become effective September 2012 upon approval.

Committee Meeting: This will be back for a vote in September.

• TCP 5 Superintendent Licensure-Policy Language Change and Clarification REMOVED from the Agenda The State Board did not review Policy TCP-A-001 to clarify requirements to obtain a Superintendent’s license, and the requirements to serve as a Superintendent without having direct experience or certification as an educator. The revised policy is posted online and is available upon request from my office.

Leadership for Innovation Committee (2:30 PM)

Action and Discussion Agenda

Action

• LFI 1 Recommendations for Preliminary Approval of 2010 Charter School Applications APPROVED Union Independent School, for a preliminary charter. The State Board conducted interviews in July, with seven applicants who were chosen as finalists, for the one remaining charter school slot available. These were Bear Grass Charter School, Leadership Learning Academy, Piedmont IT Academy, Richard Milburn Academy (Wake), Spruce Pine Montessori, Union Independent School, and Water’s Edge Village Academy.

Board Meeting: The Board voted to approve Union. Bear Grass was the other charter school that received votes for approval, but did not have enough votes.

Business/Finance and Advocacy Committee Meeting (3:10 PM)

Action and Discussion Agenda

Action on First Reading

• TCS 1 Approval of Grants: APPROVED GRANTS
  • 21^st Century Community Learning Center Grants There are five grant recipients listed in Wake. They include: About Face II, CONCERT, J.T. Locke Resource Center, Inc., Kreepers and Krawlers Learning Center, and O.A.S.I.S Foundation, Inc.
  • Approval of Carl D. Perkins College Tech Prep Grant There are seven Tier I schools/consortia that were not funded previously and who are approved for funding in 2010-2013. In addition, there are 26 schools/consortia in Tier II recommended for funding in 2010-2013, who were funded in the past eight years. WCPSS is not included in any of these grants.
  • K-2 Reading Diagnostic Assessment Funds for Halifax County and Current Reading First Schools Transferring to Pilot The State Board approved the allocation of the Reading First funds to be transferred to Halifax and all the Reading First Schools who will become part of the reading pilot. There are seven elementary schools in Halifax that are part of the reading diagnostic pilot this year, using technology and assessment to track student progress. Two other elementary schools were Reading First Schools in Halifax and will become part of the reading pilot in 2010-2011. USED has given permission to use the Reading First funds to purchase the K-2 assessment system with technology that exists in the pilot schools and become part of the pilot. The funds may be used to purchase licenses, platforms, training and benchmarking kits. Every Reading First School was contacted and given the chance to be part of the pilot. The costs to extend the program in the Reading First Schools, who have decided to make the transition, including Halifax are $975,000.

Committee Meeting: The Board received an updated list of 21^st Century Learning Centers that were funded in 2009-2010 and not recommended for funding in 2010-2011. There were no centers listed for Wake that were funded last year and not funded this year.

• TCS 2 Legislation Requiring Immediate State Board Attention APPROVED Required Actions related to the State Budget and Legislation signed into law this year. The staff reviewed Senate Bill 897, Appropriations Act of 2010, including the special provisions and to act on these so funds may be redirected or used. SBE will also act to adopt rules for implementation of furloughs for public schools, and act to appoint a task force of members of DPI to create the Comprehensive Arts Education Development Plan for public schools. They reviewed the required Studies as outlined in House Bill 900 and the budget changes as authorized by the General Assembly, and the impact of those adjustments. Finally they will discuss a listing of non-budget bills ratified during the session that impact public schools. DPI is presenting clarification and rules for the Furlough legislation enacted in the State Budget. Recommendations are as follows: #1: Define Salary-Four specifications including the salary from all  funding sources and all positions worked shall be combined in determining annual salary, #2: Minimum Furlough-Not less than half a day, #3 Days Excluded from the Furlough: No employees can be furloughed on an instructional day in traditional calendar, #4 Definition of Bonus Pay-Defines as compensation over and above the amount of pay as a base salary or hourly rate of pay and is not based on performing additional work (if an administrator is compensated in the from other than salary, this shall not be considered bonus unless it is contingent on a performance measure, #4 Reporting Requirements-LEAs shall report within 10 days of local board approval of the furlough and no later than September 10, 2010.

Committee Meeting: The Board got into a lengthy debate over the decision made on which schools/LEAs to fund with the Child and Family Support Teams. The funding was cut 21.4 percent and had provided funding for a social worker and a school nurse in 100 schools. Of the remaining $9.2 million the SBE will allocate the reduction by eliminating funding to those schools it deems to be implementing the program ineffectively. Staff is recommending the elimination of one Child and Family Support Team from each of the following 21 LEAs. The list of LEAs being reduced is available upon request from my office, but does not include Wake. The Board also discussed the NCVPS funding formula and that they are projecting 46,000 students for 2010-2011 with revenues estimated at $20 million that will come from reducing the funding to the LEAs. They can only take 15 percent or $3 million to administer the program and that funding may not be sufficient. Many of the LEAs and specifically the Superintendent’s are concerned about the loss of their funding for NCVPS and using a projected number for funding the program rather than an actual number. The law restricted NCVPS course and disallowed those being taken in Physical Education. Staff presented information on 132 students who took courses in Healthful Living in the Spring of 2010 and told the Board they have notified those schools with students enrolled in these course for the Fall that NCVPS can no longer provide these courses. Staff reviewed over 16 pages of summarized legislative information for the board members. Several other key areas discussed including the Type I transfer of the Schools for the Deaf and Blind to DPI. This will occur over the next few weeks. This will add over 590 employees to the DPI workforce because of the teachers, administrators etc… involved in managing these schools as well as the fact that they must hire a Superintendent by October 1, 2010. Mr. Price was asked several times if this meant the SBE was the Board of these schools and that DPI will soon be their Central Office. I don’t believe the question was answered, but I do believe the answer is yes.  One of the last issues discussed was the furlough provision and the guidelines to be adopted by the SBE for implementation of the furloughs. According to staff Winston-Salem Forsyth is the only school system to submit a request to use furlough and that the furlough will be needed to cover $1.8 million of the discretionary reduction for 2010-2011. There are three LEAs to report, but Wake was not one of them. There was much discussion about the furlough and how the base pay guidelines were decided and were they fair to teachers. The Board also reviewed whether the possible 1 percent additional cut in January would allow LEAs to use the furloughs since they are applicable until June 30, 2011. Mr. Price was not sure about that flexibility, but had gotten word as many did about the US Senate moving to pass the funding ($343 million for NC) a portion of what is needed by NC and will not require the 1 percent cut to public schools in January. After a lengthy discussion about the language related to salaries, DPI provided an updated document containing the emergency rules governing furloughs of employees of local boards of education with minor changes. A copy of this document is available upon request from my office.  The Board was also updated on the Comprehensive Arts Education Plan task force, which they are to appoint. The list includes several people from Wake County: Barbara Greer (Discipline Representative-retired), Catherine Demcio (A+ Schools Teacher), Martin Lancaster (Former President of Community Colleges, and Genevieve Farmer (Wake Schools-retired). There are 24 members on the Task Force. A complete list is available upon request from my office.

• TCS 3 Requests for Repayment Waivers of the National Board Certification Fee The appeals of 24 teachers who failed to complete the process were considered by the Appeals Panel and the Panel’s recommendations will be presented to the State Board for approval. One individual of the 24 was recommended for a waiver of the $2,500 and all other waiver requests are recommended for denial. Closed Session item.

Discussion

• TCS 4 Membership for the State Advisory Council on Indian Education The State Board is requested to replace and approve an individual whose term, on the Advisory Council on Indian Education, expired in June 2010. This person, if approved shall serve for two years. The three current members of the Council are also recommended to serve a second term. Angela Lynch is the new member who is replacing an outgoing member. The three recommended for reappointment include; Audrey Hunt, Velina Ebert, and Teresa Jones.

Committee Discussion: No Further discussion.

Update on Contracts

Contracts over $25,000 – 27 contracts totaling more than $7 million.

Contracts under $25,000 – 23 contracts totaling more than $270,000.

New Business

• Update on Timeline for 2011-13 Biennial Budget
• Intern Update-Presentation of Projects/Reports (presented at lunch)
  • The Evolution and use of Growth Models
  • An Introduction to Through-Course Assessment
  • The Effectiveness of State Assistance in Low-Performing High Schools
  • Evaluation Programs for North Carolina’s Gifted Children

Thursday, August 5, 2010

State Board of Education Meeting, (9:00 AM) Dr. William Harrison, Chairman

Call to Order

Pledge of Allegiance: Ms. Shirley Harris

Approval of Minutes

Special Recognition

• Ms. Jennifer Facciolini, Sampson County Schools, 2011 NC AT&T Teacher of the Year
• Ms. Jan King, Henderson County Schools, NC Wachovia Principal of the Year

Key Initiatives Reports and Discussion

• ACRE Update- Dr. Angela Quick informed members that the resource instructional toolkits for teachers are being completed. Social Studies Revision 2.0 will be reviewed. The writing system implemented by the State is moving forward with focus on Grades 4 & 7; on-demand and content-specific writing prompts throughout the year. Audits are being conducted through the web.
• CEDARS Update: Mr. Adam Levinson told the SBE that the unique ID system is fully operational and will cover the entire school year. Work is underway with the employment security system to link student UID system with their follow-up of NC employees.

Information Agenda

Globally Competitive Students

• GCS 5 Field Testing and Special Studies for the 2010-2011 School Year DELAYED until September The State Board received information on the proposed field tests for 2010-2011. They include the following: NCEXTEND 2 EOGs-Math, Reading Science, NCEXTEND 2 EOCs-Math, English II, Biology, EOGs-Science (Grades 5 & 8), Enhanced Assessment Grant-Grade 7-Math, Algebra I,  American Diploma-Algebra II, EOCs-English II, Biology, US History, Civics & Economics, and Lexile Linking Study EOCs-Physical Science, English I, Algebra I, II, Civics & Econ., US History, Biology, LEP-Listening, Reading, Writing, NAEP/TIMSS Linking Study-Math, Science (Grades: 4 and 8).
• GCS 6 Online Course as a Graduation Requirement REMOVED from the Agenda The State Board will hear information on a plan to require all entering ninth grade students in 2010-2011 to take a virtual on-line course to meet graduation requirements. North Carolina is the State with the second largest enrollment (33,699) in online courses, but does not have a policy requiring an online learning requirement.

Board Meeting and Committee Chair Reports

Action and Discussion Agenda

Superintendent’s Report

• Dr. June Atkinson: Dr. Atkinson reported on NC Thomasville Primary School for their Gold Award earned through the healthier US School Challenge. The Superintendents held their quarterly meeting and reviewed NC FALCON, NC Virtual schools, Digital textbooks, State Budget and legislation and DPI initiative underway. A grant proposal was submitted to USED in collaboration with NC Communities in Schools. The title is “Back on Track, PR.” The grant is for $12.4 million over five years and provides graduation coaches for eight high schools.  DPI will have another reduction in force and the legislation requires 30 positions, 10 of which must be state-paid and all state-paid positions must be from Technology Services.

Chairman’s Remarks

• Dr. Bill Harrison, Chairman noted that The Race to the Top team is heading to Washington on Tuesday, August 10, 2010 to be interviewed. It is the same team that went in Round 1.

New Business

• Approval of the 2011 SBE Meeting Schedule

Adjourn